Antigone Lecture Review

This set of flashcards covers critical analysis of Sophocles' Antigone, including character motivations, literary devices, and key thematic conflicts.

Why is the conflict in the play considered external?

Because there is tension between Antigone and Crean over the death of Polynéeces.

What is the nature of the conflict between the two sisters?

Antigone wants to bury her brother by force while Ismene does not want to get involved and go against the rule.

How does Antigone's personality differ from Ismene's?

Antigone is loyal to her brother polynieces and brave enough to confront the men of society, while Ismene is a coward, unloyal to her brother, and scared of being killed.

Why does the Chorogus believe that polynieces is an enemy?

He rebelled against his native city and made an army to kill his brother, Etoecies, leading the Chorogus to believe he is cursed by Zeus, the King of Gods.

How does Sophocles use irony in the prologue?

Sophocles uses irony when the Chorus says "the beautiful morning of victory," despite the fact that the King of Thebes was killed along with his brother.

In what ways does Creon display hubris in his speech to the Chorus?

He believes his authority and judgment are superior to everyone else's, including divine law, and insists that loyalty to the state is the highest value.

How does the Chorus indirectly warn Creon about his behavior?

They respond carefully and respectfully with a hesitant tone and subtle comments, suggesting Creon should think wisely and exercise caution.

What does the Ode in Scene 1 represent regarding humanity's abilities?

It celebrates humanity's achievements and power over nature, such as sailing, farming, language, and government, but warns that humans cannot escape death.

According to the Ode in Scene 1, what are the human representations for each side of the conflict?

Creon represents human law and political power, while Antigone represents divine law and moral duty.

Identify four literary devices mentioned in the notes.

1. Hubris (Creon's pride), 2. Catharsis (pity for Polynieces), 3. Personification ("Bad luck fell to me"), and 4. Tone (Creon's judgmental and furious tone).

Why does Creon believe obedience to the state is more important than family loyalty?

He believes the survival of the state depends on obedience to law and that putting family above the law would create chaos and weaken his authority as ruler.

How does Ismene's character change in Scene 2?

She changes from being fearful and unwilling to break the law to offering to share responsibility for burying polynices out of sincere love and guilt.

Does Geon's decision to change his mind in Scene 5 show wisdom or fear?

It shows fear more than wisdom, as he becomes afraid of consequences after Tiresias warns that the gods will punish him.

What is the irony regarding the blind prophet Tiresias and Geon?

It is ironic because Tiresias is physically blind but sees the truth, while Geon has physical sight but is blind to the truth until the prophet tells him.

What does Sophocles suggest is the greatest danger to a leader in Scene 5?

The inability to listen, as this flaw allows ignorance and pride to grow and prevents the leader from considering other perspectives.

How does Geon's realization of the truth in Scene 5 create catharsis for readers?

It creates pity as the audience sees him finally understand his consequences and fear by showing how a person's flaw leads to their downfall.

How does Antigone view her punishment as a symbolic "wedding to Death"?

Instead of marrying Haemon, she is taken to a chamber where she will die, making her transition into death rather than the traditional transition into adulthood through marriage.

How does Antigone's lament create catharsis for the readers?

It evokes pity for her unjust suffering and fear because her fate demonstrates how quickly dignity and life can be taken away due to pride.

What does ODE 2 represent?

The idea that fate and divine laws shape human lives, particularly for the cursed family of Oedipus, and that suffering passes between generations.

What does ODE 4 represent?

The fact that Antigone's punishment is not unique, but part of a long pattern of suffering for noble people.

In what four ways are Antigone and Geon similar characters?

They both refuse to listen, refuse to back down, speak with certainty, and value principles over personal safety.

Is Haemon motivated by love for Antigone or concern for Thebes?

He is motivated by both, as he loves Antigone and believes a ruler should have virtues, fairness, and wisdom for the benefit of Thebes.

How does the scene between Creon and Haemon explore generational conflict?

Creon is rigid and believes authority should never be questioned (the father's view), while Haemon is open-minded and argues a leader should listen to others (the son's view).

What does ODE 3 represent?

The overwhelming power of love as a force that can conquer people, influence decisions, and create conflicts within families.

How does Scene 2 explore masculinity through Crean's authority?

Crean feels personally threatened by Antigone because she is a woman defying his authority; for him, leadership is tied to control and appearing strong/masculine.

What are five early signs that Creon may become a tragic hero?

1. He possesses authority and high state as King, 2. He has a clear hamartia, 3. He refuses to listen, 4. His anger becomes personal rather than rational, 5. His obsession with power leads to his downfall.

Why does Tiresias accuse Creon of causing pollution in Thebes?

Because Creon ignored the divine laws.