Analyzing Satire in Fiction
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Explaining Situational Irony
What is the best explanation of the situational irony in
this passage?
Both the aunt and the children were conversational in a
limited, persistent way, reminding one of the attentions
of a housefly that refuses to be discouraged. Most of the
aunt's remarks seemed to begin with "Don't," and nearly
all of the children's remarks began with "Why?” The
bachelor said nothing out loud.
-"The Storyteller,"
Saki
O The children are quiet on the train instead of loud.
The aunt is pleasant and funny instead of strict.
O The bachelor rernains silent when he is expected to
respond.
o The aunt expects obedience from the children, but
does not get it.​