Creon Character Analysis

The play, Antigone, demonstrates the consequences that adamant leaders face when they are not open to criticism and discussion. The play tries to teach people that in order to be a good leader, you cannot be so condescending to believe that you are brilliant and infallible in your judgement. Creon exhibits these negative qualities when he overestimates his power. He sincerely believes that he is at the level of the gods. Although, being confident is a good trait to possess as a leader; leaders cannot solve problems by being bold. Qualities such as being open to discussion, different opinions, and compromise are advantageous characteristics when trying to dissolve a conflict. When Creon argues with Antigone, he is unable to reason with Antigone. Instead, Creon derides Antigone by saying, “Listen, if she’s not punished for taking the upper hand, then I am not a man. She would be a man…die for their crime” (Lines 484-489). Creon is unable to discuss alternatives with Antigone; rather, he mocks the entire female race and immediately gives Antigone a death sentence. When the Chorus tells Creon “Sir, you

Especially Tiresias, who tells Creon “It’s common knowledge, any human being can go wrong. But even when he does, a man may still succeed: He may have his share of luck and good advice but only if he’s willing to bend and find a cure for the trouble he’s caused” (Lines 1024-1028). Tiresias advises Creon to admit his wrongdoings and attempt to fix them. Again, Creon views this as a jab at his authority. Creon rejects Tiresias’s advice, and in turn slanders him by saying, “You people keep shooting arrows at me…I have a lot of experience with soothsayers…if you want to turn a profit, speculate in gold from India” (Lines 1033-1037). Creon does not try to reason with Tiresias, rather he mocks Tiresias and his job. Creon is so presumptuous to believe that only his judgements are