Research Paper On Antigone

In Poetics by Aristotle, he defines the main components of a tragedy. It is as an “imitation of an action that is serious and also, as having magnitude,” and contains “incidents arousing pity and fear.” Antigone follows these core necessities and is classified as a Greek tragedy. The plot of Antigone follows Antigone’s inner-battle between loyalty to her family versus loyalty to her country. After learning both her brothers died in battle, she explains to Ismene, “It’s our brothers: Kreon, honoring one and casting the other out” (26-27). Antigone must choose between following the edict and living or honoring her brother and dying. Following one of the conditions of a Greek tragedy, Antigone faces a serious decision between life and death. Antigone’s difficult situation also arouses pity and fear. In her final speech before her death, Antigone

No wedding song has been sung for this bride” (968-970). Antigone is mourning the life she didn’t get to live. She is leaving with almost no family, no funeral, and no children. She is pledging herself to a courageous cause, but she is sacrificing her life in the process. The audience pities her because actions are admirable, but she is caught in a tough situation out of her control. By Aristotle’s definition, Antigone is a tragedy comprised of a serious topic and a buildup of a catharsis. Every Greek tragedy must have a tragic hero: a character who is neither good nor bad, but is the cause of their own downfall. In Antigone, Kreon is the tragic hero. Kreon’s downfall stems from his own extreme devotion and pride. Kreon starts in an initially powerful position as the new king. He demonstrates his desire to be a strong leader in his official speech: “The state is safety. When she is steady, then we can