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44 pages 1 hour read

Antigone

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1944

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Book Brief

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Jean Anouilh

Antigone

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1944
Book Details
Pages

72

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Greece

Publication Year

1944

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Antigone by Jean Anouilh, set in Nazi-occupied France, tells the story of Antigone who defies King Creon's decree by burying her brother Polynices, invoking a higher moral law. As she faces Creon's wrath, she remains steadfast in her beliefs, leading to a contentious debate about justice, authority, and morality, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences. The source material depicts death by suicide.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.8

27,512 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jean Anouilh's Antigone has been praised for its powerful reimagining of the classic Greek tragedy, capturing the existential struggles and moral complexities of its characters. Critics appreciate the modern setting and the timeless themes of resistance and duty. However, some find the dialogue overly dense and the philosophical discourse heavy-handed. Overall, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking adaptation.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Antigone?

Jean Anouilh's Antigone appeals to readers fascinated by classical tragedy and existentialist themes. Fans of Albert Camus's The Stranger or Sophocles' Oedipus Rex will appreciate its moral complexity and exploration of individual versus state conflict. Its modern adaptation offers a fresh take for both literature enthusiasts and those interested in philosophical dilemmas.

3.8

27,512 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Antigone

Antigone is a tenacious and principled young woman, the daughter of Oedipus and niece of King Creon, who is engaged to Creon's son, Haemon. She grapples with issues of femininity and is driven by a strong sense of moral duty.

Creon is the stern and pragmatic king of Thebes, uncle to Antigone and father to Haemon. He is concerned with maintaining order and authority in his kingdom.

In this adaptation, the Chorus is portrayed by a single actor who serves as an omniscient narrator, guiding the audience through the story.

Ismene is Antigone's younger, thoughtful sister, who is depicted as beautiful and practical and initially at odds with Antigone's impulsive nature.

Haemon is Creon's son and Antigone's fiancé, described as youthful and spirited. He shares a deep, committed love with Antigone.

The Nurse is a maternal figure who raised Antigone and Ismene, providing them with comfort and guidance in their upbringing.

Book Details
Pages

72

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Ancient Greece

Publication Year

1944

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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