What does the sergeant-major think of the monkey’s paw? This question often arises in discussions about W. W. Jacobs’ classic short story, “The Monkey’s Paw.” The story revolves around a mysterious talisman that grants its owner three wishes, but with dire consequences. The sergeant-major, a central character in the narrative, plays a crucial role in shaping the story’s outcome and, consequently, his opinion about the monkey’s paw.
The sergeant-major is a seasoned soldier who has witnessed the horrors of war. He is initially skeptical of the monkey’s paw’s power, dismissing it as a mere trinket with no real significance. However, as the story progresses, his perspective changes dramatically. The monkey’s paw, with its three wishes, becomes a catalyst for a series of tragic events that deeply affect the sergeant-major and his family.
At the beginning of the story, the sergeant-major’s skepticism is evident. He dismisses the monkey’s paw as a “nonsense” and a “joke,” questioning its authenticity. This skepticism is understandable, considering the supernatural nature of the talisman. However, as the story unfolds, the sergeant-major’s attitude shifts. He begins to see the monkey’s paw as a source of power that can bring about both good and evil.
When the sergeant-major’s son, Herbert, wishes for his mother’s recovery from a severe illness, the monkey’s paw seems to work its magic. However, the subsequent wishes for money and a promotion for the sergeant-major’s son lead to a series of disasters, culminating in the tragic death of Herbert. The sergeant-major’s opinion of the monkey’s paw changes drastically after this event. He becomes haunted by the knowledge that his son’s death was a direct result of the talisman’s power.
As the story progresses, the sergeant-major’s remorse and guilt are palpable. He regrets ever having touched the monkey’s paw and wishes that he had never granted any wishes. This change in opinion reflects the story’s central theme of the consequences of wishful thinking and the dangers of seeking shortcuts to happiness. The sergeant-major’s realization that the monkey’s paw is a curse rather than a blessing serves as a powerful warning against the pursuit of desires at any cost.
In conclusion, the sergeant-major’s opinion of the monkey’s paw evolves throughout “The Monkey’s Paw.” Initially skeptical, he eventually comes to view the talisman as a source of immense power and tragedy. The story’s resolution leaves the sergeant-major with a profound sense of loss and regret, highlighting the story’s cautionary message about the perils of wishful thinking. What does the sergeant-major think of the monkey’s paw? He views it as a curse that led to the destruction of his family, a chilling reminder of the consequences that come with the pursuit of desires.
