Paradox

Caleb Williams

by William Godwin

Caleb Williams: Paradox 1 key example

Definition of Paradox

A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Volume 1, Chapter 12
Explanation and Analysis—Cold, Furious Benevolence:

In Volume 1, Chapter 12, Mr. Collins articulates the paradox that first led Caleb to inquire about Mr. Falkland's past. Collins's description of Falkland's strange behavior foreshadows Caleb's terrible discovery in Volume 2:

'...Every body respects him, for his benevolence is unalterable; but there is a stately coldness and reserve in his behaviour, which makes it difficult for those about him to regard him with the familiarity of affection. These symptoms are uninterrupted, except at certain times when his sufferings become intolerable, and he displays the marks of a furious insanity. At those times his language is fearful and mysterious, and he seems to figure to himself by turns every sort of persecution and alarm which may be supposed to attend upon an accusation of murder....’