5
QuizMultiple Choice

Part 2: Literary Devices in The Importance of Being Earnest — Quiz

Question 5 • English Language Arts 12

Which line from Act I of The Importance of Being Earnest is a paradox?

Answer
A
“It is awfully hard work doing nothing.”
B
“You are not quite old enough to do that.”
C
“I have something very particular to say to Mr. Worthing.”
D
“It may be necessary to do something desperate.”

Explanation

A paradox is a statement that seems contradictory but expresses a recognizable truth. “It is awfully hard work doing nothing” combines “hard work” with “doing nothing,” which appear to conflict and make the line paradoxical. The other lines do not contain the same kind of apparent contradiction.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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