illustration of Fortunato standing in motley behind a mostly completed brick wall with a skull superimposed on the wall where his face should be

The Cask of Amontillado

by Edgar Allan Poe

Start Free Trial

The Cask of Amontillado Questions on Carnival

The Cask of Amontillado Study Tools

Take a quiz Ask a question Start an essay

The Cask of Amontillado

"The Cask of Amontillado" explores themes of revenge, pride, and deception. The story delves into the dark consequences of revenge as Montresor meticulously plans and executes his plot against...

8 educator answers

The Cask of Amontillado

In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado," the carnival setting is ironic because it contrasts the festive, carefree atmosphere with the dark act of revenge plotted by Montresor. During this...

10 educator answers

The Cask of Amontillado

Montresor wears a black mask and cape to remain inconspicuous during the carnival and symbolize death, aligning with his sinister intentions. The black attire allows him to lure Fortunato into the...

4 educator answers

The Cask of Amontillado

Montresor did not have to kill Fortunato during the carnival season, but the chaos and distractions of the event made his plan easier to execute. He aimed to "punish with impunity," meaning he wanted...

1 educator answer

The Cask of Amontillado

The first of these statements are inferred in "The Cask of Amontillado." It is inferred that Montresor and Fortunato wear costumes because it is carnival time, Montresor uses his costume to escape...

1 educator answer

The Cask of Amontillado

Poe juxtaposes the dreariness of the catacombs with the festivity of the Carnival to heighten the story's horror and illustrate the contrasting natures of Montresor and Fortunato. The lively Carnival...

6 educator answers

The Cask of Amontillado

The irony of the murder's timing in "The Cask of Amontillado" lies in its occurrence during the carnival season, a time associated with celebration and festivity. Fortunato, dressed as a jester, is...

2 educator answers

The Cask of Amontillado

The sentence from "The Cask of Amontillado" marks the beginning of the story's direct action, following initial exposition. It describes Montresor encountering his friend Fortunato at dusk during...

1 educator answer

The Cask of Amontillado

Montresor reacts to seeing Fortunato on the street during carnival by enthusiastically shaking his hand, feigning happiness. His joy is not genuine, but stems from finding the perfect opportunity to...

1 educator answer

The Cask of Amontillado

In "The Cask of Amontillado," it is convenient for Montresor that his attendants are away celebrating carnival because it ensures there are no witnesses to his actions. Montresor deliberately...

1 educator answer