Ismene Interaction In Antigone

The interaction between Antigone and Ismene in the opening scene of the tragedy plays an integral role as the introduction to the conflict. Their dialogue revolves around Creon’s decree that Polyneices is to go unburied for his traitorous act against the state. This matter reflects their role as women, daughters, and sisters in Greek society. Each sister personifies a different perspective on Creon’s edict, both having serious ramifications on the tragedy as a whole. Their conflicting beliefs are best depicted towards the end of their interaction, as both sisters elucidate their differing motivations and core beliefs through dialogue focusing on the love they held for their recently deceased brother.
The manner in which Ismene acts represents a woman living in accordance with the rules governing the behavior and status of women in this period. Ismene posits that, “We must remember that we are two women, / so not to fight with men; / and that since we are subject to stronger power / we must hear these orders, or any that may be worse.”(61-64). Antigone acts in defiance with this sentiment, placing the laws of the divine …show more content…
She follows this with, “Wrong from the start, to chase what cannot be.”(92). These statements make it clear that from the inception of the issue, Ismene viewed rebellion as a step that was not to be taken. The breaking of civil law is an incomprehensible action to Ismene. And as for Antigone, Ismene’s warnings bring out her strong-willed qualities that allow her to make this impossible decision. The final line of this encounter goes to reaffirm the love Ismene holds for her sister, but not without belittling her sister’s decision: “You go / senseless indeed, but loved by those who love you.”(98-99). While the love that Antigone expresses is generally aimed towards her dead brother, Ismene shows a deep affection towards her