Journal #11 Antigone

The chorus' tone has changed from casually retelling events to an emotional explanation. This change it due to the turn of events in the play. In the beginning, everyone seems fine so the chorus need not hype up the audience. Now, the audience is getting more engaged so the chorus uses this moment to explain to them, what makes a tragedy. It is kind of like another definition or essay on what a tragedy is. The chorus states that "In a tragedy, nothing is in doubt and everyone's destiny is known. That makes for tranquility [...] You're trapped. The whole sky has fallen on you" (24). In a couple paragraphs, the chorus' tone has changed once again to a more laid back voice. He understands the excitement in the audience and mimics it, but than draws them to the realization that there is no real suspense because there is no doubt or mystery about everyone's destiny. The chorus is also getting more personal with the audience by using 'you' and 'I'. This is Anouilh's way of forcing the audience to reflect the play on their own life.