Publication date: 1839
Published by: Burton's Gentleman's Magazine
Genre: Gothic Fiction (Classic Horror)
Synopsis
The story is told by an unnamed narrator. It begins with him arriving at the House of Usher, which belongs to a childhood friend, Roderick Usher, having been summoned by him in a letter. As he approaches the house he describes the view. The house and its surroundings look drab and uncared for. He gets an uneasy feeling as he looks at it.
Inside the house he is reacquainted with his old friend, Roderick, and is shocked by how altered he is, remembering how pleasing to the eye he was when they were younger. Roderick now looks sickly, thinner and much older than his years. It is clear to his friend that he is very unwell.
Soon after, he catches a glimpse of Roderick's sister, Madeline, who is also very sick. Roderick tells his friend that she is dying and does not have long. Madeline takes to her bed and remains out of sight. He does his best to keep Roderick occupied and entertained, which works initially, but fails to as time goes on. Roderick tells him that he believes the house is a sentient being whose life source comes from the old stones and the surrounding plant life. As time goes by, Roderick's behaviour becomes increasingly unstable and the narrator becomes increasingly concerned about his mental state.
My Review
First impressions:
I first read The Fall of the House of Usher about 8 years ago, so this is a re-visit. I had only read gothic romance before that (namely Jane Eyre and Rebecca) - which I prefer.
The upside:
I enjoyed the writing, from the way the narrator describes The House when he first arrives, to the events that occur while he is in it. I found it aided my imagination, helped me picture the scenes.
I was interested in the way the story draws comparisons between the deteriorating condition of the house and its occupants (Roderick and Madeline). We learn that they are the last of the Ushers - there are no others left to carry on the family name, so when they die, so does the family line.
As the story reaches its peak it becomes an increasingly thrilling read. I was gripped, eager to know where it was going and how it would end.
The downside:
This is a classic gothic story, so for fans of modern horror I suspect that the story may score low on 'thrill factor'.
The Verdict:
A great read for lovers of classic lit, especially gothic fiction. Then again, if that's you, you've probably read it already.
It is short and therefore a quick read - just the thing for Halloween.
