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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
Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Paupers:
Gaskell characterizes Mr. Gibson’s wit through verbal irony, as Mr. Gibson pretends to value life only in terms of profit. His dry tone makes clear that he does not believe paupers deserve less care; instead, his words mock the mercenary attitude that would view human worth in terms of money:
Mr Wynne looked up in surprise, and observed that he should be afraid that such putting out of misery might be looked upon as homicide by some people. Mr Gibson said in a dry tone, that for his part he should not mind the imputation of homicide, but that it would not do to make away with profitable patients in so speedy a manner; and that he thought that as long as they were willing and able to pay two and sixpence for the doctor’s visit, it was his duty to keep them alive; of course, when they became paupers the case was different.
Related Themes:
