Symbols
“Fortunato”
Fortunato's name serves as symbolic irony. Despite the meaning of his name, which translates to "the fortunate one" in Italian, Fortunato tragically becomes the target of Montresor's revenge. The irony deepens as Fortunato dons the attire of a court jester, further contrasting with his ill-fated destiny. While Fortunato engages in playful jesting, Montresor cunningly deceives him, ultimately leading to a murderous outcome.
The Montresor Family Motto and Coat of Arms
The motto "Nemo me impune lacessit," meaning "No one attacks me with impunity," symbolizes Montresor's relentless pursuit of revenge against Fortunato. The coat of arms, which features a foot stepping on a serpent while being bitten, reinforces the theme of retribution and represents the Montresor family's determination to assert their dominance and protect their honor.
The Amontillado Wine
The rare and valuable Amontillado wine serves as a symbol of wealth and luxury, as well as a lure used by Montresor to draw Fortunato into the catacombs. The wine is a key element in Montresor's manipulative tactics and his ability to exploit Fortunato's weaknesses for personal gain.
The Carnival
The carnival season, during which the story takes place, symbolizes a time of revelry and indulgence. It serves as a backdrop for Montresor's deceitful actions and highlights the festive atmosphere contrasted with the dark, ominous events unfolding beneath the surface.
The Catacombs
The dark, damp catacombs beneath Montresor's palazzo symbolize the depths of human depravity and the inevitability of death. They serve as the setting for Montresor's act of revenge and represent the descent into madness and moral decay.
The Trowel
The trowel, which Montresor uses to seal Fortunato within the brick wall, symbolizes the instrument of death and the finality of Montresor's revenge. It is crucial in the execution of his scheme and represents the cold, calculated nature of his actions.
