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Motifs
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 1
Explanation and Analysis—Henry's Contradictions:
In The Portrait of Dorian Gray, Lord Henry makes frequent use of duplicitous language and apparent self-contradiction as he socializes with Dorian, Basil, and the rest of London high society. When discussing the power that Dorian’s portrait holds over Basil, Henry makes an oxymoronic quip:
"I am quite sure I shall understand it,” he replied, gazing intently at the little golden, white-feathered disk, “and as for believing things, I can believe anything, provided that it is quite incredible."
