Similarities Between The Cat And The Fall Of The House Of Usher

There are over 170,000 words in the English language, and of those words, multiple meanings for each. Take for example, the word “gothic” and look at it from a mid-18th century point of view. This simple combination of six letters can be used to describe the architectural stylings of a building, a constitutional balance, or better yet- imbalance, in power or simply a genre of horror fiction that highlights haunting, isolation, obscurity and monstrosity. Edgar Allen Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher, as well as Matthew Lewis’ The Monk are both excellent examples of Gothic fiction that demonstrate the polysemous nature of the term Gothic. As per the first definition introduced, gothic art describes the medieval style of architecture found
This gothic constitution is one that was thought to stand against political revolution, but with all political hierarchies come rebellion, corruption and attempts to overthrow those in power. As demonstrated by the existence of “Whigs and Tories” in gothic politics, non-conformity and the exploitation of power is ever present in gothic writing. Matthew Lewis’ 18th century novel The Monk centers around Ambrosio, a devout monk who eventually succumbs to lustful temptations while foolishly believing that his high status could protect him. During contemplation of his sinful plans, Ambrosio believes that “his fame was too firmly established to be shaken by the unsupported accusations of two unknown women” (Lewis). However, when caught in the act by the victim’s mother, she accuses him, yelling that “your iniquity shall be unveiled to the public eye. All Madrid shall shudder at your perfidy, your hypocrisy, and incontinence” (Lewis). The use of the monk as the typical corrupt Gothic villain damned by his own excessive power exemplifies the malfeasance often seen within the gothic constitution and its