Question

Which of the following is an example of verbal irony in the context of the story?

A) Mrs. Hutchinson's terrified screams
B) Old Man Warner's condescending remarks
C) Mr. Summers' orderly directions
D) Mrs. Delacroix's cheerful greeting to Mrs. Hutchinson

Answer 1

Mrs. Delacroix's cheerful greeting to Mrs. Hutchinson in Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is an example of verbal irony, as it contrasts with the grim reality of the lottery itself.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of verbal irony in the context of a story could be Mrs. Delacroix's cheerful greeting to Mrs. Hutchinson. Verbal irony occurs when what is said is the opposite of what is meant. Given the underlying tension of Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," where Mrs. Hutchinson ends up being selected for a grim fate, Mrs. Delacroix's hearty, friendly greeting to her early in the story is ironic. We expect anxiety or concern considering the circumstances of the lottery, but instead, we get a display of warm normalcy.

Verbal irony can significantly alter the tone of a scene or the reader's perception of a character's intentions. It creates a contrast between expectations and reality and often adds to the thematic complexity of a work.