Edgar Allan Poe's "The Cask of Amontillado" is a chilling tale of revenge that raises the question of who is truly guilty in the story. While Montresor, the narrator and avenger, believes he is justified in his actions due to Fortunato's insults, careful analysis reveals that Montresor is ultimately responsible for the tragic events that unfold. Through an examination of Montresor's motivations, Fortunato's repeated insults, and the consequences of Montresor's actions, it becomes apparent that Montresor is the culprit. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Montresor's reason for seeking revenge against Fortunato is rooted in a perceived insult. However, it is important to note that Montresor plans his revenge with careful consideration, indicating a premeditated act rather than a spontaneous reaction. In the first lines of the story Montresor states: "I had borne Fortunato's thousand insults as best I could, but when he dared to insult me ​​I swore revenge" (Poe, 1846). This suggests that Montresor had already been enduring Fortunato's alleged insults for some time, but it is the final insult that triggers his desire for revenge. While Montresor's anger is understandable, it is his excessive and calculated plan that reveals his guilt. He lures Fortunato into the catacombs under the pretext of tasting a rare wine, Amontillado, which Montresor knows will attract Fortunato due to his expertise in wines. Montresor manipulates Fortunato's weakness, using it to his advantage and ensuring his victim's vulnerability. This deliberate and calculated approach demonstrates Montresor's responsibility for the events that unfold. Fortunato's insults towards Montresor are mentioned several times throughout the story, serving as an apparent justification for Montresor's actions. However, a closer examination of these insults reveals their insignificance and overreaction on Montresor's part. First, Fortunato's insults are described as "a thousand insults" (Poe, 1846). This suggests a long history of perceived slights that Montresor has endured. However, the actual insults are not described or detailed, leaving the reader to question their severity. Without this information, it becomes difficult to determine whether Fortunato's insults truly deserved Montresor's extreme revenge. Secondly, it is important to consider Fortunato's state of mind during the events of the story. As Montresor leads him deeper into the catacombs, Fortunato becomes increasingly drunk, impairing his judgment and making his insults less reliable. The reader is left wondering whether Fortunato's insults were a genuine reflection of his feelings or simply the result of his drunkenness. The final piece of evidence that places blame on Montresor is the devastating consequences of his actions. Montresor's desire for revenge leads him to commit murder, an act that cannot be justified, despite the insults he receives. By burying Fortunato alive behind a wall, Montresor not only takes the life of his victim, but also inflicts immense suffering and terror. The consequences of Montresor's actions go beyond the immediate damage inflicted on Fortunato. Montresor himself is haunted by guilt and remorse, as evidenced by his confession at the end of the story. He admits that “For half a century no mortal has disturbed [Fortunato's remains]” (Poe, 1846), implying that Montresor bore the brunt of his actions for many years. This guilt, although self-imposed, is a consequence of Montresor's decision to seek revenge and take matters into his own hands. Conclusion In