“Addison uses irony as a stylistic device.” Explain. 

Answer

“Addison uses irony as a stylistic device.” Explain. 

Joseph Addison (1672–1719) was a great English essayist. He wrote in “The Spectator” (1711) with Richard Steele (1672–1729). Addison taught using gentle humour and soft irony. He did not hurt or insult. Instead, he used wit to correct social faults. It was polite, careful, and full of sense. He made people laugh and think at the same time. His irony was never harsh or rude. Let us discuss his style. 

Irony in the Role of the Spectator: Addison’s narrator claims to stay outside life. He observes people and their habits. But in truth, he knows them very well. He uses irony to show this quiet involvement. He says in “The Spectator’s Account of Himself,”

“Thus I live in the world rather as a Spectator of mankind…”

This line sounds humble. But it hides a deep idea. The speaker watches and judges. He writes about all groups with quiet humour. He pretends to be neutral. But his observations carry gentle criticism. This is the irony. He is both outside and inside society. His silent position gives him power. 

Irony in Imagined Roles: Addison claims that he imagines many lives. He does not say he understands them fully. But he writes about all of them. This method is polite but ironic. In “The Spectator’s Account of Himself,” he writes,

“I have made myself a speculative statesman, soldier, merchant, and artisan…”

He pretends to guess what others feel. He takes their views kindly. But he also sees their faults. This is light irony. He makes their errors seem small and common. The style is soft and wise. He never attacks. Instead, he presents faults as natural. His tone keeps the reader calm and thinking.

Irony in Religious Practice: Addison shows respect for true religion. However, some people only pretend to have faith. He hides this truth in simple words. In Sir Roger at Church, he writes,

“Sunday clears

Unlock this study guide now

BuySubscribe