What does Ismene's reluctance to help Antigone suggest about her character?

Ismene's reluctance to help Antigone highlights her character as submissive and fearful of authority. Throughout the play, Ismene represents the voice of caution and conformity. Her hesitation to defy King Creon’s edict against burying their brother Polyneices illustrates her fears regarding the consequences of rebellion and her desire to adhere to societal expectations. This fear manifests as a strong aversion to acting against the law, showcasing her belief that obedience to authority is paramount.

In contrast, Antigone's determination to honor their brother's memory, regardless of the edict, reflects a stark divergence in their values. Ismene's cautious demeanor places her in a position of waiting and compliance rather than one of action, making her character emblematic of the tension between individual moral conviction and social obedience in the play.