Which of the following quotations is the best example of a
paradox?
(1 point)
“I’ll drain him dry as hay. . . ”
“Lesser than Macbeth, and greater.”
“So well thy words become thee as thy wounds. . . ”
“Lesser than Macbeth, and greater.”
The quotation "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater" is the best example of a paradox.
To determine which of the quotations is the best example of a paradox, we need to first understand what a paradox is. A paradox is a statement that appears to be self-contradictory or illogical, but upon further examination, reveals a deeper meaning or truth.
Let's examine each of the provided quotations and see if any of them fit this definition:
1. "I'll drain him dry as hay..."
This statement does not appear to be a paradox as it is a simple expression of someone intending to exhaust or deplete someone else's resources. It does not contain any contradictory or illogical elements.
2. "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater."
This quotation from the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare is an example of a paradox. It initially seems contradictory to claim that someone is both lesser and greater than Macbeth simultaneously. However, upon deeper analysis, it reveals a deeper meaning. The statement suggests that while the person may hold a lower rank or position than Macbeth, they possess greater moral integrity or virtues.
3. "So well thy words become thee as thy wounds..."
This statement, also from Macbeth, does not appear to be a paradox. It suggests that someone's words are as fitting or appropriate for them as their wounds are. While it involves a comparison between words and wounds, it does not contain any contradictory or illogical elements.
Based on our analysis, the second quotation, "Lesser than Macbeth, and greater," is the best example of a paradox out of the provided options.