Compare and Contrast Antigone and Ismene

Antigone and Ismene, the two sisters at the center of Sophocles' tragedy "Antigone," share a complicated relationship that is fraught with conflict and contrasts. While both sisters are bound by their familial ties and a shared sense of duty, they differ greatly in their approaches to fulfilling their obligations. This essay will explore the similarities and differences between Antigone and Ismene, focusing on their contrasting personalities, their divergent views on the importance of family and societal expectations, and the consequences of their actions. By examining these aspects, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between these two characters and the broader themes of the play.

Personality Contrasts

Antigone and Ismene possess distinct personalities that shape their actions and decisions throughout the play. Antigone is portrayed as a headstrong and rebellious individual, driven by her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and principles. In contrast, Ismene is more cautious and conventional, prioritizing the preservation of order and stability. This fundamental difference in character is evident in their initial response to their brother Polyneices' death and the subsequent decree of King Creon.

Antigone's audacious nature is evident from the beginning, as she boldly declares her intention to defy Creon's edict and bury her brother's body. She proclaims, "And if I must die for it, what happiness! / A lot of people die for noble causes every day" (Sophocles, 86-87). This dialogue highlights Antigone's defiance and her willingness to sacrifice herself for her beliefs. In contrast, Ismene's response is characterized by caution and fear. She pleads with Antigone to reconsider, asserting, "But we must remember we are women, / and as such, we’re not allowed to fight with men" (Sophocles, 74-75). Ismene's words reveal her reluctance to challenge the established order and her concern for the potential consequences of disobedience.

These divergent personalities contribute to the central conflict between the sisters, as Antigone's determination clashes with Ismene's reluctance to defy authority. However, despite their differences, both sisters are motivated by their sense of familial duty.

Family and Societal Expectations

Antigone and Ismene are united by their shared bloodline and familial responsibilities, but their interpretations of these obligations diverge significantly. Antigone is driven by her unwavering loyalty to her family and her belief in the importance of honoring the dead. She firmly believes in the divine laws that govern familial duty, stating, "I'll bury the brother I love" (Sophocles, 66). Antigone's commitment to familial obligations is unwavering, even in the face of stern warnings and the threat of death.

In contrast, Ismene's interpretation of familial responsibilities is influenced by societal expectations and the fear of retribution. She argues that their actions would be futile since they lack the power to challenge Creon's authority. Ismene states, "We must obey the ones who stand in power, / we must obey them—never in our lives / must we abandon them" (Sophocles, 79-81). Ismene's perspective reflects a more pragmatic approach, prioritizing self-preservation and conforming to the expectations of authority figures.

The differences in their views on familial and societal expectations contribute to the tragic consequences that unfold in the play. Antigone's unwavering commitment to her family leads to her tragic demise, while Ismene's obedience and conformity ultimately leave her burdened with guilt and regret.

Consequences of Actions

The contrasting actions of Antigone and Ismene have profound consequences, underscoring the divergent paths they choose to follow. Antigone's defiance and determination to bury her brother's body lead to her arrest and subsequent death. Despite knowing the consequences, she remains resolute in her decision, stating, "But if I have to die for it, / I say that this crime is holy" (Sophocles, 91-92). Antigone's actions are driven by a profound sense of moral duty, and she is willing to pay the ultimate price for her convictions.

On the other hand, Ismene, plagued by guilt and regret, realizes the magnitude of her inaction and attempts to share the blame with Antigone. However, she is rebuffed by her sister, who states, "You chose to live, and I chose death— / and that's the way it worked out" (Sophocles, 105-106). Ismene's decision to prioritize obedience and self-preservation results in a lifetime of remorse and guilt.

The contrasting consequences of their actions serve as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of individual agency and the potential outcomes of following societal expectations blindly. Antigone's unwavering commitment to her principles leads to her tragic demise, but her actions also serve as a catalyst for change and reflection within the society depicted in the play.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the characters of Antigone and Ismene in Sophocles' play "Antigone" illustrate contrasting personalities and approaches to fulfilling their familial and societal obligations. Antigone's rebellious and determined nature clashes with Ismene's cautious and conventional outlook. While Antigone is driven by a sense of moral duty and a belief in the importance of honoring the dead, Ismene prioritizes obedience and self-preservation. These differences in character and perspective ultimately lead to divergent paths and consequences for the sisters. The play serves as a reminder of the complexities of familial and societal expectations and the potential outcomes of challenging or conforming to established norms. Through the contrasting characters of Antigone and Ismene, Sophocles explores themes of duty, morality, and the consequences of individual agency.

Bibliography

Sophocles. "Antigone." Translated by Robert Bagg and James Scully, Oxford University Press, 2002.