It's probably not a stretch to say that family is THE most important thing to Antigone. You could see her dedication as being particularly noble considering the fact that her family is just about as dysfunctional as it gets. Many people would run away screaming and never looks back if they found out that their dad was also their brother, or if their other brothers killed each other. Not Antigone, though. She stands beside her father, Oedipus, throughout his disgrace, and she insists on making sure her brother, Polyneices, receives a proper burial despite the fact that she never agreed with his war against Eteocles.

1. How does Antigone demonstrate her dedication to her family?
2. In what ways does Antigone's loyalty to her family lead to her death?
3. Do you think Antigone's loyalty to her family is a good thing? Explain your answer.
4. In what ways has Antigone's family been "polluted"?
5. Compare and contrast Antigone and Ismene's relationship with their family.