Question

What is the ironic symbolism behind Aunt Julia singing, "Arrayed for the Bridal"?

a) She's actually getting married
b) She's dressed for a funeral
c) She's unhappy
d) She's excited

Answer 1

The ironic symbolism is that Aunt Julia is dressed for a funeral when singing 'Arrayed for the Bridal,' highlighting a contrast between the usual joy of a wedding and the sadness of a funeral. The correct answer is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ironic symbolism behind Aunt Julia singing, "Arrayed for the Bridal" is that she is actually dressed for a funeral. This represents a stark contrast between the expected joy and celebration of a wedding with the solemnity and grief of a funeral. The juxtaposition highlights the irony of the song choice—a tune that musically implies an upcoming marriage while the situation is diametrically opposite. The lyrics might convey happiness and the start of a new beginning which is typically associated with marriage, but its actual context reflects the end of life and the mourning that accompanies it. The correct answer is B.

Answer 2

Aunt Julia's singing of "Arrayed for the Bridal" symbolizes situational irony, as she is likely dressing for a funeral, contrasting with the wedding implications of the song.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ironic symbolism behind Aunt Julia singing, "Arrayed for the Bridal" reflects the contradiction between the song's title and the actual situation. Rather than preparing for a joyful wedding celebration as the song might suggest, Aunt Julia is dressing for an event that is sorrowful, most likely a funeral, as implied by the references to mourning figures and a funeral bier in the provided context. This stark contrast between the song and the scenario exemplifies situational irony, where what is expected is vastly different from what actually occurs.