What theme from traditional stories is central to “The Monkey’s Paw”? (Part A)

Question

The danger of the unknown as well as the known
The danger of temptation and greed
The challenge of knowing good from evil
The challenge facing the truth as well as mystery

(Part B)
Which quote from the short story best illustrates the answer to part A?

He began to talk, the little family circle regarding with rather interest this visitor from distant parts, as he squared his broad shoulders Ik the chair and spoke of wild scene and doughty deeds; of wars and plagues and strange peoples.

“Well, it’s just a bit of what might call magic, perhaps,” said the sergeant-major off-handedly

“The first man had his three wishes. Yes.” Was the reply; “I don’t know what the first two were, but the third was for death. That’s how I got the paw.”

“If the tale about the monkeys paw is not more truthful than those he has been telling us,” said Herbert, as the door closed behind their guest, just in time for him to catch the last train, “we shan’t make much out of it.”

Answer 1

Part A: The theme from traditional stories that is central to “The Monkey’s Paw” is The danger of temptation and greed. This theme is illustrated through the characters' desires and the consequences that arise from their wishes.

Part B: The quote that best illustrates the answer to part A is: “The first man had his three wishes. Yes.” Was the reply; “I don’t know what the first two were, but the third was for death. That’s how I got the paw.” This quote highlights the dangerous consequences stemming from the first man's wishes, emphasizing the theme of temptation and greed leading to dire outcomes.