The Seven Against Thebes Imagery

The Seven Against Thebes Imagery

Tydeus

Tydeus is said to be screaming at the Proetid Gate. Yelling profanities at the prophet. This imagery immediately sets the tone for the violence that is in opposition to Eteocles and his people.

Wolves

Antigone declares she will bury Polycines even if she has to do it alone, no wolves will feast on her brother's flesh. This imagery places clearly into our minds the reality of her brother's body being lifeless and the thought of wolves brings quickly to the mind the image of tearing flesh, which all become Antigone's opposition.

Justice

Polycines' shield has lady Justice leading a man and has on it inscribed, "I will bring this man home for a turn in the house." The imagery shows clearly that Polycines knows that he is in his rights to come after his brother, who has acted unjustly in denying him his right to rule.

Electran Gate

Capanaues is said to be at the Electran Gate, and the Messenger tells Etecoles that he is a giant. The Messenger then describes him as a man who, "likens lighting flashes and thunderbolts to the warm sunshine of noon." This imagery creates the description of violence within an enormous man who was not made for mere combat but for war.

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