What significant event does the messenger report to the Chorus?

The messenger's report to the Chorus is a pivotal moment in "Antigone," as he reveals that Haemon, Creon's son and Antigone's fiancé, has taken his own life. This event is significant because it underscores the tragic consequences of the rigid adherence to law and authority exemplified by Creon, and the emotional turmoil that results from the characters' decisions throughout the play. Haemon's suicide is a direct response to the despair and hopelessness he feels after finding Antigone dead in the tomb where she was incarcerated. The revelation of his death serves as a catalyst for Creon's ultimate realization of his tragic errors, marking a turning point in the narrative that encapsulates the themes of fate, family loyalty, and the ramifications of pride.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect this crucial development. The idea of Creon's death or Antigone's escape would indicate a different direction in the narrative than what actually occurs. Polynices’ burial is a past event that drives the initial conflict but does not hold the same immediate dramatic impact at this moment of the story. Thus, the report of Haemon's death resonates deeply with the overall tragedy and thematic undercurrents of the play.