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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 1
Explanation and Analysis—Deconstructing Dolls:
In Chapter 1, Claudia discusses her childhood aversion to dolls, expressing the alienation she feels from the concept of motherhood. The passage is a prime example of situational irony:
What was I supposed to do with it? Pretend I was its mother? I had no interest in babies or the concept of motherhood. I was interested only in humans my own age and size, and could not generate any enthusiasm at the prospect of being a mother.
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Motherly Affection:
In Chapter 1, Claudia explores the relationship between herself, Frieda, and their mother. As a child, Claudia gets sick and throws up on her bed. In a moment of situational irony, her mother reacts unexpectedly:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Later I throw up, and my mother says, “What did you puke on the bed clothes for? Don’t you have sense enough to hold your head out the bed? Now, look what you did. You think I got time for nothing but washing up your puke?”
Related Themes:
