Antigone

Antigone is a tragedy by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, written around 441 BCE. The play is part of Sophocles’ Theban Trilogy, though it stands alone as a powerful and enduring work of literature. Set in the aftermath of a civil war in Thebes, the story revolves around Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, and her defiance of King Creon’s edict. After the death of her brothers Eteocles and Polynices, who killed each other in battle, Creon ascends to the throne and decrees that Eteocles will be honored with a proper burial, while Polynices, deemed a traitor, will be left unburied and exposed. Antigone, driven by loyalty to her family and divine law, defies Creon’s orders and buries her brother, believing that the laws of the gods supersede the laws of man. Antigone’s act of rebellion leads to her arrest and a dramatic confrontation with Creon, who is unyielding in his authority. The conflict between individual conscience and state law, as well as themes of pride, duty, and the consequences of absolute power, are central to the play. Tragedy ensues as the stubbornness of both Antigone and Creon leads to a series of devastating events, culminating in the deaths of Antigone, her fiancé Haemon (Creon’s son), and Creon’s wife Eurydice. Through its complex characters and moral dilemmas, “”Antigone”” explores timeless themes of justice, loyalty, and the human condition, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and readers throughout the centuries. —- ISBN: 9798333243881