Question

Choose the example that uses verbal irony from the following quotes from the Harry Potter series:

• A. And [the Death Eaters would] love to have me, said Harry sarcastically. We'd be best pals if they didn't keep trying to do me in.
• B. Harry: Yes, said Harry stiffly.
  Professor Snape: Yes, sir.
  Harry: There's no need to call me sir Professor.
• C. Umbridge: Potter, do something! Tell them I mean no harm.
  Harry: I'm sorry, Professor. But I must not tell lies.
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A And [the Death Eaters would] love to have me, said Harry sarcastically. We'd be best pals if they didn't keep trying to do me in.

Irony is a figure of speech or literary device in which what actually happens is completely different or opposite from the reader or audience's expectations.

Option A is correct. Verbal irony shows a contrast between what is said and what is meant. Though Harry is described as speaking sarcastically, there is verbal irony in what he says, particularly in the line "And [the Death Eaters would] love to have me". Harry says "love to have me" as if the Death Eaters would welcome him like a friend, but what he intends is the complete opposite: by "have me", he means that the Death Eaters would love to devour his soul. There is a contrast between what he said and what he actually meant.

Options B and C are incorrect as they sarcastic replies. Not verbal irony. The difference between sarcasm and verbal irony is that most sarcastic comments do not, in fact, contain a contrast between what is said and meant. Moreover, sarcasm is mainly used to ridicule the other person or express contempt. In B, there is no contrast. Harry is being truthful when he says there is no need for Snape to call him "sir". In C, too, Harry is telling the truth that he must not tell lies, just as Umbridge "taught" him. Moreover, there is an obvious tone of contempt and ridicule in both cases, which makes both options sarcastic replies.

Option D is incorrect as the answer lies in A.