Question

Consider the following examples of irony. Classify each as verbal, dramatic, or situational and think about the purpose of each example.
Danforth says “I judge nothing” in response to the evidence that Proctor plows on Sunday

Elizabeth Proctor, an honest woman, lies after Proctor has already confessed

Proctor screams at the end: “I say God is dead…I hear the boot of Lucifer, I see his filthy face. And it is my face, and yours, Danforth…”

Readers know the girls are faking it when Danforth and the courts believe their act

Finally, summarize the purpose of irony in this act of the play. Why did Miller include so much irony? Explain.

Answer 1

Dramatic Irony: The characters think one thing to be true, but the audience knows something else to be true

The reader already knows that all these irregular events are set up by Abigail. Though Danforth does not know this so he sides with her.