“The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe Language Arts 8

Edgar Allan Poe January 19, 1809-October 7, 1849 Born in Boston, Mass. One of three children Parents separated, mom died when he was two, & Edgar went to live with Mr. & Mrs. John Allan—a successful merchant Went school in England for a few years, then returned to America & attended the University of Virginia in 1826

Lived in Boston, Richmond, Philadelphia, Baltimore & NYC Was a struggling writer (and a drunk!) for most of his adult life A number of his homes are dedicated museums today

Carnivale Carnivale typically involves a public celebration or parade combining some elements of a circus, mask and public street party. People often dress up or masquerade during the celebrations, which mark an overturning of daily life. celebrationparadecircusstreet partymasquerade The main events are usually during February. Carnivale is a festive season which occurs immediately before Lent.Lent Carnivale is traditionally held in areas with a large Catholic and, to a lesser extent, Eastern Orthodox makeup. Carnivale is similar to our Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Vocabulary impunity: exemption from penalty or punishment connoisseur: person of discriminating taste clamored: noisily shouted virtuoso: Spirit: deep interest and knowledge of the arts gemmary: knowledge of precious stones immolation: sacrifice; killed by fire motley: multicolored costume of a jester pipe: large cask used for wine and oil suites: group of rooms occupied as a unit sherry: amber colored dry wine

Vocabulary cask: large container for beer or wine roquelaire: a knee-length coat perceive: attain understanding or awareness niter: white or grey salt deposit palazzo: a palace or luxurious house masons: freemasons; bricklayers utterance: something expressed; statement puncheons: barrel-shaped vessel used for liquids arms: insignia with figures & a family motto flambeaux: lighted torches

Vocabulary catacombs: subterranean cemetery; underground passageway crypt: an underground chamber aperture: an opening or open space rapier: long double-edged sword

Latin is Not a Dead Language Many words in the English language are derived from Latin root words. The roots are a key to understanding and expanding vocabulary. Additionally, certain Latin phrases are used in works of literature. “The Cask of Amontillado” is one of those literary pieces. “Nemo me impune lacessit.” – No one assails me with impunity. “In pace requiescat!” – May he rest in peace.

Examples of Foreshadowing “The thousand injuries of Fortunato I have borne…” “Enough,” he said, “the cough is a mere nothing…I shall not die from a cough.” The mention of the family crest. “ A huge human foot d’or…” Throughout the catacombs lay the bones and chains of others. “You are rich, respected, admired, beloved; you are happy, as once I was. You are a man to be missed.” The trowel beneath the roquelaire. De Grave (variety of sherry) translates to the grave.

Examples of Irony Fortunato’s name means good fortune or luck. The title (Cask) means both a wine barrel and is the root word of casket which is a coffin. Fortunato’s motley (jester’s outfit) is a contrast to his fate. The double edged reference to masons. Montresor will build Fortunato’s tomb.