What is the overall theme suggested by Tiresias’ warnings to Creon?

The overall theme suggested by Tiresias’ warnings to Creon centers on the consequences of pride. Throughout the play, Creon’s stubbornness and hubris lead him to defy the natural laws and the will of the gods, particularly regarding the burial of Polynices. Tiresias, as a blind prophet, represents the voice of divine insight, cautioning Creon that his excessive pride not only jeopardizes his leadership but also brings about disastrous effects on his family and the state.

Tiresias foresees that Creon's refusal to heed the divine laws will result in tragedy, emphasizing that pride can blind a person to reason and the needs of others. This warning foreshadows the consequences that will unfold throughout the narrative as Creon’s pride leads to the demise of those he loves, demonstrating how arrogance can create a cycle of suffering. By recognizing the severity of pride's consequences, readers understand the broader moral lessons about humility, respect for the divine, and the dangers of excessive arrogance in leadership.