Last Name 1
Anonymous
Prof. Alex Tavares
ENC 1102-#####
Due Date
Revenge is Bitter Sweet
A friend is someone that should be trusted, but what happens when that trust no longer exists? In “The Cask of Amontillado” written by Edgar Allan Poe, Fortunato is about to find the answer to this question. On the surface Montresor seems friendly with Frortunato, but deep down he feels nothing but hate for him. Could this hatred have an irrationality that only Montresor understands? In different ways, both of these men are proud and affluent, yet both have downfalls that will lead to a tragic ending. Edgar Allan Poe’s use of language contributes to the understanding of the dynamic between the two men. Although the two men are perceived differently, they both want the same thing; to satisfy the taste for something that has been long overdue. Poe has an eloquent way of reproducing great literary elements in the story, the theme of deception and revenge, is justified with the use of Irony and symbolism.
“THE Thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could, but when he ventured upon insult I vowed revenge” (Poe 1). The first sentence supports the theme of revenge that is present throughout the story. One example that strengthens this belief occurs when Montresor tells Fortunato about the pipe of Amontillado that he has recently purchased. Fortunato’s surprised response is not necessarily directed towards Montresor, as he believes it is, but at the thought that the wine has been bought in the midst of a carnival. However, Montresor takes this response as yet another insult to his person; subsequently, reassuring himself that the plan for revenge is reasonable. In order to accomplish his revenge, Montresor will use deception. He smiles at Fortunato even though his thoughts are evil, and he has plans of destruction. Montresor uses Luchresi in order to play with Fortunato’s head. The man, with the extensive knowledge of wine, will have to follow him to prove that he is a better choice. Montresor does not care about Fortunato or his health, yet, ironically, he speaks in a compassionate and concerning manner towards Fortunato.
Gothic fiction could not be complete without the element of irony. In “The Cask of Amontillado” irony, both dramatic and verbal, is present. According to Charles E. May, a Scholar and professor of English at California State University, “In fact, from the very beginning, every action and bit of dialogue is characterized as being just the opposite of what is explicitly stated” (Magill’s par. 1). Two poignant example of dramatic irony occurs when Montresor approaches the intoxicated Fortunado, who is dressed as a court jester, during the evening of the carnival. Montresor happily capitalizes on his friend’s state. Adding to the dramatic effect, Poe names the character Fortunato, which means, one of great fortune. The irony becomes apparent w...
