Edgar Allan Poe 1909

Edgar Allan Poe (1909) is an early silent biographical drama by D.W. Griffith that offers a glimpse into the life and struggles of the iconic American writer. In just 7 minutes, the film captures Poe’s poverty, his troubled relationship with his wife Virginia, and his dark creative inspirations, particularly behind The Raven. Herbert Yost portrays Poe with a haunting sensitivity, depicting the writer's inner turmoil and relentless pursuit of artistic expression. Although the film takes some artistic liberties—such as suggesting that The Raven was inspired by a vision of Virginia—it effectively reflects Griffith’s fascination with American literary figures and the cultural legacy of...