Question

What is ironic about what happens to Hauchecorne in "The Piece of String"?

a. He needed some string and then happened to find some.
b. His friend Malandain turns against him rather than standing up for him.
c. His reputation for clever dealing betrays him when he tells the truth.
d. He lives in a town full of thieves and then becomes one.

Answer 1

Answer: C. His reputation for clever dealing betrays him when he tells the truth.

The statement in letter c shows irony because it presents contrasting events. Mr. Hauchecorne is a clever person however the irony strikes on him when nobody believes him and makes fun of his cleverness when he said the truth about the string.