Read this excerpt from Book 19 of The Odyssey and answer the question
How does the dialogue between Penelope and the beggar best demonstrate irony?
The beggar has described Penelope in flattering tones, however, if she had recognized that the beggar was Odyseus, by her words
she would ironically imply that she is happy to be praised by her husband
Both the beggar and Penelope describe one another in glowing terms but do not make a point of using physical descriptions, yet it
is ironic that Penelope would have recognized Odysseus if his looks had not been transformed by Athena
While the conditions of their meeting as strangers would ordinarily cause each to be cautious, their words show a courtesy toward
one another implying that they ironically covet their reputations above beauty
The dialogue begins with a common exchange between a host and a guest however, the conversation soon becomes an ironic
opportunity for the husband and wife to share their common purpose in living lives of unity and fidelity