Quote 19
There came forth in reply only a jingling of the bells. My heart grew sick–on account of the dampness of the catacombs. (90)
The jingling of the bells can also be seen as Fortunato’s last words. What do you think he’s trying to express? Jot down whatever comes in to your head.
Quote 20
He had a weak point–this Fortunato […]. (5)
Is weakness the same as foolishness? Some would argue that weakness and foolishness are both necessary to human survival. What would Montresor think about that idea?
Quote 21
In painting and gemmary, Fortunato, like his countrymen, was a quack–but in the matter of old wines he was sincere. (5)
Fortunato had some interests we might forget about as the story progresses. Montresor implies that he is an artist with a sideline in fine gems. Because he talks about all Italians, we have reason to doubt Montresor’s claim that Fortunato is “a quack.” His statement sounds foolish.