The Mistake of Creon According to Teiresias in Antigone
In the Greek tragedy “Antigone” by Sophocles, the blind prophet Teiresias plays a crucial role in warning the ruler of Thebes, Creon, about the grave mistake he has made. Teiresias, through his prophetic abilities, reveals the consequences of Creon’s actions and provides a dire warning about the wrath of the gods. This article explores the mistake that Teiresias identifies and its implications for Creon and the city of Thebes.
Refusal to Bury Polynices: Violating Divine Laws
One of the primary mistakes that Teiresias accuses Creon of is his refusal to grant a proper burial to Polynices, the brother of Antigone. In ancient Greek society, the proper burial of the deceased held great significance and was considered a sacred duty. However, Creon’s decree to leave Polynices’ body unburied as punishment for his rebellion against Thebes goes against the divine laws and angers the gods.
Teiresias warns Creon that this act of denying Polynices a proper burial will bring down the curses of the gods upon Thebes. The gods, who are the ultimate authority in Greek mythology, view the desecration of the dead as a severe offense. By defying their divine laws, Creon has invited their wrath upon himself and the city he governs.
The Anger of the Gods and the Punishment
Teiresias emphasizes that the gods disapprove of the disrespect shown towards Polynices’ corpse. He foretells that the gods will not remain silent and will inflict a severe punishment upon Creon for his transgression. Teiresias specifically warns Creon that the death of his own son, Haemon, will be the price he pays for his mistake.
The prophecy of Teiresias serves as a powerful reminder of the gods’ influence and their ability to enact justice. Creon’s refusal to heed the warnings and amend his decision ultimately leads to a tragic outcome, with the loss of his son and the subsequent downfall of his rule.
Conclusion
In “Antigone,” Teiresias serves as a voice of wisdom and foresight, revealing the grave mistake made by Creon. By refusing to honor the divine laws and denying Polynices a proper burial, Creon incurs the wrath of the gods and seals his own tragic fate. The tragedy serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences of hubris and the importance of respecting the gods’ authority.
Sources
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FAQs
What mistake did Teiresias say Creon made in “Antigone”?
Teiresias accuses Creon of the mistake of refusing to grant a proper burial to Polynices, the brother of Antigone. This act goes against the divine laws and angers the gods.
Why is the refusal to bury Polynices considered a mistake?
In ancient Greek society, the proper burial of the deceased was considered a sacred duty. By denying Polynices a proper burial, Creon violated the sacred customs and offended the gods.
What are the consequences of Creon’s mistake?
Teiresias warns Creon that his refusal to bury Polynices and his punishment of Antigone for the burial will bring down the curses of the gods upon Thebes. The gods disapprove of the desecration of Polynices’ corpse and will punish Creon with the death of his own son, Haemon.
Why do the gods view the desecration of the dead as a severe offense?
In Greek mythology, the gods are considered the ultimate authority, and they hold great reverence for the sanctity of the dead. Desecrating the dead is seen as a violation of the natural order and a direct affront to the gods’ power and authority.
How does Teiresias’ prophecy impact the outcome of the play?
Teiresias’ prophecy serves as a foreshadowing of the tragic events that unfold in the play. Creon’s refusal to heed the warning and rectify his mistake leads to the death of his son Haemon and the downfall of his rule.