Conflicts between the “old” and “new” in the works of Sophocles: an educational proposal for the formation of individuals accountable for their acts - DOI: 10.4025/actascihumansoc.v30i1.5100

Abstract

Even during the Classical Period (6^th-5^th centuries BC), at the peak of their artistic and intellectual achievements, Greeks were immersed in a state of conflict owing to profound changes within society. In spite of changes in the manner of living and in the organization and administration of society, the average Greek citizen failed to completely break away from the past. Traces of the ancient gentilic community were still remained in the polis in the way of thinking and living. Beliefs in the ancient religion did not apply to the new social organization and destabilized the community. When Sophocles perceived the conflict between the old secular order and the new social organization of the polis, he reflected in his literary works on the manner the Greek citizen could live within the contemporary city-state. The representations of conflicts between father and son, the new and the old were thus featured in his plays. The playwright imagined a man who, through knowledge, tried to solve the conflicts experienced, brought forth by a submission to ancient religion and belief in fate. This new man was accountable for his acts and his future.