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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 Phantom of the Opera
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Carlotta's Sabotage:
Carlotta thinks she will sabotage the superlatively-talented Christine, but she is really setting herself up to become a target for the Phantom's anger. In Chapter 8, when Erik becomes displeased by Carlotta's emotionless voice, he completely ruins her performance:
No one could have predicted anything like this. Carlotta was still unable to believe what her throat and her ears had told her. The crack of a thunderbolt would not have startled her as much as that hoarse croak springing out of her mouth; and thunder would not have caused her downfall. Whereas a toad crouched on a singer’s tongue will inevitably ruin her. Some have even died from it.
Related Themes:
Chapter 12
Explanation and Analysis—Masking:
Erik resents his compulsory mask-wearing, but he is far less masked than the other metaphorically-masked characters. One example of masked feelings includes Christine's bogus engagement to Raoul. In Chapter 12, Christine suggests a "secret marriage" that will last only one month:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"But if we cannot be married, we can become engaged! No one but us will know. There have been plenty of secret marriages! Why not a secret betrothal? Let us become engaged, Raoul, for a month! In a month’s time, you will sail away and the memory of that month will keep me happy for the rest of my days!" She was overjoyed by this prospect. Then she became serious again and added: "This happiness will hurt no one."
Related Themes:
