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Antigone, which was written by Sophocles, is possibly the first written play that still exists today (www.imagi… 1). There is much controversy between who the ‘tragic hero’ is in the play. Some people say Antigone, some say Creon, others even say Heamon. I believe Creon displays all of the characteristics of a ‘tragic hero’. He receives compassion through the audience, yet recognizes his weaknesses, and his downfalls from his own self-pride, stubbornness, and controlling demands. He is the true protagonist.
Though the audience notices how villainous Creon is, they still express sympathy towards him. They realize that he has brought all of his problems on himself and should have been more open-minded, but think no one should have to go through what he has. They understand how the warrior king Creon felt when he notices his son is love struck. The audience also expresses pity towards him because Antigone is a murderer and understands why he is upset. Creon’s noble quality is his caring for Antigone and Ismene when their father was persecuted.
Creon is a very authoritative person and demands control of others. When talking to the Chorus, Creon does not ask them to agree wit
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King Creon noticed that he had a weakness in which he tries to correct but is too late. Haemon informs his father of the reputation he has created for himself. Through this quote the reader realizes that Creon wants obedience in everything he decides even if he is at fault. A most unwelcome fate has leaped upon me” (1405-1408).
“There is nothing worse than disobedience to authority” (723-724). Since he acted the way he thought was right, he ultimately suffered a tragedy.
Creon presumes that he is the one and only perfect ruler for Thebes. After the death of his wife he acknowledges his great mistakes in being prideful and realizes how his pride has caused suffering. Consequently, the Chorus suggests that the Gods may have committed the act.
Creon is under the impression that he is always correct in his judgments and his beliefs. It is apparent that Creon is very dominating and wants to be in control. His greatest error was that he truly believed that Polynices was a traitor, which consequently forced him to issue a decree, forbidding Polynices a proper burial. “That will teach you in the days to come from what you may draw profit […], ill-gotten gains ruin more than they save” (342-346). The pains men suffer
are pains indeed” (1337-1342).
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