Antigone - Sophocles

Overview

"Antigone" is a tragedy by Sophocles, part of the Theban Plays.
It explores themes like the conflict between individual morality and state laws, and the struggles between personal conviction and social duty.

Antigone: The play's heroine who defies King Creon's order not to bury her brother Polynices.
Creon: The King of Thebes who prioritizes law and order above personal bonds.
Ismene: Antigone’s sister who initially refuses to help her bury Polynices but later tries to share the blame.
Haemon: Creon's son, engaged to Antigone, who eventually kills himself.
Tiresias: The blind prophet who warns Creon of the consequences of his actions.

Conflict with Creon: Antigone is determined to bury her brother Polynices, who was denied a proper burial by Creon.
Antigone's Defiance: Despite the threat of death, Antigone goes ahead with the burial, arguing for divine law over human law.
Creon's Fury: Upon discovering Antigone’s actions, Creon sentences her to death, leading to a series of tragic events.
Haemon's Plea: Haemon attempts to reason with his father Creon, but the confrontation ends in tragedy.
Tiresias’ Warning: Tiresias warns Creon that the gods disapprove of his actions, but Creon initially dismisses him.
Tragic Conclusion: The play ends with the suicides of Antigone, Haemon, and Creon's wife, Eurydice, leading Creon to regret his decisions.

Law and Order vs. Personal Morality: The central conflict between Creon's law and Antigone's moral duty.
Fate and Free Will: Explores the tension between predetermined fate and personal choice.
Pride and Power: Critiques the dangers of pride and absolute power in leadership.

"Antigone" is often viewed as a political critique of power dynamics and a commentary on civil disobedience.
The play's themes are seen as relevant to ongoing discussions about the role of government and the rights of individuals.

"Antigone" has been adapted into various forms, including modern reinterpretations and performances across cultures.

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