Santhosh  

The pursuit of higher education at a Western university has long been an aspirational cornerstone for numerous individuals during their academic journey in India. This enduring dream has beckoned generations, shaping their educational ambitions and global perspectives. However, during the 1980s and 1990s, this goal was often financially prohibitive for most middle-class families. This could explain why this aspiration struck a deep chord with individuals like myself, taking on a unique form during journeys abroad. Whenever the opportunity arose, visits to universities became a regular part of my itinerary.

Now, here in Virginia, taken a day from my schedule to pay homage to one of the city's historic landmarks: the University of Virginia. Stepping onto the historic grounds of the University, I felt a unique sense of anticipation. My visit promised not only a journey through the halls of academia but also a chance to delve into the connection between this prestigious institution and one of America's most enigmatic literary figures, Edgar Allan Poe.

The Enigma Begins

Mr. Brantley Ussery, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Charlottesville, awaited my arrival near the university chapel. Brantley provided me with a comprehensive overview of the university's rich history.

As we embarked on a tour of the university, I couldn't help but wonder how Poe, the master of mystery and macabre, had been connected to this place. The tour began at the majestic Rotunda, designed by the founder and the President of America Thomas Jefferson himself, and wound through the charming pavilions along the iconic Lawn.

It wasn't until we reached Pavilion VII that the Poe connection began to unfold. This particular pavilion, once inhabited by the university's first professor of ancient languages, George Blaettermann, had a unique claim to fame. It was here that Poe had briefly resided during his time at the University of Virginia.

Entering the Realm of Poe

Located within the Alderman Library, the Poe Room welcomed visitors with an aura of reverence. The room was adorned with portraits and memorabilia that immediately transported me to the early 19th century, when Poe had walked these very grounds as a student.

Born in Boston on January 19, 1809, Poe moved to Richmond just three years later with his mother and infant sister. His mother, a talented actress, succumbed to pneumonia soon after their arrival, leaving her children all alone in a strange city. John Allan, a prominent Virginia merchant, agreed, under pressure from his wife, to care for Poe and to pay for his education. 

Poe enrolled at the University on February 14, 1826, the 136th of 177 students registering for the second session. He attended classes in the Schools of Ancient and Modern Languages, under Professors Long and Blaetterman. Although not known for spending long hours at his lessons, Poe was already remarkable for his brooding, lonely genius. His excellent memory allowed him to read ahead in class and recite correctly even when utterly unprepared. In his final examinations, he took top honors in French and Latin and was cited for excellence by both professors.

Only in class from seven until 9.30 each morning, Poe had ample free time to explore Charlottesville and participate in University activities. It is in this room Poe often entertained his closest friends with private readings.

Poe's Desk and Artifacts

At the heart of the room was Poe's writing desk, where he had penned some of his earliest works. As I stood before it, I couldn't help but feel a shiver of excitement. The desk bore witness to the birth of Poe's literary genius, where he had crafted tales of mystery, horror, and melancholy.

The room was also filled with an array of artifacts, including copies of Poe's original works and letters. I marvelled at the handwritten manuscripts, each stroke of Poe's quill capturing the essence of his dark and poetic soul.

The Legacy Lives On

What struck me most about the Edgar Allan Poe Room was not just the tangible relics but the enduring legacy of the man himself. Poe's presence seemed to linger in the air, his words whispering from the pages of his books and manuscripts.

The room served as a testament to the University of Virginia's commitment to preserving the memory of one of America's literary giants. It was a place where literature enthusiasts, like myself, could pay homage to the master of macabre and immerse themselves in his world.

"All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream"

The University of Virginia's unique association with Poe had made this journey both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. It was a reminder that even in the world of academia, the enigmatic tales of literary giants like Poe can continue to captivate and inspire.

As I walked away from those magnificent buildings and tree-lined lawns, Poe's haunting line, "All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream," resonated in my mind, perfectly encapsulating the sense of wonder and contemplation that such a visit can evoke. It's a reminder of the enduring power of literature and the way it can enhance our perception of the world around us.

UV: An essential destination

If you find yourself in the vicinity of Washington DC, make sure not to miss the opportunity to visit the University of Virginia and the legendary Edgar Allan Poe's room. It's just a short drive from Dulles Airport. The tourism authorities in Charlottesville are always ready to assist you in planning your visit. Alternatively, you can contact www.virginia.edu/visit to arrange your tour and exploration of this historic institution and its fascinating connections to literary history.