The Cask Of Amontillado Human Nature Essay

In “The Cask of Amontillado,” the narrator’s understanding of human nature and character is what made it possible for him to accomplish his goal with ease. Montresor being aware that one’s pride will often drive decisions and actions allowed him to play on his victim’s ego with great success. His ability to use reverse phycology on Fortunato made it easy for him to use Fortunato in a way that made him a player in the brining about of his own death. Montresor was aware that when a person believes their pride is on the line they will try and prove they are better than their perceived competitors. Montresor played on Fortunato’s vanity and ego when he encountered him that night at the festival. He made it known to Fortunato victim that he was on his way to try and receive help from a lesser wine connoisseur,

Montresor repeatedly made it seem as though he thought that they should turn around for Fortunato’s sake. Fortunato’s pride would not allow him to admit weakness and give up. Instead Montresor’s reverse phycology worked to hasten the death of his victim. “Putting on a mask of black silk, and drawing a roquelaire closely about my person, I suffered hi to hurry me to my palazzo.” (Poe 145) The narrator also uses reverse phycology with his staff, he told them that he would be away for the night, knowing that they would use this opportunity to participate in the festival. Montresor’s understanding of human nature and character made it possible for him to carrying out his plan with ease. He did not have to use for to bring an end to his victim; instead, he used his victim’s vanity to trick him into coming to his house. That coupled with reverse phycology was all it took for Montresor to trap Fortunato in the vault. Had he not been able to anticipate what his victims reactions he would have had a much more difficult time carrying out his