Antigone Essay
GENERAL ASSIGNMENT: This essay asks you to delve into literary analysis in order to
analyze some aspect of Antigone.
POSSIBLE TOPICS from which you might develop a thesis (in each case remember that
you need to have an overall point – an original insight of your own). There are many other possibilities. You are not limited to these. A. Discuss the differences between Antigone and Ismene in their views of women in society. How does each sister’s view shape the choices she makes in the play? How consistent is each in her view? Be sure to cite specific quotes from the play to support your answers. B. Look at Antigone, Ismene, Creon, and Haemon, and at what happenes to them and their relationships. What do you think is the role of family ties in "Antigone?" Which is more important to Sophocles, family or authority? Why? Be sure to cite specific quotes from the play to support your answers. C. Creon says to his son Haemon, "Therefore, we must defend the men who live by law, never let some woman triumph over us. Better to fall from power, if fall we must, at the hands of a man – never be rated inferior to a woman, never” (Sophocles, Antigone 757 762). How do you think this idea is dealt with in Antigone? What does the play say about a woman's place in society? What ideas does it question? What ideas doesn't it question? How do the two sisters, Antigone and Ismene, offer up different comparison points for the play? Be sure to cite specific quotes from the play to support your answers. D. "Unswerving submission to whomsoever the state has put in charge is what is asked." Creon makes this statement concerning authority when talking to his son, Haemon. What are the views of authority and power in this play expressed by different characters and which view do you think comes out on top at the end of the play? Why? Be sure to cite specific quotes from the play to support your answers. E. Consider one of the following themes: Betrayal, disloyalty, and infidelity; The role of women in society; Death, suicide, and murder; or Rebellion against authority and social customs. How does Sophocles treat this theme? What lesson is to be learned from Antigone about this theme? Does it (or can it) relate to modern American society? If so, how? Be sure to cite specific quotes from the play to support your answers.
Specific Instructions:
Must be between 4-7 paragraphs, with each paragraph containing two CDs and each CD must have at least one to two CMs. (I am more concerned with content rather than word count or paragraphs, but you must make sure you have fully developed your argument.) Must use Times New Roman, 12-point font, 1-inch margins. Must use MLA style documentation format. See sample essays for more info. Remember the supporting paragraph formula: TS, QI, CD, CM, CM, CD, CM, CM, CL
Ruxton 11/08
Antigone Essay Grading Rubric
Name: Introduction: Hook Connector (including title and author) Thesis statement Body Evidence: Quotes (four minimum in body) Paraphrases (correctly cited) Conclusion Follows directions/prompt Grammar/Mechanics/Spelling/MLA format Writing Process Stamp (draft completed on time) Peer edited and changes made on final Points Earned Points Pos. 20
30 30 10 10 25 10 15
Total:
150
Ruxton 11/08