Antigone (modern play)
Jean Anouilh's play Antigone is a tragedy inspired by Greek mythology and the play of the same name (Antigone, by Sophocles) from the fifth century B.C. It is often distinguished from its antecedant by being pronounced in its original French form, approximately "Ante-GŌN." The play was first performed in Paris on February 6 1944, not insignificantly during the Nazi occupation thereof. It is widely understood that the character of Antigone was to stand in for courageous members of the French resistance, while her uncle Créon represents the collaborators to the German occupiers. Just as in the myth and orginal play, the action follows the battle for Thèbes in which both of Antigone's brothers have been killed. Créon, now king, has decreed that while Antigone's brother Etéocle should be given the usual respectful burial, Polynice must be left to as carrion for scavengers. Antigone chooses to attempt to bury Polynice, is brought before Créon as a prisonner. Créon attempts to overlook the offense, perhaps because Antigone is betrothed to his son Hémon, but Antigone refuses to be denied the responsibility for her actions, whether they be viewed as guilt or credit. The crux of the play is the lengthy dialogue between Créon and Antigone concerning the nature of power, fate, and choice. Aside from the two major speaking roles, also appearing are: Ismène, Antigone's sisterLa Nourrice, Antigone's nursemaidHémon, Antigone's betrothedLes gardes, Theban royal guardsLe chœur, a Greek-style chorusLe messager, a messanger
Créon's wife Eurydice is spoken of but does not appear onstage.
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