Maleficent and Diaval (Situational Irony)
Maleficent is emotionally and physically damaged when Stefan cuts off her wings, robbing her of her freedom and powers of flight. Soon after, Maleficent "saves" the raven Diaval by turning him into a man, limiting his freedom and ability to fly. Throughout their relationship, Maleficent commands Diaval to do her bidding and transforms him into flightless creatures without warning. Ironically, Maleficent inflicts small betrayals on Diaval that parallel Stefan's betrayal of her, though she and Diaval remain close friends.
"True Love's Kiss" (Verbal Irony)
Under the guise of mercy, when Maleficent curses Aurora, she stipulates that the princess can be awoken by "true love's kiss. She chooses to invoke "true love's kiss" to privately shame Stefan for his betrayal. Though Maleficent says that "true love's kiss" is a loophole to save Aurora, Maleficent means to make her curse unbreakable, as neither she nor Stefan believes in true love.
Maleficent's Identity (Dramatic Irony)
Maleficent and Aurora develop a close relationship, as Aurora considers Maleficent her "fairy godmother." For most of her life, Aurora is unaware that Maleficent, who she thinks is her protector, actually placed a terrible curse on her. Maleficent struggles to tell Aurora the truth, knowing her curse will likely end their relationship. This use of dramatic irony creates a sense of tension as the audience understands the reality of Maleficent's curse will inevitably be revealed.
Parenthood (Situational Irony)
King Stefan is Aurora's biological father, and the three fairies are tasked with caring for Aurora, posing as her "aunties." By contrast, Maleficent proclaims that she hates children and curses Aurora. However, it is Maleficent who treats Aurora with the love and understanding expected of a parent or guardian. By contrast, the three fairies ignore and resent Aurora. King Stefan is so consumed with his hatred toward Maleficent that he is barely moved by his reunion with Aurora or her awakening from the curse. Ironically, Maleficent, unrelated to Aurora and her ostensible enemy, acts as a true "parent" for Aurora.
