The Application of Irony in Linguistics: A Case Study of Gone with the Wind

Chapter 2 Literature Review

2.1 Overview of Foreign Research

Irony and sarcasm have always been important aspects of language, and their significance has been studied extensively in the field of linguistics. Irony, a rhetorical device that is used to express the opposite of what is actually meant, has been found to be a common feature in literary works. In particular, the use of irony in film and literature has been the focus of numerous studies in recent years. Scholars have identified various types of irony, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony, each of which has its own unique characteristics and uses.

One of the most notable examples of irony in literature is the novel 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. The novel is set during the American Civil War and depicts the struggles of a young girl, Scarlett O'Hara, as she tries to survive in a world that is rapidly changing. Mitchell uses irony to highlight the absurdity of war and the social norms of the time. For instance, the character of Scarlett is often portrayed as being selfish and manipulative, and yet she is also admired for her strength and resilience. This irony is used to comment on the contradictions of the society in which she lives.

Another example of the use of irony in literature is the novel 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell. The novel is a political satire that uses the allegory of a group of farm animals to comment on the events of the Russian Revolution. Orwell uses irony to expose the hypocrisy and corruption of the ruling class and to highlight the dangers of totalitarianism. The use of irony in the novel has been studied extensively by scholars, who have identified various types of irony, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony.

2.2 Overview of Domestic Research

In China, research on irony and sarcasm in language has also been carried out. Scholars have explored the use of irony in Chinese literature and film, as well as its application in everyday communication. One of the most prominent examples of the use of irony in Chinese literature is the novel 'Dream of the Red Chamber' by Cao Xueqin. The novel is a masterpiece of Chinese literature and is known for its complex characters and intricate plot. Scholars have identified various instances of irony in the novel, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony.

In recent years, the use of irony in Chinese film has also been a topic of interest for scholars. The film 'Crazy Stone' by Ning Hao is a popular example of the use of irony in Chinese cinema. The film is a crime comedy that uses irony to comment on the corruption and greed of Chinese society. The use of irony in the film has been studied by scholars, who have identified various types of irony, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony.

2.3 Summary

Overall, the use of irony in literature and film has been the subject of extensive research both in China and abroad. Scholars have identified various types of irony, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony, each of which has its own unique characteristics and uses. Despite the vast amount of research that has been conducted on this topic, there are still deficiencies in our understanding of the use of irony in language. Therefore, it is necessary to propose new research that explores the use of irony in a more comprehensive and nuanced manner.