Humorous Analysis Of ' The Cask Of Amontillado ' By Edgar Allan Poe

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Ironic Revenge in “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe Edgar Allan Poe is one of the most recognized and praised fiction writers in world literature. Not only does he masterfully create the atmosphere of suspense and danger in his short stories, he also builds up a sophisticated blend of horror and elegant irony that haunts the reader and reveals the complexity of Poe’s literary talent. “The Cask of Amontillado” is a perfect example of such combination. In this twisted short story of revenge, Poe puts an emphasis on the ironic tone in order to highlight the relationship between Montresor and his victim Fortunato and reveal the evil nature of Montresor’s desire for cruel vengeance. The plot of “The Cask of Amontillado” is fairly…show more content…
Such a sharp contrast between the atmosphere of happiness and the growing tension between the characters comprises Poe’s ironic tone in the story. The dialogues between the two men and the opposition of their characters as well reveal the leitmotif of irony throughout the story. Montresor offers various hints and observations with a hidden meaning to his victim, and Fortunato’s ignorant reaction to them creates the impression of innocent mockery that only adds to the tension between the antagonists. The heraldic emblem of Montresor’s family presents the central object of irony in the conversation between the men (Stepp 447). For instance, when Montresor refers to his to his family heritage, Fortunato does not understand his enemy’s implication behind the family motto: “– And the motto? – Nemo me impune lacessit. – Good!” he said. (Poe 164) The men’s further discussion of Masons also bears an ironic context when Montresor shows his trowel as a proof of his Mason membership. This pun as well hints at Montresor’s intention to bury Fortunato inside the vaults. Nevertheless, the victim stays oblivious to the plans of his murderer. It is worth mentioning that even Fortunato’s name, translated as “lucky” or “fortunate” underlines his tragic destiny and contributes to
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