All Flashcards
How is the theme of revenge explored in 'The Cask of Amontillado'?
Montresor's meticulous planning and execution of revenge highlight the destructive nature of unchecked vengeance.
How does pride contribute to Fortunato's downfall?
Fortunato's arrogance about his wine expertise makes him vulnerable to Montresor's manipulation.
How does deception function as a theme?
Montresor's feigned friendship and hidden motives exemplify the theme of deception, leading to Fortunato's demise.
Explain the theme of manipulation.
Montresor expertly manipulates Fortunato's pride and weaknesses to lure him into the catacombs.
How does the story explore the theme of betrayal?
Montresor's betrayal of Fortunato's trust underscores the dark side of human nature.
How does the setting contribute to the theme of death?
The dark, enclosed catacombs create a claustrophobic atmosphere, foreshadowing Fortunato's impending death.
How does the carnival setting contrast with the theme of death?
The jovial carnival atmosphere sharply contrasts with the grim events unfolding, heightening the story's tension.
How does the theme of confinement manifest itself?
Fortunato's physical confinement in the niche mirrors his entrapment by Montresor's scheme.
What role does social class play in the theme of revenge?
Montresor feels entitled to revenge due to perceived social slights, reflecting class-based tensions.
How does the story explore the theme of justice?
Montresor's idea of justice is twisted, as he believes he is justified in taking revenge without legal consequences.
What motivates Montresor's actions?
A desire for revenge due to perceived insults from Fortunato.
What are Fortunato's key weaknesses?
Pride in his wine expertise and a tendency to drink excessively.
Describe Montresor's personality.
Cunning, manipulative, and vengeful, with a chillingly calm demeanor.
Describe Fortunato's personality.
Arrogant, prideful, and easily manipulated, especially when it comes to wine.
How does Montresor manipulate Fortunato?
By appealing to his pride and using reverse psychology to lure him into the catacombs.
What is significant about Montresor being an unreliable narrator?
His biased perspective shapes the story, making it difficult to know the full truth about Fortunato's actions.
How does Fortunato's costume contribute to his characterization?
His jester costume symbolizes his foolishness and vulnerability, highlighting his role as the 'fool' in Montresor's plan.
What is Montresor's family motto, and how does it relate to his actions?
'Nemo me impune lacessit' (No one attacks me with impunity) justifies his vengeful actions.
How does Fortunato's name contribute to the irony of the story?
His name means 'fortunate' in Italian, which sharply contrasts with his unfortunate fate.
What is Montresor's ultimate goal in seeking revenge?
To punish Fortunato with impunity, ensuring he understands the source of his suffering.
What does the cask of Amontillado symbolize?
It symbolizes the lure or bait used to trap Fortunato, representing his desire and ultimate downfall.
What do the catacombs symbolize?
They symbolize death, confinement, and the dark recesses of Montresor's mind.
What does Fortunato's jester costume symbolize?
It symbolizes his foolishness and vulnerability, making him an easy target for Montresor's revenge.
What does the trowel symbolize?
It symbolizes Montresor's membership in the Masons and his ability to seal Fortunato's fate.
What does the carnival setting symbolize?
It symbolizes chaos, revelry, and a temporary suspension of social norms, creating an opportunity for Montresor's plan.
What does the Montresor family crest (a foot crushing a serpent) symbolize?
It symbolizes revenge and the crushing of enemies, reflecting Montresor's vengeful nature.
What does the nitre (white salt) in the catacombs symbolize?
It symbolizes decay, death, and the unhealthy atmosphere of the catacombs.
What does wine symbolize?
It symbolizes temptation and Fortunato's weakness, which Montresor exploits.
What do the chains symbolize?
They symbolize Fortunato's entrapment and loss of freedom.
What does the act of bricking up the niche symbolize?
It symbolizes Montresor's final act of revenge and the permanent entombment of Fortunato.