The Cask of Amontillado is a short story by Edgar Allan Poe, first published in 1846. Set in an unnamed Italian city during the carnival season, the story follows Montresor, a man who seeks revenge against his acquaintance, Fortunato, whom he believes has insulted him. Montresor lures the unsuspecting and intoxicated Fortunato into the catacombs of his palazzo with the promise of sampling a rare vintage wine called Amontillado. As they descend deeper underground, Montresor continues to flatter and deceive Fortunato, playing on his pride and vanity.
The tale reaches its chilling climax when Montresor chains Fortunato inside a small niche and begins to wall him in, brick by brick, leaving him to die. Fortunato’s laughter and disbelief gradually give way to terror as he realizes Montresor’s true intent. The story ends with Montresor revealing that fifty years have passed since the murder, and no one has discovered the crime. Through themes of revenge, pride, and psychological manipulation, Poe creates a dark and suspenseful narrative that explores the depths of human cruelty and madness.
