Antigone (2021)

Lesson 4
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ELA

Unit 14

10th Grade

Lesson 4 of 10

Objective


Analyze and explain how Antigone’s dialogue and behavior in this scene contribute to theme. 

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Antigone by Sophocles; Translated by Robert Fagles  pp. 15 – 20

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

Which of the following best describes Antigone’s reaction to her uncle on p. 17?

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Sample Response

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Which quote from later in the reading best enforces your answer above?

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Sample Response

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Writing Prompt

How does Sophocles use Antigone’s character to reveal theme in this scene? Use specific quotations from the text to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • What news does the Sentinel bring to Creon on p. 15?
  • What does the Sentinel mean by “wash my hands” of it? p. 16
  • What had the Sentinel done with. the body? p. 16
  • How did they find the person who did it?
  • How does the Sentinel know he has found the right culprit? pp. 16–17
  • How did Antigone react to being captured? What does this reveal about her? p. 17
  • What are Antigone’s first words to the king? Why are they significant? p. 17
  • How does Antigone justify ignoring the king’s orders? 
  • How does Antigone describe her “pain” on p. 18? 
  • How do the Senator’s words on p. 18 reinforce Antigone’s character?
  • What is Creon surprised about on p. 18?
  • What is Creon’s plan for Antigone and Ismene?
  • How does Antigone’s dialogue on p. 19 reinforce earlier inferences about her character?
  • According to Antigone, what is “tyranny’s privilege?” p. 19
  • What does Antigone argue in the exchange at the bottom of p. 19?
  • How does Antigone feel about her crime? p. 20

Notes


  • Today’s reading begins at the entrance of the Sentinel with Antigone.
  • Assign pp. 21–22 for homework, asking students to focus on Sophocles’s characterization of Ismene through her exchange with Creon.
    • allusion to the “furies” p. 21
    • Does Ismene declare innocence or guilt?
    • What does the above reveal about her and what theme is reinforced? p. 21
    • How does Antigone treat her sister? Why? p. 21
    • Why is their “delinquency” equal according to Ismene? p. 22
    • On p. 22, Ismene brings up a key relationship between Antigone and Creon that had not yet been mentioned. How are they connected (besides being niece and uncle)?

Next

Analyze the dialogue between Haemon and Creon in order to explain how it furthers the conflict. 

Hypothesize the purpose of Haemon’s character.

Lesson 5
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