Author Edgar Allen Poe provides a view into a darker side of human nature in his short story "The Cask of Amontillado", depicting an image of evil and a sought after vengeance, through which Montresor seeks to claim. The desire for retribution is fueled by an insult issued by the "respected and even feared" Fortunado, thus igniting the hostilities that burn in his heart. Montresor deceivingly smiles and carelessly dismisses the insult but inside his heart is burning with vengeance. It is through Montresor's vow that he "must not only punish but punish with impunity." that his journey thus begins (173).
             While the journey is initially presented in a jovial, carnival like setting, Poe quickly leads the reader into the dark catacombs of Montresor's home, providing a realm of evil, where Montresor will seek Fortunato's death. Poe's wardrobe of Fortunato in a jesters costume seems to symbolize the characteristic light in which Montresor views him.
             Montresor's true vengeful character is revealed when he convinces Fortunato to sample the Amontillado. As they make their descent through the damp, cold, nitre covered walls of doom; Montresor manipulates Fortunato by telling him he could have Luchesi, taste the Amotillado, thus making him want to be the one to taste the wine all the more. As Montresor leads Fortunato into the caverns to his demise, he convinces him to taste several other wines, intoxicating him and making it easier for him to carry out his plan. He continues this facade, after hearing Fortunato's cough and telling him, "your health is precious. We will go back, you will be ill, and I cannot be responsible." (174). The author is foreshadowing Fortunato's death at this point and Fortunato then says "Enough, the cough is a mere nothing; it will not kill me. I shall not die of a cough." (175) Mont
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