Unveiling the Secrets: Mike Flanagan Explores the Sinister Seven Deadly Sins Theory in The Fall of the House of Usher

The article contains spoilers for The Fall of the House of Usher.

Summary

The Fall of the House of Usher creator Mike Flanagan recently addressed a theory on Tumblr suggesting that the Usher children symbolize the seven deadly sins.

However, Flanagan points out that Roderick actually only has six children and humorously remarks that the movie Se7en executed it more effectively.

Flanagan, the creator of The Fall of the House of Usher, dismisses the Seven Deadly Sins theory. In his previous Netflix series, before transitioning to Prime Video, Flanagan delves into overtly religious themes in Midnight Mass. The eight-episode horror-drama, based on the works of Edgar Allan Poe and receiving highly favorable feedback, revolves around the downfall of corrupt pharmaceutical CEO Roderick Usher, who tragically witnesses the gradual demise of his children following the mysterious Verna's return (played by Carla Gugino). The series is rich in references to Poe and has sparked numerous interpretations.

Flanagan addressed the notion that the children in The Fall of The House of Usher represent the Seven Deadly Sins in a recent Tumblr post. While he appreciates viewers' interpretations of the series, he clarifies that Roderick only has six children, not seven, and that he explored religious themes extensively in Midnight Mass. Additionally, Flanagan playfully acknowledges that the film Se7en already excelled at showcasing the seven deadly sins. Although he encourages analysis of his work, he admits that it wasn't his intention for the Usher kids to represent the sins in question.

Why The Seven Deadly Sins Theory Doesn't Work

The Seven Deadly Sins theory gained popularity due to its strong connection to the first major death involving Perry (Sauriyan Sapkota), which revolves around the theme of lust. Perry frequently discusses sexual topics, plans an orgy, and makes advances towards his brother's wife. His conversation with Verna also centers around lust. However, upon closer investigation, the connection becomes slightly less solid, as almost all of Roderick's children exhibit lustful behavior in some form. Furthermore, the true intention behind Perry's orgy was not solely focused on physical pleasure, but rather on gathering incriminating evidence against the prominent participants.

The theory of the Seven Deadly Sins falls short when applied to Perry and his family. Characters like Camile, Victorine, and Tammy display immense pride, refusing to compromise their values even in dire situations. Leo, on the other hand, stands out as the most compassionate among Roderick's children, despite his unfortunate fate.

Although the concept of the Seven Deadly Sins holds some value, it does not form the core of The Fall of The House of Usher. Going beyond its topicality and horrors, which bear resemblance to the notorious Sackler family, the story raises a complex question: Is it preferable to live a sheltered yet tragically short life, filled with every desire fulfilled, or to embrace a more challenging and unpredictable alternative?

Source: Mike Flanagan/Tumblr