Special Sub-Topic: Poe Click Here To Play: Poe

Poe's natural parents were

Actors. Poe's father abandoned the idea of a law career and attempted acting. Poe's mother was an actress. As with many women in Poe's life, she died young.

Poe went to live with John Allan and wife. Allan was somewhat {affluent;} how did he make his money?

Merchant. John Allan was a successful merchant- but he never quite understood or got along well with with Poe.

Poe spent some time at the University of Virginia and at West Point. Which statement best describes his performance?

He was forced to leave both places. Poe failed in both places. Gambling and debts doomed him at the Univ. of Va., while his dislike of army life led him to instigate his own dismissal.

Poe married his cousin. Aside from the family connection, what was the most unusual aspect of the marriage?

Her age. She was 13 when she married Poe.

Poe's wife died young? What was the cause?

Tuberculosis. TB took her- at an early age, of course

This author translated Poe's works.

Charles Baudelaire. Baudelaire was greatly impressed by Poe's works.

Poe also died young- substance abuse and poverty are not conducive to long life. What time frame accurately reflects his life and career?

First half of the 19th century. He was in his early 40's when he died.

Poe is often given credit for being the author of the first modern detective story. What is the story?

'Murders in the Rue Morgue'. All are by Poe, but it is 'Rue Morgue' that presents the detective, Dupin.

Which is NOT a poem by Poe?

'Christabel'. All are poems by Poe. 'Alone' is a grim and autobiographical work. The others are also grim and depressed. 'Christabel' is a poem by Coleridge.

Which is not a short story by Poe?

'The Lottery'. All are stories by Poe. 'MS' was a prize-winning story for Poe. 'Ligeia' is one of his familiar haunted women. 'Lottery' is a classic short story by Shirley Jackson.