Antigone vocab

Tragedy

A work that tells the story of a character's fall from high status.

Tragic Hero

A character with five traits: (1) comes from nobility, (2) downfall caused by a tragic flaw (often pride), (3) experiences a reversal of fortune (high to low status), (4) suffers a downfall, and (5) recognizes their mistake (epiphany), leading to catharsis.

Tragic Flaw

Also known as hamartia; a weakness or shortcoming that causes the tragic hero's fall.

Catharsis

The release of upsetting emotions in the audience; a cleansing.

Hubris

Overweening pride, arrogance, or excessive confidence.

Turning Point

A crucial moment when the fate of the tragic hero is sealed and events move toward an unhappy ending.

Catastrophe

The final outcome of a tragedy after falling action, where conflicts are resolved with disastrous consequences.

Foil

A character with contrasting qualities to another character.

Ode

A song chanted by the chorus; separates scenes and provides the chorus's response.

Choragus

The spokesperson or leader of the chorus.

Chorus

A group (usually 15 men) representing citizens; reacts to events and comments on the play through odes.

Paean

A hymn of praise to a god (in Antigone, to Dionysos).

Exodos

The final or exit scene.

Motivation

A character's reasons for actions or decisions.

Imagery

Descriptive language that creates mental pictures.

Foreshadowing

Clues that hint at future events in the plot.

Diction

An author's word choice.

Alliteration

Repetition of consonant sounds in nearby words.

Repetition

Reappearance of words, phrases, or structures to reinforce ideas or create intensity.

Metaphor

A direct or implied comparison.

Simile

A comparison using 'like' or 'as.'

Irony

A contrast between what is stated or expected and what actually occurs.

Verbal Irony

Saying the opposite of what is meant.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows something the character does not.

Situational Irony

When what happens is the opposite of what is expected.

Allusion

A reference to a well-known work, person, place, or event.

Argument

Speech that uses reasoning to influence others' thinking.

Verse Drama

A play written mostly or entirely in verse.