1. The Contrast Between Conrad's Belief and Reality:
* Irony: Conrad's fervent belief in the power of his "god" Sredni Vashtar, a stoat, is contrasted with the reality that the stoat is just an animal.
* Example: He "worships" the stoat, offering it "sacrifices" of food and treats, even though it's just a pet. This devotion is a stark contrast to the practical realities of his life, where he is treated cruelly by his aunt and cousin.
* Humor: The irony lies in the absurdity of Conrad's belief in a pet god and the seriousness with which he invests it. This is especially humorous because it highlights the desperation of his situation.
2. The Unexpected End:
* Irony: The story ends with the death of Conrad's aunt and the disappearance of his cousin. While the aunt's death is accidental, it's strongly suggested that Sredni Vashtar, the stoat, is responsible for the disappearance of the cousin.
* Example: Conrad's joyful declaration of "Sredni Vashtar has heard me!" after the events reinforces the ironic twist. This is because the audience understands that Conrad is likely delusional about the stoat's "power."
* Humor: The humor comes from the stark contrast between the innocent, child-like faith of Conrad and the dark implication of the stoat's actions. This final twist adds a layer of unsettling humor, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of unease.
These two examples demonstrate how Saki uses irony to create humor in "Sredni Vashtar." He juxtaposes the serious, even sinister, themes of the story with the absurd and naive beliefs of the main character, creating a darkly humorous narrative.