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How Does Dahl Use Irony In Lamb To The Slaughter

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The use of irony is present in many short stories as well as in other mediums such as television. The author Roald Dahl effectively uses irony in several of his literary works to enhance and provide depth. In the short story “ Lamb to the Slaughter” Dahl expresses different types of irony to add depth to his story. Irony is a key component in “Lamb to the Slaughter”. The use of Irony helps increase the readers focus on the difference between how things could be, and the way they actually are. Irony also contributes to suspense within the piece. To begin with, Dahl’s use of irony to provide depth is a key component of the short story. The plot itself is structured around the use of irony. Without irony the story would not be as it is. Certainly, …show more content…

Without this contrast the story's plot would be bland and uninteresting. A circumstance where irony provides this contrast appears in the introduction of the short story when Patrick speaks to Mary: "I've got something to tell you… I know it's a tough time to be telling you this, but there simply wasn't any other way. Of course, I'll give you money and see that you're taken care of.” (Dahl 2). This moment of irony provides the disparity that helps pull the readers in and focus on the differences. Whereas the readers at first believe that Patrick Maloney has something pleasant to say to Mary but in actuality he is informing her he is leaving her. Another instance where this differentiation is prevalent takes place at the end while the officers are eating the leg of lamb and on of the officers says referring to the murder weapon,” It's probably right under our noses.” (Dahl 4). This moment of irony is similar to Patricks statement to Mary at the beginning of the story, yet different in the sense it is the characters who believe something but the reality is different instead of the readers believing something and reality being different. This event provides contrast for the readers as it displays the characters unawareness of the

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