In The Black Cat, the narrator transforms from an amiable, animal-loving man with a loving wife. He had described himself as a kind, gentle person previously. "From my infancy I was noted for the docility and humanity of my disposition. My tenderness of heart was even so conspicuous as to make me the jest of my companions." The reader sees a rapid deterioration in his domestic life and disposition. He even admits to it ashamedly in the line: " I grew, day by day, more moody, more irritable, more regardless of the feelings of others.(Poe, 143)" He explains how he personally abused his wife and his lesser loved animals until one day he finally assaults his beloved cat. What could cause such a devastating and sinister change in a seemingly kind gentleman? Alcohol. The narrator refers to his problem with consumption of alcohol as a disease that he was struggling to deal with. In addition, he blames the "Imp of Perverseness" for his transgressions and violence due to his alcohol in order to avert any responsibility from himself.
| An example of an Imp |
