Use the passage from “The Tell-Tale Heart” to answer the question. In 3-5 sentences, determine one or more themes in the passage. Cite details from the passage to support your answer. (4 points)

Answer 1

"The Tell-Tale Heart" explores themes of madness and guilt. The narrator insists on his sanity while detailing the calculated murder of an old man, which highlights the theme of unreliable perception. For instance, he claims, “I hear many things in hell,” suggesting that his own mind is plagued by tormenting thoughts, reflecting his descent into madness. Additionally, the beating of the heart serves as a powerful symbol of guilt that ultimately drives him to confess, showcasing how one's conscience cannot be easily silenced. This illustrates how guilt can manifest in destructive ways, leading to the unraveling of one's sanity.