TRUE CRIME: Solving the Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe's Death…(FULL LESSON!)

This engaging lesson invites students to step into the role of investigators to unravel one of literature’s greatest mysteries: the death of Edgar Allan Poe.

Through interactive activities such as evidence analysis, video viewing, and crafting newspaper reports, students explore historical theories ranging from alcohol poisoning and illness to political foul play, delving into the macabre intrigue surrounding Poe’s final days.

The lesson encourages critical thinking, historical analysis, and creative writing, culminating in a student-led newspaper piece mimicking 19th-century journalistic style.

By merging Gothic literary elements with historical detective work, students gain a deeper appreciation of Poe’s enduring influence and mysterious legacy.

Buy this lesson for a memorable, thought-provoking exploration into the enigma of Poe’s death!

For teachers who love a bit of True Crime…I taught this after my Y8 class had finished reading “The Raven” in-between teaching them “The Tell-Tale Heart” as a one-off bit of fun…

SEE ALSO:
TRUE CRIME: Solving the Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe’s Death - https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13152942
The “Tell-Tale Heart” Lessons: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13152809
The Black Cat Lessons: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13153003
“The Raven” Lessons: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13152971