Persuasion

by Jane Austen

Persuasion: Oxymorons 2 key examples

Definition of Oxymoron

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal a deeper or hidden truth... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to... read full definition
Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—The Lady's Angry Pleasure:

In Chapter 13 , the narrator uses an oxymoron to describe Lady Russell's thoughts when Anne mentions Captain Wentworth's romantic attachment to Louisa Musgrove:

Lady Russell had only to listen composedly, and wish them happy, but internally her heart revelled in angry pleasure, in pleased contempt, that the man who at twenty-three had seemed to understand somewhat of the value of an Anne Elliot, should, eight years afterwards, be charmed by a Louisa Musgrove. 

Chapter 23
Explanation and Analysis—Happiness of Misery:

In Chapter 23, the narrator uses an oxymoron to describe the intensity of Anne's emotional state as she reflects on her conversation with Mrs. Smith and her romantic feelings for Captain Wentworth, feeling a wave of emotions as she thinks about the entire situation:

She was deep in the happiness of such misery, or the misery of such happiness, instantly. 

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