Paradox

Macbeth

by William Shakespeare

Macbeth: Paradox 2 key examples

New! Understand every line of Macbeth.
Read our modern English translation.

Definition of Paradox

A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar Wilde's famous declaration that "Life is... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel of truth or reason. Oscar... read full definition
A paradox is a figure of speech that seems to contradict itself, but which, upon further examination, contains some kernel... read full definition
Act 1, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Fair and Foul:

In Act 1, Scene 1, the witches present a paradox in which they conflate two apparently opposite concepts:

All: Fair is foul and foul is fair

Act 1, scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Fair and Foul:

In Act 1, Scene 1, the witches present a paradox in which they conflate two apparently opposite concepts:

All: Fair is foul and foul is fair

Unlock with LitCharts A+
Explanation and Analysis—Win Us To Our Harm:

In Act 1, Scene 3, Banquo warns Macbeth to be wary of the Weird Sisters' prophecy:

Banquo: And oftentimes, to win us to our harm,
The instruments of darkness tell us truths,
Win us with honest trifles, to betray ’s
In deepest consequence.

Unlock with LitCharts A+