American Romanticism: Edgar Allan Poe

Explanation
American Romanticism promotes imagination because this literary and artistic movement emphasized the power of the individual's imagination and emotions. Romantic writers and artists believed in the importance of expressing personal feelings and experiences, and they often used vivid and imaginative language to convey their ideas. They rejected the strict rationality and logic of the Enlightenment period and instead embraced the beauty and power of the imagination to explore the depths of human emotions and the natural world.

Explanation
The common thread incorporated throughout a work of literature is the theme. A theme is the central idea or message that the author wants to convey to the reader. It is a recurring or underlying concept that can be found throughout the entire work. Unlike symbols, which are specific objects or images that represent deeper meanings, or meter, which refers to the rhythmic structure of a poem, or motifs, which are recurring elements or symbols in a work, the theme is the overall message or moral of the story that ties everything together.

Explanation
In "The Black Cat," masquerade is not a motif because it does not play a significant role or recurring theme in the story. The story primarily focuses on themes of guilt, madness, and the narrator's descent into violence. Masquerade, on the other hand, refers to a disguise or costume party, which is not present in the plot or symbolism of "The Black Cat."

Explanation
In this quote, Poe expresses his desire to write in a mysterious manner. Cats are often associated with mystery and enigma due to their secretive and independent nature. They are known for their ability to move silently and their unpredictable behavior, which adds to their mysterious aura. Therefore, the correct answer is "Cat."

Explanation
The Gothic genre combines elements of horror and romance. This genre typically includes elements of supernatural occurrences, dark settings, and mysterious events, which contribute to the horror aspect. At the same time, it also incorporates elements of romance, such as intense emotions, forbidden love, and passionate relationships. The combination of these two genres creates a unique blend of fear and desire, creating a captivating and often haunting narrative.