Introduction
Irony is a crucial element in literature, often utilized by authors to depict an opposite situation to what would be expected. The Ransom of the Red Chief by O. Henry is a story that revolves around the kidnapping of a rich Alabamian man’s son for ransom. The author expensively applies irony throughout the story to communicate his themes. Situational irony and ironic wordplay are two common techniques applied in this story.
Situational Irony
The reversal of behavior between the kidnappers and Ebenezer presents situational irony. As Bill and Sam kidnap the boy, one would expect that Ebenezer would rush to pay the ransom to have his son back. However, the father responds calmly by making a counter-proposition to the kidnappers saying they should pay him “to take him off your hands” (Henry 24). The irony is further exemplified when the two men end up paying the father to take his son back (Henry 25). These instances reveal how the roles of the father and the kidnappers are displayed in a humorously ironic play.
Ironic Word Play
Verbal irony is used to reveal how characters say things that mean the opposite of their character. First, the author names the boy’s father Ebenezer and writes that he is honorable and tight (Henry 12). These two aspects contradict the father’s evident interactions throughout the play. Second, Sam describes Johnny as a “little he ewe lamb,” although he is tired of the boy’s unruly behavior (Henry 25). The words used by the characters introduce humor through sarcastic twists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Ransom of the Red Chief by O’ Henry is a humorous narration of an interaction between a wealthy man and kidnappers who sought ransom. The author uses situational and verbal irony to twist the situations, driving forward his themes. The father’s name and behavior are against the expected parental conduct. In addition, the kidnappers use words that add sarcasm to the story.
Work Cited
Henry, O. The Ransom of Red Chief. The Library of America, 2011.