Question

Why is it ironic that Creon accuses Ismene of helping Antigone bury Polyneices?

Answer 1

B. Because Ismene was actually afraid to help Antigone

Answer 2

It is ironic that Creon accuses Ismene of helping Antigone to bury Polyneices (b.) because Ismene was actually afraid to help Antigone.

While Antigone is determined to bury Polyneices, Ismene, who is Antigone's sister, is afraid of the law and decides not to help Antigone to give their brother a propel burial. In the play, Ismene is less loyal and passionate than Antigone and she is also more fearful. It is ironic that Creon accuses Ismene because she is the one who reminds Antigone of the orders of Creon, who has resolved to condemn to death to anyone that dares to bury Polyneices. Ismene fears death; therefore, she tries to convince Antigone to obey the law. Moreover, she tries to make her sister realize how dangerous it is to fight against Creon. However, when Ismene is accused by Creon of helping Antigone she says she is also guilty. Ismene confesses a crime that she did not committed because she could not live without Antigone.