Irony is a literary device that creates a contrast between expectation and reality. It is a moment in which the opposite of what is expected actually occurs, a contradiction of our perceived reality. Irony can be used for critical or humorous effect in literature, music, art, and film. There are three main types of irony in literature:
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Verbal Irony: This occurs when a speaker or narrator says something that differs from what they mean, what they intend, or what the situation requires. For example, saying "What a beautiful day" when it is raining outside.
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Dramatic Irony: This occurs when the audience knows something that the characters in the story do not. For example, in Shakespeares play "Romeo and Juliet," the audience knows that Juliet is not really dead, but Romeo does not.
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Situational Irony: This occurs when the outcome of a situation is the opposite of what was expected. For example, a fire station burning down.
Irony is often used to create humor and/or point out the absurdity of life. It can also reveal deeper truths by highlighting the many strange contradictions and juxtapositions woven through life. When deployed with skill, irony is a powerful tool that adds depth and substance to a piece of writing.
