Written Law Vs. Moral Law: Pub 1

David Rosario

Professor Mignano-Brady

EGL 102: Literature For The Soul

17 February 2023

                                        Written Law Vs. Moral Law: Pub 1

In Sophocles' play Antigone, the conflict between written law and moral law is a central theme. Creon, the King of Thebes, represents the Written Law, which is the law of the state, while Antigone represents the Moral Law, which is the law of the conscience. The conflict between the two principles leads to the tragic outcome of the play.

Creon's emphasis on written law is evident throughout the play. He believes that obedience to the state's laws is necessary for the survival and stability of the state. He issues an edict forbidding the burial of Antigone's brother, Polynices, who rebelled against the state, and orders that his body be left to rot in the open. (Sophocles 220-226) Creon's strict adherence to the law leads him to punish Antigone severely when she disobeys his edict by burying her brother's body. He believes disobedience to the law must be punished to maintain order and stability in the state.

On the other hand, Antigone is driven by the moral law. She believes that she must bury her brother, and that duty is based on her personal moral values and beliefs. For her, burying her brother is an act of piety and respect for the dead. Antigone believes her duty to her family and her conscience is greater than her duty to the state. She is willing to risk her life to fulfill her commitment to morals This is also shown: "But if I had dared to leave the dead man, my mother’s son, dead and unburied, there would have been real pain” (Ntigone 510–513). Her moral compass would not let her rest, knowing that her flesh and blood were not put to rest.

The conflict between the two principles ultimately leads to tragedy. Creon's stubbornness and insistence on obedience to the Written Law led to the deaths of his
son and wife. Antigone's adherence to the moral code leads to her death.

In conclusion, the conflict between written law and moral law is a central theme in Sophocles' play Antigone. Creon represents the duty of obeying the state's laws, while Antigone represents the duty of listening to the private conscience. The play shows that the conflict between the two principles can lead to tragic outcomes. The play suggests that a balance between the written law and the moral law is necessary for a just and stable society.