Paradox
by Jacob Harris
What the Heck is Paradox?
A paradox is a statement that appears contradictory, but reveals a kind of truth.
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IT IS NOT JUXTAPOSITION
- Juxtaposition places two usually unassociated words or ideas next to each other, but they aren't necessarily contradictory.
- The contrast in jux. calls attention to dissimilar ideas, but that's it
- Paradox uses two CONTRADICTORY ideas to convey insight into a unique idea, not just draw attention to itself
Where Does it Come From?
- Comes from the Latin word Paradoxum (paradoxum in Greek), meaning beyond belief
- Formed by para (beyond) and orthodox (accepted belief)
Just to See if You Were Paying Attention
Paradoxun: Latin or Greek?
Famous Literary Paradoxes/Activity
What truth is each paradox trying to convey?
"All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others."-George Orwell, Animal Farm.
"I must be cruel to be kind."-William Shakespeare, Hamlet.
"The earth that’s nature’s mother is her tomb;
What is her burying grave, that is Rainbow in her womb."-William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet.
“Child is father of the man."-William Wordsworth, “My Heart Leaps Up When I Behold”.