The Intersection of Irony and Social Commentary in O. Henry’s Short Stories
Keywords:
short story, situational irony, dramatic irony, plot twist, surprise endingAbstract
This article explores the intersection of irony and social commentary in the short stories of O. Henry, a master of situational irony. Through an analysis of several iconic works, including “The Gift of the Magi”, “The Ransom of Red Chief”, and “The Cop and the Anthem”, the article examines how O. Henry uses irony not only as a narrative device but also as a tool for critiquing societal norms, economic inequality, and human behavior. His stories, often humorous yet poignant, reveal the absurdities and unpredictabilities of life, while offering insightful reflections on issues like poverty, materialism, and the human condition. The combination of clever ironic twists and underlying social critique makes O. Henry’s stories both entertaining and thought-provoking, underscoring their timeless relevance.
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