Antigone

The story of Antigone begins with the death of Antigone's two brothers. One of her brothers being loyal leads to his legitimate burial, but her other brother, a radical is forbidden to be buried. Antigone believes it is her duty to bury her brother even if it will cost her death.

Her sister, Ismene in attempt to fight Antigone's decision claims that being women they should obey the laws placed upon them by men who are stronger and know better.

When Antigone tells her sister that she will bury their brother with or without her help, Ismene says she will keep her secret a secret, but Antigone declines her offer telling her to proclaim it to the world, because the gods would approve which are the people that matter most. This suggestion is important because throughout the play the quarrel between men and women is constantly in the background.

Creon, the ruler of the Thebes is Antigone's uncle, and future father-in-law, since Antigone is suppose to marry Creon's son. In the beginning of the story, upon finding out about the burial against his wishes he is enraged when it is suggested that the god's might have had something to do with it because criminals are never honored by the gods.

When Creon finds out a woman was responsible for the act, and that she didn't deny a thing nor show fear he is appauled. He speaks with Antigone who denies she commited any crimes or injustice, because these laws were made by a man and not the gods. She then goes on to denounce Creon by saying she would rather die than live in misery by putting up with his laws and regulations.

Creon says "Don't forget: The mind that is most rigid Stumbles soonest"(lines 473-4) and for that, Anitgone is condemned to death