The Cask of Amontillado [Irony]

the insult
Situational Irony

The irony is that Montresor sees this as so severe that it justifies murder — but the insult itself is never revealed, so the reader suspects it may be trivial or imagined.

Fortunato’s name

Situational Irony

Fortunato's name means "fortunate," but he dies a tragic, unfortunate death.

Montresor’s greeting of Fortunato

Verbal Irony

Montresor greets Fortunato kindly, contrasting how he kills Fortunato

Fortunato’s costume for carnival
Situational Irony

Fortunato wears a jester’s costume, symbolizing foolishness — and he ends up being the fool who is tricked and killed.

Montresor’s family motto

Verbal Irony

The motto promises justice against insult, yet Montresor uses it to justify a dishonorable and secret murder

The catacombs

Dramatic Irony

the reader knows it’s a death trap, but Fortunato doesn’t

Montresor’s concern for Fortunato’s health

Verbal Irony

Montresor pretends to be worried about Fortunato, but it’s an act so he can kill him

Fortunato’s toast to the dead in the catacombs

Situational Irony

Fortunato was not expecting to join the dead

Montresor’s reply to Fortunato’s toast

Verbal Irony

Montresor says, “to your long life,” as if he’s wishing Fortunato good health and longevity while actively leading him to his death.

Fortunato’s question about the Masons and Montresor’s response with the trowel
Verbal Irony

Montresor foreshadows how he later kills Fortunato, using the trowel to trap him behind the wall.

Fortunato’s knowledge of wine

Situational Irony

Montresor tempts Fortunato with a fake story about acquiring a rare wine:

"I have received a pipe of what passes for Amontillado, and I have my doubts."

Fortunato’s pride in his wine knowledge leads him to walk willingly into a trap.