"The Pit and the Pendulum" is a short story written by Edgar Allan Poe and uses themes such as the conflict between physical and mental aspects of the human body. Poe also uses religion as a major theme in this story. This story is perhaps one of Poe's more popular works. Poe uses elements frequently repeated in his other stories.
             "The Pit and the Pendulum" combines elements of both the grotesque and the arabesque (Thompson). This is shown when the main character must use his mind to overcome his torturers when his physical capabilities have failed him. Though not one of Poe's best works, it achieves its own place as a hair-raising short story. This story uses symbolism involving religion, such as, the hand of General Lasalle reaching down to save the man represents the hand of god saving a soul. When the cell is about to explode this represents the fire and brimstone of hell (Thompson).
             "The Pit and the Pendulum" also uses aspects of the struggle between the two states of consciousness (Burduck). The states are that of the grotesque, which is of the body, and the arabesque, that of the mind. Mostly, the story is told by a man with only mental capabilities because physical exertion proves impossible at times. This is shown when the man is attempting to determine the size of the cell when he faints because he was so physically drained. Much of the story is devoted to the conflict of these two consciousnesses. As the man tries to free himself, he must rely on his sometimes maddened mind (Burduck). This stroy shows us that mankind can achieve their goal through his intelligence, and succeed despite overwhelming odds. This is exemplified by showing the man with almost no chance of survival and must rely on his mind and will power to live, who eventually beats his oppressors.
             I believe that this story shows that if we have faith in being rescued and a strong will to triumph ove...