In Oedipus Rex, Creon is portrayed as a benevolent figure with seemingly little interest in power yet in Antigone; he is desperate to maintain total and complete control in his rule. Is this meant as a commentary on the effect of power that can alter the established character of a man? Perhaps so, but given the order in which the plays were written, might it not also be perceived that Sophocles interpreted Creon as more than a villain? .
According to Aristotle, the tragedy that affects the classical tragic hero is the result of his human flaws as opposed to the interference of an exterior force. In choosing to disregard the will of the gods by denying the proper burial for his nephew Polyneices, he begins the chain of events that will ultimately lead to the destruction of everything he loves. Traditionally, opposition to the will of the gods would result in destruction created by the offended immortal. It is important to recognize in the analysis of Creon, that although he is acting against the will of the gods, he is not purposefully challenging them. Creon states, "Never, while I rule, will a criminal be honored higher than a man of justice. But give me a true friend of this city and I will pay him full honor, in death or life." Antigone's opposition to his decree condemns her in the eyes of Creon. To him, she is challenging what is legal and just thereby making her opposition seemingly illegal and unjust. It is important to recognize that Creon believes that his decision is just, and it is this conviction of belief that blinds him to the warnings of his loved ones and leads him to his imminent downfall. .
The main contenders in the conflict of the tragedy are Creon and Antigone but symbolically, they represent a conflict of authority. Creon is the established figure of authority in Thebes and is just in defending his position against the defiance of a civilian. However, Antigone, in her plea, is the representative of the higher power of the immortal entities, and so what at first presents itself as a case of civil disobedience is broadened into a conflict of mortal versus immortal law.