Paradox: GCSE English Definition

What is a paradox?

In GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language, a paradox is a thought-provoking statement, paragraph, or entire piece of writing that combines two ideas in a way that seems irrational or self-contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.

Why do writers use paradoxes?

In literature, writers often use paradoxes in order to illustrate a central message of their text or present a fresh new perspective on an idea. Some writers use paradoxes to create humour, while others present paradoxical statements to offer a critique of society. 

Examples of paradox

“Fair is foul and foul is fair” — The witches, Macbeth, Act 1, Scene 1 

This famous paradox from the first scene establishes for the audience that appearances can be deceptive, foreshadowing the theme of appearance versus reality in the play. 

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others” — Animal Farm by George Orwell 

This famous quotation from Animal Farm is a paradox because it should be impossible for some individuals to be “more equal” than others. Orwell uses a paradox here to criticise the hypocrisy of governments and leaders (here represented by the pigs) who promote equality while allowing themselves rights and privileges that others are forbidden. 

Revision resources to ace your exams

For study guides on how to analyse paradoxes in literary texts, and how best to include paradox in your own creative writing, check out our detailed revision notes. All our notes are course-specific, so everything you’ll need to ace your exams is in one place!

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes 

GCSE English Language Revision Notes

For a comprehensive glossary covering all the best literary techniques you could ever need,  check out our list of top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.