The Raven Essay

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Literary Analysis Essay Edgar Allen Poe’s poem, “The Raven,” shows commonly known characteristics that are repeated throughout the Dark Romanticism era. Dark Romanticism is known for its very dark view of the world, insanity, murder, death, evil, supernatural events, sins, etc. “The Raven” is about a man who is visited by a raven one December night. In the poem we learn that the narrator is trying to get over his lost love, Lenore. He thinks the raven might be Lenore. The man asks the raven a series of questions that are answered by “nevermore.” He then thinks the raven will be a sign of unfortunate luck. This poem, “The Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe, shows many techniques in which characteristics of Dark Romanticism are shown, like insanity, unexpected and crazy events, very dark scenes, and how the tone of the story is. One of the main characteristics shown that represents Dark Romanticism, is insanity. Insanity is shown because the main character shows many obvious examples. The first one is that he lives alone. Living alone can cause many problems, like hallucinations, paranoia, and anxiety. The narrator seems to be a bit crazy and it’s probably because he’s lonely and starts to imagine different things. It is shown when the man calls out “Lenore!” when he hears the tapping on his chamber door. “From my books surcease of sorrow - sorrow for the lost Lenore - For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore –“ This quote shows that Lenore is not with him anymore, so there would be no point to call out her name if he knew she was not there. But the more insane thing is that he hears “Lenore!” whispered back to him. Some people may believe that the man isn’t actually hearing the voice, but hallucinating. The poem shows insanity because the man also starts talking to the raven. He goes on with an intense conversation with the bird even though he knows
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