Bridal Imagery of Antigone

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             What ought to be Creon's most conflicting decision throughout the play, is whether he should put Antigone to death for betraying his laws, or he should take the advise of Haemon, Antigone, and the people of Creon, and allow her to live. Though Antigone does go against her uncle's wishes, and laws, Creon immorally ignores family ties, and sentences Antigone to death. Antigone though is not only tied to Creon as his niece, but she is also engaged to be wed to his son, Haemon. It is a wedding that can no longer take place as a result of her sentence. Ironically however, Antigone is sent to be buried in what is referred to as a "bridal chamber."" This is the first appearance of the bridal imagery in the play. Antigone also makes many speeches to the people of Thebes to make them aware of her situation, so that they can pity her. "See me people of my fatherland, setting forth on my last way, looking my last on the sunlight that is for me no more; no, Hades who gives sleep to all leads me the chant that brings the bride, nor hath any song been mine for the crowning of bridals; whom the lord of the Dark Lake shall wed."" (Oates/ O'Neill, 216) This is where Antigone truly accentuates the bridal image in order to gain pity, sympathy, and support from the people. Haemon, in turn, takes the words of Antigone and the words of the people of Thebes to his father in hopes that he will sympathize with their feelings. Haemon argues with Creon to try and make him see what a profound influence Antigone has had on him and the people alike. Creon however, does not allow Haemon's arguments to get through. "Thou canst never marry her, on this side of the grave."" (Oates/ O'Neill, 214) Though Creon is outwardly very stubborn about his decision to put his niece to death, and rob his son of a wife, he is internally hurt because everyone is siding with Antigone and Haemon. He asks repeatedly if it is right that people have say in the actions taken by their government.