A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy

A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy Irony

Yorick's Generosity

It is often ironic that Yorick speaks of being generous when he is in fact being stingy with his money and judgmental towards others; this is clearly seen in the incident involving the sous and the French beggars.

Virtue

It is ironic that Yorick compliments the fille de chambre on her virtue without knowing whether or not she truly is virtuous. Furthermore, it is ironic that he compliments her but then on the occasion of their second meeting acknowledges that he is having impure thoughts about her.

The Passport

It is ironic that Yorick receives his passport, which is supposed to be a marker of his official identity, only because the Count de B**** thinks that Yorick is someone else.

Yorick's Needs

It is ironic that Yorick is somewhat reluctant to give to the needy, such as the monk, but must rely on the charity of others in order to obtain the passport that he needs to stay in France.