Edgar Allan Poe: The Fall of the House of Usher

Edgar Allan Poe: The Fall of the House of Usher

Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” tells the story of a man who visits the home of his childhood friend, Roderick Usher, who has asked him for help due to his fragile physical and mental health. Upon arrival, he finds an old and desolate mansion, which seems to have a sinister influence on its inhabitants. As the visit continues, the protagonist witnesses not only the mental deterioration of his friend but also the decline of his sister, Madeline, who is suffering from a strange disease that consumes her life. The oppressive atmosphere and supernatural events envelop the protagonist in a spiral of terror and despair.

H. P. Lovecraft: In the Vault

H. P. Lovecraft - En la cripta

“In the Vault,” a short story by H.P. Lovecraft written in 1925, tells the disturbing tale of George Birch, a miserly and unscrupulous funeral director. While relocating corpses for burial, Birch gets locked in an old crypt, dug into a mountain, with no hope of imminent rescue. In desperation, he is forced to find his way out through a small opening above the door, which he tries to enlarge using the rudimentary tools he finds in the place. While working, Birch must face supernatural and terrifying events, a consequence of his past decisions, which will mark him for life.

Edgar Allan Poe: The Cask of Amontillado

Edgar Allan Poe - El tonel de amontillado

The Cask of Amontillado is a short story by Edgar Allan Poe, published in November 1846 in Godey’s Lady’s Book magazine. Set in Italy during carnival time, it tells the story of a man who plots a subtle and calculated revenge against Fortunato, a proud wine connoisseur he considers guilty of multiple offenses. Taking advantage of his passion for amontillado sherry, he lures him into the catacombs of his house on the pretext of verifying the authenticity of a barrel. Fortunato accepts, unaware of the sinister purpose behind the invitation.