Have you ever heard of a man who had a game of hunting humans? Well, if you have not, then Zaroff is that guy. Not to be confused with Montressor, who only killed his victim out of vengefulness. Montressor and Zaroff have many similarities and differences, such as both of them seeming welcome and generous towards Fortunato and Rainsford. The difference is that Montressor had not informed Fortunato of his intentions, but Zaroff let Rainsford know about his game of hunting right off the bat.
Fortunato and Rainsford thought Montressor and Zaroff seemed welcoming and generous. “My friend, no. It is not the engagement, but the severe cold with which I perceive you are afflicted. The vaults are insufferably damp. They are encrusted with niter” (89).
Montressor acts like he cares about the cold he believes Fortunato might have, when all he can really think about is killing him. “Now you want clothes, food, rest. You shall have them. This is a most restful spot” (72).
Zaroff offers Rainsford a place to stay with food and clothes. “I was about to have my dinner when you came. I’ll wait for you. You’ll find that my clothes will fit you, I think” (72).
Zaroff made a kind gesture towards Rainsford, by delaying his dinner for him and letting him wear his clothes.
Montressor and Zaroff have some differences, as well. Fortunato was not aware of Montressor planning on killing him. On the other hand, Zaroff let Rainsford know straight up they were going to play his hunting game, and Rainsford was fully informed of the rules of the game. “At length, I would be avenged, this was a point definitively settled- but the very definitiveness, with which it was resolved, precluded the idea of risk” (87).
General Zaroff Character Analysis Essay
General Zaroff, one of the main characters in The Most Dangerous Game, was introduced to readers towards the middle of the book and is the antagonist throughout this short story. General Zaroff displays a love for hunting, an unstable and unremorseful mind, and also displays arrogance and cockiness. These three character traits are supported by his actions and words throughout the short story. ...
Montressor explains here how he wants revenge on Fortunato, and this proves that he did not tell Fortunato of his intentions and how he was not planning on doing so. He also says how he must be cautious of the risk. “You need a good, restful night’s sleep. Tomorrow you’ll feel like a new man, I’ll wager. Then, we’ll hunt, eh?” (76-77).
Zaroff speaks to Rainsford here, letting him know that they will be hunting the next day.
Montressor and Zaroff both seemed generous and welcoming towards Fortunato and Rainsford. However, they both had bad intentions. Montressor did not inform Fortunato of his plan of killing him, while Zaroff told Rainsford straight up about his hunting game they were going to play. At the end of the day, Montressor and Zaroff are both very messed up individuals, if you ask me.