Paradox
The Once and Future King
by T. H. White

The Once and Future King: 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
Book 1, Chapter 22
Explanation and Analysis—The King is Dead?:

After the King Uther, Arthur's father, dies in Chapter 22 of The Sword in the Stone, many of the castlefolk say over and over again, "The King is dead; long live the King." This is a stock phrase that has been used in countries with monarchies for centuries at the time of a ruler's death. It is meant to communicate how monarchies support a smooth transfer of power, and that the new king deserves the people's full support immediately upon the death of the previous king.