A Review of William Wilson by Edgar Allan Poe: Duality and Psychological Horror

Title: William Wilson Author: Edgar Allan Poe Genre: Horror, Gothic Fiction, Psychological Thriller Publication Date: 1839 Introduction: "William Wilson," one of Edgar Allan Poe's most renowned works, is a short novella that explores themes of duality, self-identity, and psychological torment. The narrative follows the life of William Wilson, who becomes entangled in a lifelong rivalry with another man also named William Wilson. Summary: The protagonist narrates his journey from childhood to adulthood, detailing how he is haunted by an identical twin named William Wilson. This other "William" emerges as both a friend and a tormentor, eventually driving the narrator into despair and self-destruction. The novella culminates in a confrontation that forces the narrator to confront his own nature and the dark side within himself. Analysis: Duality and Self-Identity Poe masterfully uses duality as a central theme, with the protagonist struggling to distinguish be...