What type of irony occurs when the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do?

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience possesses knowledge that the characters in a story do not, creating a layer of tension or suspense. This technique is often employed in literature, film, and theater to engage the audience more deeply by allowing them to anticipate the characters' reactions based on the information they already hold. For instance, in a play, if the audience knows that a character is walking into a trap while the character remains unaware, this creates a poignant moment where the audience feels both anticipation and concern for the character. Understanding this type of irony enriches the experience of storytelling, illustrating how varied perceptions between audience and characters can enhance emotional depth and dramatic tension.