What is Irony?

Find out what irony is, how writers use irony and how you can analyse it in any English exam, whether you’re studying AQA GCSE English Literature, or preparing for Edexcel A Level English Language. We also include some of literature’s finest examples of irony, with our own expert analysis.

Written by: Nick Redgrove

Published

12 July 2024

Read time

6 minutes

Contents

What is irony?

Irony is a literary and rhetorical device which involves a contrast between what is expected or intended and what actually occurs. Irony enables writers to add further layers of meaning to their writing. Consider the following example from George Orwell’s novel, Animal Farm:

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

This phrase exemplifies verbal irony perfectly. The first part of the sentence suggests fairness and equality, but the second part entirely subverts that expectation. Orwell employs irony here to criticise political systems that claim to support equality but in reality perpetuate inequality.

Etymology of the word irony

The term “irony” has its roots in an Ancient Greek word (eironeia) that translates to “feigned ignorance”. Irony is generally saying one thing but meaning another. This etymology reflects the original idea of irony in Greek drama — where eiron, a character, would feign ignorance to outsmart alazon, a boastful character. Although more complex ideas about irony have developed — for example when talking about dramatic or situational irony — it has always retained its connection to these linguistic origins that point towards a contradiction between speech and intended meaning.

Why do writers use irony?

Writers use irony to achieve different effects, and it can add numerous layers of meaning to a narrative so that certain ideas or themes go beyond a surface interpretation. For instance, they may wish to explore controversial or sensitive issues in a more nuanced manner, and irony enables them to do this. Additionally, irony can inject humour, create dramatic tension or emphasise the thematic elements within a narrative.

Different types of irony

Type of irony	Definition of irony	Example
Verbal irony	Verbal irony is stating the opposite of what you mean and it is often used for emphasis or humour (overstatement differs from verbal irony as this involves using exaggeration to emphasise a point)	“The dead man very considerately got up…” — The Sign of Four, Arthur Conan Doyle (by stating the impossible, the writer creates humour)
Situational irony	Situational irony involves a disparity between expectation and reality, where the outcome differs from what was anticipated	“Besides she is a deceitful girl; she has a tendency to deceit” — Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë (Jane is accused of being deceitful, while Georgiana who is not accused, is actually the one who lies)
Dramatic irony	Dramatic irony arises when the audience or reader possesses information that the characters to not	“The Titanic unsinkable, absolutely unsinkable” — An Inspector Calls, J.B. Priestley (the audience is aware the Titanic sank a few months after the play is set and irony is used to convey Mr Birling’s foolishness and arrogance)

While understanding verbal or situational irony isn’t always needed in exam responses, you can get great marks for exploring how writers use dramatic irony in their texts, so do identify any key plot points that involve dramatic irony when you come to revise.

Examples of irony and how to analyse it

Like analysis of other language techniques, it is always important to comment on the effects of the irony you find in your texts, not simply to spot where a writer has used irony. Comment on the additional meaning a writer is trying to convey when they use irony: can you interpret those deeper layers of meaning?

Irony example	Analysis
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife” — Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 1	This quote is an example of verbal irony: The use of “universally acknowledged” and “must be” exaggerates the claim and hints at Austen’s scepticism towards this supposed truth The witty opening statement immediately establishes the satirical and humorous tone of the novel It also foreshadows the central themes involving marriage, wealth and societal expectations By presenting this ironic statement, Austen encourages the reader to question this premise
“I am light as a feather, I am as happy as an angel, I am as merry as a schoolboy. I am giddy as a drunken man” — A Christmas Carol, Stave 5	This quote is an example of situational irony: The irony highlights Scrooge’s transformation as his former miserly demeanour contrasts sharply with his later generosity Dickens uses irony to underscore his theme of redemption: Scrooge, who once refused to donate to charity, becomes a generous benefactor to the poor Although he treated Bob Cratchit poorly in the past, he gives him a raise and becomes like a father to Tiny Tim
“We’re blood brothers, Eddie, an’ that’s somethin’ nobody can take away from us” — Blood Brothers, Act 1	This quote is an example of dramatic irony: The audience knows that Mickey and Eddie are actually twin brothers separated at birth and this creates anticipation for the moment when the truth will be revealed The irony lies in that the boys are unaware of their true relationship in this act when they become “blood brothers” and this makes their relationship more poignant for the audience This irony runs throughout the play, from their first meeting until the final moments of their lives: Irony underscores their inevitable tragedy, because their connection will indeed be “taken away”

What is Irony?

What is irony?

Etymology of the word irony

Why do writers use irony?

Different types of irony

Examples of irony and how to analyse it

Further reading

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Author: Nick Redgrove

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