Which of the following is a represents the symbolism of the “beating heart” the narrator
hears at the end of the story?
A. His madness
B. His fear
C. His guilt
D. His humor
A. His madness
The symbolism of the "beating heart" at the end of the story is typically associated with the narrator’s guilt.
To determine which option represents the symbolism of the "beating heart" the narrator hears at the end of the story, we need to analyze the events and themes leading up to the conclusion. In this case, the symbol is taken from Edgar Allan Poe's short story "The Tell-Tale Heart."
To understand the symbolism, we have to consider the context: Throughout the story, the narrator exhibits obsessive behavior related to the old man's vulture-like eye. Eventually, the narrator's guilt becomes overwhelming, culminating in him confessing to the crime. As the story ends, the narrator starts to hear a faint sound resembling a beating heart.
Given this context, we can eliminate options B (fear) and D (humor) as possible interpretations. The presence of fear and humor doesn't align with the intense guilt and anxiety the narrator experiences.
Option A (madness) is a viable possibility. The sound of the beating heart can be seen as a manifestation of the narrator's deteriorating mental state. The guilt and the relentless sound tormenting him contribute to his descent into madness.
However, the most accurate interpretation is option C (guilt). The beating heart can symbolize the narrator's guilty conscience, echoing his moral conflict and the mounting pressure it causes. The relentless beat could represent the inescapable reminder of his heinous act.
Therefore, the answer that best represents the symbolism of the beating heart the narrator hears at the end of the story is C. His guilt.