What is the denotative meaning of fault lines in this excerpt? lines that are drawn when placing blame areas of defense in times of war long cracks in the surface of the earth breaks in modern american society

long cracks in the surface of the earth

The denotative meaning of a word or phrase is the dictionary definition. The dictionary defines fault lines as long cracks in the surface of the earth. They usually occur along the edge of the earth's plates. The connotative meaning of a word is it's inferred meaning. Many times it is created through metaphorical or symbolic meaning. The rest of the definitions are all connotative and help to convey the idea that there is a defining line or major disconnect between things.

dramatic irony occurs when the reader/audience knows more about a character's situation than the character does. the one main effect is that it gives the reader a sense of superiority, or detached superiority. the reader not only seemingly discovers what is revealed, but feels superior for doing so.