Divine law vs. human law

Definition

Divine law refers to the set of moral and ethical principles that are believed to be established by a higher power, often guiding individuals towards righteousness. In contrast, human law is created by humans to govern society and maintain order, which can sometimes conflict with divine law. This tension between divine and human law is a central theme in various narratives, particularly in the exploration of justice, morality, and individual agency.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the context of the narrative, divine law is represented as an unchangeable truth that must be followed, while human law can be flawed and influenced by political power.
2. Antigone’s actions exemplify the struggle between following divine law, which mandates honoring the dead, and obeying human law, which forbids her brother's burial.
3. The play raises questions about the consequences of defying human authority in favor of divine command, impacting both Antigone and Creon significantly.
4. Creon’s rigid adherence to human law ultimately leads to tragedy, illustrating how prioritizing man-made laws over divine will can result in catastrophic outcomes.
5. The conflict between divine and human law serves as a commentary on moral responsibility and the challenges of governance, as characters navigate their duties to both the gods and the state.

Review Questions

• How does Antigone’s character embody the conflict between divine law and human law?
  • Antigone's character illustrates the deep conflict between divine law and human law through her unwavering commitment to burying her brother Polyneices, despite Creon's edict against it. Her actions reflect her belief that honoring the dead is a sacred duty ordained by the gods, showcasing her prioritization of divine law over human authority. This struggle highlights her moral integrity but also sets her on a tragic path as she faces severe consequences for her defiance.
• Discuss how Creon’s perspective on human law contrasts with Antigone’s view of divine law and the implications this has for their characters.
  • Creon represents a strict interpretation of human law, believing that order and stability in Thebes depend on his authority being upheld without exception. His refusal to compromise or consider divine law leads him to punish Antigone harshly. This contrast not only emphasizes Antigone's moral fortitude but also reveals Creon's tragic flaw; his inability to see beyond his rigid adherence to human constructs ultimately results in personal loss and chaos within his rule.
• Analyze how the resolution of the conflict between divine law and human law impacts the overall message of the narrative.
  • The resolution of this conflict underscores the complex interplay between moral duty and civic responsibility within the narrative. As Antigone's defiance leads to tragic outcomes for both her and Creon, it serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring either divine or human law. The ultimate message critiques authoritarian governance and champions individual conscience, urging audiences to reflect on their own moral choices when faced with similar dilemmas in life.

Related terms

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a person faces conflicting moral principles, often forcing a choice between adhering to divine or human law.

Ethical Absolutism: The belief that certain actions are universally right or wrong, regardless of context, often tied to divine law.

Civil Disobedience: The active refusal to obey certain laws as a form of protest against perceived injustice, often highlighting the conflict between human and divine law.