Antigone by Sophocles

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Antigone

This Sophocles tragedy seemed to touch many readers. This tragedy has made many people in present and antiquity rethink their purpose in life. This story also intended to raise many questions. One question that I will discus is what means more to you, social acceptance or staying true to your beliefs? This classic tragedy that I am referring to is called Antigone. This fascinating story touches many subject of social and religious matter. I will discuss the tragic turmoil of Antigone, her surrounding family, and the social and religious dilemma that Antigone faces that will ultimately decide her fate.

Antigone is the daughter of Oedipus and Jocosta. She also has a sister named Ismene and two brothers named Eteokles and Polynieces. Oedipus is also the son of Jocosta and the brother of the four siblings. The two sons, Eteokles and Polynieces, have been in a rivalry for power. This two were heir to rule Thebes after their father Oedipus died. After fighting and killing each other over power, Kreon, who is the brother of Oedipus, was next to being the king of Thebes. Because Polynieces attacked Eteokles, Kreon ordered that Eteokles be buried properly and Polynieces not to be given a proper burial ceremonies. The play begins as Antigone and Ismene discover the news that Kreon does not want Polynieces to be buried. Antigone plans to give her brother proper burial. Ismene obeys Kreon and wants no part of going against what the king has ordered. Kreon's messenger finds the buried body and hesitantly reports the news to Kreon. Soon after, his sentry captures Antigone in the act of burying her brother and takes her to the King to be punished. Antigone faces the king and does not deny any of what was accused of he...

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...ne, Kreon only made it worse for himself. He was responsible for not only killing Antigone, but he was also responsible for the death of his son who loved Antigone and his Wife, Eurydice, who loved her son. Kreon was lost everything that he loved and was a lonely helpless ruler. The only people Kreon had left are his guards and they did not have sympathy for him or his family.

Today, many historical figures are celebrated for fighting for what they believe in. These people that did not obey the rules that were enforced by society are seen as heroes and are respected for what they have done for people in society long after their death. Antigone should be seen as a heroine for what she stood for. In antiquity, there were not many female leaders. Antigone was certainly one who should be seen as a revolutionary figure for women in antiquity and today's society.

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