A King’s Collapse Essay Example

making laws." (Lines 198-201). This statement demonstrates Creon's belief that everyone knows him due to his role as the lawful ruler. However, despite being the king of Thebes, Creon possesses a tragic flaw like any other individual throughout history. Though many people, including Creon, may assert that they are flawless, it is merely a side effect of excessive pride, the tragic flaw of Creon. This excessive pride prevents him from seeking or accepting advice from anyone, especially women.

The text demonstrates Antigone's attempt to persuade Creon, to which he responds, "No woman's going to govern me- no, no- not while I'm still alive." (L 599-600) This not only showcases his excessive pride but also his complete lack of respect for women. It is evident that Creon's communication approach was not limited to just women, as he had the same level of disregard for everyone else as well. This is illustrated when the chorus leader tries to reason with him and ultimately exclaims, "Old man you're like archers shooting at me." (L 1149) Consequently, it can be inferred that Creon possessed an abundance of pride as well as a persistent and stubborn nature.

Despite being the King of Thebes and filled with excessive pride, Creon possessed the autonomy to make his own choices. Among these decisions was the issuance of a proclamation that ultimately led to Antigone's tragic conclusion. Creon ensured that everyone knew about the proclamation and the severe consequences they would face for defying it. Ismene stressed the gravity of the situation by stating that anyone who disobeyed would be publicly stoned to death. This reveals how Creon had authority in determining

punishments for those who betrayed him by disregarding his proclamation. Furthermore, Creon had the power to determine whom he would forgive and whom he would punish. He firmly asserted that an enemy could never become a friend, even in death, displaying his lack of mercy towards traitors regardless of their relationship with him. Ultimately, Creon's esteemed position, tragic flaw, and freedom in decision-making all contribute to his excessive punishment.

Excessive punishment can take many forms, but in Antigone, Creon's excessive punishment is not death. Instead, Creon's excessive punishment for his actions is the loss of his son and wife. Despite changing his mind and attempting to fix his mistakes, Creon still ends up losing his loved ones. He acknowledges his intention to give up and not fight against the necessity, showing his willingness to spare Antigone's life and bury Polyneices. However, his change of heart comes too late to prevent any deaths. Ultimately, Creon admits that he unintentionally caused the deaths of his son and wife, feeling utterly useless. This acknowledgment underscores that losing his family is Creon's form of excessive punishment.

Creon's increased awareness and realization of the consequences of his actions and excessive punishment are evident. He acknowledges that he should not have been so selfish and stubborn. Creon admits that he alone is guilty and responsible for the deaths of his son and wife. He understands that his foolish mistakes led to their suicides. His regret is expressed as he laments the profanity of his plans and acknowledges that his son's death was not due to foolishness but his own. Creon recognizes that he made mistakes that one would expect

from someone inexperienced.

The combination of noble stature, tragic flaw, free choice, excessive punishment, and increased awareness gives rise to the formation of a tragic hero. Each person's interpretation of a tragic event is shaped by their own experiences and observations. The severity of the event often influences one's definition of tragedy. Likewise, when determining the characteristics that define a tragic hero, a similar process takes place.

The precise description of a tragic hero includes five components: noble stature, a tragic flaw, free choice, excessive punishment, and increased awareness. In the tragic play Antigone, Creon can be viewed as an ideal illustration of a tragic hero. While some may argue that the real focus of the play is on Antigone, it is true that she lacks one crucial element. Unlike Antigone, Creon possesses the attribute of increased awareness which ultimately establishes him as the tragic hero.