The motto in Edgar Allan Poe’s short story ‘The Cask of Amontillado’ is ‘Nemo me impune lacessit,’ which translates to ‘No one attacks me with impunity.’ This Latin phrase is the motto of the Royal Stuart dynasty of Scotland and is also associated with the Order of the Thistle.
In the context of the story, the motto reflects the theme of revenge. The protagonist, Montresor, uses this phrase to justify his actions against Fortunato, whom he believes has wronged him. The motto underscores Montresor’s belief that he is justified in seeking revenge and that Fortunato will not escape unpunished for his perceived insults.
The phrase is inscribed on the Montresor family coat of arms, which features a golden foot crushing a serpent whose fangs are embedded in the heel. This imagery further emphasizes the theme of retribution, as the foot represents Montresor, and the serpent represents Fortunato. The motto and the imagery together convey the idea that Montresor will not tolerate any slight or insult and will exact his revenge without mercy.