what is dramatic irony in creative writing

• Literary Terms
• Dramatic irony
• Definition & Examples
• When & How to Write Dramatic Irony

I. What is Dramatic irony?

Irony is when you get the opposite of what you expect, especially if the result is humorous or striking in some way. Dramatic irony, however, is slightly different: it’s when the audience knows something the characters don’t — so the characters might get an unexpected outcome, but for the audience it’s not unexpected at all.

II. Examples

We all know the ending of Titanic — that ship is going down. But everyone on board thinks that it’s “unsinkable”!

In the Action Philosophers! comic book, a bunch of ancient Greek philosophers are arguing about the nature of reality, and they’re about to have a huge brawl. Suddenly, Democritus steps onto the scene and tells everyone that he has a solution! The universe, he says, is made up of tiny “atoms” that rearrange themselves to create all the different forms of matter we see around us. All the other philosophers find this idea so ridiculous that they collapse in laughter and forget about their quarrel. Of course, the reader knows that Democritus will one day be proven correct.

Dramatic irony can happen when the characters just don’t know what kind of movie they’re in. In a horror movie, for example, the characters might be exploring a creepy old basement when one says “Don’t be a wimp, there’s nothing down here!” Even if we’ve never seen the movie before, we know it’s a horror movie and we can be pretty sure that there is something down there — only the characters don’t know about it.

III. The Importance of Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony is often used for laughs — our extra information makes the characters appear ridiculous because we know what they’re doing won’t work. Perhaps more often, though, it’s a way of building tension. When we have information the characters don’t have, we want to shout a warning through the screen. Audience members end up on the edge of their seats, anticipating that something terrible is going to happen that the characters can’t see coming. There’s something about this tension that reminds us of our own vulnerability — after all, if the character on screen can’t see the murder creeping up behind them, then maybe you can’t either…

Every once in a while, dramatic irony can be used to give a little bonus to people who know the series well. Take the flashback episode of Firefly , when we see Zoe and Wash meet for the first time. Fans of the show know that the two of them will end up married, but if it was your first time watching you might miss out on the joke.

IV. Examples of of Dramatic Irony in Literature

The ending of Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame contains dramatic irony because Quasimodo (the hunchback) doesn’t realize who the good guys are. He is trying to protect his beloved Esmerelda, but he doesn’t realize that the gypsies are actually coming to save her, not to harm her. We won’t spoil the ending for you, but it’s not the same as what they put in the Disney version…

Most Shakespeare plays have dramatic irony somewhere in them. For example, the title character from Othello is very trusting and keeps saying that he believes in his dear friend, “honest Iago.” We in the audience, though, understand perfectly well that Iago is a traitor who wants nothing more than to bring Othello down.

V. Examples in Popular Culture

Disney’s Mulan is pretty much entirely based on dramatic irony. We know that Mulan is a woman who has disguised herself as a man and joined the army. But the other characters around her have no idea, and there are almost constant jokes based on this deception: for example, the songs “Be a Man” and “A Girl Worth Fighting For.”

In the opening scene of Alfred Hitchcock’s Rope , the two main characters commit a murder and stash the body in a cupboard. The film takes place over the course of a dinner party, and the cupboard with its grisly contents is always in the background. None of the guests know about the murder and there’s constant suspense as we wonder whether they will accidentally find out — or whether one of the murderers, overcome with guilt, will confess. In one particularly tense scene, the conversation turns to a discussion of murder, and the two guilty men grow increasingly nervous.

The sitcom Coupling opens with a clever reversal of dramatic irony. We see Steve getting ready to meet up with his girlfriend, and saying that it’s time to break up with her. Then we see Susan getting ready to meet up with her boyfriend, not sure what he wants. We feel bad for Susan, knowing that she’s about to get dumped. But then it turns out they’re two completely separate characters who don’t even know each other, and they’re about to go out on completely separate dates!

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What is Dramatic Irony? Definition, Examples of Literary Dramatic Irony

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is Dramatic Irony? Definition, Examples of Literary Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony definition: Dramatic irony is a type of irony that exists when the audience knows something regarding the plot that the characters do not know.

What is Dramatic Irony?

What does dramatic irony mean? Dramatic irony is a type of irony.

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not.

Consider a horror film: The audience might know that the “killer” is in the room, but the character does not know. Consequently, the character enters the room with the killer.

This is dramatic irony. If the character knew of the killer’s presence, he would not enter the room. The dramatic irony creates suspense for the audience.

Dramatic Irony vs. Situational and Verbal Irony

What is Situational Irony?

Situational irony exists when there is a contradiction between what is expected and what actually occurs.

Example of Situational Irony:

• The firehouse burns down.

This is situational irony because one would not expect the firehouse to ever burn down. In fact, that is perhaps the opposite of the expectation. Therefore, there is a contradiction between what is expected (firehouse to remain standing and well-protected) and what actually occurs (firehouse burns down).

Please note, situational irony and coincidence are not the same thing. Coincidence is a completely accidental event and does not require an expectation. For situational irony to exist, there must be an expectation that is contradicted.

What is Verbal Irony?

Example of Verbal Irony:

• I was thrilled when my date spilled his wine on my dress.

This is verbal irony because the meaning (or intention) of this statement is actually the opposite. Clearly, the speaker is not thrilled that this occurred.

Sometimes, verbal irony is written in italics to demonstrate an emphasis in speech, denoting the figurative intent.

The Function of Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony offers a “window” to the plot that makes the audience members feel connected to the text.

Knowing information that characters do not does not mean the plot is a giveaway. On the contrary—knowing additional information usually encourages the audience to be more involved in a text instead of turned away.

Examples of Dramatic Irony in Literature

Example of Dramatic Irony:

Act 2 of Hamlet offers dramatic irony.

Hamlet concocts an idea to see if his uncle murdered his father. This involves a “play within a play” where the players will act out the murder as Hamlet believe it occurred.

Hamlet states, “The play’s the thing/Wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.”

King Claudius (Hamlet’s uncle) is not privy to this plot, whereas the audience is. The audience waits in suspense to see how Hamlet’s plan will play out.

This does not mean that the audience knows the course of the plot. In other words, the audience is not aware of how their additional information (provided by dramatic irony) will affect the rest of the text. Rather, dramatic irony creates intrigue.

Define dramatic irony: the definition of dramatic irony is a type of irony that occurs the reader or audience know something that the characters in the story do not know.

In summary, dramatic irony:

• is a type of irony
• occurs when the audience knows something that a character or characters do not
• creates suspense and interest in a text

See Also . . . 👥

Irony – the incongruity between how things appear on the surface and what is true in reality . An example of irony is when someone asks a person with a bad case of food poisoning how they feel and that person replies, “ Wow, I feel great .” The response is ironic because we know anyone suffering from a bad case of food poisoning is not going to feel great. Rather, they would most likely feel terrible. There are three distinct types of irony : Verbal (like the example above) situational , and dramatic .

Dramatic Irony: A Great Literary Device That Adds Suspense to Your Story

by Joslyn Chase | 0 comments

Do you remember the first time you read  Romeo and Juliet ? Did you cringe when Romeo kills himself, knowing that Juliet is still alive? This is a perfect example of how to use dramatic irony in your story—a literary device that will inevitably add suspense to your novel.

Dramatic irony can be used in any story regardless of genre, but it is especially useful when writing stories where you really want to increase tension and suspense.

In this article, you’ll learn about dramatic irony, another useful technique for keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Different Types of Irony

Irony is an excellent storytelling tool, but it’s a broad concept that covers multiple forms.

Verbal irony deals with the true meaning of a character’s words being the opposite of what they say.

For instance, if your dieting character says, “Wonderful! A hot fudge sundae is just what I need,” readers understand that a hot fudge sundae is exactly the last thing they needed.

Situational irony, on the other hand, sets up a pattern of cause-and-effect events that backfire. Your character misperceives a situation and acts on the basis of that misconception. As a result, the character experiences unanticipated consequences.

For example, in The Lion King , Simba believes he is responsible for King Mufasa’s death. Based on that mistaken idea, he banishes himself from the kingdom. In doing so, he leaves the kingdom in the tyrannical control of the one who really did kill the king—a tragic irony.

Both of these types of irony are great tools for story building, but today, I'd like to teach you about another type of irony—dramatic irony. You'll learn what it is and how to weave this literary technique into your suspense stories.

Dramatic Irony Literary Definition

In the Romeo and Juliet example above, the reason we cringe as readers when Romeo kills himself is because we know something he doesn't. Something that would change everything and bring a happy ending if he would only hang on long enough to discover it for himself.

But he doesn't. And therein lies the rub.

How Do Stories Use Dramatic Irony?

Delivering information in the proper sequence of events is critical to telling a good story—that means knowing what information to deliver to the reader and when and how to reveal it.

In a “whodunit” type mystery, the POV character sometimes interprets clues a little ahead of the reader, creating curiosity and a desire in the reader to “catch up” and solve the mystery alongside the sleuth.

In some types of suspense fiction, the character and reader discover and understand information at the same time, virtually thinking through it together.

In cases of dramatic irony, the reader is a little ahead of the character, understanding something the character doesn’t. This can be a superb way to create nail-biting suspense.

For instance, let's say you're reading a psychological suspense novel, and you know the killer is the protagonist's favorite uncle, but she doesn't suspect him. Your superior knowledge pumps up the suspense in every scene involving the two of them because you see the danger she doesn't.

Dramatic Irony on the Page, Stage, and Screen

The immediate and clear example of dramatic irony is in every horror movie you’ve ever seen. We in the audience have been shown the serial killer waiting in the bushes or driving the car that stops for the hitchhiker. We scream, “No, don’t get in the car!” or “Get away from the bushes!”

We have more information than the character, allowing us to make predictions they can’t. That’s dramatic irony.

The stories we love are full of dramatic irony. It gets its name from the ancient Greek dramas in which it featured so prevalently.

For example, in the Sophocles play, Oedipus Rex, King Oedipus swears vengeance on the killer of the former king, Laius. We in the audience know that Oedipus himself is that killer, and we watch with tense excitement to see how he makes the discovery and resolves the dilemma.

Shakespeare made free use of dramatic irony in many of his plays. In Macbeth, the prophecy of the witches puts the audience in the know while poor Duncan remains ignorant, bestowing on Macbeth his absolute trust, which leads to his demise.

Viewers of The Hand That Rocks the Cradle know from the beginning that Peyton, the innocent-looking nanny, is really a poisonous schemer intent on destroying the family. This creates an incredible sense of tension and drives the story forward with viewers hanging on every moment to see what happens.

See how stories use dramatic irony in this article. Tweet this

Joslyn Chase

Any day where she can send readers to the edge of their seats, prickling with suspense and chewing their fingernails to the nub, is a good day for Joslyn. Pick up her latest thriller, Steadman's Blind , an explosive read that will keep you turning pages to the end. No Rest: 14 Tales of Chilling Suspense , Joslyn's latest collection of short suspense, is available for free at joslynchase.com .

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Last updated on Nov 03, 2022

3 Types of Irony: Tell Them Apart With Confidence (+ Examples)

Irony is when the opposite of what is expected happens. In writing, there are three types of irony — verbal, situational, and dramatic.

• Verbal irony is when a person says one thing but means the opposite;
• Situational irony is when the opposite of what is expected happens; and
• Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something that characters do not.

The term “irony” comes from the Greek word eironeia , meaning "feigned ignorance," and storytellers of all stripes like to use the different forms of irony as a rhetorical or literary device to create suspense, humor, or as the central conceit in a plot.

To help you make heads or tails of this technique, this article will dig into the three common types of irony.

1. Verbal irony

Verbal irony is where the intended meaning of a statement is the opposite of what is actually said. People and literary characters alike use it to express amusement, emphasize a point, or to voice frustration or anger. In literature, verbal irony can create suspense, tension, or a comic effect. 

Verbal irony is actually the type of irony most used in everyday conversation, and can take the form of sarcasm — which is almost always used to denigrate someone or something. Regardless, the two are not the same thing, though many people conflate the concepts. 

To illustrate, here are a few common phrases that perfectly exemplify how verbal irony works — many of them similes comparing two entirely unlike things:

• "Clear as mud."
• "Friendly as a rattlesnake."
• "About as much fun as a root canal."

Understating and overstating

Broadly speaking, verbal irony works by either understating or overstating the gravity of the situation. 

An ironic understatement creates contrast by undermining the impact of something, though the thing itself will be rather substantial or severe. For example, in The Catcher in the Rye , Holden Caulfield casually says, "I have to have this operation. It isn't very serious. I have this tiny little tumor on the brain." Of course, Holden is lying here, which is why he can be so cavalier — and the nonchalant way he downplays something as serious as a brain tumor is ironic.

On the other hand, an ironic overstatement makes something minor sound like a much bigger deal to emphasize a quality it lacks. For example, say you win $5 in a lottery where the grand prize is $100 million. A friend asks you if you won anything, and you say, "Yeah, total jackpot" — that's an ironic overstatement.

💡 Note: Don’t confuse ironic overstatements with hyperbole , the rhetorical device of exaggeration. If a character says "I'm so tired, I could sleep for a million years,” and they are genuinely tired, that isn’t ironic — just exaggerated.

Highlighting a fallacy

Verbal irony is often used for satirical purposes, exaggerating or underplaying descriptions to reveal a deeper truth. Viewed through a lens of overstatement or understatement, the reader can see how flawed the original concept might be.

Verbal irony can be found in the very first lines of Romeo and Juliet (a play riddled with irony).

Two households, both alike in dignity, In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.

Though the first line may sound respectful, we can see by the end of this verse that Shakespeare doesn’t actually mean to say that both households are alike in their great dignity. Instead, these lines imply the total opposite — that both households are equally un dignified. This irony also serves another purpose: notifying first-time readers that not all that glitters is gold. While both families might technically be considered nobility, their shared inability to act nobly toward one another ultimately leads to a bitter end for our tragic heroes .

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Providing insight into characters

Dialogue is an incredible tool for revealing what a character is like as how they choose to say something can speak volumes about who they are. Very often, people who use verbal irony tend to be highly self-aware.

For example, in Casablanca, the corrupt (yet charming) police captain Louis Renault follows instructions from German officials to order a raid on Rick's nightclub under the pretext of closing an illegal gambling den. "I'm shocked — shocked! — to find that gambling is going on in here!" Renault exclaims while thanking Rick’s croupier for bringing him his winnings. This knowing overstatement of 'shocked' reveals a lot about his cheerfully cynical worldview.

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Creating a comic effect

Of course, verbal irony can also be used for a simple comic result. Whether it's to highlight a witty character, lighten tension during a dark or difficult scene, or just to make people laugh, verbal irony can provide a much-needed moment of humorous relief. As you might expect, verbal irony is a common joke component.

For example, in Notting Hill , when love interests Anna and Will first meet at his bookshop , he confronts a man who’s trying to steal a book, and very politely threatens to call the police. When he returns to the till to help Anna, she hands over the book she’d like to buy and says “I was gonna steal one, but now I’ve changed my mind.” Obviously, the statement isn’t true — she’s using verbal irony to make light of the situation, diffusing awkwardness and showing her friendly inclination.

2. Situational irony

In literature, situational irony is a literary or plot device occurring when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens. You can use it to create suspense, humor, and surprise in your writing.

You can think of it as “the irony of events” to distinguish from the other types of irony, but it is not the same as coincidence or bad luck (apologies to Alanis Morrisette ). If you buy a new car and then accidentally drive it into a tree, that is coincidental and unlucky, but not ironic. However, if a professional stunt driver crashes into a tree on their way home from receiving a "best driver" award, that is situationally ironic. 

Within the context of a story, why might a writer use situational irony?

Creating a good ol’ fashioned twist

Authors can draw strong reactions from their readers by presenting them with carefully executed twists and turns. A  plot twist is all the more delicious when it's the polar opposite of what you'd typically expect. Storylines based on or containing situational irony inherently possess an element of surprise, so they're common in the comedy, thriller , crime, and mystery genres.

In Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest , for example, Jack proposes to Gwendolen under his fake name of Ernest, hoping to share the truth about his name once he’s been accepted. His plan is quickly thwarted when she accepts him because of his name, telling him that her “ideal has always been to love some one of the name of Ernest.” When he asks her what he thinks of “Jack” as a name, she declares that “The only really safe name is Ernest” — so his plan to reveal the truth is suddenly turned on its head, and he resolves to get christened as soon as possible. 

Emphasizing a theme or moral lesson

Steering readers to an unexpected destination in a story can also emphasize a theme or moral lesson — often reminding readers that an expected outcome is not always guaranteed. And because situational irony can urge readers to think twice about their own assumptions, authors often deploy it in fables or morality tales.

In Aesop's 'The Tortoise and the Hare,' for example, the unexpected outcome teaches us that slow and steady wins the race . Or perhaps the real moral is that you shouldn't be complacent and take naps during races.

Situational irony creates a contrast between appearances and underlying truths. When done properly, this can significantly alter a reader's interaction with, expectations of, and insight into a story. But irony must be used with care: without the help of intonation and body language, it requires people to read between the lines to understand its intentions; a reader who doesn’t see the irony will take these words at face value.

3. Dramatic irony

Dramatic irony occurs when the reader or viewer knows something that the characters in the story do not. This can create a sense of unease or anticipation as the audience waits to see how the characters will react to the situation they are in. 

So, to what effect can dramatic irony be used in a story?

Building fear and suspense

When readers or viewers know more than the characters do, they’re often left on pins and needles, waiting for the other shoe to drop or for an inevitable plot point to appear. Will the character discover the secret we already know? What will happen when they find out the truth? What if they find out the truth too late? Subconsciously, all of these questions run through their minds as the story unfolds, contributing to page-turning suspense.

The Hobbit contains a perfect example of dramatic irony — when Bilbo happens upon the ring while lost on a mountain, he puts it in his pocket and soon afterward encounters Gollum.

At this point, readers understand the significance of the ring and its importance to Gollum. However, Gollum does not yet realize he has lost the ring, and Bilbo doesn’t yet know who the ring belongs to. For this reason, the scene where Bilbo and Gollum engage in a game of riddles becomes more stressful for the audience who understands what’s at stake. 

📚 For some truly impressive suspense-building, check out this list of the 50 best suspense books of all time .

Eliciting sympathy for a character

If a character is happy but we know that tragedy lies ahead, we can’t help but sympathize with them. If the reader or audience is already "rooting for" the characters, they will hold on to the hope that things will turn out okay for them. And whatever the end result is — pain or relief —  the reader is likely to feel it twofold.

The audience knew all along! (image: Touchstone Pictures)

In the modern-day Shakespeare adaptation Ten Things I Hate About You , for example, bad-boy transfer student Patrick is paid by his classmate to woo the cold and aloof Kat. The audience knows that Kat will eventually discover the truth. The deception will wound her, and Patrick will (justifiably) lose her trust. This dramatic irony gives the scenes where they fall in love a bittersweet edge, making us sympathize with both characters. 

In fact, many romance tropes rely on dramatic irony, like the hate-to-love trope — just on account of the characters existing in a romance novel, readers know they're going to end up together. This results in that “slow burn” anticipation where readers are dying to see the characters confess their feelings, but have to live with their impatience as the romance slowly runs its course.

Setting up comical misunderstandings

A lot of comedy comes out of misunderstandings — where a character believes something that the audience knows not to be true, or doesn’t yet know something important. The dramatic irony turns into comedic tension as the character obliviously digs themselves (or other characters) into a deeper hole.

To give you an example of how this works: in a season one episode of Friends , Joey tried to win back his ex-girlfriend Angela by arranging a double date. Hebrings Monica but tells her that Angela’s new boyfriend, Bob, is actually her brother — making it seem as though Bob is Monica’s date. This misunderstanding turns to hilarious confusion as Monica is creeped out by how 'close' Bob and Angela seem to be.

Want more examples and in-depth explanation of any of these types of irony? We’ve spent some time breaking them down even further in the next posts in this guide — starting with verbal irony .

3 responses

Katharine Trauger says:

08/08/2017 – 05:39

I once received a birthday card telling me that irony is the opposite of wrinkly. But I do have a question: I believe, as you related to Hitchcock and I think about his works, that he used irony extensively, even more than one instance in a piece. It's a lot to remember and I've certainly not examined his works to verify that. However, I wonder if, although his works were beyond successful and loved by many, just how much irony is acceptable in today's writing. I agree it is a great device, but can it be overdone? Also, I am writing a piece which has what I believe an ironic ending. Is that a bad place to put a huge departure from the expected? I think O'Henry did that a lot, like when the man sells his watch to buy combs for his wife, and she sells her hair to buy a chain for his watch... But today, how much is too much and will readers come back for more?

↪️ Jim Morrison replied:

20/06/2018 – 21:42

While irony can be overused, it is not a bad thing to use irony - even to end a book. "Story" by Robert McKee discusses irony as an ending and explains how to use it and when to use it. As to your question about how much irony is accepted in today's society, I would say that it is more acceptable than before. With today's writing - particularly in theater - irony is a heavily used element. Thor: Ragnarok, for example, is dripping with ironic situations. Satire, the personal wheelhouse of Vonnegut and Heller, is not only a highbrow version of sarcasm, it is also heavy on the irony. So I say, personally, be as ironic as you want, just, as mentioned in the blog, be careful you don't overuse it to the point that the use of irony becomes ironic (i.e. you lose the audience). Cheers and happy writing.

Naughty Autie says:

30/05/2019 – 15:37

There is a blog which does not allow comments, yet it's called 'The Conversation'. Funny, I always thought that a conversation always took place between multiple people.

Comments are currently closed.

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Irony Definition

What is irony? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how they actually are. If this seems like a loose definition, don't worry—it is. Irony is a broad term that encompasses three different types of irony, each with their own specific definition:  verbal irony ,  dramatic irony , and  situational irony . Most of the time when people use the word irony, they're actually referring to one of these specific types of irony.

Some additional key details about irony:

• The term "irony" comes from the ancient Greek comic character called the "eiron," who pretends ignorance in order to deceive an opponent. 
• Irony overlaps with, but is not identical to, sarcasm and satire . 
• In the last twenty years or so, the term "ironic" has become popular to describe an attitude of detachment or subversive humor, like that of someone who wears a Christmas sweater as a joke. This more recent meaning of ironic is not entirely consistent with the original meaning of irony (a fact which itself might be described as being somewhat ironic). 

Irony Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce irony: eye -run-ee

Irony in Depth

The term "irony" usually refers to three particular types of irony:

• Verbal irony is a figure of speech in which the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. For example, if someone has a painful visit to the dentist and when it's over says, "Well, that was pleasant," they are using verbal irony because the intended meaning of their words (that it  wasn't at all  pleasant) is the opposite of the literal meaning of the words. Verbal irony is the most common form of irony. In fact it is so common that when people mention "irony," they often are actually referring to verbal irony. 
• Dramatic irony  Is a plot device that highlights the difference between a character's understanding of a given situation, and that of the audience. When the audience watching a movie know what's behind that door, but the character in the movie has no idea... that's dramatic irony. 
• Situational irony  refers to an unexpected, paradoxical, or perverse turn of events. It is an example of situational irony when, in the O. Henry story " The Gift of the Magi ," a young wife cuts off her hair in order to buy her husband a chain for his prized watch, but the husband sells his watch to buy his wife a comb for her beautiful hair. 

Although these three kinds of irony may seem very different at first glance, they all share one important quality: a tension between how things appear and how they really are. For a more in-depth look at each of these devices, please visit their individual pages.

Also, it's worth knowing that sometimes instances of irony don't quite fit into any of these categories, and instead align with the more general definition of irony as something that seems to be one way, but is in fact another way. Put more broadly: sometimes irony is verbal irony, sometimes it's dramatic irony, sometimes it's situational irony, and sometimes it's just irony. 

Irony, Sarcasm, and Satire

Besides the three main types of irony described above, two other literary devices—sarcasm and satire—share a lot in common with irony:

• Sarcasm is a bitter, cutting, or mocking taunt used to denigrate a particular person, place, or thing. It can sometimes take the form of verbal irony. For instance, if you were to say to someone who had just cut you in line, "What a polite, civilized person you are!" that would be sarcasm in the form of irony, since your meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning of your words. Sarcasm very often involves irony. However, it doesn't always have to use irony. For instance, when Groucho Marx says "i never forget a face, but in your case I'll be glad to make an exception," he is being sarcastic, but his words, however witty they are, mean exactly what they say. 
• Satire is a form of social or political critique. Like sarcasm, it often makes use of irony, but it isn't always ironic.

You can get more details on both sarcasm and satire at their specific pages.

Irony Examples

All three forms of irony are used very frequently in literature, theater, and film. In addition, sometimes the irony found in any of these mediums is broader and doesn't fit into any of the specific categories, and is instead just general irony. 

Irony in "The Sell Out"

" The Sell Out " by Simon Rich is a short story recently published in the New Yorker that is full of irony. The story is narrated by a Polish Jew named Herschel, who lives in Brooklyn in the early twentieth century. Herschel accidentally preserves himself in brine for one hundred years, and when he is finally discovered, still alive, in 2017, he is introduced to his great-great-grandson, a young man who lives in present-day Brooklyn. On Herschel's first day, the great-great-grandson Simon tells Herschel about computers. Herschel describes the scene (note that Hershel's English isn't all that great):

It takes him long time, but eventually Simon is able to explain. A computer is a magical box that provides endless pleasure for free. Simon is used to constant access to this box—a never-ending flow of pleasures. When the box stops working—or even just briefly slows down—he becomes so enraged that he curses our God, the one who gave us life and brought us forth from Egypt.

This description is a great example of irony in the most general sense. The humor stems from the disparity between what seems to be true to Herschel (that computers are magic pleasure boxes) and what is actually true (that computers are, well, computers, and that people are kind of stupidly addicted to them). The use of irony is effective here because Hershel's description, as outlandish as it is, actually points to something that is  true about the way people use computers. Therefore, the disparity between "what is" and "what appears to be" to Herschel isn't merely a comical error; rather, it's ironic because it actually points to a greater truth about its subject.

Verbal Irony in Don Quixote

One famously ironic work is Miguel de Cervantes's Don Quixote .   At one point, the book's narrator states: 

… historians should and must be precise, truthful and unprejudiced, without allowing self-interest or fear, hostility or affection, to turn them away from the path of truth, whose mother is history.

We can identify the above quotation as an example of verbal irony if we consider that the book's hero, Don Quixote, is fundamentally incapable of distinguishing truth from fiction, and any historian of his life would have to follow a double track of reality and fantasy which continuously overlaps, tangles, and flips. One of the most basic premises of the book is that truth is more difficult to identify than it may seem. Therefore, when the narrator vows to follow the single path of truth, he is being ironic; in reality, he believes this to be impossible. 

Dramatic Irony in Othello

The device of dramatic irony is especially well-suited to the theater, which displays constantly shifting sets, scenes, and characters to a stationary audience that, therefore, often has a more complete or "omniscient" perspective compared to any of the characters. One excellent example of dramatic irony can be found in Shakespeare's  Othello . 

Through the play, the audience watches as Iago plots against his commander Othello, and seeks to make Othello believe that his wife Desdemona has been unfaithful to him. The audience watches as Iago plots to himself and with others. Sometimes Iago even directly reveals his plans to the audience. Meanwhile, Othello continues to trust Iago, and the audience watches as the the plan they know that Iago is pursuing slowly plays out just as he intended, and Othello eventually murders the entirely innocent Desdemona. The way that the play makes the audience aware of Iago's plot, even as Othello is not, means that the play is full of dramatic irony almost for its entire length. 

Situational Irony in The Producers

In this classic film, two friends come up with a complicated money-making scheme in which they put on a play that they think is absolutely certain to fail. Their plan backfires when the play, entitled "Springtime for Hitler," is so shockingly bad that people think it's a comedy and come to see it in droves. This is an example of situational irony because the outcome is the exact opposite of what the play's producers expected.

Why Do Writers Use Irony?

Irony is a tool that can be used for many different purposes. Though sarcasm and satire are two ways of using irony that are primarily negative and critical, ironic statements can also underscore the fragility, complexity, and beauty of human experience.

• Situational irony often demonstrates how human beings are always at the mercy of an unpredictable universe—and that life can always take an unexpected turn.
• Dramatic irony emphasizes that human knowledge is always partial and often incorrect, while giving the reader or viewer the satisfaction of a more complete understanding than that of the characters.
• In dialogue, verbal irony can display one character's sparkling wit, and another character's thickheadedness. Verbal irony can also create a connection between people who  get  the irony, excluding those who don't.

Ultimately, irony is used to create meaning—whether it's humorous or profound—out of the gap between the way things appear and how they actually are.

Other Helpful Irony Resources

• The Wikipedia page on irony : A helpful overview.
• The dictionary definition of irony : A basic definition, with a bit on the etymology.
• The comedian George Carlin explaining the difference  between situational irony and mere coincidence.
• A site with a helpful index of examples of different types of irony in television, film, video games, and other media.

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What is Irony in Writing and How to Effectively Use It

• by Andrea Feccomandi
• March 27, 2024

When you read a book or watch a movie, you often encounter moments that make you think twice. Situations where the outcome is drastically different from what you expected . Or where a character says something that seems to mean the opposite of what they actually feel .

These moments, which can be humorous, poignant, or dramatically significant, are examples of irony , a device you, as a writer, should understand and appreciate for its power to add depth to storytelling.

Irony is a complex, multifaceted element that can transform your narratives, infusing them with subtlety , wit , and intelligence . So, let’s explore irony, unravel its layers, and discover how you can wield it effectively in your writing.

Understanding what irony is in writing

Irony in writing is a rhetorical device that occurs when there’s a marked incongruity or contradiction between what is expected to happen and what actually happens . It’s a way of expressing something often layered with humor, criticism, or poignancy, without stating it outright.

When you use irony in your writing, you create a contrast between expectations and reality . This contrast is not just for comedic effect. It’s a tool that can add complexity to your characters, build tension in your narrative, or provide social commentary.

The key to understanding irony lies in the discrepancy between what is said or done and what is meant or happens.

IRONY DEFINITION IN WRITING What is irony in writing? Irony in writing is a rhetorical device that occurs when there’s a marked incongruity or contradiction between what is expected to happen and what actually happens, or between what is said and what is truly meant. It’s a deliberate gap, orchestrated by you, the writer, between appearance and reality.

Different types of irony in writing

To use irony effectively in your writing, you first need to recognize the different types. Each type has its unique characteristics and effects. These are the main types.

Verbal Irony | Verbal Irony vs. Sarcasm

Verbal irony occurs when what is said is the opposite of what is meant .

This type of irony is often confused with sarcasm . But while all sarcasm is a form of verbal irony, not all verbal irony is sarcastic. Sarcasm typically carries a biting, bitter tone . Verbal irony, instead, can be used more broadly for various effects, including humor and emphasis.

Sarcasm is used to reveal characters’ attitudes and emotions , often in a way that is more impactful than a straightforward statement. It can be a tool for character development, signaling a character’s wit, cynicism, or intelligence. However, it also requires careful handling, as it can easily be misinterpreted or overused.

Situational irony

Situational irony is a stark difference between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs .

This type of irony thrives on unpredictability , presenting a sudden twist of fate that upends conventional expectations and leads to a surprising outcome.

Whether it’s the climactic plot twist in a gripping novel or the unexpected triumph of the underdog in real-life scenarios, situational irony injects a sense of intrigue and fascination into narratives, leaving readers pondering the intricacies of fate and circumstance .

This type of irony hinges on the unexpected—a twist of fate that turns the tables in an unforeseen way.

Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters .

This creates a sense of suspense or humor as you watch characters make decisions based on their incomplete understanding of the truth . It’s a powerful tool in storytelling, as it creates a bond between the writer and the reader, who share knowledge that the characters do not.

Dramatic irony has been used for centuries, from the works of ancient Greek playwrights like Sophocles to modern-day films and television shows. It’s a versatile tool that can be adapted to any genre, adding richness and complexity to the story.

Dramatic irony is especially effective in tragedies and suspenseful stories, heightening the emotional impact of the unfolding events . In tragedies , the audience’s foreknowledge of the inevitable downfall adds to the situation’s pathos. In suspenseful narratives , dramatic irony creates tension as readers or viewers wait with bated breath for the moment when the truth will come to light.

Dramatic irony can also be used in comedy , where the discrepancy between a character’s understanding and the audience’s knowledge can lead to humorous situations .

Why do authors use irony in their writing?

Why do authors use irony in their writing? The reasons are as varied as the types of irony themselves. Irony can serve multiple purposes: to engage readers , to create tension , to highlight contradictions within society , or simply to entertain . Let’s examine the purpose of irony in writing.

• Generate emotions . Irony in writing can generate a range of emotions in the audience , from amusement to sadness to empathy. It can make readers laugh at a situation’s absurdity or feel the sting of a character’s unspoken truth. The meaning of irony lies not just in the contradiction itself but in the response it evokes from the reader.
• Provide a unique voice . Irony can give the author’s narrative a unique voice. It can reflect the personality of your narrator or characters, adding to the authenticity and relatability of their experiences.
• Life’s complexities mirror . Irony in writing reflects the complexities and absurdities of real life, where things are not always what they seem and where truth often lies beneath layers of appearance. It can be a way to cope with the world’s harsh realities, finding humor or insight in the most unexpected places.
• Character development . Dramatic irony can create sympathy or antipathy for characters. Readers may feel a sense of connection with a character unaware of the irony in their situation, or they may feel frustration with a character oblivious to the obvious. Irony adds dimension to your characters, making them more real and relatable to your audience.
• Tool for criticism . Irony allows the writer to tackle serious issues with a lighter touch. It can underscore the folly or hypocrisy of individual characters or societal norms, often making a point more effectively than a straightforward condemnation would.
• Thought-provoking tool . By presenting a contrast between the surface and the underlying truth, the writer invites readers to make judgments and draw conclusions on their own. Irony in writing relies on the audience’s ability to recognize the underlying truth behind the characters’ actions or the situations depicted.

Irony is wasted on the stupid Oscar Wilde

How to use irony in writing effectively

Understanding how to use irony in writing effectively is key to harnessing its full potential. The first step is to decide which type of irony is appropriate for your story and what you want to achieve with it. Once you’ve made this decision, you can craft scenarios and dialogue that incorporate irony in an organic and impactful way.

When using verbal irony , choose your words carefully to ensure the intended meaning is clear to your readers. It’s essential to provide enough context to make the irony evident without being so overt that it loses its subtlety.

With situational irony , set up your readers’ expectations early on, then surprise them with an outcome that is both unexpected and yet, in hindsight, inevitable.

For dramatic irony to be effective, you must carefully control the information flow to your audience . Reveal enough to give readers insight into the situation, but not so much that it spoils the suspense or the emotional impact of the eventual revelation. The key is balance—you want to keep readers engaged and thinking, not frustrated or confused.

Examples of irony in literature

Let’s look at some examples of irony in literature.

Consider the situational irony in O. Henry’s “ The Gift of the Magi ,” where a young couple each sacrifices their most prized possession to buy a gift for the other, only to find that the gifts are useless. This twist adds poignancy to the story and underscores the theme of selfless love.

Verbal irony shines in Jane Austen’s “ Pride and Prejudice, ” where characters often say the opposite of what they truly mean, revealing the social constraints and personal pretensions of the time. Mr. Bennet’s dry wit and Elizabeth’s playful banter are full of ironic statements that add humor and depth to their characters.

Dramatic irony is at its finest in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” where the audience knows that Juliet is not really dead when Romeo finds her. This knowledge makes Romeo’s subsequent actions tragic, as we, the audience, are powerless to intervene and alter the course of the story.

These examples of irony in writing demonstrate how powerful and versatile this literary device can be.

Crafting narrative irony by leveraging bibisco’s story design tools

Incorporating irony, whether it’s situational or dramatic, into your narrative adds depth and complexity to your story, engaging readers on multiple levels. With bibisco’s comprehensive suite of planning and story design tools , writers can strategically implement various forms of irony throughout their narrative.

For instance, the software allows authors to craft scenes with unexpected plot twists meticulously or to establish dramatic tension through clever foreshadowing.

By providing a structured framework for story development, bibisco writing software empowers writers to effectively utilize irony as a powerful storytelling device, enhancing their work’s overall impact and resonance.

Irony is a powerful, multifaceted tool that can enhance your storytelling. It can engage your readers and convey your themes with subtlety and sophistication. Irony allows you to play with readers’ expectations , create surprise and tension, and delve into human nature’s and society’s complexities.

Whether using verbal irony to add wit to your dialogue, situational irony to craft a memorable twist, or dramatic irony to build suspense, mastering the use of irony can make the difference between a story that is merely good and one that is truly great.

Remember, irony in writing is not just about what is said or what happens. It’s about the meaning that lies beneath the surface . As you continue to explore and experiment with this literary device, you’ll discover new ways to surprise and delight your readers.

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Definition of Irony

Irony is a literary device in which contradictory statements or situations reveal a reality that is different from what appears to be true. There are many forms of irony featured in literature. The effectiveness of irony as a literary device depends on the reader’s expectations and understanding of the disparity between what “should” happen and what “actually” happens in a literary work. This can be in the form of an unforeseen outcome of an event, a character ’s unanticipated behavior, or something incongruous that is said.

One of the most famous examples of irony in literature comes from The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. In this story , a newly married couple decides independently to sacrifice and sell what means most to themselves in order to purchase a Christmas gift for the other. Unfortunately, the gifts they receive from each other are intended for the very prized possessions they both sold. As a result, though their sacrifices symbolize the love they have for each other, the actual gifts they receive are all but useless.

Common Examples of Irony

Many common phrases and situations reflect irony. Irony often stems from an unanticipated response ( verbal irony ) or an unexpected outcome ( situational irony ). Here are some common examples of verbal and situational irony:

• Verbal Irony
• Telling a quiet group, “don’t speak all at once”
• Coming home to a big mess and saying, “it’s great to be back”
• Telling a rude customer to “have a nice day”
• Walking into an empty theater and asking, “it’s too crowded”
• Stating during a thunderstorm, “beautiful weather we’re having”
• An authority figure stepping into the room saying, “don’t bother to stand or anything”
• A comedian telling an unresponsive audience , “you all are a great crowd”
• Describing someone who says foolish things as a “genius”
• Delivering bad news by saying, “the good news is”
• Entering a child’s messy room and saying “nice place you have here”
• Situational Irony
• A fire station that burns down
• Winner of a spelling bee failing a spelling test
• A t-shirt with a “Buy American” logo that is made in China
• Marriage counselor divorcing the third wife
• Sending a Christmas card to someone who is Jewish
• Leaving a car wash at the beginning of a downpour
• A dentist needing a root canal
• Going on a blind date with someone who is visually impaired
• A police station being burglarized
• Purchasing a roll of stamps a day before the price to send a letter increases

Examples of Irony in Plot

Irony is extremely useful as a plot device. Readers or viewers of a plot that includes irony often call this effect a “twist.” Here are some examples of irony in well-known plots:

• The Wizard of Oz (L. Frank Baum): the characters already have what they are asking for from the wizard
• Time Enough at Last (episode of “The Twilight Zone”): the main character, who yearns to be left alone to read, survives an apocalyptic explosion but breaks his reading glasses
• Oedipus Rex (Sophocles): Oedipus is searching for a murderer who, it turns out, is himself
• The Cask of Amontillado ( Edgar Allan Poe ): the character “Fortunato” meets with a very unfortunate fate
• Hansel and Gretel (Grimm fairy tale ): the witch, who intended to eat Hansel ad Gretel, is trapped by the children in her own oven

Real Life Examples of Irony

Think you haven’t heard of any examples of irony in real life? Here are some instances of irony that have taken place:

• It is reported that Lady Nancy Astor once said to Winston Churchill that if he were her husband, she would poison his tea. In response, Churchill allegedly said, “Madam, if I were your husband, I’d drink it.”
• Sweden’s Icehotel, built of snow and ice, contains fire alarms.
• Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia is the official name for fear of long words
• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is considered an anti-censorship novel , and it is one of the most consistently banned books in the United States.
• A retired CEO of the Crayola company suffered from colorblindness.
• Many people claimed and/or believed that the Titanic was an “unsinkable” ship.
• There is a hangover remedy entitled “hair of the dog that bit you” that involves consuming more alcohol.
• George H.W. Bush reportedly stated, “I have opinions of my own, strong opinions, but I don’t always agree with them.”

Difference Between Verbal Irony, Dramatic Irony, and Situational Irony

Though there are many forms of irony as a literary device, its three main forms are verbal, dramatic, and situational. Verbal irony sets forth a contrast between what is literally said and what is actually meant. In dramatic irony , the state of the action or what is happening as far as what the reader or viewer knows is the reverse of what the players or characters suppose it to be. Situational irony refers to circumstances that turn out to be the reverse of what is expected or considered appropriate.

Essentially, verbal and situational irony are each a violation of a reader’s expectations and conventional knowledge. When it comes to verbal irony, the reader may be expecting a character’s statement or response to be one thing though it turns out to be the opposite. For situational irony, the reader may anticipate an event’s outcome in one way though it turns out to happen in a completely different way.

Dramatic Irony is more of a vicarious violation of expectations or knowledge. In other words, the reader/audience is aware of pertinent information or circumstances of which the actual characters are not. Therefore, the reader is left in suspense or conflict until the situation or information is revealed to the characters involved. For example, a reader may be aware of a superhero’s true identity whereas other characters may not know that information. Dramatic irony allows a reader the advantage of knowing or understanding something that a particular character or group of characters does not.

Writing Irony

Overall, as a literary device, irony functions as a means of portraying a contrast or discrepancy between appearance and reality. This is effective for readers in that irony can create humor and suspense, as well as showcase character flaws or highlight central themes in a literary work.

It’s essential that writers bear in mind that their audience must have an understanding of the discrepancy between appearance and reality in their work. Otherwise, the sense of irony is lost and ineffective. Therefore, it’s best to be aware of the reader or viewer’s expectations of reality in order to create an entirely different and unexpected outcome.

Here are some ways that writers benefit from incorporating irony into their work:

Plot Device

Irony in various forms is a powerful plot device. Unexpected events or character behaviors can create suspense for readers, heighten the humor in a literary work, or leave a larger impression on an audience. As a plot device, irony allows readers to re-evaluate their knowledge, expectations, and understanding. Therefore, writers can call attention to themes in their work while simultaneously catching their readers off-guard.

Method of Reveal

As a literary device, irony does not only reveals unexpected events or plot twists . It serves to showcase disparity in the behavior of characters, making them far more complex and realistic. Irony can also reveal preconceptions on the part of an audience by challenging their assumptions and expectations. In this sense, it is an effective device for writers.

Difference Between Irony and Sarcasm

Although irony encapsulates several things including situations, expressions, and actions, sarcasm only involves the use of language that is in the shape of comments. Whereas irony could be non-insulting for people, sarcasm essentially means ridiculing somebody or even insulting somebody. Therefore, it is fair to state that although sarcasm could be a part of an element of irony, the irony is a broad term, encompassing several items or ingredients of other devices in it.

Use of Irony in Sentences

• A traffic cop gets suspended for not paying his parking tickets.
• “Father of Traffic Safety” William Eno invented the stop sign, crosswalk, traffic circle, one-way street, and taxi stand—but never learned how to drive.
• Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone but refused to keep one in his study. He feared it would distract him from his work.
• Alan has been a marriage counselor for 10 years and he’s just filing for divorce.
• Oh, fantastic! Now I cannot attend the party I had been waiting for 3 months.

Examples of Irony in Literature

Irony is a very effective literary device as it adds to the significance of well-known literary works. Here are some examples of irony:

Example 1:  The Necklace (Guy de Maupassant)

“You say that you bought a necklace of diamonds to replace mine?” “Yes. You never noticed it, then! They were very like.” And she smiled with a joy which was proud and naïve at once. Mme. Forestier, strongly moved, took her two hands. “Oh, my poor Mathilde! Why, my necklace was paste. It was worth at most five hundred francs!”

In his short story , de Maupassant utilizes situational irony to reveal an unexpected outcome for the main character Mathilde who borrowed what she believed to be a diamond necklace from her friend Mme. Forestier to wear to a ball. Due to vanity and carelessness, Mathilde loses the necklace. Rather than confess this loss to her friend, Mathilde and her husband replace the necklace with another and thereby incur a debt that takes them ten years of labor to repay.

In a chance meeting, Mathilde learns from her friend that the original necklace was fake. This outcome is ironic in the sense that Mathilde has become the opposite of the woman she wished to be and Mme. Forestier is in possession of a real diamond necklace rather than a false one. This ending may cause the reader to reflect on the story’s central themes, including pride, authenticity, and the price of vanity.

Example 2:  Not Waving but Drowning  (Stevie Smith)

Nobody heard him, the dead man, But still he lay moaning: I was much further out than you thought And not waving but drowning .

Example 3:  A Modest Proposal (Jonathan Swift)

A child will make two dishes at an entertainment for friends; and when the family dines alone, the fore or hind quarter will make a reasonable dish, and seasoned with a little pepper or salt will be very good boiled on the fourth day, especially in winter .

Swift makes use of verbal irony in his essay in which he advocates eating children as a means of solving the issue of famine and poverty . Of course, Swift does not literally mean what he is saying. Instead, his verbal irony is used to showcase the dire situation faced by those who are impoverished and their limited resources or solutions. In addition, this irony is meant as a call to action among those who are not suffering from hunger and poverty to act in a charitable way towards those less fortunate.

Example 4: 1984 by George Orwell

War is Peace ; Freedom is Slavery and Ignorance is Strength .

There are several types of irony involved in the novel, 1984 , by George Orwell . The very first example is the slogan given at the beginning of the novel. This slogan is “ War is Peace ; Freedom is Slavery and Ignorance is Strength.” Almost every abstract idea is given beside or parallels to the idea that is contrary to it. These oxymoronic statements show the irony latent in them that although Oceania is at war, yet it is stressing the need for peace and the same is the case with others that although all are slaves of the state, they are calling it freedom. This is verbal irony.

Another example is that of situational irony. It is in the relationship of Winston and Julia that he secretly cherishes to have sexual advances toward her but outwardly hates her. When Julia finds that the place where it must be shunned, Junior Anti-Sex League, is the best place for such actions to do in hiding, it becomes a situational irony.

Synonyms of Irony

Some of the most known synonyms of irony are sarcasm, sardonicism, bitterness, cynicism, mockery, ridicule, derision, scorn, sneering, wryness, or backhandedness.

Related posts:

• Dramatic Irony
• 10 Examples of Irony in Shakespeare
• 15 Irony Examples in Disney Movies
• 11 Examples of Irony in Children’s Literature
• 12 Thought Provoking Examples of Irony in History
• Top 12 Examples of Irony in Poetry
• 10 Irony Examples in Shakespeare
• Romeo and Juliet Dramatic Irony
• Brevity is the Soul of Wit
• To Thine Own Self Be True
• Frailty, Thy Name is Woman
• My Kingdom for a Horse
• Lady Doth Protest too Much
• The Quality of Mercy is Not Strain’d
• Ignorance is Strength

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What is irony? Well, it’s like rain on your wedding day. It’s a free ride, when you’ve already paid. ’90s radio is helpful here.

Okay; but what is irony? It can often be easier to point to specific ironies than to find a definition of irony itself that hits home.

Irony definition: contradiction of our perceived reality.

At root, irony involves contradiction of our perceived reality. This powerful literary device is often misunderstood or misused, but when wielded correctly, it can reveal deeper truths by highlighting the many strange contradictions and juxtapositions woven through life.

This article examines the different types of irony in literature, including dramatic irony, situational irony, verbal irony, and others. Along the way, we look at different irony examples in literature, and end on tips for using this device in your own writing.

But first, let’s further clarify what this tricky writing technique means. What is irony in literature?

Irony Definition: Contents

Irony Definition: What is Irony in Literature?

Irony vs. sarcasm, irony vs. satire, different types of irony in literature, dramatic irony definition, situational irony definition, verbal irony definition, irony in poetry, types of irony in literature: venn diagram, other types of irony in literature, using irony in your own writing.

Irony occurs when a moment of dialogue or plot contradicts what the audience expects from a character or story. In other words, irony in literature happens when the opposite of what you’d expect actually occurs.

Irony definition: a moment in which the opposite of what’s expected actually occurs; a contrast between “what seems to be” and “what is.”

To put it another way: irony is a contrast between “what seems to be” and “what is.”

For example, let’s say you’re having an awful day. You got stuck in traffic, your head hurt, it was storming all afternoon, the deli messed up your lunch order, and your son’s school called to say he got in a fight. Finally, you get home and check your email, and see a message from the dream job you just interviewed for. You’re expecting the worst, because it’s been such a crappy day, and—you got the job.

As a literary technique, this device primarily accomplishes two goals. First, it allows you to juxtapose contradictory ideas in your writing. By diverging from what the reader or character expects, an ironic plot or dialogue exchange allows opposing ideas to sit side-by-side, creating a fertile space for interpretation and creative inquiry.

Second, irony in literature emulates real life. We’ve all had days like the one described above, where everything seems awful and suddenly the best news reaches us (or vice versa). The real world follows no logical trajectory, and we find ourselves surrounded by competing ideas and realities. Irony makes talking about these contradictions possible.

Because both irony and sarcasm come across as wry statements about certain situations, people often confuse the two terms. However, sarcasm has a much narrower use.

Sarcasm only occurs in dialogue: you can speak something with sarcasm, but an event cannot be sarcastic. Additionally, sarcasm is usually intended to be mean or point at the folly of a certain person. By speaking wryly or ironically about another person’s faults, an individual’s use of sarcasm will often be insulting or derogatory, even if both parties understand that the sarcasm is simple banter. (Sarcasm comes from the Greek for “cutting flesh.”)

For example, let’s say someone you know just came to a very obvious or delayed realization. You might say to them “nice thinking, Einstein,” obviously implying that their intelligence is on the other side of the bell curve.

So, the difference between irony vs. sarcasm is that sarcasm is a verbal insult that points towards someone’s flaws ironically, whereas irony encompasses contradictory ideas, statements, and events. As such, sarcasm is sometimes a form of irony, but only partially falls under a much broader umbrella.

Satire is another term that’s often confused with irony and sarcasm. Satire, like sarcasm, is a form of expression; but, satire is also a literary genre with its own complex history.

Satire is the art of mocking human follies. Often, satire has the goal of critiquing or correcting those follies. A good piece of satire will hold a mirror up against the reader, against politicians, or against society at large. By recognizing, perhaps, our own logical fallacies or erroneous ways of living, satire hopes to help people live more honest, moral lives (as defined by the satirist).

Irony is certainly an element of good satire. We all act in contradictory or hypocritical ways. Irony in satire helps the satirist illuminate those contradictions. But, the two are fundamentally different: irony notices contradictions, whereas satire wields this and other devices to mock human follies.

Learn more about satire (and how to write it!) here:

Satire Definition: How to Write Satire

There are, primarily, three different types of irony in literature: dramatic, situational, and verbal irony. Each form has its own usage in literature, and there are also many sub-types of irony that fall under each of these categories.

For now, let’s define each type and look at specific irony examples in literature.

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the story’s characters do not. As such, fictional characters make erroneous decisions and face certain avoidable consequences. If only they had known what the audience knows!

Dramatic irony definition: when the audience knows something that the story’s characters do not, resulting in poor decision making or ironic consequences.

You will most likely find dramatic irony examples in plays, screenplays, and other forms of theater. Shakespeare employs this device often, as do playwrights like Henrik Ibsen, Tennessee Williams, and the filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock. Nonetheless, fiction writers also employ dramatic irony, particularly when the story involves multiple narrative points of view .

Dramatic Irony Examples in Literature

Shakespeare was truly a master of dramatic irony, as he employed the device to entertain, captivate, and frustrate his audience.

In Romeo & Juliet , Juliet is apparently dead, having taken a strong sleeping potion, and is laid in the Capulet crypt. The message was supposed to be conveyed to Romeo that, upon her waking, the two would run off together. But, this message never arrives, so when Romeo hears of Juliet’s death and goes to her tomb to mourn, he kills himself with poison. The audience knows that Juliet is just asleep, making Romeo’s death a particularly tragic example of dramatic irony.

A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket is also laden with dramatic irony examples. In The Reptile Room , the narrator addresses this directly:

Of course, this is a series written towards children, so the direct translation of what dramatic irony means might seem a bit juvenile for adult fiction writers. Nonetheless, this excerpt defines the precise feeling that dramatic irony can bestow upon the reader, illustrating it through the contrast of Uncle Monty’s dialogue against the impending doom the Baudelaires face.

(Note: this is not an example of verbal irony, because Uncle Monty’s dialogue is not intentionally contradicting what he means. More on this later in the article.)

Also known as irony of fate, of events, or of circumstance, situational irony describes plot events with unexpected or contradictory outcomes.

Situational irony definition: plot events with unexpected or contradictory outcomes.

Let’s say, for example, your local fire department burns down. Or the new moisturizer you bought actually wrinkles your skin. Or, heaven forbid, you finish working on your manuscript, click “save” for the final time, and your laptop completely shuts down. All of these possibilities point towards the unpredictability of the future—as do the below situational irony examples in literature.

Situational Irony Examples in Literature

Situational irony happens when a certain event or reaction is expected, and an entirely contradictory one occurs.

For example, in the story “ The Gift of the Magi ” by O. Henry, two young lovers have no money to spare, but are trying to find each other the perfect Christmas gift. The girl, Della, has beautiful hair, which she cuts and sells to buy Jim a fob chain for his watch. Jim, in turn, sells his watch to buy Della some combs for her hair. As a result, each lover’s gift turns out to be useless, since each has sold their most prized possession to show their love to each other.

The narrator summarizes this beautiful moment of situational irony thus:

Of course, ironic situations occur all the time in real life, so there are many situational irony examples in nonfiction. This excerpt comes from the essay “ My Mother’s Eyes ” by Henriette Lazaridis:

Certainly, the speaker would not expect to see herself resembled in her mother’s gaunt, dying face, but that’s exactly what happens. This moment of situational irony encourages the reader to examine the relationship between death, family, and heritage.

Verbal irony refers to the use of dialogue where one thing is spoken, but a contrasting meaning is intended. The key word here is intentional: verbal irony is not merely lying or speaking a faux pas, it’s an intentional use of contrasting language to describe something in particular.

Verbal irony definition: An instance of dialogue where one thing is spoken, but a contrasting meaning is intended.

We do this all the time in conversational English. For example, you might walk into a storm and say “wonderful weather we’re having!” Or, if someone is wearing a jacket you love, you might say “that’s hideous!”

We’ve already contrasted irony vs. sarcasm, so as you may have inferred, verbal irony can sometimes be a form of sarcasm. (For example, telling someone with an ugly shirt “nice shirt!”) That said, verbal irony is not always sarcasm, so remember that sarcasm is intentionally used to insult someone’s folly.

Verbal Irony Examples in Literature

Because verbal irony is always spoken, you will almost always see this device utilized in dialogue. (The only time it isn’t used in dialogue is when a narrator, usually first person, speaks to the audience ironically.)

In George Bernard Shaws’ Pygmalian , Professor Higgins’ housekeeper has just told the professor not to swear. To this he replies:

You and I might not think “what the devil” counts as swearing, but it’s certainly ironic for Professor Higgins to invoke the devil after claiming he never swears.

Many more verbal irony examples come to us, again, from Shakespeare. In Othello , the character Iago—a complex antagonist who feigns loyalty to Othello but seeks his demise—proclaims “My lord, you know I love you.” The audience knows that Iago hates Othello, but Othello himself does not know this, making this bit of dialogue particularly ironic.

In a different Shakespeare play, Julius Caesar , Caesar describes Brutus (his later-betrayer) as an “honorable man.” At this point, the audience knows that Brutus plans to join the conspiracy to kill Caesar.

With verbal irony, sometimes the dialogue is understood as ironic by the other characters, and sometimes only by the audience. Either way, an attentive reader will recognize when a character means the opposite of what they say, or when their intentions simply do not align with their speech.

Most of the irony examples in this article have come from fiction. But, poets certainly make use of this literary device as well, though often much more subtly.

Irony occurs in poetry when the poet wants to illuminate contradictions or awkward juxtapositions. T. S. Eliot gives us a great example in “ The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock .” The speaker describes a beautiful evening as “a patient etherized on a table.” It’s a rather dramatic metaphor , incongruous with the beauty of the evening itself. Eliot’s poem is, among other things, a lament of modernity, which he believes is corrupting all the beauty in the world. By using a modern medical procedure to describe the natural world, Eliot’s hyperbolic metaphor imparts a subtle, yet vicious, irony about the modern day.

Of course, irony can operate in poetry in much more obvious ways. Here’s an example from Louise Glück, “ Telemachus’ Detachment “:

When I was a child looking at my parents’ lives, you know what I thought? I thought heartbreaking. Now I think heartbreaking, but also insane. Also very funny.

Telemachus is, in Greek mythology, the son of Odysseus and Penelope. This short poem is a commentary on that wild myth (The Odyssey). It is also deeply relatable to any child wondering at their parents’ insane ways of living. It is a poem whose central device is irony, and it uses this device to draw a connection between myth and reality, which are much more similar to one another than they seem.

You may have heard of some other types of irony, such as socratic, historical, or cosmic irony. These forms are technically subcategories of the above 3, but it is useful to make these distinctions, especially as they relate to particular genres of literature.

Cosmic irony in literature: an instance where a character’s outcome in the story is outside of their control. For example, in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles , the titular Tess is a mostly-innocent protagonist to whom one thing after another goes wrong. Despite her innocence, a malevolent series of misfortunes forces her to murder someone, resulting in her imprisonment and execution. The narrator then writes that “Justice was done, and the President of the Immortals, in Aeschylean phrase, had ended his sport with Tess.” In other words, Tess is the plaything of fate, and the justice bestowed upon her is extremely ironic, given she is the victim of poor circumstance. This is a subcategory of situational irony (although the narrator’s use of the word Justice is, indeed, verbal irony).

Historical irony in literature: a situation that, in hindsight, was deeply ironic. There are countless examples of this in the real world. For example, gunpowder was invented by Chinese alchemists searching for the elixir of life—if anything, they created an elixir of death. Or, the introduction of the Kudzu vine in the United States was intended to prevent soil erosion, particularly after the dust bowl in the 1930s. Kudzu became an invasive species, choking plants of resources instead of preserving the ecosystem. This form of situational irony occurs countless times in history, showing up whenever a person’s or government’s decision backfires tremendously.

Socratic irony in literature:  the use of verbal irony as part of the Socratic method. The teacher will either pretend to be dumb, or pretend that the student is wise, to draw out the flaws in a student’s argument. While you don’t see this often in literature, it’s a possible rhetorical strategy for teachers, lawyers, and even comedians.

The discrepancy between “what seems to be” and “what is” can prove particularly useful for writers. Irony helps writers delay the reveal of crucial information, challenge the reader’s worldview, and juxtapose contradictory ideas and themes. As such, this literary device can pull together your stories and plays, so long as you wield it effectively and with discretion.

Here are some possibilities for your writing:

Building tension

When the audience knows something that the characters don’t, we can only watch in horror as those characters make ill-informed decisions.

Playing with fate

Why do bad things happen to good people? A commentary on fate—or, at the very least, the seeming randomness of the universe—often goes hand-in-hand with this literary device.

Stringing the plot forward

If every character made perfect decisions, there would be no plot. Irony helps throw characters into challenging, even preventable situations, forcing the story to reckon with that character’s imperfections.

Generating conflict

For many stories, conflict is the engine that drives the plot forward. When a character’s actions and words don’t match, or when the world’s treatment of a character is opposite that character’s moral purity, a good story ensues.

Challenging the reader

What does it mean for society when a fire department burns down, a lung doctor smokes cigarettes, or a government causes chaos by trying to instill democracy? These themes are aided and expounded by the use of irony in literature.

Entertaining exchanges

Whether the narrator speaks wryly to the audience, or two characters have witty banter, verbal irony certainly makes a text more entertaining.

Juxtaposition

What does it mean to love the person you hate? Can justice be served to the most unjust of human beings? The juxtaposition of contradictory themes allows us to examine the world with nuance, discretion, and creativity.

Making fiction true-to-life

We all find ourselves from time to time in the midst of ironic situations. Including irony in your stories isn’t just a clever literary device, it’s an attempt at making your stories as believable as possible.

Master the Different Types of Irony at Writers.com

Does the irony work in your writing? How can you tell? Getting the feedback you need from experienced writers is essential to polishing your craft. Take a look at the upcoming writing courses at Writers.com, where you’ll find the expertise and creativity that takes your writing to the next level.

Sean Glatch

Excellent explanation of terms that are easy to confuse

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• Scriptwriting

What is Dramatic Irony? Definition and Examples for Screenwriters

• 3 Types of Irony
• What is Tragic Irony
• Stages of Dramatic Irony
• Understatement
• Overstatement
• Socratic Irony
• Cosmic Irony
• Poetic Justice
• Structural Irony
• Historical Irony
• (FREE E-Book) Irony Explained: The Ultimate Guide

D ramatic irony is one of the three main types of irony. Like verbal and situational irony, dramatic irony is an integral element of storytelling. The power a writer or director can yield with a firm grasp of dramatic irony is huge. But w hat is dramatic irony and how does it work?

In this article, we’re going to define dramatic irony. We will also discuss the stages of dramatic irony and a subtype called tragic irony. By the end, you’ll know how to implement dramatic irony in your own works.

Watch: The Ultimate Guide to Irony

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Let’s Define Dramatic Irony Meaning

Introducing dramatic irony.

Let’s begin with a quick definition of dramatic irony. Dramatic irony isn’t exactly a difficult concept to understand, but it is difficult to master. In simplest terms: dramatic irony is whenever we’re “in on the secret” of a story. Let’s listen to educator Christopher Warner explain dramatic irony in his own words.

What is Dramatic Irony?  •  Dramatic Irony Definition Explained

“Dramatic irony is when the audience seems to know more about an event, a situation, or a conversation than the characters do,” Warner said. Because of this, dramatic irony serves an integral role in engaging storytelling. We’re going to break down some dramatic irony examples in a bit, but first, let’s define dramatic irony.

Dramatic Irony Definition

What is dramatic irony.

Dramatic irony is when the audience understands more about a situation than some of the characters do. Oftentimes, this understanding leads to an element of suspense because we know the character(s) will learn the truth eventually – but we don't know when or how.

Dramatic irony can be deployed in many ways and in many genres. Comedy, horror, suspense, thrillers, and dramas can all benefit from the use of dramatic irony.

What are the stages of dramatic irony?

• Preparation 

Dramatic Irony Definition and Examples

For a complete guide to irony, download our FREE ebook covering the types of irony, examples, and how writers wield it.

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Free download , ultimate guide to irony.

Irony is an essential literary device that all writers should master.  Download our FREE e-book to get in-depth explanations and examples on topics like the major types and sub-types of irony, and the myriad of ways writers can use it to enrich their storytelling.

What is Dramatic Irony Used For?

Conceptual dramatic irony examples.

When the audience knows something the characters don’t, tension is created. We lean in closer and our engagement increases. Of course, for dramatic irony to really be effective, we need to build sympathy for the characters and establish stakes that the audience will care about. 

Here are some simple examples of dramatic irony:

• Two characters kill their former classmate – then hide his body in a wooden chest and host a dinner party. We know the body is in the chest but the partygoers do not.
• The cabin in the woods is a staging ground for an ancient ritual. We know the cabin is part of an experiment, but the characters do not.
• The protagonist is secretly the star of a show. We know he’s on TV but he does not.

Now let’s look at how these instances of dramatic irony apply to famous movies:

• In Rope , Brandon and Phillip murder their former classmate David, then host a dinner party. We know David was strangled to death, but the partygoers – who largely consist of his family – do not.
• In The Cabin in the Woods , a group of scientists lure five archetypal teens to an abandoned cabin to stage an ancient ritual. We know the five teens are part of a ritual, but they do not.
• In The Truman Show , Truman Burbank is unknowingly the star of a 24/7 TV show. We know that Truman is under constant-watch, but he does not. 

In all of these stories, the truth is revealed – but the tension that’s created by concealing the “secret” is what drives the story. Now that we’ve looked at some simple examples of dramatic irony, let’s break down the term in further detail.

Dramatic Irony Literary Definition

Dramatic irony examples in literature.

Dramatic irony has played an important role in literature and stage plays for hundreds of years. Take William Shakespeare for example: many of his plays revolved around dramatic irony. 

• In Twelfth Night , a love triangle is predicated on Viola’s false identity. We know she’s an imposter, but some characters do not.
• In Romeo and Juliet , the title characters commit suicide because they don’t know about each other’s plans.
• In Othello , the title character is led to believe his wife cheated on him – but we know she didn’t.

All of these instances of dramatic irony add nuance and drama to their story. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment is a book that revolves around dramatic irony. Take a look at this next video and think about how Dostoevsky plays with what dramatic irony – aka when we know more than some characters do – in order to create a sense of paranoia.

What is Dramatic Irony in Literature?  •  Crime and Punishment Explained

Dostoevsky was a master of using irony to create psychological terror. Our knowledge of the protagonist’s sinister crime makes us paranoid that he’s going to be caught. The book plays out like a game of cat and mouse between what we know and what they know. All in all, I’d say it’s an essential read for anyone looking to learn more about dramatic irony in literature.

What is Dramatic Irony’s Opposite?

The opposite of dramatic irony.

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more than the characters – but what is the opposite of dramatic irony?

When the character knows more than the audience. 

An example might be Sherlock Holmes, who often withholds important information from the audience until the opportune moment. Let’s watch Sherlock showcase the opposite of dramatic irony in this next clip.

Opposite of Dramatic Irony  •  Sherlock lays it all out

Sherlock is a master at using deductive reasoning to make sense of situations; oftentimes before the audience is able to do so. Now that we have a better understanding of what dramatic irony is and how it works, let's go a little deeper into the subject.

One of the biggest questions involves the difference between dramatic and situational irony. In the next section, we’ll set the record straight.

What Does Dramatic Irony Mean Compared to Situational Irony?

Situational vs. dramatic irony.

Dramatic and situational irony both involve circumstances and the difference between expectations and reality. The key difference between these two forms of irony is whether or not this unexpected reality is revealed to the audience along with the character or before.

With situational irony , our discovery that our expectations haven’t been met are aligned with the characters in the story. 

With dramatic irony , we know well in advance that what the character expects is not the reality of the situation — and that creates tension. 

Now that we have a firm understanding of this concept, let's look at some examples of dramatic irony. As we'll see, it is a very versatile and useful storytelling device — perfect for comedy, drama and suspense.

Comedy Effects of Dramatic Irony

Use dramatic irony for humor.

The effects of dramatic irony can be seen in any story. Watching a character operate in circumstances where they don't know the entire truth can be dramatic or suspenseful. But it can also be funny.

Misunderstandings are the bread and butter of comedy, and dramatic irony is a fantastic way to generate misunderstanding.

Our first example is from one of the best 2000s movies , Meet the Parents . In this scene Jack (Robert De Niro) confronts Greg (Ben Stiller) about smoking marijuania. Of course, we know Jack’s been fed false information. We imported the Meet the Parents script into StudioBinder’s screenwriting software to take a closer look at this scene.

What is Dramatic Irony?  •  Meet the Parents Example

This moment of dramatic irony is played up for comedic effect better in the film. Check out the scene below.

What is Dramatic Irony?  •  Meet the Parents Clip

We see dramatic irony used elsewhere in comedy too . Three Amigos is built upon a premise that is a perfect example of dramatic irony. Steve Martin, Martin Short and Chevy Chase play Hollywood actors who assume they have been called down to Mexico to entertain the locals. Little do they know, the situation is real and the danger is right in front of them.

Dramatic Irony Examples  •  Three Amigos Clip

If you’re considering using dramatic irony for humor in your script, raise the stakes as high as possible. Just don’t punish the characters we’re rooting for too harshly or else the irony won’t work.

How to Use Dramatic Irony

Add dramatic irony for suspense.

There is suspense inside every example of dramatic irony. We know the truth, and it's only a matter of time before the characters learn it too. Horror films and thrillers use this suspense all the time and to significant effect. 

The Silence of the Lambs has an incredibly tense ending. Clarice is entirely vulnerable. We watch her fumble in the dark, unaware that Buffalo Bill is standing right in front of her, stalking her and in complete control of the situation. Check out the scene below.

Dramatic Irony Examples  •  The Silence of the Lambs Clip

Director Jonathan Demme puts us into a dramatically ironic vantage by showing us Clarice from Buffalo Bill’s point of view . 

In our next example Michael Corleone kills two men at a restaurant. Let’s break down The Godfather script to see how Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo used dramatic irony to add tension to this classic scene. Here, we are shown how Clemenza sets Michael up to kill Solozzo and McCluskey.

Dramatic Irony Examples  •  Laying the Groundwork in The Godfather

Now, we’re effectively “in on the secret.” We know Michael is going to kill Solozzo and McCluskey and we know how he’s going to do it. Sollozzo is (rightfully) suspicious of Michael and pats him down before he goes to the bathroom to retrieve the gun, but there is still a mountain of tension in the scene. Let’s see how that tension is released.

Dramatic Irony Examples  •  Execution in The Godfather

We really feel the effects of dramatic irony here because we know Michael had the gun planted. All in all, it’s a perfect example of how to use dramatic irony from laying the groundwork to execution.

We've reviewed some classic dramatic irony examples; now it's time to explore some variations. In the next section, we’ll list and define the various types of dramatic irony so you can see how intricate and nuanced this concept is.

Whats Dramatic Irony’s Subtype?

What is tragic irony.

Tragic irony is simply defined as dramatic irony with tragic consequences. It takes the same basic situation in which the audience knows more about the situation than the character. But in this type of dramatic irony, the character’s ignorance has dire repercussions. 

Oftentimes, the audience will know about the tragedy in advance – sometimes even at the very beginning of the story. Then, we watch as they helplessly struggle to avoid it.

Dramatic Irony Subsets  •  Tragic irony defined

There is a lot more to explore with tragic irony, including more examples from movies and TV. Check out the article below to learn more about tragic irony.

Learn more about tragic irony →

What are the stages of dramatic irony, stages of dramatic irony explained.

Dramatic irony functions just like suspense: both take time and both need to result in the release of tension. The longer we let the tension boil, the greater the explosive reveal will be.

Deploying dramatic irony has a structure all its own. It is, in fact, very similar to a traditional three-act structure. The three stages include Preparation, Suspension, and Resolution.

If you want to learn more about the stages of dramatic irony, check out the article below in which we explain them with examples from movies and TV.

Learn more about the stages of dramatic irony →

Dive deeper into irony.

We've covered the basics of dramatic irony but there is so much more to learn. If there is a particular form of irony you want to explore further, just follow the navigation below. Each one of these subtypes of irony belongs in every writer's toolkit.

3 Types of Irony (Overview)

• Tragic Irony
• Poetic Irony

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What Is Dramatic Irony & Why Should I Use It?

In this post, we define dramatic irony and suggest when and why you should use it in your stories.

What Is Dramatic Irony?

According to Encyclopaedia Britannica it is ‘a literary device by which the audience’s or reader’s understanding of events or individuals in a work surpasses that of its characters.’

The readers or viewers are aware of events and facts that differ substantially from that of the characters’ in a work of fiction. Audiences know secrets that are hidden from one or more of the characters.

The characters are obviously at a disadvantage because of this. Sometimes, the suspense created is so intense that audience members want to cry out to warn the characters of the dangers they are facing.

Dramatic irony was mostly used in the theatre, but it has become more common in all fictional works. It can be used in most genres , but is most often used in suspense.

Why Should I Use It?

Dramatic irony is a fabulous device if you want to involve your audience in the story.

Writers use dramatic irony as  a plot device to create conflict, suspense, empathy , and humour.

When the audience knows more than the characters, it forces them to anticipate and fear the moment, and to hope that the character might find out the truth sooner. It creates an intense empathy with the character’s situation.

Dramatic irony makes the audience part of the story.

MUST-READ: 4 Reasons To Use Dramatic Irony In Your Story

Examples Of Dramatic Irony

• In Romeo and Juliet , the audience knows Juliet is in a drugged sleep, but Romeo thinks she is dead and kills himself.
• In King Lear , we know that Lear’s most loyal daughter is Cordelia, but he can’t see it and trusts his other daughters instead.
• In Toy Story , Buzz Lightyear thinks he is a real space ranger but the other toys and the audience knows that he is just a toy.
• In Alfred Hitchcock ‘s The Birds , Melanie walks up to the closed-off attic. She is unaware that it is filled with the birds, but the audience knows they’re there.
• In Alfred Hitchcock’s Rope , the audience watches David being killed and his body hidden in a chest that is being used as a table. Then the other characters wait for him to arrive, but we know he will not be arriving.
• In Victor Hugo ’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame , Quasimodo tries to protect Esmeralda from the gypsies. In reality, the audience understands that they are coming to save her.
• In Titanic , the audience knows that the boat will sink. This creates humour when characters remark on the safety of the ship.

Click here for more examples.

• Write a scene from the antagonist ‘s viewpoint. Show that the antagonist knows much more than the protagonist , but only reveals it at the end of the scene.
• Write a scene where a character pretends to be somebody of the opposite sex.

You should use dramatic irony when you want to create suspense and increase audience participation in the story.

© Amanda Patterson

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What is Dramatic Irony and How to Use it in Writing?

Table of Contents

Are you a budding writer who is interested in crafting an outstanding book or a play? If yes, then you must learn about various irony techniques. Usually, every writer will wish to hold the attention of the readers as the plot of a play or a novel moves forward. But in order to make that possible, you must effectively implement dramatic irony techniques in your writing. Do you know what dramatic irony means and how to include that in your writing? In case, you are unaware of the basics of dramatic irony, then keep on reading this blog. Here, you will learn everything about dramatic irony with examples.

What Is Irony? 

One of the most important words used in writing is “irony.” It is a cliche. When something mirrors something that is not typical, it is ironic. Some inconsistencies can be amusing, while others can lead to tragedies. In general, irony is a complex concept that is classified into different types. It is more widely used in literature writing to grab the attention of the readers.

Irony in Creative Writing

The irony is something that reverses our desires. It can make sudden exciting bends in the road in the assignment after completing it. This gets us to snicker, laugh, or cry.

Irony can be difficult to write as first you need to concentrate on something unexpected to write about a situation. It helps in making your writing creative. It’s an extraordinary method to connect with your reader in reading an assignment.

The readers and the crowds have given the reasons for clashes alongside their goal before the characters of the entertainers of the work become mindful of the equivalent. The readers and the eyewitnesses find that the entertainers or the characters are utilizing a few addresses which are of surprising importance since they have the data that the main entertainers and characters of the work don’t have.

For example, in a play, the reader can have the data that a particular character will be murdered or going to end it all but different characters don’t have the foggiest idea about the equivalent.

Various Types of Irony

The irony is of three types. 1. Verbal Irony, 2. Situational Irony, 3. Dramatic Irony.

1. Verbal Irony

In this, the significance of the sentence that is communicated is different from what it implies or what the speaker needs to state.

Example:  An individual says “Thanks without a doubt” to a server spilling water on him.

We can see he was distraught about this.

2. Situational Irony

This type of irony happens when any circumstance prompts structure and irony. At the point when the consequence of activity is in opposition to the normal impact.

Example : In “The Gift of the Magi,” by O. Henry, the spouse offers his watch to purchase his wife searches for her hair and the wife offers her hair to get her better half a chain for his watch.

3. Dramatic Irony

In this kind of irony, the audience sees only the words, and activities, but the speaker doesn’t.

It is where the watcher has the data but the character doesn’t. This consistently prompts errors for the character.

Example:  In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the crowd realizes that Juliet isn’t dead but Romeo accepts that she is.

Definition of Dramatic Irony

Dramatic irony is essentially a story element in which the audience learns significant components of the plot. Perhaps the characters say something that contradicts the audience’s beliefs. As a result of this additional knowledge, the authors can add tension or humor to the storyline. Furthermore, its definition in literature differs from that in film. However, it usually appears difficult to incorporate it into a tale that the audience may simply read.

Notable Dramatic Irony Examples

Practically, in every comic book/graphic novel/film transformation including a legend with a mystery personality—DC’s Batman, for example—the crowd knows the saint’s character while most characters don’t.

There’s Something About Mary, the character of Ted questioned by police about a murder, but he believes he has been questioned about getting a drifter.

In the principal Toy Story, Buzz believes he’s a space officer while the crowd knows he’s a toy.

What is the Use of Dramatic Irony?

Dramatic irony is utilized in making unfurled scenes and circumstances of characters. It is utilized predominantly because the writers or the movie creators need to hold an interest in the crowds or the readers.

In this situation, the crowds or the readers are given significant and needful data so they could have the information on something over the entertainers and characters of the literary works which helps the crowds to consider the storyline or to envision the consummation of the story.

The readers additionally hang tight for the circumstances and occasions of the story to happen which keeps them joined with the play or story or theater or movie. Dramatic irony is likewise utilized in making misfortune.

The readers become ready to feel for the main entertainers or the characters. The irony is mostly utilized in building up a comprehension of honest and genuine individuals and underscores showing pitiful outcomes of any sort of false impression. It likewise centers around the casualty of any sort of deficient comprehension or mistaken assumptions.

When to Include Dramatic Irony in Writing?

Dramatic irony happens in writing where the crowds have data more than the entertainers of the characters in the narratives have. The readers of any sonnet or the onlookers of any play have the data which at any rate the main characters or entertainers are ignorant of. This affects the interests of the crowds and readers. For example, the readers or the crowds may know about any snare that different characters don’t know about.

This creates pressure or anticipation and accordingly, the crowds are urged to hold up until the story or movie closes. This is for the most part utilized in making either tension or humor. In making misfortunes, the creators or movie producers additionally utilize dramatic irony.

In the acclaimed movie of Titanic by James Cameron, the crowds realize that the boat is going to hit the ice sheet but they can’t help the characters of the movie by implying them about reality. The crowds need to hold up until the finish of the movie to watch the successions and the story.

In Friends, Rachel soon after bringing forth Emma, imagines that she has been proposed to by Joey but the crowds realize that Joey identified the lost ring from their pocket of Ross and didn’t have any aim to propose to Rachel. Different humorous occasions have been seen with the utilization of dramatic irony where the crowds have all the data and they are held back to watch the last closure of the movie.

There are a few examples like The Merchant of Venice or Animal Farm. These are acclaimed examples where we can see dramatic irony making the mysterious minutes and empowering the crowds and the readers to hold up till the finish of the storyline.

Why is it Essential to Use Dramatic Irony in Writing?

The creators can utilize dramatic irony for different purposes. They can either need to build pressure or anticipation inside the crowds and readers or to cause them to feel the touch of misfortune that is going to happen. There are a few dramatic incongruities where humor is the primary subject.

The characters are discovered to think something to be genuine or genuine which isn’t the situation, it can make gigantic humorous occasions or scenes engaging the crowds and the readers. Intension, the job of dramatic irony is exceptionally fundamental.

In Hitchcock movies, we can see that the utilization of dramatic irony is very normal. The readers of the crowds know the genuine murderer or the executioner but the characters of the main entertainers of the movie don’t have such data.

This creates pressure, interest, and anticipation in the crowds or readers. Tension is accomplished by dramatic irony where the crowds are furnished with data about any dangers that the characters don’t have.

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Examples of Dramatic Irony in Literature

Find here, how Shakespeare and other renowned writers have used ironies in their writing.

Dramatic Irony in Othello 

Othello is one of the most heartrending misfortunes at any point composed, and Shakespeare’s utilization of dramatic irony is one reason the play is so amazing to read and watch.

We realize that the cloth utilized as confirmation of Desdemona’s unfaithfulness might have been, indeed, taken by Emilia at Iago’s command. Desdemona is confined by Iago, and we realize she is honest. But we are too weak to stop Othello; he has made plans to murder his wife.

Iago, whom Othello thinks about as a companion, has been plotting Othello’s destruction for the span of the play. Othello doesn’t realize that Iago is the one calling the shots, but we do. We realize he is the person who persuades Roderigo to execute Cassio, even as we watch him profess to help Cassio after he is injured. Just we see Iago slaughter Roderigo before he can uncover the reality. Along these lines, we are complicit with Iago’s wrongdoings. We are the main observers, but we can sit idle.

Dramatic Irony in Romeo and Juliet 

In the last demonstration of this prototype romantic tale, Shakespeare utilizes dramatic irony to keep the crowd as eager and anxious as can be.

Minister Laurence sends a courier to educate Romeo regarding Juliet’s arrangement to drug herself into deathlike unconsciousness. We watch with dismay as the courier neglects to convey this imperative snippet of data. Furthermore, however, we realize that Juliet isn’t generally dead, we see Romeo harm himself since he can’t live without her.

Learn How to Use Dramatic Irony in Your Assignment

Here are the 5 different ways  to utilize dramatic irony in assignments-

1. Reveal a Character’s True Feeling 

A character’s actual inclination should have been uncovered by permitting them to express their real thoughts to somebody they don’t perceive. If you are writing an assignment on a point, it must be explained to the reader appropriately.

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night can be an example of this, wherein Olivia and Orsino are both tricked into accepting that Viola is a kid named Cesario.

2. Add Humor 

Humor is something that is intended to be humorous or entertaining. Adding humor to an assignment will make energy for the reader to read the assignment. An example of this would be “Home Alone” where the looters misconstrue the movie clasps to the comic impacts.

3. Create Empathy 

Demonstrating a character’s weakness in specific conditions that they don’t completely comprehend can make compassion. At the point when you utilize dramatic irony in writing your assignment, you can interface with the principle theme to a profound, important level.

An example of this would be with sickening dread movies where the character runs for well-being at that place and arrives at where the executioner is covering up.

4. Grab the Reader’s Attention 

Continuously recollect that the consideration of the reader is significant when you have wrapped up the assignment. Keep the reader turning pages until the character knows reality. The reader knows reality from the earliest starting point but he ought not to quit reading, he should read until the character doesn’t discover the reality.

Example: Stephen King’s Carrie utilizes dramatic irony along these lines. The reader knows Carrie may have embarrassed at the prom yet he continues reading to perceive what will happen when she learns reality.

5. Allow the Unknowing Character to Make Mistakes 

If a character knows the full image of what is happening then he won’t commit errors. He will likewise not hang tight for reality finally. When writing an assignment, write it so that the character doesn’t have the foggiest idea about reality.

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Points to Remember While Using Dramatic Irony

Keep these things in mind when you utilize dramatic irony techniques in your writing.

• Be careful not to undermine your character’s believability to irritate the reader. When the crowd is aware of something, they will begin to believe that it is obvious. It’s hard to show a character who seems to ignore the obvious to the reader. Characters that are unaware of reality quickly lose their interest.
• Keep the dramatic irony flawless by not being unexpectedly clever by having your character act against logic. When a victim runs up the steps looking for help in a thriller or spine-chilling thriller, the audience laughs. Abnormal characters, like those careless in regard to the plainly obvious, can’t solely be upsetting; they can incorporate humor where you don’t require it.

In this essay, we’ve so far explored the principles of dramatic irony, but there’s still a lot more to learn. You can’t employ irony as readily in your work. Moreover, you must think critically and integrate that into your story organically. In general, applying dramatic irony in writing requires more practice. Contact us right away if you experience difficulty incorporating dramatic irony into your writing.

1. What is the best definition of dramatic irony?

Dramatic irony simplistically means the audience is more aware of the situation than the character of fiction. It means a character speaks something without being aware of a situation which intensifies or lessens the complexity of the piece.

2. Which is an example of dramatic irony?

Macbeth by William Shakespeare is an example is one of the best examples of dramatic irony in literature.

3. What is dramatic irony kid definition?

Dramatic irony in simpler words means a character is unaware of the situation but the audience is fully aware of it.

4. Which is the best example of dramatic irony in the play?

Macbeth by William Shakespeare is an example is one of the best examples of dramatic irony in English plays.

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