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Definition of Verbal Irony
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging outside and someone remarks "what... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean... read full definition
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—You Cannot Derogate:
In conversation with Cloten, the spoiled and foolish son of the Queen and stepson of the King, the First Lord employs verbal irony to mock his companion:
FIRST LORD
There’s an Italian come, and ’tis thought one of Leonatus’ friends.CLOTEN
Leonatus? A banished rascal; and he’s another,
whatsoever he be. Who told you of this stranger?FIRST LORD
One of your Lordship’s pages.CLOTEN
Is it fit I went to look upon him? Is there no derogation in ’t?FIRST LORD
You cannot derogate, my lord.CLOTEN
Not easily, I think.FIRST LORD
[aside] You are a fool granted; therefore your issues, being foolish, do not derogate.
