Nicholas Chuilli Ms.

Jacobs ENC 1102 3 April 2014 Psychoanalytic Criticism and Analysis of Setting and Symbolism in The Cask of Amontillado In the dark tales of Edgar Allen Poe, there is always more than meets the eye. In The Cask of Amontillado, a nobleman named Fortunato is lured to his death by a seemingly unmotivated adversary, Montresor. Baraban points out that many would simply assume Montresor is insane; a killer without reason. Baraban then goes on to mention that Montresor is exacting revenge on Fortunato, but for what is seemingly unknown. If the text is examined closely one can follow clues Poe included which reveal the motive for Fortunatos murder. Through analysis of setting, various symbols, and psychological factors one can uncover the mystery of why Montresor killed Fortunato. In The Cask of Amontillado, Montresor leaves many hints that he plans to kill Fortunato at the end of their journey through the catacombs. With the first person narration through the eyes of Montresor it can clearly be seen what he is thinking and observing as he leads Fortunato. He gains his trust and revere even as the two proceed to the supposed cask waiting at the end of the catacomb, which itself is symbolic of Fortunatos fate due to how Amontillado is produced. Montresor even reveals he is carrying a trowel at one point when questioned by Fortunato if he is a member of the Masons. To him it is his instrument of revenge, but to Fortunato it is seen as another reason to trust Montresor. The setting of a Carnival in Renaissance Europe also leaves many opportunities for symbols to be used. The two are even dressed in costumes throughout the story, Fortunato a fool and Montresor an executioner, both of them literally wearing their inner selves. With the unique combination of first person narration and a very symbolic time period, The Cask of Amontillado is a prime candidate for psychological criticism.