How Does Dramatic Irony Function in Literary Works?
Dramatic irony serves as a compelling literary device by allowing readers to possess knowledge that characters do not, intensifying suspense and emotional engagement. In exploring what is dramatic irony in literature, BookMyEssay explains that this technique often highlights conflicts, deepens character flaws, and creates anticipation as audiences await a character’s realization of truth. Dramatic irony is frequently employed in tragedies, such as Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” where the audience knows Juliet is alive, while Romeo believes she is dead. This dissonance between audience awareness and character understanding amplifies the emotional stakes and narrative depth in powerful and thought-provoking ways.