In 495 B.C., a boy was born about a mile northwest of Athens. His father was a wealthy merchant, so he was able to enjoy all the luxuries of a Greek empire. At the age of sixteen, he was already well known and chosen to lead a choir of boys to celebrate the victory of Salamis. Twelve years later, he finished his studies of the arts, and was ready to compete in an annual festival called the City Dionysia. He shocked everyone by taking first place and defeating Aeschylus. He went on to win eighteen first prizes, and a handful of second prizes. He was also an actor and performed in many of his own plays. He later gave up acting to pursue other things. In addition to his role in the theatre, he served for years as a priest, served on the Board of Generals, and was a director of the Treasury. Although he wrote over 120 plays, only seven have survived. Of these, Oedipus the King is typically considered his best work. Sophocles’ incredibly successful life came to an abrupt end when he died in 405 B.C.
Summary
The scene starts out with a conversation between Creon and Haemon. Haemon enters the room, and Creon asks if he hates him or loves him despite the choice he made. Haemon assures Creon that no marriage means more to him than Creon’s wisdom. Creon is pleased to hear this, and starts saying mean things about Antigone, calling her a hellcat and saying she is evil. Haemon then talks to Creon about his stubbornness. He tells him that the people of the town have been saying his decision is foolish, his temper scares them, and that they believe Antigone should be honored, rather than killed. The Choragus says that they both should just listen to each other. Creon and Haemon then begin to argue. Creon thinks that it’s ridiculous of a man with so much experience to listen to a young boy. He calls Haemon a girl-struck fool. The message didn’t get through to Creon, because he still decides to punish Antigone.