
The Monkey that Would not Kill
This novel explores the concept of a monkey who refuses to kill, despite being raised in an environment where violence and aggression are encouraged. The story delves into the psychological and philosophical implications of this behavior, raising questions about the nature of morality and the role of instinct versus reason in shaping human (and animal) behavior.
By Henry Drummond · First published 1897 · Genre: Adventure, Humor, Children's Literature · 13 chapters · 11,413 words
First lines
There is no such thing as an immortal monkey, but this monkey was as near it as possible. Talk of a cat's nine lives -- this monkey had ninety! A monkey's business in the world is usually to make everybody merry, but the special mission of this one, I fear, was to make everybody as angry as ever they could be. In wrath-producing power, in fact, this monkey positively shone.
What this Textopian page supports
The Monkey that Would not Kill is listed on Textopian as a short story by Henry Drummond, dated 1897 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Henry Drummond
- Date: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Adventure, Humor, Children's Literature, Animal Fiction, Fantasy
- Length: 11,413 words
- Structure: 13 chapters, 88 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Monkey that Would not Kill by Henry Drummond
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Monkey that Would not Kill?
- How does this short story by Henry Drummond fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Adventure first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
Genres
- Adventure — The narrative follows the monkey's numerous escapades and adventures, highlighting its resilience and the various challenges it faces.
- Humor — The story is filled with comedic elements, particularly in the monkey's mischievous behavior and the absurd situations it creates.
- Children's Literature — The playful tone and the focus on a mischievous animal protagonist make it suitable for a younger audience.
- Animal Fiction — The central character is an animal, and the plot revolves around its interactions with humans and its environment.
Tags
Philosophy · Ethics · Morality · Evolution · Biology · Psychology · Behaviorism · Animal Studies · Sociology · Anthropology · Science vs. Faith · Christianity
Contents
More by Henry Drummond