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Motifs
Definition of Oxymoron
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal a deeper or hidden truth... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to make a point—particularly to reveal... read full definition
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are intentionally paired in order to... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Pleasing Punishment:
Aegeon uses the oxymoron “pleasing punishment” to describe the act of childbirth, registering at once the pain of maternal labor as well as its rewards:
[...] my spouse;
From whom my absence was not six months old
Before herself—almost at fainting under
The pleasing punishment that women bear—
Had made provision for her following me
And soon and safe arrivèd where I was.
Related Themes:
Act 1, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Trusty Villain:
Antipholus of Syracuse uses the oxymoronic phrase “trusty villain” to describe his personal slave, Dromio of Syracuse. This oxymoron registers the complex relationship between these two characters, as well as the ambiguous nature of the “fool,” a role which the two Dromios fulfill in this play. Antipholus of Syracuse says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+A trusty villain, sir, that very oft
When I am dull with care and melancholy,
Lightens my humor with his merry jests
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Self-Harming Jealousy:
Luciana employs the oxymoron “self-harming jealousy” when counseling her sister against worrying over the attention and affections of her husband.
Unlock with LitCharts A+Self-harming jealousy, fie, beat it hence
