Question

In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado," Fortunato's insult to Montresor is a significant piece of the puzzle to understanding the murder. Why do you suppose Poe leaves this information out of the story?

Answer 1

Poe leaves the insult out of the story to create suspense and mystery, emphasize Montresor's obsession with revenge, and convey a universal cautionary message.

Step-by-step explanation:

One possible reason why Poe leaves the insult from Fortunato to Montresor out of the story is to create suspense and heighten the sense of mystery surrounding the murder. By not explicitly revealing the insult, Poe leaves readers with questions and a desire to uncover the full story. Additionally, leaving out the specific insult allows readers to project their own interpretations and imaginations onto the narrative, making it more engaging and thought-provoking.

The absence of the insult also serves to emphasize Montresor's obsession with revenge. Poe focuses on Montresor's desire for vengeance rather than the specific insult itself. This allows the story to explore themes of betrayal, obsession, and the dark depths of human nature, rather than getting caught up in the details of the insult.

Furthermore, leaving the insult out of the story allows for a more universal and enduring message. By not tying the murder specifically to one insult, the story can be seen as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked revenge and the consequences of harboring hatred and resentment.