The Irony of Yder
Yder is a wicked knight who appears at the beginning of the poem. He initially offends Queen Guinevere, but he ends up insulting Erec for his youth. While Guinevere would have allowed the personal insult, she insists that Erec defend his own honor by hunting down Yder and defeating him formally. In the end it is Yder insolence which ends his career.
The Irony of Erec's Devotion
As a man characterized by devotion, Erec becomes conflicted in the early years of his marriage. He loves Enide so much that he spends most of his time with her, but the negatively reflects upon his career. When she cries for his dishonor, she reminds Erec of the necessity of balance. He must win her approval by demonstrating his ability to devote himself to his career, as well as to her.
The Irony of Enide's Disobedience
Erec directs Enide to remain silent during their adventures in order to allow him the utmost focus and care. When she warns him several times of approaching enemies, saving his life, he becomes enraged each time. He punishes her with his displeasure, but her very disobedience is the reason he's alive to be upset. Eventually Erec recognizes the wisdom of Enide's opposition and thanks her for her sacrificial love. She was willing to be unjustly punished in order to save him from unknown dangers.
The Irony of Enide's Dowry
When Enide first marries Erec, she is a pauper dressed in rags. Recognizing her father's poverty, Erec will not accept a dowry, but this adversely affects Enide's self-esteem for she desires to be a beautiful bride for him. He carries her right into King Arthur's court where he asks the noblemen to judge whether or not she is a lady. While this may have been humiliating for Enide, she proves her worth. Queen Guinevere herself steps in and lavishes many gifts on the girl, providing her with more than a sufficient dowry.
The Irony of Royalty
Thanks to her love and devotion to Erec, Enide helps him earn fame and wealth. By the time they reach Nantes, their reputations have preceded them. The people of Nantes are so honored to meet them that they appoint Erec and Enide their new king and queen. Enide is finally honored the way Erec envisioned her when they first met. He always thought her secretly capable of being queen, but now the external world has proved him right.
