FUNCTIONS OF LEXICAL STYLISTIC DEVICES: IRONY
Keywords:
Irony, lexical stylistic devices, verbal irony, dramatic irony, situational irony, literary critique, emotional engagement, narrative complexity, satire, social commentary, literary analysis, emotional resonance, literature, stylistic functions, storytelling, Shakespeare, Poe. Irony is a multifaceted stylistic device that adds depth and complexity to language and literature. Its primary function is to highlight contrasts between expectations and reality, often evoking humor, critique, or poignancy. Irony operates on several levels, including verbal, dramatic, and situational irony.Abstract
This study investigates the role of irony as a lexical stylistic device, exploring its various forms—verbal, dramatic, and situational irony. Each type of irony is analyzed for its function in literature and language, particularly in how it contributes to the text's meaning, tone, and emotional impact. The paper also discusses the broader implications of irony in enhancing narrative complexity, offering a critique of social issues, and engaging readers on a deeper level. Through examples from literature, such as The Cask of Amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe and Julius Caesar by Shakespeare, the study highlights how irony shapes reader interpretation and enriches storytelling. Furthermore, irony's use as a tool for satire, critique, and emotional resonance underscores its enduring significance in both literature and daily discourse. The paper provides a comprehensive understanding of irony's stylistic functions and its impact on both form and content in literary works.
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References
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Stein, M. (2015). Irony and Modernism. Cambridge University Press.
