Final Answer:
The irony of Ross' response to Macduff about his wife and children in Scotland is that Ross initially evades the truth and provides misleading information, stating that Macduff's family is well when, in reality, they have been brutally murdered on Macbeth's orders.
Explanation:
The irony in Ross' response lies in the stark contrast between his words and the tragic reality of Macduff's family. When Macduff, devastated by the news of his family's fate, inquires about their well-being, Ross deliberately skirts the truth, offering a misleading reassurance. This creates a dramatic irony for the audience, as they are aware of the brutal murders ordered by Macbeth, making Ross' seemingly comforting words a poignant betrayal of the truth.
Ross' choice to withhold the painful reality from Macduff adds depth to the unfolding tragedy. The audience witnesses the unfolding tragedy with a sense of foreknowledge, intensifying the emotional impact of Macduff's eventual discovery. The irony in Ross' response serves as a narrative device, heightening the tension and emphasizing the tragic consequences of Macbeth's ruthless pursuit of power. Overall, Ross' deceptive reply underscores the pervasive atmosphere of deceit and manipulation within the play, contributing to its themes of betrayal and the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition.