Montresor's Use Of Verbal Irony Analysis

By examining Poe’s use of irony and sarcasm it is obvious that both are important tools that make Montresor’s scheme of retribution even more bone-chilling. Expertly inserting these devices at different points in the story they show how Montresor insults his enemy and slowly but surely brings Fortunato closer to his immolation while seeming caring and kind. Many of these can be presented as verbal irony although some of the examples have a sinister underlying tone that mock Fortunato. Examples of verbal irony that can often be takes as sarcasm can be seen in many of Montresor’s words such as when he greets Fortunato and mentions that he is luckily met, where in reality it is extremely unlucky for Fortunato due to the plot that Montresor has

set up for him. Another example of these forms of irony is when Fortunato asks if Montresor is a mason and he replies that he is. In this case Montresor actually means that he is a stoneworker not a freemason like Fortunato. This ironic statement foreshadows his plans for Fortunato and also presents dramatic irony as the reader knows more of the plot and the fate to befall him before he does. Also present in terms of irony is how Montresor constantly implores Fortunato to go back due to how precious his health is. Although not actually intending to return it provides an artful air of how calculated that this entire ordeal was, and in turn making it even more eerie. Other examples of this form of irony are just as important in creating this chilling effect such as when Montresor mentions that he is smiling at the thought of his companion’s immolation which in itself creates a creepy and unsettling effect. Thus, Poe expertly implements these devices of sarcasm and irony to create a chilling story that portrays a ghastly deed.