How does Antigone defend herself in

Antigone defends herself in Sophocles' play by asserting her right to bury her brother Polyneices, even though King Creon has forbidden it. She argues that the laws of the gods, which demand that the dead be buried, are more important than the laws of man. She also points out that she is not acting out of personal ambition, but rather out of love and duty to her brother. Antigone's defense is both passionate and logical, and it shows her to be a strong and courageous woman who is willing to stand up for what she believes in, even in the face of great danger.

Here are some specific examples of how Antigone defends herself in the play:

* She argues that the gods' laws are more important than man's laws: "I did not think your edicts strong enough / To over-ride the gods' unwritten and unfailing laws" (lines 450-451).

* She argues that she is acting out of love and duty to her brother: "I did it for the sake of my own brother. / I would have done the same for anyone else" (lines 510-511).

* She argues that she is not afraid of death: "I knew when I did it / That I would pay the price. I'm not afraid to die" (lines 515-517).

Antigone's defense is ultimately unsuccessful, as Creon refuses to change his mind and she is sentenced to death. However, her defense shows her to be a brave and principled woman who is willing to stand up for what she believes in, even in the face of death.