Antigone

The Antigone of Sophocles is a landmark play in Greek theatre. First performed in 441 BC, it won instant recognition within the genre. In several ways, we can see it as a perfect Greek tragedy, in which the defects of the main characters lead on to their own destruction. More than 2,400 years later, the play still has a timeless quality. In today's world, there are countries where women are repressed, where citizens lose their most basic rights, and where the rule of Law is misunderstood. With no possible defence, Antigone may help us understand that we are not alone in the modern world. 


This new translation by Julian Morgan aims to make the play accessible to a modern audience and was created with performance in mind. The book features not only the translation but also a set of sound files showing how names are pronounced and another set giving commentary notes on the play, characters, plot and various literary effects. There is a glossary of names of places and people, which also features explanations of some of the main aspects of Greek theatre.


This work will suit anyone wanting to enjoy a new, carefully crafted translation of this masterpiece, whilst also aiming to serve those who want to dig a little deeper. If you are looking to create a performance of the play, it should help inspire you with some ideas.


Julian Morgan is the author of many educational software titles and books. He has had many years of experience as Head of Classics and has also taught Theatre Studies and Philosophy at the European School in Karlsruhe, Germany. His publications include the whole range of books and Apps in the Imperium Latin course (J-PROGS), Nero, Hadrian, Constantine, Cleopatra (Rosen Central Publishing 2003) and the Horace Trail (Oxford University Press 2002). His software titles include Rome the Eternal City, Pompeii and Roman Technology (J-PROGS).