Characterization Of Montressor In The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allen Poe, the dark side of human nature is exemplified through the character of Montresor and his victim, Fortunato. Montresor is a manipulative and vengeful person. These characteristics lead to the death of Fortunato, a man who has possibly wronged him in the past. Through the acts, words, and the thoughts of the character, one is able to see him carry out his plan for revenge. The setting is lively and jubilant at the carnival. It then moves to the catacombs of Montresor’s home. Montresor dons a mask of black silk and a heavy knee length cloak. Montresor’s clothes seem to indicate his wanting to conceal himself so he can carry out his devious plan. On the other side of the spectrum, Fortunato wears a light fitting parti-striped dress, and his head was surmounted by the conical cap and bells. His clothing seems to indicate his trusting but foolish nature. The clothing of both characters seems to set the mood for what types of characters they were.However, Montresor's true character is indicated through his words. From the start of the story his vengeful nature is put on display. One of the first things that Montresor narrates to the reader about Fortunato is that he must not only be punish but punish with impunity. Montresor is also manipulative, as he tells Fortunato that he will have someone else taste the Amontillado, knowing that by doing this Fortunato will feel compelled to taste the wine himself. In addition to being manipulative and vengeful he also displays condescending traits. Montresor addresses Fortunato in the catacombs saying, your health is precious. You are rich, respected, admired, and beloved; you are happy as once I was. You are a man to be missed. Montresor’s actions also lend to his vengeful and manipulative nature. He lures Fortunato into the catacombs of his home to carry out his plans. First he caters to Fortunato’s ...
