Antigone Group

Question:

rudeswaqq
rudeswaqq
Student
High School - 10th Grade

In Antigone, Haimion says that "no marriage means more" to him than what?

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Posted by rudeswaqq on Thursday October 1, 2009 at 3:00 PM and tagged with antigone, creon, haimon.


Answers:

  1. mshurn
    mshurn Teacher
    College - Freshman

    eNotes Editor

    In Scene 3, Haimon has an extended conversation with his father, Creon, in regard to Haimon's love for Antigone, her defiance of Creon, and Creon's punishment for her actions. When he first begins to talk with his father, Haimon is warm and respectful toward Creon. Creon asks how Haimon is feeling about him:

    Have you come here hating me, or have you come

    With deference and with love, whatever I do?

    Haimon responds to assure Creon of his loyalty and respect:

    I am your son, Father. You are my guide.

    You make things clear for me, and I obey you.

    No marriage means more to me than your continuing wisdom.

    With these words, Haimon is telling his father that he values Creon more than he loves Antigone.

    Haimon knows his father well and understands his ego and his rash nature. He treads softly here so that he does not anger Creon before he defends Antigone and her actions.

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    Posted by mshurn on Thursday October 1, 2009 at 3:42 PM


  2. jseligmann Teacher
    High School - 11th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    I agree with mshurn. I would add this, however: Haimon says, "No marriage means more to me than your continuing wisdom." In his cunning use of words, Haimon could be implying that his love for Antigone is equal to, although different from, his love and respect for his father. "No marriage means more," does not necessarily say that another marriage would mean less.

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    Posted by jseligmann on Friday October 2, 2009 at 1:17 AM