Something is ironic when it does or states the opposite of what is expected. Choose the two sentences in this excerpt that include irony.
In 1922, Howard Carter, an Englishman who studies ancient Egypt, made a stunning find in the Valley of the Kings. He found the final resting place of Pharaoh Tutankhamun (now commonly called Tut). The tomb was named KV 62 since it was the 62nd recorded tomb found in the Valley. Although Tut is the best-known Egyptian king today, the same was not true during his time. He was just a minor ruler, and one who ruled for only a few years.
The two sentences that include irony are:
1. “Although Tut is the best-known Egyptian king today, the same was not true during his time.”
2. “He was just a minor ruler, and one who ruled for only a few years.”
Explanation: The irony in the first sentence lies in the contrast between Tutankhamun’s current fame and his lack of recognition during his reign. In the second sentence, it’s ironic that someone who is now considered so significant was actually labeled a “minor ruler” in his own time, showing how perceptions can change dramatically over time.