Intertextual Irony: Between Relevance Theory and Umberto Eco

Abstract This article discusses the advantages deriving from interaction of pragmatics and literary theory in study irony. The first section argues that current (mis)understanding irony is result a centuries-long intertwinement between rhetorical philosophical discourses. paper then shows how echoic irony, devised by Dan Sperber Deirdre Wilson within broader framework their Relevance Theory, provides scholars with different potentially useful notion its functions. third compares to Umberto Eco’s definition Intertextual defined, identified as fourth type addition verbal, situational or dramatic ironies. Literary examples implications intertextual are also analysed. In final expressions diffuse sense rejection contemporary culture briefly discussed. By applying an innovative methodology figurative language, this aims introduce concept reader-oriented tool for analysis, well emphasize role can play refinement vocabulary criticism theory.