What action does Creon take after realizing the consequences of his actions?

Creon’s transformation and subsequent realization of the consequences of his rigid adherence to law and authority is a poignant moment in Sophocles’ "Antigone." After the tragic outcomes of his decisions, including the deaths of Antigone, Haemon, and Eurydice, Creon is engulfed by profound grief and regret. He comes to understand that his inflexible stance and the prideful enforcement of his edicts have led to not only the destruction of his family but also to his own downfall.

This moment underscores the themes of pride, the consequences of hubris, and the necessity of compassion over rigidity in leadership. Creon’s acknowledgment of his errors serves as a tragic realization that power devoid of empathy can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Ultimately, he is left alone to face the irreversible damage caused by his actions, marking a significant shift from a ruler confident in his decisions to a man burdened by the realization of his failures.