Edgar Allan Poe 1809-1849

His Family and Tragic Life Born in Boston The son of traveling actors Tragic and unhappy life

Tragic and Unhappy Life Mother died, father deserted him at the age of two adopted by Mr. and Mrs. John Allan constant disagreements with his step-father

. . .continued Studied briefly at the University of Virginia Drinking and gambling difficulties kept him from continuing at UVA

. . .continued Received an appointment to West Point, but he provoked his own dismissal Caused a final separation between Poe and his step-father

. . .continued In 1836 married his 14 year old cousin, Virginia Last 12 years of life worked as a journalist, editor, and creative writer

. . . continued Lived in poverty stricken conditions In 1846 wife died after a long illness

. . . continued Died in Baltimore after he was found in a drunken stupor Died a poor man

Poe’s Work Known for: Tales of mystery and terror stories Introducing the modern detective story

Just a Few Titles Poems: Short Stories The Tell-Tale Heart The Raven The Cask of Amontillado The Pit and The Pendulum Poems: The Raven Annabel Lee To Helen Lenore The Bells

Literary terms Mood – The feelings brought up in the reader Tone – The attitude a writer takes toward a subject

Suspense Story Characteristics Anticipation for the climax or ending Use setting and word choice to create a disturbing mood or atmosphere Much of a scary story's suspense is conveyed through the characters' thoughts, words, actions, and reactions to events and other characters Moments are slowed down Use of sensory details

“The Cask of Amontillado” Why did Montresor seek revenge on Fortunato? How did Montresor know that the house would be empty? Consider the symbolic implications of the descent into the wine cellar. Where and when is the story set? Give reasons for your answer. Why does Montresor make sure Fortunato has drunk a lot of wine? What is Luchresi’s role in the story? What preparations had Montresor made for his revenge? Why does Montresor appear concerned about Fortunato’s health? Describe Fortunato’s character. Can you point to any evidence of humor in the story?

Create a Book Cover- 2nd block Requirements: Front: title, author, picture, color Back: Paragraph summary of story with heading Inside: 1 paragraph biography of Poe’s life with heading

Create a Book Cover- 4th block Requirements: Front: title, author, picture, color Back: Summary of story (2 paragraphs) with heading Inside: Brief biography of Poe’s life (2 paragraphs) with heading