Edgar Allan Poe's chilling tale, "The Cask of Amontillado," hinges on Montresor's meticulous revenge against Fortunato. While Fortunato's pride is a significant factor, his insatiable greed acts as the catalyst that allows Montresor to manipulate him to his doom. Pinpointing the exact quote that marks the definitive moment of Fortunato's greed is challenging, as it's a gradual unveiling rather than a single, explosive declaration. However, one passage stands out as a crucial turning point, highlighting Fortunato's susceptibility to avarice and paving the way for his tragic end.
Before we delve into that key moment, let's explore some related questions often asked about Fortunato's character and motivations:
What is Fortunato's Fatal Flaw?
Fortunato's fatal flaw isn't solely greed; it's a potent cocktail of pride, vanity, and indeed, a profound greed. His pride in his connoisseurship makes him vulnerable to Montresor's flattery, while his greed for a rare and valuable wine blinds him to the danger. This combination renders him utterly unprepared for the horrific fate that awaits him.
How Does Fortunato Show Greed in the Story?
Fortunato's greed manifests subtly throughout the narrative. His eagerness to sample the Amontillado, even despite his illness and the late hour, demonstrates his overriding desire for the prized wine. He's less concerned about his own well-being than he is about acquiring this coveted vintage. His repeated insistence on tasting the wine, even when urged to return home, underscores this obsession.
What is the Key Quote that Highlights Fortunato's Greed?
While no single line explicitly screams "greed," the following passage is arguably the most crucial turning point, showcasing Fortunato's susceptibility to avarice:
"He paused and nodded to me, and made the sign of the cross. He raised his glass to his lips, with a deep sigh, and drained it at one draught. His eyes flashed with a fierce light. He laughed and threw the empty glass on the floor."
This moment is pivotal because it reveals the extent of Fortunato's obsession with the Amontillado. The "fierce light" in his eyes and his enthusiastic consumption, even in the face of potential harm to his health, reveal the intoxicating power of his desire for the wine—a desire so strong it trumps caution and self-preservation. It demonstrates his absolute prioritization of the wine over his own well-being, a defining characteristic of his greed.
Is Fortunato's Pride or Greed More Important?
While both pride and greed are integral to Fortunato's downfall, one could argue that his greed ultimately seals his fate. His pride makes him vulnerable to Montresor's manipulation, but it's his insatiable desire for the Amontillado – his greed – that propels him deeper and deeper into the catacombs, oblivious to the deadly trap laid for him. The quote above highlights this decisive shift, from a prideful acceptance of the challenge to an almost manic obsession with the promised taste.
Conclusion
Fortunato's demise is a result of a complex interplay between pride and greed. While no single quote explicitly defines his greed, the passage detailing his fervent consumption of the Amontillado marks a critical turning point, illustrating the overwhelming power of his desire and solidifying his vulnerability to Montresor's wicked plan. The story's enduring power lies in Poe's ability to weave these character flaws into a tapestry of suspense and terror, leaving the reader to ponder the deadly consequences of unchecked ambition.
