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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
Part 1, Chapter 1: Playing Pilgrims
Explanation and Analysis—Christmas:
The conversation about Christmas and poverty in Chapter 1 foreshadows difficult times ahead for the March family. These first few lines reveal the girls' financial concerns:
'Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents,’ grumbled Jo, lying on the rug. ‘It’s so dreadful to be poor!’ sighed Meg, looking down at her old dress.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Amy:
Amy's fate is one example of situational irony in Little Women. Amy intends to marry for money. She dreams of wealthy friends, expensive jewels, and nice clothes. Her discomfort with the Marches' poverty is evident from the novel's first pages:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"I don't think it's fair for some girls to have plenty of pretty things, and other girls nothing at all."
Related Themes:
Part 2, Chapter 41: Learning to Forget
Explanation and Analysis—Amy:
Amy's fate is one example of situational irony in Little Women. Amy intends to marry for money. She dreams of wealthy friends, expensive jewels, and nice clothes. Her discomfort with the Marches' poverty is evident from the novel's first pages:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"I don't think it's fair for some girls to have plenty of pretty things, and other girls nothing at all."
Related Themes:
