Editha

Dramatic irony occurs when the reader knows more than the characters. Dramatic irony manifests in “Editha” in a variety of ways. While George believes Editha is sincere in her love of God and country, readers know that her encouraging him to enlist in the war is motivated by her desire for him to be “a hero” and to do “something to win her” (1). George tells Editha, “I know how sincere you are” (3); readers know, however, that Editha is merely chasing an “ideal.”

Readers also know more than Editha herself. Editha does not foresee the consequences of her actions. As she toys with George, manipulating him with her talk of patriotism and her suggesting she cannot marry a man who will not put his country first, readers understand that her behavior is cruel and self-serving even though she believes herself justified. When Editha tells herself that she is leading him to his decision to enlist to provide him with an opportunity “to perfect himself” (1), readers see that her definition of “perfect” is hers alone. Although Editha imagines there is an objective ideal, readers realize the ideal is shallow. While Editha thinks her actions are harmless, readers may suspect they will lead to disaster.