Question

Which option best describes the dramatic irony in this passage?

BENVOLIO
This wind you talk of blows us from ourselves.
Supper is done, and we shall come too late.
ROMEO
I fear too early, for my mind misgives
Some consequence yet hanging in the stars
Shall bitterly begin his fearful date
With this night's revels, and expire the term
Of a despised life closed in my breast
By some vile forfeit of untimely death.
But he that hath the steerage of my course
Direct my sail. On, lusty gentlemen.
-William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, Act I, scene iv, lines 113-
120.
OA. Benvolio is worried that Romeo will never fall in love again, but we
know Romeo is about to meet Juliet at the Capulets' ball.
OB. Romeo is worried about going to the Capulets' ball because he's
fallen out of love with Rosaline, but the audience knows this isn't
true.
O C. Romeo worries the events of this night will result in "untimely
death." He doesn't know who will die, but the audience knows it's
Romeo and Juliet.

Answer 1

The passage illustrates dramatic irony as Romeo expresses fear of untimely death, while the audience knows it is Romeo and Juliet who will die.

Step-by-step explanation:

The dramatic irony in this passage is best described as follows: Romeo worries that the events of the night will result in untimely death, but the audience knows that it will be Romeo and Juliet who die. This creates a sense of tension and anticipation for the audience, as they are aware of the tragic outcome of the play while Romeo remains unaware.

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