The Fall of the House of Usher1
Regarded as his "most famous piece of fiction," "The Fall of the House of Usher" inspires the usual horror found in most works by Poe. Every aspect expected from a Poe piece is found within this story. There is the first person narrative, the division of personality, and Gothic style; which all characterize classic Poe. Although some critics feel that the tale is "difficult to read" and "an overdone and vulgar fantasy;" most recognize it as the masterpiece it is. From the gloomy beginning to the shocking conclusion, "The Fall of the House of Usher" implements every attribute needed to create a model narration. As in most Poe stories, the unnamed narrator experiences a horrific sight. This harrowing incident is the realization by himself and Roderick Usher that they have in fact buried Madeline Usher alive. The thought of this atrocity causes the narrator to flee from the house indefinitely. He does not know at the time that the house will subsequently cave in after his departure. Almost every
There is a division of personality found in "The Fall of the House of Usher," which also presents itself in "William Wilson." In the tale being discussed, Roderick and Madeline Usher are twins whose health is slowly diminishing. While Madeline seems to have accepted her fate, it looks as if Roderick does not quite understand his recent transformation. It is almost as if all the worry and frustration felt by both is channeled through Roderick. While he is slowly losing his mind, Madeline becomes increasingly sedate. The narrator mentions that the master of the house has indeed changed a great deal. Apparently, some "curse" has overcome him and his sister causing their recent decline in spirits, sanity, and health. Throughout the story, both are equally affected by the other's actions. This element is found in many Poe tales, although usually it involves a dual nature within a single character. tale written by Poe is written in this fashion. Although most stories employ no real plot or charact
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Approximate Word count = 680
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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