Dramatic irony | Definition Examples | Britannica Dramatic irony, a literary device by which the audience’s or reader’s understanding of events or individuals in a work surpasses that of its characters It is most often associated with the theater, but it can be found in other forms of art
Dramatic Irony - Examples and Definition of Dramatic Irony What is Dramatic Irony? Dramatic irony occurs when the audience (or reader) knows something that one or more of the characters in a story do not This difference in knowledge creates a sense of anticipation and often suspense
Dramatic Irony - Definition and Examples | LitCharts Dramatic irony is a plot device often used in theater, literature, film, and television to highlight the difference between a character's understanding of a given situation, and that of the audience
DRAMATIC IRONY Definition Meaning - Merriam-Webster The meaning of DRAMATIC IRONY is incongruity between a situation developed in a drama and the accompanying words or actions that is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play : irony
What is Dramatic Irony? Definition and Examples - StudioBinder Dramatic irony is when the audience understands more about a situation than some of the characters do Oftentimes, this understanding leads to an element of suspense because we know the character (s) will learn the truth eventually – but we don't know when or how
What Is Dramatic Irony? | Examples Meaning - Scribbr Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows information that the characters do not, creating tension or humor This literary device enhances the audience’s engagement, as they anticipate the characters’ reactions upon discovering the truth
15 Dramatic Irony Examples (2026) - Helpful Professor Dramatic irony is a literary device where the audience is aware of information or events taking place in a TV show (or movie or book) while the characters themselves are oblivious