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The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe

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Symbolism is the use of objects to represent ideas or qualities in the story. In the story many things are used as symbols such as the actual cask of amontillado, the trowel, the jester costume and the setting in which there is two in the story. Another literary technique used significantly in the story is irony. Irony is the expression of ones meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite.

In the short story “The Cask of Amontillado,” Montresor a very troubled man who plans to seek revenge on another man named Fortunato for humiliating him. He presents us with a brief understanding of his motive on why he must kill Fortunato. It is carnival and Montresor spots Fortunato and approaches him to discuss about amontillado. While discussing about the amontillado, Montresor has convinced Fortunato to go with him to his vaults located in the catacombs where he claims to have the amontillado. As they make their way towards the catacombs, Montresor made sure that his servants would not be present at the time. Entering the catacombs Montresor notices the coughing of Fotunato because of the dampness and nitre. Halfway through the catacombs Montresor gives Fortunato some wine called Medoc to help with his cough and get him intoxicated. Montresor insists they turn and go back, but Fortunato’s stubbornness keeps him wanting to try the Amontillado. Montresor finally reaches his destination and makes his move on Fortunato. Throughout the story you will find

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