Previous
Motifs
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—Good and Bad:
Paradoxically, Bolingbroke argues that it is precisely the “goodness” of Thomas Mowbray, the Duke of York, as an aristocrat of high birth that makes his “bad” act of allegedly killing the Duke of Gloucester so unforgivable. Speaking before King Richard II and the other assembled members of the royal court, Bolingbroke launches his accusation against Mowbray:
Thou art a traitor and a miscreant,
Too good to be so and too bad to live,
Since the more fair and crystal is the sky,
The uglier seem the clouds that in it fly.
Related Themes:
Act 1, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—Bites But Lanceth Not:
Bolingbroke paradoxically claims that positive thoughts can serve as a liability by heightening the pain of negative experiences. In his final words before leaving England as an exile, he resists the attempts by his father, John of Gaunt, to lighten his mood, stating:
Unlock with LitCharts A+O no, the apprehension of the good
Gives but the greater feeling to the worse.
Fell sorrow’s tooth doth never rankle more
Than when he bites but lanceth not the sore.
Act 3, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Wounds by Flattery:
King Richard II paradoxically suggests that flattering but false words are more wounding than open hostility. When his loyal ally, the Duke of Aumerle, urges him to remain optimistic in the face of Henry Bolingbroke’s rebellion, the King lashes out at him, stating:
Unlock with LitCharts A+He does me double wrong
That wounds me with the flatteries of his tongue.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Care Is Loss of Care:
In his speech to Bolingbroke upon being asked to surrender the throne, King Richard II paradoxically claims that his “care” (or concern) is precisely the “loss of care” that has resulted from his imminent dethroning. In his final moments as King, Richard states:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Your cares set up do not pluck my cares down.
My care is loss of care, by old care done;
Your care is gain of care, by new care won.
The cares I give I have, though given away.
They ’tend the crown, yet still with me they stay.
Related Themes:
