Monday, August 2, 2010

SOPHOCLES and ANTIGONE

SOPHOCLES

Sophocles was born in 495 B.C. He was one of the great playwrights in the ancient period. His father name was Sophilus, a man of wealth and excellent character. He gave Sophocles his literary accomplishments. At the age of sixteen he was chosen to lead a boys choir at a celebration of the victory of Salamis. In his dramatic career, Sophocles competed in a tragic contest against Aeschylus and won first place. He continued to display tragedies and drama. Sophocles wrote about 108 plays during his time. He won around 18 to 24 first place prizes and numerous of second place prize spots. It is said his plays were distinguished by close connection, the correctness of their sentiments, and the beauty of their lives. His language was sometimes harsh but for the most part, he was a man of wealth and genius.
In Sophocles Antigone, everyone is held responsible for the decisions they made. All of the characters suffer because of Creons' belief. Antigone buries Polynices knowing she would be put to death if caught. Antigone was determined to give her brother a proper burial regardless of the law so she took matters in her own hands. Antigone broke the law of Creon by fulfilling the law of the Gods. When the time came around for Antigone to be put to death, Tiresias tells Creon that the Gods agreed with Antigone. Creon went to bury Polynices but before he made it back to Antigone, she had already hung herself. Haemon ( son of Creon) and Antigones' lover, embraced and wept over Antigone body. When Creon seen his son he tried to comfort him but Haemon, attacked Creon and then kills himself. Truly this was a fascinating play. Eventhough the women back then was not regarded high at all, Antigone showed us a different side. Antigone died a true hero.
http://www.theatrehistory.com/ancient/sophocles001.html

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