Irony

The Alchemist

by Ben Jonson

The Alchemist: Irony 2 key examples

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
Act 4, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—The Spaniard:

In a scene suffused with dramatic irony, Surly disguises himself as a Spanish nobleman and returns to Lovewit’s house, which Subtle, Doll, and Face have utilized as their base of operations. Feigning ignorance of English and speaking Spanish instead, the disguised Surly listens to Subtle and Face as they openly insult him and discuss their schemes: 

  Sur. Por dios, senores, muy linda casa!

  Sub. What says he?

  Fac. Praises the house, I think;
I know no more but's action.

  Sub. Yes, the casa,
My precious Diego, will prove fair enough
To cozen you in. Do you mark? you shall
Be cozen'd, Diego.

  Fac. Cozen'd, do you see,
My worthy Donzel, cozen'd.

  Sur. Entiendo.

  Sub. Do you intend it? so do we, dear Don.

Act 5, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis—Surly's Threat:

In a scene that exemplifies dramatic irony, Surly unknowingly threatens Face in front of Face himself, who has returned to his original identity as Jeremy the servant. When Mammon and the others finally realize that they have been tricked by Face, Subtle, and Doll, they respond with despondency and anger: 

Mam. I will go mount a turnip-cart, and preach

  The end of the world, within these two months. Surly,

  What! In a dream?

  Sur. Must I needs cheat myself,

  With that same foolish vice of honesty!

  Come, let us go and hearken out the rogues:

  That Face I'll mark for mine, if e'er I meet him.

  Fac. If I can hear of him, sir, I'll bring you word,

  Unto your lodging; for in troth, they were strangers

  To me, I thought them honest as my self, sir.

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