Antigone

In Ancient Greece, new ideals surfaced as answers to life's complicated questions. These new beliefs were centered on the expanding field of science. Man was focused on more than the Gods or heavenly concerns. A government that was ruled by the people was suggested as opposed to a monarchy that had existed for many years. Freedom of religion was encouraged in city-states. These new ideals, though good in intentions, often conflicted with each other creating complex moral dilemmas. Antigone and Creon battle an idealistic war illustrating the conflict existing in the Greek ideals. They both based their actions on their beliefs of what is right and wrong. The conflict arose when the ideals that backed up their actions clashed with each other, making it a contradiction between morals. Antigone's side of the conflict held a much more heavenly approach, as opposed to the everyday road that Creon chose to follow.

Antigone was born full of superiority and courage, yet leaves the world as a conquered celebrity. She respects her family regardless of what has happened in the past and always seems to be loyal towards her brothers, as well as her sister. Antigone feels as though long-lasting by the laws of the gods, is value to follow. This theory gradually affects her actions and behavior towards Creon. Antigone chooses to sacrifice herself to give her brother honor and respect. By giving him a burial, she is setting his soul at rest so it may continue into death peacefully. Yet, she is digging her grave with her own hands. By burying Polynices, Antigone practically hands her life over to Creon, to use as he wishes, because the punishment for defying his orders is death. However, Antigone does not complain. She is proud to die for something she believes in. The tragic flaw of Antigone leads to many lamenting events in the play. The way she poses her characteristics in such as being stubborn and raggedness portrays her flaw in the play. Antigone attempts to challenge Creon's love for power and accepts the punishment given to her. She bows to death because she is aware that she has done a good deed and she will inhale her last breath in honor. Whether Creon thinks of her as a traitor or not, Antigone knew the gods would reserve their judgment in favor of her. She never once regrets burying her brother, which makes her character admirable.

This open threat still has no effect on Creon's decision towards Antigone's punishment. Though he recalls his promise to the people, it seems as if he is completey blinded by his love for power. Creon absolutely isolates himself from the rest of the world and believes himself as being right all the time despite the circumstances. He strongly believes in a powerful kingdom and feels that everyone should stay by his rules as a king. This reveals him to be a self centered noble who thinks quite highly of himself. Creon later regrets what he has done to his innocent niece. However, this sudden change of heart came about when Teiresias explained what would happen to him and his reputation if he did not undo his flaw. All