William Wilson

What it is

This short story, written by Edgar Allan Poe and first published in 1839, follows a man named William Wilson who is haunted throughout his life by a double who shares his name, appearance, and birth date.

Why it matters

The story's school setting is based on Poe's own childhood years at a school near London, and even the headmaster's name matches Poe's real headmaster. The tale explores the idea of a double representing conscience, showing Poe's interest in psychological horror and the divided self. It reflects both Poe's personal history and his careful, controlled writing style.

Look closer

• Why might Poe have based the story's setting on his own childhood school?
• What does the double represent, and how does the ending support that idea?
• How does the ornate cover of the annual in which the story first appeared compare to the story's dark subject?