“ It must be understood that neither by word nor deed had I given Fortunato cause to doubt my good will. (25)” From the beginning Montresor presents himself as a con artist luring Fortunato into his death tomb. Lying is what cons specialize in; they go to great extremes to make sure their plans are successful. Obviously, Montresor has this well thought out plan to kill his so-called “friend”. The story begins with him announcing the sweet revenge he his about to initiate. He clearly states, “I must not only punish but punish with impunity.” Montresor expresses his deep hatred towards him; hatred that only a mad man could fathom.
As the story goes on, Montresor uses his con artist tactics to lure Fortunado into the catacombs. His efforts are so slick and sly that anyone would have thought they were best friends enjoying their time together at a carnival. The act was so convincing that I was fooled when first reading the short story. The perfect example is when the two enter the Nitre filled catacombs. Fortunato seems to be sick and the fumes coming from the walls cause him to cough repeatedly. Montresor pretends to be concerned by asking questions and offering to turn back. Finally he urges him to drink the Medoc as a “ Proper Caution.” This provokes Fortunato to keep going, falling deeper into his death trap. The bottom line is that Montresor has a sick, twisted mind and has no regard for the life of a human being. He laughed, as the bricks were stacked around Fortunado’s helpless body. His consumption of the wine throughout the day made him irrelevant to Montresor’s evil plan. I understand that Fortunado had a love for wine, but it cost him his life. It is all these villainous gestures that lead me to believe that Montresor is an unreliable narrator.
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