Edgar Allan Poe, "The Black Cat" (1843)
About the author
|
Context
|
Literary Movement
|
Genre
|
Themes/Social Issues
Literary Devices
Possible Essay Topics
- How does the evolution of the setting (location) reflect the narrator's mental state?
- Is the narrator mentally ill? If so, what would be your diagnosis? How do the symptoms manifest in the story?
- Explore the symbolism of the black cat(s) in the story.
- How does Poe let the reader know that the narrator might be unreliable/not to be trusted? How does it affect the theme/message of the story?
- Consider Edgar Allan Poe's involvement in the temperance movement. How does "The Black Cat" act as a cautionary tale against the ills of alcoholism?
Additional Reading
For Poe, in the perfect text, every word contributes to the effect the author wants to have on the reader. Therefore, each word is chosen to fit with a specific tone. Also, it should be possible to read any poem or short story in one sitting.