What is haemon?

Haemon is a character in Greek mythology, specifically in the play "Antigone" by Sophocles. He is the son of King Creon and fiance of Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus. Haemon is portrayed as a young man who is loyal to both his father and his love for Antigone.

Haemon plays a crucial role in the play as he tries to reason with his father, Creon, to reconsider his harsh decision to punish Antigone for burying her brother, Polyneices. Haemon argues that Creon's actions are unjust and that the citizens of Thebes support Antigone's actions.

Despite his attempts to persuade his father, Haemon ultimately cannot change Creon's mind. The tragic consequences of Creon's stubbornness lead to the deaths of Antigone, Haemon, and Creon's wife, Eurydice.

Haemon's character is often seen as being representative of youth and the struggle between loyalty to family and personal ethics. His relationship with Antigone serves as a contrast to the strict adherence to duty and authority displayed by Creon.