Connoisseurs often state how “wine improves with age”. Although the process of aging may alter the flavor compounds, texture, or color of the beverage, one cannot predict improvement nor deterioration. Centuries have passed since Edgar Allan Poe describes the death of a gullible fool, yet the taste of a murderer’s Amontillado wine remains bittersweet. Although the work is fictional, “The Cask of Amontillado” provides a realistic, emotional, and dismal libretto, depicted as a tale of revenge and a murder in cold blood. Through the use of symbolism, theological allusion, and foreshadowing, Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Cask of Amontillado” informs the reader that seeking revenge upon enemies proves as consequential as alcohol-influenced intoxication.
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There came forth in reply only a jingling of the bells” (Poe). The flames engulfing Fortunato physically - and Montresor emotionally - radiates a wicked tone. Consequently, the murder of Fortunato unveils an unexpected outcome and shift in Montresor’s emotions. The sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill”, is present as Montresor endures a moral dilemma (King James Version, Exod. 20.13). The plight of seeking revenge on Fortunato erupted a man versus self-conflict, yet he chooses to fulfill his murderous scheme. After Montresor completes the task, a strong sense of guilt emerges, and the satisfaction he anticipated from seeking revenge does not occur. The intentions and emotions conveyed by Montresor suggests to the reader he portrays the qualities of both a static and dynamic character. The static aspects arise from Montresor’s decision to pursue murdering Fortunato, regardless of his emotions and apprehension. Montresor attempted to discourage Fortunato from entering the vaults using multiple methods, yet Fortunato’s stubborn nature and intoxication prevented him from doing so. In contrast, the austere, firm, nature of Montresor mellows as he ventures further into the vaults. He displays empathy toward Fortunato as he reflects upon the consequences of murder; however, Montresor expresses guilt and sympathy as he returns to broad daylight. To conclude the story, Montresor states “for the half of a century no mortal has disturbed [the remains of Fortunato]” (Poe). Montresor’s explanation of the murder allows the reader to understand he successfully concealed a murder. Despite a physical relief, Montresor bore emotional baggage, and paid tribute to Fortunato by exclaiming “in pace requiescat!”, meaning “may he rest in peace” in Latin
There came forth in reply only a jingling of the bells” (Poe). The flames engulfing Fortunato physically - and Montresor emotionally - radiates a wicked tone. Consequently, the murder of Fortunato unveils an unexpected outcome and shift in Montresor’s emotions. The sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill”, is present as Montresor endures a moral dilemma (King James Version, Exod. 20.13). The plight of seeking revenge on Fortunato erupted a man versus self-conflict, yet he chooses to fulfill his murderous scheme. After Montresor completes the task, a strong sense of guilt emerges, and the satisfaction he anticipated from seeking revenge does not occur. The intentions and emotions conveyed by Montresor suggests to the reader he portrays the qualities of both a static and dynamic character. The static aspects arise from Montresor’s decision to pursue murdering Fortunato, regardless of his emotions and apprehension. Montresor attempted to discourage Fortunato from entering the vaults using multiple methods, yet Fortunato’s stubborn nature and intoxication prevented him from doing so. In contrast, the austere, firm, nature of Montresor mellows as he ventures further into the vaults. He displays empathy toward Fortunato as he reflects upon the consequences of murder; however, Montresor expresses guilt and sympathy as he returns to broad daylight. To conclude the story, Montresor states “for the half of a century no mortal has disturbed [the remains of Fortunato]” (Poe). Montresor’s explanation of the murder allows the reader to understand he successfully concealed a murder. Despite a physical relief, Montresor bore emotional baggage, and paid tribute to Fortunato by exclaiming “in pace requiescat!”, meaning “may he rest in peace” in Latin