2) The Laws of Tradition (Gods)
In the play Antigone, the Gods play a major role and are constatly affecting the story. Right from the begginning, the reader can tell how much they are relied upon, trusted, and most importantly, never doubted. Creon says in the very beginning of the story, "Sirs, the vessel of our state, after being tossed on wild waves hath once more been safely steadied by the gods." (Line 20). This is a perfect example of how the Gods control everything.
When the guard comes to Creon to tell him of Antigone's law breaking, he says "And we were ready to take red hot iron in our hands;- to walk through fire;- to make oath by the gods that we had not done the deed." To prove his innocence, the guard uses the Gods as his witness and reason for not breaking the law, for if he had, he would suffer. As Antigone is being punuished, Creon asks her if she's ready to die and she responds "Nevertheless, Hades desires these rights." Even in the most frightening time of her life, Antigone shows strength, and accepts her fate awesomely.
"Thou dost not respect them when thou dost trample on the Gods." Haemon says this to Creon, his father as Creon is speaking badly of Antigone and her choices. After going through the story, focusing on references to the Gods, the reader is put in amazement. When a character has an argument to prove, every time he or she uses the almighty Gods as their reasoning.
