Edgar Allan Poe 
The Cask of Amontillado 

‘The Cask of Amontillado’ is a chilling and suspenseful short story written by Edgar Allan Poe. Set in an unnamed Italian city, the story follows the narrator, Montresor, as he seeks revenge against his perceived enemy, Fortunato. Montresor lures Fortunato into his family catacombs under the pretence of tasting a rare wine, the Amontillado. However, what begins as a friendly encounter turns into a sinister and macabre tale of betrayal and murder.
Poe’s masterful storytelling and use of symbolism create an atmosphere of tension and impending doom. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into Montresor’s twisted mind, exploring themes of vengeance, pride, and the dark depths of human nature. ‘The Cask of Amontillado’ leaves a lingering sense of unease and raises questions about the true nature of justice and the consequences of obsession.