Need help with this--
'Think about how you might update Antigone in a modern setting, either in the US, or in some other part of the world. What kind of figure would Creon be? Who would Antigone be? What would Creon's conflict with Antigone be about? Write a brief summary of your modern version.'
I think I want to make Creon either a leader, or a head of a family. But I can't think of what the conflict would be in modern day times. Please help!
Thanks
-MC
Antigone is a strong woman who won't give up her desires. I think there are parallels with some modern popular stars, but I'm not familiar enough with them to be sure. I can also see her as one of our strong political leaders -- Hilary Clinton or Sarah Palin or Nancy Pelosi.
This character analysis of Antigone will give you some additional ideas.
http://www.sparknotes.com/drama/antigone/canalysis.html
To update Antigone in a modern setting, you can consider various aspects of the story and how they can be translated into contemporary scenarios. Here's an approach to generating ideas for Creon's figure and the conflict with Antigone:
1. Identify a Modern Figure for Creon: Think about powerful figures or institutions in modern society. Creon could be a political leader, a boss in a corporate setting, a head of a criminal organization, or even a strict religious leader. Depending on the setting you choose, consider which figure would provide the potential for a compelling conflict with Antigone.
2. Determine Antigone's Role: Antigone is often portrayed as a defiant and morally upright character who stands up for her principles. In a modern setting, Antigone could be a strong-willed individual who challenges the authority or actions of Creon. She could be a dissident, an activist, or a whistleblower. Consider the context in which she exists and the values she embodies.
3. Develop the Conflict: The conflict between Creon and Antigone revolves around their differing ideals and responsibilities. In a modern version, Creon's conflict with Antigone could be based on issues such as individual rights versus state authority, personal integrity versus loyalty, or societal expectations versus personal freedom.
For example, if Creon is a political leader, the conflict could revolve around a controversial government policy that Antigone opposes due to its ethical implications. If Creon is a head of a family, the conflict could arise when Antigone reveals a dark secret or uncovers a long-held family injustice. The conflict should challenge both characters' beliefs and lead to significant consequences.
4. Write a Brief Summary: To craft a summary of your modern version, consider how the contemporary setting influences the characters' motivations, actions, and the overall plot. Introduce the key elements, including the characterizations of Creon and Antigone, the central conflict, and the potential consequences. Remember to emphasize how the modern context enhances the relevance and impact of the story.
By brainstorming different modern figures for Creon, identifying Antigone's role and values, and exploring potential conflicts based on contemporary issues, you can develop a unique and thought-provoking modern version of Antigone.