First and foremost, Montresor’s strong dedication to vengeance is a key trait that helps him succeed in murdering Fortunato. In the story’s exposition, Montresor narrates from first person point of view just how thirsty for revenge he is. He admits “The point was settled in my mind” and adds “I had vowed revenge without fail” (Poe 67). In that same section of the text, he says repeatedly that he “must” give Fortunato the “punishment” he deserves (Poe 67). These few citations demonstrate that Montresor approaches his ultimate objective - Fortunato’s demise - as if he is taking a solemn oath to make murder his life’s duty. Basically, he has made up his mind. Failure is not an option in his eyes, and he sets off on a mission for vengeance. Thus,