Creon – Brother-in-law of Oedipus, Creon becomes king of Thebes when Oedipus’s two sons die while battling each other for control of the city. Creon believes in the rule of law and the authority of the state above all else. Bending the rules leads to anarchy, in his opinion, and anarchy is worse than anything. He decrees that the body of Polynices, who fought against his native city, will not be given burial rites but will be left to rot, as a warning to traitors. Creon further decrees that anyone who does try to bury Polynices will be punished with death. In his action we can see the presence of pride, disrespect, and ruthlessness, but the lack of compassion.
