Haunting Confession of Vengeance and Murder “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe is a horror story about revenge and murder occurred half a century ago. Through narrator Montresor's haunting confession, the reader can feel what Fortunato endured half a century ago. In this tale of revenge and murder, the dark, damp, bone-filled catacombs contrast with life during “carnival madness” (553). Through the actions, thoughts, and words of the Montresor protagonists, the reader is able to sense the psychological torment that Fortunato is about to endure. The first line of the Montresor story says: "I had borne Fortunato's thousand wounds as best I could, but when he ventured to insult him, I swore revenge" (553). Revenge remains a constant theme throughout the story. Montresor went to great lengths to plan revenge and the murder of Fortunato. He knows that during the carnival everyone will be dressed up, masked and drinking. No one will be able to recognize them. Montresor himself dons a “black silk mask” (554) and a “roquelaire” (554). He also made sure that his servants would not be at home, to be sure that there would be no witnesses to his horrible act. Almost everything Montresor says is ironic. He says exactly the opposite of what he means. He continues to inquire about Fortunato's health, Fortunato says that he "will not die of a cough" (554). Montresor agrees with him, he knows what Fortunato's death will ultimately be like. Montresor sneakily leads Fortunato to the vaults “down the long, winding staircase, asking him to be careful” (554). Montresor opens a bottle of wine and toasts his friend’s “long life” (555). As for...... middle of paper......false” (33). Montresor inquired about Fortunato's health throughout his walk to the catacombs. It's too late for him to change his mind, all he has to do is lock him up. Poe creates a horror story about a psychological revenge and murder that happened fifty years ago. Montresor is able to remember the details of his crime with clarity. Does he have remorse for what he did to Fortunato? The reader might think that yes, Montresor seems to be making a haunting confession from his deathbed. The last thing Montresor says to Fortunato is “In pace requiescat” which means “In peace may he rest” (557)! This is what Montresor wants for himself, which is why he confesses his sins. Works Cited Poe, Edgar Allan. “The barrel of Amontillado.” Read and write about literature. Philippe Sipiora. New Jersey: Pearson Education, 2008.