Aryan Sewsankar
Professor Brady
EGL 102
2/17
Moral Law V. Written Law: PUB #1, Question 2
In “Antigone” a tragedy by the ancient Greek author Sophocles, he casts his characters by giving them roles that each are incredibly influential to the plot, and development of the play. Ismene, Haemon, and Teiresias all contribute to the plot’s development by highlighting the clash between individual morality and state authority. The interactions among Ismene, Haemon, and Teiresias also contribute to the plot because their roles each introduce conflicts that deepen the narrative. These character dynamics enrich, and thicken the plot, since each of these characters offer a different type of wisdom, and advocate for moderation and flexibility. The characters’ differing views on authority and morality create tension and propel the plot forward, which ultimately leads to a tragic ending.
Haemon embodies the voice of reason and youth perspective. He tries to persuade his Father to reconsider the harsh punishment he put in place on the woman he loves and is engaged to Antigone. Haemon advocates for flexibility and empathy, suggesting to his Father that he should be open for change. Haemon made the effort to get across the dangers and consequences of alienating the people of Thebes, the town he rules, and more importantly those who are closest to him. “Do not believe that you alone can be right. The man who thinks that, the man who maintains that only he has the power to reason correctly, the gift to speak, the soul- a man like that, when you know him, turns out empty.” (Haemon, 791-795). This quote demonstrates Haeomon’s understanding of the dangers of absolute power and his suggestion for his Father to listen to him and compromise together.
Teiresias, the blind prophet, brings the wisdom of experience. He warns Creon that the Gods are not pleased with his actions, particularly his refusal to bury his brother Polynices. He also warns him that The Gods are very displeased with his punishments for Antigone because it is a violation based on their beliefs. The warnings Teiresias brings to Creon are very ominous, predicting dire consequences for Creon and his family if he does not put his pride, ego, and power aside to amend his decisions. Through Teiresias, Sophocles suggests that human laws must be in harmony with the laws of The Gods and nature. “All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong and repairs the evil. The only crime is pride.” (Teiresias, 1023-1025). These words of wisdom from Teiresias truly highlight his main role in this play, which is to guide one in the right direction, and correct their mistakes before it is too late. After observing Teiresias and his role, it started to remind me of the Holiday classic “A Christmas Carol”. The main character Ebenezer Scrooge encounters the ghost of his late business partner who reminded me of Teiresias because they were both summoned to confront the main characters with truths about their lives and the potential consequences of their actions, urging them to change their ways before it is too late.
Ismene, Antigone’s sister, embodies the voice of caution and fear. She completely counters her sister's much more radical stance. Her reluctance to join Antigone in burying their brother Polynices is caused from the fear of the consequences she may face from her brother Creon. Ismene represents a majority of society that, although may disagree with certain laws or other influential decisions, feels too powerless or fearful to resist. “We must remember that by birth we’re women, and as such, we shouldn’t fight with men. Since those who rule are much more powerful, we must obey in this and in events which bring us even harsher agonies.” (Ismene, 61-65). This quote reflects Ismene’s belief in the limitations they face as women, and their fear of the consequences they may face from Creon.
The characters of Ismene, Haemon, and Teiresias each play vital roles in “Antigone”, contributing to the development of the plot and its themes. Through their interactions with Antigone, and Creon, these characters embody the importance of balance between authority and compassion, and the consequences of ignoring wisdom and moral duty. This ultimately leads to the tragic ending.
Works Cited
Sophocles. Antigone. Translated by E.F. Watling, Penguin Books, 1974.