According to the Chorus, what happened between the brothers Eteocles and Polyneices? How do things in Thebes stand now? Cite evidence from the text to demonstrate your understanding.
In the play "Antigone" by Sophocles, the Chorus explains that Eteocles and Polyneices, the two brothers, fought against each other for control of the kingdom of Thebes. The Chorus states that "not as a seemly tale had been with mutual hand between them the dividing done, nor such as brought the kindred strife to pacifying end" (lines 88-90). This implies that the conflict between the brothers was not resolved peacefully and led to a destructive outcome.
As a result of their conflict, Eteocles and Polyneices both died, and Creon, their uncle, took control of Thebes. The Chorus laments the current state of Thebes, stating "Upon whose glories puts her hand the ruin of the brother pair; while friends lament and foes make game, a sport of doom and fear is wrought in city here" (lines 97-100). This shows that Thebes is now in a state of mourning and fear, with the legacy of the brothers' conflict continuing to impact the city.
Overall, the Chorus highlights the tragic consequences of the feud between Eteocles and Polyneices, and the turmoil that it has brought to Thebes.