Classical Greek Tragedy: Antigone by Sophocles

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on Sophocles' 'Antigone', focusing on characters, themes, and dramatic elements.

Antigone

A tragic play by Sophocles which tells the story of a woman who defies the king's orders to bury her brother.

Sophocles

An ancient Greek playwright renowned for his contributions to drama; author of 'Antigone'.

Creon

The king of Thebes and the antagonist in 'Antigone'; embodies law and order.

Prologue

The introductory part of a play where background information is presented; occurs before the main action.

Eteocles and Polyneices

The two sons of Oedipus who died fighting each other, leading to the central conflict in 'Antigone'.

Ismene

Antigone's sister who is torn between loyalty to her family and obedience to the law.

Chorus

A group of characters in Greek tragedy who comment on the action and themes of the play.

Tragic flaw (Hamartia)

A character trait that leads to the protagonist's downfall; seen in various characters in 'Antigone'.

Hubris

Excessive pride or defiance of the gods, often leading to a character's ruin; a key theme in 'Antigone'.

Themes of Law and Morality

A central theme in 'Antigone' where personal beliefs conflict with state laws.

Teiresias

The blind prophet in 'Antigone' who warns Creon of the consequences of his actions.

Fate

A recurring theme in Greek tragedies, suggesting that individuals are bound by destiny, often leading to unavoidable outcomes.

Stoning to death

The punishment decreed by Creon for those who defy his law regarding the burial of Polyneices.

Anarchy

Disorder due to the absence or non-recognition of authority; feared by Creon in maintaining state control.

Piety

A virtue that denotes respect for the gods and the laws of the dead; championed by Antigone in the play.