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How Is Irony Used In The Most Dangerous Game

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In Richard Connell’s famous short story, “The Most Dangerous Game,” irony is an important literary device that drives the reader through the narrative, making them more invested. Connell uses irony at the beginning to create an ironic twist where Rainsford, the original hunter, becomes the hunter. The persuasive author not only uses irony to create a suspenseful twist, but he also uses it to satisfy the reader when the unexpected win of Rainsford becomes real. Richard Connell’s genius literary techniques have inspired many modern-day creators with their work in the professional industry. Suzanne Collins is one specific writer who was inspired by Connell and turned this inspiration into her brilliant novel, “The Hunger Games,” which has impacted …show more content…

Similarly, a literary critic breaks down the short story. Gwenethe Dunleavy not only recognized the irony used, but also divulged how the story’s meaning creates conflict for the character. She says, “Not only does the plot contain reversals that challenge the surface meaning of the story, but also the characters, with their sometimes opposed, sometimes parallel visions of the world, establish expectations that are ironically reversed by the end of the story. The style intentionally directs the reader to think in terms of opposition.” (Dunleavy). Gweneth recognized how Connell uses the techniques to entertain readers and make them want to continue reading the story. Irony holds a big part in this short story, and it is used in many ways. Along with irony reversing the roles in the story, it also reveals how Rainsford beat his odds of losing against General Zaroff. This teaches Rainsford a lesson and how it feels to be in the “game” while also giving readers an apprehensive lead-up to the outcome of the story. One specific novel has shown beating expected odds in a very powerful way. It is the second highest-grossing film based on young adult books and has fascinated so many people of all …show more content…

On guard, Rainsford." . . . He had never slept in a better bed, Rainsford decided” (Connell). The surprising outcome of the story satisfies readers related to how relieved Katniss’s win was for readers and others watching the movie. The clear influence on Collins allowed her to showcase her work to millions of people. “Many elements that Connell uses uncritically or even apparently approvingly become, in Collins' hands, tools to question and reshape both the world in which Katniss Everdeen lives and the genre in which her story appears” (Montgomery). Connell uses tools that are important in keeping the reader engaged from the start to the end of the story. The author of the article connects both authors with similar techniques. It exemplifies how “The Most Dangerous Game” inspired Suzanne Collins in the process of bringing her story to life. The irony of “The Most Dangerous Game” captivates readers with unexpected twists and outcomes throughout the narrative. By using irony as a literary device, Richard Connell gives readers something to think about throughout the story. His use of ironic twists adds depth to the plot and lets readers question what will happen

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