Tremblings of identity in the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Jorge Luis Borges

Abstract

Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) and Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986) are both considered to be important writers of essays, short fiction and poetry. The aim of this dissertation is to explore the tremblings of personal identity in both writer's works based on a philosophical background. A general overview of the philosophical debates revolving around identity is presented in the introduction, which is crucial to the purposes of this dissertation and the exploration of identity along with its destabilisation, which is argued to be found in both writers. The first chapter deals with Poe's mostly physical representations and limitations of identity, and delves into the various methods with which Poe illustrates the finite qualities of existence. Borges's explorations of notions of identity are dealt with in the second chapter. Identity is revealed to be in constant flux, and its existence is thoroughly questioned and further destabilised through the aesthetic rendering of philosophical thought evident throughout Borges's works. The conclusion affirms the notions of identity found in both writers, and compares both their works in order to reveal a common thread of affinities, along with contrasts, between the two. Poe's importance to Borges is also outlined, along with the latter's problematization of the former. The existence of personal identity is also questioned, leading to the declaration of its simultaneous existence and inexistence.