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Imagery
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
Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Frightened of People:
In Chapter 5, the boys hold an assembly to discuss the things they should do to survive on the island, and eventually their discussion turns to rumors of a "beast" on the island—an instance of foreshadowing and irony:
"You don’t really mean that we got to be frightened all the time of nothing? Life,” said Piggy expansively, “is scientific, that’s what it is. In a year or two when the war’s over they’ll be traveling to Mars and back. I know there isn’t no beast—not with claws and all that, I mean—but I know there isn’t no fear, either.” Piggy paused. “Unless—” Ralph moved restlessly. “Unless what?” “Unless we get frightened of people.” A sound, half-laugh, half-jeer, rose among the seated boys.
Related Themes:
Chapter 12
Explanation and Analysis—Fun and Games:
In Chapter 12, the British officer finds the boys in the midst of hunting Ralph, a moment filled with dramatic irony:
Unlock with LitCharts A+A semicircle of little boys, their bodies streaked with colored clay, sharp sticks in their hands, were standing on the beach making no noise at all. “Fun and games,” said the officer.
Related Themes:
