Situational irony: Parenting
It is ironic that Horton initially did not want to be left with the eggs and Mayzie had to manipulate him into looking after them. But by the end, Horton does not want to be separated from them.
Dramatic irony: Circus Act
The irony of poachers hunting Horton and using him as a circus act is telling of the animal cruelty and abuse that occurs in real life. Horton escaping back to the wild is highlighting that animals need to be allowed to roam freely and not be trapped.
Dramatic irony: Horton the Elephant
It is ironic that such a large and potentially dangerous creature that is Horton, is in reality such a sweet and caring individual. Instead of inciting fear, he spreads love and warmth to all those he meets.
Dramatic irony: Mayzie as a Mother
Mayzie as a parent is ironic because she does not want to do any of the parenting and longs to fly away. Once the eggs hatch, she is eager to return and start to care for them now that all the hard work is done.
