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How does Sophocles present two worldviews in

Sophocles' portrayal of Antigone and Creon showcases two opposing worldviews that reflect broader philosophical and moral debates in ancient Greek society.

1. Antigone's Perspective: Divine Law and Ethical Obligations

* Antigone represents the traditional view that certain moral and religious duties transcend the laws of the state.

* She believes in the existence of unwritten, universal laws (the divine laws) that come from the gods and are高于人间法律。

* She feels morally obligated to bury her brother Polynices despite Creon's decree, emphasizing the importance of family and religious customs.

* Antigone's worldview is guided by her sense of personal integrity, familial duty, and loyalty to the gods.

2. Creon's Perspective: State Authority and Civic Duty

* Creon represents the rationalist view that emphasizes the importance of state laws and the preservation of social order.

* He believes the laws of the city-state should be absolute, and any violation, even in the name of family or religious duty, should be punished.

* Creon places a strong emphasis on his role as the ruler, arguing that the stability and well-being of the state depend on his authority being respected.

* His worldview prioritizes societal stability, obedience to authority, and the preservation of the state's laws and traditions.

Underlying Themes:

* Conflict between Divine and Human Laws: Sophocles explores the tension between the individual's moral obligations and the demands of the state. Antigone's adherence to divine laws clashes with Creon's insistence on enforcing human laws.

* Power Dynamics and Authority: The play highlights the power dynamics between individuals and the state, as well as the limits and responsibilities of authority figures.

* Tragic Consequences of Inflexibility: Both characters' unwavering commitment to their respective viewpoints leads to tragic outcomes, demonstrating the consequences of excessive stubbornness and the need for moderation.

* Sophocles' Message: Sophocles' portrayal of these opposing worldviews raises questions about the nature of justice, the role of divine laws, and the limits of human authority. He invites the audience to reflect on these complex issues and consider the potential repercussions of extreme viewpoints.

Illusions

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