Antigone: cultural context

Cultural Context of Sophoclean Theatrics

Theatrical performances during the time of Sophocles were part of significant religious festivals in Athens, most notably the Dionysia, dedicated to the god Dionysus.
Plays were performed in an amphitheatre with a large chorus. ‘Antigone’, like all Greek tragedies, would have utilised a chorus to articulate the play’s themes and highlight the moral dimensions of the narrative.
The masks used by the actors were more than just a disguise, they represented the archetypal nature of the characters and allowed for swift changes of identity.

Sophocles and Athenian Democracy

Sophocles wrote ‘Antigone’ during the height of the Golden Age of Athens when there was a move towards democracy.
The issues brought forth in ‘Antigone’ reflect both the struggles and the ideals of democratic governance, particularly the rule of law against individualistic heroism.
The character Creon embodies absolutism and the dangers of tyranny, while Antigone signifies individual conscience and the virtue of sticking to one’s principles, even in the face of death.

Religion and Morality in ‘Antigone’

Greek gods were deeply incorporated into the daily lives of the ancient Greeks, giving ‘Antigone’ a strong moral and religious framework.
The conflict between divine law and human law resonated with the Athenian audience, who would have understood the importance of proper burial rites and respecting the dead.
The role of prophecy, with Teiresias being the mouthpiece of the gods, is a reflection of the belief in fate and the inherent limits of the human realms.

Status of Women in Greek Society

The character Antigone defied not only the state but also gender roles of ancient Greek society. As a woman, she was expected to be submissive, but she became a challenger and a protagonist.
However, Antigone’s ultimate death also reflects the society’s view that women stepping out of their “expected roles” could lead to disorder and chaos.

It’s crucial to reflect on these contextual factors as they can significantly inform your reading and interpretation of ‘Antigone’. Understanding Sophocles’ and his contemporaries’ world can help to broaden your grasp of the play’s themes and their significance in that era.