| Author | Year | Language | Pages |
| Edgar Allan Poe | 1846 | English | 5 |
The Cask of Amontillado is a short story by Edgar Allan Poe, first published in 1846. It is a classic example of Gothic literature and showcases Poe’s mastery of the macabre and psychological horror. The story is set in an unnamed Italian city during a carnival and revolves around themes of revenge, deception, and the dark aspects of human nature.
Key Themes and Plot
The story is narrated by Montresor, who reveals his plan to take revenge on Fortunato, a man who has insulted him. Montresor lures Fortunato into the catacombs beneath his palazzo by promising to show him a rare vintage of Amontillado, a type of sherry wine. As they descend into the damp, dark catacombs, Fortunato, who is already intoxicated, becomes increasingly unaware of the danger he is in.
Montresor’s true intentions are revealed when he chains Fortunato to a wall in a small niche and begins to seal him inside by building a brick wall. The story concludes with Fortunato’s desperate pleas and Montresor’s chilling satisfaction as he completes his revenge.
