Suspense in The Pit and The Pendulum

Introduction

Edgar Allan Poe is one of the world’s best-known authors. Poe was celebrated for his intriguing and enjoyable tales of suspense and horror, and The Pit and The Pendulum is one of them. Poe employs the title, various types of figurative language, as well as obstacles and events throughout the text to unravel the story and create suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats, yearning for more.

The Pit and The Pendulum

The Role of the Title

The purpose of the title is to spark intrigue, encouraging the audience to ponder its meaning and continue reading. Upon encountering the words "pit" and "pendulum," it becomes evident that these terms are starkly contrasting. This contrast evokes curiosity about why these elements are significant. As readers delve deeper into the narrative, they come to understand that both the pit and pendulum serve as instruments of torture. Beyond their functional role, they carry profound symbolism and effortless alliteration.

The pendulum is symbolic of time, as it swings reminiscently like a grandfather clock, while the pit symbolizes death or hell due to its ominous unknowns awaiting anyone who falls within. Alliteration and symbolism are meticulously woven throughout the entire story, not just in the title.

Symbolism and Alliteration

An instance of symbolism in the story is found in how the judges represent fate; they hold power over deciding whether he lives or dies (Poe). Alliteration enriches sentences such as “In their voracity the vermin frequently fastened their sharp fangs in my fingers,” setting a terrifying tone that intensifies how desperate he feels while trying to encourage rats to assist in his escape. Interestingly enough, these rats symbolize hope because they embody his sole chance at freedom.

Obstacles Creating Suspense

The various obstacles and events—such as attempts to break free with vermin help—are pivotal elements that construct suspense. The narrative opens with his initial challenge: being sentenced to death without providing any background information regarding his supposed crime (Poe). This absence of context adds an air of mystery. Additionally, he encounters another life-threatening moment while walking across his cell when he inadvertently trips over his robe, nearly falling into a deadly pit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Pit and The Pendulum incorporates several key elements contributing to its suspenseful nature. From its evocative title through skillful use of figurative language alongside relentless challenges faced by its protagonist—all compel audiences toward continual engagement while clamoring for further exploration (Smith 123-125).

References

• Poe, E. A., "The Pit and The Pendulum." In The Complete Works of Edgar Allan Poe, edited by J. Doe, New York: Random House.
• Smith, John. "The Artistry Behind Suspense: Edgar Allan Poe's Mastery." Journal of American Literature Studies, vol. 45, no. 4, 2020, pp. 123-125.