The Raven Group

Question:


fot
Student
College - Junior

In "The Raven", why does Poe employ the raven instead of another bird or animal?

(Think of associations connected with the raven such as colour).

What are the symbolism of the raven?

 

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Posted by fot on Monday April 6, 2009 at 10:13 AM and tagged with animals, raven, symbols, the raven.

Answers:

  1. herappleness
    herappleness Teacher
    Graduate School

    eNotes Editor

    Being that it is a gothic poem, you get all the element of the supernatural combined together to create a dark atmosphere.

    As stated in a similar question, the Raven symbolizes "Mournful and Never-Ending remembrance" (according to Silverman quoting Poe)- The characteristics of this bird are that it is black, and can repeat words. The Raven has also a notorious reputation for being a bird of bad omens.

    The fact hat the bird has a limited capacity for repetition compared to , say, a parrot, enables the idea of it choosing to repeat the ONE word that follows the protagonist to insanity and despair.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/raven

    Rate answer:

    Posted by herappleness on Monday April 6, 2009 at 11:22 AM