The Portrait of a Lady
by Henry James

The Portrait of a Lady: 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
Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—Too Much Liberty:

In an example of paradox, Mrs. Touchett warns Isabel at the beginning of the novel about taking “too much liberty”:

“You were very right to tell me then,” said Isabel. “I don’t understand it, but I’m very glad to know it.”

“I shall always tell you,” her aunt answered, “whenever I see you taking what seems to me too much liberty.”

“Pray do; but I don’t say I shall always think your remonstrance just.”

“Very likely not. You’re too fond of your own ways.”