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  • Essay / Antigone by Sophocles - 1323

    AntigoneThis tragedy by Sophocles seemed to touch many readers. This tragedy has caused many people, today and in ancient times, to rethink their life's purpose. This story also intended to raise many questions. One question I will discuss is: What means more to you, social acceptance or staying true to your beliefs? This classic tragedy I'm referring to is called Antigone. This fascinating story touches on many social and religious topics. I will discuss the tragic turmoil of Antigone, her surrounding family, and the social and religious dilemma that Antigone faces and which 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, Eteokle and Polynieces, are in rivalry for power. These two were the heirs to the rule of Thebes after the death of their father Oedipus. After fighting and killing each other for power, Creon, who is Oedipus' brother, was about to become king of Thebes. Because Polynieces attacked Eteokles, Creon ordered that Eteokles be buried properly and that Polynieces not receive proper funeral ceremonies. The play begins as Antigone and Ismene discover that Creon does not want Polyniece buried. Antigone plans to give her brother a proper burial. Ismene obeys Creon and does not want to go against what the king has ordered. Kreon's messenger finds the buried body and hesitantly reports the news to Kreon. Soon after, his sentinel captures Antigone burying her brother and takes her to the king to be punished. Antigone faces the king and denies nothing of what he is accused of...... middle of paper ......ne, Creon has only made things worse for himself. He was responsible not only for the murder of Antigone, but also for the deaths of his son who loved Antigone and his wife, Eurydice, who loved his son. Kreon lost everything he loved and was a lonely and powerless ruler. The only people left in Kreon were his guards and they had no sympathy for him or his family. Today, many historical figures are celebrated for fighting for what they believe in. These people who have not obeyed the rules imposed by society are considered heroes and are respected for what they have done for people in society long after their death. Antigone should be considered a heroine for what she represents. In ancient times, there were not many female leaders. Antigone was certainly one who should be considered a revolutionary figure for women in ancient times and in today's society..