Greek Theatre


 ANTIGONE: I will be reading an extract by Ismene.

The play is ANTIGONE and was written by Sophocles

Written in 441 BC. 

Synopsis:

Antigone – Daughter of Odeipus

Creon – king of Thebes

Polyneices – traitor of the city but brother of Antigone.

Issues:

Errors of the past

Creon embodies the same faults of Oedipus

Antigone resembles her father is some ways

My monologue:

Antigone and Ismene are arguing about there brother and his burial and what Creon will do to them. When he finds out that they want to bury him.

Politics – Sophocles was appointed one of ten generals to led a military expedition against Samos. 

The play didn’t contain any no political propaganda.

On the whole, the play betrays no patriotic interests whatsoever. Rather than become sidetracked with the issues of the time, Antigone remains completely focused on the characters and themes within the play.

Tragedy!!!

The late 6th century BCE

It was during the 5th century that Athens became the most powerful city of Greece.

Athens became an imperial power herself

Conquering other Greek cities; eventually, though, the Athenians stretched their power too far and collapsed.

Sparta came along and conquered Athens in 404.

Greek legend attributed to Thespis the invention of acting.

Actors and chorus performed wearing elaborate costumes and masks.

With three actors playing multiple roles by changing their masks backstage a complete story could be acted out.

The costumes worn by the actors and chorus members were often the most striking element.