Written by
Sophocles 441BC
1 of 3 Theban plays(written first)
Antigone is related to
Oedipus and Jocasta-parents
Ismene-sister
Creon- uncle
Haemon- engaged to
Creon is related to
Ismene + Antigone- nieces
Jocasta- sister
Hamon- son
Ismene is related to
Oedipus and Jocasta-parents
Antigone-sister
Creon- uncle
Represents a microcosm of an ancient greek woman
Haemon is related to
Creon- father
Antigone- engaged to
Chorus is
Anagnorisis is
A principal character realises the other character’ true aims
Typical layout of a Greek theatre
Open-air, semi-circular structures built into hillsides, with the theatron (seating), orchestra (chorus space) and skene (backdrop building).
Where would Antigone would have been performed in Athens?
In the theatre of Dyonysus in Athens during the City Dyonysia festival
Function of a skene
Backstage are and a backdrop representing the palace. in Antigone- symbolises Creon’s authority as a ruler and visually reinforces the power struggle between Antigone and Creon
Significance of orchestra
Circular performance space where the chorus danced and sang. In Antigone, this allowed the chorus to physically embody the collective voice of Thebes, creating dramatic impact through choreographed movement
How would theatron (seating) have shaped the audience’s experience of Antigone?
The tiered seating meant audiences could see and hear clearly, emphasising the communal experience of tragedy. The positioning reinforces the themes of civic responsibility, as the audience watched Antigone’s defiance unfold as a public spectacle
In what ways did entrances and exists (parodoi) have influenced the staging of Antigone’s confrontation with Creon
Symbolised shifts in power. Antigone entering through the parodos to face Creon heightened dramatic tension, while the chorus entering through the parodoi reinforced their role as intermediates
Parodoi
Exits
Parodos
Entrance
Typical costume features of Greek tragedy
Chitons (longs robes)
Cloaks
Cothurni (Platform shoes)
Antigone’s costume would have been darker, simpler to symbolise mourning, piety and isolation
Creon’s costume
Richly decorated robe or crown, signifying his kingship. The visual status marker reinforced his authority, and made his downfall more powerful, showing the fragility of human power.
Why were masks essential?
Exaggerated facial expressions and allowed actors to play multiple role.
In Antigone they conveyed archetypal emotions (grief, anger, defiance) and ensured clarity for the larger audience
How could masks emphasise the emotional states of Antigone and Ismene in their opening dialogue?
Antigone’s mask might show determined grief, while Ismene’s could show fear or hesitation. The contrast heightened their ideological clash and clarified their roles as defiant and submissive
How might masks influence the physicality and vocal delivery of the actors?
Masks restricted facial expression, so actors relied on stylised gestures and amplified
What was the primary function of the chorus and how is it seen in Antigone?
Provided commentary, moral reflection, background context.
In Antigone they reflected on divine law vs human law, guiding audience’s interpretation of the conflict
How does the chorus in Antigone act as a moral compass or representative of society?
Expresses fear of civil disorder and divine punishment.
They waver in loyalty but ultimately criticise Creon, mirroring the anxieties of Athenian citizens
How might the chorus’ movement and formation in the orchestra create dramatic impact?
Could move in unison to show solidarity or break apart to show division.
Their circular patterns reinforced ritualistic aspects of tragedy and heightened the emotional atmosphere.
Why was choral strophe and antistrophe important in Antigone,
How could a director emphasise this in modern performance?
Created a rhythmic movement and mirrored argument or reflection.
A director today might use lighting, contrasting movement or vocal effects to mark these shifts for modern audiences.
