Antithesis
Definition:
An antithesis is used when the writer employs two sentences of contrasting meanings in close proximity to one another. Whether they are words or phrases of the same sentence, an antithesis is used to create a stark contrast using two divergent elements that come together to create one uniform whole. An antithesis plays on the complementary property of opposites to create one vivid picture. The purpose of using an antithesis in literature is to create a balance between opposite qualities and lend a greater insight into the subject.
Example:
When Neil Armstrong walked on the moon it might have been one small step for a man but it was one giant leap for mankind.
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12 comments posted"His words were in perfect keeping with his looks, and his looks were in perfect keeping with his words." -narrative of the life of fredrick douglass
i believe that it is chiasmus
What is the difference between a antithesis and a paradox, since both are similar and I have a hard time differentiating them...please help!
"He had neither strayed from his balcony nor opened the newspaper since Independence, but in spite of this fact, or maybe because of it, his opinions were always highly esteemed."
--The parts "in spite of this fact" and "because of it" are totally contradictory, though this passage acknowledges the possibilities of both. Does that mean it is an antithesis? Or how else can I describe it?
His opinions were always highly esteemed is the main idea being conveyed. In spite of this fact or maybe because of it, although set up a contrast for the reason he is highly esteemed, is not an antithesis. Antithesis uses two completely different opposites to convey a "larger" meaning.
E.G. Revenge is a trait of the weak while forgiveness is a quality of the divine.
This example illustrates that forgiveness is a quality that is much harder to attain by situating the contrast of the two qualities next to each other, also known as an antithesis.
"…in spite of this fact, or maybe because of it, his opinions were always highly esteemed."
thats a paradox.
And her barbaric howl of delight...
Can this be an example where antithesis is used??
If not.. What is used in this line??
Thanks
contradiction
that's a pun
Thats a paradox since barbaric and delight are contradicting themselves.
IF i were you i would go with imagery and a little bit of archetypal literary terms. Imagery because it goes with your senses of hearing. Plus war cries date back to the epic of Gilgamesh.
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