Irony of Mark's Inner Ring
From the beginning of the novel, Mark's greatest desire is to be part of an elite inner ring, which would give him security and satisfaction. He exerts much effort in this endeavor, but when he finally becomes part of the highest inner ring of the N.I.C.E., he realizes that it isn't worth it at all. Inclusion in the inner ring is a façade; being on the inside is no better than being on the outside, especially when the head of the organization is a disembodied head possessed by the devil.
Irony of Merlin and the N.I.C.E.
The N.I.C.E. acquire the particular well and tract of land in Bragdon Wood specifically in order to resurrect the ancient sorcerer Merlin and convert him to their cause. Merlin, however, does no such thing; once resurrected, he escapes their clutches and joins the organization at St. Anne's, ironically making the who endeavor detrimental to the N.I.C.E. rather than beneficial.
Irony of Jane
Jane has the special ability to see visions that reflect actual events - she sees the execution of Alcasan, for instance, and the resurrection of Merlin. Ironically, although this ability is greatly valued by Ransom's organization, she has no interest in their conflict, proving to be difficult to recruit to the cause for which her ability specifically prepares her.
Irony of Mr. Bultitude
Mr. Bultitude is a fully grown bear whose name is ironic in itself. The irony is deeper, however; he is a simple-minded bear under the care of Ransom at St. Anne's, and portions of the text are dedicated to explaining the low functionality of his dim brain. He is captured by the N.I.C.E., but he escapes and kills the Head (Alcasan) of their organization. This irony highlights the fact that the N.I.C.E. is a supremely intellectual, theoretical organization, but its leader was killed by a brute, unthinking beast.
Irony of Scientific Materialism
The N.I.C.E. embodies the extremities of the philosophy of scientific materialism, ridiculing all appeals to higher powers and proclaiming the ultimate end of life to be scientific advancement of humanity. They deny the existence of objective truths and claim all value judgments are subjective. Ironically, despite their materialist worldview, by rejecting God they inherently accept the Devil, and Satan comes to possess the head of their organization. The organization of extreme scientific materialism is headed by a demon.
