Theme Of Verbal Irony In The Cask Of Amontillado

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In “The Cask of Amontillado”, written by Edgar Allan Poe, Fortunato is on the verge of discovering exactly what can happen when trust becomes scarce even amongst those considered to be friends. Montresor outwardly appears friendly with Fortunato, deep down he feels nothing but hate for the other man. Both of these men are proud and opulent, and yet they both have a means of ruination that will eventually lead to tragedy. Edgar Allan Poe’s use of language amplifies and contorts the perception of the way that the two men react to eachother due to the situation. Although the two men are perceived differently, they both want to satiate their desire for retribution. Poe has eloquently presented various literary elements through the use of irony
Two poignant examples of dramatic irony occur when Montresor approaches the intoxicated Fortunato the evening of the carnival. Montresor eagerly capitalizes on his friend’s pitiful state. Poe enhances the dramatic effect by naming the character Fortunato, which means, one of great fortune. The irony becomes apparent once Fortunato’s unfortunate fate is revealed. Poe’s use of verbal irony is witnessed when Montresor suggests that perhaps his friend should head home due to his cough, Fortunato’s responds “I shall not die of a cough.” Montresor knowingly replies, "True –true.” (Poe). In another use of verbal irony, Fortunato uses the word 'Ignoramus ' to describe Luchresi; however, it is he who is truly ignorant of his surroundings and his impending demise. Montresor has provided Fortunato various opportunities to leave unharmed; however, due to his intoxication, Fortunato fails to see the dangerous implications that Montresor had provided for
The depiction on the crest can be considered to represent the relationship between Montresor and Fortunato. Although the serpent found on Montresor 's crest is being stepped on, it is the serpent that will eventually cause lasting harm. In addition, the motto displayed on the crest, “Nemo me impune laccessit.” (Poe) reinforces that those who impune his dignity will pay recompense. The title itself serves as a symbolic element in the story; “The Cask of Amontillado” has both a literal and a figurative meaning. A cask is a container in which wine is stored, and Amontillado is a wine that Fortunato desires to taste. Due to Fortunato’s curiosity, he ends up in the catacombs where his body will be stored in a cask made specifically for him. The Amontillado symbolizes Montresor 's success. He was successful in deceiving Fortunato, and executing his plan of vengeance against the man that he believes has snubbed his

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