The Tell Tale Heart - Edgar Allan Poe Lessons

Lesson Series: Exploring ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’ by Edgar Allan Poe

Learning Objectives:
Understand how Edgar Allan Poe explores Gothic literature, the concept of madness, and macabre themes in “The Tell-Tale Heart.”

Lesson 1: Introduction to Gothic Literature and "The Tell-Tale Heart"

• Discuss and write down initial thoughts on how “The Tell-Tale Heart” might fit into the Gothic genre based on these features.

Lesson 2: The Concept of Madness in "The Tell-Tale Heart"

• Number key events in the story to arrange the plot in chronological order.
• Using these events, create a “Madness Progression” graph, plotting the narrator’s descent into madness on a scale of 1 to 10.

Lesson 3: Symbolism and Atmosphere in "The Tell-Tale Heart"

• Students create a movie poster that captures the story’s themes, focusing on madness, obsession, and Gothic elements.
• Encourage use of dark colours, shadowy figures, and symbolic imagery (like the eye or heart) to convey the atmosphere.