Situational Irony in the Garden: Chapter 3 of Brave New World

"...A little boy of about seven and a little girl who might have been a year older, were playing, very gravely and with all the focused attention of scientists intent on a labour of discovery, a rudimentary sexual game. 'Charming, charming!' the D.H.C. repeated sentimentally" (31).

This entire scene provides a prime example of situational irony, from the actions and demeanor of the children to the words of the Director. The most obvious ironic situation would be the fact that these young children are engrossed in a "sexual game." Although this would be considered a disturbing issue in our society, the game is normal for children to play at young ages in this modern society. Also, the focus of the children seems ironic. Young children rarely focus with the intent of scientists on anything, yet these two played the game with grave focus. The fact that the young children played a sexual game with such intent is quite shocking to the reader, but the adults in the garden look on with acceptance. The Director even describes the two as "charming," as if what they are doing is delightful and a sign of normal development. This scene further illustrates the stark contrasts between our society and the modern society in the novel which is the purpose of this situational irony.