THE USE OF PARADOX IN PROSE: AN EXPLORATION OF CONTRADICTION AS A LITERARY DEVICE

Аннотация

The paper is devoted to the intriguing realm of paradox in prose, investigating its role as a powerful and captivating literary device. Paradox, characterized by the simultaneous existence of contradictory elements, challenges readers' conventional understanding and invites deeper contemplation. Through a comprehensive examination of renowned literary works and critical analysis, various functions and effects of paradox in prose will be outlined. How paradox can be employed at different narrative levels, such as character development, plot construction, and thematic exploration is a truly intriguing issue. By examining key examples from classic and contemporary literature, including authors such as Fyodor Dostoevsky, Franz Kafka, Shakespeare, Herman Melville etc. the article demonstrates how paradox enriches storytelling by creating tension, ambiguity, and cognitive dissonance. KEYWORDS Fyodor Dostoevsky, Franz Kafka, Shakespeare, Herman Melville etc. the article demonstrates how paradox enriches storytelling by creating tension, ambiguity, and cognitive dissonance.