Final answer:
The father in "The Mulberry Tree" ironically loses affection for his wicked concubine after his son's altercation with boy Abel beat up, showcasing a shift in the family's dynamics and emphasizing unintended consequences of past actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The irony in the situation regarding the father of the boy that Abel beat up in "The Mulberry Tree" is that the father, who was initially described as losing his affection for his wicked concubine, did not anticipate his own downfall that indirectly resulted from the actions of his son. The father, once a soldier who fought against savages, represents a figure of authority and strength. However, his pleasure in his son's escape from harm and his realization about the true nature of his concubine showcase the unintended consequences of his own past actions and relationships, leading to a change in the dynamics of power and affection within his personal life.