How exactly did his wife Virginia die? At what age?

-- Anonymous, March 06, 2000

Answers

Jaime,

Virginia Eliza Clemm was born August 15, 1822. Virginia was a cousin of Poe and the daughter of Maria Clemm, Poe's Aunt whom he often referred to as "Muddy". It appears Virginia had contracted tuberculosis as early as 1844 or earlier and endured several years of deteriorating health. Her declining health had agonized Poe terribly and resulted in fits of depression and bouts of drinking. It was said that they loved each other dearly, were mutually devoted and some said that they had never heard an angry word between them.

Virginia died on January 30, 1847 at the age of 24 years and 5 months. Virginia was said to have been beautiful and had dark black hair with large dark eyes which severly contrasted her severly pale complexion. These attributes were often considered very appealing and probably would have appealed to Edgar. In my view, there is little question for whom the poem "Annabel Lee" was intended.

-- Anonymous, March 06, 2000

From that description of Virginia I'd have to say that Ligea was about her to.

dave

-- Anonymous, March 08, 2000