It is possible to argue that this play has two tragic figures. Sophocles presents such a balanced perspective of both characters that is difficult to determine which is the true protagonist. Both suffer from excessive pride. Both are headstrong and stubborn. Both are right in their own way--Creon upholds civil law; Antigone follows the laws of gods. Each is urged by others to reconsider and compromise. In fact, Creon does change his mind, but alas, he is too late. I think it boils down to which character you sympathize with more.
Since the play is called Antigone, it could be effectively argued that she is the protagonist. Yet, Creon suffers more at the end. He is the one who realizes his mistake and tries to change. This type of realization is characteristic of a tragic hero.
Various themes are developed through this conflict: the choice between various kinds of moral codes--civil and religious, the consequences of excessive pride, the difficulty in determining when one must stand his ground or compromise.
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