Dramatic irony exists when what appears true to one or more characters is not what the audience or reader knows to be true. Discuss Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony in his portrayal of King Duncan. What does Duncan believe to be true? In contrast, what do we know to be true? How does the dramatic irony surrounding Duncan add to the play’s effectiveness? Address these questions in a brief essay that uses details from The Tragedy of Macbeth, Act I, to support your ideas.

Examples of dramatic irony that students may mention include: Duncan's elevating Macbeth to Thane of Cawdor as a reward for his loyalty and bravery when, unbeknownst to him, Macbeth soon seems willing to betray and murder Duncan; the fact that the previous Thane of Cawdor was guilty of treason but Macbeth is actually planning treason too; Duncan's remarks about the lovely Macbeth castle when in fact it may be the site of Duncan's murder; and Duncan's remarks showing his love for and trust in the Macbeths when in fact the Macbeths are planning to kill him. In discussing how the dramatic irony adds to the play's effectiveness, they may say that it underscores the innocence and goodness of Duncan and builds suspense for the audience.

Explanation:

TRUST

write a five paragraph essay, you were taught to have three body paragraphs. a university essay is more flexible than that, depending on its length and on what it is trying to say. a short university essay may have three body paragraphs, but it may have more.