In the play "Antigone", pride caused the downfall of both Creon and Antigone. Creon's pride took the form of hubris; in Greek tragedies, hubris referred to arrogant pride. It often led a flawed character into conflict with the gods; the gods then seek retribution, which leads to the characters' downfall. Antigone's pride was expressed through her actions and in respecting her family and honoring the gods. Her pride did not place her into conflict with the gods, but it too led to her downfall. Although pride brings the downfall to both Creon and Antigone, it is Antigone who we truly respect.

Creon fitted perfectly with the concept of hubris, as his arrogant pride led to his downfall. As the king of Thebes, he believed that he should receive unquestioning respect and obedience, claiming "He whom the state appoints must be obeyed to the smallest matter, be it right...