Question

Which BEST analyzes the symbolism of the fourth stanza of this excerpt?

A) The darkness symbolizes the strange and unknown, building suspense by delaying the identity of the "late visitor."
B) The darkness symbolizes the distinct and separate malevolence of the gods and nature.
C) The darkness is just darkness and symbolizes a life filled with unfulfilled dreams and meaningless encounters.
D) The darkness symbolizes the evil intention of the raven and the guilt of the speaker from past misdeeds.

Answer 1

Option A) The darkness symbolizes the strange and unknown, building suspense by delaying the identity of the "late visitor."

Step-by-step explanation:

The darkness is a symbol used to denote the uncertain, unknown aspect of the future. It represents that which is unseen to the human eye, or that which cannot be easily deciphered by the human intellect. In addition, the darkness represents the uncertainty that the future holds. Thus, in this case, the author effectively used the symbolism of darkness to describe the unknown. Thus, in this case, the correct option will be option A which symbolizes the strange, unknown and uncertain suspense in the future.

Answer 2

It’s A. Lenore was name given to Edgar Allan Poe’s wife who had just died. The poem is about his grief for Lenore. And when no one shows up at the door the suspense makes him hope it’s Lenore. So by not revealing the identity it’s leading him to think the darkness symbolizes his wonder and hope for Lenore,