How Does Rowling Use Situational Irony In Lying

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An author uses irony to either create suspense, or for them to keep the reader interested. J.K. Rowling uses situational irony while Umbridge punishes Harry for spreading “lies” about the Dark Lord, Voldemort. Although Harry does spread the truth, Umbridge forces him in detention to write “‘I must not tell lies’” (Rowling 266). Harry is then forced to do this until his hand is scarred with the message, and Umbridge becomes satisfied with the pain she is inflicting. What is ironic about this disgusting piece of punishment, is that it itself is not true and is simply used to keep the truth from reaching the general public. Umbridge does not know about Voldemort’s return, but Harry and the reader know that it is not a lie but the truth.