Unit Test Part 2 The American Renaissance Answer the question using complete sentences. Total score: ____ of 10 points Refer to
“The Birthmark” by Nathaniel Hawthorne in Journeys in Literature: American Traditions. Respond to the prompt. Authors use paradox to present ideas that, on the surface, seem contradictory. But with deeper analysis, readers figure out that the ideas together make sense. In addition, the intentional pairing of opposing ideas can enhance their meaning or even create new, unexpected meaning. What are some examples of paradox in “The Birthmark”? How does Hawthorne’s use of paradox affect your understanding of the characters and the plot? Use evidence from the text to support your answer. Type your answer here.
A paradox can be seen when a character named Georgiana claims that danger is not a threat to her life.
We can arrive at this answer as follows:
The paradox is a figure of language that presents two opposing ideas simultaneously.
In "The Birthmark" we can see an example of this when Georgiana states that she is willing to do anything to get rid of the birthmark, even if it is a dangerous thing.
She claims the danger is not a threat to her life.
As we know the danger is a threat to life. Affirming that life is not threatened in the presence of danger is a paradox, as it is an idea that contradicts reality.
"The Birthmark" is a story about how a birthmark can cause instability between people and personal problems.
