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What does paean foreshadow in Antigone?

The paean, a celebratory song of praise, sung by the chorus at the beginning of Sophocles' *Antigone* doesn't directly foreshadow specific events within the play. However, it does set a tone and introduce thematic elements that are crucial to understanding the unfolding tragedy:

* The Power of Divine Law: The paean praises the victory of Thebes against the Argives, emphasizing the role of the gods and their divine justice. This highlights the central conflict of the play: the clash between human law (Creon's decree) and divine law (the burial of Polynices).

* Hubris and Fate: The chorus's celebratory tone underscores the dangers of pride and overconfidence, which are central to the tragedy. Creon's subsequent actions, driven by pride and a disregard for divine law, ultimately lead to his downfall.

* The Inevitability of Tragedy: Despite the initial joy and triumph, the paean also contains a sense of foreboding. The chorus acknowledges that even victory can be fleeting, hinting at the tragic consequences that will soon unfold.

Therefore, the paean in *Antigone* doesn't explicitly foreshadow specific events, but it establishes the thematic groundwork for the play's core conflicts: the conflict between human and divine law, the dangers of pride, and the inevitability of tragedy.

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