The Tragic Flaw of Creon in Antigone

Thesis Statement

“Creon displays the image of a 'tragic hero' on account of the errors he has made.”

Introduction

Antigone, which was written by Sophocles, is possibly the first written play that still exists today. There is much argument among who the 'tragic hero' is in the play. Some people say Antogone, some say Creon, others even say Heamon but actually Creon displays all of the characteristics of a 'tragic hero'.

Discussion

"I will go, just as I am. Come, servants, all of you; take axes in your hands; away with you to place you see, there. For my part, since my intention is so changed, as I bound her myself, myself will free her"(1175-1180).

These lines display how he altered his impulsive conclusion, but regrettably was too late. He is compelled to reside, understanding that three persons are dead because of his ignorance. Self-pride is the tragic flaw that Creon faces in this story. (Segal 120-186) Creon is stubborn and does not want to compromise. Due to his swamping power of dignity, he makes decimation drop upon him. His downfall arrives from trying to be just and right by enforcing the law. Since he acted the way he thought was right, he ultimately suffered a tragedy.

According to Aristotle, quoted in McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of World Drama, Creon fits the image of a 'tragic hero' "A man who is not eminently good and just, yet whose misfortune is brought about not by purpose, but by some error or frailty. He must be one who is highly renowned and prosperous".(Steiner 75-158) Creon's tragic flaw causes the deaths of both his wife and son. This is because he displays so much ignorance in every conclusion he makes. Even if his conclusions are incorrect he will not correct them, because he is the ...