The document discusses the character of Ismene in Sophocles' play Antigone. Ismene serves as a foil to her sister Antigone, who defiantly breaks the law to bury their brother Polynices. Ismene adheres to the law and gender norms of their time by obeying King Creon's decree. However, when brought before Creon, Ismene confesses to helping Antigone, showing her loyalty to her sister though she did not actually assist in the burial. The document analyzes how Ismene highlights and accentuates Antigone's radical behavior by serving as a more conventional female character.