i had some difficulty understanding what was going on in this story, but what could be an example of both dramatic irony in the story and irony of situation? i really tried to think about it, but I really have trouble with Poe's way of writing...thank you!

1 answer

Dramatic irony occurs when there's a gap between what the character says and what is generally understood. When Montresor suggests they go back because of Fortunato's cough, he's demonstrating dramatic irony. He obviously doesn't want to go back, but manipulates Fortunato to keep on going, despite his appearance of concern for his health.

Situational irony is the difference between what the reader expects and what actually happens in the story. Did you really anticipate the macabre ending? Check this site for more information.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irony#Situational_irony