The Cask of Amontillado

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 5

Assignment

With the use of the next slides we will be analysing The Cask of Amontillado by answering some questions:

Question 1

The blending of horror and humour.

How is the way Fortunato is dressed considered to be humorous?

Why would an author use humour side by side with horror?

Overall, using humor alongside horror enables authors to create a multifaceted narrative that engages the audience emotionally, subverts expectations, and explores deeper aspects of the human experience. It can enhance the impact of both humor and horror, making the story more memorable and thought-provoking.

How is the way Fortunato is dressed considered to be horror?

Questions 2+3

Narrator

Who's the narrator of this short story?

1. Fortunato
2. Edgar Allen Poe
3. Montresor
4. Amontillado

Is Montresor a reliable narrator and why?

The narrator's attitude changes with the progressing of the story. How does it change?

Is Montresor a 'good' villain?

Whether Montresor can be considered a "good" villain is subjective and depends on one's interpretation and personal criteria for evaluating a villainous character. However, Montresor is certainly a compelling and effective villain within the context of "The Cask of Amontillado." 

Question 4

Antagonist

Does the reader get to know why Fortunado must die?

Question 5

Setting

What is the setting of the narrative?

1. Carnival
2. Catacombs
3. Winecellar
4. Somewhere in France

What elements of the setting are typical of a horror story?

The elements of

• Catacombs
• Isolation
• Darkness/shadows
• decay and deterioration
• etc.

in "The Cask of Amontillado" contribute to the horror atmosphere by establishing a sense of isolation, darkness, decay, and psychological turmoil. They work together to create a chilling and unsettling backdrop for the events of the story.

Question 6

Themes

What are the themes in The Cask of Amontillado?

"The Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allan Poe explores themes of revenge, betrayal, pride, obsession, unreliable narration, and irony. Montresor seeks revenge against Fortunato for some perceived injury, and the story delves into the destructive power of obsession, the consequences of pride and hubris, and the unpredictable nature of human behavior. The story's ironic twists and unreliable narration add to its psychological and dark nature, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of revenge and obsession.

Question 7

irony/sarcasm/satire

irony

satire

sarcasm

using language that signifies the opposite

use of irony to mock

exposing and critizing someone's stupidity

irony is when something happens or is said that is different from what was expected. It's like a surprising twist. Satire is making fun of something to criticise it, sarcasm is making mean or mocking remarks (using irony).

CITO questions

On page 1, Montresor compares himself to Fortunado. Write down the first two words of the sentence that states this likeness.

On page 2 how does Montresor get Fortunado to come with him?

On page 3 the reader is confronted with what might be a reason for Montresor's actions. Write down the phrase that gives it away.

On page 5 how does Montresor manage to quieten Fortunado?

1. By sitting down and doing nothing.
2. By using his sword.
3. By yelling back even louder.

On page 6 how does Fortunado try to change Montresor's mind?

1. By yelling at him.
2. By mentioning that certain people are waiting for him.
3. By indicating that the joke was fun while it lasted.

Rest of lesson

• Form groups five groups of 4 and one of 3 people. 
• Let me know what group you're in and I'll assign one of the stories to you. 
• Sit together and read page 15 in your reader ('PRESENTATIONS').
• Start brainstorming.