This podcast explores the mysterious disappearance and death of writer Edgar Allan Poe, including theories of alcohol abuse, political conspiracy, and medical conditions. It also discusses Poe's struggles with alcohol, his scandalous affair, and his enduring legacy.
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Quick takeaways
Edgar Allan Poe's cause of death remains uncertain, with theories ranging from alcoholism to political conspiracies and medical ailments.
The involvement of Poe's literary executor, Rufus Griswold, has raised suspicions of a conspiracy surrounding Poe's death.
Deep dives
Possible Causes of Edgar Allan Poe's Death
The cause of Edgar Allan Poe's death is still uncertain, with various theories proposed. Some believe alcoholism was the cause, but this theory is disputed as Poe's low alcohol tolerance doesn't align with symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Other theories include cooping, a political practice of kidnapping and forcing victims to vote multiple times, and a conspiracy involving Poe's romantic entanglements. Medical maladies such as a brain tumor, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even rabies have also been suggested. The involvement of Poe's literary executor, Rufus Griswold, has raised suspicions of a conspiracy surrounding Poe's death.
Poe's Life and Career
Edgar Allan Poe, a 19th-century writer, poet, and editor, faced hardships and tragedies throughout his life. Abandoned by his father and losing his mother at a young age, Poe was taken in by foster parents who provided him with education and treated him as their own. He pursued various careers in writing, editing, and lecturing, gaining recognition for his eerie and macabre stories. However, financial struggles, personal losses, and battles with alcoholism plagued his life. Despite his fame, Poe was buried hastily with a small attendance, but in later years, his legacy and works continue to be celebrated.
Conflicting Theories
Numerous theories surround Poe's death, including those involving alcoholism, political conspiracies, and medical ailments like brain tumors or rabies. Some believe that alcohol dehydrogenase deficiency syndrome, combined with a brain tumor, could have played a role. Others point to the possibility of political cooping, where Poe was caught up in fraudulent voting practices. The involvement of Poe's nemesis and literary executor, Rufus Griswold, has raised suspicions of a conspiracy. Ultimately, due to conflicting accounts and hidden agendas, the true cause of Poe's death remains a mystery.
Poe's Last Days and Scenarios
In the final days before his death, Poe's whereabouts and activities are unclear. He was found outside a saloon, delirious and wearing someone else's clothes. Theories range from political cooping, where he may have been forced to vote multiple times, to personal vendettas and conspiracies involving romantic entanglements. Some suggest that Poe's low tolerance for alcohol and potential medical conditions, such as rabies or heart disease, played a role. The involvement of his executor, Rufus Griswold, and conflicting testimonies add to the mystery surrounding Poe's last days.
This 2012 episode from previous hosts Sarah and Deblina covers the unusual circumstances surrounding Edgar Allan Poe's disappearance, reappearance, and death.