Antigonick is Anne Carson's translation of Sophocles' Antigone. The project, which is a comic-book presentation of the classic Greek work was collaborated on by Robert Currie with drawings by Bianca Stone. Caron's interpretation quite has a biting irony to it as is seen through the characterization of the chorus, and plays up the background of the characters to offer a broader landscape for contemporary readers/viewers to enter the work of Sophocles.
The play is set in Thebes and follows the story of Antigone, a young girl whose two brothers have died in battle, and the consequences of her refusal to adhere to the rules of the new ruler, Kreon. Antigone's actions set in motion a series of events that ultimately lead to her death. The chorus, which is a group of old men and women who comment on the action of the play, is presented in Carson's translation as a group of unruly teenagers who are full of wit and sass. This is a stark contrast to the original Greek chorus, which is a much more dignified and respectful group.
The use of these characters to punctuate the story creates an interesting juxtaposition between the ancient and the modern. This contrast is further highlighted by the use of language and slang throughout the book, which gives the piece a contemporary feel. The effect of this is to draw the reader in, as they can relate to the characters on a more human level. Additionally, the use of language also allows readers to better understand the motivations of the characters and their decisions.
Carson's translation of Sophocles' Antigone is an interesting mix of the ancient and the modern, and her use of language and characterization of the chorus creates a unique and engaging reading experience. The comic-book format lends itself well to the story, as the artwork can illustrate the story in a vivid way that evokes emotion from the reader. Carson's adaptation of the classic Greek work is an innovative and unique way to engage with Sophocles' work and will surely be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Carson's translation of the Greek play is done in a non-traditional manner as Carson creates new monologues for characters, and uses language that at times feels as though her personal feelings and thoughts about the play (and the Greeks' use of structure and characters) are what is on display. The book has received mixed reviews from critics and was published in 2012 by New Directions.
