Creon's decision to outlaw Polyneices's burial sets the stage for the tragedy that ensues. He regards Polyneices as an enemy of Thebes and sees no reason to honor his death. He remains dedicated to the decree in opposition to convincing arguments from Antigone, Haemon, and Teiresias.

The first and most passionate challenge brought against Creaon's edict comes from Antigone. Her blatant disregard of his orders stun Creon. He holds fast in his arrogance despite Atigone's protest:

Antigone: It was not Zeus who published this decree, / Nor have the Powers who

rule among the dead / Imposed such laws as this upon mankind; Nor could I think that a decree of yours - / A man - could override the laws of Heaven. (ll. 450-454)

Creon ignores the insight of her comment and likens Antigone to nothing more than a wild horse and a slave. (ll. 477-479) By disregarding her observation

It is not until his confrontation with Teiresias that Creon realizes how blind he has been to what is going on around him. When they first converse, Creon acknowledges the seer's wisdom. However, as soon as Teiresias brings Creon's follies to light, the King accuses the seer of dishonesty and corruption:

Haemon: The city mourns this girl. 'No other woman', / So they are saying, 'so

shares in the sin. / 'Twas I dealt the blow. This is the truth, my friends. / Away, take me away, far from the sight of men! / My life now is death. Lead me away form here. (ll. 1318-1322)

After forecasting the world of terror which will soon envelope Creon, Teiresias leaves. The King is suddenly unsure of himself. The seer's words are terrifying enough to force him to rescind his edict. Creon's fears are affirmed by the Chorus which advises him to release Antigone and bury Polyneices.

Creon's will is crushed with the discovery of what his actions have done. First, he finds both Antigone and Haemon, dead by their own hands, in each others arms. While grieving for his son, the news arrives that his wife has also taken her own life. Here, finally, the King makes the transformation of a tragic hero:

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Approximate Word count = 1173
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)