Question

What evidence supports the idea that Antigone represents a tragic heroine? Check all that apply.

She is similar to Ismene.
She is cast out from society.
She bravely defends her values.
She loves and cares for her father.
She breaks rules in the name of good.
She sacrifices herself to right a wrong.

Answer 1

Select the ones that apply:

- She is cast out from society — Yes. Creon condemns and isolates her (imprisons/seals her in a tomb), marking her social exile.
- She bravely defends her values — Yes. She openly refuses Creon’s edict to uphold divine/family duties.
- She breaks rules in the name of good — Yes. She knowingly disobeys the state law because she believes higher moral/divine laws demand it.
- She sacrifices herself to right a wrong — Yes. She accepts death rather than abandon her duty to bury Polyneices.

Do not select:

- She is similar to Ismene — No. Antigone is contrasted with Ismene (bold/defiant vs. cautious/compliant).
- She loves and cares for her father — Not really. Her primary loyalty/action in the play is toward her brother and divine law; concern for Oedipus is present but not the main evidence for her status as a tragic heroine.