Question

Look up runic in a dictionary. In your own words, give at least three definitions of the term. Then review the context of the word's use in "The Bells" and state which meaning Poe most likely intended. Be sure to explain why this definition makes sense in context.

Answer 1

The term "runic" has multiple meanings, and it can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context. Here are three possible definitions

Explanation:

Related to Runes: "Runic" can refer to anything associated with runes, which are characters or letters in ancient Germanic alphabets. Runes were historically used for writing, divination, and magical purposes.

Mysterious or Enigmatic: The term "runic" might also be used more broadly to describe something mysterious, enigmatic, or encoded, often implying a sense of hidden or secret knowledge.

Old or Ancient: In a more general sense, "runic" can describe something old, ancient, or pertaining to a bygone era, especially in the context of historical or cultural references.

In the context of Edgar Allan Poe's poem "The Bells," which explores the different emotions and experiences associated with the sound of bells, the use of the term "runic" could be interpreted in connection with the mysterious or enigmatic quality of the bells. Poe might have intended to convey a sense of hidden, cryptic, or symbolic meaning associated with the sound of the bells. The use of "runic" in this context could suggest that the bells evoke a mysterious and possibly profound emotional response in the listener, enhancing the poem's overall atmospheric and psychological effect.