Question

Refer to explorations in literature for a complete version of this story. read this excerpt from "the black cat" by edgar allan poe. the fury of a demon instantly possessed me. i knew myself no longer. my original soul seemed, at once, to take its flight from my body and a more than fiendish malevolence, gin-nurtured, thrilled every fibre of my frame. how does the first-person point of view affect the meaning of the text? responses readers learn the narrator's own analysis and explanation for his behavior. readers learn the narrator's own analysis and explanation for his behavior. readers gain insight into the narrator's belief that his actions were rational and justified. readers gain insight into the narrator's belief that his actions were rational and justified. readers get an inside perspective on why the narrator feels he can treat the cat as he wishes. readers get an inside perspective on why the narrator feels he can treat the cat as he wishes. readers learn about the narrator’s behavior from trustworthy outside observer of it.

Answer 1

The first-person narration in 'The Black Cat' provides insight into the narrator's reasoning and feelings but falls under the unreliability of the narrator. The narrative represents his perspective and emotional state, which often rationalizes his actions by externalizing blame.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first-person point of view in Edgar Allan Poe's The Black Cat influences the text's meaning by providing an intimate glimpse into the narrator's thoughts and feelings. We see the story through his perspective, thus understanding his actions and rationale in the story. However, it is crucial to remember he is an unreliable narrator; his explanations might not represent the objective truth. For example, his demon-like fury and departure from his original soul show his mental state's intensity, not necessarily that he was possessed by a demon. He rationalizes cruel treatment toward the cat as being driven by something beyond his control, instead of accepting personal responsibility for his actions.

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