In Greek tragedy, hubris is excessive pride or vanity that causes characters to overstep their boundaries and then fall in vain. In Antigone, Creon displays hubris when he takes matters of life and death into his own hands rather than leave those decisions to the gods. Which of these excerpts from Antigone demonstrates Creon’s hubris?


CREON:

Our storm-tossed ship of state, now safe in port.

But you by special summons I convened

As my most trusted councilors; first, because

I knew you loyal to Laius of old;

Again, when Oedipus restored our State,

Both while he ruled and when his rule was o'er,…


. . .


CREON:

If I perceive some mischievous design

To sap the State, I will not hold my tongue;

Nor would I reckon as my private friend

A public foe, well knowing that the State

Is the good ship that holds our fortunes all:

Farewell to friendship, if she suffers wreck.


. . .


CREON:

I have proclaimed an edict as concerns

The sons of Oedipus; Eteocles

Who in his country's battle fought and fell,

The foremost champion—duly bury him

With all observances and ceremonies.


. . .


CREON:

For Polyneices 'tis ordained that none

Shall give him burial or make mourn for him,

But leave his corpse unburied, to be meat

For dogs and carrion crows, a ghastly sight.

So am I purposed; never by my will.