Antigone

Antigone is a sister to Eteocles and Polyneices. She appears briefly at the end of the play to mourn the deaths of her brothers. When she learns that Polyneices is to be denied a proper burial, she vows to oppose the state and follow her own conscience. She is brave enough to argue with the Herald and to promise defiance of the council's edict. Antigone exits at the play's conclusion with Polyneices' body, intent on burying him.

Chorus

The chorus of Theban maidens sings sections of the play. Their purpose is to explain events or actions that occurred previously and to provide commentary on the events that are occurring. As the play opens, the Chorus learns of the impending battle and attempt to seize the city. The Chorus is afraid that Eteocles will lose the battle and the city will be captured. Because they fear they will be...