Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A character in Greek mythology: Antigone is the daughter of Oedipus and Jocasta (or, in some versions, Euryganeia). She is a central figure in Sophocles' tragic plays, most famously in the play Antigone, where she defies the king's decree to give her brother Polynices a proper burial.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Sophocles' tragedy "Antigone" explores themes of civil disobedience and familial duty.
  • In the myth, Antigone is condemned to death for burying her brother.
  • The character of Antigone has become a symbol of moral resistance against unjust state authority.

Advanced Usage

• As an archetype: The name "Antigone" is often used to represent a person who prioritizes divine or moral law over human law.
  • Her protest was described by the journalist as an Antigone-like stand against the regime.

Variants and Related Words

• Antigonean (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Antigone.
  • The actress gave an Antigonean performance, full of defiance and sorrow.

Synonyms

• None directly applicable: As a unique proper noun from mythology, there are no true synonyms. Related concepts include:
  • Defiant heroine
  • Tragic figure

Related Phrases

• An Antigone complex: A modern, non-clinical term sometimes used to describe a daughter's intense loyalty to her father or family, often to a self-destructive degree. (Note: This is a derived, modern usage, not from the original myth).
  • Her unwavering support for her disgraced father bordered on an Antigone complex.

Related Idioms

• To make an Antigone-like choice: To choose a course of action based on personal conscience or familial duty, knowing it will lead to severe punishment.
  • The whistleblower knew she was making an Antigone-like choice by releasing the documents.

Noun

1. (Greek mythology) the daughter of King Oedipus who disobeyed her father and was condemned to death