Question

What type of verbal and dramatic irony are found in ‘The ministers black veil’ ?

Answer 1

Answer:

Verbal Irony : We say just the opposite of what we mean

Dramatic Irony : We know something a character does not know

Verbal Irony is a sub-type of Dramatic Irony

Explanation:

The author's message is a story that reveals something about life and people. It explains how a conflict is resolved.

Example of Verbal Irony in the story are:

1. Squire Saunders does not have an “accidental lapse of memory”; he does not want to invite Mr. Hooper. Criticism: social hypocrisy, concern with appearances, fear of public opinion.  

2. A “superstitious old woman” is not a reliable witness of an alleged supernatural event. Criticism: credulity, gossip, and superstition.  

3. The matter is not “too weighty”; the deputations fail because of their fear. Criticism: failures of leaders ruled by their own fear, which they can’t admit.  

4. As Mr. Hooper becomes more distant and less human to his congregation, he becomes more efficient. Criticism: Fear, not love or goodness, drives the Puritans’ religious beliefs.