what is antithesis?
definition
Antithesis is when an author puts together two opposite or contrasting ideas for effect.
example
In literature the purest of young girls, Snow White is portrayed in a story with the wickedest of old women, her step mother and the queen, who is also a witch. This is an example of antithesis.
explanation
By combining these opposite characters in the same story, the author adds emphasis to their characteristics and sets them in opposition to each other. This adds interest for the reader and creates an interesting situation. Two contrasting ideas establishes a conflict which in turn develops the reader's interest.