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Description
This book offers a re-evaluation of Ismene in Sophocles' Antigone, challenging the traditional view of her as merely a foil to her sister, Antigone. Through a close analysis of key passages, it argues for a more nuanced understanding of Ismene's character, emotions and motivations, asserting that she is as compelling and fully realised as Antigone. This work contributes to ongoing debates about classical texts and their reception, highlighting the need to re-examine canonical works with fresh perspectives.
While Antigone has often been celebrated as heroic, Ismene is typically dismissed as timid and conventional. This book disrupts such interpretations, examining how the relationship between the sisters reveals deeper complexities. Engaging with contemporary interdisciplinary approaches, it explores how historical ideologies have shaped the understanding of Antigone. It situates Ismene within broader conversations about agency, individuality and the representation of women in classical literature.
Accessibility Information
Additional accessibility information
- PDF/UA-2, 1.4
- accessibility@bloomsbury.com
Hazards
The publication contains no hazards
Support for non-visual reading
Has alternative text descriptions for images
Navigation
- Page list to go to pages from the print source version
- Elements such as headings, tables, etc for structured navigation
- All or substantially all textual matter is arranged in a single logical reading order
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Sophoclean Sisters
Chapter 2: Antigone & Ismene: The First Meeting
Chapter 3: Antigone & Ismene: The Second Meeting
Chapter 4: Electra & Chrysothemis
Conclusion
Appendices:
Text and Translation: Antigone & Ismene
Text and Translation: Electra & Chrysothemis
Notes
Bibliography
Index
Product details
| Published | Aug 20 2026 |
|---|---|
| Format | Ebook (PDF) |
| Edition | 1st |
| Pages | 240 |
| ISBN | 9781350562493 |
| Imprint | Bloomsbury Academic |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |

























