by Edgar Allen Poe
A cask is a large barrel used for holding liquids. Amontillado is a pale, dry sherry wine. It is named for the Montilla region of Spain, where the wine originated in the 18th century.
Vocabulary
ventured
ventured v. dare to do something or go somewhere that may be dangerous or unpleasant
impunity
n. freedom from being caught or punished impunity n. freedom from being caught or punished
immolation n. a sacrifice; atonement
motley n. the multi-colored garment of a jester
vault n. an arched structure made of concrete or stones usually in an underground chamber
roquelaire ( roquelaure) n. a cloak reaching to the knees worn by men in the 18th century
v. to depart in a sudden or secretive manner absconded v. to depart in a sudden or secretive manner
sconce n. the hole or socket of a candlestick, for holding the candle
flambeaux n. a torch used at night for illumination
catacombs n. an underground cemetery consisting of tunnels and recesses dug out for coffins
mason n. a person whose trade is working with bricks or cement and mortar
flagon n. a container for holding wine at the table
trowel n. a tool having a flat blade used for working with mortar
fettered v. to restrain with a chain or shackles
aperture n. an opening, as a hole, slit or crack