Ringo's irony
Ringo grows up side by side with Bayard without the prejudice of race between them two. As they grow up though and get socially influenced the difference between them becomes apparent. They were always competitive with each other, but at one point, seeing the railroad of Hawkhurst to be precise, their competition becomes more triggered by their difference. Ringo and Bayard are the same age, but growing up, Ringo's intellectual advancement is apparent; he is smarter and more capable than Bayard. Unfortunately, Ringo is not able to prosper with his intellect because of the obvious racially-caused hatred of the time.
Drusilla's irony
Drusilla's irony stems from the pressure of what is expected of women at that time. She takes on a manly appearance, wearing manly clothes, having short hair and wanting to fight in the war just like men. Her wish comes true and she fights side by side with Colonel Sartoris. At the end, her bravery and what she went through are all dismissed and the only thing that's important is that she spent the nights sleeping next to Colonel Sartoris; there is no implication of romantic connection between them two. Drusilla's mother and the other ladies do not think so because what else could be on Drusilla's mind surrounded by the stench and horror of war other than romance, never mind the knowledge that death could be lurking at any corner.
