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Definition of Verbal Irony
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging outside and someone remarks "what... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean. When there's a hurricane raging... read full definition
Verbal irony occurs when the literal meaning of what someone says is different from—and often opposite to—what they actually mean... read full definition
Act 3, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis—A Grave Look:
Under the guise of Piato the “panderer,” Vindice arranges a sexual encounter between the Duke and the poisoned skeleton of his own late fiancée, Gloriana, who was poisoned by the Duke nine years before the events depicted in the play. Vindice’s language in this scene exemplifies verbal irony, as his speech, full of morbid double entendres, exploits the darkly comedic potential of the Duke’s ignorance of his plan:
Duke. Piato, well done. Hast brought her; what lady is’t?
Vindice. ’Faith my lord, a country lady: a little bashful at first as most of them are, but
after the first kiss, my lord, the worst is past with them. Your grace knows now what
you have to do. She’s somewhat a grave look with her – but –Duke. I love that best: conduct her.
Vindice. [Aside] Have at all! [Brings forward the dressed skull.]
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