Literature

Paper Sample:

The following is an excerpt from a paper. Note that the introduction begins with attention grabbers, introduces the story and author, and then it ends with a thesis. Note how the writer integrates the story using quotations and then spends most of his time explaining and analyzing rather than summarizing. Also note the conclusion. It restates the thesis and then summarizes the essay's main points. Finally, examine the Works Cited Page. If you choose the same story, your Works Cited Page will be identical to the one below.

Joe Smith

December 25, 20XX

EGL 1020

How does setting affect a story? Does it influence the plot or change a story's trajectory? Setting is one of the more important aspects in short stories. It can shape the action and drive characters towards a set goal. In Edgar Allan Poe's The Cask of Amontillado, the change in setting reflects the narrator's main goal: revenge. Each scene and both of the characters in the play are surrounded and seemingly trapped by their surroundings. In fact, the change in settings from a light party atmosphere, known as carnival, all the way the dark Catacombs reflect Montresor's manipulative action as he tricks Fortunato into following along to his own death.

From the very beginning of the story, the setting sets the tone of the play and helps Montresor manipulate Fortunato. The narrator Montresor describes the opening atmosphere as "the supreme madness of the carnival season" (218). According to Montresor, "he had on a tight-fitting parti-striped dress, and his head was surmounted by the conical cap and bells" (219). Fortunato is dressed as a silly jester or clown. Clearly, this is a party and festive atmosphere. Everyone seems to be having a good time, and this includes both Montresor and Fortunato. There is no sign or hint for Fortunato that an evil outcome is in the future. In fact, Montresor begin a friendly conversation about wine. Montresor is inquiring about the quality of a particular kind of wine called Amontillado. He knows that Fortunato believes himself to be a wine expert. As a result, the two characters talk freely, and, in the party atmosphere, Montresor can lay his trap about luring Fortunato to his estate. Montresor even warns Fortunato about the environment in his crypt. However, Fortunato states, "The cold is merely nothing. Amontillado!" In his festive mood, Fortunato is obsessed with wine and fun.

The setting begins to darken a bit as the two characters enter the estate. Montresor points out how he as tricked his servants into leaving early...

Conclusion:

The setting changes in The Cask of Amontillado contribute to evil trickery of Montresor and his ability to deceive his friend Fortunato. The opening party creates an ideal atmosphere to lower Fortunato's guard. After the party, Poe's story begins to darken as the action moves to Montresor's empty estate and finally to the crypts. The atmosphere in the crypt reflects the evil that Montresor is planning. All of the bones and dark imagery in the catacombs alert the reader to an unpleasant ending. Unfortunately for Fortunato, he is unable to recognize any of these danger signs; his drunken state or pride have led him to imprisonment and a horrible death.

Works Cited

Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Cask of Amontillado." Portable Literature: Reading, Reacting, Writing.

Eds. Laurie Kirzner and Stephen Mandell. Ohio: Cengage Learning, 2013. 218-223.