How does irony function in literature?

Irony is a literary device that fundamentally hinges on the disparity between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. This contrast can manifest in various ways, such as situational irony, where the outcome of an event is incongruous with what was anticipated. For instance, a character might strive for a certain outcome, only for events to unfold in an entirely unexpected way, thereby eliciting both surprise and sometimes humor in the audience. This unexpected twist not only engages readers but also prompts them to consider deeper themes and meanings within the narrative.

In contrast, while providing a moral lesson is essential in many literary works, it does not encapsulate the essence of irony itself. The depiction of a character's dreams can serve to highlight their aspirations or hopes but does not inherently involve the element of contrast that defines irony. Similarly, although character relationships can be enhanced by ironic situations, this is more of a byproduct of irony rather than its primary function. Therefore, the essence of irony lies in its ability to create a significant juxtaposition between expectation and reality, which is central to its impact in literature.