Irony
There are many examples of irony that can been seen throughout the short story. In the beginning of the story the narrator describes the room she must live in and the reader becomes aware that the room was most likely used as a nursery. This is very ironic because the woman is most likely suffering from post-partum depression as a result of the birth of her son. This would make one question why she would be locked in a children's nursery without contact of her child. The irony is in the fact that the room the woman must live in, that was once a child's nursery, acts like a prison or mental institution, as she is not allowed to leave the room and the room is mostly bare.
"It is a big, airy room, the whole floor nearly, with windows that look all ways, and air and sunshine galore. It was nursery first and then playroom and gymnasium, I should judge; for the windows are barred for little children, and there are rings and things in the walls" (Stetson 648).
There is also irony in the treatment that is prescribed for the woman. Her husband, John, thinks that leaving her alone in her room and not allowing her to partake in any activities she would like to will make her better. When in reality the treatment ("rest cure") leads to a worsened depression and obsession, and then unfortunately to insanity.