Tragedy In Sophocles Antigone

The definition of a tragedy in Greek writing is “a play dealing with tragic events and having an unhappy ending, especially one concerning the downfall of the main character”. Antigone, a play written by Sophocles is a tragedy of wicked justice and brave rebellion, a reflection of the mind. Each character represents a different facet of the human persona. Some hold onto their beliefs with pride and stubbornness that cuts deep within their heart without any consideration of others, some have balance, and others don’t speak up to ensure their safety. One character stands out among the rest to be an arrogant and tragic hero. This character is known as Creon the king of Thebes. In essence, Creon sits above all as the king, only to dwindle and fall …show more content…
Creon is determined not to change his attitude. “Do you want me to show myself weak before the people? Or to break my sworn word? No, and I will not. The woman dies. I suppose she’ll plead “family ties.” Well, let her. If I permit my own family to rebel, How shall I earn the world’s obedience?” (Line 518). In this quote Creon responds to his son Haimon’s brief words of support in light of the situation that has presented itself in Thebes. Though, Haimon is hurt Creon must keep order by killing Antigone even if she is his son’s fiancée. By punishing his own family it will show that even he chooses the side of the state. This way loyalty will remain in the city. Creon stands stubborn in this aspect even when family is involved. The words he uses are strong and powerful which indicate his disinterest in shifting or changing his mind on the matter at hand. By showing force he wants to believe the people won’t see him as a weak ruler or as a traitor to his own state. He even plays at words which will further reinforce his behavior by saying Antigone will plead family ties. This all tells us Creon is a man of conviction and he will stand his ground no matter the