The topic of discussion today is irony.
Definition
The playing around with words such that the meaning implied by a sentence or word is actually different from the literal meaning.
From my earlier post on Figurative Language it would seem that irony and figurative language have too much in common to be separate terms.
But irony is not the umbrella term that figurative language is. Irony is more specific and limited in its scope. As a literary device, irony can be characterized in three different ways:
Dramatic Irony
This form of irony occurs when the reader knows something that the characters do not. There is a process for developing this type of irony: Inform the audience, develop curiosity in the audience, then let the character find out.
Situational Irony
This type of irony is created when there is an expected outcome and then something different happens.
Verbal Irony
When you use words that are intended to mean something else--verbal irony is created. The attitude or tone that the speaker or writer uses is the key factor in developing verbal irony. When the speaker says the opposite of what they mean--you've found verbal irony.
While reading one of the articles below I found an additional type of irony listed:
Socratic Irony
When you pretend to be 'dumb' to show someone else that they are wrong.
Now you know what types of irony exist. So what? These fragments of figurative language are not useful unless you can place them within your story. The driving force of your story is the tension and emotion created by your characters. If, withholding or manipulating information does not further your story, then, be straightforward.
Learn More
In on a secret? That's dramatic irony - Christopher Warner
What is verbal irony? - Christopher Warner
Definition
The playing around with words such that the meaning implied by a sentence or word is actually different from the literal meaning.
From my earlier post on Figurative Language it would seem that irony and figurative language have too much in common to be separate terms.
But irony is not the umbrella term that figurative language is. Irony is more specific and limited in its scope. As a literary device, irony can be characterized in three different ways:
Dramatic Irony
This form of irony occurs when the reader knows something that the characters do not. There is a process for developing this type of irony: Inform the audience, develop curiosity in the audience, then let the character find out.
Situational Irony
This type of irony is created when there is an expected outcome and then something different happens.
Verbal Irony
When you use words that are intended to mean something else--verbal irony is created. The attitude or tone that the speaker or writer uses is the key factor in developing verbal irony. When the speaker says the opposite of what they mean--you've found verbal irony.
While reading one of the articles below I found an additional type of irony listed:
Socratic Irony
When you pretend to be 'dumb' to show someone else that they are wrong.
Now you know what types of irony exist. So what? These fragments of figurative language are not useful unless you can place them within your story. The driving force of your story is the tension and emotion created by your characters. If, withholding or manipulating information does not further your story, then, be straightforward.
Learn More
- Irony (definition)
- Irony (4 types)
- Five Ways to use Dramatic Irony in your Writing
- How can I make an 'ironic death'
- The Four Reasons To Use Dramatic Irony In Your Story
- Writing With Irony
- A Readers Guide to Irony
- How to tell if you’re using ‘irony’ or ‘sarcasm’
- 3 Types of Irony
Watch the TED-Ed Videos below to learn even more.