Literary Elements Notes

Irony

a difference between what is expected and reality Definition of Irony: a difference between what is expected and reality

Let’s break it down…

3 Types of Irony:

When a character says one thing, but means another. Types of Irony: Verbal Irony When a character says one thing, but means another.

Examples: When your mom walks into your bedroom and sees that you, instead of doing your homework, are watching Netflix, she gives you a stern look and says, "Once you're done with your very important work there, let's take some time out for algebra." You just spilled all your milk at the lunchroom table and say, “Oh that’s just great. That’s just want I needed today.” “I’m so glad Mr. Petersen moved up the due date for the essay; I was hoping that I would have too much homework to go to the game tonight.”

Situational Irony Types of Irony: When the story turns out opposite from what we expect (the “surprise” twist at the end).

Examples: If the former president of Microsoft, Bill Gates, had won a contest whose grand prize was a Mac iPad. You buy yourself something after months of saving and then someone gets it for you for Christmas! Two robbers run out of bank, only to find their getaway car has been stolen! A man takes a step aside in order to avoid getting sprinkled by a wet dog but falls into a swimming pool.

Dramatic Irony Types of Irony: When the reader is aware of something going on in a story that the characters are not (“I know something they don’t know!).

Examples: In a scary movie, a character walks into a house, and the audience know that the killer is inside the house waiting! Your best friend’s parents are so proud of your friend for getting an A on a test at school, but you know that your friend cheated. In “The Cask of Amontillado,” only the reader knows that Montresor has evil plans for Fortunado (who doesn’t know he is being lured into a trap!). In the Toy Story movies, the audience knows that the toys talk, move, and come to life, but the adults in the movie do not know this.

Irony