Describe and contrast the settings where Montresor meets Fortunato and the setting where Montressor takes Fortunato in The Cask of Amontillado.

The contrast in the two settings is part of Poe's talent
in creating an eerie mood. The time was carnival, a festive occasion involving much
food, drink, and merriment. From the lights and cheer of the square, Montresor and
Fortunado proceed to an area below the basement, the catacombs, or burial crypt, of the
Montresor family in search of an elusive cask of rare wine. Darkness, damp, hanging
spider webs and nitre on the walls make for a spooky setting. Only a flambeau or torch
lit their way, casting weird shadows in an already eerie place. A separate niche in the
wall decorated with metal shackles and building materials at hand would have warned a
sober person. But at this time of year, sobriety was not the norm. Fortunado would meet
his doom in a most uncomfortable, macabre setting.