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Definition of Irony
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... read full 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... read full definition
Irony is a literary device or event in which how things seem to be is in fact very different from how... read full definition
Key Examples in A Midsummer Night's Dream
Act 2, scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—The Mistake:
In Act 2, Scene 2, Robin has been instructed by Oberon to place the nectar on Demetrius’s eyes, thereby making him fall in love with Helena. Oberon’s intentions are good when he makes this request, as he hopes to create a reciprocal and loving relationship. But the error that Robin makes in executing this request ends up creating dramatic irony, since the audience knows how he has erred and thus understands why there is so much confusion amongst the concerned parties. When Robin stumbles across Lysander and Hermia and moves to put the nectar on Lysander’s eyes, he says:
Night and silence! Who is here?
Weeds of Athens he doth wear.
This is he my master said
Despisèd the Athenian maid.
And here the maiden, sleeping sound
On the dank and dirty ground.
Pretty soul, she durst not lie
Near this lack-love, this kill courtesy.—
Churl, upon thy eyes I throw
All the power this charm doth owe.
Related Themes:
Act 3, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—The Ass's Head:
In Act 3, Scene 1, Robin transforms Bottom’s head into that of an ass while he is separated from his fellow players. When he returns, his friends are horrified by his transformation, but Bottom, who cannot see himself, believes that they are making fun of him. He creates dramatic irony by speculating about their intentions in front of the audience, which has witnessed his transformation and understands its source. Bottom makes an unknowing pun, further accentuating his ignorance. He says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I see their knavery. This is to make an ass of
me, to fright me, if they could. But I will not stir
from this place, do what they can.
Act 3, scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Confusion and Spite:
In Act 3, Scene 2, the consequences of Robin’s mistakes have led the lovers into great conflict. The audience has seen the source of the dramatic change Lysander and Demetrius’s behavior, but the lovers themselves are mystified and hurt by the switch up. The dramatic irony created by the magical interference in their affections prevails throughout their scenes of conflict. When Hermia shows up, hurt that Lysander left her behind while she was sleeping, Helena reaches her limit. She says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Lo, she is one of this confederacy!
Now I perceive they have conjoined all three
To fashion this false sport in spite of me.
Related Themes:
