Navoiy state pedagogical institute the faculty of the english language and literature the department of the english language and literature

THE MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND INNOVATION OF UZBEKISTAN
NAVOIY STATE PEDAGOGICAL INSTITUTE
THE FACULTY OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE


Course paper


THEME: Linguistic means of expressing irony in the novel by O. Henry Cabbages and Kings.


RESEARCHER: Ismoilova Sevinchxon_______ Group 214
SCIENTIFIC ADVISER: Ochilova Nisobegim Nabiyevna __________

The work is defended on “__” ________(date)

and is assessed at “___” scores

Navoi – 2023

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 3
CHAPTER 1. LINGUISTIC MEANS OF EXPRESSING IRONY IN "CABBAGES AND KINGS" BY O. HENRY 7
1.1.Provide an overview of the novel "Cabbages and Kings" and its significance in O. Henry's literary works 7
1.2. Present the aim of the chapter to analyze the linguistic means used by O. Henry to express irony in the narrative 13
CHAPTER 2.EXAMPLES OF DRAMATIC IRONY IN THE NOVEL 19
2.1. Identify significant scenes or plot developments that showcase dramatic irony 19
2.2. Discuss the impact of dramatic irony on the readers' understanding and interpretation of the story 23
CONCLUSION 28
THE LIST OF USED LITERATURE 30

INTRODUCTION

O. Henry's novel "Cabbages and Kings" is a masterful work of literature that showcases his exceptional storytelling and keen wit. Throughout the narrative, irony emerges as a prominent literary device, allowing O. Henry to satirize societal norms, expose human folly, and craft a compelling commentary on the human condition. In this chapter, we will explore the linguistic means employed by O. Henry to express irony in "Cabbages and Kings," analyzing the various techniques used to create a satirical and ironic atmosphere.
Irony, as a rhetorical device, involves the use of language to convey a meaning that is the opposite of what is expected or intended. It enables writers to express their perspectives subtly, adding depth and complexity to their narratives. O. Henry, renowned for his unique style and clever wordplay, employs irony skillfully to captivate readers and offer insightful social critique.
In "Cabbages and Kings," O. Henry utilizes three primary forms of irony: verbal irony, dramatic irony, and situational irony. Verbal irony, also known as sarcasm or satire, involves a deliberate contrast between what is said and what is actually meant. This form of irony is characterized by a witty play on words, where the surface meaning differs from the intended or underlying meaning. O. Henry's use of verbal irony in the novel is particularly notable, as it allows him to challenge conventional wisdom and expose the hypocrisy and pretense of the characters.
The novel is replete with examples of verbal irony, often employed by the characters to convey their skepticism, amusement, or criticism. One such instance occurs when a character exclaims, "He was an impostor. He didn't know anything about his own business. He never was there." Here, the character's statement, ostensibly criticizing another character's lack of expertise, actually reveals the speaker's own ignorance and incompetence. O. Henry skillfully uses this ironic statement to emphasize the theme of deception and the deceptive nature of appearances throughout the novel.

Dramatic irony is another linguistic means employed by O. Henry in "Cabbages and Kings." This type of irony occurs when the audience or readers possess knowledge that the characters in the story do not. O. Henry adeptly employs dramatic irony to engage readers and create suspense, leading to a deeper appreciation of the narrative. Through this technique, he skillfully reveals hidden truths and provides a layer of meaning that enriches the overall reading experience.

In "Cabbages and Kings," dramatic irony is evident in various plot developments and character interactions. For example, in a pivotal scene, the readers may become aware of a character's true intentions or a forthcoming event, while the characters remain oblivious. This disconnect between the readers' knowledge and the characters' understanding creates tension and anticipation, drawing readers further into the story. O. Henry uses dramatic irony as a tool to challenge readers' assumptions and highlight the fallibility of human perception.
Situational irony, the third linguistic means employed by O. Henry, involves a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. This form of irony adds an element of surprise and often serves to emphasize the novel's themes and messages. O. Henry skillfully crafts situations where events unfold in unexpected ways, subverting the readers' expectations and illuminating the complexities of human existence.
Throughout "Cabbages and Kings," situational irony abounds, creating memorable moments and driving the narrative forward. For instance, a character who strives to gain power and influence ultimately finds themselves in a position of vulnerability and
dependence. This ironic twist challenges the notions of power and ambition, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the futility of human aspirations.
In conclusion, O. Henry's "Cabbages and Kings" showcases his adept use of linguistic means to express irony, contributing to the novel's humor, depth, and social commentary. Through verbal irony, dramatic irony, and situational irony, O. Henry crafts a narrative that challenges societal norms, exposes human foibles, and offers readers a fresh perspective on the complexities of life. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into each form of irony, examining specific examples and their implications in the novel, thus unraveling the richness of O. Henry's linguistic craftsmanship.