Table of ContentsCreon's PrideAntigone's PrideReactions of Other CharactersConclusionOne of the most prevalent themes in Sophocles' tragedy Antigone is the concept of pride. Hubris, a term from ancient Greek literature, refers to 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, notably Creon and Antigone. Through their arrogant behavior, Sophocles highlights the destructive nature of excessive pride and the importance of recognizing and tempering one's own arrogance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Creon's PrideCreon, the king of Thebes, is a great example of pride in the play. After his nephews, Eteocles and Polynices, died in a battle for the throne, he issued a decree that Polyneices, who fought against Thebes, would not be buried. Creon's decision is motivated by his pride as a leader, convinced that his authority must be maintained at all costs. He states: “Whoever disobeys in the slightest will die, his fate is sealed: he will be stoned to death within the walls of the city” (Sophocles 222). This proclamation shows his arrogance and disregard for the laws of the gods, as well as his belief that his own will is superior to divine authority. Creon's pride is even more evident in his refusal to heed the warnings of his son, Haemon, and the blind prophet. , Tiresias. The two individuals advise Creon to reconsider his decision and highlight the consequences of his acts of pride. Haemon, in a desperate appeal to his father, warns him: “Dead, she is dead. I saw the shrouds, the newly dug grave, the doomed girl” (Sophocles 250). Despite these warnings, Creon remains steadfast in his belief that he knows best, rejecting the wisdom of others and refusing to recognize his own fallibility. Antigone's Pride Antigone, the protagonist of the play, also demonstrates pride by defying 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 motivated by his own pride and his belief in the superiority of divine laws over human laws. Antigone boldly proclaims: “I do not think that your edict has such force that you, a mere mortal, can override the gods, the great unwritten and unshakable traditions” (Sophocles 225). His belief in his own righteousness blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions and leads to his tragic demise. Other Characters' Reactions In addition to the characters' hubris, Sophocles also explores the theme through the reactions of other characters. Ismene, Antigone's sister, serves as a foil to her arrogant behavior. At first, Ismene refuses to help bury Polyneices, fearing the consequences of defying Creon's decree. However, as the play progresses, she begins to question her own cowardice and eventually joins Antigone in her act of defiance. Ismene's change in attitude highlights the dangers of pride and the importance of recognizing and challenging one's own fears and limitations. Additionally, Antigone's refrain serves as a moral compass, offering commentary on the characters' actions and consequences. Through their songs and speeches, the chorus expresses their disapproval of Creon's arrogance, warning of the dangers of excessive pride. They declare: “The powerful words of the proud are entirely paid for by powerful blows of fate, and these blows will finally teach us the.