Antigone is the 16-to-18-year-old daughter of the former king Oedipus and a princess of Thebes. Headstrong and firmly principled, she believes deeply in familial honor and the supremacy of divine law over mortal decrees. Her determination places her at odds with traditional expectations for subservient women in ancient Greek society, as she views loyalty to the gods and her fallen brother as her highest obligation.

Kreon is the current ruler of Thebes, taking the throne following the mutual deaths of his nephews in battle. He values strict obedience to the law above all else, seeing it as the only way to maintain order and protect the city from insurrection. His absolute reliance on human law and his own authority creates a severe blind spot regarding divine requirements.

Ismene is the daughter of Oedipus and sister to Antigone. She conforms to the expectations of her social standing, demonstrating deference to civil law and male authority. She operates as a foil to her sister, possessing a more cautious and compliant demeanor regarding the decrees of the city.

Composed of 15 elderly Theban men, the Chorus serves as a council of advisors to King Kreon. They provide context on the play's events, connect the unfolding situation to broader mythology, and represent the voice of the city's senior citizens. Initially, their loyalty leans heavily toward the king and his newly established laws.

Haimon is the son of Kreon and the future king of Thebes. He is a level-headed and respectful young man who listens to the general populace rather than ruling through fear. He attempts to use reason to guide his father toward more merciful and morally sound decisions, holding him to a higher standard of leadership.

Teiresias is an elderly, blind seer native to Thebes. He possesses the powerful gift of foretelling the future through oracles and understanding the will of the gods. Despite his physical blindness and advanced age, he commands significant spiritual authority and expects rulers to heed his warnings regarding divine law.

Polyneikes is a deceased son of Oedipus who recently attacked Thebes with an allied army from Argos. He fought his brother Eteokles for the throne, resulting in mutual fratricide. Kreon's decree forbidding his burial sets the entire central conflict of the city in motion.

Eteokles is the deceased son of Oedipus who initially held the throne of Thebes. He refused to share power with his brother Polyneikes, sparking the civil war that led to their mutual destruction. He is honored by the current administration with full burial rites.

Oedipus is the former ruler of Thebes whose past transgressions brought a heavy curse upon his family. Though he is dead before the play begins, the consequences of his actions continue to shape the lives and predetermined fates of his children.

Eurydike is the wife of King Kreon and the queen of Thebes. She resides within the royal house and relies on others to bring her news of the unfolding political and familial crises occurring outside the palace doors.