Montressor or Monster
In the short story, “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allen Poe, Montressor vows his revenge on Fortunato. He then lures Fortunato down to the catacombs, which is the main setting of the story, during Carnival and murders him. Appearance versus reality is a major theme in this story. In particular, Montressor appears to benevolent and kind, but in reality, his true character is nefarious and evil.
Montressor is portrayed as a great friend who cares about the wellbeing of his dear friend, Fortunato. While down in the catacombs, Fortunato is coughing hysterically and Montressor decides,”[They will go] back; [Fortunato’s] health is precious” (8). Fortunato still has a chance to go back to the carnival, but he remains with Montressor due to the desire for Amontillado. The intoxicated and gullible Fortunato does not perceive that Montressor’s true intentions are not forthcoming in any way, so he thinks it is a thought of his own welfare, he gains trust in Montressor and ventures deeper into the catacombs. Afterward, Montressor hands Fortunato the Medoc and they toast. “[Fortunato] drink[s] to the buried repose around them and [Montressor] to [Fortunato’s] long life” (9). This instance of dramatic irony shows that while Montressor says he toasts to Fortunato’s long life, Montressor is still seeking revenge. Because Fortunato does not realize that his long life is about to be cut short, he feels as if he can trust Montressor. Of course, to Fortunato, Montressor seems like a great man who cares for his interests.
The true Montressor is quite despicable in his evil plans to immolate Fortunato.
As a result of being derided, Montressor decides, “the thousand injuries of Fortunato [he] had borne as best [he] could, but when [Fortunato] ventured upon insult, [Montressor] vowed revenge” (7). Montressor does not really care about the injuries Fortunato has caused, however the insult is what is causing the revenge to occur. The...