write an essay in response to one (1) of the two (2) prompts below:
1. In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Cask of Amontillado,” Montresor’s family’s motto is “Nemo me impune lacessit” (438), which translates to “No one attacks me with impunity” (in other words, no one attacks me without being punished). In addition, Montresor’s coat of arms (family symbol) is a golden boot stomping on a snake whose fangs have bitten into the boot. In the story, it is described as “[a] huge human foot d’or [a giant golden boot]. In a field of azure; the foot crushes a serpent rampant whose fangs are imbedded in the heel” (438). How are this motto and/or this coat of arms related to Montresor’s motivation for murdering Fortunato? Referring to this motto and/or coat of arms, explain why Montresor murders Fortunato.

2. What is T. S. Eliot’s central argument in “Tradition and the Individual Talent”? Using textual evidence, provide a critical interpretation of this argument to your reader. Your thesis statement will be whatever you state is Eliot’s key argument. You will then find examples in the text that support your answer (you are convincing your reader that your critical interpretation of “Tradition and the Individual Talent” is correct).