Measure for Measure

by William Shakespeare

Measure for Measure: Paradox 1 key example

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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
Act 1, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Too Much Liberty:

After being arrested on the orders of Angelo, Claudio uses a paradox to explain his dire predicament to his friend Lucio: 

LUCIO
Why, how now, Claudio? Whence comes this 
restraint?

CLAUDIO
From too much liberty, my Lucio, liberty.
As surfeit is the father of much fast, 
So every scope by the immoderate use 
Turns to restraint.