March 7 2025 Intro to Poetry Unit - The Bones of Poetry & Intro to Poe

Silent Read 20 min

Intro to Poetry Unit - Review The Bones of Poetry Presentation

Associated - Student Notes - to complete. 

Introduction to Poe

Lesson Title: The Dark Genius of Edgar Allan Poe

Objective: Students will gain an introduction to Edgar Allan Poe’s life, writing style, and influence on creative writing, particularly in gothic literature and psychological horror.

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1. The Mystery of Poe

• Start with this question:
  “What comes to mind when you hear the name Edgar Allan Poe?”
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  • Image of Poe 
    
    
    
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  • Briefly introduce him:
    • Poe (1809–1849) was a master of gothic fiction, horror, mystery, and poetry.
    • His works explore madness, death, the supernatural, and the power of the human mind.

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2. The Man Behind the Stories – Quick Biography

• Tragic Life:
  • Orphaned young, struggled with poverty, lost many loved ones to illness.
  • Struggled with addiction and had an unknown cause of death (mysterious circumstances!). Note: Reported the cause of death as phrenitis, an antiquated term for swelling or congestion of the brain. It was also a common way of politely referring to death by means of alcoholism. Sadly, none of Poe's medical records or even the actual death certificate survives. He was only 40 years old.
• Writing Style:
  • Known for dark, atmospheric settings, unreliable narrators, and psychological depth.
  • Master of suspense and poetic language.

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3. What Made Poe Unique? – Literary Influence

• Father of the modern detective story (created the blueprint for Sherlock Holmes-type mysteries).
• Master of horror and psychological thrillers (explored fear, paranoia, and guilt).
• Famous Works:
  • The Tell-Tale Heart (a descent into madness). Video 8 min. 
  • Next Class - The Raven (haunting poem about loss and obsession).
  • Annabel Lee - (about love can transcend death)