Representation of Women in Antigone Although ancient Greece was a male-dominated society, Sophocles' play Antigone, portrays women as strong and capable of making wise decisions. In this famous tragedy, Sophocles uses the characters Ismene and Antigone to show the different characteristics and roles that women are typical to play. Traditionally women are characterized as weak and subordinate and Ismene is depicted this way. Through the character of Antigone, women are finally able to present realistic views on their character. The sexist stereotypes presented in this tragedy address many perspectives of men right now. Creon, the arrogant and tyrant leader, is precisely the character who exemplifies this point of view. Antigone's spirit is full of courage, passion and fury; which allow her to symbolize the very essence of woman. She is strong enough to do what her conscience tells her despite the laws of the land. Many examples in the play demonstrate that the character of Antigone is very capable of making her own decisions in the name of justice. First of all, Antigone opposes Creon's law and buries her killed brother; because in his mind it was immoral not to. He does this because he is compassionate and loves his brother very much. Creon, however, believes that his laws must be respected and would do anything to prevent any kind of rebellion. He is even more enraged when he learns that a woman has broken his laws. He tries to show Antigone who's boss by sentencing her to a life sentence. Secondly, Antigone shows how determined she is by proudly accepting her consequences. He does not try to hide that he is responsible for Creon's violation of the laws, in fact, he takes all the credit. Meanwhile he maintains his strength because he truly believes in his actions. These kinds of actions ultimately prove that Antigone is brave and willing to stand up to men, which was completely against the norm at the time. Her spirit refuses to submit to the role of a defenseless woman as her sister Ismene's character does. Ismene is a coward and refuses to help her sister because she feared men. This fear causes her to turn her head at the lack of respect shown to her brother Polyneices. Her character is a faithful representation of the male gender's views regarding women. She is subordinate and strong-willed. He refuses to oppose Creon even though he knows in his heart that his laws are morally wrong.