The relationship between sisters is not an easy one to understand. As sisters grow older their relationship evolves and changes with them. The older sister will typically continue to be the one in charge of situations involving both sisters. Sophocles does a good job presenting the relationship between sisters but fails at showing how real the arguments can be. Ismene should have fought harder against her sister in the opening argument and not waited until her sister was facing death to join her. As a sister I will sacrifice myself, guilt trip my sister into making a decision, and lie for my sister to protect her because of the love I have for her.
I have a younger sister and there is nothing in the world that I would not do for her. My life has revolved around her since the day she was born. I often do not know what I would do without her in my life. I can understand Ismene having a change of heart when she realizes she will lose her sister forever. When she speaks of not having a reason to live without Antigone I can relate, because I do not see a future for me without my sister. I would die for my sister, because I know that she will surpass any expectation and make a difference in this world. I also can understand why Antigone will not allow Ismene to take credit for something she did not do, especially since it would mean her death as well. Antigone would not be able to die in peace if she knew that her sister was dying along side her for a crime she did not commit. By not allowing Ismene to die Antigone is showing her love for her sister even if it comes across as anger. Love is a powerful emotion and comes out it many forms, but it is still love nonetheless.
The opening argument expresses how serious of an offense Antigone is going to make. Both sisters know that it will mean her death. Antigone even speaks of lying in death with her brother. Ismene was a disappointment as a sister in this opening scene.
