The Actions of the Tragic Hero, Creon in Antigone, a Play by Sophocles

Categories: Tragedy

Essay, Pages 2 (488 words)

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Antigone, a tragedy by Sophocles, delves into the character of King Creon, who serves as the tragic hero of the story. Despite his son's efforts to change his mind, Creon adamantly sticks to his decision to execute Antigone, setting off a series of events that ultimately lead to his downfall.

Throughout the play, Creon's reign as king highlights his impulsive nature, his demanding demeanor, and his obsession with power. These traits ultimately lead to his tragic end as he loses everything he holds dear.

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Creon's impulsive nature is evident in his swift and merciless sentencing of Antigone to death. He shows no mercy or compassion, declaring, "Like father, like daughter: both headstrong, deaf to reason! / She has never learned to yield" (1.ii.75-76). This lack of hesitation in condemning Antigone to death showcases Creon's impulsive decision-making as a ruler. Even when his son, Haimon, pleads with him to reconsider, Creon remains steadfast in his resolve, refusing to budge from his initial judgment.

This unwavering determination highlights Creon's impulsive and rash behavior, which ultimately leads to tragic consequences.

In addition to his impulsiveness, Creon's demanding nature is also a defining trait. From the moment he is introduced in the play, Creon exerts his authority and demands loyalty from those around him. He is quick to assert his dominance, even going as far as sentencing his son's future wife, Antigone, to death despite their familial ties. This uncompromising attitude showcases Creon's demanding and authoritarian personality, which alienates those closest to him and ultimately leads to his downfall.

Furthermore, Creon's obsession with power plays a significant role in his tragic fate. As king, Creon becomes consumed by the idea of maintaining order and control within his kingdom. This obsession clouds his judgment and leads him to make decisions that ultimately result in the deaths of his son and wife. His delusional belief in creating a perfect society blinds him to the consequences of his actions, ultimately leading to his own undoing.

As the play unfolds, Creon's tragic flaws become increasingly apparent, culminating in the loss of his loved ones and his own downfall. His impulsive nature, demanding demeanor, and obsession with power all contribute to his tragic hero status. Despite his initial bravado and arrogance, Creon ultimately faces the consequences of his actions and is forced to confront the devastating impact of his decisions.

In conclusion, Sophocles' Antigone presents King Creon as a tragic hero whose fatal flaws ultimately lead to his downfall. Through his impulsive decision-making, demanding personality, and obsession with power, Creon's character is fully realized as a complex and flawed individual. His journey from a powerful ruler to a broken and defeated man serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and hubris. Creon's tragic end serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of pride and arrogance, making him a truly compelling and tragic figure in the world of Greek tragedy.