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Analysis Of Montresor In Edgar Allen Poe's The Cask Of Amontillado

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What do all the great murderers of history have in common? Aside from being savagely violent, they are all diligent, attentive, and meticulous in their work. Montresor from Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Cask of Amontillado” is no different. This story, told from Montresor’s point of view, illustrates the murderer’s madness through his killing of Fortunato. Throughout the story, Montresor’s true nature is revealed in how he manipulates Fortunato, justifies his sinister actions, and lacks remorse for his murderous revenge. Montresor first reveals his inner self through his manipulation of Fortunato. This manipulation is not only extremely well-thought out and timed, it is also very careful and thorough. Poe begins to reveal Montresor’s manipulative psychology when Montresor meets Fortunato at a carnival party. “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’” (116). This statement, carefully crafted by Montresor, is made to interest Fortunato into entering his wine vaults. Fortunato, a wine connoisseur, becomes immediately disinterested in the party and now only wants to inspect Montresor’s supposed Amontillado. Montresor and Fortunato then enter Montresor’s catacombs. Poe continues to exhibit Montresor’s manipulative nature as Montresor and Fortunato continue further and deeper into the dark, damp vaults. “’Come,’ I said, with decision, ‘we will go

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