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Explain who you think best fits the definition of a tragic hero: Antigone or Creon? Identify the tragic flaw and give examples on how it led to his/her downfall.

User Ellockie
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Final answer:

Creon from Sophocles' Antigone is the best example of a tragic hero, with his excessive pride or hubris being his tragic flaw that leads to his downfall and the deaths of his loved ones. Examples of his hubris include refusing to listen to alternative perspectives and dismissing the advice of Tiresias, ultimately resulting in his own isolation and regret.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both Antigone and Creon can be seen as fitting the definition of a tragic hero, but personally, I think Creon is the best example. Creon's tragic flaw is his excessive pride, or hubris, which ultimately leads to his downfall. His pride blinds him from listening to the advice of others and considering alternative perspectives. This ultimately results in the death of his son, Haemon, and his wife, Eurydice, which leads to his own isolation and regret.

For example, when Creon issues the decree that Polyneices must not be buried, Antigone goes against his order and buries her brother. Instead of reflecting on the consequences of his strict decree, Creon refuses to show mercy and insists on punishing Antigone, which alienates his own son, Haemon.

Another example is when the prophet Tiresias warns Creon about the consequences of his actions and urges him to change his course. However, Creon's pride prevents him from heeding the advice and he dismisses Tiresias, further sealing his tragic fate.

User Brad Lanam
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