Creon has several reasons for refusing Polynices the culturally prescribed burial, just as Antigone has compelling reasons for insisting on it. He could have acted based on her reasoning, especially the idea that everyone is deserving of burial: “Death longs for the same rites for all,” is how she phrases it, implying that the cosmic forces or deities are those who make the determination.

While Creon bases his order on the idea that the young man was a traitor, the situation is not that straightforward. Creon sharply distinguishes between the actions of Eteocles and Polynices, painting the former as a hero. However, the conflict between the brothers came about because Eteocles refused to honor the bargain and step down at the agreed-upon time, so his behavior might easily be construed as other than heroic. Another reason to allow the burial is for the family’s sake. Creon knows that Antigone is obligated to bury her blood kin, and his order to the contrary is a deliberate insult to her and, by extension, her entire lineage. In the end, Creon fears that he has offended the gods with his decision, and changes his mind.