Answer: In the given passage, the sentence "Linda was overwhelmed with a sense of deafening silence" stands out as an example of an oxymoron.
Explanation: An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms to create a dramatic or ironic effect. In this case, the contradiction lies in the pairing of "deafening" and "silence."
Linda finds herself on the third floor of the library, which is designated for quiet study. Typically, silence is associated with a lack of noise or sound. However, Linda's experience is far from that. Instead of the expected tranquility, she perceives the silence as overwhelming and even deafening. This juxtaposition of contradictory terms emphasizes the impact of the silence on Linda's state of mind.
The phrase "deafening silence" creates a sense of paradox and tension. It conveys the idea that the absence of sound can be so intense and overwhelming that it becomes almost oppressive. Linda's struggle to concentrate in this environment is evident, as she grapples with the conflicting emotions brought about by the unexpected intensity of the silence.
In conclusion, the sentence "Linda was overwhelmed with a sense of deafening silence" in the passage exemplifies an oxymoron by combining contradictory terms to emphasize the overwhelming nature of the silence she experiences.