Paradoxes

Definition

Paradoxes are statements or propositions that seem self-contradictory or logically unacceptable but may in fact reveal an underlying truth. They often provoke thought and highlight the complexities of language and meaning, making them a powerful tool in literature and rhetoric to engage readers and convey deeper ideas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Longinus identifies paradoxes as one of the five sources of sublimity, emphasizing their role in elevating language and stirring emotions.
2. Paradoxes can create tension within a text, inviting readers to grapple with contradictory ideas and encouraging deeper reflection.
3. In Longinus' view, effective use of paradox enhances the rhetorical power of a work, making it more memorable and impactful.
4. Paradoxes often reflect the complexities of human experience, allowing writers to express ideas that challenge conventional thinking.
5. By presenting seemingly impossible situations or truths, paradoxes can stimulate critical thinking and encourage readers to consider multiple perspectives.

Review Questions

• How do paradoxes function as a source of sublimity in literature according to Longinus?
  • Paradoxes function as a source of sublimity by capturing the complexity of human thought and emotion. They challenge readers to think critically about contradictions and can evoke strong reactions, thereby enhancing the overall impact of the text. Longinus suggests that when used effectively, paradoxes elevate language, making it more powerful and resonant.
• Discuss how paradoxes can influence the emotional response of readers when encountered in literary works.
  • Paradoxes can significantly influence emotional responses by creating a sense of tension and intrigue. When readers confront contradictions, it prompts them to pause and consider the deeper meanings behind the statements. This engagement often leads to heightened emotions, as paradoxes resonate with the complexities of real-life experiences and dilemmas.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using paradoxes in crafting compelling narratives or arguments within classical poetics.
  • The use of paradoxes is highly effective in crafting compelling narratives or arguments because they invite readers to engage with the material on a deeper level. By challenging expectations and presenting contradictions, writers can create memorable moments that linger in the minds of their audience. In classical poetics, this technique not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the work but also encourages critical thinking, as readers explore the layers of meaning embedded within the paradox.

Related terms

Oxymoron: A figure of speech in which two seemingly contradictory terms appear together, such as 'bittersweet' or 'deafening silence.'

Antithesis: A rhetorical device that contrasts two opposing ideas within a balanced structure, highlighting the difference between them.

Irony: A literary device where the intended meaning of words is different from their literal meaning, often leading to humorous or poignant situations.