Edgar Allen Poe and a look at "The Raven"

Edgar Allen Poe was one of the most successful writers of all time. He is

known for his tales of the mysterious and macabre. He is reported to be the first

master of the short story form (Edgar Allen Poe). About 12 of his works are

known for their flawless literary construction. Poe had a rough childhood which

definitely contributed to his writing.

Poe was born in January 19th of 1809 in Boston. Poe was the son of David

Poe, an actor and Eliza Poe, an actress. Poe also had a sister. At age three Poe

was orphaned when he father disappeared one night and never returned and his

mother died of tuberculosis. Poe then went to a foster house where he was

adopted by John and Fanny Allen. Poe then at age six moved to England where he

attended private schools.

As a teen Poe was very gifted in foreign language.

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Edgar Allan Poe Museum (Richmond, Virginia)

Virginia Poe watercolor painted after her death in...

He wrote some of his

early works in both French an Latin. At age fifteen Poe had already written

enough works to publish a book but John would not allow it. Poe was also very fit

as a teen. Poe was supposedly a very fast swimmer and runner. It is reported that

Poe once as a teen swam the James river from Lundhams Wharf to Warwick Bar

which is six miles against a strong current (Woodberry 20). At 15 Poe was the

Lieutenant of the Junior Morgan Riflemen. Poe was then reviewed by the famous

Marquis De Lafayette. Poe's grandfather General Poe is where Poe most likely got

his military influence from.

In 1826 Poe enrolled into the University of Virginia. Poe wanted to become

a translator. Poe was considered to be 'precisely correct' (Moldavia). Poe also

loved debating. The student life at the University of...