When Bruno presumes that ''heil Hitler'' is another way of wishing someone a pleasant afternoon, what literary element is suggested?
A dramatic irony
B direct characterization
C flashback
D foreshadowing
foreshadowing
The literary element that is suggested in Bruno's presumption that "heil Hitler" is another way of wishing someone a pleasant afternoon is irony.
To understand how irony is involved, let's break it down:
1. Irony: Irony is a literary technique used to express something different or opposite of what is expected. It often involves a discrepancy between appearance and reality or a contrast between expectations and reality.
2. Bruno's presumption: Bruno, being a young boy and unaware of the true meaning behind "heil Hitler," mistakenly assumes that it is a friendly greeting or well-wishing for a pleasant afternoon.
3. Historical context: The phrase "heil Hitler" was commonly associated with Adolf Hitler, who was the dictator of Nazi Germany during World War II. It was used as a salutation to show allegiance and reverence to Hitler and the Nazi regime. Therefore, it carries a highly political and ideological significance.
4. Contrast between expectations and reality: The irony lies in the fact that while Bruno believes he is using the phrase innocently, it actually carries a dark and oppressive connotation. His childlike innocence contrasts sharply with the true meaning and historical context of the phrase.
In conclusion, the literary element suggested in Bruno's presumption is irony, as there is a stark contrast between his innocent belief about "heil Hitler" and its actual significance in history. The irony lies in the unsuspecting innocence of Bruno and the dark reality behind the phrase.