The Masque of the Red Death

"The Masque of the Red Death" is a Gothic short story by Edgar Allan Poe that centers on Prince Prospero and other wealthy nobles who attempt to evade a deadly plague by isolating themselves in his abbey and hosting a masquerade ball. The revelry takes a chilling turn when a mysterious, ghostly figure appears among the guests, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Rich in symbolism and often interpreted as an allegory on mortality, the story explores themes of inevitable death and human hubris. It has been widely adapted and remains a prominent work in Poe's literary legacy.