Dynamic Changes

Ismene and Haemon evolve throughout Antigone. Their character transformations allow the play to move forward without being monotonous. Ismene enters as a naïve and fearful sister, "...but defy the city? I have no strength for that" (93). Ismene cites herself as a weak willed person. Even for her sister Antigone, Ismene has not enough gumption to assist her. Yet subsequently, upon Antigone's seizure by the sentry, Ismene evolves into a new person. Ismene wholeheartedly states she will die with her sister, "But look, we're both guilty, both condemned to death"(629). Showcasing Ismene's character transformation makes her dynamic. In each case, Ismene utilizes death as something she can either overcome or succumb to. Ismene (even though she has nothing to do with the burial rights) identifies with Antigone's sins, and, in turn, shares her punishment. Juxtaposing Ismene's new loyal familial actions with her early selfish ones allows Ismene to become an integral part of Antigone.

This political cartoon helps to illustrate the struggle of uncovering truth
 in the face of those who have power.

Haemon’s transformation occurs much quicker than Ismene’s. Haemon originally agrees with his father Creon “Father I’m your son…I obey you” (709-710). This explicit statement solidifies the reader’s opinion of Haemon. Until, shortly after, Haemon renounces his father’s control over him: stating “What a splendid king you’d make of a desert island — you and you alone” (826-827). Harmon is underscoring Creon’s unsustainable governing methods — making him a corrupt and ineffective king. Haemon’s change of attitude is critical to the success of Antigone. Without a close family member exposing Creon’s hypocrisy to him, the plot would cease to move forward. Ismene and Haemon’s character changes are what allow Antigone to employ its morals and lessons. Character change exposes personal truths and the truths that others (like Creon) would like to bury.