Leadership in Antigone
Uploaded by spootyhead on Mar 20, 2007
Leadership in Antigone
In the story “Antigone” by Sophocles, Creon’s regard for the laws of the city causes him to abandon all other beliefs. He feels that all should obey the laws set forth by him, even if moral or religious beliefs interfere with his laws and beliefs. Creon’s idea of a good leader of country is one who obtains obedience for his beliefs from all of the people of the land.
Creon, being a new king, wants to prove his abilities as king. He is being harsh, so the people of Thebes do not take him for an easy king but rather fear him if they do not obey his laws. Creon states, “As I see it, whoever assumes the task, the awesome task of setting the city’s course, and refuses to adopt the soundest policies but fearing someone, keeps his lips locked tight, and he’s utterly worthless” (lines 198-202). This shows that Creon feels a good leader should be powerful and set laws in order to be respected. Creon feels that if someone dishonors the city in which he rules that they must be punished, and if he does not punish those who dishonor or disobey him people will take him for granted and think he is a weak king. Creon also wants to be respected and feared as a king because this will give him more power. He does not want to be a bad king, using his power for evil things, but instead, he wants to be seen as strong and great king. However, in order to be a strong king, Creon feels he must be strict and firm in his decisions in order to make Thebes a great city.
An example of Creon’s idea of a good leader is seen in the conflict he has with Antigone. Creon has a very strong opinion about the laws of the city and the laws passed by him. His method of enforcing them is very strict. One example of his firmness is seen when Creon states, “See that you never side with those who break my orders” (line 245). He orders that Polynices will not be buried because of his dishonor for attacking Thebes and betraying Creon and the people of Thebes. Creon also orderes that anyone caught burying him will be killed for disobeying his order. Anitgone’s beliefs are just the opposite of Creon’s because she believes...