" 'He has had other girls, hasn't he?'
Lenina admitted it.
'Of course he does. Trust Henry Foster to be the perfect gentleman.' "
~ Brave New World, page 42
Situational irony is found throughout this chapter. One example is while the Director and the students are observing playtime for the children. When they see two children engaged in the "rudimentary sexual game," unexpectedly, the Director replies with, "Charming, charming!" at these "childish amusements." The irony revealed in this situation is that in our world, this would be disappointing and intolerable to a witnessing adult. Also, the phrase "childish amusements" would be inaccurate today; "erotic play" is supposed to be reserved for adults.
Another example is when Lenina and Fanny discuss the men they are going out with. At hearing Lenina say that she has been having Henry Foster for only four months, Fanny reacts with surprise at this lapse of good character. It parallels the first example by showing the differences in the guidelines and standards of morality between the two worlds. In modern society, monogamy and long-term relationships are encouraged and religiously correct, while solidarity in every aspect of life is morally right in their world.
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