Antigone

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Antigone

During the ancient years of Greece, new ideas came up that complicated life. These new beliefs came with the strong development of science, where individuals began to obtain new aspects of Gods. These new ideals often conflicted with one another creating complex moral dilemmas. In Antigone, Creon and Antigone battle a philosophical war dealing with the controversy of the Greek ethics. “Do what you believe is right.” This is a idiom universal to all, brought to our attention by parents, reinforced by teachers, and preached by leaders. But how does one define what is right? It is the impression that one should make decisions based upon what they deem morally appropriate within themselves. On one aspect there is Antigone, who pursues her self-righteous beliefs whole-heartedly and without reservation. On the other aspect you have Creon, who acts in response to what he believes is best for his city-state. Both characters are validated in their actions. Antigone’s support of her approach is evident in her refusal to abide by Creon’s edict no to bury her brother Polynice’s. Antigone’s aspect of the conflict held a much more heavenly approach, as opposed to the mundane road that Creon chose to follow.

Antigone’s belief is on that supports the Gods and the laws of heaven. Her reasoning is set by her belief that if someone is not given a proper burial, that in turn they would not be accepted into heaven. Antigone is a very religious person and acceptance of her brother by the Gods was very significant to her. She felt that, “It is the martial law our good Creon lays down for you and me—yes me, I tell you.“(lines 37-38) Creon’s order was personal to Antigone; his edict invaded her family life as well as the principles of the Gods. In her eyes, Creon betrayed the Gods by not allowing her to properly bury her brother Polynices. She believed that the burial was a religious ceremony, and Creon did not have the authority to deny Polynices that right.

Antigone understands that she will suffer personal torment if she does not carry out her proceedings (burying her brother). “But if I had let my own brother stay unburied I would have suffered all the pain I do not feel now. And if you decide what I did was foolish, you may be fool enough to convict me.

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