In "Examination Day" by Henry Slesar, irony plays a crucial role in conveying the story's themes and deepening its emotional impact. The use of irony helps illuminate the underlying message about government control, fear of intelligence, and the consequences of societal norms.
RACE Strategy:
Restate the question: How does the author use irony to contribute to the story's meaning?
Answer the question: Slesar employs irony in "Examination Day" to highlight the tragic consequences of a society that fears intelligence and conformity.
Cite evidence: For example, the story centers around a government-mandated intelligence test taken by twelve-year-old children. The main character, young young boy named young young boy named young young boy named young young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named youngyoung boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young boy named young
Explain how the evidence supports your answer: The irony here lies in the tension between Henry's intelligence and the society's harsh response. Instead of celebrating giftedness, the government sees it as a threat, leading to a tragic outcome. The fact that a test designed to assess and perhaps even reward intelligence results in deadly consequences for Henry is profoundly ironic. This chilling resolution underscores the story's critique of a society that punishes exceptionalism and conformity, emphasizing the dangers of an oppressive regime focused on controlling its citizens.
Final Summary: Through irony, Slesar effectively communicates a haunting message about the value of intelligence and the dire consequences that can arise in a society that fears and suppresses it. The tragic fate of Henry serves as a warning against the dangers of conformity and the sacrifice of individuality.
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