Irony Duchesses Quote by Anthony Trollope
““There was a little praise given, no doubt in irony, to the duchesses who served Mr Melmotte. There was a little praise, given of course in irony, to Mr Melmotte’s Board of English Directors. There was a good deal of praise, but still alloyed by a dash of irony, bestowed on the idea of civilizing Mexico by joining it to California. Praise was bestowed upon England for taking up the matter, but accompanied by some ironical touches at her incapacity to believe thoroughly in any enterprise not originated by herself. Then there was something said of the universality of Mr Melmotte’s commercial genius, but whether said in a spirit prophetic of ultimate failure and disgrace, or of heavenborn success and unequalled commercial splendour, no one could tell.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Way We Live Now, 1875
Irony highlights how praise can mask criticism, especially regarding imperialist and commercial ambitions.
In simple terms: Irony shows hidden criticism in praise.
Key Takeaway
Read between the lines.
Themes
irony
colonialism
capitalism
criticism
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
satirical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- literary study
- political discourse
- media critique
Key Concepts
imperial critique
satire
social commentary
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the praise really reveal?
- How does irony affect perception?
A Different Perspective
Irony may be missed by some readers.
