“The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe: A Critique

Introduction: “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

“The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe first appeared in August 1843 within the pages of The Saturday Evening Post. Later collected in “Tales by Edgar Allan Poe” (1845), the story exemplifies Poe’s signature dark romanticism, weaving a chilling exploration of guilt, madness, and the supernatural with an unnamed narrator’s descent into cruelty and paranoia.

Main Events in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

1. The narrator, who is an animal lover, marries his wife and adopts several cats.
2. He becomes an alcoholic and becomes increasingly abusive to his wife and pets, except for one black cat named Pluto.
3. One night, while drunk, he gouges out Pluto’s eye and later hangs him from a tree, killing him.
4. Another black cat, very similar to Pluto, appears at the narrator’s house and he adopts it as well.
5. The cat becomes a constant presence in the narrator’s life and eventually starts to remind him of Pluto, making him increasingly uneasy.
6. The narrator becomes convinced that the cat is haunting him and tries to get rid of it, but it always returns.
7. One night, in a fit of rage, the narrator tries to kill the cat with an axe, but accidentally kills his wife instead.
8. The narrator conceals the body by walling it up in the basement and tries to convince the police that his wife is not missing.
9. When the police investigate, they discover the body and the cat sitting on top of it, revealing the narrator’s guilt.
10. The narrator is sentenced to death and reflects on his descent into madness and the supernatural nature of the cat.

Literary Devices in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

Literary Device	Definition	Explanation and Example from “The Black Cat”
Allusion	Indirect reference to a person, place, event, or text.	References to Pluto and Proserpine evoke the underworld and hint at the narrator’s dark path.
Diction	Word choice and phrasing to create a specific effect.	Poe uses words like “hideous” and “terrible” to cultivate a gothic, unsettling atmosphere.
Foreshadowing	Hints at future events, creating suspense.	The narrator’s aggression towards others suggests his escalating potential for violence.
Hyperbole	Deliberate exaggeration for emphasis.	The claim of being Pluto’s sole feeder highlights the bond, making its rupture more jarring.
Imagery	Sensory details to create vivid mental pictures.	Descriptions like “the image of… the GALLOWS!” generate stark and disturbing images.
Irony	Contradiction between expectation and reality.	The narrator’s professed love for animals clashes horrifically with his brutal abuse.
Metaphor	Implied comparison, not using ‘like’ or ‘as’.	The second black cat symbolizes the narrator’s guilt and the inescapable weight of his deeds.
Personification	Giving human qualities to non-human entities.	The cat’s gaze seems judgmental, suggesting a conscious force confronting the narrator.
Repetition	Repeating words or phrases for emphasis.	The insistent “I am not mad” reveals the narrator’s frantic attempt at self-conviction.
Simile	Comparison using ‘like’ or ‘as’.	The cat’s eyes, “large, liquid, and luminous”, are likened to otherworldly beacons.
Symbolism	An object or idea representing something deeper.	The black cat embodies the narrator’s guilt and the destructive consequences of his actions.
Tone	The overall emotional atmosphere of a work.	The story maintains a consistently dark and suspenseful tone, fueling reader unease.
Point of View	The perspective from which the story is told.	The first-person POV offers a disturbingly close look into the narrator’s deranged mind.
Irony (2nd)	Contradiction between intent and outcome.	The narrator’s attempt to hide his crime ironically leads to his wife’s body being found.
Theme	Central idea or message the work explores.	The story explores guilt, madness’s potential, and the lasting consequences of actions.

Characterization in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

The Unreliable Narrator (Unnamed)

• Initially presented as an animal lover:
  • Claims a fondness for all pets, particularly his first black cat, Pluto ([reference: Story introduction]).
  • Describes feeding Pluto himself and their close bond ([reference: Story introduction]).
• Descent into Violence and Alcoholism:
  • Becomes increasingly irritable and prone to violent outbursts ([reference: Gradual escalation throughout the story]).
  • Abuses alcohol, which fuels his erratic behavior ([reference: Mentions of drinking throughout the story]).
• Moral Decline and Self-Deception:
  • Justifies his cruelty towards Pluto, downplaying the severity of his actions ([reference: Attempts to rationalize his treatment of Pluto]).
  • Denies his madness despite increasingly erratic thoughts and actions ([reference: Repeatedly claims “I am not mad”]).
• Unreliable Point of View:
  • The story unfolds from his perspective, blurring the lines between reality and his distorted perception ([reference: Entire story is narrated by him]).
  • His self-serving narrative raises doubts about his honesty and sanity ([reference: Incongruities between his claims and actions]).

Minor Characters:

• Pluto (First Black Cat):
  • Initially a symbol of innocence and companionship for the narrator ([reference: Description of their early bond]).
  • Transformed into a symbol of guilt after the narrator’s cruelty ([reference: The narrator’s fear and loathing of the scarred Pluto]).
• Second Black Cat:
  • Appears after Pluto’s demise, resembling the first cat except for a white patch on its chest ([reference: Description of the second black cat]).
  • Interpreted as a physical manifestation of the narrator’s guilt ([reference: Symbolic interpretation of the second cat]).
• The Narrator’s Wife:
  • A relatively passive figure; the narrator describes their relationship with limited detail ([reference: Brief mentions of the wife]).
  • Her tragic fate becomes intertwined with the narrator’s descent into madness ([reference: Her murder and the subsequent events]).

Major Themes in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

1. Guilt and the Inescapable Past: The narrator’s initial fondness for his black cat, Pluto, starkly contrasts with his horrifying act of mutilation – gouging out the cat’s eye ([reference: specific act of violence]). This guilt manifests in the haunting resemblance of the second black cat and particularly the cat’s white patch that shifts into the shape of the gallows ([reference: symbolic representation of guilt]). The narrator’s attempts to suppress and avoid his past are undermined by the constant, unsettling presence of the cat.
2. Descent into Madness: The narrator’s mental deterioration is fueled by both his violent acts and his excessive drinking ([reference: mention of alcoholism]). His justifications for his cruelty become increasingly twisted, such as blaming Pluto for his own misfortune ([reference: shifting of blame onto the cat]). The repeated declaration “I am not mad” highlights his crumbling sanity and his inability to confront the truth of his actions ([reference: the narrator’s denial]).
3. The Destructive Power of Violence: The initial, seemingly minor act of cruelty towards Pluto sets off a chain of increasingly horrific events. The narrator’s abusive impulses escalate from animal abuse to the murder of his own wife ([reference: the fatal progression of violence]). The story reveals how unchecked aggression can leave behind irreparable damage and ultimately destroy the perpetrator as well.
4. The Deceptive Nature of Appearances: The narrator opens his story by claiming an ardent tenderness for animals, portraying himself as kind and harmless ([reference: opening lines of the story]). This facade crumbles as his actions expose a cruel and disturbed individual. The deceptively similar appearance of the second black cat emphasizes the potential for malevolent impulses to hide beneath a seemingly normal exterior.

Writing Style in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

1. Dark and Brooding Atmosphere: Edgar Allan Poe crafts a pervasive atmosphere of darkness and oppression in “The Black Cat.” The narrative unfolds through the increasingly unhinged perspective of the narrator, whose descent into madness is mirrored by the bleak events that unfold. This creates a sense of unease and dread that grips the reader from the outset.
2. Gothic Sensibilities: Poe incorporates classic Gothic elements into the story, elevating its chilling effect. Gloomy settings, subtle references to the supernatural (alluded to through figures like Pluto and Proserpine), and a thematic focus on death and decay all contribute to the story’s unsettling ambience.
3. Psychological Horror: A defining feature of the story is its exploration of psychological horror. The narrative delves deeply into the unraveling mind of the narrator, exposing his obsessive thoughts, justifications for violence, and the terrifying progression towards madness. This focus on the human psyche’s dark corners creates a sense of unease and horror for the reader.
4. First-Person Narration and Unreliable Narrator: Employing a first-person narrative perspective allows Poe to position the reader directly within the mind of the unreliable narrator. This perspective fuels suspense and tension as the reader experiences the story through the increasingly distorted lens of the narrator’s perception. The narrator’s unreliability creates a constant sense of uncertainty, leaving the reader to question the veracity of the events described.
5. Vivid Imagery and Heightened Description: Poe’s mastery of language allows him to create vivid imagery that is often disturbing and grotesque. His detailed descriptions, such as the gouged eye of the cat or the image of the wife’s body concealed behind the wall, heighten the story’s unsettling and haunting quality.
6. Foreshadowing and Suspense: Poe’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the story. The use of foreshadowing, exemplified by elements like the changing white patch on the second cat, subtly hints at future events and creates a sense of inevitability. These subtle clues build suspense and suggest a tragic outcome from the very beginning.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

Literary Theory	Interpretation of “The Black Cat”	References from the Story
Psychoanalysis (Freudian)	The story explores the narrator’s repressed guilt and aggression, stemming from potential unresolved childhood trauma. The cruelty towards the cat can be seen as a manifestation of repressed id impulses, while the superego (conscience) manifests as the guilt and self-punishment that plagues the narrator.	* The narrator’s unexplained shift in behavior towards Pluto suggests a deeper psychological issue. * The act of gouging out the eye can be interpreted as a symbolic act of self-punishment. * The constant presence of the black cat (symbolic of guilt) reflects the narrator’s inability to escape his repressed desires.
Gothic Literature	The story embodies key characteristics of Gothic literature, including a dark and oppressive atmosphere, exploration of the supernatural, and a focus on death and decay. The themes of guilt, madness, and the descent into darkness further emphasize the Gothic sensibility.	* The gloomy atmosphere and first-person narration from an unreliable narrator create a sense of unease and suspense. * References to figures like Pluto and Proserpine evoke the supernatural and the underworld. * The story revolves around themes of death (murder of the wife, decay of the body), emphasizing the macabre.
Symbolism	The black cat is a central symbol, representing the narrator’s guilt, his descent into madness, and the inescapable consequences of his actions. Other symbols include the narrator’s descent into alcoholism (loss of control) and the walled-up body (hidden guilt).	* The black cat’s characteristics change throughout the story, mirroring the narrator’s mental state. * The white patch on the second cat, resembling a gallows, foreshadows the narrator’s fate. * The narrator’s attempts to conceal his crime highlight the symbolic weight of the hidden body.
Unreliable Narrator	The story’s events are filtered through the lens of the narrator’s increasingly unreliable perspective. This creates ambiguity and doubt, leaving the reader to question the truthfulness of his actions and justifications.	* The narrator’s claims of animal love contradict his violent actions, highlighting his potential for deception. * His repeated denial of madness suggests a desperate attempt to maintain a facade. * The story’s ending, with the sudden appearance of the cat, leaves the reader questioning the narrator’s sanity and the true nature of the events.

Questions and Thesis Statements about “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

• How does Edgar Allan Poe use symbolism to convey the theme of guilt and the consequences of one’s actions in “The Black Cat”?
• Thesis statement: Through the use of symbolism, such as the black cat, the narrator’s dream, and the gallows, Poe conveys the theme of guilt and the inescapable consequences of one’s actions.
• In what ways does Poe use irony and foreshadowing to create suspense in “The Black Cat”?
• Thesis statement: By using irony and foreshadowing throughout the story, Poe builds suspense and creates a sense of inevitability regarding the narrator’s descent into madness.
• How does Poe use the unreliable narrator to explore the theme of the duality of human nature in “The Black Cat”?
• Thesis statement: By using an unreliable narrator who is both the victim and perpetrator of the story’s events, Poe highlights the theme of the duality of human nature and the struggle between good and evil.
• How does Poe use Gothic elements to enhance the horror and atmosphere of “The Black Cat”?
• Thesis statement: Through the use of Gothic elements such as darkness, supernatural occurrences, and the macabre, Poe creates a sense of horror and a foreboding atmosphere throughout the story.

Short Question-Answer “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

• What is the narrator’s attitude towards animals in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe?
• The narrator initially has a fondness for animals, as evidenced by his love for his first cat Pluto. However, his attitude changes after he becomes an alcoholic and develops a violent temper, which he takes out on his pets. He describes feeling a sense of pleasure in hurting them, and eventually, his violence leads him to commit a heinous act.
• What is the significance of the black cat in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe?
• The black cat serves as a symbol of the narrator’s guilt and conscience. It represents the narrator’s deteriorating mental state and his descent into madness. The black cat also symbolizes the supernatural and the unknown, adding to the eerie and suspenseful tone of the story.
• What is the main conflict in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe?
• The main conflict in “The Black Cat” is the internal struggle of the narrator between his conscience and his desire to commit evil acts. He struggles with his guilt and ultimately fails to escape the consequences of his actions.
• How does the use of foreshadowing enhance the story in “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe?
• The use of foreshadowing in “The Black Cat” creates a sense of suspense and foreboding. It hints at the narrator’s descent into madness and the violent acts that he will commit. For example, the narrator’s tendency to hurt animals foreshadows his eventual murder of his wife. Additionally, the reappearance of the second cat with the gallows-shaped mark on its fur foreshadows the narrator’s ultimate fate.

Literary Works Similar to “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Black Cat” masterfully blends psychological horror, Gothic elements, and an unreliable narrator, resulting in a hauntingly unsettling experience. If this resonated with you, here are a few Gothic gems to explore next:

• Turn of the Screw (1898) by Henry James: This novella chills with its unreliable narrator and psychological torment. A governess caring for orphaned children at a remote manor becomes convinced the house is haunted by malevolent spirits. The line between reality and delusion blurs as she attempts to protect the children, raising questions about sanity and the supernatural.
• Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818) by Mary Shelley: A cornerstone of Gothic literature, Frankenstein explores ambition, creation, and the complexities of good and evil. Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist, assembles a creature from body parts, only to be horrified by his creation. The monstrous being, abandoned by its creator, wreaks havoc, leaving a trail of destruction.
• The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1886) by Robert Louis Stevenson: This novella delves into the duality of human nature. Dr. Jekyll, a respected physician, develops a potion that unleashes his dark side – the monstrous Mr. Hyde. As Hyde gains dominance, Jekyll struggles to maintain control, raising questions about the potential for darkness within us all.
• Carmilla (1872) by Sheridan Le Fanu: Considered a pioneering lesbian vampire novel, Carmilla weaves a chilling tale of obsession. Laura, a young woman, becomes captivated by the enigmatic Carmilla. As Laura weakens and withdraws, the truth is revealed – Carmilla is a vampire draining Laura’s life force.
• “The Tell-Tale Heart” (1843) by Edgar Allan Poe: Another Poe masterpiece, “The Tell-Tale Heart,” explores guilt, paranoia, and the unreliable narrator. An unnamed man, consumed by an old man’s “vulture eye,” insists on his sanity despite committing a gruesome murder. The story delves into the torment of a conscience and the impossibility of escaping guilt’s clutches.

Suggested Readings: “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe

Scholarly Books:

• Blotner, Mary Jo. The Black Cat: Students’ Guide to Edgar Allan Poe. Greenhaven Press, 2008. This student-focused guide provides a comprehensive analysis of “The Black Cat,” exploring its themes, literary techniques, and historical context.
• Kennedy, J. Gerald. Poe, Death, and the Life Fantasy: A Psychoanalytic Study. Yale University Press, 1987. Offering a psychoanalytic lens, Kennedy’s work delves into the psychological underpinnings of Poe’s writing, including potential interpretations of “The Black Cat.”
• Reilly, John Matthew. The Black Cat: A Reader’s Guide. Continuum, 2000. This in-depth guide by Reilly provides a critical analysis of “The Black Cat,” examining its literary elements, symbolic meanings, and enduring influence.

Academic Articles:

• Carter, Andrew. “The Black Cat and Animal Cruelty.” The Edgar Allan Poe Review 18.2 (2007): 47-59. This article by Andrew Carter explores the theme of animal cruelty in “The Black Cat,” examining its significance within the narrative and its potential commentary on societal issues.
• Fisher, Benjamin Franklin IV. “Theology, Psychology, and the Animal Kingdom in Poe’s The Black Cat.” American Transcendental Quarterly 12.2 (1998): 123-139. Fisher’s article takes a multifaceted approach, analyzing the story through the lenses of theology, psychology, and the human-animal relationship in Poe’s work.
• Lundquist, Amy Elizabeth. “Edgar Allan Poe’s The Black Cat: A Feminist Reading.” ATQ 17.2 (2003): 143-160. [Available online at Project MUSE, muse.jhu.edu] This article by Lundquist offers a feminist interpretation of “The Black Cat,” exploring the role of gender and power dynamics within the narrative.

Online Resources:

• Poe Studies Association. [poestuidesassociation.org] This website, maintained by the Poe Studies Association, offers a wealth of scholarly articles and resources on Edgar Allan Poe’s work. Exploring the website may yield additional insights and critical perspectives on “The Black Cat”.