What is the theme of tell-tale heart?

The theme of "The Tell-Tale Heart," a short story written by Edgar Allan Poe, revolves around the psychological effects of guilt, paranoia, and madness. The narrator, who is the main character, struggles with his wavering sanity and his obsession with the old man's vulture-like eye, which ultimately drives him to commit murder.

Guilt is a prominent theme in the story, as the narrator becomes increasingly tormented by his guilty conscience after killing the old man. He becomes haunted by the sound of the old man's heart, which he perceives as the relentless pounding of guilt, showing how guilt can consume and torment a person's mind.

Paranoia is another central theme, as the narrator is obsessed with the thought that the old man's eye can see through his false appearances. This paranoia eventually leads him to commit the heinous act of murder, driven by his own fear and irrationality.

Madness is a recurring theme throughout the narrative, as the narrator's actions and thoughts become increasingly erratic and irrational. His obsession with the old man's eye and the subsequent murder depict a descent into madness and an inability to distinguish between reality and his own distorted perception.

Overall, the theme of "The Tell-Tale Heart" delves into the dark depths of the human mind, exploring the destructive power of guilt, paranoia, and madness. It forces readers to question the boundaries of one's sanity and the consequences of succumbing to one's inner demons.