Irony Notes

The audience seems to know more about an event, a situation, or a conversation than the characters themselves. This can create intense suspense or humor

Dramatic Irony

The audience seems to know more about an event, a situation, or a conversation than the characters themselves. This can create intense suspense or humor

Dramatic irony occurs when...

There is a sharp difference between what we see or say, and what we know to be true

Irony occurs when...

The difference between what you expect, and what happens

Situational Irony

Someone says the opposite of what they mean

Verbal Irony

- In Star Wars, Luke does not know Darth Vader is his father until Episode V, but the audience knows sooner. - In Toy Story, the toys move when the people are not there. Also, Buzz thinks he is a real space ranger.

What are some examples of Dramatic Irony?

- A fire station burns down - An anti-technological website

What are some examples of Situational Irony?

- My bed was as soft as a brick - My teacher's explanation was as clear as mud

What are some examples of Verbal Irony WITHOUT sarcasm?

The difference between what you expect, and what happens

What is Situational Irony?

Sarcasm is a kind of verbal irony, but it's weak and easy and it's usually meant to be mocking and hurtful. It's not cool. Sarcasm depends entirely on attitude and tone of voice, so it loses meaning when you write it. It's not a great tool for the writer and should be avoided in general.

What is sarcasm?