What is the irony in "Happy Event" by Nadine Gordimer?

The irony is that, despite the fact that the two women (Lena and Ella) have committed similar acts. They are treated very differently. You would expect that similar crimes would warrant similar punishment, but that doesn't happen. Situational irony.

To understand the irony in "Happy Event" by Nadine Gordimer, we first need to analyze the story itself. "Happy Event" is a short story about an interracial couple, Ann and Mark, living in South Africa during the apartheid era. The story revolves around Ann's pregnancy and their struggle to find the appropriate medical facilities for her delivery.

The irony in "Happy Event" lies in the title itself. The term "happy event" typically refers to the joyous arrival of a newborn baby. However, in the context of this story, the irony arises from the fact that the couple's happiness is overshadowed and greatly affected by the racial discrimination and segregation they face.

One way to identify the irony is by examining the contrasting elements within the story. Ann and Mark's anticipation and excitement about their baby are heavily contrasted with the harsh reality of the apartheid system, which restricts their choices and options for medical care. They are forced to navigate a complex and dehumanizing bureaucracy, facing discrimination and even physical danger due to their interracial relationship.

Additionally, the title "Happy Event" creates a sense of juxtaposition when compared to the overall tone and themes of the story. The reader expects a joyous occasion, but what they encounter is a somber reflection on the detrimental effects of apartheid on human relationships and the denial of basic human rights.

In conclusion, the irony in "Happy Event" lies in the stark contrast between the expected happiness associated with the term "happy event" and the underlying themes of racial discrimination and the hardships faced by the protagonists in a system of apartheid.

Read widely.

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&source=hp&q=irony+in+%22Happy+Event%22+by+Nadine+Gordimer&aq=f&aqi=&oq=&fp=7d15299a959dbb33

Irony:
http://web.cn.edu/kwheeler/lit_terms_I.html
Scroll about 3/4ths of the way down this webpage and read about Irony -- and the different types of irony.

Let us know what you decide.

In one case, the happy event is the birth of a child (followed by its death). In the second case, the happy event is the death of the child followed by a trip to Rome.