In Act 4 Scene 4, the Capulets are preparing for Juliet’s wedding; however, as readers of the play, we know that Juliet has taken Friar Lawrence’s potion and is “dead.” What type of irony is this

1 answer

The situation you described in Act 4, Scene 4 of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" exemplifies dramatic irony. Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters in the play do. In this case, the Capulets believe they are making preparations for Juliet's wedding, while the audience is aware that Juliet is actually in a death-like sleep due to the potion she took. This contrast between the characters' understanding and the audience's knowledge creates a layer of tension and poignancy, as we recognize the tragic misunderstanding that will unfold.