Explanation
Ironic tension arising when audience and characters possess unequal knowledge of decisive circumstances. Makes one event appear simultaneously from a limited and a superior perspective.
Example
Romeo believes Juliet dead while the audience knows her condition.
Counterexample
A character knowingly says the opposite of what they mean.
Distinction
Unlike verbal irony, dramatic irony depends on unequal knowledge within narrative structure.
Effect on thought and perception
Makes one event appear simultaneously from a limited and a superior perspective.
Resonance
The audience sees the crossing while the character sees only the path.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Dramatic irony“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-METZ2-0011. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-METZ2-0011The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.