The representation of disability in literature is of significant importance as it reflects societal attitudes towards individuals with physical and mental impairments. This study employs a Disability Studies approach to explore how Edgar Allan Poe portrays disability in his selected short stories: “The Fall of the House of Usher,” “The Man of the Crowd,” “The Cask of Amontillado,” “The Black Cat,” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.” By closely analyzing these narratives, the research sheds light on Poe's treatment of disability, the symbolic significance attributed to various forms of disability, and its implications for understanding the author's broader themes and narrative strategies. Over time, the concept of disability in literature has evolved, moving from simplistic and negative portrayals to more nuanced and empathetic representations. Poe's Gothic fiction and psychological explorations provide a compelling lens to examine the multifaceted aspects of disability. The study identifies how disability functions within the selected stories, influencing character development and plot progression. Through the theoretical framework of Disability Studies, Poe's exploration of disability enhances the depth and intricacy of his storytelling. The findings underscore Poe's sensitivity to human psychology and his ability to seamlessly incorporate disability into his tales, offering insights into individual struggles and prevalent societal attitudes of his time. This research enriches Disability Studies by providing a fresh perspective on Poe's representation of disability and its significance in his work. It also deepens our understanding of Poe's literary techniques and thematic explorations, showcasing disability as a poignant and illuminating motif throughout his selected short stories.
