I need help for a literary analysis of "The Black Cat". I must include information about it such as symbolism, irony or any literary element. Any help possible would be greatly appriciated. Thanks

-- Anonymous, February 10, 2003

Answers

I think that the black cat symbolizes Poe when he was young. He came from a broken home and when his stepfather would act out his anger on Poe, it symbolizes the cat-killer taking out his frustration on the cat and his wife. I also think that it is ironic that the man in the story felt so bad after he had been mean to the cat and then he kills his wife and the cat while throughout the story he claims that,"He loved them and meant no harm." I hope this helps a little!!!

-- Anonymous, February 13, 2003