The dilemmatic nature of the argument and the contrast which is created by the personas of Creon and Antigone, characters of the famous Greek myth about Oedipus, are particularly interesting for their potential for interpretation. The narrative is exceptional for its propagation of the ideals held by Antigone and the messages about the inevitable nature of fate. This classic tale and, in particular, the questions that it raises remain relevant as familial values are speedily losing their popularity among the younger generation.
The character of Creon is a distinct example of an individual with an idea of power and his own potential. This statement is partially true, as the characters are, indeed, juxtaposed to one another, and thus, their characteristics are exaggerated. This is especially traceable in the pair of Creon and Antigone. Both Creon and Antigone stand for a set core of principles, by which the distinction is made between their roles in the narrative – Creon stands for egotism, and Antigone clearly emphasizes familial values. These familial inclinations of Antigone, in particular, make her a very likeable character. A young woman for whom an honorable death ceremony for her brother is more important than her own life – and for that, Antigone deserves immense respect and it is what the author personally agrees with.
In Antigone, Creon appears as a strong leader, whose leadership becomes borderline tyrannical at vital points in the story. Such tendencies are fueled by the desire to prove himself – the inclination that arouses another very important theme of this myth – the prevalence of human laws over the divine law. Creon says to his son, “Do you want me to show myself weak before the people — or to break my sworn word?”, continuing that if he allows even for small “weakness”, he will not be respected as a ruler (Sophocles 520). Clearly, his strong adherence to the illegitimacy of Antigone’s actions stems not from a genuine belief that her behavior was somehow immoral – but directly from his self-assurance as a lawmaker. Perhaps unknowingly, he exposes himself as quite egocentric, expressing that “whoever is chosen to govern should be obeyed — just and unjust” (Sophocles 525). Moreover, he shows no signs of understanding his own son – willing to judge his son’s bride with full severity, as if blind to his suffering. In particular, such a stance – in which Creon exhibits himself as a blindly ambitious and avaricious person whom it becomes extremely hard to stand by.
On the contrary, Antigone represents – and upholds – completely different values that prove to be much more sincere than those of Creon’s. Mainly, Antigone acts out of a very emotional state, which in turn, is produced by her fervent belief in the divine order – “the final Justice that rules the world makes no such laws” as does the king (Sophocles 360). Her principled position on the matter is as concrete as Creon’s decision to punish her publicly in order to reinforce his leadership – however, Antigone’s ideals are far superior to his.
The woman’s desire to bury her brother properly arises from her very strong subconscious belief in the integral goodness of familial values, which is not specifically just another type of law – but the traditions that hold sacred meaning. Her reason is not supported by a rigid system, like the one Creon, by the right of kingship, improvised when judging Antigone. Instead, she acts out of a place of inherently knowing – and willing to die for her principles, with this idea encapsulated in these simple words, “I knew I must die” (Sophocles 365). She speaks of her death as if it is the least of her concerns, “the Death of mine is of no importance” (Sophocles, 370). One’s family is deeply ingrained in one’s identity, and it is important to stay principled when protecting them, even if it is already “too late.”
While Antigone’s bravery and selflessness are enough to admire her deed, there is also a third principle that justifies it. It is closely related to the idea that Antigone bases her stance upon the idea of intuitive righteousness – the sincere familial love she has for her deceased brothers. From here, it becomes clear that this righteousness, this natural law, is preserved and transmitted as a tradition. In a sense, the tradition’s counterpart becomes a fleeting law set up by one ruler. The tradition holds the wisdom and experience of hundreds of generations and thus holds immense value and meaning. Perhaps, she seems detached and unaffected by the fate Creon decides for her – Antigone’s act abides by the timeless rules of tradition, of natural law.
Thus, for the reasons established above, Antigone’s actions can be considered quite honorable, as they are fueled by her innermost desire to uphold her principles in regard to her family, as she believes family to be one of the most important things in a person’s life. She is compassionate, principled, and altruistic – while not only respecting the traditions but being fully conscious of the consequences. Antigone rises against the tyranny of a one man’s law, and personally, I consider this to be an act of bravery that deserves respect and appreciation. My personal values coincide with Antigone’s to a significant degree, and therefore, I support her act of selflessness and staying true to her principles in the face of adversity.