Why should you read Edgar Allan Poe?

The prisoner strapped under a descending pendulum blade. A raven who refuses to leave the narrator's chamber. A beating heart buried under the floorboards. Poe's macabre and innovative stories of gothic horror have left a timeless mark on literature. But just what is it that makes Edgar Allan Poe one of the greatest American authors? Scott Peeples investigates.

Answer the following questions:

1. What elements distinguish Poe's gothic horror stories?

2. Poe is often credited with inventing the modern detective story. What characteristics of detective fiction can we trace back to Poe?

3. What are some factors that contributed to Poe's difficult life?

Record a 1 minute video recommending this pill.