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Oxymorons
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
Paradox Mind Map
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Key Examples in Romeo and Juliet
Act 2, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Friar Laurence's Entrance:
Friar Laurence—a friendly friar who is close to Romeo and ends up marrying him to Juliet—first appears in Act 2, Scene 3. As he walks onto the stage, carrying the weeds and flowers he uses to make potions, he muses on the subject of nature in a soliloquy that features a paradox:
I must upfill this osier cage of ours
With baleful weeds and precious-juicèd flowers.
The Earth that’s nature’s mother is her tomb;
What is her burying grave, that is her womb;
Related Themes:
Act 3, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis—Juliet's Thankfulness:
In Act 3, Scene 5, Juliet responds sharply when her parents confront her about the prospect of marrying Paris, using paradox to convey her emotions. Capulet has just asked his daughter if she is "not proud" that her parents have arranged for her to be married to "so worthy a gentleman" as Paris, and she responds by saying:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Not proud you have, but thankful that you have.
Proud can I never be of what I hate,
But thankful even for hate that is meant love.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis—Friar Laurence's Scolding:
Friar Laurence uses paradox to scold Juliet's parents after her apparent "death" in Act 4, Scene 5:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Your part in her you could not keep from death,
But heaven keeps his part in eternal life.
The most you sought was her promotion,
For ’twas your heaven she should be advanced;
And weep you now, seeing she is advanced
Above the clouds, as high as heaven itself?
Related Themes:
