How does Ismene respond when questioned by Creon about her involvement in Polynices' burial?

How does Ismene respond when questioned by Creon about her involvement in Polynices' burial?

• A. She confesses immediately
• B. She denies any involvement
• C. She claims ignorance
• D. She accepts blame willingly

Answer: (C)

In the play "Antigone," when Creon confronts Ismene regarding her involvement in the burial of her brother Polynices, she claims ignorance. This response reflects her initial fear and reluctance to challenge Creon's authority. Ismene is aware of the grave consequences that could arise from defying the king’s orders, so she focuses on her own sense of safety and the belief that she did not partake in the act of burial. This moment highlights the contrast between her and Antigone's characters—Antigone's boldness in pursuing what she believes to be right, in stark opposition to Ismene's more cautious and submissive nature. Ismene's plea of ignorance also underscores the themes of loyalty, morality, and the complex dynamics of familial duty versus obedience to the state present throughout the play.

In the play "Antigone," when Creon confronts Ismene regarding her involvement in the burial of her brother Polynices, she claims ignorance. This response reflects her initial fear and reluctance to challenge Creon's authority. Ismene is aware of the grave consequences that could arise from defying the king’s orders, so she focuses on her own sense of safety and the belief that she did not partake in the act of burial. This moment highlights the contrast between her and Antigone's characters—Antigone's boldness in pursuing what she believes to be right, in stark opposition to Ismene's more cautious and submissive nature. Ismene's plea of ignorance also underscores the themes of loyalty, morality, and the complex dynamics of familial duty versus obedience to the state present throughout the play.