What does "dramatic irony" involve in a narrative?

• A. The audience knows more than the characters do
• B. Characters are aware of future events
• C. Audience members express opinions about characters
• D. The plot unfolds without any tension

Answer: (A)

Dramatic irony is a literary device that occurs when the audience possesses knowledge that the characters in the narrative do not have. This disparity creates tension and engagement, as viewers or readers anticipate how the characters will react when they inevitably discover the truth. For instance, in a story where a character plans a surprise party for another character, the audience knows about the party while the character remains oblivious, creating suspense as the narrative unfolds.

Understanding the other options highlights what dramatic irony does not involve. The second option suggests that characters are aware of future events; however, dramatic irony is defined by the opposite. The third option refers to audience opinions about characters, which does not directly relate to the concept of dramatic irony but rather concerns audience engagement or critique. Lastly, unfolding a plot without tension does not constitute dramatic irony, as this literary device is characterized by the tension created through the audience's superior knowledge.