Question

Read the excerpt and answer the question.

Upon its head, with red extended mouth and solitary eye of fire, sat the hideous beast whose craft had seduced me into murder, and whose informing voice had consigned me to the hangman.

Analyze Poe’s word choices in this excerpt from “The Black Cat.” Pay particular attention to his use of the word “seduced.” The tone exhibited in this excerpt can be described as _____.

embarrassed
arrogant
passing blame
guilt ridden

Answer 1

The word choice in this excerpt from "The Black Cat" by Poe, particularly his use of "seduced," suggests that the tone exhibited in this passage is "guilt-ridden."

The protagonist seems to be acknowledging his own wrongdoing and recognizing that the "hideous beast" he refers to is the one who led him down this path. The use of the word "seduced" implies that the protagonist was somehow tricked or tempted into committing murder, which adds to the sense of guilt and regret conveyed in the passage. Additionally, the use of the word "consigned" implies that the protagonist feels powerless and trapped, further emphasizing the guilt and remorse he feels.