Creon’s portrayal of Athenian power and leadership tells us that for anyone elected to be a leader, his mind, his soul, and his will are aligned with the throne’s purpose. In other words, what the leader intends for his country and the people must be reflected in the skills he presents when making laws and governing. Creon states that to him, “a man who rules the entire state and does not the best advice there is, but through fear keeps his mouth forever shut” (Sophocles 180). Power and leadership are not worthy of men who do not dare to raise their opinion on governance matters. When cowards are given leadership, they subject a nation to a state of chaos, and therefore, they become the worst of men.
Furthermore, leadership and power are worthy of people that put their country first. Any individual considering friendship above their country is equal to people who keep their silence when disasters move against their citizens. Creon argues that maintaining silence in the face of disaster is a security threat to any nation. Therefore, power and leadership are not worthy of people who contribute to their citizens’ threat and insecurity. Silence, fear, and lack of courage are associated with people who “act against the state” and are therefore considered enemies of the nation (Sophocles 190). Such people should never be considered for leadership and power since they threaten the ship, a country that keeps the citizens safe. Everyone called to lead a nation must maintain a proper and safe course for the people and the state at large, and they must not prioritize friendship over their country. The principles are what Creon considers effective when leading a state.
Work Cited
Sophocles, “Antigone.” Play, a Critical Anthology. 2019.