Sophocles was born in 496 BC at Colonus village near Athens, Greece. He grew up in a wealthy family, whose father was a manufacturer of armour. He received well-rounded education, from poetry, music, dancing, to gymnastics. His wealthy and educational background prepared him to be a leader in many aspects of public life. He was an active member of the government and a major influence on Greek arts.

Sophocles was one of the most famous playwrights of classical Athens’ tragedy. He became a success in the golden age of drama for Greece in the fifth century BC. During his lifetime, he wrote more than 120 plays, although only seven complete tragedies remained. He was the most celebrated playwright who competed in more than 30 dramatic competition at the Festival of Dionysus. He won 18 times, and he always won higher than the second place every time. 

Antigone is of the most famous tragedies of Sophocles which still remains today. In Antigone, Sophocles raises the concerns of conflict between civic versus personal loyalties and religious mores.