Final answer:
Irony in literature is a discrepancy between expectations and reality or between literal and intended meaning, used to add depth or highlight human follies. It is a literary device that allows for complex interpretations and can shape a reader's understanding of a text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The definition of irony in literature refers to a situation or a use of language that involves some kind of discrepancy. The outcome of a situation might be completely different than what was expected, or words may convey a meaning opposite to their literal one. Irony can also occur when the audience is aware of something that the characters are not, which can create dramatic tension or humor. Writers like Jonathan Swift and Charles Dickens employed irony and satire to criticize societal norms, pointing out the incongruities between appearance and reality, or to highlight foolishness and vice in human behaviors.
Irony is a tool for writers to reflect contradictions and complexities of human existence without providing simple answers or summaries. In literary criticism, recognizing the use of irony is crucial for understanding the layered meanings within literature. It gives readers insight into characters, settings, and can underline themes, often allowing for multifaceted interpretation rather than a single, reductive message.
Notably, the use of irony should be discerned carefully as it can potentially shift the focus from a thematic message to a more humorous take, which might either enhance or obscure the intended significance of the text.