Previous
Literary Devices
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
Chapter 9: The Goldfish Pond
Explanation and Analysis—Sleight of Hand:
An important instance of dramatic irony occurs in Chapter 9, when Poirot interrupts a conversation with Sheppard, Flora, and Major Blunt to reach into the pond after something shiny. He comes up with nothing; after Flora and Major Blunt leave, Sheppard laments that Poirot got his suit muddy for nothing:
“And all for nothing, too,” I said sympathetically. “I wonder what it was in the pond?”
“Would you like to see?” asked Poirot.
I stared at him. He nodded.
“My good friend,” he said gently and reproachfully, “Hercule Poirot does not run the risk of disarranging his costume without being sure of attaining his object. To do so would be ridiculous and absurd. I am never ridiculous.”
Related Themes:
