Explain how the tragic elements identified by Aristotle, including how Sophocles uses the power of allusion, enhance the plot and experience for the audience.
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Answer:
Aristotle said that tragedy contained six main elements: character, plot, diction, thought, spectacle, and music. In Scene 4 and Ode 4 of Antigone, Sophocles uses the power of allusion to connect back to several of these elements. By doing so, he enhances both the experience for the audience and the plot.
The first allusion is during Scene 4, when Antigone talks about the fate of Niobe. She was a woman in Greek mythology whose 14 children were killed by the gods as punishment for her arrogance. The audience sees a connection between Niobe and Antigone, as they both mourn for their family. This sets a pitiful mood as the audience becomes more and more scared for Antigone's fate, and a melancholy tone as they watches Antigone tell the tragic tale.
However, the audience is also given hope. In Ode 4, the Chorus talks about Danae, who, like Antigone, was locked away by her family. However, the gods set her free. This is a hint that Antigone may be saved by the gods as well. In addition, the Chorus also tells the story of King Lycurgus, who was put in prison for mocking Dionysus, the god of fertility, wine, and theater. The audience notices that Creon shares similarities to King Lycurgus, suggesting that Creon may be punished for his actions by the gods.
Overall, the three allusions seen in Scene 4 and Ode 4 of Antigone enhance the plot because they suggest multiple ways this story could end. They also enhance the experience for the audience, as they build suspense. They know what's at stake- but they also know Antigone could be saved. But the only way to find out which path it takes is to watch the next scene, leaving them at the edges of their seats.