Symbols
The House of Usher
The mansion serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing the physical and mental state of the Usher family. The crack in the house becomes a visual metaphor for the family's imminent collapse, mirroring the Usher lineage's deterioration. The oppressive atmosphere within the mansion reflects the psychological decay of the family members, especially Roderick and Madeline.
The Fissure in the House
The visible crack in the mansion is a direct symbol of the family's disintegration. As the crack extends from the roof to the foundation, it emphasizes the pervasive nature of the decay. This physical flaw becomes emblematic of the underlying issues within the Usher family, contributing to the overall Gothic atmosphere of the narrative.
Premature Burial
The fear of premature burial becomes a potent symbol of the characters' dread of entrapment and mortality. Roderick's intense fear, manifested in his obsession with Madeline's premature burial, symbolizes the pervasive theme of death and decay within the narrative.
The Storm
The stormy weather symbolizes the internal turmoil of the characters, particularly Roderick's psychological chaos. As the storm intensifies, it serves as a metaphor for the family's internal struggles and the impending collapse of both the physical and mental realms.
The Tarn (Small Lake)
The tarn symbolizes the finality of the Usher family's collapse and dissolution. The mansion's collapse into the tarn at the story's conclusion signifies the ultimate demise of the Usher lineage. The tarn serves as a symbolic resting place, emphasizing the irreversible decay of the family and the inescapable fate that befalls them.
