The Fall of the House of Usher: Why did Eliza Usher kill Mr. Longfellow?
Eliza Usher killed Mr. Longfellow out of revenge and a desire for justice. In the episode "A Midnight Dreary" of The Fall of the House of Usher, it is revealed that Eliza used to work as Mr. Longfellow's secretary and that he is the father of her children, Roderick and Madeline Usher. When Eliza falls ill, Roderick and Madeline ask Mr. Longfellow for help, but he cruelly refuses. Eliza dies at home in the presence of her children.Out of grief and anger, Roderick and Madeline bury their mother in their backyard, breaking religious sensibilities and avoiding police questioning. However, Eliza's uneasy spirit leaves her casket during a stormy night and makes her way to Mr. Longfellow's house. Roderick and Madeline witness as she chokes Mr. Longfellow with her own hands, killing him. It is implied that Eliza's spirit continues to roam around Roderick's childhood home.After Mr. Longfellow's death, control of Fortunato Pharmaceuticals passes on to Roderick and Madeline. The media portrays Mr. Longfellow's death as a heart attack in order to protect the Usher family. Roderick, vowing never to be like his father, keeps his doors open to all of his children, legitimate and illegitimate, and supports them financially. However, despite his efforts, Roderick's family begins to betray his trust.The exact reason why Eliza killed Mr. Longfellow is not explicitly stated in the summary. However, it can be inferred that Eliza sought revenge for his cruel treatment towards her and her children. Additionally, her actions may have been driven by a desire for justice and to protect her children from further harm. Eliza's death and her subsequent actions against Mr. Longfellow serve as a catalyst for the events that unfold in The Fall of the House of Usher.