Anaxandra's Identity
Throughout the story, dramatic irony develops from the fact that Anaxandra is not Helen of Troy but she is mistaken for her by Agamemnon and others due to their uncanny similarity. The readers are aware that Anaxandra is not the actual Helen but the characters in the book are not. This dramatic irony produces tension and suspense as mistaken identification becomes a driving force in the plot, leading to the events of the Trojan War and impacting the fate of the persons involved.
Anaxandra's Love for Menelaus
The irony of fate occurs when Anaxandra who resembles Helen of Troy develops romantic affection for Menelaus, Helen's husband. Anaxandra is drawn to Menelaus and falls in love with him despite the tangled dynamics and the fact that he is already married to the woman she is sometimes confused for. The juxtaposition of Anaxandra's connection to Menelaus adds a depth of complexity and emotional upheaval to the plot.
Paris's Romantic Ideals
Paris' idealized notion of love creates dramatic irony. Paris is convinced that his feelings for Helen are genuine and reasonable, motivated by true passion and a desire for a meaningful connection. The readers are aware, however, that Paris' deeds result in the devastation of Troy and the loss of innumerable lives. This dramatic irony emphasizes the difference between Paris' idealistic goals and the disastrous repercussions of his choices.
Anaxandra's Modesty
Anaxandra's modesty and self-perception show verbal irony. Despite being complimented for her beauty and constantly compared to Helen of Troy, Anaxandra does not consider herself attractive. She believes she is plain and lacks the attraction that others see in her. This disparity between how others perceive her and her humble self-image generates a sense of verbal irony. Anaxandra's modesty is ironic in that she possesses a beauty that people adore and envy yet she refuses to accept it herself.
