William Wilson

by Edgar Allan Poe
William Wilson cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Gothic
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10880
  • Added: 2026-02-07
  • Updated: 2026-02-18
  • Publisher: Hyweb Technology Co. Ltd.
  • Published: 2011-01-25
  • Reviews: 3

'William Wilson' is a haunting exploration of identity and guilt, featuring a protagonist tormented by his exact double. This novella by Edgar Allan Poe is renowned for its psychological depth and gothic atmosphere, making it a cornerstone of classic horror literature. /n/n The story follows a man named William Wilson who is constantly haunted by another man of the same name, who seems to be his exact double. This doppelgänger appears at crucial moments in Wilson's life, thwarting his plans and ultimately driving him to madness. Poe's masterful storytelling and atmospheric descriptions create a sense of unease and dread that permeates the entire narrative.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2026-02-18
favorite 4.00

This story is a favorite, exploring the horrifying concept of malicious doppelgangers. The cosmic horror element adds depth to the narrative.

Among Poe's works, this story stands out as a particular favorite. The exploration of the doppelgänger theme is both chilling and thought-provoking. The cosmic horror aspect adds a layer of depth, making the story even more unsettling. The narrative is engaging, drawing readers into a world where the line between reality and illusion blurs. The protagonist's struggle with his double is a gripping exploration of identity and conscience. The story's atmosphere is dense with tension, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy psychological horror.

Quick quotes

    William Wilson is one of my favourite stories by Edgar Allan Poe.

    In this one, Poe explores the horrifying, almost cosmic horror of malicious doppelgangers.

    The narrative is engaging, drawing readers into a world where the line between reality and illusion blurs.

Goodreads · 2026-02-18
magnificent 3.80

The story is gripping and thought-provoking, making readers question reality. The writing is timeless and impactful.

This tale by Edgar Allan Poe is a masterpiece that leaves a lasting impression. It's a story that makes you vibrate with its intensity, rethink your perception of reality, and even doubt yourself. The writing is timeless, showcasing Poe's unique ability to captivate and unsettle readers. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys psychological horror and deep, introspective storytelling. The atmosphere Poe creates is palpable, drawing readers into a world where nothing is as it seems. The doppelgänger theme is explored in a way that is both horrifying and fascinating, making it one of Poe's most memorable works.

Quick quotes

    Magnificent tale by the great master Edgar Allan Poe.

    It makes you vibrate, rethink reality, doubt yourself.

    His writing is timeless.

LitHub · 2020-10-12
eerie 4.20

Poe's narration is calm and measured, adding to the story's eerie effect. The doppelgänger theme is explored in a unique and unsettling way.

The way Poe narrates this story is particularly noteworthy. He maintains a calm and measured tone, which only serves to heighten the eerie atmosphere. The doppelgänger theme is explored in a way that is both unique and unsettling. The story's pacing and Poe's choice of words create a sense of dread that lingers long after the last page. The protagonist's internal struggle is vividly portrayed, making the story a compelling exploration of the human psyche. The doppelgänger is not just a mirror image but a manifestation of the protagonist's inner turmoil, adding layers to the narrative. The story's ending is particularly impactful, leaving readers with a sense of unease.

Quick quotes

    Poe doesn't reveal whether he's insane in the narration.

    He keeps things rational. He tells the story almost calmly, in a measured way.

    Not wild, but the story's pacing and Poe's choice of words create a sense of dread.

Appears in Lists