Antigone
In scene three of Sophocles Antigone, there is a conversation between Creon, the king, and his son, Haimon. Haimon comes to his father to talk to him in grief and concern over Antigone, his bride-to-be. Creon questions Haimon and is unsure if he agrees with him or not. Haimon tells his father that he, Creon, is his guide and that no marriage is as important as his fathers continuing wisdom.
Creon being satisfied with his sons answer, he tells his son that he is subordinate, and that is the way to behave towards his fathers will. He continues to tell his son that he should be loyal, hate his enemies; in the end an obedient son will turn out to be good leader.
Creon also views Antigone inferior, and does not want to be put down or given rule over by a women, even if it is just and the right thing to do. After Creons chat with Haimon, Haimon gets a chance to talk about how he feels. Haimon tells his father that he might be wrong and mistaken about his decision. He thinks his decision is too harsh and unjust, and the people of the city agree. Creon says it is not up to the people and he can not pardon her or it will make him look weak. Creon makes all the decisions; he is the state, not the people. At this point he has become a dictator and what he says is all just and true.
Haimon threatens his father that if he takes Antigone life, then another will be taken, being he. His father does not like the threat and demands Antigone to be bought out and killed in front of Haimon to watch. Of course Haimon refuses to view this and leaves, never to talk to his father again.
Their relationship is one that is distorted. Haimon wants to be a good son, obey his father, and agree with him. Haimon becomes torn when he views his Creon as unjust, especially when it concerns his bride-to-be. Creon does not care about his son and his love and attempts to convince Haimon that he needs a wife that will not be strong and outspoken, like...
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