Essay on Setting in Poes The Masque (Mask) of the Red Death :: Mask Masque Red Death Essays

Use of Setting in The Masque of the Red Death ...In the low-spirited chamber the effect of the fire-light that streamed upon the black hangings through the blood-tinted panes was ghastly in the extreme, and produced so wild a look upon the countenances of those who entered, that there were few of the company forward enough to set foot within its precincts at all (210). This reference serves to demonstrates Edgar Allan Poes descriptive abilities. In The Masque of the Red Death Poe gives much specific about the setting. Poe uses detail about the setting to make the story thinkable, to land derision to the story, and to create an atmosphere appropriate for the appearance of the Red Death. In retrospect, The Masque of the Red Death is not a vary believable story. However, Poes description of the setting presents the proofreader with much(prenominal) a realistic sign of the scene that the reader cannot help but believe the story when startle it is first read. The rea der is manipulated by the informant into believing that the story could really be true. Poe accomplishes this manipulation by describing the setting in great detail. ostensibly half of the story is setting, rather than actual action. Poe begins with description of the Red Death, proceeds to calculate the castellated abbey, and finally the imperial suit. By paying such close attention to detail, the author has created a believable image in the mind of the reader. The creation of such believable aspects of the story is important. Within this believable image, the unbelievable arrival of the mantled figure (the Red Death) gains credibility. Without such believable aspects, the arrival of such a presence would not be credible. Poe uses setting to create irony in the story. The description of the castellated abbey includes the facts that, a strong and lofty skirt girdled it, and that the gates had been welded shut (209). Both the high wall and the welded gates were thi nk to keep the Red Death out of the castle, when, ironically, they actually trapped it inside. Poe leaves clues to the reader that this may occur. He includes the statement that the welded gates prevent egress as well as ingress. Furthermore, a girdle is typically used to nail something in, rather than keep something out.