Gothic Diction In Poe's The Masque Of Red Death

Poe uses Gothic diction to explain the dire significance of the red death, while also creating an ominous mood. Early in the story the speaker introduces the devastation that the Red Death causes. The speaker describes the effects as “So fatal.” (1.1) The word fatal is often used when regarding something that causes death. The word choice of “fatal” shows the intensity of the illness, as the negative connotation that is created also shows that the illness was more than just “serious” and severe,” as death can not be avoided. This indicates the feeling of hopelessness, as if one was to contract this illness Even during a time where the illness was not as dire, it was always present creating an ominous feeling. During the early stages of the

The speaker describes this room as different by stating “But in this chamber only, the color of the windows failed to correspond with the decorations. The panes here were scarlet-a deep blood color.” (4.2) Many of the rooms are made to match, and pleasing to the eye. However in this room violence surrounds the walls. The phrase “A deep blood color” creates the feeling of violence or even death. The word “blood” is often used in situations where death is the ending. The idea of death lurking adds tension to the text, as it implies that it may soon take over, even though now it has not been revealed. As the masquerade continued a new guest appeared. However this person was not someone who was invited, but one who has been affected by the Red Death. The speaker described the figure as, “His vesture was dabbled in blood-and his broad brow, with all the features of the face, was besprinkled with the scarlet horror.” (8.1) The strange guest caused panic throughout the party. The phrase “scarlet horror” creates an ominous setting as the other guests become afraid of this man. Panic begins to surge as they worry that he is the embodiment of the Red