Foreshadowing in Literature

What is Foreshadowing?

The use in a literary work of clues that suggest events that have yet to occur

Creates suspense Keeps reader interested in what will happen nextUse hints at future events to predict outcomes

Concrete Foreshadowing

Objects, people, colors, places, or events used to suggest events that have yet to occur

Usually something characters physically see

Abstract Foreshadowing

Themes, words, sounds, and other intangible clues

Author mentions a character’s thoughtCharacter hears a noise

Prominent Foreshadowing

Telling the reader what will happenMight be used in a prologue, preface, or throughout a work

Example: “I'd never given much thought to how I would die — though I'd had reason enough in the last few months — but even if I had, I would not have imagined it like this.”

The Monkey’s Paw by W.W. Jacobs

About the author:1863-1943Grew up listening to tales of adventure from sailors near his dockside homeIn adulthood, wrote stories filled with strange and fantastic events“The Monkey’s Paw”

FateHow does fate shape the events that occur?What does “The Monkey’s Paw” say about the role of fate in people’s lives?