THE ANALYSIS OF VERBAL IRONY IN ENGLISH LITERATURE

Verbal irony is a complex linguistic and literary phenomenon in which a speaker conveys a meaning that is opposite to the literal interpretation of their words. This study aims to explore the use and functions of verbal irony in English literature, analyzing how it has been employed by various authors across different time periods to achieve humor, criticism, and deeper thematic resonance. By examining key literary works, this paper highlights the role of verbal irony in character development, narrative progression, and social commentary. The study also addresses the challenges of interpreting irony and its impact on readers.