Final answer:
In 'The Tell-Tale Heart', the narrator views himself as sane, a belief that is challenged by his actions suggestive of madness. This self-perception of sanity amidst clear signs of mental disturbance is a common theme in Edgar Allan Poe's works, like in 'The Fall of the House of Usher', where reflections symbolize the state of the human condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the passage from 'The Tell-Tale Heart', the narrator believes he is sane, as indicated by his detailed planning and methodical actions. He does not view himself as careless or regretful; rather, he sees his careful steps as evidence of his sanity. However, despite his insistence on sanity, his actions and the extreme measures he takes suggest a descent into madness. This aligns with Edgar Allan Poe's theme throughout his works, where characters often wrestle with their sanity and the consequences of their actions.
For example, in 'The Fall of the House of Usher', the reader gets a glimpse into a world filled with bleak and dark imagery, where the narrator is called the "Madman" by Roderick. The narrative plays with reflections both physical, in the tarn, and mental, in the mirror of the human condition. The reflections intensify the sense of doom and inevitable despair, further questioning the narrator's sanity and the state of humanity. The stories by Poe demonstrate his view that humanity is hopelessly doomed, consistently tying back to themes of sanity, insanity, and self-awareness.