In literature, a journey serves as a “plot device” used to further develop the storyline. What is it about a story that stimulates our interest in journeys? What is it about a journey that leaves readers itching for more yet leaves readers discontent if a story lacks one? In some cases, readers simply want to be encouraged. There lies deep satisfaction in a storyline wherein a character, removed from his known world, must venture into the unknown to demonstrate inspiring courage, spirit, and confidence to confront his own personal hardship. The reader observes how the journey has shaped the character’s growth and admires his ability to persist in the face of difficulty. Now able to empathize and identify with the character, the reader feels more inclined to journey toward his/her own hardships and, like the character in the story, is motivated to survive and prosper despite all odds.
In other instances, readers crave a storyline that explores the dark side of a journey and introduces emotional conflict so intense that it keeps the reader turning pages. Some types of these “quest texts” encompass tragic journeys wherein the protagonist, though of a good heart and of likeable character, is slayed for performing actions and holding beliefs that contradict those of authorities/ society.
My favorite “quest text” is a play called Antigone, a tragedy written by Sophocles in 442 BC. This play centers on the Theban princess, Antigone, who goes against Creon’s authoritative proclamation stating that her brother, Polynieces, must lie unburied and open to desecration by the vultures and the dogs. Caught in a precarious dilemma, Antigone must decide where her loyalty lies: with her King or with her kin. Although fully aware that defying Creon could result in her death, she surrenders to her moral obligation to honor her brother and performs the burial procedures allowing his soul to cross over to the underworld. In doing so, she has sacrificed her life for that of her brother’s eternal well-being in. As she walks to her death, Antigone’s journey ends with an inspiring nobleness and spiritedness as she holds firm in her belief to protect her kin.
While you answered the prompt fully with your blog, I don't think of Antigone as a quest. It's more like an internal struggle and the tragedy that ensues from her choice. I just don't see how it is a journey. However, I like how you answered the other questions with your blog.
ReplyDeleteI think that Antigone is a great example of a journey. Although it may not have many of the stereotypical aspects of a "quest text," I think that it embodies different characteristics of a journey. Throughout the play, although it may be lacking in a physical journey, the character does have to endure an internal journey as she makes the decision to bury her brother. This decision catipolts her into a spiritual journey and a journey to stand up for her beliefs.
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