Which term among the following will be applicable to a situation in which a character initiates a scheme which depends for its success on the ignorance of the person against whom it is directed?

Correct option is B

Explanation:

In literary terms, intrigue refers to a situation in which a character devises a scheme or plan that relies on the ignorance of another character to succeed.

It typically involves deception, secrecy, and manipulation, where one character manipulates or plots against another, and the success of the plan is contingent on the target's lack of knowledge about the scheme.

Intrigue often leads to complex situations or conflicts in a story, where characters are unaware of the larger plot unfolding around them.

Information Booster:

Definition of Intrigue:
In literary theory, intrigue refers to secret or underhanded plotting, especially when it involves a situation where a character’s success depends on the manipulation of another's ignorance.

It can be a form of cunning or trickery, and it often plays a central role in various genres, including thrillers, tragedies, and comedies.

Genres and Context:
Intrigue is most commonly found in dramatic works like plays, especially in Shakespearean tragedies or comedies. It often propels the plot forward and creates tension.

An example can be found in plays like Hamlet or Othello, where manipulation, deception, and intrigue are central to the unfolding of the story.
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Example in Literature:
In The Merchant of Venice by Shakespeare, the character Shylock's schemes rely heavily on the ignorance or misunderstanding of other characters, creating a perfect example of intrigue.

Similarly, many thrillers or detective stories involve intrigue, where characters plot secretly or manipulate situations based on others' ignorance.

Importance of Intrigue:
Intrigue can lead to dramatic tension, surprise twists, and ironic outcomes in literature.

The character behind an intrigue often seeks to outsmart or deceive their target, relying on their ignorance to execute their plans successfully.

Additional Knowledge:

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between two opposing forces, whether internal (inside a character's mind) or external (between characters, groups, or forces).

While intrigue can lead to conflict, conflict itself is not dependent on the ignorance of one of the parties. Instead, conflict is a broader term that refers to any struggle, not necessarily one based on deception.

An ally is a character who supports or assists another character in their efforts.

The concept of an ally is not related to the scheme or deception dependent on ignorance, but rather to mutual assistance or cooperation.

Afoil is a character who contrasts with the protagonist, usually to highlight the traits or actions of the main character.

While a foil may set up contrasts, it does not imply the presence of intrigue or schemes. A foil character might make a protagonist’s scheme more evident but does not directly represent a situation where ignorance plays a role in the success of a plan.