Paradox
Oliver Twist
by Charles Dickens
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Oliver Twist: 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

Key Examples in Oliver Twist

Chapter 43
Explanation and Analysis—Number One:

Dickens is a fan of word play, and he sometimes plays with idioms and paradoxes to show the intelligence (or unintelligence) of certain characters. For example, in chapter 43, Fagin riffs on two idioms to impress upon his new employee Noah Claypole the importance of looking out for Fagin's best interests:

We have a general number one; that is, you can’t consider yourself as number one without considering me too as the same, and all the other young people.