In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher,” evidence suggesting that Madeline was unhappy in her love relationship with Roderick can be intricately found in the description of her condition and the interactions between the siblings.
One poignant moment is when the narrator describes the deteriorating state of both Roderick and Madeline. Madeline’s mysterious illness symbolizes her confinement and suppression, hinting at her lack of autonomy and choice in the relationship. Roderick’s obsessive care for Madeline may stem from a place of fear rather than love, which could indicate a toxic dynamic. The text mentions Roderick’s terror of losing her, which suggests a possessive rather than a nurturing relationship.
Moreover, during the climactic scene when Madeline returns from the tomb, her unresponsive state can be interpreted as a reflection of her inner turmoil. The text describes her as a “pallid waste of beauty,” portraying her as something lifeless. This imagery supports the idea that she was not fulfilled or content in her relationship with Roderick.
Overall, while the text does not explicitly detail Madeline’s feelings, the subtext and metaphorical elements convey a sense of despair and entrapment, revealing the unhappiness that might stem from her bond with Roderick Usher.