IndexCreon's arroganceAntigone's arroganceReactions of other charactersConclusionOne of the most widespread themes in Sophocles' tragedy, Antigone, is the concept of arrogance. Hubris, a term from ancient Greek literature, refers to the excessive pride or arrogance that often leads to the downfall of a tragic hero. In Antigone this theme is explored through the actions and consequences of the main characters, particularly Creon and Antigone. Through their arrogant behavior, Sophocles highlights the destructive nature of excessive pride and the importance of recognizing and moderating one's arrogance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Arrogance of Creon Creon, the king of Thebes, is a great example of arrogance in the play. After the death of his nephews, Eteocles and Polyneices, in a battle for the throne, he proclaims a decree that Polyneices, who fought against Thebes, will be left unburied. Creon's decision is fueled by his pride as a ruler, believing that his authority must be defended at all costs. He states, “Whoever disobeys even in the slightest will die, his sentence is sealed: stoning to death within the city walls” (Sophocles 222). This proclamation shows his arrogance and contempt for the laws of the gods, as well as his belief that his own will is superior to divine authority. Creon's arrogance is further evident in his refusal to heed the warnings of his son, Haemon, and the blind prophet. , Tiresias. Both individuals advise Creon to reconsider his decision and point out the consequences of his proud actions. Haemon, in a desperate plea to his father, warns: "Death, she is dead. I have seen the torturous sheets, the freshly dug grave, the doomed girl" (Sophocles 250). Despite these warnings, Creon remains steadfast in his belief that he knows best, dismissing the wisdom of others and refusing to acknowledge his own fallibility. Antigone's ArroganceAntigone, the protagonist of the play, also displays arrogance through her defiance of Creon's decree. After the death of her brothers, she feels obligated to honor her family and the gods by burying Polyneices. His act of disobedience is driven by his pride and belief in the superiority of divine laws over human ones. Antigone boldly proclaims, “I do not believe that your edict has such strength that you, a mere mortal, could prevail over the gods, over the great unwritten and unshakable traditions” (Sophocles 225). Her belief in her own righteousness blinds her to the potential consequences of her actions and leads to her tragic end. Reactions of other characters In addition to the arrogance of the characters, Sophocles also explores the theme through the reactions of the other characters. Ismene, Antigone's sister, serves as a foil to her arrogant behavior. Initially, Ismene refuses to help bury Polyneices, fearing the consequences of violating Creon's decree. However, as the play progresses, he begins to question his own cowardice and eventually joins Antigone in her act of defiance. Ismene's change in attitude highlights the dangers of arrogance and the importance of recognizing and challenging one's fears and limitations. Furthermore, Antigone's chorus serves as a moral compass, offering commentary on the characters' actions and consequences. Through songs and speeches, the chorus expresses their disapproval of Creon's arrogance, warning against the dangers of excessive pride. They state: "The mighty words of the proud are paid in full with mighty blows of fate, and in the end those blows will teach us.