Themes in Sophocles’ play

Antigone

There are five major themes present in Sophocles’ tragic play Antigone

1. Man’s Law versus God’s Law

OR

Which law is more important to obey?

2. Anarchy versus Citizenry

The emphasis is

on the individual

person

The emphasis is

on the collective

group

What should have more value, yourself or others?

3. Gender: The Position of Women in Society

Are women truly equal in today’s society? What stereotypes still exist, if

any?

4. The Threat of Tyranny/The Right to RuleTyranny is defined as one person

having absolute power that uses that power unjustly or unfairly.

Is King Creon a tyrant? Or is he just protecting the collective interest of the Theban citizens?

Do you think we should worry about the threat of tyranny in today’s society?

5. The dangers of excessive hubris

(Pride)

Would Antigone benefit from humility? What about Creon? What about some of the people you know? What about yourself?

As we continue to read Sophocles’ play, keep these universal themes in mind.

In Scene Two, especially, these difficult questions are raised numerous times.