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Foreshadowing in Literature
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?
