What are the major themes in Antigone?

Antigone Themes

• Fate and Free Will. A central theme of Antigone is the tension between individual action and fate.
• Rules and Order. Antigone contrasts two types of law and justice: divine or religious law on one hand, and the law of men and states on the other.
• Determination.
• Power.
• Women and Femininity.
• Mortality.

How does Ismene define justice?

Ismene replies, “The law is strong; we must give in to the law, in this thing and in worse. I bet the dead to forgive me, but I am helpless: I must yield to those in authority” She reflects on mortal law, citing her form of justice as following the law for the dead would forgive her anyway.

Why does Ismene attempt to share responsibility for Antigone’s actions?

Ismene attempts to share the responsibility for Antigone’s actions because she does not want to see her sister die. She is the last of her family to be alive and wants to stand by her sister. She doesn’t think she should go down alone and If she dies, she wants to die with her as well.

How does Ismene change throughout the play?

Ismene is emotional rather than passionate, more likely to plead for mercy than demand justice. The last survivor of Oedipus’ house after the death of Antigone, Ismene nonetheless seems to vanish at the end, her identity lost in the culmination of the tragedy.

In what way is Ismene different from Antigone?

The main difference between Antigone ‘s and Ismene ‘s personalities is that Antigone is bold, independent, and according to Ismene, “fiery” (Sophocles 689), while Ismene is timid and submissive. Ismene can be considered submissive because she complied with the civil laws.

How does Ismene change throughout the play Antigone?

In Antigone, Ismene’s fear of challenging Creon and the laws of the state prevent her from sharing in her sister’s bold plan and, ultimately, her fate. In this play, the closest view of the sisters’ relationship, Ismene’s words and actions make clear that she loves her sister greatly, but differs from her greatly, too.

How does Ismene change throughout Antigone?

Ismene chooses the side of reason due to her fear of death and authority but has a change of heart after seeing Antigone’s bravery. Unfortunately, it’s too late, and Ismene is left alone with Creon at the end of the play, the rest of her family slain by their own hands.

What are the themes of the play Antigone?

Antigone Themes 1 Pride. There is no question that pride, in the context of Antigone (and most of Sophocles ‘ works), is a trait despised by the gods and punished without mercy. 2 Gender: the Position of Women. Antigone’s gender has profound effects on the meaning of her actions. 3 The Threat of Tyranny.

Why is Antigone still relevant today?

Antigone continues to be a subversive and powerful play, and the inspiration for generations of rebels and dissidents. In the 20th century, a version of Antigone rewritten during the Second World War became one of the most powerful texts of resistance against the Nazis.

How do Antigone’s values line up with Creon’s values?

Antigone and her values line up with the first entity in each pair, while Creon and his values line up with the second. Antigone continues to be a subversive and powerful play, and the inspiration for generations of rebels and dissidents.

How does Anouilh characterize Antigone’s hate for Ismene?

Anouilh attributes Antigone’s hate and envy in Ismene’s capacity to figure as an object of desire, as the woman men want. Thus, in attempting to seduce Haemon and become “his woman,” Antigone steals Ismene’s goods—lipstick, rouge, perfume, powder, and frock—in another act of sisterly dismemberment.