What is Antigone's main point in the argument with Creon regarding Polynices' burial?

Prepare for the Antigone by Sophocles Test. Delve into flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ready yourself for success!

The main point of Antigone's argument with Creon centers on her belief that burying Polynices is not only an act of familial loyalty but also a moral obligation that transcends the laws of man. Antigone argues that divine law calls for the dead to be buried properly, a duty she feels is paramount regardless of Creon's decree. This reflects her commitment to the values of honor, family, and the gods’ commandments, which she sees as more significant than the temporal authority held by Creon as king.

This decision to prioritize this moral and spiritual duty over earthly laws is what drives her to defy Creon openly. She asserts that honoring the dead is inherently right and just, emphasizing the importance of love and duty to family. This perspective captures the central conflict in the play, as Antigone's moral stance puts her at odds with Creon's rigid enforcement of state law, thus embodying the clash between individual conscience and societal rules.

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