Situational Irony:
* White Fang's upbringing: He is raised in the wild by a wolf mother, learning brutal survival skills. Yet, he is eventually captured and sold into a harsh life of servitude, ironically becoming the very creature he was taught to fear and fight against.
* The irony of "civilization": The very civilization that aims to tame and domesticate White Fang is ultimately responsible for his suffering. He is subjected to cruelty and violence, even by those who claim to be his masters.
* The changing nature of White Fang's masters: The cruel and abusive Grey Beaver is eventually replaced by Weedon Scott, who represents kindness and understanding. However, the change is not entirely for the better, as Scott, despite his good intentions, inadvertently exposes White Fang to the dangers of the outside world, leading to his ultimate downfall.
* The irony of love: White Fang's love for Weedon Scott, a powerful bond that defies his wild nature, is ultimately tested and broken by the very person he trusts.
* The power of fear: While fear is used to control and subdue White Fang, it also ultimately leads to his downfall, as he becomes consumed by his fear of the man who ultimately betrays him.
Dramatic Irony:
* White Fang's initial mistrust of humans: The reader knows from the beginning that White Fang, despite his brutal upbringing, is capable of love and loyalty. However, his initial distrust of humans creates tension and dramatic irony, as we anticipate the moment he will overcome his primal fears.
* The fate of White Fang's mother: The reader knows that White Fang's mother will eventually be killed by the "gods of the wild," but White Fang remains unaware, making her death all the more tragic and ironic.
* The hidden dangers of civilization: White Fang is initially drawn to civilization, believing it offers safety and security. However, the reader knows the harsh realities of his new life, creating a sense of anticipation and dread.
* The ultimate betrayal: The reader understands that White Fang's trust in Weedon Scott will be betrayed, creating a sense of foreshadowing and suspense as the story unfolds.
The use of irony in White Fang adds depth and complexity to the novel. It allows London to explore themes of nature vs. nurture, the costs of civilization, and the enduring power of instinct. The juxtaposition of expectations and outcomes creates a sense of tragic beauty and ultimately compels the reader to contemplate the nature of good and evil, freedom and restraint.