Question

review the passage. the paradox is shown in bold.
dumby: she doesnt really love you then?
lord darlington: no, she does not!
dumby: i congratulate you, my dear fellow. in this world there are only two tragedies. one is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it. the last is much the worst; the last is a real tragedy! but i am interested to hear she does not love you. how long could you love a woman who didnt love you, cecil?
from oscar wilde, lady windermeres fan
what is the effect of the paradox on the passage’s meaning or tone?
it underscores the negative consequences of choosing partners who dont reciprocate ones feelings.
it suggests that getting what you want can actually be more troublesome than not getting what you want.
it highlights the contrast between getting what you want and not getting what you want.

Explanation:

A paradox is a statement that seems self - contradictory but may reveal a truth. In the text, the paradox "One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it. The last is much the worst" creates a contrast. It shows that the two situations (not getting and getting what one wants) are being compared. The idea that getting what one wants is worse than not getting it is counter - intuitive (a paradox). This contrast between the two states (getting and not getting) is emphasized by the paradox.

Answer:

It highlights the contrast between getting what you want and not getting what you want.