Curse Unleashed- The Fateful Transformation of Herbert in ‘The Monkey’s Paw’
What happens to Herbert in “The Monkey’s Paw” is a tragic and chilling tale of supernatural consequences. This short story, written by W. W. Jacobs, explores the perils of greed and the unforeseen repercussions of one’s actions. The story revolves around a mysterious hand, known as the Monkey’s Paw, which grants three wishes to its owner. However, as Herbert discovers, the wishes come with a high price, leading to a series of tragic events that ultimately result in his demise.
In the beginning, Herbert, a working-class man, finds the Monkey’s Paw while on a trip to the seaside with his father. Intrigued by the paw’s mysterious origins, Herbert’s father wishes for money, hoping to improve their financial situation. The paw grants the wish, and they return home with a substantial sum of money. However, this newfound wealth brings with it a sense of unease and foreboding.
As the story progresses, Herbert becomes increasingly obsessed with the paw and its power. He wishes for his mother’s life back after she dies, hoping to reverse the tragic event. The paw grants his wish, but at a terrible cost. His mother returns, but she is a zombie-like creature, driven by a relentless desire for more money. This newfound obsession with wealth leads to further tragedy, as Herbert’s family is consumed by greed and despair.
The third and final wish is made by Herbert himself, who wishes for the paw to be destroyed. The paw is thrown into the fire, but it manages to escape, leaving Herbert and his family in a state of terror. The paw then reappears in the home, and Herbert’s final act is to kill himself, hoping to put an end to the curse once and for all.
What happens to Herbert in “The Monkey’s Paw” serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of greed and the unforeseen consequences of one’s actions. The story highlights the importance of humility and the moral lesson that sometimes, the things we desire the most can lead to our downfall. The tragic fate of Herbert serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be wary of the supernatural and the potential dangers that come with it.
