Dramatic Irony and Irony

What is Dramatic Irony?

• Dramatic irony is a literary device where the audience knows something the characters do not.
• It builds tension and suspense, as the audience understands the real meaning of events.

Related Literary Devices

• Foreshadowing: Hints or clues about events that will happen later in the play.
  • Example: Duncan's visit to Macbeth's castle in Act 1, Scene 5, is foreshadowed by Lady Macbeth's line, "He that's coming / Must be provided for."

What is Irony?

• Irony occurs when a statement or action has two meanings—one of which contrasts with the expected outcome.
  • Example: Lady Macbeth refers to her duties as a hostess, but the subtext implies preparation for Duncan's murder.

Key Example from Act 1, Scene 6

• Duncan describes Macbeth's castle as a "pleasant seat" with a sweet and inviting atmosphere.

  
  • This is ironic because, while Duncan admires the castle, the audience knows Macbeth is planning his murder there.