The Raven

Definition

In the poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe, the raven refers to a symbol of darkness and death. It represents the narrator's descent into madness and his inability to escape from his grief.

Related terms

Symbolism:

Symbolism is when an object or action represents something deeper or more abstract than its literal meaning. For example, in "The Raven," the raven symbolizes death and despair.

Personification:

Personification is when non-human objects or animals are given human characteristics. In "The Raven," the raven is personified because it can speak and interact with the narrator as if it were human.

Grief: Grief refers to intense sorrow or sadness that one experiences after a loss. In "The Raven," the narrator's grief over losing his loved one drives him to madness as he converses with the raven.