In the powerful and tragic play “Antigone” by Sophocles, we witness a fierce and determined young woman named Antigone who is determined to bury her brother, Polynices, in defiance of King Creon’s orders. However, her sister Ismene refuses to join her in this act of defiance, pleading their weakness as women and subjects of Creon. This refusal by Ismene to assist her sister in such a crucial moment is a pivotal moment in the play, highlighting the contrasting personalities and beliefs of the two sisters.
Ismene’s decision not to help Antigone bury Polynices stems from her fear and obedience to the authority of King Creon. She believes that as women, they are bound by the rules and laws set by men, and that it is their duty to obey them. Ismene expresses her worry that if they were to go against Creon’s orders, they would only bring more suffering upon themselves and their already burdened family. She fears the consequences of defying the king and believes that their actions would be futile in the face of such authority.
While Ismene’s reasoning may seem practical and cautious, Antigone sees it as a betrayal of their family and their own moral duty. Antigone passionately argues that their loyalty should lie with their blood and familial ties rather than with the laws of men. She believes that the gods’ laws and the duty to honor their deceased brother should supersede any earthly laws. Antigone sees the act of burying Polynices as a sacred duty that cannot be neglected, regardless of the consequences.
The refusal of Ismene to help Antigone bury Polynices is a heartbreaking moment for both sisters. Antigone feels betrayed by Ismene’s lack of support, as she had hoped that they would stand together in their defiance against Creon. This rejection only strengthens Antigone’s resolve to carry out her plan alone, even if it means facing death.
In my own personal experiences, I have witnessed situations where individuals have had to make difficult choices between obeying authority and following their own moral compass. It can be challenging to go against the norms and expectations set by society or those in power, especially when the consequences may be severe. Ismene’s refusal to assist Antigone reflects the internal struggle that many people face when deciding whether to conform or stand up for what they believe in.
Ismene’s refusal to help her sister Antigone bury Polynices is a crucial moment in the play “Antigone.” It highlights the contrasting beliefs and personalities of the two sisters, with Ismene choosing to obey the authority of King Creon and Antigone choosing to follow her own moral duty. This refusal ultimately strengthens Antigone’s determination to carry out her plan alone, even if it means facing her own demise.