What does Creon accuse the guards of?

Creon accuses the guards of accepting bribes as a way to explain the burial of Polynices, which he had specifically forbidden. This accusation reflects his deep-seated mistrust and paranoia regarding the loyalty of those around him. He believes that the guards are not only failing to perform their duties but are also corrupt, which undermines his authority and the law he has put in place. By framing his anger in terms of bribery, Creon is illustrating the broader theme of corruption and moral decay within the society he governs. His accusation indicates his belief that the guards have prioritized personal gain over their responsibilities, which intensifies the tension between individual ethics and state law in the play.

The other choices touch on important themes, such as negligence or cowardice, but they don't capture the specific nature of Creon's concerns about loyalty, authority, and corruption in the context of the burial of Polynices.