Whose advice does Creon ultimately choose to heed?

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

Creon ultimately chooses to heed the advice of Tiresias, the blind prophet. This decision is pivotal in the play as Tiresias symbolizes wisdom and foresight, providing a crucial perspective that contrasts with Creon's stubbornness. Throughout the tragedy, Tiresias warns Creon about the consequences of his actions, particularly regarding the unburied body of Polynices and the harsh punishment imposed on Antigone. His prophecies reveal that the gods disapprove of Creon's actions, indicating that adherence to human law at the expense of divine law will lead to catastrophic outcomes.

The gravity of Tiresias' warnings, coupled with his status as a respected figure in Thebes, compels Creon to reconsider his stance. His eventual acceptance of Tiresias' counsel highlights a central theme in the play: the importance of humility and the willingness to listen to wisdom, even when one is in a position of power. This lesson is crucial for Creon, whose tragic flaw—hubris—has led him to isolate himself from the voices of reason around him, thereby setting the stage for the tragic events that unfold.

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