The Cask of Amontillado: Inferences and guided reading questions:
1. Poe hints that the narrator may be unreliable. How do the narrator’s opening statements suggest that he is overreacting?
2. Notice how the narrator secretively schemes for revenge. Is this how most people would respond to an insult?
3. What does the narrator’s smiling at the thought of Fortunato’s death tell you about his character?
4. Why is the narrator (Montresor) glad to see Fortunato? Most people don’t act friendly toward those they hate… What conclusion might Montresor’s behavior lead you to draw about his mental state?
5. Why did Montresor tell Fortunato that he would go to Luchesi to find out if his Amontillado was the real deal?
6. What does the narrator’s attitude toward his servants reveal about his view of humanity?
7. Why is it weird that Montresor refers to Fortunato as his “dear friend.” How does this conflict with his real feelings?
8. Do you think that Fortunato will lead a long life? What do you think will happen to him? What do you think Montresor will do to avenge himself? (end of page 176)
9. Why might Montresor be carrying a trowel? What can you conclude about his plans? (top part of 2nd column on page 177)
10. What are some of the bad qualities that have been revealed about Fortunato? (first column of page 178)
***This is not a written question they need to answer, but please ask what they think about Montresor consistently asking Fortunato if he’d like to turn back, even as he began to trap him. This should be asked at about the end of page 178. Just have them discuss this a little.
11. What can you conclude about Montresor’s state of mind when he stops his work to enjoy Fortunato’s cries? (middle of first column on page 179)
12. Do you think there could be any justifiable reason for someone to react like this? (at the end)