Final answer:
Verbal irony involves a character saying one thing but meaning the opposite, often to convey humor or criticism. It reflects on the intended meaning and writer's intent, adding depth and complexity to literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Verbal irony is closely connected to intended meaning and writer's intent. It occurs when a character says something but means something entirely different. In verbal irony, what is said or done is meant to convey the opposite meaning.
For example, when a character in a story says, "What a beautiful day!" during a storm, the character is using verbal irony because the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal words spoken.
This technique can reflect the character's mood or the writer's intent to highlight a contrast between the situation and the character's reaction.
Using verbal irony effectively in literature can create humorous effects, add depth to dialogue, and allow the author to engage the audience in a more sophisticated way. Writers like Jonathan Swift and Charles Dickens are known to use irony and satire to criticize society and convey their messages subtly yet powerfully.