Which of these is a common purpose of using irony in literature?

Using irony in literature often serves the purpose of encouraging readers to question expectations. Irony presents a situation in which the words or actions mean something different—or even the opposite—than what is typically understood or anticipated. This can lead readers to critically analyze the text and reflect on underlying meanings, societal norms, or character motivations.

By exposing the discrepancies between reality and expectation, irony prompts readers to think more deeply about the text's themes and the characters' experiences. For example, a character might assert something with confidence only for the reader to grasp through irony that the reality is quite different, thereby revealing flaws in the character's reasoning or societal assumptions. This engagement with irony fosters a richer understanding of the text and often leads to more profound insights into human nature and societal constructs.