Project Title
Time and the Sublime: Poe as a Philosopher
Faculty Mentor(s) Name(s)
Jennifer Flaherty
Abstract
Edgar Allan Poe applies contrasting philosophic theories of the concept of time unto his works as he explores the confines and expanses of natural time. His short story, “The Pit and the Pendulum” delves into the human fears of passing time in a linear sense. This story implements Isaac Newton’s theories of absolute space and absolute time—a distinct, unparalleled being, unaffected by human existence. Poe amplifies the innate lack of control over the relentless tick of the passing seconds as he displays humans as inferior to the power of nature. Yet, Poe explores the differing philosophic theory of cyclical time through his short story, “The Fall of the House of Usher”. This narrative follows the notions put forth by Friedrich Nietzsche of an eternal return—an infinite, paralleled being. Humans are given more control as they have the ability to return to this space. In both pieces, the sublime is achieved through differing experiences of time and space as Poe ponders the wonders of existence. To comprehend human understandings of time is to understand humans’ sense of purpose. Through Poe’s 19th century lens, the two contrasting perceptions of time will lead to a better conception of historical perspectives.
Time and the Sublime: Poe as a Philosopher
Edgar Allan Poe applies contrasting philosophic theories of the concept of time unto his works as he explores the confines and expanses of natural time. His short story, “The Pit and the Pendulum” delves into the human fears of passing time in a linear sense. This story implements Isaac Newton’s theories of absolute space and absolute time—a distinct, unparalleled being, unaffected by human existence. Poe amplifies the innate lack of control over the relentless tick of the passing seconds as he displays humans as inferior to the power of nature. Yet, Poe explores the differing philosophic theory of cyclical time through his short story, “The Fall of the House of Usher”. This narrative follows the notions put forth by Friedrich Nietzsche of an eternal return—an infinite, paralleled being. Humans are given more control as they have the ability to return to this space. In both pieces, the sublime is achieved through differing experiences of time and space as Poe ponders the wonders of existence. To comprehend human understandings of time is to understand humans’ sense of purpose. Through Poe’s 19th century lens, the two contrasting perceptions of time will lead to a better conception of historical perspectives.