Student Question

In the poem "Annabel Lee," how do characters face death?

Quick answer:

In "Annabel Lee," characters face death through the narrator's belief that angels, envious of his love, caused Annabel's death. Despite her death, the narrator copes by asserting that their souls remain forever united, impervious to separation by angels or demons. He finds solace in nature, seeing reminders of Annabel in the moon and stars, which comfort him as symbols of her eternal presence and love.

PDF

Expert Answers

| Certified Educator

Cite

In this poem, the narrator argues that the "seraphs" (angels) in heaven are so envious of the love he and Annabel shared that they send a chill wind to kill her. She dies, and the speaker mourns, but he copes with death by insisting that the bond he shares with Annabel can never be broken. He states that nothing, neither angels nor demons, can ever

dissever my soul from the soul
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee ...

The souls of the two lovers are forever united. The seraphs have lost out in their attempt to spoil the love between the two.

Further, the speaker copes by seeing reminders of Annabel in nature, especially at night. The moonbeams comfort him as reminders of her. When the stars shine in heaven, they seem as if they are her eyes shining down on him. The sound of sea at night also acts as a memory of her, bringing solace.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access

Already a member? Log in here.

Approved by eNotes Editorial