The Fall of the House of Usher
#20 in Classics illustrated Series
What’s inside...
Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Fall of the House of Usher' delves the dark depths of the subconscious and traces the hidden terrors of the human soul. Comics legends Jay Geldhof and P. Craig Russell bring their dark sensibilities to this masterpiece of literature.
Character compass
The Unnamed Narrator
Madeline Usher
Roderick Usher
Discussion points
How did the atmosphere or setting of the story make you feel? Can you describe it?
What do you think the house represents in the story?
Why do you think Roderick Usher behaves the way he does?
How do the characters' actions affect their surroundings?
What can we learn about the importance of caring for our mental health from the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by setting a calm, focused environment to discuss the book, minimizing distractions to enhance concentration and engagement.
Encourage your child to describe the imagery and mood of the story, discussing how it contributes to the overall theme.
Ask your child what they think about the characters’ decisions and behaviors, promoting critical thinking.
Relate themes of the book to personal experiences or current events to make the conversation more relevant and insightful.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing the emotional states of the characters and the reasons behind their actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of isolation
Explanation: The story portrays the mysterious and eerie atmosphere of isolation experienced in the House of Usher, emphasizing its profound effects on the characters' mental and emotional state.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children comprehend the importance of social interaction and the potential negative consequences of prolonged isolation, encouraging them to actively seek and cherish connections with family and friends.
Example Lesson: The importance of emotional expression
Explanation: The characters in the story often suppress their emotions, which contributes to their tragic outcomes. This demonstrates how bottling up emotions can lead to increased stress and mental health issues.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings openly and constructively, rather than keeping them inside, for better emotional and mental wellbeing.
Example Lesson: Effects of a gloomy environment on mood
Explanation: The dark and decaying setting of the Usher house mirrors the gloomy and deteriorating state of its inhabitants, illustrating how one’s environment can deeply influence one's mood and outlook.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the significance of creating a positive and vibrant surroundings at home and school to foster a healthier mindset and more joyful experiences.
Example Lesson: Consequences of neglect
Explanation: The story shows how the house and the Usher family fall into disrepair due to neglect, symbolizing how ignoring problems rather than facing them can lead to their worsening.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of addressing issues promptly, whether they are personal challenges or maintenance tasks, to prevent them from escalating.