The Fall of the House of Usher
Why did Poe name the family "Usher" in "The Fall of the House of Usher"?
What does this name mean? I literally don't have a single clue!
What does this name mean? I literally don't have a single clue!
I've never actually thought about this question, nor have I ever heard any type of explanation. I found the explanation below in three different locations, I hope it helps.
Poe's inspiration for the story may be based upon events of the Usher House, located on Boston's Lewis Wharf. As that story goes, a sailor and the young wife of the older owner were caught and entombed in their trysting spot by her husband. When the Usher House was torn down in 1800, two bodies were found embraced in a cavity in the cellar.
Another source of inspiration may be from an actual couple by the name Mr. and Mrs. Luke Usher, the friends and fellow actors of his mother Eliza Poe. The couple took care of Eliza's three children (including Poe) during her time of illness and eventual death.
http://www.longbeachopera.org/2013-season/the-fall-of-the-house-of-usher