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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 Way of the World
Act 2, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—Pretended Uncle:
In Act 2, Scene 4, Mrs. Fainall and Mirabell discuss a plan of Mirabell's. Mrs. Fainall asks about who Mirabell got to play his fake uncle. Dramatic irony comes into play here:
MIRABELL: Injustice to you, I have made you privy to my whole design, and put it in your power to ruin or advance my fortune.
MRS FAINALL: Whom have you instructed to represent your pretended uncle?
MIRABELL: Waitwell, my servant.
MRS FAINALL: He is an humble servant to Foible, my mother’s woman, and may win her to your interest.
Related Themes:
Act 3, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—Eavesdropping:
In Act 3, Scene 6, Foible carefully finds out what Mrs. Fainall knows about Mirabell's plot. The scene is famous for the dramatic irony that unfolds while Foible tries to make sure the information doesn't get into Mrs. Marwood's hands:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Madam, I beg your ladyship to acquaint Mr Mirabell of his success. I would be seen as little as possible to speak to him. Besides, I believe Madam Marwood watches me.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—Poetic Dialogue:
In Act 4, Scene 4, Millamant and Wilfull have a comic scene shot through with dramatic irony. Millamant is reciting poetry, but Wilfull believes she is speaking to him:
Unlock with LitCharts A+MILLAMANT: That foolish trifle of a heart – Sir Wilfull!
SIR WILFULL: Yes – your servant. No offence I hope, cousin.
MILLAMANT [repeating]: I swear it will not do its part,
Tho’ thou dost thine, employ’st the power and art.Natural, easy Suckling!
SIR WILFULL: Anan? Suckling? No such suckling neither, cousin, nor stripling; I thank heaven, I’m no minor.
MILLAMANT: Ah rustic! ruder than Gothic.
SIR WILFULL: Well, well, I shall understand your lingo one of these days, cousin; in the meanwhile, I must answer in plain English.
Related Themes:
