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Definition of Dramatic Irony
Dramatic irony is a plot device often used in theater, literature, film, and television to highlight the difference between a character's understanding of a given situation, and that of the... read full definition
Dramatic irony is a plot device often used in theater, literature, film, and television to highlight the difference between a character's understanding of a given... read full definition
Dramatic irony is a plot device often used in theater, literature, film, and television to highlight the difference between a... read full definition
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—The Ecstasy of Love:
In Hamlet, instances of dramatic irony often come about as a result of Hamlet's tendency to only share certain motivations with the audience (and not with the other characters). For example, in Act 2, Scene 1, Ophelia and her father have a conversation about what they think is a change in Hamlet’s behavior. Ophelia has just had a frightening experience with Hamlet, and she is concerned that he has fallen mad or ill. In response, her father says:
This is the very ecstasy of love
Whose violent property fordoes itself
And leads the will to desperate undertakings
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Act 3, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—Behind the Curtain:
A good example of the play's use of dramatic irony comes in Act 3, Scene 4, which is a significant turning point in the play. Driven by the escalation of tension, Hamlet arrives to confront his mother. Shortly into their conversation, when she begins to feel threatened, the Queen calls for help, and Hamlet realizes that someone is standing behind the curtain. The audience knows that Polonius is behind the curtain, but Hamlet doesn't, and without knowing who stands there, he kills him. The queen reacts with horror:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Queen: O me, what hast thou done?
Hamlet: Nay, I know not. Is it the King?
Queen: O, what a rash and bloody deed is this!
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Act 5, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Poison:
In Act 5, Scene 2, there is a violent altercation between Laertes and Hamlet. The final events of the play take place as the other characters gather to spectate, and these moments contain dramatic irony.
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