Characters
Who is Fortunato?
the man that Montresor is trying to kill
What is the significance of the carnival setting?
It allows them to wear masks and hide their identities. It also is happy in contrast to the dark mood of the story.
What is the mood at the beginning of the story?
What does the word "fettered" mean?
chained
What time of year does the story take place?
Carnival season
How does Fortunato's demeanor change throughout the story?
He becomes intoxicated
What literary device is used when Montresor says, “I must not only punish, but punish with impunity”?
foreshadowing
Name a specific event that creates tension.
Montresor telling Fortunato to turn back because of his cold.
Him getting Fortunato drunk.
etc.
What does Amontillado refer to?
a case of wine
Where did Montresor lead Fortunato
To the catacombs, underground cemeteries
What does Fortunato pride himself on?
He knows a lot about wine
How does Poe use symbolism in the story? Hint: think of objects in the story
Catacombs: death and darkness
Jester costume: foolishness
Amontillado: revenge
How does the mood change throughout the story?
suspenseful to mysterious to scary, to creepy, etc.
What is the meaning of "ornamented"? Hint: think of the word ornament
decorated
Describe the conditions of the catacombs.
moldy, dark, damp, full of dead bodies, wine cases, etc.
What motivates Montresor's actions against Fortunato?
Fortunato has somehow insulted him
Identify an example of irony in the story.
Any time Montresor says something he doesn't actually mean.
What elements contribute to the suspense? What makes it suspenseful?
Montresor foreshadowing the murder.
The long walk to the Amontillado.
Fortunato doesn't know what is going to happen to him.
What does recess mean in this section: "Withdrawing the key I stepped back from the recess. I looked at the enclosure with pure hatred."
a small space created by a wall
What is the significance of the wine? What is it purpose in the story?
Who is the narrator of the story?
Montresor
Describe the overall mood from the story.
Give the definition of mood.
Mood is how the reader feels while reading a story
What is the "nitre" that is in the catacombs? Hint: What grows in damp places?
moss or mold
BONUS: What is Montresor's family motto?
Nemo me impune lacessit