What are some examples of irony in literature?

Can you give me some examples of irony in literature?

Sure! One classic example is in Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," where the audience knows Juliet is alive, but Romeo believes she is dead.

That's interesting! Are there any examples of situational irony?

Absolutely! In O. Henry's short story "The Gift of the Magi," a couple sacrifices their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other, only to render the gifts useless.

What about verbal irony? Can you explain that?

Verbal irony occurs when someone says the opposite of what they mean. A famous example is in "Pride and Prejudice" when Mr. Darcy says he admires Elizabeth's 'fine eyes' while being critical of her.

Thanks! Can you tell me more about dramatic irony?

Dramatic irony happens when the audience knows something that the characters do not. A well-known example is in "Romeo and Juliet" again, where the audience knows about the plan that leads to the tragic ending.