Examples Of Foil In Antigone
Antigone by Sophocles, tells the story of two brothers, of one is given a proper burial and the other is
not. Throughout the story two characters contrast. In literature, a foil is a character that has contrasting
traits from another character. These distinctions often better develop characters and help the reader
notice the specific traits of each character. Antigone who is outgoing, aggressive, and willing to fight
for what she believes in, contrasts with her sister, who is more introverted, soft spoken, and cautious.
Ismene is a foil for Antigone. Before committing the crime of burying Polynices, Antigone must ask
Ismene for help. Minimizing the risk of her crime, Antigone asks Ismene for help as if it s a simple
favor. Will you help me? Will you do something with me? Will you? (507) Ismene, uncomfortable
with helping Antigone, must decline. This is difficult for her, so instead of just saying no, she feels she
needs to give some sort of explanation. O sister, sister, do you forget how our father perished in shame
and misery, his awful sin self proved, blinded by his own self mutilation? And then his mother, his
wife, for she was both, destroyed herself in a noose of her own making? And now our brothers, both in
a single day... (507) Ismene ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
At the end of their fight, the decision is made; Antigone will bury Polynices. Ismene s disapproving
attitude does not sit well with Antigone. Oh, I shall hate you if you talk like that! And he will hate you,
rightly. Leave me alone with my own madness. There is no punishment that can rob me of my
honorable death. (508) Ismene proved not to take after her sister s hot headed attitude when she
replied to Antigone. Go then, if you are determined, to your folly. But remember that those who love
you... love you still. (508) Ismene s patience is more honorable in the face of Antigone s angers and
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