The art of contrast WITH PARADOX

This well-known Shakespeare quotation justifies Hamlet's cruel actions because ultimately, they will serve a kinder purpose.

- ROOPA BANERJEE

"I must be cruel, only to be kind."-Hamlet

It's also an excellent example of paradox: a seeming contradiction on the surface, but which, after reflection, says something profound. Paradox feeds on this opposition of extremes, making readers and spectators pause, suffer confusion, and ultimately intensely reflect about the meaning of the words.

Paradox originates from the Greek paradoxon, "contrary to expectation". A paradox is a statement contrary to common sense or traditional wisdom but makes sense when examined more intently. Ancient philosophers such as Zeno of Elea loved to construct paradoxes to challenge logic and provoke discussion. A paradox is effective because it makes the reader pause and reflect.

Literature abounds with the use of this literary device.