1. Open Disobedience: Antigone openly disobeys Creon's edict by burying her brother Polynices, despite knowing that it is a crime punishable by death. She performs the burial rites herself and even boasts about it to Ismene, her sister, who tries to dissuade her from the dangerous act.
2. Moral Reasoning: Antigone's defiance is driven by her strong sense of morality and duty to her family. She believes that it is her religious and ethical responsibility to bury her brother, regardless of Creon's commands. She argues that the laws of the gods, which govern the underworld and the afterlife, supersede the laws of man.
3. Rebellious Assertions: Throughout the play, Antigone makes bold and defiant assertions, challenging Creon's authority and his right to dictate moral principles. She argues that Creon's law violates divine justice and is against the natural order. She states, "I did it and I do not deny it. I defy your law and your authority. Who are you to dictate to me what is right and wrong?"
4. Resistance and Protest: Antigone's defiance is not limited to words; she also actively resists Creon's authority through her actions. She chooses to bury Polynices in a way that ensures her deed is discovered, knowing that it will incur Creon's wrath. By doing so, she stages a protest against his tyrannical decree and encourages others to question his rule.
5. Willingness to Face Consequences: Antigone is fully aware of the potential consequences of her actions, including the threat of execution. Despite this, she is unwavering in her determination to honor her brother and stand up for what she believes in. Her willingness to face the consequences of her defiance demonstrates her strength and commitment to her principles.
Through these actions, Antigone emerges as a courageous and principled individual who challenges the unjust and authoritarian rule of Creon. She defies him both physically and ideologically, inspiring others to question the moral validity of his authority and to resist oppressive laws.