Question

Select the choice which best identifies the given passage from "The Cask of Amontillado." (4 points)

Answer 1

1. Characterization. Poe describes the character of Fortunato in just a couple of sentences.

2. Setting. In this passage the author creates the macabre ambient and scenery that normally represents his short stories.  

3. Tragic resolution. Even though it sounds ironic, this phrase said by Fortunato wasn't meant to be sarcastic, he is serious when he says he won't die of a cough. The tragic resolution of the character is actually what makes this passage sound ironic, Fortunato doesn't know he's about to die, a much more horrible death.

Answer 2

1. "He had a weak point—this Fortunato—although in other regards he was a man to be respected and even feared."

- This is an example of characterization. Here, Poe is telling us important information about the character of Fortunato. His "weak point" will end up leading to his death.

2. "Putting on a mask of black silk, and drawing a roquelaire [cloak of knee length] closely about my person, I suffered him to hurry me to my palazzo [a large home or mansion]."

- This is an example of setting. Here, Poe is setting the scene for the action.

3.  "Enough," he said; "the cough is a mere nothing; it will not kill me. I shall not die of a cough."

- This is an example of irony. Fortunato is quite correct, although he doesn't know it. He will not die of a cough. He will die, and soon -- but not from a cough.