Antigone and Ismene heard with horror what Creon had decided. To Ismene, shocking as it was, overwhelming her with anguish for the pitiful dead body and the lonely, homeless soul, it seemed, nevertheless, that nothing could be done except to acquiesce. She and Antigone were utterly alone. All Thebes was exulting that the man who had brought war upon them should be thus terribly punished. "We are women," she told her sister. "We must obey. We have no strength to defy the State." "Choose your own part," Antigone said. "I go to bury the brother I love." "You are not strong enough," Ismene cried. "Why, then when my strength fails," Antigone answered, "I will give up." She left her sister; Ismene dared not follow her.
–“The Royal House of Thebes,”
Edith Hamilton
How does the character of Ismene contrast with Antigone’s archetype?
Ismene represents a coward in comparison to Antigone’s heroine.
Ismene shows true leadership compared to Antigone’s cowardice.
Ismene shows quiet confidence, which is the opposite of Antigone’s leadership.
Ismene displays the physical strength of a warrior that Antigone does not have.
Ismene represents a coward in comparison to Antigone’s heroine.
The character of Ismene contrasts with Antigone’s archetype in that she represents a coward in comparison to Antigone’s heroine.
To determine how the character of Ismene contrasts with Antigone's archetype, we need to analyze the passage and understand the traits and actions of both characters. From the given text, we can gather information about their personalities and beliefs.
First, let's identify the characteristics and actions of Ismene:
- Ismene is described as being shocked and overwhelmed by Creon's decision, feeling anguish for the dead body and the soul of their brother.
- Ismene believes that nothing can be done except to acquiesce to Creon's decision.
- Ismene feels utterly alone, as she and Antigone seem to be the only ones who disagree with Creon's punishment.
- Ismene believes that, as women, they must obey and lack the strength to defy the State.
Now, let's examine the traits and actions of Antigone:
- Antigone is also shocked by Creon's decision but is willing to take action despite her fear and anguish.
- Antigone wants to bury their brother, showing her strong emotional attachment and love for him.
- Antigone is determined to act even if it means defying the State and facing the consequences.
- Antigone expresses her belief that Ismene can choose her own path, but she will bury their brother regardless.
Based on this analysis, we can see that Ismene represents a more cautious and compliant character, while Antigone demonstrates determination, defiance, and a willingness to take risks. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is:
Ismene represents a coward in comparison to Antigone’s heroine.