Macbeth: The Story Within

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Dramatic Irony

Definition: irony that occurs when the meaning of the situation is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play.

Example:

"His absense, sir, lays blame upon his promise. Please't your highness to grace us with your royal company.
The table's full.
Here is a place reserv'd, sir.
Where?
Here, my good lord. What is't that moves your highness?
Which of you have done this?

What, my good lord?"
(Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 43-49).


Explanation:

The Ghost of Banquo sits in Macbeth's chair at the banquet. It may not be clear to the characters in the play, but it is ironic as Banquo's heirs will eventually take over the throne of Scotland, which is currently occupied by Macbeth.

ghostofbanquo.jpg

Verbal Irony

Courtney Brock, Mr. Brisebois, English 11 A2, May 12, 2005