they may "not be ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the gate." Sons are born that
"They may requite with ill their father's foe,
And honour whom their father loves to honour.
But when a man's own children help him not,
What shall we say he has begotten, but
Clogs for himself and laughter for his foes?"
Love for a woman—already doomed to death—should not make shipwreck of a man's understanding. Disobedience produces anarchy, and anarchy destroys the state.
Hæmon eloquently entreats his father to listen to the voice of reason, and not to disregard the public opinion, which had already pronounced in favour of Antigone. Creon, as a sovereign, cannot himself hear the secret whispers of the people, or know
"How the whole city mourns this maiden's fate
As one 'who of all women most unjustly
For noblest deed must die the foulest death.'"—(P.)
King though he is, let him beware of straining the reins of government too tightly. He should not act the tyrant by ruling only for himself.
"That is no city which belongs to one."
But all Hæmon's arguments and remonstrances are unavailing. Croon's heart is hardened, and he will not let the maiden go.
"Lead her out
Whom my soul hates, that she may die forthwith
Before mine eyes, and near her bridegroom here."—(P.)
This cruel speech exhausts Hæmon's patience, and he
