Identify an example of irony in the novel. How does this literary device underscore the contradictions between appearance and reality in the lives of the characters?
Understand the Problem
The question asks to identify an instance of irony within a novel and explain how the irony highlights the discrepancies between how characters seem and what their lives are truly like. This necessitates identifying a specific example of irony and then analyzing its effect on the reader's understanding of the characters and their situations.
Answer
Irony is a literary device highlighting contradictions between appearance and reality, creating a disparity between expectations and what is actually the case.
Irony is a literary device that exposes contradictions between appearance and reality. It creates a disparity between expectations and what is actually the case, often for humor, emphasis, or to challenge the status quo. Authors use it to highlight the difference between what is said and what is meant.
Answer for screen readers
Irony is a literary device that exposes contradictions between appearance and reality. It creates a disparity between expectations and what is actually the case, often for humor, emphasis, or to challenge the status quo. Authors use it to highlight the difference between what is said and what is meant.
More Information
There are generally three kinds of irony recognized in literature: dramatic, situational, and verbal.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume that sarcasm is irony -- while it can be, sarcasm is more specifically a tone of voice used to convey contempt or mockery, and the two terms shouldn't be used interchangeably.
Sources
- The 3 Types of Irony (with Examples) - Boords - boords.com
- Irony in Literature | Definition, Types & Examples - Lesson - Study.com - study.com
- What is Irony? | Definition & Examples | College of Liberal Arts - liberalarts.oregonstate.edu
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