Antigone: Costume design (including hair and make-up)

Understanding Costume Design in Antigone

Principles of Costume Design in Antigone

Costumes in Sophocles’ Antigone would have originally been created from a natural colour palette, keeping in theme with traditional Greek theatre.
The function of attire in this play is beyond aesthetic interest; it strongly translates the personality, status and evolution of the characters.

Leading Characters and Their Costumes

Antigone, as a royal princess, would be clad in affluent yet modest garb, perhaps showing signs of mourning her slain brother Polynices.
Creon, as the newly appointed king, would likely be dressed in the traditional attire of a Greek ruler, which might include a chiton (tunic), himation (cloak), and crown.
Ismene, Antigone’s sister, might have costume elements similar to Antigone but in less severe tones, representing her subservient and less assertive nature.

Use of Costume to Reflect Character Traits

The use of bridal attire for Antigone before her death signifies her being wedded to death.
Creon’s royal and regal garb signifies his authority and power but could also lend a sense of his narcissistic and despotic rule.

The Importance of Hair and Makeup

Greek hairstyles for women, like that of Antigone and Ismene, often included braids and updos, reflecting their social status.
Makeup wasn’t a norm in traditional Greek theatre, but these characters might have subtly enhanced features to highlight their emotional state.

Costumes and Staging Effects

The depiction of Antigone’s death would likely involve a change in her costume to signify her impending doom.
Atmospheric elements and lighting would aid these costume transitions to create a dramatic impact on the audience.

Examining costume design in ‘Antigone’ provides a visual framework and enhances the understanding of character development and societal conventions of the era. Embrace the costume choices as an essential element of the play’s dramaturgy, illuminating aspects of character, plot, and theme.