The Tropes of the Dictator in José Watanabe’s Dramatic Work “Antígona”
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34624/fb.v0i21.41545Keywords:
Antigone, dictator, José Watanabe, animals, Latin American dramaturgy, justice, resistanceAbstract
This paper focuses on studying the images and tropes of the dictator that appear in the Greek tragedy Antigone by Sophocles, as seen through its reinterpretations, particularly that of José Watanabe. In the original play, animals are used symbolically and metaphorically to explore key themes such as justice and law, as well as to illustrate Antigone’s moral conflict. For example, the chorus compares Antigone to a bird that defies the orders of the dictator Creon in the name of her brother, reflecting her bravery and her defiance of human laws in favor of divine ones. This issue gains significance in Latin American reinterpretations, where the connection between animals and the figure of the dictator is intensified. Some adaptations portray dictators as predatory beasts that threaten the freedom and dignity of the people, using animal imagery as an allegorical tool to criticize authoritarian regimes. This association between animals and the dictator enables a powerful critique of oppression and abuse of power while highlighting the struggle of individuals for justice and freedom, in alignment with Antigone’s character in the original play. In summary, this study will explore how the representation of animals in Antigone guides us through the depiction of dictators in Latin American reinterpretations, offering a rich and meaningful metaphor for analyzing issues of power, justice, and resistance in different cultural contexts. Animals, whether as symbols of bravery or representations of dictatorial oppression, enrich dramatic literature and allow for a critical reflection on the nature of power and the struggle for freedom in both ancient and contemporary settings.
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