1. Loyalty and Kinship:
Ismene's love and loyalty for her sister, Antigone, are evident from the beginning. She is concerned about Antigone's well-being and tries to dissuade her from defying Creon's edict against burying Polyneices. However, Ismene lacks the courage to join Antigone in her mission, prioritizing self-preservation and adhering to societal norms.
2. Fear of Authority and Consequences:
Ismene's caution stems from her fear of authority and potential punishment for defying Creon's decree. She worries about the repercussions of their actions and warns Antigone about the severe consequences of challenging the law. Ismene's fear reflects the societal pressures and the weight of external expectations that often conflict with personal convictions.
3. Contrast to Antigone's Strength:
By contrasting Ismene's timidity with Antigone's unyielding determination, Sophocles highlights the latter's exceptional courage and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Ismene's hesitancy serves as a foil to Antigone's unwavering resolve, further emphasizing the protagonist's strength and moral integrity.
4. Gender Roles and Societal Norms:
Ismene's character also represents the expectations placed on women within the patriarchal society of ancient Greece. She is depicted as more passive, submissive, and guided by societal conventions. This aligns with the traditional gender roles of the time, where women were often expected to prioritize the collective over the individual.
5. Internal Conflict and Moral Dilemma:
Ismene's internal conflict arises from her genuine care for Antigone and her awareness of the moral imperative to bury their brother. However, her fear and societal conditioning hinder her from taking action. Ismene's struggle reflects the universal human dilemma of balancing personal values with external pressures.
6. Catalyst for Antigone's Actions:
Ismene's refusal to participate in Antigone's plan indirectly contributes to the play's tragic events. Her decision forces Antigone to act alone, leading to her eventual arrest and condemnation. Ismene's choice, though understandable, ultimately sets the stage for the play's tragic conclusion.
In conclusion, Ismene's role as a minor character in "Antigone" is significant in contrasting the protagonist's unwavering determination with a more conventional and fearful mindset. Her thoughts and actions highlight the themes of loyalty, family, societal expectations, and the internal conflict between personal values and external pressures, enhancing the overall depth and complexity of the play.