One of Antigone's conflicts is the struggle between men and women. Ismene tells Antigone that from birth, women were “not born to compete with men” (75), showing women's obedience and passivity. In the same passage Ismene says, “we are subaltern, ruled by stronger hands” (76), a representation of the aggressive and strong “stronger hands” of men who dominate women and treat them as second-class citizens. The only woman in Thebes who wishes to free herself from these chains is Antigone, who opposes Ismene's passivity by urging her to “submit to this” (77) and defy Creon by burying Polyneices. By breaking Creon's edict, Antigone challenges the traditional gender roles played by women and men. How does the theme of gender in Antigone demonstrate the passion and choices behind Antigone and Ismene's decisions? Ismene believes that women are "subject" (76) and not "in contention with men" (76) because she knows that men will always control society. This view of men's dominance over women depicts Ismene as submissive to males while being afraid of men's authority. Ismene is unable to have control over her destiny and decisions because she is afraid of men's power over women, which leads her to refuse to bury Polyneices. Later in the play, Ismene questions Creon's judgment by saying "would you kill your son's bride?" (641) which indicates that he is now aware that women should have a voice and power in society. Her new understanding of Antigone's message gives her the strength to question Creon, while also highlighting his cruelty. Ismene's original belief to "submit to this" (77) and to be a true Greek girl ultimately transforms into becoming a supporter of Antigone. Her transformation challenges the authority of men, the opposite of what she believed. Antigone believes that a woman should be fearless and strong, even at the risk of challenging the authority of men. When he suggests burying Polyneices, Ismene replies: “we were not born to compete with men”. (75) Antigone's response, “that death will be a glory” (86), does not directly address gender issues, but expresses her anger at Ismene's passivity. After Polynices' burial, Antigone defiantly states, “I did it. I deny nothing,” as she is questioned by Creon (492) and then comments that she “was not ashamed for a moment, of not honoring my brother.” (572-3) Antigone's gallant speech and her defiance of traditional gender identities boldly display her revolutionary desire for gender equality.