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Sophoclean Sisters

Reconsidering Antigone & Ismene

Sophoclean Sisters cover

Sophoclean Sisters

Reconsidering Antigone & Ismene

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Pre-order. Available 20 Aug 2026
£61.20 RRP £76.50 Website price saving £15.30 (20%)

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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.

Table of Contents

Introduction

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

Bloomsbury Academic Test
Published 20 Aug 2026
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Extent 224
ISBN 9781350562493
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Peta Ann Fox

Peta Ann Fox is a Lecturer in Classical Studies, A…

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