Question

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 aunts remarks seemed to begin with \dont,\ and nearly all of the childrens remarks began with \why?\ the bachelor said nothing out loud. - \the storyteller,\ saki what is the best explanation of the situational irony in this passage? the children are quiet on the train instead of loud the aunt is pleasant and funny instead of strict the bachelor remains silent when he is expected to respond the aunt expects obedience from the children, but does not get it.

Explanation:

Situational irony occurs when there is a contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. In this passage, the aunt’s remarks starting with “Don’t” imply she expects the children to be obedient. However, the children’s remarks starting with “Why?” show they are not following her commands (not being obedient). This is a contrast between her expectation (obedience) and the reality (disobedience).

Answer:

The aunt expects obedience from the children, but does not get it.