Examples Of Dramatic Irony In The Cask Of Amontillado

Edgar Allan Poe’s short story, “The Cask of Amontillado,” is a thrilling and a suspenseful tragedy filled with irony. At the beginning of the story, the protagonist, Montresor explains how he desires for revenge. “The thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could, but when he ventured upon insult, I vowed revenge.” (233). He warns the reader something unfortunate will happen to the antagonist, Fortunato. The story follows two wine connoisseurs throughout the night as they walk through the dark catacombs. “The Cask of Amontillado,” includes verbal, situational, and dramatic irony, which causes the reader to experience suspense, confusion, and horror. Poe’s use of verbal irony emphasizes Montresor’s plan to kill Fortunato. For example, Montresor says, “My dear Fortunato, you are luckily met!” (234). Montresor is lucky to meet Fortunato because he plans is to kill him. However, it is obvious that Fortunato is unlucky to …show more content…

While Montresor leads Fortunato into the vaults to see the non-existent cask of wine, Fortunato does not realize he is about to his “cask.” Ironically, the word “cask” is derived from the same word used to form “casket.” This idea was hidden within Poe’s writing as Montresor plans revenge against Fortunato. Secondly, Montresor then describes how he plans to kill Fortunato; however, the reader assumes a sudden death. To the audience’s surprise, Montresor plans an unpleasant death by burying him alive in the catacombs. Lastly, Montresor states, “My heart is sick, it must be from the air.” (238). This quote is ironic, because putting Fortunato’s life to an end does not sicken him as much as the air does. He is a corrupt and evil man, who does not regret any actions he has made. While situational irony takes the reader by surprise, dramatic irony brings thrill and curiosity to the thoughts in Montresor’s