The Theme Of Greed In The Monkey's Paw

The belief that fate rules people’s lives implies that those who interfere with it are struck with misfortune. In the short story, “The Monkey’s Paw” the author uses this idea in telling the story of the White family. Upon gaining possession of the monkey’s paw, the family is tempted by its powers, but later learns the risks of using it. This talisman affects the lives of the Whites in an impactful way. The monkey’s paw is a symbol of desire, greed, and trouble, which eventually leads to tragedy.

Starting off, the first use of the monkey's paw symbolizes greed. The talisman gives anyone who possesses it three wishes. Mr. White uses his first wish to gain two-hundred pounds, so that he can pay off his house. This wish is suggested to him by Herbert White, his son. On page 95 of the story, Herbert states, “Why, we’re going to be rich, and famous, and happy. Wish to be an emperor, Father, to begin with: then you can’t be bossed around.” This quote from the story proves the greed behind the use of the first wish. Shortly after, the wish is granted, but is delivered as compensation for Herbert White’s death. The idea of greed in the first wish leads to tragedy in the White family’s lives.

The death of her son, Herbert White, from the events of the first wish, causes Mrs. White to desperately want him back. Thus, the monkey’s paw is used a second time, despite Mr. White’s reluctance to do so. On page 99, Mrs. White cries, “No, we’ll have one more. Go down and get it quickly, and wish our boy alive again.” This quote from the story shows Mrs. White’s desire to get her son back. It implies that she is so desperate to do this that she could care less about the risks involved with using the monkey’s paw. The idea of desire in the second wish helps lead to tragedy in the lives of the White