149k views
0 votes
Why is Creon suspicious of Haemon’s plea for mercy on behalf of Antigone? Cite evidence from the text to support your answer.

User Nyxynyx
by
8.0k points

2 Answers

2 votes

Haemon's plea for mercy on behalf of Antigone seems to have made Creon suspicious of his intentions. Creon believes that Haemon is trying to convince him to change his decision solely for personal reasons, rather than for the benefit of the state. Creon says, "Has she seduced you too, this wretched girl, this Antigone, or are you loyal still to your father's interests?" (lines 751-753) This statement shows that Creon thinks Haemon is being influenced by Antigone and is no longer loyal to his father. Creon's suspicion is also evident in his response to Haemon's argument that the people of Thebes sympathize with Antigone. Creon dismisses this argument as "the empty chatter of men's tongues" (line 764). Overall, Creon's suspicion of Haemon's plea for mercy is based on his belief that Haemon is acting on personal feelings rather than loyalty to the state.

User HighwayJohn
by
7.9k points
2 votes

Answer: Creon sees Anarchy — which he personifies as a woman — as the greatest crime of all.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Mecalito
by
8.9k points