In literature, every genre has its own specific and unique characteristics. In “The Cask of the Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe, the protagonist Montresor and antagonist Fortunato both fit into the gothic archetype and fulfill the role of a gothic character. Often, a gothic character commits one or more of the deadly sins, which are, lust, greed, envy, wrath, pride, gluttony, and sloth. The punishment Montresor suffers for committing these sins is living with the guilt of knowing he killed someone. Fortunato has a lot of pride in himself and commits gluttony because he gets drunk. Fortunato’s punishment for his sins is being killed by Montresor. Montresor and Fortunato satisfy the gothic archetype in a myriad of ways. Gothic literature focuses on the worst traits of mankind. In gothic literature, the characters possess evil traits and fit into the gothic archetype. A gothic archetype is when a character fits into a…show more content… Montresor is very envious of Fortunato’s social status. In the story Montresor states, “You are rich, respected, admired, beloved; you are as happy as I once was.” Montresor clearly said he is jealous of Fortunato because he used to be as wealthy and be as well-known as Fortunato. Now, since Montresor is insulted by Fortunato, he is not respected and the way people view him negatively changed. Moreover, Montresor has a big amount of wrath against Fortunato. The author states, “I had come as I best could; but when he ventured upon insult, I vowed revenge.” Fortunato insulted Montresor so severely, making the anger build up in Montresor. Montresor decides to get revenge on Fortunato. Montresor came up with an elaborate plan through manipulation and being devious to kill Fortunato. Although Montresor was no longer living with the wrath towards Fortunato, he is punished for his sins because he has to live with the guilt of knowing he killed
