Antigone in All Studios

June 20th 2025

This Monday, pupils gathered in All Studios for an engaging talk from Ms Hardy on the background of Greek tragedy and the impact of Sophocles’ Antigone on literature. After her introduction, they watched the recent National Theatre production starring Jodie Whittaker.

Ms Hardy helped pupils understand how Greek tragedies are characterised by their depictions of profound suffering and guided them through the different interpretations of Antigone across history. The play’s focus on the death of Polynices and Eteocles challenged students to consider Antigone’s strong belief in family loyalty, set against Creon’s (her uncle and the new king) determination to maintain absolute power, especially through his decree to leave Polynices unburied.

Watching the production brought these complex ideas to life for the pupils. While many might initially see Antigone as the tragic hero who meets a brutal end, the National Theatre’s performance revealed the tragic dimensions of Creon’s story as well. Students witnessed how his (possibly misguided) moral compass led to the loss of those closest to him, ending in a devastating, bloody conclusion.

Overall, Ms Hardy’s talk and the performance offered the pupils a rich experience, combining the theoretical importance of Antigone with a vivid stage portrayal, helping them connect deeply with the tragedy.

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