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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
Key Examples in The Merchant of Venice
Dramatic Irony
Explanation and Analysis—Portia as Balthazar:
The primary example of dramatic irony occurs in Act 4, scene 1, when Portia disguises herself as Balthazar, the lawyer—the audience knows this is the case, but no one in the court does (except Nerissa, who is also in disguise). Doctor Bellario, Portia's cousin and a lawyer himself, writes of Balthazar in a letter to the Duke, “I never knew so young a body with so old a head." This description alludes to Portia's disguise as both a male lawyer and a young person of great prudence. Her deception carries into Act 4, scene 2, when she (still disguised) persuades Bassanio to surrender his wedding ring to her; it continues in Act 5 when she feigns outrage over her husband's betrayal.
Related Themes:
Act 2, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Portia's Sarcasm:
When the Prince of Morocco arrives to partake in the casket game, he implores Portia not to judge him based on his darker skin tone. In an instance of dramatic irony, Portia then replies,
Unlock with LitCharts A+In terms of choice I am not solely led
By nice direction of a maiden’s eyes;
Besides, the lott’ry of my destiny
Bars me the right of voluntary choosing.
But if my father had not scanted me
And hedged me by his wit to yield myself
His wife who wins me by that means I told you,
Yourself, renownèd prince, then stood as fair
As any comer I have looked on yet
For my affection.
Related Themes:
