The Fall of the House of Usher: Why does Roderick decide to kill himself?

Roderick's decision to kill himself in "The Pit and the Pendulum" is a culmination of various factors that have led him to a state of despair and hopelessness. Throughout the episode, we witness Roderick's downfall, both personally and professionally, which ultimately pushes him to take such a drastic step.One of the main reasons for Roderick's decision is the betrayal he has experienced. In the past, Roderick had teamed up with Dupin to expose the unethical practices of Fortunato Pharmaceuticals. However, when Roderick takes the stand in court, he unexpectedly turns against Dupin and claims that he was the one who signed the forged papers. This act of betrayal not only destroys their collaboration but also leads to Roderick's arrest for perjury. This betrayal shatters Roderick's trust and leaves him feeling isolated and betrayed.Another factor contributing to Roderick's decision is the loss of his wife, Morelle. Throughout the episode, Roderick's relationship with Morelle is depicted as cruel and abusive. He subjects her to torture and disfigures her mouth with pliers, punishing her for deceiving him. However, the death of his wife seems to weigh heavily on him, as he is tormented by her absence and the guilt he feels for his actions. The guilt and remorse surrounding Morelle's death likely contribute to Roderick's deteriorating mental state and his desire to escape the pain and suffering.Additionally, Roderick is plagued by the dark secrets and curses that surround the House of Usher. The episode hints at an agreement or pact that Roderick and Madeline (his sister) have made with Verna, a mysterious woman associated with the Usher family. The terms of this pact remain unclear, but it becomes evident that death is involved. Roderick understands that he must fulfill this agreement, leading him to believe that suicide is the only way to honor the pact and potentially free himself from the curse that haunts his family.Furthermore, Roderick's deteriorating mental health plays a significant role in his decision to end his own life. Throughout the episode, Roderick's dementia is highlighted, and it becomes increasingly evident that he is losing touch with reality. He experiences hallucinations, conversations with imaginary beings, and struggles to separate fact from fiction. Roderick's mental instability compounds his feelings of despair and hopelessness, making suicide seem like a viable option to escape his inner torment.In conclusion, Roderick's decision to kill himself in "The Pit and the Pendulum" is influenced by various factors, including betrayal, loss, dark secrets, and his deteriorating mental health. These elements combine to create a sense of despair and hopelessness in Roderick's life, leading him to believe that suicide is the only way to escape his suffering. The episode portrays the tragic consequences of Roderick's actions and the devastating impact they have on the Usher family's legacy.