Antigone's Themes and Character Perspectives

The transcript is a prologue from the play 'Antigone' where Antigone and Ismene discuss the aftermath of their brothers' deaths. Creon, the king, has decreed that one brother, Polyneices, should not be buried. Antigone is determined to defy this decree, while Ismene is fearful of the consequences. The dialogue explores themes of family loyalty, defiance, and the conflict between human and divine law.

What is the setting of the prologue in Antigone?

• A temple in Thebes

• A battlefield near Thebes

• The palace of Creon, King of Thebes

• A forest outside Thebes

Who are the two main characters introduced in the prologue?

• Jocasta and Laius

• Polyneices and Eteocles

• Antigone and Ismene

• Creon and Oedipus

What new decree has King Creon announced?

• A ban on mourning for Polyneices

• A festival in honor of the gods

• A peace treaty with Argos

• A new tax on Thebes' citizens

What is the consequence of defying Creon's decree?

• Loss of citizenship

• Stoning to death in the public square

• Imprisonment for life

• Exile from Thebes

What does Antigone plan to do in response to Creon's decree?

• Leave Thebes

• Bury her brother Polyneices

• Seek help from other cities

• Appeal to the gods

Why is Ismene hesitant to join Antigone in her plan?

• She fears the wrath of the gods

• She believes in Creon's authority

• She is afraid of the punishment

• She thinks Polyneices was wrong

What does Ismene believe about the role of women in society?

• Women should lead and make decisions

• Women should support men in their decisions

• Women should not meddle in men's affairs

• Women should be equal to men in all things

What does Ismene think about meddling in dangerous affairs?

• It is a noble act

• It is a dangerous business

• It is a sign of bravery

• It is a necessary evil

What does Ismene think about the strength of Creon's law?

• It is temporary and will change

• It is weak and can be ignored

• It is strong and must be obeyed

• It is unjust and should be defied

What does Antigone believe about the laws of the gods?

• They are less important than human laws

• They are eternal and must be obeyed

• They are outdated and irrelevant

• They are only for the priests to follow