Sebastian's Plan
The central example of dramatic irony in the play is Sebastian's plan to trick his father into believing he is going to marry Moll, thereby convincing Sir Alexander to accept Mary Fitz-Allard as Sebastian's true bride. While the audience knows the plan, Sir Alexander is bewildered and disgusted to learn of Sebastian's interest in Moll. Sebastian's plan is ultimately successful after he decides to include Moll in his scheme.
Sir Alexander's Plan
At different points throughout the play, Sir Alexander attempts to publicly humiliate Moll in order to put an end to Sebastian's interest in her. One of the ways Sir Alexander tries to "catch" Moll is through leaving jewels and diamonds strewn about his house, certain that Moll will try to steal them. Moll remarks on the jewels but makes no attempt to take them, instead dedicating her time in Sir Alexander's house to helping Sebastian and Mary.
Laxton's Pursuit
When Laxton decides to judge Moll's moral character based on her dress, he assumes she is willing to have sex for money and invites her for a rendezvous. The audience is well aware of Moll's moral stance, and she reveals this truth to Laxton by meeting him with a sword. Her well-intentioned "trick" contributes to the humiliation of Laxton at the hands of a woman and emphasizes the play's interest in reputation and assumption.
The Final Scene
At the end of the play, a servant in Sir Alexander's house announces that Sebastian is entering with his new bride. While Sebastian comes into the house holding Moll's hand, the audience knows that Sebastian's true bride is Mary, who is revealed moments later. When Sir Alexander finally realizes that the marriage to Moll was a ruse, he apologizes to Mary and her father and vows never again to judge someone based on public opinion.
