Identify an example of situational irony in a novel or play.
An example of situational irony in a novel is found in F
An example of situational irony in a novel is found in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” The character of Jay Gatsby throws lavish parties at his mansion in the hopes of attracting the attention and love of his former flame, Daisy Buchanan. Despite Gatsby’s extraordinary efforts, Daisy remains uninterested and focused on her own shallow desires.
This situation is ironic because Gatsby went to great lengths to create an extravagant and extravagant lifestyle, believing that wealth and material possessions would win Daisy’s heart. However, the irony lies in the fact that Daisy ultimately chooses her husband, Tom Buchanan, who is also wealthy but lacks Gatsby’s genuine love and devotion. In this case, Gatsby’s pursuit of happiness and love through material wealth results in an outcome that is completely opposite to his expectations. The situational irony highlights the theme of the emptiness and superficiality of the American Dream in the novel.