Reading Pointers for Sharper Insights

As you read “The Cask of Amontillado” be aware of the following:

Setting:

The winding catacombs with their damp, musty walls, the smell of death, and generally unhealthy conditions contribute to the mood and theme of the story.

Point of View:

• Because the story is written in first person, Poe intensifies the revenge-driven personality of Montresor.

• Montresor may not be a reliable or accurate narrator.

• Much of Poe's talent and popularity come from his singular focus on one main idea or effect. Every detail leads to the climax of the story.

Symbols:

• Clown costume – This is appropriate attire for someone who is going to be a fool because of pride.

• Coat of Arms – Montresor's Coat of Arms symbolizes what happens to those who deal unfairly with his family.

• Fortunato – The name symbolizes how his friends and family view him, but it is ironic in relation to the story.

Unique Elements in Poe's Story:

• Fear and suspense begin to build as soon as Montresor and Fortunato meet. Be aware of the various techniques that Poe uses to heighten these emotions.

• Although the name Fortunato means fortunate and lucky, his fate is anything but that.

• When Fortunato says that he will not die of a cough, Montresor agrees with him.

• • The pun on the word mason revolves around both the Brotherhood of Masons and bricklayer masons.