Essay Sample on Vampirism in “The Fall of the House of Usher”
Last update:
Table of contents
Originally written in 1839, Edgar Allan Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher has been the subject of extensive literary analysis. One of the most intriguing discussions revolves around the illness that afflicts Madeline Usher. While Poe never explicitly identifies her condition, various theories suggest that she suffers from vampirism. This interpretation is supported by textual evidence throughout the story, combined with the 19th-century fascination with death and gothic horror. The narrative structure, eerie atmosphere, and supernatural undertones strengthen the argument that Madeline embodies the characteristics of a vampire.
19th-Century Perspectives on Death and Vampirism
Poe’s literary career flourished during the mid-1800s when gothic horror and the romantic cult of death were prominent themes in literature. According to literary historian Burton R. Pollin, “At the heart of the 19th-century romantic cult of the dead lay a profound ambivalence towards the dead body.” This cultural fascination allowed Poe to explore themes of living death and supernatural afflictions, which were widely embraced by his readership. By afflicting Madeline with a mysterious and seemingly incurable condition, Poe capitalized on society’s preoccupation with death while introducing a new layer of gothic horror—the idea that the dead might not remain in their graves.
Moreover, vampire mythology was already well established in literature by the time Poe wrote The Fall of the House of Usher. As scholar Paul Kendall notes, “Both male and female vampires abounded in literature by the time [Poe] published his contributions to the genre in 1839.” Thus, Poe had a foundation to build upon, subtly weaving vampiric elements into his work while maintaining a sense of psychological ambiguity.
Pro tip
If analyzing layered symbolism or gothic elements feels overwhelming, consider getting professional essay writing help to turn your ideas into a compelling literary analysis.
Vampiric Traits in Madeline Usher
One of the primary indicators of Madeline’s vampirism is her hereditary affliction. Roderick Usher refers to her illness as “a constitutional and family evil” (Poe 767), implying that it is an inherited curse rather than a mere physical disease. This aligns with certain vampire traditions in which vampirism runs in families, transforming it from a supernatural event into an inherited condition.
Additionally, Poe incorporates a cryptic reference to the origins of the Usher family’s affliction through Roderick’s recital of a poem:
“But evil things, in robes of sorrow,
Assailed the monarch’s high estate;
(Ah, let us mourn, for never morrow
Shall dawn upon him, desolate!)” (Poe 770).
This passage suggests that the Usher bloodline was cursed by an ancient supernatural force, further supporting the vampiric interpretation.
Superhuman Strength and the Fear of Burial
Another compelling argument for Madeline’s vampirism is her extraordinary strength. After being entombed in an underground vault, she escapes from her coffin and breaks through the massive iron door—a feat that seems impossible for a frail, dying woman. Poe describes the vault as “entirely without means of admission for light” and with a “door of massive iron” (Poe 772). Given that Madeline was suffering from a wasting disease and had not eaten for days, her sudden resurgence of strength suggests supernatural abilities, a hallmark of vampire lore.
While some may argue that she was simply desperate to escape, the sheer physical impossibility of her actions suggests otherwise. Vampires are often depicted as having unnatural resilience and power, traits that Madeline exhibits in her final moments.
The Psychological Drain on Roderick and the Narrator
While it remains unclear whether Roderick Usher himself is a vampire or merely a victim of his sister’s affliction, it is evident that Madeline exerts an unnatural influence over him. Roderick explicitly states that his declining health is directly linked to his sister:
“Much of the peculiar gloom which thus afflicted him could be traced to a more natural and far more palpable origin—to the severe and long-continued illness—indeed to the evidently approaching dissolution—of a tenderly beloved sister” (Poe 767-768).
This statement suggests that Madeline’s presence drains his vitality, much like a vampire’s feeding process. Unlike traditional vampires who consume blood, Madeline appears to drain psychic energy, weakening both her brother and the narrator. By the end of the story, even the narrator begins to exhibit signs of mental instability, indicating that Madeline’s supernatural influence extends beyond her immediate family.
The Final Confrontation: A Classic Vampiric Resurrection
In the climactic final scene, Madeline appears covered in blood, having presumably clawed her way out of her coffin. Poe describes her as follows:
“There was blood upon her white robes, and the evidence of some bitter struggle upon every portion of her emaciated frame” (Poe 774).
This imagery is strongly reminiscent of vampire folklore, where the undead are often depicted as rising from their graves with bloodstained garments. Upon seeing her, Roderick succumbs to sheer terror and dies instantly, further reinforcing the supernatural nature of her return.
Conclusion: Poe’s Unique Interpretation of Vampirism
While Poe never explicitly states that Madeline Usher is a vampire, the evidence within the text strongly supports this interpretation. Her hereditary affliction, supernatural strength, psychic drain on her brother, and resurrection from the grave all align with traditional vampire characteristics. However, rather than adhering to classic vampire tropes, Poe reimagines vampirism as a psychological and familial curse, adding depth to his gothic masterpiece.
In the context of 19th-century literature, The Fall of the House of Usher serves as a remarkable fusion of gothic horror and psychological terror, demonstrating Poe’s ability to innovate within established genres. By weaving vampiric elements into his narrative, he not only engages with contemporary literary trends but also creates a haunting and unforgettable portrayal of death, decay, and the supernatural.
FAQs About The Fall of the House of Usher and Vampirism
Is Madeline Usher a vampire?
While Poe never explicitly states that Madeline is a vampire, her supernatural strength, resurrection from the grave, and psychic drain on her brother suggest vampiric traits.
How does Poe incorporate vampirism into the story?
Poe subtly weaves vampiric elements into the narrative through hereditary affliction, unnatural strength, and gothic horror themes.
What role does Roderick Usher play in the vampire theory?
Roderick appears to be Madeline’s victim, slowly drained of life due to their supernatural connection, similar to traditional vampire lore.
Why does Madeline come back from the dead?
Her return can be interpreted as either a supernatural resurrection or an unsettling example of premature burial, though the evidence leans toward the former.
How does The Fall of the House of Usher fit into gothic literature?
The story features classic gothic elements such as a decaying mansion, psychological horror, supernatural themes, and an eerie sense of doom.
