Trust dies but mistrust blossoms

Trust dies but mistrust blossoms

In the world of Sophocles' plays, the theme of trust and mistrust is a prevalent and powerful one. The idea that trust can die while mistrust blossoms is a central theme in many of his works, particularly in tragedies such as "Oedipus Rex" and "Antigone".

In "Oedipus Rex", we see the tragic consequences of misplaced trust and the devastating effects of mistrust. Oedipus, the protagonist, trusts in his own intelligence and ability to solve the riddle of the Sphinx, only to discover that he has unknowingly fulfilled a prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother. This revelation shatters his trust in himself and in the world around him, leading to his downfall and eventual self-blinding.

Similarly, in "Antigone", we see the destructive power of mistrust between family members. Antigone's loyalty to her brother Polyneices leads her to defy the king's orders and bury him, sparking a conflict with her sister Ismene and the king himself. The mistrust between Antigone and Creon, the king, ultimately leads to tragedy and death for both of them, as well as for their loved ones.