Revenge is basic tools of human instinct. Whether society chooses to accept or blind itself to this fact, it is an indisputable truth. The revenge completely disregards the presence of the basic human instinct which thrives on the manipulation and destruction of others, for the moment of satisfaction. .
In Edgar Allan Poe's story, "The Cask of Amontillado" is a story about revenge, telling the story from Montressor's point of view. The story begins with Montresor's vow of revenge. At the end of the story, Montresor set trap for Fortunato and at the catacombs, Fortunato meet his death. Similarly, Andre Dubus's story, "Killings," told in third person's point of view, involves the essentials of revenge throughout the story. Richard Strout, who was Marry Ann's husband, kills Frank Fowler over jealousy. In return, Frank's father, Matt kills Richard as revenge with help from his friend Willis. In both stories, they have several connections along the matter of revenge. .
In Poe's story, "The Cask of Amontillado," has many significance. The setting in Poe's story takes place during the carnival season. But the setting quickly changed from the happy festival to the damp, dark catacombs, which is similar to the life of Fortunato. Poe's use of language was also significant to the story. The victim, Fortunato's name was ironic to his destiny. Fortunato derived from fortunate meaning prosperous or happy, but he met unfortunate end of his life. As they walked through the catacombs, Montresor expressed concern about Fortunato's health when he was coughing, and several times he suggested that they should turn back, but Fortunato replied, "I will not die from a cough." Fortunato was not aware of his future ahead, which is the irony and also foreshadowing his destiny. "In pace requiescat!" is the last irony of the story, which means in peace may he rest. Poe also used numerous symbolisms in his story.
