Question

Mobility is one of the most important characteristics of a play. The ‘Monkey’s Paw’ amply depicts this feature. Quoting examples from the play, explain movement of the story, characters, scene and locations.

Answer 1

Mobility in The Monkey’s Paw

The play keeps the audience engaged through the changing action, the movement of characters, and shifts in time, atmosphere and setting.

1. Movement of the story: The plot advances quickly from the sergeant’s arrival and the first wish, to the news of Herbert’s death and the payment of two hundred pounds. Later, Mrs. White uses the second wish to bring Herbert back, and Mr. White uses the final wish when the knocking is heard at the door. Each event leads directly to the next and heightens the suspense.
2. Movement of characters: The stage directions show characters continually moving and reacting. Mr. White snatches the paw from the fire; the sergeant tries to stop him. Herbert moves to the piano and plays while Mr. White makes his first wish. In the final scene, Mrs. White rushes to the door while Mr. White searches for the paw and then makes his last wish.
3. Movement between scenes: The three scenes show distinct stages in the story. Scene I takes place on a windy evening, Scene II on a bright morning, and Scene III at night. The shifts in lighting, time and mood from comfort and curiosity to grief and terror move the drama forward.
4. Movement through locations: Most of the action happens in the Whites’ living room, but other places shape the events. Herbert walks home from the electrical works, where the fatal accident occurs. The cemetery, visible from the window, becomes central to Mrs. White’s grief. The road outside and the street door become the focus of the tense final scene as the knocking grows louder.