Paradox
Definition:
A statement whose two parts seem contradictory yet make sense with more thought; it attracts the reader’s or the listener’s attention and gives emphasis. It is also used to illustrate an opinion or statement contrary to accepted traditional ideas. A paradox is often used to make a reader think over an idea in an innovative way.
Macbeth Example:
“Fair is Foul, and Foul is fair.” -The Witches, Act 1, scene 1
Function:
The three witches foreshadow what will happen in the future; in other words, they predict the evil that will corrupt Macbeth’s judgement. All that is good is turning to bad and all bad delights them. This statement contradicts itself because fair is the opposite of foul. This introduces the theme of equivocation because it conceals the truth of what Macbeth is going to do in order to become king.
Other Examples:
“I must be cruel to be kind.” - Hamlet, Act 3, scene 4
Function:
Hamlet is talking about his mother, and how he intends to kill Claudius to avenge his father’s death. This act of Hamlet will be a tragedy for his mother, who is married to Claudius. Hamlet does not want his mother to be the beloved of his father’s murderer any longer, and so he thinks that the murder will be good for his mother.
Non-original Mnemonic:
Original: To become clean, one must get dirty.
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