Antigone

Creons Persistence.

"Is that so? Now by heaven, I promise you, you'll pay-- taunting, insulting me! Bring her out, that hateful-- she will die now, here, in front of his (Haemon) eyes, beside her groom!
According to this section above, found on page 673, lines 852-854, Creon is not only very persistent in killing Antigone because his son Haemon, is defender her, therefore frustrating the King; his father is also persistent because of the Greek values placed on such an offense done by Antigone.
The reason it was so offensive is because Antigone's brother was known as a traitor. In the Greek culture only true hero's deserved a proper burial service. Creon is baffled that someone would not only go against his wishes but would actually honor a traitor. "The hero who came to burn their (the gods) temples ringed with pillars, their golden treasures-- scorch their hallowed earth and fling their laws to the wings. Exactly when did you last see the gods celebrating traitors?" Once Creon found out who actually did this proper, honorable burial service, He was vivid and that is why he was so furious and persistent to put Antigone to death. I do not believe that Antigone actually regrets her specific actions because on page 676 she states, "But still I go, cherishing one good hope: my arrival may be dear to father... my loving brother, Eteocles-- When you died I washed you with my hands, I dressed you all... Nevertheless I honored you-- decent will admit it--well wisely too." She does not regret giving her beloved brother a proper, honorable burial service. Even though she isnt remorseful, she is very frightened and is in despair knowing she and her fiance will never be able to get married.

Sophocles View

One of the main themes within this peice that is heavily stressed is loyalty and possibly, the lack there of. Loyalty within the family is of great importance to Antigone. She is led to her tomb with her head held high knowing she honored her brother and made her parents proud. Because Antigone ended the way it did, Creon is great despair, I believe that Sophocles did favor a particular side. Antigone, although also in great despair, was led to her tomb with dignity for she herself did what she believed was right and moral. As for Creon, He was a King, who only truely did as He pleased. He didnt even take into consideration his son and his love for Antigone. Therefore, I think that Sophocles sided with Antigone and this possibly means that Sophocles himself values the strength individuals have. He respects those who are willing to go against the waters and fight for what they believe in and feel convicted about even though the odds are all against you!