Washing and Anointing: Antigone washes Polyneices' body and anoints it with oils and ointments. This is a traditional practice in ancient Greek funerary rituals and signifies purification and preparation for the afterlife.
Laying Out the Body: Antigone lays out Polyneices' body, wrapping him in a cloak or shroud. This act demonstrates respect for the deceased and symbolizes his transition from life to death.
Pouring Libations: Antigone pours libations of wine over Polyneices' grave. This offering is made to the gods of the underworld, honoring the dead and ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife.
Offering Prayers: Antigone recites prayers and supplications over Polyneices' grave, addressing the gods and asking for their favor and mercy. These prayers express her love and devotion for her brother and implore the gods to grant him peace and justice in the underworld.
By performing these rites, Antigone fulfills her religious and moral duty to honor and properly bury her brother Polyneices, despite the risks and consequences she faces in defying the edict of King Creon, who forbade his burial.