Antigone

Sophocles’ Antigone presents the demise of the Theban ruler, Creon, elicited by his pride and failure to value moral ethics over governing law. The narrative positions the newly appointed ruler in an awkward predicament in which he must take action against Antigone, his son’s fiancé, for defying his decree to leave the body of the Theban traitor Polyneices, Antigone’s brother, unburied. The following textual analysis will focus on the discussion between Creon and his son, Haemon, upon being informed of his fiancés’ insubordination toward her King. Haemon respectfully enters the scene and humbly attempts to persuade his father not to take action against his fiancé. The discussion swiftly changes, as it becomes apparent that Haemon does not agree with his father’s decision, ultimately leading to Haemon’s death. The tone of the dialogue between the two characters takes a gruesome turn, as the values of both characters become increasingly apparent.

The argument begins with Haemon behaving obsequiously in attempt to persuade his father to not take action against his fiancé. “[Father] keep me straight with your judgment, which I shall ever follow.” Initially, Haemon and Creon’s relationship is that of a typical father and son, Haemon respects his father’s authority as both king and patriarch. Creon acknowledges his son’s commitment to him and the crown as he proceeds in an extended denunciation against disobedience and treachery of the law. Creon’s response to his son’s greeting reveals his value for the law and the need for action if and when the kingdom’s laws have been broken. Haemon vigilantly explains to his father that his decision does not reflect the sentiment expressed by Theban people when he says, “in the dark corners [of your kingdom] the whole town is grieving for this girl” (692-693), which paints a story rich in pathos of a whole city mourning. Haemon dutifully explains that his father’s welfare is his greatest concern, but that he, Creon, must not be...