Why does Creon change his mind? Why Did Antigone Kill Herself? - Ancient Literature From the creators of SparkNotes, something better. He proclaims that while the body of Eteocles will be buried with dignity, the corpse of Polyneices will be left to rot on the field of battle. Teachers and parents! The basic plot of Antigone is that there is a civil war in Thebes between two families who want to rule it. After listening to his father rail against Antigone, Haemon presents several lines of reasoning. He decides against her death by isolation and starvation. According to Teiresias, what is the "new calamity" that Creon has brought to Thebes? While the audience may feel some relief at Creons words, his admission is far too late to accomplish any real good. You can view our. What is the meaning of the second choral Ode in Antigone by Sophocles? Definitions and examples of 136 literary terms and devices. Why did King Creon want to kill Polyneices? Haemon and Antigone have died because they both committed suicide. When Creon is talking to Teiresias , he thinks that he is being paid off. The chorus says "When the laws are kept, how proudly his city stands! Haemon begins by declaring his allegience to his father (always a good idea when asking Dad for a big favor): Father, I am yours, and as you have me, you guide the best course for me to follow. Anyone who attempts to honor Polyneices's body with burial will be sentenced to death. Whoever thinks that he alone possesses intelligence. Ismene is frightened, both of, plead with Antigone, but Antigone only grows angrier with her and more determined to defy, sentry enters. Get Annual Plans at a discount when you buy 2 or more! His throne even robs him of his mourning, the king and his pace sadly shuttling off to a cabinet meeting after the announcement of the family's deaths. Creon believes in the rule of law and the authority of the state above all else. Discount, Discount Code SparkNotes Plus subscription is $4.99/month or $24.99/year as selected above. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Creon once again reveals his stubborn, authoritative personality by saying that his voice is the only one that matters in the city. When Teiresias informs Creon of the sign at Polyneices' corpse, Creon changes his mind. Haemon approaches his father in a suitably respectful manner; he is not attempting to challenge Creon's authority as king. c) By punishing Antigone, who has obeyed the divine obligation of burying the dead, Creon is placing his entire kingdom at risk: Latest answer posted October 03, 2017 at 4:09:30 PM. Accessed 1 May 2023. Who are the experts?Our certified Educators are real professors, teachers, and scholars who use their academic expertise to tackle your toughest questions. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Teiresias does not persuade Creon to change his mind in "Antigone" by Sophocles (495 B.C.E. Latest answer posted November 21, 2019 at 7:02:15 AM. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Haemon leaves, declaring that Creon will never see him again. Purchasing You'll also get updates on new titles we publish and the ability to save highlights and notes. Summary and Analysis: Antigone Lines 701-878. This line becomes both ironic and iconic in the trilogy as it reflects a common theme woven throughout the three plays: Stubbornness brings disaster. You'll be able to access your notes and highlights, make requests, and get updates on new titles. Save over 50% with a SparkNotes PLUS Annual Plan! Haemon proceeds to display his affection and concern for his father by encouraging him to listen to other reasonable people, so he will not make a terrible decision.