Antigone Research Paper

Antigone Revised Essay As one of Sophocles’s most well known works, Antigone shows the complicated dynamics that correspond to the deaths of two brothers and enemies. Creon, the uncle of the two, faces great internal struggle when dealing with the results of their deaths and burials. In this play, Creon’s mind is conflicted in his struggle with the forces of pride and humility, based on the decisions of being right and doing the right thing when faced with the conflicting roles of power. Creon’s most noticeable character flaw is his pride, as his stubborn nature insists on his ruling being the strict law of the land. As the new king, Creon asserts his new power by enacting a law to not bury Polyneices, and refuses to nullify it,

As the king of Thebes, and the uncle and father-in-law-to-be of Antigone, it would be an understatement to say that he has a conflict of interest. Because of these confusing relationships as a family member, Creon does not truly want to kill his niece, as evident by his hands-off approach to her attempted murder. This presents the argument that Creon’s family obligations muddle his duties as the king. Creon, faced with doing what is best for his family or what is best for himself, contributes to his internal conflict of following the rules that he enacted in contrast with justice. This gives purpose to Antigone by expressing one of Sophocles’s overarching ideas prevalent in his works. Creon also faces internal conflict in his decision not to bury Polyneices, as it offends and disrespects the gods. During a time of intense beliefs, religion was a big part of Theban life. Therefore, appropriate measures were taken to ensure the gods do not curse you for being disrespectful. This puts Creon in a difficult situation, as he must decide on whether following his own laws of the state or laws based on religion is the better course to take. This struggle incorporates the theme of justice and power, especially in giving different perspectives on the same scenario, which helps to provide insight into the “political” message of Antigone. Creon’s internal conflicting force also comes from humility, in admitting that even he can be wrong. This comes from the chorus, who represents the audience and the people of Thebes, who plead with Creon to do the right thing and release Antigone. This opposing force in Creon forces him to be humble even as the king, and prevents him from being to prideful by admitting his faults and releasing Antigone. The chorus’ role in Creon’s internal conflict also forces him to do the right thing, instead of being what he considers to be right. His conflicting