Edgar Allan Poe s The Cask Of Amontillado - 1803 Words

Montresor’s Insanity in Edgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† Why are people drawn to stories of the insane? Insanity is a major theme in the media; from literature, to movies, to television, even in games - many stories focus on when the frail human psyche has been pushed to its breaking point. In Edgar Allan Poe’s â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado†, Montresor relates the tale of revenge on his supposed friend, Fortunato. While everyone is out of his home and the streets are filled with the noises of the carnival, Montresor lures Fortunato to his home. He tells him he has acquired a pipe of Amontillado, and he wishes Fortunato to confirm its authenticity. Montresor plays the concerned friend, appearing worried about Fortunato’s health†¦show more content†¦Montresor knew Fortunato â€Å"had a weak point† (226), that â€Å"[h]e prided himself on his connoisseurship in wine† (226), and he used this weakness against him. He approaches Fortunato during the carnival and informs him he has â€Å"received a pipe of what passes for Amontillado† (227), but adds he has his doubts about its authenticity. He goes on to raise Fortunato above himself, by saying he â€Å"was silly enough to pay the full Amontillado price without consulting [Fortunato] in the matter† (227), ensuring Fortunato will jump at the chance to prove himself the better. To make certain Fortunato comes to his vaults that night - having guaranteed the house would be empty with yet more reverse psychology - he then makes it an urgent matter for Fortunato by igniting his jealousy. He tells Fortunato â€Å"as [he is] engaged, [Montresor is] on [his] way to Luchesi† (227). Montresor’s plan works, as Fortunato immediately protests: â€Å"Luchesi cannot tell Amontillado from Sherry.† â€Å"And yet some fools will have it that his taste is a match for your own.† â€Å"Come, let us go.† â€Å"Whither?† â€Å"To your vaults.† â€Å"My friend, no. I will not impose upon your good nature. I perceive you have an engagement. Luchesi-â€Å" â€Å"I have no Engagement; - come.† (227) Montresor again tries to convince Fortunato not to go to the vaults, but immediately mentions Luchesi knowing Fortunato could not bear to allow Luchesi to be the one to taste the Amontillado. Montresor then goes even