Edgar Allan Poe 
The Masque of the Red Death 

First published in a 1842 edition of Graham’s Lady’s and Gentleman’s Magazine, The Masque of the Red Death follows Prince Prospero’s attempts to avoid a dangerous plague, known as the Red Death, by hiding in his abbey. Indifferent to the suffering outside and believing he and his wealthy guests to be safe, Prospero hosts a masquerade ball, which is stalked by a mysterious stranger dressed as the Red Death. Often considered a gothic allegory, the story reflects on not only life and death but also the illusion of control. This classic of Gothic fiction was adapted into a 1964 film starring Vincent Price.

About the author

Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) was an American author of short stories, poetry, and literary criticism and theory. Titled ‘The Master of the Macabre’ he is famous for his tales of mystery and horror. He was one of the earliest masters of the short story and is widely credited as the creator of detective fiction.