The Gothic Tales Of: The Cask of Amontillado and A Rose for Emily

Essay by red252A-, October 2009

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There are many literary devices used in writing a short story. Some important literary devices are irony, symbolism, and imagery. This not only gives insight to the author's style but it also allows the reader to understand the short story they are reading. In "The Cask Of Amontillado," by Edgar Allan Poe and "A Rose For Emily," by William Faulkner the use of irony, symbolism, and imagery are used to show readers what pride, revenge, and power will do to people.

The irony in "The Cask Of Amontillado" is indicated when Montresor states, "I continued, as was my wont, to smile in his face, and he did not perceive that my smile now was at the thought of his immolation" (217). Fortunato has no idea that his "friend" is going to kill him and Fortunato allows Montresor to take advantage of him. Not only does Montresor get Fortunato drunk but Montresor makes many comments to Fortunato on the way to the "vault" to indicate Fortunato's fate that lies ahead.

Not to mention the death of Fortunato was intended to be a slow and torturous death so he could think about what he did wrong. Instead, Fortunato dies quickly, "But to these words I hearkened in vain for a reply. I grew impatient. I called aloud- 'Fortunato!' No answer. I called again…" (222).This upsets Montresor and defeats his purpose to make Fortunato suffer.

On the other hand, in "A Rose For Emily" the irony is indicated by the way Emily's father treats her, "We remembered all the young men her father had driven away, but we knew that nothing was left, she would have to cling to the which had robbed her, as people will" (317). Emily is not allowed to have any freedoms under her father's...