The Cask of Amontillado

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Symbolic Collage”

In this activity, students will explore the symbolism used in “The Cask of Amontillado” and create a collage representing the story’s themes and motifs.

In “The Cask of Amontillado,” symbolism is used to represent deeper meanings and enhance the story’s themes, with elements such as the catacombs symbolizing the depths of the human psyche and the Amontillado representing both the desire for status or respect and the intoxicating allure of vengeance. In this activity, you will create a collage that explores an important symbol in the story.

• Working with a partner or in a small group, decide what medium you will use for your collage and gather the required materials. These might include magazines, scissors, glue, colored paper, or markers, unless you plan to create a digital collage.
• Choose a symbol or motif from the story. Consider the catacombs, the Amontillado wine, the carnival, the jester’s bells, etc.
• Discuss and brainstorm ideas with your partner or group, considering the deeper meaning and connotations associated with the symbol.
• Find or create images that represent and expand upon your chosen symbol or motif. Use these to create your collage.

Present and explain your artwork to the class, discussing the symbol represented and how it relates to themes in the story.

Teaching Suggestion: Giving students discussion time with their partners or groups will help engage them with the concept. You can use this activity to encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and visual representation of the story’s themes, fostering a deeper understanding of the text and its underlying messages. You might conclude the activity with a reflection or journal writing prompt, asking students to discuss how this activity deepened their understanding of the story.

“Paired Text Extension: ‘The Lottery’ by Shirley Jackson”

This paired text extension activity involves visual analysis and comparison with another text. Students further explore symbolism and themes while making connections between “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and “The Cask of Amontillado.”

• Divide the class into pairs or small groups and provide each group with copies of “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson.
• Instruct students to read and analyze the story, paying particular attention to the use of symbolism and themes.
• Ask students to create a Venn diagram that showcases the shared symbolism and unique aspects of each text.

Teaching Suggestion: Students could be given the option to use another style of graphic organizer or to show the connections in a way that utilizes technology. Additionally, you might use “The Lottery” on SuperSummary as a resource.