What is the central conflict in Sophocles' "Antigone"?

The central conflict in "Antigone" revolves around the clash between Antigone's loyalty to her brother, Polynices, and the laws established by Creon, the ruler of Thebes. Antigone believes that she must honor her brother by giving him a proper burial, which is a sacred duty in her eyes and a matter of familial loyalty. However, Creon has decreed that Polynices is a traitor and forbids his burial, representing the authority of the state and its laws.

This conflict highlights the broader themes of individual morality versus state law, the obligations of family versus civic duty, and the consequences of standing up for one's beliefs. Antigone’s determination to follow her ethical code leads her to defy Creon’s edict, setting the stage for tragedy that unfolds throughout the play.

While the other options present potential conflicts, they do not embody the central theme as vividly as Antigone’s struggle against Creon’s authority, which illustrates the fundamental moral questions at the heart of the play.