Theme Of Power And Authority In Antigone

Whether the setting is the twenty-first century or the years prior to the common era, rulers in any society are known to be holders of power who perform justified actions that are beneficial to the state and its citizens. While trying to do what is right, even the fairest leaders are at risk of abusing their supremacy and causing harm. Sophocles explains that power does not affect the man who holds it; instead, the man who holds power and authority has the chance to affect the lives of others. He does not clarify whether this supremacy has a positive or negative effect on others, mostly because this part is up for interpretation. Some leaders bring their nations to success and victory, while others take a turn for the worst, gain hubris, and lead their country to its downfall.

Sophocles’ characterization of Creon in Antigone displays this theme, revealing how a ruler’s lust for power puts them at risk of missing out on ordinary relationships, becoming arrogant, or abusing their authority and causing harm to the citizens.
Creon’s oppressive traits in the play show how megalomaniac traits cause individuals to miss out on normal human ordeals such as friendships. In the beginning of the play, Creon advises the chorus that Polyneices is not to be given an honorable burial under any circumstances. He tells them that all men who see their country “headed for ruin… should not be afraid to speak out plainly,” but they must still be careful because “friends made at the risk of wrecking [the] Ship are not real friends at all” (scene 1). Creon’s selfish features cause him to think that it is not worthwhile for individuals to acquaint themselves with people who may jeopardize the stability of the government. His desire to be higher in rank, status, or dominance leads him to overuse the sovereignty that he holds and to not focus on other, more important things. True friendships are highly desirable, but Creon’s only motive of maintaining a forceful and strong government and military doesn’t allow him to take part in healthy, loyal friendships.
Creon’s despotic traits throughout Antigone illustrate the idea that a strong desire for control eventually becomes dangerous. While Haimon is trying to negotiate lifting Antigone’s death sentence, Creon fails to listen to him. Instead, he shouts, “my voice is the one voice giving orders in this city!” (scene 3).