In the short story "The Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allen Poe, evaluate montresor's justification for seeking revenge against fortunate. do you think his actions were justified, why or why not
Montresor's justification for seeking revenge against Fortunato is his perceived insult and injury by Fortunato, which he believes Fortunato deserves to be punished for. Montresor claims that Fortunato has "wronged" him and seeks to uphold his family motto, "Nemo me impune lacessit" ("No one insults me with impunity").
However, Montresor's actions are morally questionable and unjustified. Seeking revenge through murder is never justified, regardless of the perceived offense. Montresor's premeditated plan to lure Fortunato into the catacombs and wall him up alive is a cruel and disproportionate response to any insult.
Furthermore, it is evident that Montresor's motivation for revenge is fueled by his own pride and desire for control. His actions are driven by a desire to assert power over Fortunato rather than seeking justice. Additionally, the fact that Montresor derives pleasure from Fortunato's suffering and death further highlights the depravity of his actions.
In conclusion, Montresor's actions in seeking revenge against Fortunato are not justified. Revenge should never be sought through violence and murder, and Montresor's actions can be seen as morally reprehensible. His twisted sense of justice and desire for control ultimately lead to the needless and horrific death of Fortunato.