Hubris (Excessive Pride): Antigone displays hubris by stubbornly insisting on burying her brother, even though it means breaking the law and defying the king's orders. She overestimates her own sense of righteousness and underestimates the power of the state.
Peripeteia (Reversal of Fortune): Antigone's fortunes take a sudden and unexpected turn when Creon discovers that she has disobeyed his orders and buried Polynices. This leads to her arrest and eventual death.
Anagnorisis (Recognition): Antigone comes to realize the consequences of her actions and the tragic fate that awaits her. She recognizes that she has made a mistake in defying Creon and acknowledges the power of the state.
Catharsis (Purification): The audience experiences a sense of pity and fear as they witness Antigone's tragic downfall. Through her suffering, the audience is reminded of the importance of moderation, respect for authority, and the consequences of excessive pride and stubbornness.
Noble Qualities: Despite her tragic flaw, Antigone is a noble character who is motivated by her love and loyalty for her family. She is willing to sacrifice her own life to honor her brother and uphold her moral principles. Her courage and determination make her a sympathetic figure in the play.
These elements combine to make Antigone a classic example of a tragic hero. Her story reminds us of the dangers of excessive pride and stubbornness, the importance of finding balance and moderation in life, and the tragic consequences that can result from defying authority and moral norms.