Through the Tunnel

by Doris Lessing

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Student Question

What is an example of irony in Through the Tunnel?

Quick answer:

An example of situational irony in "Through the Tunnel" occurs when Jerry, a young boy determined to prove himself by swimming through an underwater tunnel, succeeds against expectations despite his initial fear and lack of skill. Dramatic irony might be seen in how the reader knows the risks involved, while Jerry's mother remains unaware of the extent of his challenge. Verbal irony is less prominent but could involve Jerry's reassurances to his mother about his safety.

Expert Answers

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Hey there!  I have not read this story, but I can give you examples of these three types of irony, and perhaps you can go back through the book and locate them for yourself.

Irony is basically something that happens that is opposite of what you expect.

Situational Irony--someone does something you didn't expect.  For example, two young people are dining and he, nervously, drops to one knee in front of her.  They have been dating for five years, and he says, "Darling, would you do me the honor of being my wife?"  She responds, "Are you kidding?  This has been a fun ride, but you're not my type." 

Verbal Irony--when what someone says something that is opposite in meaning of the words said, or opposite of what you expect them to say.  For example, if someone says, "I could care less" but we MEAN, "I couldn't care less" that is verbal irony.  Or, with a tone of voice "That's a nice dress" when we really mean the dress is hideous and we wouldn't be caught dead in it, that's verbal irony.  This is often mistaken for sarcasm.

Dramatic Irony--is when the audience or another character has more information than other characters on the stage.  The best and maybe most famous example of this is when Romeo is hiding in the bushes under Juliet's balcony.  She has no idea he's there, but the audience does.  She is confessing her love to Romeo without knowing it.

Hope this helps!

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