Valuable aspects of any literary work are its themes, symbols, and motifs. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to anatomize without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements. For best practices, see our article with specific lesson plan steps on setting up your classroom and activities to teach themes, symbols, and motifs.
In the classroom, students can track the rich symbolism Sophocles uses in the play.
During this period, laws were very important to the Greeks. There were two sets of laws that had to be obeyed: the law of the gods, and the law of man, or the King. Throughout the story of Antigone, there is a struggle to balance the expectations of the gods and the decree by the Creon. For Antigone, it is clear that no mortal's rule has a hold on her like the rules and laws of the afterlife. Antigone follows the rules of the gods, and buries her brother.
A predominant motif is that of suicide. Taking one's own life to bring an end to pain and suffering. In each of the Oedipus plays, numerous characters take their life instead of living with suffering. Rather than ending matters, these suicides are yet another link in a tragic chain, often leading to more suffering and death.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in Antigone. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.