Unique Color Symbology in Poe's Tales of Terror

Abstract

Previous studies have understood and interpreted Poe's color use in psychological or traditional terms. Poe, however, was a conscientious craftsman whose every word, as he himself said, contributed to the total effect of each of his tales. His color use is, therefore, unique in each tale, as each story differs from the others in content and effect. This paper, therefore, seeks to establish Poe's artistry andunderscore the significant role color symbolism, specifically, and pictorialism, more generally, contribute to the effectiveness of his Tales of Terror.