Irony

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What is irony?

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Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning is different from the actual meaning, often highlighting a contrast between expectations and reality.

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What is situational irony?

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Situational irony occurs when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens.

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What is dramatic irony?

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Dramatic irony is when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do, creating a contrast between the character's understanding and the reality.

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What is verbal irony?

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Verbal irony is when a speaker says one thing but means another, often used for sarcasm or humor.

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Example of situational irony: A pilot is afraid of heights.

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This is situational irony because a pilot, who is expected to be comfortable with heights, is actually afraid of them.

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Example of dramatic irony: Romeo thinks Juliet is dead, but the audience knows she drank a sleeping potion.

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This is dramatic irony because the audience has information that the character does not.

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Example of verbal irony: Saying 'Oh, great!' when something bad happens.

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This is verbal irony because the speaker's tone suggests the opposite of the literal meaning.

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What is the effect of irony in literature?

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Irony can create humor, emphasize a point, or provoke thought by highlighting contradictions.

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How does situational irony differ from dramatic irony?

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Situational irony involves unexpected outcomes, while dramatic irony involves a gap in knowledge between the audience and characters.

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What is an example of verbal irony in everyday conversation?

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Saying 'Nice weather we're having!' during a storm is an example of verbal irony.