'The Cask Of Amontillado' by Edgar Allen Poe

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THE thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could, but when he ventured upon insult I vowed revenge. You, who so well know the nature of my soul, will not suppose, however, that gave utterance to a threat. At length I would be avenged; this was a point definitely, settled --but the very definitiveness with which it was resolved precluded the idea of risk. I must not only punish but punish with impunity. A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser. It is equally unredressed when the avenger fails to make himself felt as such to him who has done the wrong.
It must be understood that neither by word nor deed had I given Fortunato cause to doubt my good will. I continued, as was my in to smile in his face, and he did not perceive that my to smile now was at the thought of his immolation.
He had a weak point --this Fortunato --although in other regards he was a man to be respected and even feared. He prided himself on his connoisseurship in wine. Few Italians have the true virtuoso spirit. For the most part their enthusiasm is adopted to suit the time and opportunity, to practise imposture upon the British and Austrian millionaires. In painting and gemmary, Fortunato, like his countrymen, was a quack, but in the matter of old wines he was sincere. In this respect I did not differ from him materially; --I was skilful in the Italian vintages myself, and bought largely whenever I could.
It was about dusk, one evening during the supreme madness of the carnival season, that I encountered my friend. He accosted me with excessive warmth, for he had been drinking much. The man wore motley. He had on a tight-fitting parti-striped dress, and his head was surmounted by the conical cap and bells. I was so pleased to see him that I thought I should never have done wringing his hand.
I said to him --"My dear Fortunato, you are luckily met. How remarkably well you are looking to-day. But I have received a pipe of what passes for Amontillado, and I have my doubts."
"How?" said he. "Amontillado, A pipe? Impossible! And in the middle of the carnival!"
"I have my doubts," I replied; "and I was silly enough to pay the full Amontillado price without consulting you in the matter. You were not to be found, and I was fearful of losing a bargain."
"Amontillado!"
"I have my doubts."
"Amontillado!"
"And I must satisfy them."
"Amontillado!"
"As you are engaged, I am on my way to Luchresi. If any one has a critical turn it is he. He will tell me --"
"Luchresi cannot tell Amontillado from Sherry."
"And yet some fools will have it that his taste is a match for your own.
"Come, let us go."
"Whither?"
"To your vaults."
"My friend, no; I will not impose upon your good nature. I perceive you have an engagement. Luchresi--"
"I have no engagement; --come."
"My friend, no. It is not the engagement, but the severe cold with which I perceive you are afflicted. The vaults are insufferably damp. They are encrusted with nitre."
"Let us go, nevertheless. The cold is merely nothing. Amontillado! You have been imposed upon. And as for Luchresi, he cannot distinguish Sherry from Amontillado."
Thus speaking, Fortunato possessed himself of my arm; and putting on a mask of black silk and drawing a roquelaire closely about my person, I suffered him to hurry me to my palazzo.
There were no attendants at home; they had absconded to make merry in honour of the time. I had told them that I should not return until the morning, and had given them explicit orders not to stir from the house. These orders were sufficient, I well knew, to insure their immediate disappearance, one and all, as soon as my back was turned.
I took from their sconces two flambeaux, and giving one to Fortunato, bowed him through several suites of rooms to the archway that led into the vaults. I passed down a long and winding staircase, requesting him to be cautious as he followed. We came at length to the foot of the descent, and stood together upon the damp ground of the catacombs of the Montresors.
The gait of my friend was unsteady, and the bells upon his cap jingled as he strode.
"The pipe," he said.
"It is farther on," said I; "but observe the white web-work which gleams from these cavern walls."
He turned towards me, and looked into my eves with two filmy orbs that distilled the rheum of intoxication.
"Nitre?" he asked, at length.
"Nitre," I replied. "How long have you had that cough?"
"Ugh! ugh! ugh! --ugh! ugh! ugh! --ugh! ugh! ugh! --ugh! ugh! ugh! --ugh! ugh! ugh!"
My poor friend found it impossible to reply for many minutes.
"It is nothing," he said, at last.
"Come," I said, with decision, "we will go back; your health is precious. You are rich, respected, admired, beloved; you are happy, as once I was. You are a man to be missed. For me it is no matter. We will go back; you will be ill, and I cannot be responsible. Besides, there is Luchresi --"
"Enough," he said; "the cough's a mere nothing; it will not kill me. I shall not die of a cough."
"True --true," I replied; "and, indeed, I had no intention of alarming you unnecessarily --but you should use all proper caution. A draught of this Medoc will defend us from the damps.
Here I knocked off the neck of a bottle which I drew from a long row of its fellows that lay upon the mould.
"Drink," I said, presenting him the wine.
He raised it to his lips with a leer. He paused and nodded to me familiarly, while his bells jingled.
"I drink," he said, "to the buried that repose around us."
"And I to your long life."
He again took my arm, and we proceeded.
"These vaults," he said, "are extensive."
"The Montresors," I replied, "were a great and numerous family."
"I forget your arms."
"A huge human foot d'or, in a field azure; the foot crushes a serpent rampant whose fangs are imbedded in the heel."
"And the motto?"
"Nemo me impune lacessit."
"Good!" he said.
The wine sparkled in his eyes and the bells jingled. My own fancy grew warm with the Medoc. We had passed through long walls of piled skeletons, with casks and puncheons intermingling, into the inmost recesses of the catacombs. I paused again, and this time I made bold to seize Fortunato by an arm above the elbow.
"The nitre!" I said; "see, it increases. It hangs like moss upon the vaults. We are below the river's bed. The drops of moisture trickle among the bones. Come, we will go back ere it is too late. Your cough --"
"It is nothing," he said; "let us go on. But first, another draught of the Medoc."
I broke and reached him a flagon of De Grave. He emptied it at a breath. His eyes flashed with a fierce light. He laughed and threw the bottle upwards with a gesticulation I did not understand.
I looked at him in surprise. He repeated the movement --a grotesque one.
"You do not comprehend?" he said.
"Not I," I replied.
"Then you are not of the brotherhood."
"How?"
"You are not of the masons."
"Yes, yes," I said; "yes, yes."
"You? Impossible! A mason?"
"A mason," I replied.
"A sign," he said, "a sign."
"It is this," I answered, producing from beneath the folds of my roquelaire a trowel.
"You jest," he exclaimed, recoiling a few paces. "But let us proceed to the Amontillado."
"Be it so," I said, replacing the tool beneath the cloak and again offering him my arm. He leaned upon it heavily. We continued our route in search of the Amontillado. We passed through a range of low arches, descended, passed on, and descending again, arrived at a deep crypt, in which the foulness of the air caused our flambeaux rather to glow than flame.
At the most remote end of the crypt there appeared another less spacious. Its walls had been lined with human remains, piled to the vault overhead, in the fashion of the great catacombs of Paris. Three sides of this interior crypt were still ornamented in this manner. From the fourth side the bones had been thrown down, and lay promiscuously upon the earth, forming at one point a mound of some size. Within the wall thus exposed by the displacing of the bones, we perceived a still interior crypt or recess, in depth about four feet, in width three, in height six or seven. It seemed to have been constructed for no especial use within itself, but formed merely the interval between two of the colossal supports of the roof of the catacombs, and was backed by one of their circumscribing walls of solid granite.
It was in vain that Fortunato, uplifting his dull torch, endeavoured to pry into the depth of the recess. Its termination the feeble light did not enable us to see.
"Proceed," I said; "herein is the Amontillado. As for Luchresi --"
"He is an ignoramus," interrupted my friend, as he stepped unsteadily forward, while I followed immediately at his heels. In niche, and finding an instant he had reached the extremity of the niche, and finding his progress arrested by the rock, stood stupidly bewildered. A moment more and I had fettered him to the granite. In its surface were two iron staples, distant from each other about two feet, horizontally. From one of these depended a short chain, from the other a padlock. Throwing the links about his waist, it was but the work of a few seconds to secure it. He was too much astounded to resist. Withdrawing the key I stepped back from the recess.
"Pass your hand," I said, "over the wall; you cannot help feeling the nitre. Indeed, it is very damp. Once more let me implore you to return. No? Then I must positively leave you. But I must first render you all the little attentions in my power."
"The Amontillado!" ejaculated my friend, not yet recovered from his astonishment.
"True," I replied; "the Amontillado."
As I said these words I busied myself among the pile of bones of which I have before spoken. Throwing them aside, I soon uncovered a quantity of building stone and mortar. With these materials and with the aid of my trowel, I began vigorously to wall up the entrance of the niche.
I had scarcely laid the first tier of the masonry when I discovered that the intoxication of Fortunato had in a great measure worn off. The earliest indication I had of this was a low moaning cry from the depth of the recess. It was not the cry of a drunken man. There was then a long and obstinate silence. I laid the second tier, and the third, and the fourth; and then I heard the furious vibrations of the chain. The noise lasted for several minutes, during which, that I might hearken to it with the more satisfaction, I ceased my labours and sat down upon the bones. When at last the clanking subsided, I resumed the trowel, and finished without interruption the fifth, the sixth, and the seventh tier. The wall was now nearly upon a level with my breast. I again paused, and holding the flambeaux over the mason-work, threw a few feeble rays upon the figure within.
A succession of loud and shrill screams, bursting suddenly from the throat of the chained form, seemed to thrust me violently back. For a brief moment I hesitated, I trembled. Unsheathing my rapier, I began to grope with it about the recess; but the thought of an instant reassured me. I placed my hand upon the solid fabric of the catacombs, and felt satisfied. I reapproached the wall; I replied to the yells of him who clamoured. I re-echoed, I aided, I surpassed them in volume and in strength. I did this, and the clamourer grew still.
It was now midnight, and my task was drawing to a close. I had completed the eighth, the ninth and the tenth tier. I had finished a portion of the last and the eleventh; there remained but a single stone to be fitted and plastered in. I struggled with its weight; I placed it partially in its destined position. But now there came from out the niche a low laugh that erected the hairs upon my head. It was succeeded by a sad voice, which I had difficulty in recognizing as that of the noble Fortunato. The voice said--
"Ha! ha! ha! --he! he! he! --a very good joke, indeed --an excellent jest. We will have many a rich laugh about it at the palazzo --he! he! he! --over our wine --he! he! he!"
"The Amontillado!" I said.
"He! he! he! --he! he! he! --yes, the Amontillado. But is it not getting late? Will not they be awaiting us at the palazzo, the Lady Fortunato and the rest? Let us be gone."
"Yes," I said, "let us be gone."
"For the love of God, Montresor!"
"Yes," I said, "for the love of God!"
But to these words I hearkened in vain for a reply. I grew impatient. I called aloud --
"Fortunato!"
No answer. I called again --
"Fortunato!"
No answer still. I thrust a torch through the remaining aperture and let it fall within. There came forth in return only a jingling of the bells. My heart grew sick; it was the dampness of the catacombs that made it so. I hastened to make an end of my labour. I forced the last stone into its position; I plastered it up. Against the new masonry I re-erected the old rampart of bones. For the half of a century no mortal has disturbed them. In pace requiescat!

Editor 1 Interpretation

The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allen Poe

The Cask of Amontillado is a short story written by Edgar Allen Poe, that tells the tale of Montresor, a man who seeks revenge on his friend Fortunato, for wrongs he believes have been done to him. The story is set in Italy during the carnival season, where Montresor invites Fortunato to his family catacombs to taste a rare wine called Amontillado. However, things take a dark turn as Montresor's true intentions are revealed, and the story ends with a chilling twist.

The Theme of Revenge

One of the most prominent themes in The Cask of Amontillado is that of revenge. Montresor's desire for revenge against Fortunato is what drives the plot of the story. As the story begins, we are not told what specifically Fortunato has done to Montresor. Instead, we are left to wonder what motivates Montresor's actions. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Montresor's desire for revenge is all-consuming.

"The thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could, but when he ventured upon insult, I vowed revenge."

These words, spoken by Montresor at the beginning of the story, set the tone for what is to come. It is clear that Montresor has been wronged by Fortunato, and he is determined to make him pay. The fact that Montresor never reveals what specifically Fortunato has done to him adds to the mystery of the story. We are left to wonder what could possibly have happened to make Montresor so consumed with revenge.

The Role of Irony

One of the most interesting aspects of The Cask of Amontillado is the use of irony throughout the story. Irony is a literary device that involves a contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually happens. The use of irony in The Cask of Amontillado is what makes the story so memorable.

For example, Montresor repeatedly refers to Fortunato as his friend throughout the story. However, it is clear that Montresor has no intention of being friendly with Fortunato. In fact, Montresor's true intentions are to seek revenge against Fortunato. The fact that Montresor refers to Fortunato as his friend is ironic because a true friend would never seek revenge against someone they cared about.

Another example of irony in the story is the fact that Fortunato is a wine expert who prides himself on his knowledge of rare wines. However, it is his love of wine that ultimately leads to his downfall. Fortunato's desire to taste the Amontillado is what leads him deeper into the catacombs, and ultimately to his death.

The Use of Symbolism

The Cask of Amontillado is also filled with symbolism. Symbolism is a literary device that involves the use of symbols to represent a deeper meaning. In The Cask of Amontillado, the use of symbolism adds to the dark and eerie tone of the story.

For example, the family catacombs are a symbol of death and decay. The fact that Montresor leads Fortunato deeper into the catacombs is a symbolic representation of Fortunato's descent into darkness. As Fortunato gets closer to his death, the atmosphere becomes more and more eerie, with the sound of trowels echoing through the caverns.

The Amontillado itself is also a symbol in the story. It represents Montresor's desire for revenge. The fact that Montresor uses the rare wine to lure Fortunato deeper into the catacombs is symbolic of the way in which revenge can be all-consuming.

The Importance of Point of View

The Cask of Amontillado is told from Montresor's point of view. This is important because it allows the reader to see the story from the perspective of the person seeking revenge. By seeing the story through Montresor's eyes, we are able to understand the depth of his desire for revenge.

However, it is also important to note that Montresor is an unreliable narrator. He is clearly not a trustworthy character, and we cannot be sure that everything he is telling us is true. This adds to the mystery of the story, and leaves the reader wondering what really happened between Montresor and Fortunato.

The Chilling Twist

The ending of The Cask of Amontillado is perhaps one of the most memorable in all of literature. Just as Fortunato realizes that he has been lured into a trap, Montresor seals him inside the catacombs, leaving him to die a slow and painful death. The last words we hear from Fortunato are "For the love of God, Montresor!".

The final twist in the story is that Montresor has gotten away with his crime, and is able to live out the rest of his life without anyone suspecting what he has done. This chilling twist is what makes The Cask of Amontillado such a memorable and haunting story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Cask of Amontillado is a masterful work of fiction that uses a combination of revenge, irony, symbolism, and point of view to create a chilling and memorable story. Edgar Allen Poe's use of language and imagery is both eerie and captivating, and the ending of the story is sure to leave a lasting impression on any reader. The Cask of Amontillado is a classic piece of literature that should be read by anyone who loves a good story filled with mystery, suspense, and revenge.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

The Cask of Amontillado: A Masterpiece of Suspense and Revenge

Edgar Allan Poe is a master of the macabre, and his short story, The Cask of Amontillado, is a perfect example of his talent for creating suspense and horror. The story is set in Italy during the carnival season, and it tells the tale of a man named Montresor who seeks revenge against his friend Fortunato. The story is a classic example of Poe's style, with its dark and foreboding atmosphere, its use of symbolism, and its exploration of the human psyche.

The story begins with Montresor explaining that he has been insulted by Fortunato, and that he plans to seek revenge. He lures Fortunato into the catacombs beneath his palazzo, where he has promised to show him a cask of rare Amontillado wine. Fortunato, who is a wine connoisseur, is eager to taste the wine, and he follows Montresor into the dark and damp catacombs.

As they descend deeper into the catacombs, the atmosphere becomes more and more ominous. The air is damp and musty, and the walls are covered in bones and skulls. Montresor offers Fortunato a glass of Medoc wine to keep him warm, but Fortunato is more interested in the Amontillado. As they continue on, Montresor begins to lay the groundwork for his revenge. He tells Fortunato that he is worried about his health, and that they should turn back. But Fortunato is determined to taste the Amontillado, and he insists on continuing.

As they reach the end of the catacombs, Montresor reveals the cask of Amontillado. Fortunato is overjoyed, and he eagerly tastes the wine. But as he drinks, he begins to feel dizzy and disoriented. Montresor takes advantage of this, and he begins to wall up Fortunato in the catacombs. Fortunato realizes too late what is happening, and he begs for mercy. But Montresor is relentless, and he continues to wall up Fortunato until he is completely entombed.

The story ends with Montresor reflecting on his revenge. He is satisfied that he has gotten his revenge, but he is also haunted by the memory of Fortunato. He realizes that he has become a monster, and that his actions have forever changed him.

The Cask of Amontillado is a masterpiece of suspense and revenge. Poe's use of symbolism and imagery creates a dark and foreboding atmosphere that is both terrifying and captivating. The catacombs, with their bones and skulls, represent death and decay, and they serve as a reminder of the inevitability of our own mortality. The wine, which is both a symbol of pleasure and of poison, represents the duality of human nature. We are capable of both great joy and great evil, and Poe explores this theme throughout the story.

The story is also a study of the human psyche. Montresor is a complex character, and his motivations for seeking revenge are not entirely clear. He may be driven by a desire for justice, or he may simply be a sadistic monster. Either way, his actions are a reflection of the darker aspects of human nature. Fortunato, on the other hand, represents the folly of human pride. He is so eager to taste the Amontillado that he ignores the warning signs and follows Montresor into the catacombs. His arrogance and pride ultimately lead to his downfall.

The Cask of Amontillado is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers today. Its themes of revenge, mortality, and the duality of human nature are as relevant today as they were when Poe first wrote the story. It is a testament to Poe's talent as a writer that he is able to create such a powerful and haunting story in just a few short pages. The story is a reminder that we are all capable of both great good and great evil, and that our actions have consequences that can haunt us for the rest of our lives.

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