Topics for Further Study
Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American writer who lived during the same era as Edgar Allan Poe, authored the short story collection Twice-Told Tales. This collection is often noted for its Gothic horror elements, akin to those found in Poe's short stories. Read at least one of Hawthorne's stories from this collection to compare it with "The Masque of the Red Death." Discuss both the similarities and the differences.
Analyze Poe's "The Masque of the Red Death" in terms of its depiction of a societal or collective response to illness and plague. What attitude do Prospero's privileged guests exhibit towards those outside the castle who are more susceptible to and suffering from the Red Death? How can this story serve as a parable, or a moral tale, for understanding contemporary societal reactions to the AIDS epidemic and those living with HIV?
Poe's "The Masque of the Red Death" explores human and societal reactions to the inevitability of death. How do Prospero and his guests attempt to confront, or avoid confronting, their own impending deaths? Investigate the psychology of death to gain insights into how people today cope with the deaths of others and their own mortality.
During Poe's lifetime, tuberculosis was a prevalent disease, most notably characterized by the symptom of coughing up blood. Given that three significant women in Poe's life (his mother, stepmother, and wife) succumbed to tuberculosis, it is plausible that the "Red Death" in his story was influenced by his personal experiences with the disease. Research the history of tuberculosis in the nineteenth century and its status today.
After his death, Poe significantly influenced French poet Baudelaire and Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky. Examine the works of one of these writers. How is Poe's influence evident in their writing?
The Black Plague, also known as the Bubonic Plague, was one of the most devastating pandemics in human history. Investigate the Black Plague, focusing on how societies responded to the crisis, the "cures" that were attempted, and its historical impact.
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.
Already a member? Log in here.