Moral Values In Antigone

In the classic play Antigone by Sophocles, Creon and Antigone herself create a contrast of cultural values in ancient Greece. Through the deaths of her brothers, the conflict of these two views begins, challenging the basis of ancient Greek culture and its many nuances. While Creon values the more modern approach of morality in context of the situation as a whole, Antigone values the approach of morality in more traditional senses by following familial ties as well as what the gods would find honorable or dishonorable. Creon rules over Thebes, using his moral values as a guide, which stray from the traditional or common values in a self-fulfilling way. He decrees Polyneices to be dishonorable in the attack of Thebes, and for this, his dead

Creon leads through secular morality, one not common of his time, and in a way that is opposite of the traditional and common values Antigone embodies, religion and family loyalty. Creon is the example of the extremist viewpoint, disregarding others for his own self-interest, while Antigone is an example of foolish devotion, choosing death rather than allow her family any suffering. Sophocles critiques both standpoints in relation to one another, and through the contrast of time from its setting to when it is written. Ancient Greece was ruled by Kings and Queens, while Sophocles’ time was ruled by a democracy. Sophocles presents a dilemma wherein both sides are correct from their standpoint; Creon politically and Antigone emotionally. The audience must learn from both sides, they must realize that extremes may work for a bit, but everything comes to a stalemate when extremes are compared. Radical views cannot be afforded, especially if it costs the life of another human being. A more moderate way of thinking and acting must be considered and implemented. Antigone has stood the test of time and is still relevant to modern readers. The politics and cultural significance as well as the questions proposed are an important and ever-relevant topic, as so many are quick to judgement. Morality is a complex and nuanced thing, there is no truly correct morality, just as there is no truly wrong morality. Every side has an argument to be made, Creon and Antigone’s arguments are just two pieces of an infinite