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Identify an example of each of the following literary terms in 'The Cask of Amontillado.' Provide your example using a quote from the story and explain why your example works.

a. Irony
b. Foreshadowing
c. Symbolism

User Newtt
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Final answer:

In 'The Cask of Amontillado,' there are examples of irony, foreshadowing, and symbolism. The example of irony is when Montresor presents his revenge as certain when it involves great risk. The example of foreshadowing is when Montresor hints at Fortunato's impending doom. The example of symbolism is the Montresor family coat of arms with a foot crushing a snake.

Step-by-step explanation:

a. Irony: An example of irony in 'The Cask of Amontillado' can be found when the narrator, Montresor, describes his intentions to Fortunato:

'At length I would be avenged; this was a point definitely settled-but the very definitiveness with which it was resolved, precluded the idea of risk.'

This example of irony works because Montresor is ironically presenting his plan for revenge as something that is certain and resolved, when in fact it involves great risk.

b. Foreshadowing: A clear example of foreshadowing in the story is when Montresor tells Fortunato:

'We will go back; your health is precious. You are rich, respected, admired, beloved; you are happy, as I once was.'

This example of foreshadowing works because it hints at the impending doom that awaits Fortunato, suggesting that his happiness will soon come to an end.

c. Symbolism: One example of symbolism in 'The Cask of Amontillado' is the use of the Montresor family coat of arms, which includes a foot in a golden field crushing a snake:

'A huge human foot d'or, in a field of azure; the foot crushes a serpent rampant whose fangs are imbedded in the heel.'

This example of symbolism works because the foot represents Montresor's revenge, while the crushed snake represents Fortunato's impending demise.

User Ahlem
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