Sophocles' 'Antigone'

Definition

'Antigone' is a tragedy written by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles that explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the conflict between individual conscience and state law. The play centers around Antigone, who defies King Creon’s edict to honor her deceased brother Polyneices with a proper burial, highlighting the clash between familial duty and civic responsibility. The consequences of her actions reveal the complexities of human morality and the consequences of hubris in leadership.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antigone is part of a trilogy, known as the Theban plays, which also includes 'Oedipus Rex' and 'Oedipus at Colonus'.
2. The central conflict arises from Antigone’s determination to give her brother Polyneices a proper burial against Creon’s decree prohibiting it.
3. Creon represents the law and order of the state, while Antigone embodies personal conviction and loyalty to family, highlighting the tension between these two values.
4. The play raises questions about the role of women in society, as Antigone's strong will defies traditional gender roles and expectations.
5. Antigone's ultimate fate serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences that can arise from standing up for one's beliefs in opposition to authority.

Review Questions

• What are the primary themes presented in Sophocles' 'Antigone', and how do they relate to the characters' motivations?
  • The primary themes in 'Antigone' include loyalty, justice, and the struggle between individual conscience versus state law. Antigone's motivation to bury her brother reflects her loyalty to family and divine law, while Creon's insistence on enforcing his edict underscores his belief in civic duty and order. The interplay between these themes drives the conflict in the play, ultimately leading to tragic outcomes for both characters.
• Analyze how Sophocles uses the character of Creon to represent the dangers of hubris within 'Antigone'.
  • Creon's character is emblematic of hubris in 'Antigone', as his excessive pride leads him to prioritize state laws over moral imperatives. His refusal to listen to others, including his own son Haemon and the blind prophet Teiresias, highlights his rigidity and arrogance. This hubris not only alienates those around him but also sets off a chain of events that culminates in personal tragedy, showcasing how such traits can result in devastating consequences.
• Evaluate the significance of civil disobedience as demonstrated by Antigone's actions and its relevance in today's society.
  • Civil disobedience is a crucial theme in 'Antigone', as Antigone’s defiance of Creon’s decree illustrates her commitment to higher moral laws over unjust human laws. This act raises important questions about the individual's role in challenging authority and advocating for justice. In today’s society, Antigone’s actions resonate with ongoing movements for social justice where individuals resist oppressive laws or practices, demonstrating how her struggle remains relevant across time and cultures.

Related terms

Tragedy: A dramatic genre that portrays serious and often somber themes, typically involving a tragic hero who faces inevitable downfall due to a personal flaw or fate.

Hubris: Excessive pride or self-confidence that often leads to a character's downfall, frequently seen in Greek tragedies.

Civil Disobedience: The active refusal to obey certain laws or demands of a government as a peaceful form of protest, which is central to Antigone's character and motivations.