1. Filial and Religious duty: Antigone felt compelled to fulfill her sacred duty as a sister to honor the memory of her deceased brother, Polyneices. In ancient Greek religion, it was considered a sin to leave the deceased unburied, as it denied them the proper passage into the afterlife.
2. Respect for the Divine Laws: Antigone believed that the unwritten, eternal laws of the gods, which she referred to as "the justice that comes from the gods" (Sophocles, Antigone), held higher authority than Creon's decrees. She considered burying Polyneices an act of religious and moral piety.
3. Rebellion Against Tyranny: Antigone's defiance of Creon's order can also be seen as an act of resistance against what she perceived as his tyrannical and unjust rule. Creon's decree violated divine laws and Antigone's conscience, leading her to stand up against his oppressive authority.
4. Familial Bonds: Antigone's close relationship with her brother and the bond of loyalty and love between siblings were fundamental in shaping her decision. Even though Polyneices had fought against Thebes (their city), Antigone refused to abandon him in death.
5. Honor and Legacy: By defying Creon and honoring her brother, Antigone believed she was upholding the family's honor and preserving their legacy. She felt that it was crucial to defend Polyneices' reputation and ensure that his soul would find peace in the afterlife.
6. Personal Integrity and Moral Courage: Antigone's actions showcased her strong sense of personal integrity and her willingness to stand up for her beliefs, even in the face of severe punishment and social disapproval. She prioritized moral principles over personal safety or social convention.
It's important to note that Antigone's motives are presented with considerable sympathy by Sophocles, making her a tragic heroine of the play. Her convictions regarding the importance of familial bonds, moral duty, and adhering to divine law bring about her eventual downfall but also highlight her unwavering devotion to justice, religious values, and the sanctity of family ties.