“The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe is a chilling story of revenge that raises the question of who is really at fault in the story. While Montresor, the narrator and avenger, believes that he is justified in his actions due to Fortunato's insults, further analysis reveals that Montresor is ultimately responsible for the tragic events that unfold. By examining Montresor's motivations, Fortunato's repeated insults, and the consequences of Montresor's actions, it becomes clear that Montresor is the culprit. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Montresor's motive for seeking revenge on Fortunato is rooted in a perceived insult. However, it is important to note that Montresor plans his revenge with a great deal of thought, indicating a premeditated act rather than a spontaneous reaction. In the opening lines of the story, Montresor states: "I had borne Fortunato's thousand wounds as best I could, but when he ventured to insult him, I swore revenge" (Poe , 1846). This suggests that Montresor has been enduring Fortunato's supposed insults for some time, but it is the final insult that triggers his desire for revenge. While Montresor's anger is understandable, it is his excessive and calculated plan that reveals his fault. He lures Fortunato to the catacombs under the pretense of tasting a rare wine, Amontillado, which Montresor knows will appeal to Fortunato due to his wine expertise. Montresor manipulates Fortunato's weakness, uses it to his advantage and ensures his victim's vulnerability. This deliberate and calculated approach demonstrates Montresor's responsibility for the unfolding events. Fortunato's insults towards Montresor are mentioned several times throughout the story, serving as an apparent justification for Montresor's actions. However, a closer look at these insults reveals their insignificance and Montresor's overreaction. First, Fortunato’s insults are described as “a thousand wounds” (Poe, 1846). This suggests a long history of perceived slights that Montresor endured. However, the actual insults are neither described nor detailed, leaving the reader to question their seriousness. Without this information, it becomes difficult to determine whether Fortunato's insults truly merited the extreme vengeance Montresor demands. Second, it is important to consider Fortunato's state of mind during the events of the story. As Montresor leads him deeper into the catacombs, Fortunato becomes increasingly drunk, impairing his judgment and making his insults less reliable. The reader wonders if Fortunato's insults were a genuine reflection of his feelings or simply the result of his drunkenness. The final piece of evidence that places blame on Montresor are the devastating consequences of his actions. Montresor's desire for revenge leads him to commit murder, an act that cannot be justified, regardless of the insults he has received. By burying Fortunato alive behind a wall, Montresor not only takes his victim's life, but also inflicts immense pain and terror. The consequences of Montresor's actions extend beyond the immediate harm inflicted on Fortunato. Montresor himself is haunted by guilt and regret, as evidenced by his confession at the end of the story. He admits that "for half a century no mortal has disturbed [Fortunato's remains]" (Poe, 1846), implying that Montresor carried the weight of his actions for many years. This guilt, well