Paradox in Literature

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| Attempts: 11 | Questions: 15 | Updated: Jan 6, 2026
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1. A paradox forces readers to think about _____.

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About This Quiz
Paradox In Literature - Quiz

Some of the most memorable lines in literature are paradoxes — because they capture complex truths in just a few words. In this quiz, you’ll explore paradox in famous works and quotations from writers like Shakespeare, Dickens, and Orwell. You’ll analyze how opposite ideas can coexist, how paradox reveals theme... see moreand irony, and how authors use contradiction to make readers pause and reflect. By the end, you’ll see why paradox is such a powerful tool in literature.
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2. Match the literary paradox to its interpretation:

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3. “I must be cruel to be kind” (Shakespeare) is a paradox meaning:

Explanation

The paradox suggests that difficult actions can be taken for loving reasons.

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4. “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others” (Orwell) shows:

Explanation

The paradox exposes hypocrisy by contradicting the idea of equality.

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5. Poets often use paradox to express emotional truth through contradiction.

Explanation

Paradox allows writers to express emotional or thematic truths through opposing ideas.

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6. “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” (Dickens) means:

Explanation

The paradox reflects contrasting realities existing at the same time.

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7. “Child is father of the man” (Wordsworth) means:

Explanation

The paradox suggests early life influences who we become.

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8. “Ignorance is strength” (Orwell) is paradoxical because:

Explanation

The paradox critiques how power can rely on lack of knowledge.

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9. “The more I give, the more I have.” (Shakespeare) means:

Explanation

The paradox suggests generosity creates abundance.

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10. “So innocent arch, so cunning simple.” means:

Explanation

The paradox combines innocence and intelligence.

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11. True or False: Paradox in literature often reveals theme or irony.

Explanation

Paradox helps authors highlight themes and ironic contrasts.

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12. “I can’t live with or without you.” expresses:

Explanation

The paradox shows conflicting emotions at the same time.

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13. “He that loses his life shall find it.” (Biblical paradox) means:

Explanation

The paradox suggests meaning is found through sacrifice.

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14. “Freedom through discipline” suggests:

Explanation

The paradox explains how structure can lead to freedom.

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15. Authors use paradox to:

Explanation

Paradox invites readers to rethink assumptions.

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Anneda Nettleton |Bachelor’s in Middle Grade Education |
K–12 Expert
Anneda N. is an experienced instructional designer and educator with over 22 years in K–12 education. She specializes in standards-aligned quizzes, curriculum development, literacy programs, and academic writing. Holds a Bachelor’s in Middle Grades Education and a Rank 1 Reading & Writing Specialist credential.
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A paradox forces readers to think about _____.
Match the literary paradox to its interpretation:
“I must be cruel to be kind” (Shakespeare) is a paradox meaning:
“All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others”...
Poets often use paradox to express emotional truth through...
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” (Dickens)...
“Child is father of the man” (Wordsworth) means:
“Ignorance is strength” (Orwell) is paradoxical because:
“The more I give, the more I have.” (Shakespeare) means:
“So innocent arch, so cunning simple.” means:
True or False: Paradox in literature often reveals theme or irony.
“I can’t live with or without you.” expresses:
“He that loses his life shall find it.” (Biblical paradox) means:
“Freedom through discipline” suggests:
Authors use paradox to:
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