Post: Choose Two Terms From The Elements Of Fiction Lecture
Post 1choose Two Terms From The Elements Of Fiction Lecture And Apply
Post 1: Choose two terms from the Elements of Fiction lecture and apply them to "The Fall of the House of Usher." You learned in the Authors lecture that Poe is considered to be "the father of the modern-day short story." Did you find his story engaging? Why do you think his works remain popular more than 150 years later? Be sure to quote, cite, and reference from the text(s) using appropriate APA format. Your post must be at least 250 words. Post3: According to the biography in your textbook, Paul Laurence Dunbar wanted "to interpret my own people through song and story, and prove to the many that we are more human than African." The same argument could be made that Chopin and Gilman, both female, were attempting to prove that they were more human than woman.
From the assigned readings, choose works from at least two of the authors and explain how the writer attempts to illustrate this idea. Is he/she successful? Be sure to quote, cite, and reference from the text(s) using appropriate APA format. Your post must be at least 250 words.
Paper For Above instruction
The short story "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe exemplifies several elements of fiction, such as symbolism and atmosphere, which contribute to its enduring appeal and psychological depth. Analyzing these elements reveals why Poe remains a pivotal figure in American literature and why his stories continue to captivate readers over a century later.
Symbolism, a core element of Poe's narrative technique, is vividly illustrated through the battlemented house itself. The Usher mansion symbolizes the deteriorating mental and physical state of its inhabitants, particularly Roderick and Madeline Usher. The crumbling structure reflects the decay of the Usher family line and serves as a tangible manifestation of Gothic tropes concerning family curses and madness (Poe, 1839). The fissure that appears in the house during the storm symbolizes the inevitable collapse of both the estate and the family, emphasizing the story’s themes of inevitable decay and doom. The use of this symbol elevates the story from mere horror to an exploration of psychological and existential fears, contributing to its lasting resonance.
Atmosphere, another vital element, creates a tone of gloom and suspense that permeates the narrative. Poe's masterful use of vivid, detailed descriptions of the gloomy landscape, the oppressive mansion, and the ominous storm establish an atmosphere that immerses the reader in a world of dread and suspense (Poe, 1839). This mood heightens the emotional impact of the story, making it more engaging and visceral. Poe's careful orchestration of setting effectively draws readers into a universe where the boundaries between reality and hallucination blur, compelling the audience to explore the depths of human fear and madness.
Edgar Allan Poe’s mastery of symbolism and atmosphere not only enhances the gothic quality of "The Fall of the House of Usher" but also explains why his works remain compelling more than 150 years later. His ability to craft dense layers of meaning through symbolic imagery and to evoke immersive moods allows each reader to interpret his stories in a personal way, leading to their enduring popularity and influence in literature.
The engagement with Poe’s stories also stems from his pioneering reputation as the father of the modern short story. Poe’s innovative narrative structures and emphasis on psychological depth shifted the literary landscape, laying groundwork for modern horror and psychological fiction (Berkove, 2001). His works remain relevant because they explore universal themes — death, decay, madness — in ways that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, reflecting the enduring power of his artistry.
References
Berkove, L. (2001). Edgar Allan Poe's Tales of Mystery and Imagination. Dover Publications.
Poe, E. A. (1839). The Fall of the House of Usher. Burton's Gentleman’s Magazine.