Make annotations on dramatic irony

Question

Some students of this genre find that the best way to examine it is to deal with the way horror fiction is organized or structured. Examining the organization of a horror story shows that it shares certain traits with other types of fiction. Horror stories share the use of suspense as a tactic with many other kinds of literature. The tension we feel when a character goes into the attic, down into the basement, or just into the abandoned house is partially a result of suspense. We don’t know what is going to happen. But that suspense is intensified by our knowledge of the genre. We know that characters involved in the world of horror always meet something awful when they go where they shouldn’t. Part of the tension is created because they are doing something we know is going to get them in trouble. Stephen King refers directly to our anticipation of horror. In Salem’s Lot Susan approaches the house which is the source of evil. “She found herself thinking of those drive-in horror movie epics where the heroine goes venturing up the narrow attic stairs…or down into some dark, cobwebby cellar…and she…thinking…I’d never do that!” Of course Susan’s fears are justified. She does end up dead in the basement, a victim of the vampire.

Answer 1

In the provided excerpt, there are several instances of dramatic irony that can be annotated to illustrate how this literary device enhances the horror genre. Here are some annotations to guide your understanding:

1. Suspense and Audience Knowledge: The initial mention of suspense creates an atmosphere where readers are already aware of the conventions of horror fiction. Annotate here to highlight that readers typically understand that a character's exploration into dark or forbidden spaces signifies impending danger. This sets up a scenario where the audience experiences tension that the characters are often oblivious to.

2. Character's Ignorance vs. Reader's Knowledge: In the reference to characters venturing into risk-laden areas (like attics and basements), emphasize the stark contrast between the characters’ naivety and the audience's foreboding awareness. This is a classic case of dramatic irony—the audience knows that these actions will lead to disaster, while characters often exhibit curiosity or courage, leading them to make poor choices.

3. Stephen King’s Narrative Technique: When King mentions Susan's thoughts regarding horror movie conventions, it adds a meta-textual layer to the narrative. Annotate this moment to note how her internal dialogue acts as commentary on the very genre she is part of. It creates dramatic irony because she is aware of horror tropes yet feels compelled to act against her instincts, showcasing a deep irony in her decision-making process.

4. Foreshadowing of Doom: The final line revealing Susan’s death at the hands of the vampire serves as a critical moment of dramatic irony. Annotate this as a culmination of built-up tension, where the audience's knowledge of her fate clashes with her momentary disbelief. The phrase “her fears are justified” underscores the inevitability; the reader anticipates her doom, making the moment of realization even more chilling.

5. The Role of Genre Awareness: Highlight how the interplay between genre expectations and character actions creates a deeper emotional impact. Annotate that the audience's familiarity with horror conventions not only heightens suspense but also enriches their engagement with the narrative, as they simultaneously root for characters while wishing they would make different choices.

In summary, the use of dramatic irony in this excerpt serves to enhance the suspense and emotional resonance of the horror genre by juxtaposing the knowledge of the reader with the ignorance of the characters, ultimately leading to inevitable and tragic outcomes.