I don't get what is ironic about this phrase from The Minister's Black Veil:
"How strange that a simple black veil such as any woman might wear on her bonnet, should become such a terrible thing on Mr. Hooper's face" ?
Is it because their all hiding behing black veils?
its because it looks strange on a man and not strange on a women.
thanks
Yes, the phrase from The Minister's Black Veil by Nathaniel Hawthorne is indeed ironic. The irony lies in the contrast between the simplicity of a black veil and the impact it has on Mr. Hooper and the people in the story.
To understand the irony, it's important to recognize the symbolic significance of the black veil. In the story, Mr. Hooper starts wearing the veil without explaining why he does so. The veil serves as a physical and metaphorical barrier between him and the rest of society. It represents the hidden sins and darkness that all individuals carry, but often hide from others.
The irony lies in the fact that the black veil is a common item that any woman could wear on her bonnet. It is a simple accessory that wouldn't typically be considered terrible or alarming. However, when Mr. Hooper wears it, it takes on a much deeper and darker meaning. The veil becomes a source of fear, curiosity, and suspicion among the townspeople. They see it as something ominous and shocking, despite its common appearance.
So, the irony is that a simple black veil, which is typically innocuous, becomes such a powerful symbol when worn by Mr. Hooper. It reveals the hypocrisy of the townspeople, who are also hiding their own sins and faults, yet judge Mr. Hooper for being honest about the hidden darkness within everyone.