Introduction
Edgar Allen Poe was one of the most influential poets of his time. He was both an editor and critic, although only a small amount of people enjoyed his work. He not only pioneered a new sense of reality, but also helped to transform the short story from anecdote to art. His life and criticism of his works helped him to have a worldwide influence on literature.
Early Life
Edgar Allen Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 19, 1809. He was the son of two touring actors, Elizabeth Arnold Poe, and David Poe Jr. Both, however, died before he turned three years old. After their deaths, he was taken to the home of John and Frances Allan, a childless couple living in Virginia. John Allan was a strong believer in education, and, while taking an extended business trip to England, enrolled Poe at prestigious boarding academies. It was there that Poe first became interested in popular European Gothic literature.
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