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Dramatic Irony
Explanation and Analysis—Isabel's Unhappy Marriage:
In an example of both foreshadowing and irony, several different characters in the novel tell Isabel not to marry Osmond since, they believe, he is just using her for her wealth and she will end up unhappy.
This is an example of foreshadowing, as Isabel does go on to be very unhappy in her marriage to Osmond, who wants her money but does not value her as the independent person that she is. It’s simultaneously an example of situational irony because Isabel believes incorrectly—yet confidently—that she knows Osmond better than anyone else, viewing him as a humble art collector deserving of her love and financial support.
The following conversation between Isabel and Ralph captures the irony of Isabel’s resistance to her loved ones’ critiques of her fiancé:
“How little you trust me!”
There was a moment’s silence; the warm noon-tide seemed to listen. “I trust you, but I don’t trust him,” said Ralph.
She raised her eyes and gave him a wide, deep look. “You’ve said it now, and I’m glad you’ve made it so clear. But you’ll suffer by it.”
Here, Isabel tell Ralph that he’ll “suffer” for speaking ill of Osmond when, in reality, it’s she who suffers for the fact that she didn’t listen to Ralph. This is also an example of dramatic irony, as readers know by this point that Osmond and Madame Merle have intentionally been targeting Isabel for her inherited wealth (even if readers don’t yet understand why). This means that readers are on the same page as the characters who don’t trust Osmond.
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