In Edgar Allen Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death, symbolism of human mortality is present among all characteristics of the short story’s setting and plot, most notably, the Intruder. Without a question, the intruder represents death itself, as Prince Prospero falls to the floor deceased upon reaching the intruder. “...turned suddenly and confronted his pursuer. There was a sharp cry---and the dagger dropped gleaming upon the sable carpet, upon which, instantly afterward, fell prostrate in death the Prince Prospero” (Poe, 9). The Intruder is also described as having a ghastly, frightening appearance, which could represent a number of things. “...nearly to resemble the countenance of a stiffened corpse” “His venture was dabbled in blood-and
