V .^^ %%^ N r- -^A v^' oV. ^^ -%. \ 1 '%-'^' o O .0^ ^ w\^ 1^ ^ ^ ^ , vO' ^»- %%. i'^^T -v \* "^^^ ^^ "^t. V V -ik^ .\ THE TRAGEDIES OF SOPHOCLES, TRANSLATED FROM THE GREEK: "• WITH NOTES HISTORICAL, MORAL, AND CRITICAL; Wherein several Mistakes of EDITORS and the old SCHOLIASTS are corrected : TO WHICH IS PREFIXED, A PREFACE; CONTAINING A DEFENCE OF TRAGIC POETRY, AN HISTORICAL ACCOTJNT OF ITS RISE AND PROGRESS, AND A COMPARISON OF THE ANCIENT TRAGEDIANS WITH EACH OTHER. BY GEORGE ADAMS, A.B. :^^M76« Late of St. John's College, Cambridge. Take you the Greek examples for your light In hand, and turn them over day and night. Ben Jonson's Hor. A NEW EDITION. LONDON : PRINTED FOR T. AND J. ALLMAN, PRINCE'S STREET, HANOVER-SQUARE j BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY, PATERNOSTER- ROW ; MUNDAY AND SLATTER, OXFORD; AND R. NEWBY, CAMBRIDGE. 1818. v- :> i PREFACE. AFTER the universal applause which the learned world have given to the Tragedies of Sophocles^ it would be needless to say any thing to recom- mend a translation of them, were all people con- versant with them: yet since far the greater part of the world are ignorant and unlearned, and who, for that very reason, do not only decry dra- matic, but all kinds of poetry in general, as to them it is necessary to speak in its defence. For, to what purpose is it to shew them the excellency of an author, which consists in an art which they in general condemn, as a means of corrupting men's morals, and eradicating out of their minds the principles of virtue ! But I hope to make it appear in the sequel of this discourse, that this accusa- tion is not only unjust, but that tragedy, which is the object of their uttier aversion, is not only an a 2 IV PREFACE. innoeent diversion but even useful, for the improve- ment of men's manners and direction of their lives, by inspiring them with the love of virtue and hatred of vice, by shewing, in their proper colours, the beauty of the one and the deformity of the other ; and, as men are endowed with reasonable souls, capable of choosing good, and refusing evil, by directing them to the proper objects of their choice and love, as well as of their hatred and aversion. But here it must be understood, that I only by tragedy mean those of Sophocles and Euripides, and such as are built upon their plan, not such stuft as ignorant poetasters have imposed upon the world for tragedy since their times : who, studying more how to fill their pockets than improve their hearers, chose to compose such pieces as would gratify men's exti^vagant humours, as better serving their avaricious purposes. This avarice is a fault of which not Dorsennus only was guilty, of whom Horace gives this cha- racter, Epist. lib. 2. Gestit enim nummum in Loculos demittere ; post hoc Securus, cadat, an recto stel fahula talo. PREFACE. V *' If the praetor paid him well for his pains in " composing his pieces, he was careless what re- '' putation they had afterwards in the world." I am afraid the celebrated Shakspeare cannot be en- tirely acquitted from having a share in this charge, which, perhaps, was the occasion of so many gross irregularities in that poet, which nothing but his other excellencies can excuse. This avarice of the poets brought a scandal upon the art in general, and gave ground to many ob- jections against it, which, abstracted from its abuse, is one of the noblest arts that ever was invented. For, not to mention the wonderful effects which have been produced on the minds of men who were present at the acting of good tragedies, how tyrants have forgotten their cruelty, the ambitious been taught to moderate their desires, the slothful to earn glory in the service of their country, (which, as it is the design, so it hath been the effect of them) ; what is tragedy but an imitation of the actions of men, and which, by exciting in us terror and compassion for their misfortunes, teacheth us to moderate those passions, and avoid those faults whose prevalence VI PREFACE. may be like to carry us into the same, or misfor- tunes like those which we see them suffer? Foi instance, who that reads the tragedy of Oedipus, but is inclined to pity that miserable prince, and will not take care to avoid that rashness and curiosity which drove him into all his misfortunes ? Who that reads the tragedy of Ajax and his sad fate N^ill not pity him, and resolve against being overcome by his anger and rage, the miserable causes of it ? Again, the tragedy of Antigone is a good lesson for arbitrary princes to take care how their laws interfere with those of God and nature, and how they put their sanctions in execution against the transgressors of them. Nor are the rest of the tragedies of Sophocles without their morals, to teach men to reduce their passions to the subjection of their reason, and to avoid those faults, which are the occasions of mis- forfun6& to the principal characters; and, lastly, (that \^ichis,^^^ design of perfect tragedies,) they set before oi^^fes the misfortunes which men fall into by their involuntary offences, and so prepare us to bear our own misfortunes with patience, when we consider how light they are in comparison of PREFACE. VU theirs whom we see represented upon the theatre. When we see represented the miseries of Oedipus and Philoctetes, we see that neither greatness nor innocence are sufficient to secure us from the cala- mities incident to man : and when we compare our own condition with theirs, and consider how little they deserved the fate they suffered, it encourageth us with more cheerfulness to combat the storms we meet with, in our passage through the raging waves of this troublesome life. There is a very pertinent reflection to this purpose made by the Emperor Marcus Aurelius, cap. vi. lib. 9. " Tragedies," says he, '' were first introduced *' to put men in mind of those accidents which ** happen in their lives, to inform them that they " must necessarily come, and teach them that those " things, which they see with some delight on the " stage, should not appear unsupportable in the " grand theatre of the world ; for you see plainly " that such ought to be the catastrophe of all " pieces : and those who cry so #iTch on the thea- " tre, Oh Cytheron, do not deliver themselves from " their own evils." Though this is said only in respect to one effect of tragedy, namely, the re- Till PREFACE. fining terror and compassion; yet it shewfi how high an opinion even a Stoic had for this art. The other excellencies of it I shall make out bv a comparison of poetry, of which tragedy is tlie noblest kind, with the other two sciences which are chiefly reckoned to contribute towards the polishing of mankind, and instructing them in the way of their duty, in order to present and future happiness : and those are history and morality, where I shall shew how far poetry excels them both, and is more conducive to that purpose. Other sciences, as , metaphysics, arithmetic, and astronomy, being only subservient to the other, cannot presume to enter the list in this dispute. For example, astronomy consists in observing the order, harmony, and contrivance, of the celes- tial bodies, their steady revolutions, and the various seasons of the year thereby produced ; and though it helps to instruct men, it doth it not directly by its own power, but mediately, ^. e. by giving us high and noble sentiments of God, shewing that he is great and powerful in all his works, that he is a God of order and harmony, and, by conse- PREFACE. IX^ quence, that he requires it in man, the noblest part of the creation, which consists in keeping his passions under the subjection of reason, (for all vice is nothing else but the effects of the irregularity of men's passions,) and shewing that, as he is power- ful and just, he will certainly punish such disorders and irregularities in rational creatures. For the same reason metaphysics, which consist in con- templation of the nature of spirits, are subser- vienf to the same ends, (as may be said of all other sciences that can be thought of, except di- vinity,) i. e. the instruction of men, and making them what they should be ; which are the direct and immediate ends of history, morality, and poetry. For divinity, that must always be ex- cepted, whose present design is to establish the tmth of revealed doctrines of the utmost impor- tance, with respect not only to this life, but even to an eternal one hereafter. What I am therefore to prove is, that poetry is more edifying and in- structive to man, in order to a due regulation of their lives, than either history or morality. First then as to history: what is it but a faithful nar- ration of the actions of men, and other acci- dents, with their circumstances? But it is defec- PREFACE. tive in this particular; for although it may give us instances of persons who have suffered by their vices, or any other causes w^ith w^hich w^e are unac- quainted ; yet, in giving us those instances, it still leaves us ignorant for want of precepts, to teach us ' how to behave ourselves, should any of those cases happen to be ours : for, although we might guess at the cause of a person's sufferings, as a proud man, a tyrannical king, &c. we cannot affirm that his pride or his tyranny were the causes of those sufferings, nor can we affirm that he would not have suffered such things had he been otiierwise. Some folly or indiscretion, or other thing which we are ignorant of, might have caused his misfortunes, which, had he avoided, he might still have pros- pered veiy well in his other vices : so different are the causes of all things which happen, and so ob- scure the paths to trace them out. If, indeed, an historian, in the description of a character, tells us what is to be done and what avoided, he then enters upon the province of the moralist or poet. But the events of history, as such, are far from instructing men, or affording them any general maxims for directing their lives. PREFACE. XI For instance, what moral is to be drawn from a cursed usurper dying in his bed, and a just king murdered by his subjects ? A just Cicero and true patriot of his country suffering a cruel death from an ambitious Anthony? The just Cato besieged and forced to lay violent hands on himself, while rebel Caesar's name lives with honour ? So that it is impossible to draw any general maxims from par- ticular events, and those bare matters of fact which historians are obliged to relate. Morality labours under the same defect, for although a moralist may define prudence, justice, temperance, and other virtues, with their opposite vices, and by many convincing arguments, drawn from the nature of things, shew us how much one is preferable to the other, yet he wants example to enforce those precepts, to shew how persons by their virtue have been happy in their lives, and glorious after death ; and again to shew into what calamities particular persons have fallen by the prevalence of those vices they are declaiming against. But a judicious poet takes in both precept and example, for, as he is purely the maker of his own creature, he forms him as he pleases, and represents to us such per- sons as drew on themselves their own misfortunes XU PREFACE. by their vices and follies, (as Sophocles doth in the tragedies of Ajax, Oedipus, Trachiniae, &c.) or who rendered themselves the objects of our admira- tion and praise, as Ulysses and Theseus. We see nothing in any of those characters, but what is to be done, or what avoided ; for the poet shews us what vices or follies were the next and immediate cause of the sufferings of the one, and what virtues gained the other praise. Oedipus is represented as a prince, who, though he had many excellent virtues, as justice, courage, and tenderness for the welfare of his people, yet fell into his misfortunes by his prodigious rashness and curiosity : and, by his conduct in a particular instance, the poet in- structs us to avoid those faults which brought on him his misfortunes. The same may be said of Ajax, who is repre- sented as a person whose wrath and malice ruined him ; and of Deianira, who was undone by too great credulity, and giving way too much to that weak passion of jealousy. On the other hand, the character of Ulysses is distinguished by several excellent qualities, as his pnidence in composing the strife between Agamemnon and Teucrus, his placable and forgiving temper towaid Ajax. PREFACE. Xm The character of Theseus, in Oedipus Coloneus, is likewise the drauglit of a righteous king, neither terrified by threats nor allured by flatteries from executing justice among his people, when the com- plaints of the miserable call for his assistance. In any of these cases we cannot possibly fail of know- ing how to behave ourselves when we read those poems, should we fall into the same or the like cir- cumstances with the persons there represented. For they are so represented that their words and actions speak the men, and thereby of necessity render them the objects of our love or hatred ;. and what we love or hate in another will have some effect upon our own conduct : whereas the moralist only discourses of virtue and vice in a methodical way, de- fines them according to their subjects, causes, and effects; and enlarges upon each division, but is destitute of example, to shew where those virtues or vices are displayed. And the historian confines himself to strict matters of fact, but shews us not how they ought to influence our conduct. A poet, I according to his name and the import of his office, being derived from the Gtreek word noi»T*j?, a creator or maker, is only to shew men what they should or should not be, not what they are or are not, as the XIY PREFi^CE. historian doth, and therefore he cannot fail of laying down proper instructions for the conduct of hfe, and shewing in others what they ought to do themselves. And thus he answers those ends which both historians and moralists propose, yet labours under none of those defects which they do ; for, as hath been shewn, he gives us the particular instances wherein they have been rash or imprudent, cruel and outrageous ; or, on the contrary, wise, just, and pious, and the motives upon which they proceeded, and how they behaved themselves in such circumstances, and the consequences thereof, which must needs afford matter of great use and application to the hearers. This is no new obser- vation, but what Horace hath long ago made, who tells us, that Homer instructed men what to do, and what to avoid, better than either Chry- sippus or Crantor. Ep. ii. lib. 1. Qui, quid sit pulchrum, quid turpe, quid utile, quid nam, Plenius et melius Chrysippo et Crantore dicit. Now of all kinds of poetry tragedy is confessed- ly the noblest, and therefore better answers this end. Our modern tragedies are, indeed, far less instructive than those of the ancients in this way, PREFACE. XV for want of the chorus, which the other had, whose office it was to make moral apphcations in their songs, from what was said by the actors in the foregoing episode, in which they always conformed themselves to the rules of that religious worship, which was in vogue among them. I shall give the reader the following instance, as a proof of this truth, out of Oedipus Tyrannus. Jocasta, thinking that the oracle, which foretold the fate of Laius was false, viz. that he should be murdered by his son Oedipus, whom she believed to be dead, little thinking that that servant to whom she delivered him did not execute his orders, out of pity to the child, speaks in a contemptuous manner of all oracles in general, and says, that there is as little reason that we should believe that part of the oracle which declared he should commit incest with his mother, or any other oracle whatsoever, as that which she had already proved false. This, from the mouth of a queen, might be of very pernicious consequence to the hearers, by tending to beget in their minds a contempt of all religious worship. The chorus, therefore, to prevej;it the XVI PREFACE. natural effects of so bad an example, and preserve in the minds of the audience a due reverence for religion, declares there is a terrible god that will punish all impiety, either in our words or actions, and prays that he would not revenge the impiety, of Jocasta on that city. Act iii. scene 5, " May " the gods grant me to enjoy a happy state," &c. The way, therefore, to make our theatres as in- structive as the Athenian was, is to restore the chorus, and for ever to banish from the stage such stuff with which it is daily pestered. I shall not however take upon me to dictate so far, as to say what should or should not be done here in this kind among us, who live under so wise a govern- ment ; but leave it to those of better judgment and greater power, whether so considerable an innova- tion be convenient or not; but shall proceed to answer two grand objections which are brought against the use of tragedy : the first is, that it is only suited to a state of heathenism; the other, that it is very much abused ; and the answer which I shall make to these shall be not only sufficient to confute these objections, but likewise farther recom- mend this kind of poetry. The former in its full PREFACE. XVll force and vigour is thus. Although it should be granted, that, in a state of heathenism, when man- kind had but imperfect notions of a future state, and the wisest of the philosophers doubted whether there was any such thing at all or not, such helps as tragedy might be very useful to help the phi- losophers by fables and similitudes, and make out what they could not in the reformation of men. Yet to us, who live under the dispensation of the Gospel, a most perfect rule of faith and obedience delivered by our great prophet Jesus Christ, and are assured by the most convincing arguments of the certainty of a future state of rewards and punishments, what occasion can there be for any such helps as tragedy ; since the Holy Scriptures afford all the arguments that can be desired to persuade us to embrace religion and virtue, and abhor vice ? It is true, were it so that the precepts of the Gospel had their intended effect, and we saw that all men lived according to them; that is, were every man really what he should be, then indeed all theatrical recreations were useless. Yet, since experience informs us that the case is quite other- ^vise, and we' often see men fall into the greatest b XVlll PREFACE. inconveniences, through one predominant passion or other, why should we slight such helps as can be any way conducive to so good an end, as the subduing those passions to the government of rea- son ? We have the examples not only of the pro- phets, but of our Saviour himself, to authorise a parabolical way of instruction, which they often had recourse to, rather than precept. Nathan in particular brought David to repentance by a very remarkable parable. See 2 Sam. xii. We have likewise many parables of our blessed Saviour in the Scripture ; yea, we read in one place that he so far preferred it to precept, that " without '* a parable spake he not unto them," i, e. his dis- ciples. Now, every tragedy hath its fable or para- ble, which is the same, and every parable its moral instruction, for that is the end of all fables, as I have already instanced in the tragedies of Oedipus, Ajax, Antigone, &c. For they are not told as truths, nor doth the poet design to impose his fictions on the world as such ; yet, though they are not in them- selves true, the appUcation and moral instruction which they design is most undoubtedly so : if an- ger destroyed Thyestes, Ajax, and others, rashness PREFACE. XIX and curiosity Oedipus, the sad effects of jealousy Deianira, and severity Creon, we may reasonably conclude, in the ordinary course of things, that where the same passions prevail, they will always have the same effects. And although there had been really no such persons in the world as are here mentioned, yet the application is general to all; and it is most probable that persons of such man- ners should do such actions, and that such actions should produce such consequences. Now, if men, who are slaves to their passions and abandoned in their morals, can be reclaimed, what matters it whether it be done by a poet or divine? If a cruel persecuting tyi'ant is reformed, and be- comes a pious prince, careful for the welfare of his people, what matters it whether it be done by hear- ing a tragedy of the terrible sufferings of a people under a tyrannous government; or, by hearing a sermon, setting forth how God is merciful to all his creatures in general, and that he requires the same temper in men toward their fellow creatures, and the pimishment which waits the opposite vice in a future state, &c. As to the latter, I am aware of an ob- jection, that there is a duty in the very act of hear- ing sermons, which is not in the other : I grant it ; b 2 XX PREFACE. yet that hearing is in order to a better end, viz. to be instructed in the will of God and the wiay of our duty, Rom. x. v. 14, &c. But, if hearing doth not answer that end, it will be so far from standing us in any stead in the day of account, that it will rather be an aggravation of the condemnation of such stony hearts, in which the good seed of the word was sown in vain : and if hearing a tragedy h^th often wrought the minds of men to that Chris- tian temper, which preaching could not, I see not why the use of so good a help is not both lawful and commendable. The usefulness of this diversion will farther ap- pear, if we look back and trace it from its original, and consider the design for which it was first inven- ted, viz. to afford pleasure and profit to its hearers. Wh^a the philosophers found that it was impossible for them to form men, such as they would have them to be, by the precepts of philosophy, they were forced to have recourse to tragedy ; which was therefore invented, not as the best employment that men could take up, but as a means to correct the excess in which they plunged themselves at their feasts ; and to render those amusements profitable. PREFACE. XX;i which custom and their infirmities had made neces- sary, and their corruption very dangerous. So that \ tragedy was designed both to satisfy the natural curiosity of men, and that incHnation which all have to gratify themselves with some kind of recreation, and at the same time to instruct them ; and that very reason, that it doth so, is sufficient to justify the use of it. Moderate recreations are by no means unlawful or contrary to the word of God, but rather authorised by it. God did not give men inclina- tions, but such only, the gratifying of which are lawful, provided they regulate themselves by the measures of prudence and sobriety; and it were heartily to be wished that those libertines, who com- plain of the yoke of religion, would, instead of their customary criminal indulgence of their pas- sions, betake themselves to this kind of diversion. The other objection against tragic poetry is, that it is very much abused. This must certainly be granted ; yet this objection, however true, cannot lie against what I here contend for ; since, as I said before, 1 would be here understood to mean only such tragedies as are built upon the plan of the ancients, Sophocles and Euripides, and according XXii PREFACE. to those rules laid down by Aristotle and Horace ; not such abominable stuff as our English theatres have been crowded with since their times, where the spectators have been entertained with tedious scenes of courtship, abusive language to the clergy, ridiculous contradictions, abominable fustian ; yea, we have instances of their prophane flights of thought, little better than blasphemy . These were faults which Dryden and Lee fell into, who have been followed herein by several other poets since their time, for which they are justly, though severely, scourged by the ingenious Mr. Collier. What an abominable character doth Dryden give us of Nourmahal, in that scene where she discovers her unnatural love for Aurengzebe ? How doth she talk like a woman lost to all shame and modesty ? The ancients never ran into errors of this nature ; for though Phaedra, in Euripides, is in love with Hippolytus, yet her^ honour, throughout the whole play, so far prevails over her love, that it ties her tongue from the least immodest expression. Shakspeare, however faulty in other things, yet , had none of this ; we do not find his plays stuffed with any such tender sentiments between the diffe- PREFACE. XXlll rent sex before marriage, which must be shocking and mieasy to the fair sex, and offensive to that modesty which is no less an ornament to them than their beauty. Juhet and Desdemona are both married, before they make any acknowledgements of their love. We have likewise passages in several of their pieces, where they abuse the clergy with m.ost insolent language, of which the behaviour of Chamont to the Chaplain, in that celebrated play called the Orphan, is one instance; and that of Oedipus, in Dryden's play of that title, toward Tiresias, is another : where the poets have, witli impudent language, abused, not only those persons, namely, the Chaplain and Tiresias in particular, but even railed against the sacred function in general. If it be not raking from too foul a channel, I shall cite the passages from the authors. Oedipus, act iii. Oed, Who were my parents ? Tir, Thou shall know too soon. OeU, Why seek I truth from thee 1 The smiles of courtiers, and the harlot's tears, The tradesmen's oaths and mourning of an heir. Are truths to what priests tell. ' O, why hast priesthood privilege to lie. And yet to be believed 1 ,_^, XXIV PREFACE. And, in the Oi-phan, act iii. Chamont says to the Chaplain : Nay, but th' art an hypocrite ; is there not one Of all thy tribe that's honest in your schools ] And afterwards : If thou wouldst have me not contemn thy office ^ And character, think all thy brethren knaves. Thy trade a cheat, anct thou its worst professor. Afterwards, Chamont, seeing the meekness of the Chaplain, in bearing this language without shewing any great signs of resentment, returns to his former style, and reproaches him with the most vile, the most scurrilous language that impudence and rage could dictate. Curse on that formal steady villain's face. Just so do all bawds look ; nay, bawds, they say. Can pray upon occasion, talk of heaven, Turn up their goggling eyeballs, rail at vice. Dissemble, lie, and preach like any priest. Art thou a bawd ? But it were needless to produce a few passages of this kind, and those only to be found in the writings of authors long since dead, were not their example too ^sely followed by the author of a play too PREFACE. XXV well known, and frequented too, to be jiamed here ; to the shame of the cormpted taste of our nation, and disrelish of the admirable beauties of the ancients. The lawyer bekuaves the divine, &c. And now let any man judge, whether it be fit that men in holy orders, to whom are committed the oracles of God, whose particular business it is to promote the honour of God, and set forward the salvation of all men, should be treated with such language. And I believe all men will allow, that there is no more effectual way to serve the causes of the atheist and infidel, and to bring religion into contempt, than to infuse into men's minds a con- tempt of its teachers. These and such like abuses brought this scandal upon all dramatic writings in general, that they were only invented by the poets to get money, and enrich themselves by the follies and vices of mankind. But what can be more unjust than to banish the true coins out of the world, because of counterfeits ? For such are certainly that kind of tragedy I have now mentioned, with respect to what is truly and properly so called. XXVI PREFACE. Is it an argument that we should never follow the directions of a skilful physician, because some ignorant pretenders have killed their patients by medicines improper for their disease ? This was not because they were physicians ; but because they were nothing less. And yet just so much reason have we to reject the use of right tragedy, because it hath been abused and perverted to base ends. For nothing can be more opposite to right tragedy than what ignorant poetasters have imposed on the world as such ; nor can any thing be more unjust than to condemn it, fqr no other reason but because of that abuse ; and those who do condemn the most noble diversion in the world, a diversion which awakens the genius of men, searches to the inmost recesses of the soul, finds out those virtues which lie hid in the smooth seasons and calms of life, and sets them upon actions truly noble and praisewor- thy. It touches the most obdurate soul ; and makes it melt to behold the sufferings of our fellow crea- tures. I could give many proofs of this truth, but shall at present only trouble the reader with the following. Alexander, a cruel tyrant of Pharae, in Thessaly, being at the theatre when the Hecuba of f^ripides PREFACE. XXVU was acted, was so sensibly moved, that he went out before the first act was ended, saying, he was ashamed to be seen to weep at the ^misfortunes of Hecuba and Polyxena, when he daily imbrued his hands in the blood of his citizens. He was afraid that if he stayed longer his heart would be molli- fied, and forced to quit that spirit of tyranny, which was destructive to so many of his citizens : and the actor escaped with his life only through those small remains of pity he had raised in his breast, who had been so long a stranger to it. Collier himself, who was so violent a scourge of dramatic poetry, yet allows it to be the most use- ful thing the wit of man can invent, for the promo- ting of virtue and the discouragement of vice : and certainly if ever any hath been written without respect to this end, either the avarice, ignorance, or laziness of the^poets have been the occasion of it, and not any defect in the art itself. But it is time that I speak in particular of the tragedies of the ancients, since they are the true models according to which every good tragedian ought to wiite, as being not only according to Aris- totle's rules, but even those upon which he groimded XXVm PREFACE. his rules ; that is, in the state tragic poetry was left by Thespis. In prosecution of which design, I shall give my reader a short account of its rise and pro- gress, and what improvements it gradually received until it arrived at that perfection to which it was brought by Sophocles ; and from thence shew what vicissitudes it underwent, sometimes being eclipsed, and again recovering its ancient lustre, until the later ages. Then I shall mark out the particular excellencies for which the three great heroes of tragic poetry, namely ^schylus, Euripides, and Sophocles, are most eminent ; and the faults for which they are most de- fective : and upon the whole shew, that the preference to the other two is due to Sophocles. I shall begin with the derivation of the word tra- gedy. Tragedy is a word compounded of two Greek words r^dlLog and u^ri, a goat and a song, and it was sung at a feast which was kept in honour of Bacchus, he being the first planter of vines in Attica. At this feast a goat was sacrificed, and the reward given to that person who sang best was a goat. Whence Horace, PREFACE. , XXIX ' Carmine qui tragico vilem certavit oh hircum. Who sung a tragic song for a vile goat. Then to these songs there were other additions made, which improved them to dialogues, between two or more: hence proceeded dramatic poetry, both comic and tragic ; so that there were some tragedians of smaller account before Thespis ; and Mr. Boileau was mistaken in ascribing the first in- vention of this art to that tragedian. What im- provements he and ^schylus afterwards made, Horace tells us in these following lines : Ignotum tragicce genus invenisse camoence Dicitur, et plaustris vexisse potmata Thespis, Quee canerent agerentque peruncti fcecihus ora. Post hunc personcB pallceque repertor honestfB Mschylus, et modicis instravit pulpita tignis, Et docuit magnumque loqui, nitique cothurno. Thespis is said to be the first found out The tragedy, and carried it about. Till then unknown, in carts, wherein did ride Those that did sing, and act : their faces dy'd With lees of wine. Next iEschylus more late Brought in the visor and the robe of state, Built a small timber'd stage, and taught them talk Lofty and great; and in the buskin walk. Ben Jonson's Har. XXX PREFACE. So that at first there was only a Chorus, who acted alone ; afterwards, Thespis, in order to ^ve some rest to the Chorus, added another person; and iEschylus a second ; one of which was to be the chief character, and the other a dependant or re- tinue to him : and, in order to give the more room to the dialogue between the two actors, retrenched the length of the songs of the Chorus. Lastly, So- phocles, having more narrowly examined the nature of tragedy, and finding that iEschylus's two actors did not set off the scene well, and could not give an opportunity of such a variety of plots and con- trivances as ought to be there, reduced the songs of the Chorus to their just bounds, which ^schylus had shortened too much, and added a third, and there all the Greek tragedians remained. And though JEschylus, both in his Choephori and Eu- menides, has three actors talking together, yet it was because he had made those plays twelve years after he had seen some of Sophocles's pieces, from which he took his third actor : and, therefore, Horace lays down this rule : — Nee quarta loqui persona lahoret. Nor strive to make a fourth person speak. And, indeed, if we rightly consider the nature of PREFACE. XXXI dialogue, we shall find that there can happen few cases wherein it shall be necessary for above three persons together to speak, although four persons and more, to give beauty and majesty to a scene, may be admitted. Thus I have given my readers a short account of the rise and progress of tragedy, until the time of Sophocles, when it was brought to that {perfection, that Aristotle would not resolve this question, whe- ther any thing more could be added to it ? After Sophocles's time, as princes smiled upon or slighted this and other arts and sciences, so this art under- went many changes, from better to worse, and the contrary. Under the reigns of Alexander, the son of Amyntas, Perdiccas, and Archelaus, it flourished and was in great reputation ; but in the following reigns it languished. Then again, under the reigns of Philip and Alexander, those glorious princes so dispensed their favours to the poets, that they again brought it to its flourishing state. After the death of Alexander it began again to fade, and never recovered its strength till the reign of Augustus, a prince, who, how much he was renowned for his great encourage- ment of this as well as all other kinds of poetry, it is very well known, and the poets rewarded him for XXXU PREFACE. his favours by immortal monuments of hi^ worth ; but Horace, in particular, who sang his praise in the most beautiful odes that the most excellent spirit of poetry could possibly dictate. After the death of Augustus, for more than sixteen hundred years, it grew feeble till the last age, when it was recovered out of its almost lost state by M. Corneille and Racine, both Frenchmen. But to come to the writers of our own nation, the divine Shakspeare was the first who began this art among us, and indeed who ended it too, for he has gained so much praise in it that he hath scarce left any for those who come after him. And he is so much the more to be admired, because he performed what he did without the help of learning ; nor, indeed, did he need it ; he could look within him- self, and there find all the images of nature perfect- ly painted. And Ben Jonson and Fletcher, who were his contemporaries, though their plots were generally more regular, yet the age in which they lived never esteemed them equal with him. As for Mr. Dryden, dramatic poetry was not his talent, though in orle of his pieces, viz. The World Well Lost, he so well joins the regularity of Ben Jonson with the wit of Shakspeare, that I know not whether PREFACE. XXXni it be not the best of all his writings of that kind. Nor must we forget the ingenious Mr. Addison, whose Cato, if we consider the charms of its phrase, the soundness of its moral instructions, the exact- ness of its characters, if it doth not exceed, yet certainly it is equal to any thing that antiquity can produce. Where we may observe, by the way, how good and necessary the favour and encouragement of princes is for the improvement and perfection of arts ; and how all princes who ever encouraged them, thought not this art, in particular, unworthy of their distinguishing smiles. And if it is possible for it to arise yet to a higher perfection, nothing of that nature is not to be hoped for under the auspi- cious smiles of so gTacious a prince as now sways the sceptre of these realms ; who, among the many ex- cellent virtues by which he has distinguished himself from his royal ancestors, this is none of the least, namely, his generous love of learning, discovered by his bounteous encouragement of the learned, and the many books which his majesty is pleased to patronize, whose praise, being unequal to so noble a theme, I shall leave to more skilful pens, — Nee conemur, tenues, grandia. XXXl\r PREFACE. Having now given the reader a short liistory of tragedy from its first infancy to our present times, I novv^ return to the tragedy of the ancients, where I shall mark out the chief excellencies for which they are all most eminent, and the faults for which they are most defective ; and, upon the comparison, shew that of the three Greek tragedians, the pre- ference is due to Sophocles. I shall begin with the definition of perfect tragedy, and then repeat some of the laws of most import of tragic poetry, according to which I shall examine them. Tragedy then is the imitation of an action, that is grave, entire, and hath a just length, of which the style is agreeably relishing, but differently in all its parts, and w^hich, without the assistance of narration, by means of compassion and terror, perfectly re- fines in us all sorts of passion, and whatever else is like them. The imitation of an action is the fable, the man- ners are what distinguish the quality of the action, and the sentiments are the discourses by which they PREFACE. XXXV make known every action, and discover their thoughts. Tragedy, therefore, consists of four es- sential parts, viz. fable, manners, diction, and sen- timents. As for decoration and music they are only added to make the tragedy more agreeable and diverting, and are not at all essential to it. They are not properly the business of the poet, but be- long to other persons employed in the business of the theatre, though JEschylus placed much stress in decoration, for he chose every thing that was frightful. Horror and death were in his paintings seen. First, as to the fable, the composition of causes and incidents which concur to the making up an action is the fable, in which is to be observed unity of these three things, viz. time, place, and action : for, as tragedy is the imitation of one action, so the fable or imitation ought not to exceed the thing imitated. The same may be said of the unity of time and place. These last Sophocles observes ad- mirably well, the longest of all the actions he imitates takes not up above foiir hours. That in the Trachiniae seems to be the longest in any of his pieces, for the time which Hyllus is supposed to c 2 XXXVl PREFACE. take in going from Trachinium to mount Oeta, which was near it, seems to be something considera- ble, and a little more than could well be done in the time of representation ; yet this is what may very well be allowed of, so little time may well be cast into the intervals of action and not be discerned by spectators, who will not pry so narrowly as to dis- cern any absurdity in it. This is far short of that liberty which some of the moderns have taken in this kind, for they will represent your actions which , cannot possibly be done in less than three or four days. How absurd is it to suppose an army to march during the time of action to a certain place of forty or fifty miles distance, where they revolt from their leaders, and the latter are brought in prisoners to the place of action ? And yet this is an oversight which a great poet of this age has been guilty of. Every imitation is more perfect as it is more like the thing imitated. Tragedy is the imita- tion or representation of an action, therefore it necessarily follows that the nearer the time of action comes to the representation of that action, the more perfect the tragedy will be. So far were the ancients persuaded of the necessity of observing this rule, that Euripides in his Suppliants, and iEschylus in PREFACE. XXXVll his Agamemnon, had rather incur some absurdity than transgress it. Unity of place our author, likewise, observes every vs^here, a rule which Shakspeare every where and other moderns often transgress. But, as to that of action, particularly in his Tragedy of Ajax, he is not so exact ; great part of which play consists of a dispute between Teucrus and the Grecian chiefs, whether the body of Ajax shall be buried or not, which is a transgression of this rule. As to the maimers, a good poet ought to take Qare they be such as render the action credible and probable, and such as will let us see what they have actually determined to do in any important and difficult case, before they do it. It is true, no ac- tijon can be without manners, but they are such, for the most part, as necessarily or probably determine the persons to such particular actions : for insjtance^ when Agamemnon sent ambassadors to Achilles, in Homer, we can judge what will be the conse- quence of this embassy, by what the poet hath told us of that hero. It is the same with Sophocles, all which the poet says of the character of Oedipus XXXVlll PREFACE. prepares us for his extravagant passions, and teach- es us to judge what excess his Wind obstinacy will make him commit. On the other hand, Aristotle hath shewn us where Euripides hath offended in the goodness and equality of manner^ : for instance, the manners of Menelaus in his Orestes are bad ; Menelaus arrived at Argos just as they were going to condemn Orestes to death, and Orestes hopes that the arrival of his uncle would secure him from danger. The manners which Euripides then gives him would make us think, that he would not forsake his nephew ; for he says that his calamity and distress obliged him to take the more care of him ; and when Tyndarus pressed to have the prince executed, that he might revenge the death of his daughter, Clytemnestra, he tells him that his long stay among the barbarians had made him one too. Menelaus answers, that he acted in that according to the Grecian education, who always had great considerations for their rela- tions, and thought themselves obliged to do them all possible service : nay, he was so transported as to tell Tyndarus, that anger and old age had made him a fool. Thus are the manners of Menelaus PREFACE. XXXIX well denoted, all that he says is a moral speech ; and seems to intimate that he will take a resolution g^greeable to them : but this is contradicted the next moment, for Menelaus, being terrified at Tyndarus's threats, becomes at once very fearful ; and, coward- like, abandons his nephew. The manners of Iphi- genia, at Aulis, are likewise very bad ; for, (saith Aristotle,) the suppliant Iphigenia, whom we see at the beginning, is not that courageous Iphigenia whom we see at the end. At first she prays in a most slavish manner to her father not to deliver her up to death, and makes a thousand pitiful com- plaints ; and presently after, who is more coura- geous ? Who more in love with glory ? Yea, she begs of her mother that she would let her die for the safety of the Greeks. How far are these from the nianners Sophocles gives Antigone ? For she dies with the same reso- lution and magnanimity with which she at first transgressed that impious decree of Creon, and she appears throughout the whole piece the same An- tigone. His sentinients which denote those manners are here, and every where else in his pieces, agree- able to truth or similitude. As to diction, it is of Xl PREFACE. SO. small importance, that a tragedy is really perfect and entire without it ; and, however flat it be, yet it doth not make the other less perfect. In that our author imitates Homer, from whom he borrows many expressions as well as sentiments ; but this I shall have occasion to speak of hereafter. His fables are most of them of the implex kind, i. e, such as are unravelled, either by a change of fortune alone, as the Antigone ; or remembrance alone, as the Electra ; or, lastly, both by a remem- brance and change of fortune, as the Oedipus Ty- rannus and Trachiniae ; but the Ajax, Oedipus Coloneus, and Philoctetes, are of the simple kind, i, e. such whose unravelling is only a single passage of agitation and trouble ; and the most perfect tragedy of either kind is that which hath only a single catastrophe, ^. e, which exposeth the sufferings of one single person, who, being neither good nor bad in the superlative degree, doth not draw on him his sufferings by his crimes, as in the Oedipus. Euripides, in most of his pieces, has observed this rule, for which reason he was called the most tragi- cal of all the poets, though otherwise he was not so correct as Sophocles, PREFACE. Xli His manners (as has been shewn before) are very unequal; the songs of his Chorus are sometimes foreign to the subject in hand, an error which So- phocles never ran into contrary to that rule of Horace, — Nee quid medios intercinat actus. Quod non proposito conducat et hcertat apte. For nothing we between the acts should see, Rut with the play exactly will agree. Now, though the most perfect sort of tragedy be that whose catastrophes are single, as in Oedipus, which exposes the unhappiness of one man, who is less wicked than good; and not double, as the Electra, whose catastrophe is fortunate for the good, and unhappy for the bad ; yet there have been many pieces which have succeeded tolerably well, as the Philoctetes of Sophocles, the Suppliants of -^schy- lus, Heraclides, Helena, and Ion, of Euripides. Yet were they far from that perfection which Ari- stotle requires, nor did the success of them last so long as of those which were composed according to the former rule. Yet every one of the Greek tra- gedians, in their different ways, have discovered a singular majesty in their art. Xlii PRfi*FACB. This is what Cicero hath observed in his third book De Oratore, Quam infer se ^schylus, Sophor^ elesy Euripides, dissimiles sint ; quanquam omnibus par pene laus in dissimili scrihendi genere trihuatur. How different are ^schylus, Sophocles, and Eu- ripides, from one another ; and yet they all deserve almost equal praise, in their different ways of writing. iEschylus succeeded very well in his simple tra- gedies, i. e. those which expose to view the un- happiness of one particular person, as his Prome- theus, and his Seven Captains of Thebes : but was not so good at his implex, as his Agamemnon and Choephori. On the other hand, Euripides, though hjB succeeded very well in his implex pieces, yet his chief excellence consisted in his moral, i, e. those which expose to view the happiness of some person ; which, though they be opposite to the rule above- mentioned, which Aristotle hath laid down for the composition of perfect tragedy, yet there he mixeth the passions so admirably well, that they are prefer- able to those whose catastrophes are unfortunate, notwithstanding these are more tragical than the other. PREFACE. xliii But Sophocles, in his implex pieces, i. e. his Oedi- pus, Electra, &c. excelled them all; for which, as well as his other excellencies, we may conclude he is the best of all the Greek tragedians. For his ex- cellency in general he is commended both by an- cients and modems. Virgil, comparing the trage- dies of Pollio to those of Sophocles, has these words :■ — En erit ut liceat totum mihiferre per oi'bem. Sola Sophocleo iua carmina digna cothurno. Polemon calls him Homerus Tragicus, the tragic Homer, as Diogenes, Laertius witnesseth, Lib. iv. And if we may believe the same author, he was sumamed apis, i. e. a bee, for the sweetness of his language. He was perfectly acquainted with the writings of Homer, to whom he is indebted for the unravelling of the Electra, which was borrowed from that of the Odyssey, where Penelope laments for Ulysses, who was present with her, whom she supposed to be absent, and who is soon discovered to her. His description of the chariot-course, in the same Xliv PREFACE. piece, is a perfect imitation of that which Homer gives of the chariot-course, wherewith Achilles ho- noured the funeral of Patroclus, in the 23d Iliad. The character of Pyrrhus, in the Philoctetes, is drawn according to the notion the poet had of his father, Achilles, as his character is represented in Homer ; for he hath given him some of his manners, viz. that he scorned to stoop to so mean an action as to deceive Philoctetes with a lie, though it were for his advantage ; and though at first he conde- scended to it, his mind could not be at rest till he Ixad made reparation for it. And Homer represents Achilles saying,^ — Ep^G^o? yx^ (AOi Tiiivoq c/xw? atdao icv'k'na'iv "Oq X ^'te^o" y-^v y.tvQv) Iv* (p^Ecr]v, olhT^o §i ^otQu. Iliad. ». His character of Thersites is taken from the se- cond Iliad, where likewise Ulysses is introduced rebuking and beating him for his saucy language to Agamemnon. And it were no difficult matter to instance where he useth Homer's thoughts and ex- pressions ; and his so exact imitation of Homer is the reason why he is so inimitable himself. Mr. Boileau, in a particular place, where he is about PREFACE. Xlv giving us the history of tragedy, hath these follow- ing lines in his commendation : — Then Sophocles, the genius of his age. Increased the pomp and beauty of the stage. Engaged the Chorus' song in every part. And polished rugged verse by rules of art. He, in the Greek, did those perfections gain. Which the weak Latins never could obtain. Mr. Dry den, speaking of the tragedy of Oedipus, in particular, says, Sophocles, indeed, is admirable every where; and in his prologue to his Oedipus :.r- When Athens all the Grecian state did guide. And Greece gave laws to all the world beside; Then Sophocles with Socrates did sit Supreme, in wisdom one, and one in wit. These testimonies are sufficient to shew the repu- tation Sophocles had before our times, and how he ought always to be esteemed by persons of the most sound judgment, and refined taste for polite learn- ing. And pity it is that of the hundred and twenty tragedies that admirable tragedian wrote, the injury of time has deprived u^ of all except these seven. Xlvi PREFACE. This, therefore, may suffice to have been said | concerning Sophocles's tragedies, both because I here only design to give the reader a general ac- ( count of what I thought proper to be known before the reading of them, and not to lay down all the rules of an art, of which there are so many excel- lent treatises extant : as, Aristotle, with Mr. Da- cier's notes, Mr. Gildon, Gerard Vossius, &c. and because I have, in my notes, pointed out, in their proper places, what I thought most worthy my observation. In my translation I have endeavoured to avoid as much as possible these two extremes ; ^. e. neither by aiming at too florid a style to deviate too far from the original, nor yet, by keeping too close to the original, (which Horace calls too faithfully transla- ting,) render the phrase too low and bald ; that, by that means, it might be helpful to the learners of the Greek language, as well as others. And, to that end, I had, through the whole course of this work, those words of Horace in my mind :— Nee verbum verho curabis reddere fidus. And a little after, PREFACE. xlvii Ne Migret in obscuras humili sermone tabernas ; Aut (him vital humum, nubes et inania captet. And those of the learned and reverend Doctor Pearce, in the preface to his excellent edition of Longinus, only changing the word Latina'^nto Anglicana. Velim interpretemjidum esse, non sui ostentatorem: sit modo dictio ejus Anglicana, sint verba sensum Grceci authoris clare hreviterque exprimentia, non qucero an versio ornatum prce se ferat, i. e. I would have an interpreter be faithful, not a boaster of his art; let but his diction be good English, clearly and shortly expressing the sense of the Greek au- thor ; I desire not that his version be full of fine language. In my notes I have not scrupled to make bold with some of Mr. Dacier's remarks upon Aristotle ; Doctor Potter's Archaeologia Graeca, and other authors, when I found them conducive to my pur- pose. Yet most of the notes are my own, and if I have made upon any passage some remarks whidi have been made before, I either inform the reader of Xlviii PREFACE. it, if I know it ; and, if not, it is purely accidental that 1 happen to have the same thoughts with others concerning the same thing. As to this performance, if the reader finds in it any faults, — Quas aut incuriafudit, Aut humana parum cavit natura, I hope, in his own humanity, he will not aggravate or insist upon them to my condemnation. I have made it my endeavour every where to give the tru€ sense of. my author, and, if therein I have failed, it is no more than what others have done before me in works of this nature, who are much my superiors ; and that too, without the fault of them, but of the editors, and false glosses of commentators. THE TRAGEDY OF AJAX mv^mati^ ^er^Duae. Minerva. Ulysses. Ajax. Teucrus. ' > the two Atridae. Agamemnon, S Tecmessa, Ajax's Captive, whom he married. EuRYSACES, Ajax's son by Tecmessa. A Messenger from Teucrus. Two Semi-choruses. Chorus of Salaminian Sailors. SCENE'-The Grecian Camp before Troy, near the Tent of Ajax. A J A X. The Argument. — After the death of Achilles^ Ajax and Ulysses contending for his armoury the matter was referred to the other Grecian chiefs, who adjudged it to the latter, as the worthier of the two. Whereupon Ajax, fired with rage at this indignity, resolved to satisfy his revenge hy killing those, as he thought, corrupt judges. But being, hy the Goddess Minerva, struck with madness for his contempt of her assistance, he turns all his rage against the flocks and herds which the Grecians had taken from the Trojans, and their keepers, killing and wounding them in a most ridiculously barbarous manner ; thinking all the time that he used the Atridce so. But when he came to himself, and considered the action as it really was, ridiculous and mean, and unworthy the glory of his own and father's name, the grief and shame thereof drove him to despair, and that to murder himself. This subject hath employed the pens of several tragedians before Sophocles; as JEschylus, who wrote a tragedy upon it, whose title was the Judgment of Arms ; and among the Romans, Pacuvius and Accius, and this of Sophocles is only a sequel of the same subject. For the nature of this tragedy it is simple, in opposition to implexa, that is, it continues from the beginning to the end without any change of fortune ; for, as Ajax at the beginning of it is in grief for what he had done, so it ends with his death and burial. ACT I. Scene I,— The Grecian Camp near the Tent of Ajax, where Ulysses stands prying about it, and the Voice of Minerva is heard in the Air. Min. "" O, son of ^ Laertes, I have always found * O son, <5fc.] The occasion of Minerva's appearance here is very important, and worthy the presence of a deity; namely, to inform Ulysses of what had been done by Ajax the night before in his madness ; which it was impossible should be known without divine assistance : for which reason it is every way agreeable to Horace's rule. Nee Deus intersit, nisi dignus vindice nodus fnciderit. Yet if the goddess could have contrived some other way to discover this action to Ulysses, which she might certainly have done, I am afraid Aristotle's rule will be against him. Art. Poet, cap. 16. " The unravelling of the subject (saith he; ought to be *' taken from the subject itself, without making use of any ** machine ; or, if it be made use of, it ought to be out of the " action of the tragedy ; either to explain some things which " happened before, and which it is impossible for man to know, " or, to inform of something which will happen, concerning which " it is necessary to be instructed." For it was possible that Ulysses by the terror of some frightful dream sent by the goddess might rise up and surprise Ajax in the very fact ; as Queen Atossa by such a terror met the lords of Susa after Xerxes's defeat, or Ulysses according to his usual manners being watchful against dangers might have seen him by accident, yet such as the goddess might be supposed to have contrived ; if either of these, or any other way might have been contrived, without her personal ap- pearance, then Sophocles, according to Aristotle, hath failed. Yet (as Mr. Dacier observes) Aristotle was too severe ; for, says he, if the presence of a deity be absolutely necessary for the unravel- ling a plot, I see no reason why it should not be used although it be in the action : and we shall find but very fiew pieces among the ancients managed according to this rule, not even the Iphigeuia Taurica, Helena, Ion, and Electra of Euripides. For which reason Horace moderated this rule, and was content to say, ^ec Deus intersit, Sfc, ^ O son of Laertes.] Ulysses was the supposed son of Laertes, B 2 4 AJAX. thee, with ' watchful eyes, prevent those plots tliy enemies have formed, and turn them on their im- pious authors heads ; and now I see thee among the naval tents of Ajax, where he keeps the outmost guards, searching and tracing his newly-impressed steps, to see whether he be within or not ; thy search of him is certain as a Spartan hound's scent of the game. The man is now within, the sweat drops from his head, and murdering hands. Thou hast no business to look in at the gate, but to tell on what account thou searchest thus diligently, that thou mayest hear of me who know all the truth. ijlys. O voice of Minerva, well known to me though thou art not seen, most kind to me of all the goddesses, I both hear thy voice, and well discern it ; for as the sound of a brazen mouth ^ Tyrrhene trumpet surpasseth all others, so doth thy voice most delightfiU salute my ears. And now you know 1 walk here on account of ' valiant Ajax, for him King of Ithaca, a country in Greece, and very much famed for his wisdom and other virtues, according to Horace, Ep. 2. Lib. 1. Rursus, quid virtus et quid sapientia possit. Utile proposuit nobis exemplar Ulyssem. He was the best of all the Grecian commanders except Achilles; but, according to Ulysses himself, Ajax was likewise his superior, though that might be said by him out of modesty, for it is plain the other Grecian chiefs thought not so. ^ With watchful eyes.] Gr. %^ci;[xoi^yoy, as hunting, a metaphor taken from the practice of sportsmen, to find out their game by tract and scent of dogs. This figurative expression denotes the diligence of Ulysses in finding out the authors of the slaughter. ^ Tyrrhene trumpet.] It was so called because it was invented by the Tyrrhenians, from whom it was communicated to the Grecians by one Arichondas, who came to assist the posterity of Hercules : others attribute the invention of it to Tyrrhenus, son of Hercules. Its orifice was cleft, and it sent out an exceeding loud and shrill sound. Therefore Ulysses here compares it to the goddess Minerva's voice. ^ Valiant Ajax.] The Greek is ''A^xvl^ rZ a-ccHiatpo^cj, this epi- thet was peculiar to Ajax, according to Homer, who hath "A*ac ^(ps^uv ffOiKo^, Ajax who bearelh a shield. AJAX. O and none else I sought out long: and this night he hath done a secret act, but how it was done we are not certain, but still wander in doubtfulness; and willingly I undertook this work, for we now find all our prey destroyed and killed by hands with the keepers of the flock : ^ every one lays the fault on him, and a certain spy hath declared that he saw him skipping over the fields, with his sword dropping with blood which he had newly shed. Immediate- ly I followed those steps, and some reasons induce me to charge the fault on him, but others make me doubt, so that I cannot certainly understand whose deeds these were, but thou art come in season to my aid, for, in every enterprise I take in hand, I am directed by thy governance. Min. I know it, Ulysses ; and therefore went out in thy way, to be assisting to thee in thy search. Ulys. And, dear goddess, do I undertake this labour to good purpose ? Min, Yes ; since the actions of this man concern thee. Ulys, And why hath he put his hand to so unac- countable an action ? Min, Being incensed with anger for the arms of Achilles. Vlys, But why doth he offer violence to flocks ? Min, Thinking that in your blood he imbrues his murdering hand. Ulys. And is that his design; doth he think he commits this slaughter on the Grecians ? Min. And he had perfected it, but for my care. Ulys. But wdth what impudence fraught and boldness of mind dare he commit that action ? ^ Every one lays the fault.] Here is an instance of the extra- ordinary justice of Ulysses, that he was unwilling to believe what was charged against Ajax, without the clearest evidence : for he was so amazed at so unexpected a report, that he could not believe it without the positive information of the goddess. O AJAX. Min. A treacherous night-wanderer, alone he rushed upon you. Ulys. Was he near us? Min. At the door of the general's tent. Ulys. How did he restrain his raging hand from murder? Min. It was I who quelled his transports of joy, and cast before his eyes a mist that he could not discern right from wrong, and so I turned all his rage against the flocks and cattle, a promiscuous prey, which the herdsmen kept together, where, fall- ing on, he made a slaughter among the horned cat- tle, killing all round, and thought that with his own hand he killed the two Atridae ; and that he rushed now upon one of the commanders, now upon another : but I coming, pushed on the furious man, with a mad disease, into inextricable ills ; and after when he ceased from slaughter, binding again some living oxen with chains, he brings them into his tent, as if they were so many men, and not a prey of horned cattle, and now within the tent he scourgeth them. But I will shew thee evident signs of his disease, that when you see it you may carry the news to all the Grecians. Now be of courage, nor receive him as a dangerous man, or think his sight unfortunate ; for I will turn away his eyes from the sight of thee. You; I call you to come out, who bind captive-hands in chains; I call Ajax, come hither from thy tent. Ulys. What dost thou do, Minerva? By no means call him out. Min. Wilt thou not be silent? Wilt thou not banish fear? Ulys. By the gods, let it suffice he stay within. Min. Why must not he come? Was he not a man before, when he designed your death ! Ulys. Still now he is an enemy to me. AJAX. 7 Min. s Is it not most delightful sport to laugh at ones enemies ? Ulys. It will satisfy me that he should stay within his tent. Min. It is plain thou fearest to see a madman. Ulys. I would not refuse to see him in his senses. Min. But he shall not see thee when he is present. Ulys. How ? if he sees with the same eyes. Min. I will cast a mist before his eyes. Ulys. Let all be done by the contrivance of the goddess. Min. Stand silently as thou art. Ulys. Though I stay, yet had I rather be absent. Min. Ho! you, I call thee, Ajax; why so little dost thou revere thy helper? ACT I. SCENE II. Minerva^ Ajax, Ulysses. Aj. Hail, Minerva, hail, Daughter of Jove ! well art thou present, and I will crown thee with golden spoils for thy assistance in this hunting. Min. Thou hast well said, but tell me this ; hast thou well stained thy sword in Grecian blood ? Aj. There is reason for boasting, I do not deny it. Min. Hast thou used thy power against the Atridae ? Aj. Ay, so that they shall never dishonour Ajax more. Min. They are dead, as I understand thy words. Aj. Now dead, let them take away my armour. 2 Is it not a most delightful sport.] Minerva here as a goddess takes that liberty of talking, which would have been unbecoming another, to shew the placable temper of Ulysses, which was not to delight in the misfortunes of his enemies. 3 AJAX. Min, Be it so. What of the son of Laertes; in what state is he ? Hath he escaped ? Aj, That crafty fox; dost thou ask me where he is? Min. I mean Ulysses, thy adversary. Aj. Adored goddess, he is bound within ; I will not haTe him die yet. Min. What more wouldst thou do ? Or what more gain ? Aj. First bound to thq pillar of the tent. Min. What harm wouldst thou do the miserable man? Aj. After I have made his back bleed with a scourge, then he shall die. Min. Do not so afflict the wretch. Aj. In other things, Minerva, I suffer thee to triumph ; but he shall suffer this, and no other punishment. Min. Thou, therefore, since it is thy pleasure to do this, use thy power, spare to do nothing of what thou conceivest. Aj. I go to the work, in this I obey thee. And mayest thou be ever such an assister to me. ACT I. SCENE III. Minerva, Ulysses. Min. ^Thou seest, Ulysses, the power of the gods, how great it is : who was more prudent than ^ Thou seest f Ulysses.] She instructs him, by the example of Ajax, never to oppose the gods, which he had done in three in- st A vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. By this we see that the first design of the theatre was not merely to amuse men unprofitably, but likewise to instruct them by rational and wholesome precepts. ^ O son of Telamon.] Horace, in his Art of Poetry, recites the several offices of the Chorus in these words : Hie bonis faveatque, et concilietur amicis, Et refi^at iratoSf et amet peccare timentes : Ille dapes laudet mensce brevis ; ille salubrem Justiiiam, Sfc, And Sophocles, in every one of his tragedies, strictly obser\'es 10 AJAX. time island of Salamis, I rejoice at thy prosperity ; but, when a blow from Jove, or any hostile speech of the Grecians spitefully uttered sullies thy honour, I am seized with as great concern and fear, ^ as the timorous dove at the approach of danger. So the last night great terror seized me, caused by an ill report that thou, ^ raging with madness, entering the pasture, didst destroy the cattle of the Grecians, the spoils taken in war, and slew them with sword in hand. Ulysses, framing these backbiting tales, conveys them to the ears of all, and well succeeds, and speaks things that appear credible of thee ; and eveiy one who hears him rejoices much, insulting your griefs. The " darts of envy soonest hit great souls : if any said such things against me, he would not gain belief; but riches always expose men to envy. The small, without the assistance of the great, are a weak defence to themselves ; for, if the great are supported by those of low degree, much more are the poor sup- ported by the great. But it is not possible that even the most inconsiderate men should believe the truth of this report, for the babbling of such men : we can be of no assistance to thee in this matter, but, when they see thy countenance, they tremble as the flocks of birds who fly for fear of the great vulture. these rules in the songs, and other parts of the Chorus, of which this is one proof ; for the Chorus here, which consisted of Sala- minian countrymen, and subjects of Ajax, are unwilling to be- lieve the foul report, but rather impute it to the envy of the Grecians; and, through the whole piece, conceive joy or grief from the good or ill fortune of their king. ^ As the timorous dove.] The scholiast notes here, that doves are a very timorous animal, and that when any noise affrights them they shut their eyes. ^ Raging with madness.] Gr. lirirofAuvr^j mad as a horse. The scholiast notes here, that the madness of horses is the most fierce of any kind of creature. "" Darts of envy soonest hit great souls.] As archers with most ease hit the greatest mark, so the tongue of calumny soonest AJAX. 11 Strophe I. " Surely Diana, daughter of Jove, who is wor- shipped in Scythia, (O, great fame, thou mother of our disgrace,) thrust thee on upon the pubHc herds of cattle, probably for having not received the tri- bute due to her of thanks and praise for the victory in which she assisted thee; or defrauded of her part of noble spoils taken in hunting; or Mars, whose breast is always armed with brass, and his attending god, Enyalius, by nightly contrivances, revenged the affront. Antistrophe I. For never in thy right senses, O son of Telamon, thou wouldst have done such imprudent actions, so fallen upon flocks. Some distemper which the gods inflict might cause it; but may Jove and Apollo avert the sad report; or if the great commanders of the army deceived believe these reports, or come wounds the greatest. This kind of comparison of fame to a can Don is made by our own Shakspeare, in Hamlet, Act IV. Scene I Come, Gertrude, we^ll call up our wisest friends, And let them know both what we mean to do And what's untimely done: perhaps* fame. Whose whisper o'er the world's diameter. As level as the cannon to his blank, Transports his poison'd shot, may miss our name. And hit the woundless air. " Surely, Diana, daughter of Jove, who is worshipped in Scythia.l This may be understood of Diana, the goddess and patroness of hunters, who is worshipped in Taurus, a place in Scythia: or the moon, which turns people to madness ; she being, as is well known, the same with Diana and Proserpine, only dif- ferently called in respect of her different functions. This the Chorus speaks out of benevolence to Ajax, that if he did this fact, it could not be out of a well-weighed judgment and sound mind, but moon-struck phrenzy, or some extraordinary cause. • Which, Mr. Theobald says, hath been erroneously left out in printing. 12 AJAX. they from the vile ''son of Sisyphus, no longer, O king ! hiding thy head — in the naval tents, endure it. Epode. But rise from that place where you are long fixed in ease, apt to breed more strife, M^hile you provoke divine vengeance; but the injuries of thy enemies succeed against thee p without opposition, while with their tongues they utter heavy reproaches ; but grief oppresseth me. ACT II. SCENE I. Tecmessa, Chorus. Tec. "" O ship-companions of Ajax, *^ Athenians by ** Son of Sisj/phus.] The Chorus means Ulysses, who was son of Anticlea, and Sisyphus, king of Corinth. Sisyphus was the most subtle of men, he engraved his name on the hoofs of his cattle, so that none could discern it but himself: Autolycus, who lived by theft, changed the shape of every thing he had stole, and stealing Sisyphus's cattle, he changed them likewise : but, not- withstanding this, Sisyphus, knowing his inscription, challenged his cattle; whereupon Autolycus kindly received him, and pros- tituted to him his daughter Anticlea, of whom he begat Ulysses, but he, being brought up with Laertes, was called his son. P Without opposition.'^ Gr. Iv tvccvBi/,oiq ^aaa-uK;. In valleys exposed to the wind ; i. e. it runs like wildfire. *i O ship- companions.] Here the poet introduces Tecmessa, giving an account of what Ajax had done; and likewise the Cho- rus informs her, that the cattle which he had slain belonged to the Grecians : so, by informing each other of what they were igno- rant of before, are confirmed in the belief of the report which Ulysses spread, which he received from Minerva. Tecmessa was the captive bride of Ajax, and therefore may well be supposed to shew the same concern for him as Briseis did for Achilles. *■ Athenians hy descent y we mourn, being.] This the poet says» only to attract the benevolence of the audience, who consisted of Athenians when this piece was first acted. For though Salamis was near Athens, yet they were different countries ; nor can I see why they have a title to be called Athenians, because Telamort AJAX. 13 descent, we mourn, being careful for the welfare of Telamon's son, far from his country; for now the terrible, the great, and brave Ajax, lies overwhelmed in a storm of woe. Cho, What grief hath the night produced to damp his former joy? Thou daughter of Phrygian Teleu- tas, since valiant Ajax preserving thee, keeps thee as his captive bride, so that from thy knowledge thou may est speak. Tec. How should I speak what is not to be ut- tered? For you would hear of sorrow equal to death; for the noble Ajax, seized with madness, in the night hath offended : this you may know ; be- hind the tent cattle slain with hands, all stained with blood, the ruins wrought by this man, witness his crime. Strophe. Cho. What report dost thou bring of this furious man, intolerable and yet undeniable, before spread by the great army of the Grecians, which much dis- course spreads farther ? Woe is me ! I fear the ap- proaching ill ; for this illustrious man will die with his self-smiting hand, after he hath slain the cattle with his bloody sword; and the keepers of the flocks. Tec. Woe is me ! He is come hither bringing cap- tive beasts, whereof he hath slain one within upon the ground ; others striking, he hath divided in two, taking two white rams, of one he hath, as a mower, cut off the head and tongue, and hath flung it away ; tying another to a pillar, and taking a great horse- whip, he whips him dismally with a double cord, was of -^gina, near that country, as the scholiast would fain per- suade us. If b\ the words n ^t uiyivccy t?? arJixj)?, he means iEgina, Telamon's grandmother, she was daughter of ^sopus, King of Bopotia, which was divided from Attica by the hill Cytheron. 14 AJAX. reproaching with vile words, which some evil demon, and no man, hath taught him. Antistropiie. Cho, Now is it time that every one of us should veil his head, and privately take flight, or else speedily embark, and launching out our ships, sail with a fall career. The two Atridae thunder such threats against us, 'I fear being stoned to death, lest we should suffer punishment with him whom inevita- ble madness hath seized. Tec. He rageth no more, but ceaseth as the fierce south wind, if the lightnings cease to flash : and now grown wise, new grief possesseth him. For the consideration of evils, caused by ourselves when we have none else on whom we can charge them, is most afflicting. Cho. But if he hath ceased from his madness, then I think we are happy. For, since the evil is vanished, we have the less reason to be concerned. Tec. Whether if any should grant the choice, wouldst thou chuse to afflict thy friends, while thou thyself art in pleasure, or to be in the same common calamity with them ? Cho. The two-fold evil is the greatest. Tec. Therefore Ajax, though in his senses, is miserable. Cho. What is that thou hast said? I know not what thou sayest. Tec. When this man was afflicted with his disease, he was pleased with those evils in which he was plunged; but aflOiicted us who were sensible, with sorrow: but now that he hath ceased, and breathed from his disease, he is quite changed with sudden ^ I fear being stoned to death.] Gr. 'mi(po^Y,iA,a,i Xicr^o'Ktvroy a,^r,v, I fear Mars the stoner. The word a^n^, both here and in many other places in Sophocles, signifies deatii. AJAX. 15 grief, but we are no otherwise than before : these are therefore two evils instead of one. Cho. I agree with thee, and fear, least a blow should come from some god, and strike us. But how, if he is free from his disease, is he no more satisfied than when he was diseased? Tec, You must be informed how tlie case was. Cho. How did the mischief begin? declare it to us, since we are partakers in the giief. Tec. You shall know the whole matter, as being partaker in the sorrow. Towards the end of the night, when the * evening lamps no longer shined, taking his two-edged sword, he sought vain pre- tences to go out. I blamed him, and said what dost thou, Ajax? Why, unbidden, nor called by any of the messengers, dost thou attempt thus to go out, nor alarmed by the trumpet's voice, but now when the whole army sleeps. He spoke to me what was short, but usually said silence is an ornament to women. Then, hearing this, I ceased, but he rushed out alone, nor can I say what he did there ; but he came in leading bulls tied together, dogs which guarded the flocks, and a prey of horned cattle. Some he decollated, turning others upside down, he slew and "dissected, others he beat as captives, thus raging against the herd ; then rushing forth to the door, he held discourse "with some sha- dow; now against the Atridae, now speaking of Ulysses, uttering many ridiculous speeches, men- tioning how great an injury he repaid them : then, * Lamps no longer shined.] i.e. When the evening stars shone no longer ; or, rather, when the lamps that were set up in the evening, to give light in the camp, went out. " With some shadow.] Here, Tecraessa, not knowing that the goddess Minerva talked with Ajax, imputes his hastening out of his tent when he was called by her, and his discoursing with her, to his madness ; for mad folks usually either talk to themselves or with their own shadow. 16 AJAX. rushing in again to the tent ; in a while he returned to himself, and when he saw the tent full of ruins he had made, striking his breast, he roared out, and sate down among the slaughtered sheep, and holding his hair fast in his finger nails, he sate a great while speechless ; at last he uttered dismal threats against me, unless I shewed how every mis- fortune happened, and inquired in what he had been employed ; and I, friends, out of fear, gave him a perfect relation of all that had passed, as far as I knew. He presently made the whole tent re- sound with dismal cries, such as I never heard be- fore from him, for he always reckoned such lamen- tations proper only to weak and faint spirits. Dis- daining, therefore, such shrill cries, he used to roar out like a bellowing bull. But now, afflicted with such a sad misfortune, without eating or drinking, among the cattle, slain with the sword, he sits down, and he is certainly prepared to do some desperate deed, he speaks such things, and utters such complaints. "" But, O, friends, I beseech you (for, for this cause I came out) go in and help him, if you can in ought, for such men are prevailed upon by their friends. Cho. O, Tecmessa, daughter of Teleutas, thou tellest us terrible news, that Ajax is mad in his misfortunes. Aj. Woe is me 1 Tec. Presently he will cry louder, have you not heard? ^ Aj. Woe is me ! * But, O friends, I beseech you go in and help him.] The contrivance of the poet is admirable here, who, in order to bring Ajax to shew his grief upon the stage, introduceth first Tecmessa, begging the assistance of the Chorus to comfort Ajax, as being abler to do it than she, who was but a weak woman and a cap- tive ; then, lest the Chorus should go out for that purpose, sup- poseth Ajax to bawl out from within. AJAX. 17 Cho. The man seems to be still afflicted with his disease, or grieved with the remembrance of his former madness. J^. O son, son! Tec, Woe is me a wretch ! Hurysaces, he bawls out for thee. What doth he desire with all this earnestness ? Aj. y I call Teucrus, where is Teucrus ? Will he ever be chasing his prey, while I perish] Cho. The man seems to be sensible, open the door, perhaps he will have some discretion when he sees me. Tec. ^Behold, I open, you may see his actions, and in what case he is. ACT II. SCENE II. Ajax, Tecmessa, Chorus. Ajax. Woe is me, friends and ship-companions, and only of all my friends who persevere in the strict law of friendship. ^ You see how waves, as y I call Teucrus."] Ajax, having determined with himself not to survive the disgrace of killing the cattle, calls for Teucrus to commit to him the care of his child after bis decease. This, sup- posing the absence of Teucrus was very suitable to the purpose of the poet ; for, had he been at home, he would have been a curb to Ajax's rage of grief. There is much the same conduct observed in the Electra, where ^gisthus is supposed to be in the fields, which gives a better opportunity to Electra to utter her complaints before the spectators, and so to move their compas- sion, which is one great end of tragedy. * Behold, I open y you may see.] Here is represented to the view of the spectators, Ajax, all bloody, lying, with his bloody sword, among the slaughtered cattle ; a circumstance very moving. * You see how waves.] Ajax here, in order to shew the great- ness of his calamity, makes use of a figurative representation of it, drawn from things most familiar to sailors, viz. the violent agitation of the waves after a storm. C 18 AJAX. a ship beaten by a terrible storm, exercise all their fury against me. Cho, Woe is me! How true what thou hast at- tested now appears, the thing is plain, that he is beside himself. Aj. Woe is me ! Ye race of men, assistants in the naval art, who sailed hither rowing the oars in the sea, you alone I have found, of all the chiefs, regarding me; now all of you together rid me of my wretched life. Cho. Speak good words I pray, ^ lest, applying a bad remedy to a bad disease, you bring upon your- self a worse evil than the former. Aj. Thou seest me a brave stout-hearted man, and undaunted in battles of war, now dreadful with my hands among innocent cattle; woe is me, what slaughter have I made? How have I made myself a reproach ? Tec, O, my lord Ajax, I beseech you say not so. Aj, "" Wilt thou not go hence ? Alas ! alas ! Cho. By the gods, submit and be wise. Aj. O, unfortunate wretch that I am, who let go from my hand those villains, and falling upon inno- cent oxen and goats, spilt their black blood. Cho, Why shouldest thou grieve for what is done, for it cannot be undone ? Aj. O, thou who seest all things, and art the instrument of all mischief, the most filthy varlet of the army, now how dost thou laugh at me, what pleasure dost thou take ? ^ Lest applying,^ i. e. Strive not to hasten on your death, which will be an evil worse than your disease of madness. ^ Wilt thou not go hence.] Tecmessa continuing to break in upon the discourse which Ajax holds with the Chorus, he desires her to retire into the tent, not out of contempt, as being his cap- tive, but familiarity, as his wife. AJAX. 19 Cho. '^ Every one laughs or mourns by God's permission. Aj. O, that I might see him though thus afflicted ; woe is me ! Cho. Speak nothing great ; seest thou not to what evil thou art come ? Aj, O Jupiter, the father of my ancestors, that I could first destroy that flattering enemy, that vaga- bond, and the other two princes, and at last die myself. Tec. Since you pray for such things, pray like- wise that I may die ; why should I live when thou art dead ? Aj. O my light, now darkness, that shone on me, now dark as hell, take, O take me an inhabitant to your gloomy regions, for 1 cannot look to the race of gods or meek men for assistance ; but the power- ful daughter of Jove persecutes me to death. Whither can I flee? Where shall I rather remain? For my misfortunes destroy me, and we are undone with that foolish prey ; and the whole army on every side w ith all their power will destroy me. Tec. Woe is me : so great a man to say such things now, as before he w ould have disdained to say! Aj. O brooks that flow into the sea, and caves and forests near the shore, long time you have kept me at Troy, but no longer with breath you shall. O neighbouring streams of Scamander favouring the Argives, you shall no more see me.^ ^ I speak a ^ Every one laughs.] As all things are by the permission of the gods, who often turn bad actions to good ends, so likewise that Ulysses should sport himself with your misfortunes is by their permission. '^ I speak a bold word.] In the condition Ajax was, it was not unseemly for him to boast of his greatness, but it rather increaseth the passion of the tragedy. Thus in the Trachinia?, Hercules near his death boasted in these words : — c 2 20 AJAX. bold word, such a one as Troy never saw in the army which came from the Grecian land, and now dishonoured I lie here. Cho. I know not how to hinder thee, or suffer thee to speak, being plunged in so much evil. Aj, ^ Ah ! who could think my name should thus agree with my evils ? Now is it time for me thrice to lament, being plunged into so many miseries: 8 whose father from the land of Idaea having done the noblest deeds in war, came home loaded with honours ; but I, his son, came to this place, not with less strength endowed, nor famed for less achieve- ments; now dishonoured of the Grecians, here I perish : ^ and so much I think I know, if living Achilles were to decide the controversy of the armour, and to adjudge to either the precedence in valour, none else should have them but me. But now the Atridae allowed wisdom as proper only to >^sovl , OiTiXi^ov B^e{/,jxa, xaTT^ocrjjJo^av, &C. The Njpostle St. Paul himself did the same, when he said, 2 Tim. iv. 6. ** I am now ready to be offered, and the time of mv *' departure is at hand, I have fought a good fight," &c. ^ Ah ! who could think my name.] Here is what we call a pun, which Ajax makes upon his own name, whose two first letters are the same with al, a word of sorrow. This I fear is scarce becoming the gravity of this kind of poem. 2 Whose father from the land.] His father Telamou, assisting Hercules in his wars against Troy, was the first who mounted the wall : wherefore Hercules gave him ra m^ura xaXXtr£<«, the chief reward, which was Hesione daughter of Laomedon. The occa- sion of this war was, because Laomedon denied to give Hercules the two white horses he was to have had as a reward of his valour in slaying the sea-monster, and delivering Hesione, who was to have been devoured by him. * And so much I think I know.] Observe all along, how Ajax's discourse savours of the pride and haughtiness of his spirit. AJAX. 21 that crafty Ulysses, ' slighting my virtues : unless my eyes and mind had diverted me from my reso- lution, they had never passed a judgment against any other man ; but now the terrible, the invincible goddess, daughter of Jove, hath deceived me, when I stretched out my hand against them, inflicting on me a violent disease, so that in the blood of those oxen I stained my hand, but the Atridae, having escaped against my will, deride me. But when God opposeth, the weak may escape the stronger ; and now what must I do, who apparently am hated of the gods? The Grecian army hates me, all Troy hates me, and the neighbouring country. Shall I go home and leave the ports wherein my ships are harboured, and the Atridae to themselves, and sail home over the jEgean sea? Whrirt fame can I shew my father Telamon ? How will he en- dure to see me returned empty and without noble spoils, with which he once went ladeR home? That is not to be borne. But what if I go to the Trojan guards arid attacking them by myself fall in some brave action ? But there I should gratify the Atridae ; it never shall be : but some action must be attempted, and such whereby I may shew my old father that I am no degenerate coward. It is the certain sign of a base spirit, to covet a long life which is attended with many troubles. What com- fort can there be in a multitude of days which only serve to defer desired death? And I look upon liim as the vilest of wretches who encourageth him- self with fruitless hopes ; but it becomes a generous man bravely to live, or as bmvely to die in the pursuit of glory ; thou hast heard the sum of what I had to say. Cho. Nobody can say, my lord, that thou hast ' Slighting my viriuts.'] The Greek is kv^^oq thIi^ of this rnau, meaning himself, a way of speaking very familiar with Sophocles. 22 AJAX. spoke unlike thyself: ^ yet cease from this fury of thy mind, and let the judgment of thy friends pre- vail, and lay aside those cares. Tec. O my lord Ajax, no greater evils can afflict mankind than fortune's malice often lays upon us. I am descended of a free father, and the most vrealthy of the Phrygians, but now^ I am a servant, for so the gods and your victorious hand would have it ; but, since I w^as raised to your bed, you are the only object of my love. Therefore I beseech you by domestic Jove, and by "" our marriage bed, which makes us one, suffer me not to endure a re- proach among thy enemies ; for, if thou wilt die and leave me, be assured that I in that day shall be dragged away with indignity by the Grecians to live a servile life, together with thy child. And some harsh master will bitterly reproach me, whose spleen shall dictate words like these : " Behold the con- *' cubine of Ajax, who was the most powerful " prince in ail the army, what servitude doth she " now endure instead of how much honour?" Thus ^ Yet cease from thiSy <^c.] The Chorus here, endeavouring to comfort Ajax, takes the liberty of a friend and talks more boldly than Tecmessa ; for she artfully, shewing her condition, endeavours to mollify him, by moving him to pity. ^ By domestic Jove.] Those who cohabited together, saith the Scholiast, invocated domestic Jove, those who were friends friendly Jove, those in the same fortune social Jove, strangers hospitable Jove, those who swore to each other Horkius, those who prayed Hikesius, and brothers Homognius Jove; but doubtless it was the same Jove who was always meant, but differently styled, in respect of his different offices. "' By our marriage bed.] Here Tecmessa modestly puts Ajax in mind of their conjugal loves: whereas, Euripides hath been guilty of a fault in his Hecuba, in introducing that queen speak- ing very immodestly: But Sophocles here imitates Homer, who introduceth Andromache endeavouring to move Hector to compassion, and divert him from his purpose of going to the battle. AJAX. 23 will my fat^ undo me: such foul reproaches are unbecoming thee or thy race. Therefore respect thy aged father whom thou hast left at home; respect thy mother who with many prayers solicits the gods for ytDur safe return home; pity, my lord, thy child, who if deprived of you will be brought up under unfriendly tutors. This will be our sad portion of evils when you die. For me I have nothing to which I can look with hopes of succour besides thee ; thou hast destroyed my country by the sword, my mother likewise, and death hath taken my father to the inhabitants below. What country therefore will supply the want of thee? What riches? In thee I am only safe : but remember me, a man ought to remember the benefits he hath received, for kindness always begets kindness : but from whom the memory of good treatment slips, he cannot be esteemed a generous man. Cho. I would thy stubborn heart were mollified like mine with pity, thou wouldest applaud her speeches. Aj. And much applause shall she have of me, if she vdll only do what I command her. Tec. My lord, thou shalt ever find me obedient to thy will. Aj, Bring to me then my child, that I may see him. Tec. But I sent him away for fear. Aj, Of me, when my distemper seized me; was it not so ? Tec. Ay, lest you should happen to meet the poor infant and slay him. Aj, That act indeed would not have been unlike rae. Tec. Therefore his safety was my care. Aj. I commend the deed, and the diligence you used. Tec. Wherein therefore can I serve thee? 24 AJAX. Aj. Permit me to see and speak to him. Tec. He is attended by the servants hard by. Aj. What therefore hinders that I may not enjoy his presence? Tec. My child, thy father calls thee. Brin^ him hither whosoever of the servants bears him in his arms. Aj. Doth he answer to thy call, or did he not hear thee? Tec. One of the servants brings him hither. [JEurysaces is brought in by a servant. Aj. Bear him hither, he will not fear when he looks on this fresh slaughter, if he be truly my son. He must be instructed in his youth in the fierce manners of his father, and be made like him in his nature. Nay, child, mayest thou be more happy than thy father, in other things like him, and thou wilt be no ill man. And herein I reckon thee happy that thou art sensible of none of these evils; in knowing nothing is the happiest life, for not to know is an ill that never causeth gi'ief. For when thou art arrived to that perfection of understanding, that thou canest tell what it is to rejoice and grieve, thou mayest shew among my enemies of what father thou art descended. In the mean while let thy tender spirits so support thee, that as the vigour of thy mind increases thou mayest increase thy mother's joy. I know none of the Grecians will injure thee with vile reproaches, though absent from me : I will leave thee Teucrus for thy guardian, who will care- fully instruct thy youth, though he is now far off, "keeping guard against the enemies. But, O " Keeping guard against the enemies.'] i. e. the Thracians : for, toward the end of the Trojan wars, they assisted the Trojans, wherefore the Grecians set ambuscades at all the avenues and pas- sages out of that country, that they might fall upon them in their way, and cut them off before they joined the Trojans. The poet therefore supposed Teucrus to have been one of those whose post A J AX. 2S soldiers, seafaring people, I intreat this favour of you all, to declare this my command to him, that, taking my child to my palace in Salamis, he may shew him to Telamon and to my mother Eribcea, that he may be their continual comfort in old age, until they arrive at the chambers of the infernal gods. Nor shall any expose my armour to the Grecians as the subject of another contest, nor to my plague Ulysses ; but thou child take that which hath thy ° name, Eurysaces, and hold it, turning b} the folded rein, the sevenfold impenetrable shield : Pmy other armour shall be buried with me. But speedily receive this child, take him hence, nor fill the tent with thy cries. The woman much laments, shut quick the doors, '^ it is not the part of a wise physician to repeat enchantments to a wound that requires cutting. Cho. I feared thy resolution, for thy tongue so sharpened pierceth me. Tec. O, my lord Ajax, what hast thou resolved to do? Aj. Judge not nor inquire, it is a good thing to be prudent. Tec. Woe is me, how I despond, and I beseech thee by thy infant and the gods betray us not. ' Aj. Thou grievest much, knowest thou not that I am no more a debtor to the gods? was to watch them ; and him, being his brother, Ajax promiseth to leave Tecmessa and Eurysaces, as their defender against those dangers which she was apprehensive they would be in after hi* death. ° Which hath thy name.] His name was composed of the two words, tv^vq and craxo?, a broad shield. P My other armour shall be buried ivith me.] Thus Homer TBentions one who after his death was burnt with his armour: AAA ci^cc (/,1V KOtlex.vj£ a-i/v ivlea-t ^ai^aAfot^j. ^ It is not the part, S^c] This is spoke in allusion to an an- cient custom of curing by enchantments or music; so the stin* of the tarantula is said only to be cured by music. 26 A J AX. Tec, Good words, I beseech thee. Aj. Speak to those who will hear thee. Tec. And wilt thou not yield to me? Aj. Thou talkest very much. Tec. I fear, O king. AA, Wilt thou not shut her up? \To the Chorus. Tec. Now by the gods be mild. Aj. Thou thinkest foolishly, if thou thinkest to instruct my manners. ACT II. SCENE III. Chorus. Strophe I. Cho. O Salamis, who art encompassed by the raging sea, thou happy isle, how dost thou enjoy the praise of every tongue? But I, unhappy wretch, it is a long time since I have here remained in mount Ida's verdant pastures, of no account, harassed with the tedious toils of war, having the sad hope that I should at last arrive at the dark abominable grave. Antistrophe I. And to me incurable Ajax ' is second in misfor- tunes ; still, alas ! continuing in that madness, sent by divine appointment, whom thou, O Salamis, didest send out before a victor in many battles ; but "■ Is second in misfortunes i] The Greek word is i(pE^^oq ; which is derived from Ittj and e^^a, and primarily signifies no mare than one who sits by, or a looker on ; but among the Greeks it was used to signify him, who, when two had wrestled before, wrestled with him who had the mastery. So here the Chorus uses it in a metaphorical sense, to signify that Ajax is their second, or is plunged in the same calamities with them. AJAX. ^7 now beside himself he plungeth his friends into sad griefs >; and all his other acts performed witli his valiant hand are slighted by the unkind Atridse. Strophe II. How his miserable mother, worn out with many days, and full of grey hairs, when she hears that he is afflicted with madness, unhappy will lament, not with the lamentations of the sorrowful nightin- gale, but will bewail with piercing cries, with clap- ping of her hands, striking her aged breast, and tearing her grey hairs. Antistrophe II. Better is he who lies hid in the dark grave than he who is diseased without relief. For Ajax, when he left his father's family, was the greatest of all the Grecians, but now no longer continueth in his accustomed manners, but is beside himself. O miserable father! what a sad calamity w^hich is befallen your son will shortly wound your ears, a calamity which no age ever saw befall the descen- dants of ^acus except this. ACT III. SCENE I. Ajax, Chorus. Aj. ' Long and infinite duration of time brings all hidden things from their gloomy coverts, and conceals things which now appear : there is nothing that is not to be hoped for ; even the most sacred ' Long and infinite duration of time.] Here Ajax comes in and talks as if by the persuasion of Tecmessa he were reconciled to life, but this must be understood as the effect of a sudden passion, or a pretence the better to carry on his purpose ; for soon after he went out and fell upon his sword. 28 aJax. oaths and stubborn minds are broken. 1 who con- tinued long stubborn, * as slacked iron, am gi-own mild by this woman's discourses : for I am touched with pity on her behalf, lest I should leave her a widow among my enemies, and my child an orphan ; " but I will go to the streams and pasture near the shores, that I may purify myself from my filthiness, and so escape the grievous anger of the goddess ; and going until I find some unfrequented place, I will hide this thy sword, the most hated of all thy armour, in a hole dug in the earth, where none shall see it, but night and the grave will keep it below. But I, since 1 received in my hands this gift of Hector, the worst of all my enemies, re- ceived nothing acceptable from the Grecians; but it is a true proverb among men, " the gifts of ene- mies are not gifts, nor profitable. Wherefore for the future we shall learn to honour the Atridae : they are our governors, so that we must submit; why not? Things most potent and divine submit to honours : ^ the snowy winter submits to the fruitful * As slacked iron am grown mild.] As iron which being dipped in oil grows softer, so am I mollified by the speech of this woman. Or thus, as iron when it is dipped red hot in water hisses and roars, and after grows still, when cold: so am I ? 'fhus in Homer: ilv vootli -^v^^u Dipped in cold water, which roars aloud. " But I will go to the streams.] See our notes on Oedipus Tyrannus, Act V. Scene I. * The gifts of enemies are not gifts.] An oxymoron, or an expression spoke with such an affectation of wit, that it seems rather to savour of folly, yet it is very elegant. We have many buch expressions in sacred as well as prophane writings : as, 1 Tim. V. 6. " But she that Hveth in pleasure is dead while ske " liveth." 5^ The snowy winters.] As all things on earth have their vicissitudes and changes, so, saith Ajax, is it fit that I, who awhile ago raged with madness, should return to my right senses I ajax, 29 harvest ; the circle of the sad night to the day, to shew its light borne on white ^ coursers ; a gentle blast lays to sleep the roaring sea ; and powerful sleep, that binds us as with fetters, sets us free again; nor always holds us. Why therefore should we not know how to be wise ? For me I know, that when I was an enemy, I was so far an enemy as to become a friend again ; and so far I would help my friend, as one who will not be so always ; for the port of friendship is with many men unfaithful ; but herein it will be well. Do thou go in, Tecmessa, and pray to the gods happily to accomplish what my heart desires, and you, O companions, herein honour me, and signify to Teucrus when he comes, to take care of us, and be kind to you likewise ; but I go where it is fit I go, and, you, do what I say, and soon you shall know that though now I am unhappy, yet am I secure from all evils. By the same argument Horace consoles his friend Valgius, lib. 2. ode .9. Non semper imhres Nubibus hispidos Manant in Agros ; aut mare Caspium Vexant incequales procellce Usque, &^c. * Borne on white coursers.^ Gr. rr, j^EvytoTruXu ytjAi^a, this epithet is given to the day, because, saith the Scholiast on this place, the sun which ushereth in the day is said to ride in a chariot drawn by two horses, whereof one is called Lampon, and the other Phaethon. But he tells us in another place that Phaethon is the Sun himself, or the son of the Sun : which is confirmed by the testimonies of Ovid, Met. 2. and Homer, Odyss. 11. 320. the latter of which hath the words, 'HeX»o? (poti^uv. The poets gene- rally assign him four horses. Namely, Pyrois from -crt;^, igniSy fire ; Eous, from ^«?, Aurora, the morning ; .Ethon, from aE'Ow, iiro : Phlegon, from ^^sfu, in/lammo. 30 AJAX. ACT III. SCENE II. Chorus. Strophe. Clio. ^ He is overcome with love : I am overjoyed. ^ O Pan, conversant near the seas, come from the precipices of the snowy Cyllenian rocks, leader of dances, as thy divinity hath taught us dances in Nyssa and in Cnossus, now is it time for me to lead up such dances. O Dehan, King Apollo, who passest over the Icarian sea, mayest thou ever shew such favour and benevolence to me. Antistrophe I. For warlike Ajax hath banished cruel sadness from our eyes. O Jove, now the clear and bright day is at hand wherein we may go to the Grecian ships. For Ajax, forgetting his griefs, hath per- formed lawful sacrifices to the gods, worshipping them with the greatest submission. Great Time destroys and consumes all things. There is nothing that can be mentioned which we may not hope for ; * He is overcome with love.] It was necessary here that Ajax should have some time to retire to a convenient place to effect his purpose before the messenger came with orders from Teucrus, that he should be kept in ; otherwise Ajax might have been met by the messenger. And that time the poet supposes to be spent in the song of the Chorus for his happy change. ^ O Pan, conversant near the seas,] They invocate Pan here as being the president of Choruses, and the reasons given by the Scholiast why he is called a^t^AaynlE, or sea-wanderer, are, because he assisted the Atjienians in a sea-fight ; or, because he took Typhon in a net ; or, because he is worshipped on the tops of mountains near the sea; or, because fishermen worship him as their God ; or, because he loves noise in choruses, hence oiXiTrXccynre, as a.xi'^^ojAB, because the sea makes a noise; or, lastly, because he is the overseer of flocks near the sea. But whether any of these reasons, or which of them, resolves the question, I will leave it to the judgment of the learned. A J as;. .31 pe gives place to love. for beyond all hope Ajax is no more malicious against the Atridas ; but all strife is vanished and ACT IV. SCENE I. Messencrer, Chorus. Mes. My friends, this lirst I will declare to you, Teucrus is just arrived from the Mysian hills ; and as he comes through the middle of ihe camp, all the Argives, with one voice, reproach him. For, knowing him as he passed along, they surrounded him, and then from every side reviled him ; and there was none who called him not the brother of the madman, and conspirator against the army, so that he scarce avoided being stoned to death; it came even to this, that with their hands their swords were drawn from their sheaths. At last contention ceased by the intercession of the seniors, when it was at its greatest height. But where is Ajax, that I may tell him what I have to say ? For it is but just that we discover all the matter to our superiors. Cho. He is not within, but is just now gone out, having undertaken a new enterprise ; his manners too are changed. Mes. Alas ! alas ! either he was too slow in send- ing me on this journey, or I too slowly came. Cho. What advantage hath been intercepted. Mes. Teucrus said, that this man should be kept within the tent, nor suffered to go out until he came. Cho. But he is gone out, and returned to a better mind, to reconcile himself to the angry gods. Mes. These words are full of folly, if Calchas wisely prophesied. Cho. What hath he prophesied concerning this affair! 32 AJAX. Mes. So much I know, as now I shall speak, for I was witness to it. From the council and the royal circle, where the Atridae sat, Calchas rose up alone, and kindly putting his hand in Teucrus's, spoke to this purpose : " See that, with all your art, " you endeavour to shut up Ajax for this present *' day in his tent, if ever hereafter you would see ** him alive; for this day alone the anger of the '* goddess Minerva pursues him. And farther add- " ed, proud men and mighty bodies fall by the " grievous punishment of the gOds, when, being ** born like other men, they think not like them." But he, when he came from home, shewed himself foolish, when his father spoke well, and said : son, overcome in war, but always with God. But he haughtily and foolishly answered, father, even the worthless person may obtain the victory with the assistance of the gods, but I without them hope to attract to myself that glory ; such a proud speech he uttered. Then a second time, when divine Minerva exhorting him, said, that he should turn his bloody hand against the enemies : then he re- plied a temble and unutterable speech, queen, stand by other Grecians, the fight will never break out near my post. By such speech he gained the impla- cable anger of the goddess, not thinking as a man ; but, if this day he is in being, soon, through God, we may be his preservers. Such things the prophet said. But Teucrus immediately sent me to you, from the palace, to bear to you this command, to guard him ; but if we are deprived of him, he is no more, if Calchas be wise. Cho, O wretched Tecmessa, unfortunate lady ! Come out and behold this man, and hear what words he speaks. Alas I it is to be feared that all our joys are fled. . AJAX. 33 ACT IV. SCENE II. Messenger^ Chorus, Tecmessa with her Child. Tec, Why do you again raise me, a wretch, who but now rested from mighty woes ? Cho. Behold this man, who comes bringing to us an account of the action of Ajax, which I lament. Tec. Alas me ! What sayest thou man ? Mes. As to you I know not ; but as to Ajax, if he be gone out, I distrust. Tec. He is indeed gone out, which makes me grieve. What sayest thou ? Mes. Teucrus sent word to shut him up in the tent, nor suffer him to go out alone. Tec. Where is Teucrus, and why doth he say so ? Mes. He is hard by, and thinks the exit of Ajax fatal. Tec. Woe is me, a wretch ; from whom learnt he that ? Mes. From a prophet taught of God, that this day brings him life or death. Tec. O me ! my friends, assist in this my neces- sity. Let some hasten for Teucrus to come with speed; let some go to the western, others to the eastern, tops of the hills, and search the sad exit of Ajax ; for by him I find I am deceived, and cast out of his former grace. O me, my child ! What shall I do ? It is no time to sit, but I will go wheresoever I can : we will go, we will hasten ; this juncture is not for sitting, while we would save a man who hastens to die. Cho, "" I am prepared to go, and I ^vill shew it not * I am prepared to g-o.] While the Chorus^ and others are gone in quest of Ajax, the scene changes to an open place, where the poet introduces Ajax making a very moving speech before his death, and then falling upon his sword, in the presence of the D 34 AJAX. in word alone, but swiftness shall follow both of feet and action. [Scene changes to a forest, where Ajax is alone, his sword fixed in the earth, with the point upwards.^ Aj. The murdering sword stands ^ most sharp for slaughter, if I have time to reason thus, the gift of Hector, the most hated to me of all the Phrygians, and most odious to behold. It is fixed in that hostile land of Troy, newly sharpened with an iron-eating whetstone ; preparing well I have fixed it, the most acceptable to me, by which with speed I die. And thus we are prepared. First of all, then, O Jupiter, assist me ; 1 shall not desire to receive a great gift ; send to me some messenger, to bear the sad report to Teucnis, that he may take me first away, fallen on my bloody sword ; lest, first seen by the enemies, I be cast forth to the dogs, and to the birds a prey. This, O Jupiter ! I commit to thy care ; and I call likewise Mercury, the conductor of infernal spirits, with a gentle and swift course to bear me to the shades below, ^ when I have slain myself vdth this sword. And I call as my assistants those eternal virgins, ever seeing all the afl[lictions incident to men, spectators. This is contrary to what ^Eschylus before had done in treating upon this subject and to Horace's rule. Non tamen intus Digna geri promes in scenam, S^c. Yet Hedeline, in his Praxi Theatrica, strenuously defends hiin for this conduct. •* Most sharp for slaughter.] Gr. To/xiyTaro?. '^ When I have slain myself.] Gr. riAgyfav ^lupp^^uslcc. Divided my side. It was said that Ajax was by Hercules covered with a lion's skin every where but under his arm-pits. Wherefore, ^schylus, speaking of him, says, that his sword bent and could not pierce his body, until some goddess, being present, shewed him in which side he should pierce himself. Wherefore, Sopho- cles would not contradict his senior, but says he pierced his side, but mentions not which side. ' ' ' A J AX. 35 the venerable furies, quick-footed, to come and re- venge the sufferings of the dead ; them I call to know how miserably I perished by the Atridae, and may they destroy likewise those vile pernicious wretches ; as they see me fall self-murdered, so may they fall murdered by their most beloved children. Go, svnft- revenging furies, fall on, nor spare the whole army. And thou, O sun ! who drivest thy chariot through high heaven, when thou seest my father's country, pulling back thy golden rein, relate my misfortunes and my death to my old father, and my miserable mother, who, unhappy, when she hears this report, will fill the city vdth her cries. But it is to no pur- pose vainly to mourn these evils, but this business must be enterprized. O death, death ! come and behold me, with thee alone I will talk ; and thou, light of this bright day ; and thou, O sun, thou charioteer ! I call thee last and no more ; O sacred soil of my own country of Salamis ! O seat in my palace, celebrated Athens, and youths brought up with me, fountains and rivers, and the Trojan land, 1 call ; farewell, my parents, this is the last word Ajax saith to you ! the rest I will speak among the shades below. ACT IV. SCENE III. First SemicJiorus. Sent, Toil still increaseth toil ! whither, O whither, have I not gone ? No place can tell. Alas ! but, lo, I hear some noise ; 'tis from the fellow-sailors of our ships. ACT IV. SCENE IV. First SemicJiorus, Second Semichorus, 2(f Sem. What news now ? D 2 36 AJAX. 1st Sem. I have traced the whole western side of the fleet. 2d Sem. Hast thou, indeed ? 1st Sem. Abundance of labour, nought else ap- pears. 2d Sem. Nor towards the sun's rising, directing his way, doth he any where appear to me. 1st Sem. Who is there, of the laborious fishermen, sleepless, intent upon their prey, or who of the gods inhabiting Olympus, or the rivers which flow into the Bosphorean sea, knows, and, if he hath seen, can tell of cruel-hearted Ajax, where he wanders ? It is a miserable thing for me, in a succession of long labours, neither by running to approach him, nor, though weak with search, find where he is. ACT IV. SCENE V. Tecmessa, Chorus. Tec. Woe is me ! whose voice is that, which, sounding from the forest, is heard as near us ? ah, me, a wretch ! Cho. 1 see the miserable captive bride, Tecmessa, overwhelmed with grief Tec. It is past ; I am undone, I am destroyed ! O, friends ! Cho. What is the matter ? Tec. Ajax now is newly slain, the sword is sheathed^within his body. Cho. Woe to my coming ! Woe is me, O king ! Thou hast slain me thy fellow sailor. O me a wretch, and thou unhappy woman ! Tec. Since it is so, it is time to lament. Cho. With whose hand did the wretch do it ? Tec. By himself he fell, it is plain ; for in the earth the sword fixed argues it. AJAX. 37 Cho, Woe is me, my miseries ! Thou, how great a man, art slain, unguarded by thy friends ; I, fooHsh, in every thing deceived, in all things igno- rant, neglected : v\^here, where lies stubborn un- happy Ajax ? Tec. He is not to be seen, but I will cover him all over with a folded garment ; since none, though a friend, can bear to see him, blowing upwards at the nose, and from the dismal wound, black blood, by his own slaughter. O me! What shall I do? Who of thy friends will lift thee up, where is Teucrus ? How seasonable were it, if he came to take away his fallen brother? O unfortunate Ajax ! How great a man thou art, and what a sad state thou art in ; how worthy art thou even of enemies to be lamented ? Cho. O wretched man ! Too plainly, alas ! your loss of reason discovered that you would at last plunge both yourself and us into these endless woes ; for, in the furious tempest of your soul, how would you, with many bitter cries and groans, complain to me, night and day, of the injiuies of the Atridae ? But that time was the beginning of mischief, when there was a violent dispute about the arms of Achilles. Tec. Woe is me! Cho. The generous sorrow wounds my heart. Tec. Ah, me ! Cho. I wonder not why you lament, and again repeat the sounds of woe, lately deprived of such a friend. Tec. These things but seem so to thee, but I per- ceive them strongly. Cho. I agree with thee. Tec. Ah me, my son ! unto what yoke of servi- tude must we be brought ? What tutors must we have ? 38 , AJAX. Cho. Woe is me ! Thou hast mentioned an ^ im- speakable deed of the two cruel Atridse, in that mourning, but may God avert it. Tec. It is through the gods that we are in such a state. ^ Cho. Sad and deplorable misery they have caused, and such a mischief the goddess, daughter of Jove, hath been the cause of for Ulysses's sake ; and sure- ly the daring man doth injure with a traiterous heart, and with much laughter ridicules the sad misfortune of Ajax; alas! alas! together with the two chiefs, the Atridae, likewise hearing this news. Tec. Though they laugh and rejoice at his evils, it is likely, though they desire him not -alive, they will lament him in necessity of battle. For men of base minds, having in their hands a good, know it not before they have thrown it away. His death was more grievous to me than pleasant and delight- ful to them ; for, what he desired to obtain, he hath obtained, the death he longed for. What, therefore, can they laugh at in him ? He died for the gods, not for them. Cho. Let Ulysses therefore vainly insult him, Ajax is no more for them ; but for me he is gone, leaving me nought but grief and sorrow. Tec. Woe is me ! Cho. Hold thy peace, I think I hear the voice of Teucrus, loudly lamenting, with a cry agreeable to the present misfortune. ^ Unspeakable deed.] Gr. avo(,v^ov, the same with u}p-^ov, and both signify anything mysterious, and which cannot be uttered y and so it is understood by St. Paul, 2 Cor. ch. xii. v. 4; or, secondly, an ominous word ; or, thirdly, anything foul or dis- honourable, as fornication and uncleanness, and in this sense it is taken here. AJAX. 39 ACT IV. SCENE YI. Teucriis, Chorus, Tecmessa, Teu, most beloved brother Ajax, hast thou gained thy desired death, as fame reports ? Cho. The man hath perished, Teucriis, be assured of that. . Teu, Woe is me, my sad fortune. Cho. Since our case is thus. Teu. Ah, me ! Cho. It is time for us to mourn. Teu. O sad affliction ! Cho. Too great, indeed, Teucrus. Teu. Alas ! where is his son ? In what part of the Trojan land is he? Cho. He is alone in the tent, Teucrus. Teu. Wilt thou not lead him hither with all speed, lest any of the enemies snatch him away, as the whelp of an absent lioness ; go, hasten, labour ; for all love to insult the dead. Cho. And while he yet lived, Teucrus, the man desired that thou shouldest take care of him, as thou dost. Teu. O the most sad of all the spectacles to me that ever I saw with my eyes ! O most afflicting of all journeys to my very soul, which now I came, most loved Ajax, when I heard thy sad fate, as 1 was in chase of the enemies, and searched out their retreats ; for the report of thy death, as by some god was quickly spread through all the Grecian army, which I, wreched, hearing, though absent far lamented. But now, seeing the thing, I am undone. Woe is me ! Go, uncover him, that I may see the whole mischief; O miserable spectacle ! O desperate audacity ! What grief thou dying hast left me ! [They uncover the body of Ajax.] Whither is it possible for me to go ? To whom ? Since I 40 AJAX. assisted thee not in these afflictions. Will Telamon, thine and my father, receive me with a kind coun- tenance and favourable, coming w^ithout thee? How ? He to whom, even being fortunate, nothing is pleasant so as to make him laugh. He, what will he conceal ? What will he not say ? That I a bastard, begot of a captive taken in war, betrayed thee by fearfulness and cowardice; thee, O most loving Ajax ! or by fraud, that thou dying, I might enjoy thy wealth, being dead, and throne. Such things the angry man, morose with age, will say, though without just cause moved to strife : in the end, an exile, 1 shall be banished the land, to be a slave instead of a free man, through his reproaches. This is my case at home. But at Troy I have many enemies, and few friends. All these things will be- fall me, since thou art dead. Woe is me! What shall I do ? How shall I take thee from this cruel sword ? O wretch ! by what murder hast thou ex- pired ? Thou, therefore, sawest that in time. Hector dead would kill thee. See by the gods the fortune of two men, Hector, with the same belt that was bestowed on him by Ajax, was dragged after the chariot of Achilles, until he breathed out his soul ; Ajax, having his gift, by that suffered a fatal death. Did not a fury make this sword ; and the belt, Pluto, that cruel workman ? for I dare say the gods con- trive these and such things always for men. But to whose opinion these thoughts do not agree, let him maintain his own, but I approve these. Cho, Proceed not too far, but consider how thou mayest repose this man in his tomb, and what thou suddenly shalt say ; for I see an enemy, and per- haps laughing at our ills, say what a wdcked man might say. Ten. Who is he whom thou seest coming from the army ? Cho, Menelaus, for whom we undertook this voyage. AJAX. 41 Tea. I see him, he is not hard to be known, tor he is near. ACT VI. SCENE VII. Menelaus, Teucrus, Choi us. Men. Thou, I ^ bid thee not prepare that body for sepulture, but suffer it to Ue as it doth. Teu. Why hast thou given out that pernicious decree ? Men. It pleaseth me and him who commands the army. Teu. But wilt thou not say what reason thou canst give ? Men. Because we hoped we brought him from home a fiiend and a confederate to the Grecians ; but I find him more an enemy than the Trojans ; who designing the slaughter of the whole army, a night-wanderer, directed his arms against us, that he might kill us ; and unless some god had over- thrown his purpose, we had had the same fortune s I bid thee not prepare that body for sepulture.] It was an usual thing with the ancient Grecian heroes to deny their enemies burial after death ; so Achilles punished Hector, and in the Antigone Creon decreed that the body of Polynices should lie ex- posed a prey to the dogs and fowls of the air. And, ordinarily, several persons, who, by their actions while alive, or the aggra- vating circumstances of their death, were thought unworthy of any funeral, were so exposed, as those who betrayed or conspired against their country, villains guilty of sacrilege, tyrants, persons killed with lightning, some offenders who suffered capital punish- ment, such as were guilty of self-murder, &c. So that, upon several accounts, Ajax seems to have forfeited his right to burial. For which reason, Aristotle tells us. Ethic. Nicom. lib. v. cap. 2, that his body was not reduced to ashes, according to the usual custom, but privately interred, it having been declared by Calchas to be a profanation of the holy element to consume in it the bodies of such as had occasioned their own death. 42 AJAX. which hath befallen him, and suffered an unhappy fate, and he had lived. But now the god hath changed his intended mischief, and made him fall on flocks and herds. Wherefore there is no man shall have power to bury his body in a tomb ; but, cast out on the yellow sand, he shall be food for the sea-birds ; wherefore thou needest not to exert thy fierce rage, for, if we could not overcome him while he lived, we will entirely command him dead, though thou wilt the contrary ; for living, he never would listen to my commands : and that is the part of an ill man, while he is a subject, not to listen to those who are placed over him ; for in no city the laws can well prevail where fear is wanting ; nor can an army be well governed which hath nei- ther fear nor awe. But it becomes a man, though he be gTeat in body, to think that he may fall through even a small evil ; but who hath fear and likevdse reverence, know that man hath safety in himself. But when injuries prevail, and every one doth what he will, then think this city will fall at last from happiness to the lowest degree of misery; there- fore, let there be seasonable awe, and let us not think, if we do what we please, that we shall not suffer again what may displease us ; these mutually succeed each other. Before he was a flagrant in- jurer, but now I take my turn to triumph. And I precaution thee not to bury him, lest thou fall tliy self into the grave. Cho. Menelaus, take care, lest while you deliver those grave maxims you become injurious to the dead. Teu. I should not wonder at a man who is mean in pedigree, if he offends, since they who seem to be born gentlemen offend so in their words. Go, speak again from the beginning, will you not say that you brought this man a confederate to the Gre- cians ? Did not he sail hither as governor of him- AJAX. 43 self? How do you govern him ? How is it lawful for you to rule a people whom he brought from home ? You came hither a Spartan governor, not to govern us, nor can it be that you have more right to govern him than he to govern you. You sailed hither a prince, indeed, though not governor of all, so as ever to rule Ajax. Therefore, govern those who are your subjects, and instruct them with those grave speeches ; but I will lay him in his sepulchre, as it is just I should, though you say the contrary, or any other commander, not fearing your presence ; for he fought not for the sake of your wife, as those hired for war, ^but for the oath's sake by which he was sworn, not for you, for he thought none worthy for whom to come hither. Wherefore, bring with you several heralds and the army to prevent me ; for all your noise I will not be moved from my purpose, how great soever thou art. Men. I like not such a tongue in adversity. Teu. Harsh things, though they be most just, are grating. Men, This archer seems not to think meanly of himself. Teu. It is not a mean art I have learned. WIen. Greatly wouldest thou boast if you bore a shield. Teu. 'Even light armed I am a sufficient match for thee, when thou art better armed. ^ For the oath's sake.'] When all the princes were gathered together to court Tyndarus's daughter, he'made them all swear to fight for him who married her, if any should offer to take her away by force. * Even light-armed I am a sufficient match for thee.] This kind of ribaldry is beneath the dignity of tragedy, for it is mere- ly added by the poet to prolong the scene, while he loseth the passion proper to it. How to|ot»3? comes to be a reproachful name will be evident from hence. Among the different soldiers of which the Grecian armies were composed, the \I/t%o4 or ro^oran seem to have been but of inferior rank, for their business was 44 AJAX. Men. Your tongue shews that your anger is great. Teu, It is lawful greatly to think with justice. Men. Is it just that he fare well who hath killed me ? Teu. Killed you ! a grievous thing you have spoke, though you are dead you live. Men. It was God preserved me ; as to him I am dead. Teu. Do not, therefore, dishonour the gods, by whom you are preserved. Men. Do I, therefore, dishonour the laws of the gods ? Teu. You do, if you permit not the burial of the dead. Men. Not of those who are my enemies ; that is but just. only to sling stones, and shoot arrows at their enemies, thereby to annoy them at a distance, but were unfit for close battle, but those who fought with shields and spears were of much higher esteem, and generally protected the former in the fight. For this reason, Menelaus called Teucrus, a little before, tauntingly, To|oT»)?, an archer. This is apparent as from this place, so from the testimony of Homer, who tells us that Teucrus retired behind the shield of Ajax for protection. II. 0. v. 266. 'EvO' ''Ata? jotEV v^t^i(pi^u crunoq, uvru^ oy »}^&)f 'AvIo.^ awTK *vhich they had entertained when alive. This further appears from the story of Eteocles and Polynices, Oedipus's sous, who having killed each other in a single combat, and, being burned in the same pile, the flames of their bodies would not unite, but, by parting from each oth^r, demonstrated their immortal hatred when living. Bianor's following epigram informs us of this. K«t TTv^] TTv^ riXey^av Ivavliov. a IXsen'O* X\.aA^ic,y a.xo^^r\(jj\i ci-^oifxevoi ^o^£\uv. Within thy walls, O Thebes ! two brothers lie. Who, though deceased, cease not their enmity ; For, from their bodies on the pile do fly. Enraged corpuscles justling in the sky;. With pointed fury eagerly they meet. Then, in aversion, scornfully retreat. Unhappy youths, by fates denied to have The peaceful slumbers of a quiet grave. There is a passage in Virgil to the same purpose. i£neid. vi. V. 655. Eadem sequitur tellure repostos. So here Elecira argues, that, as Agamemnon, though dead, had reason to hate Clytemnestra, who had so barbarously mur- dered him, it is but reasonable to think he would detest any offer- ings paid by her on his tomb. ELECTRA. 73 him, ^ her arms were stuck with pieces of flesh cut from him ; and who, to wash away the guilt of mur- der, had the courage to "wipe her bloody hands upon his wounded head ? But, dost thou think these hba- tions will free her from the guilt of the slaughter? It cannot be : but, quit your design, and, cutting ^ from your head the ends of your hair, join with it that little which I have left to testify my wretched state ; these gifts are but small, yet such as I have : and, with my hair, offer, likewise, my girdle, not enriched with ornaments of gold, and, falling down before him, pray that he may come from the earth a friendly assistant against our enemies, and send Orestes alive with a superior power to attack them ; that, hereafter, with richer gifts we may cro^vn his tomb than what we now bestow. For, I am per- suaded that his care for us obliged him to send these dreams which have filled her with all this horror. Wherefore, sister, join yourself to me, la- bour for me and yoiu-self, and tlaat most beloved of * Her arms were stuck with pieces of Jlesh.] It was usual for those who slew others to achroterize, or cut off pieces of the out- sides of the flesh of the party slain, and fix them under their arm-pits, which would, as they supposed, disable him from send- ing furies from the dead to revenge the murder. The word which denotes this action, Sophocles takes from Eschylus, who hath the word t(A.oca-xoi>^icr^». Thus was Deiphobus used by Helene, as we read in the sixth ^neid of Virgil. Deiphobum vidi lacerum crudeliter ora, Ova manusque ; amhas, populataque ; tempora raptis Auribus, et truncas inhonesto vulnere nares. Dacier. " To wipe her bloody hands*] Another superstition much like the other was, that the murderer always took care to wipe his bloody sword and hands in the hair of the person slain, thinking with the blood to wash away likewise all the guilt of the crime. This resembles the action of which Solomon speaks, Prov. xxx. V. 20. " Such is the way of an adulterous woman, she eateth and " wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness." Dacier. 74 ELECTRA. all men, which is now in the grave, our common father. Cho. This maid speaks piously, and thou, if tliou art wise, wilt follow her counsel. Chry. I will follow it ; for, when your demand is just, 1 have no reason to oppose it, but to hasten to action. I will keep this as a secret, and adjure you, my friend, to do the same, for, if our mother hears it, this attempt will be fatal to me. ACT I. SCENE Y. Chorus. ''Strophe. If I am no mistaken prophet, nor deprived of all my prophetic light, the Goddess of Vengeance comes, who always knows her time, her hands are armed with power and justice, and very soon too you will see her. The agreeable recital of this dream gives me this confidence, for it is not possible that your father, king of the Grecians, should forget the treatment he received, nor that old brazen axe which slew him with most cruel blows. Antistrophe. But the brazen-footed Fury will come with a * Strophe, ^c."] These words Strophe and Antistrophe, so often mentioned, denote the movements of the Chorus in singing ; when they sung the Strophe, they turned from the right hand to the left ; and when the Antistrophe, they turned from the left hand to the right. The Chorus was divided into two parts, or Semi-choruses, as among the Hebrews, the right hand troop began and advanced toward the left, and (according to the division of the theatre) this was the Strophe ; and when that had done, the left hand troop turned toward the right, that was the Antistrophe. The Epodos is what the Chorus sang last, till they sang again after the next act. . ELECTRA. 75 hundred feet and a hundred hands, though now concealed in darkness, and will punish those wicked wretches for their criminal mamage; a marriage which a horrible assassination preceded. Wherefore 1 am persuaded that the aiders and abetters of this crime will feel the effects of this dream. For humane predictions are of no force to interpret dreadful dreams, or divine oracles, if this nights phantasm bring not to us some good effect. Epodos. O most unfortunate chariot-race of Pelops ! How unhappy thou wert to this land, for ever since that fatal moment in which ^ Myrtilus, with such indig- nity, was quite tumbled down from his chariot and thrown into the sea, this house hath been plunged into numberless calamities. ACT II. SCENE I. Clytemnestra, Electra, Chorus, Clyt, You seem to walk about with liberty enough, because JEgisthus is not at home, who always re- strained you, lest, when you are out, you reproach y In which Myrtilus.] This Myrtilus was son of Mercury, and coachman to Oenomaus, who being corrupted by Pelops, with the promise of part of his kingdom, contending in a chariot-race with Oenomaus, caused the chariot-wheel in which his master rode to be so loose that it flew off, whereby he fell down and broke his neck. But Pelops ill rewarded him for his treachery, for, taking him with him when he stole Hippodamiaand carried her into Peloponnesus, in their journey he threw him headlong into the sea. The Scholiast, therefore, says, that Mercury revenged this baseness of Pelops to his son upon all his descendants. It ap- pears by this passage, and several others, that the Pagans believed this truth, viz. that God would punish the iniquities of the fathers upon the children unto the third fourth generation. 76 ELECTRA. your friends. Now, as he is absent, you respect not me, nor cease to tell all the world that I al)use my power ; that I treat you and yours with indignity. I do you no injury, but reproach you, being forced thereto by your reproaches against me. Your only pretence is, that I have slain your father ; it is true, and know it was well done, and I deny it not. Jus- tice slew him and not I alone, whom it was fit you should help if you were wise, because this, your father, whom you always lament alone of all the Grecians, had the barbarity to sacrifice your own sister Iphigenia, not considering a mother's throws, which fathers feel not. Pray tell me for what cause, for whose sake he sacrificed her ? Will you say it w as to pleasure the Grecians ? What right had they to demand my children's blood ? Or for his brother Menelaus ? Why should he kill my children for him, and not, therefore, suffer punishment? Had not ^ Menelaus two children, who it was more fit should die than mine, being descended of that father and mother for whose sake this expedition was undertaken ? Had Pluto more desire to devour my children than Helen s ? Or will you say that wretched father had no love for my children, but Menelaus loved his ? Do not these sentiments de- clare him unnatural ? I think so. If I speak dif- ferent from your opinion, your dead sister would ^ Menelaus two children.] i. e. Hemione and Nicostratus, though Homer allows him to have had but one, viz. the former ; but it is an usual thing with the Poets to contradict each other to serve their purpose. As what different tales do they tell con- cerning the fate of Ajax, son of Telamon ? Some say that he was killed by Paris ; others that he was by the Trojans so over- whelmed by stones and clay that he died, they having been in- formed by the oracle that he was invulnerable by sword ; others, with whom Sophocles agrees, say he killed himself. No less variety is there in the relation of the fate of Antigone, every poet making use, among the various traditions, of that which best suited with his purpose. ELECTRA. 77 speak no other language if she could speak. My conscience doth not reproach me for what I have done, but if I seem to you to think amiss, though my cause I think is just, convince me of my error with respect and by solid reasons. Elect. You shall not say now that after I began to affront you with reproachful terms, you only an- swered me again in the same kind. But, if you will permit me, I would answer for my dead father, and for my sister, and contain myself within those bounds you have prescribed me. Clyt. I permit you, for if you had always begun with me with this moderation, you had not heard those dismal reproaches you complain of. Elect, Then I speak; you say you killed my father, and what more base confession can be made, whether you killed him justly or not? But I shall tell you that it was not justice which armed you against him, but the persuasion of a wicked man, with whom you now live. Examine Diana, who presides over rural sports, for whose punishment she bound our fleet in the port of Aulis. I will tell you, for from her we cannot know it. My father, as I hear, one day diverted himself at the forest of the goddess, raised up with his feet a spotted deer ; in killing it he boasted, and happened to put out some vain word, and from that Latona's daughter, taking offence, stopt the Grecians in the port, that my father might sacrifice his child for a recompense of the beast, for such were the sacrifices of that goddess ; nor was there freedom to be purchased upon other terms for the fleet to go home, or to Ilium ; wherefore, my father, being forced by hard necessity, after much resistance, sacrificed her, not for the sake of Menelaus. But if, (for I will speak your purpose,) willing to oblige his brother, he sacri- ficed her, was it fit that he should, for that reason, die by your hand r| By what law ? Take care, l^st \ 78 ELECTRA. by establishing such a law among men, yourself have not reason to repent, and that law be fatal to you : for, if we may kill one for another, you your- self would first, if you had justice, die. But this is only a false pretext to serve your own purpose. If you will tell me, I pray, what is it that now obliges you to lead a shameful life, receiving to your bed that villain, by whose aid you killed my father, and get children, but reject the former legitimate children, who were descended of parents lawfully joined in marriage? How can 1 approve these actions ? Or will you say this, that it was to revenge your daughter ? Can you say that without a blush ? Is it becoming you to marry our bitter enemy to re- venge your daughter ? One may not admonish you, but you report every where that we revile our mother. As for me, I esteem you no less my mistress than my mother, who live a miserable life, and am im- mersed in many evils, which proceed only from you and from your consort. But the other, which is at a distance, with difficulty escaping your hands, sad Orestes leads a miserable life. You often reproach me that I saved him that he might one day punish you and revenge my father ; \ O ! if I were able, I had done it, assure yourself of that : wherefore, if you will, declare it to all the world that I am the most wicked of all creatures, the most abuseful, the most impudent ; if I have all these qualities, what can they say of me but that I resemble jou.%^ Cho. I see the princess in great fiwy, but whether her fliry be just or no, I know not. Cl^t, What shall I think of her who hath treated her mother with so much indignity ? And at this age hath spoke with this impudence. Do you not think that she is capable to do the worst of deeds vrithout a blush ? Elect, You mistake me ; assure yourself that I am ashamed of those speeches, though I seem not to ELECTRA. 79 you to be SO. I understand that such language is very indecent in my mouth, but your hatred towards me and your actions force me to speak it ; for ill deeds are learnt from ill ones. Clyt, O, impudent wi'etch, do I and my deeds make you speak this language ? Elect, It is from you, not me, these discourses proceed ; you commit these actions, and these actions produce these discourses. Clyt. But, by Diana, I swear this impudence shall not escape unpunished when iEgisthus comes home. Elect, You see how you are overcome wdth rage, though you gave me leave to say what I would ; you have not patience to hear me. Clyt. Wilt thou not suffer me to sacrifice in peace, since I have permitted thee to say thy pleasure ? Elect. I exhort you to do it. Sacrifice, nor com- plain that I interrupt your prayers, for I will say no more. Clyt. Thou who art present \to her maid] bring offerings of all sorts of fruits, that I may lay on this altar suppliant sacrifices to Apollo, to deliver me from those terrors with which I now am seized. Now, ,0 Apollo, whose image is worshipped before the gates of this palace, hear my secret prayers which I address to you, for I am here among mine enemies. Nor is it fit to reveal all my thoughts when she is near me, lest, out of spirit of hatred and ca- lumny, she spread a vain report through all the city. But hear me who address myself to thee ; if those spectres which I have seen this night, ^ these doubt- y These doubtful dreams.] Gr. ^Wwv ovei^m, alluding either to the two gates of sleep, viz. the horn and ivory, (for those dreams which entered at the former were supposed to be ominous of what would certainly come to pass ; the other, on the contrary, ^ere reckoned vain and of no effect.) Or, secondly, to two visions she had seen, namely, that for which she sent Chrysothemis to make libations and offerings on the tomb of Agamemnon, and 80 ELECTRA. fal dreams, O Lycian king, be happy, grant that they may be accomplished ; but, if unfortunate, re- turn their effect upon my enemies, and suffer them not to cast me '^from my present flourishing state, if any contrive to do it ; but here for ever grant I may enjoy perfect health, and an uninterrupted course of prosperity, possess the palace, and sway the sceptre of the Atridae, pass a quiet life with my friends with whom I am now, and with my children who have no ill-will towards me, nor importune me with their sad complaints. Hear our prayers, O Lycian Apollo, propitiously, and give us all other things which we ask ; for, I am persuaded, that, being a god, thou art capable of knowing what I ask for in silence. Since Jove is your father, it is impossible your eyes should not penetrate the most hidden secrets. ACT 11. SCENE II. Tuto7\ Chorus, Clytemnestra, Electra. Tut. ^ You ladies of this land, how can I cer- that for which she prays to Apollo ; or, thirdly, to the doubtful- ness of the dreams. ^ From my present flourishing state.^ Here is a very lively? representation of the precarious state of the wicked, for Clytem- nestra here thinks herself in a most flourishing condition, when she had not an hour to live ; but is to die in a cruel manner by the bands of her own son : so, when the wicked think themselves^most secure and say peace, sudden destruction comes upon them. * You ladies of this land, how, S^c.'] Here comes in the Tu- tor, with his feigned story of the death of Orestes, killed in the Delphic games, which story, though feigned, is beautiful in its place, and fit to strike an audience with a tragical horror; for men are not only desirous in general to know of the death of any great man, but likewise the particular circumstances how he came by it. \ As to the part of Clytemnestra, it comes very d propos, the moment she had ended-iier secret prayers to Apollo for the death of Orestes and ELectraA ELECTRA. 81 tainly be informed? Is this the palace of king iEgisthus? (Jho. Stranger, it is ; thou hast indeed rightly judged. Tut. And is this his queen ? for her majestic air and garb import she is no less. Cho. It is true she is the queen. Tut. Hail, queen ! I come to bring agreeable news, both to you and to iEgisthus, from a friend. Ctyt. I receive the happy omen, but desire to know who sent you. Tut. One of Phocis of the town of Panope hath sent this important news. Clyt. What, stranger ? speak : since you are from a friend, I know well you will speak nothing but what is agreeable. Tut. In short, Orestes is dead. Elect. Woe is me, a wretch ; I am undone this day. Clyt. What sayest thou, stranger? What sayest thou ? Hear not her. Tut. I say now, and said before, that Orestes is dead. Elect. I die a wretch, I am no more. Clyt. You mind your own affans. But, stranger, tell me without disguise in what manner he died. Tut. For that I was sent, and vaW speak all to the smallest circumstance. He coming to , the famous assembly of the Grecian youths, to join in the Delphic games, no sooner heard the voice of the herald loudly proclaiming the foot-race, in which they first contended, but he presented himself at the barriers, shining with svich a god-like lustre, that he gained the respect and admiration of all beholders. And as his person was glorious to behold, so were his actions, for he bore away the glorious prize of vic- tory. I cannot, madam, give you a perfect account of all the actions of this prince, nor was I witness ^2 ELEGTRA. to them ; but this one thing I say, that he returned victorious in ^ the five conflicts which the heralds Eroclaimed according to the custom, and vv^as cele- rated with the loud acclamations of the people, who called him Orestes, the prince of Argos, the son of Agamemnon, who once raised a famous army of Grecians against Troy. \This was his suc- cess. But when the gods resolve to afflict any, he cannot even who is strong escape.X For the next day when the sun arose, which was the day of the chariot-course, he entered with "" many other cha- rioteers. When the judges of the game threw lots, and ranged in order the chariots by those lots, the signal given by the sound of a brazen trumpet, the combatants rushed forth, they likewise calling to their horses, shook the reins in their hands. The whole plain was filled with the noise of rattling chariots, the dust was likewise raised, and all mixed together, they nothing spared their spurs that every one might out-run his rival to get before the breath of his coursers, which breathed on them ; and the breath of the horses, mixed mth dust, raised such a cloud, that it quite hid their chariots fi^om our sight. But the young prince near the last pillar still turned his axle-tree, and for that purpose letting go the horse, Siraeus, on the right hand, stopped the other. Heretofore every chariot kept its right order, until the unruly horses of the prince of Thrace, by force bound forward and by making many turns, meet face to face Avith the Libyan chariots, and fi-om this confusion one rushed forward and met another. ^ The Jive conflicts.'] Gr. IlgvJaSxa, viz. leaping, throwing quoits, casting darts, running, and wrestling. Simonides hath comprised them all in one verse, 'AA//.a, i!70^UKt\'i)Vf ^iay-oVf anovloif laa.'KviV. ^ Many other charioteei^s.'] Here I miss a few proper names which I thought to be of small importance, which I hope the reader will excuse. ELECTRA. 83 Jn a moment this mischief was general, the whole Chrisaean field was filled with wrecks of horses. But an ingenious Athenian charioteer seeing this, turns aside his reins, and stopping his chariot made it stand still, thereby to avoid that confusion of horses, which perfectly resembled a ship- wreck in a tempestuous storm. But Orestes being arrived at the last column, whose horses were in the last rank, was confident he should gain victory. As he saw this young Athenian the only one that could dispute the prize, he made a smart noise about the ears of his swift horses, follows up, and both driving up, equalled the horse manes of each other ; now one, now another outstrip each others chariot; and miserable Orestes directed right his other courses, his chariot still entire, until slacking the left rein, while the horse turned himself, imprudently he struck against the last column, broke the naves of the axle- tree, and falls down from his chariot ; by his reins is dragged along, and, falling on the ground, his horses, in a furious manner, pursue their course. But when the multitude saw him fallen from his seat, they mourned the youth whose fate, after having given such proofs of his conduct and valour, was to suffer such ills. Now is he borne along the ground, now he raised up his legs toward the skies, and the charioteers who ran with him after many efforts restraining the race of his horses, loosed his miserable body, which was so bloody and so dis- figured, that none of his best friends could know him ; and presently burning him on a funeral pile, certain men of Phocis appointed to that purpose bear the sad remains of his body in a small urn, that he may obtain a sepulchre in his father's coun- try. This is the news I tell you, and even the re- cital is afilicting, but we, who were witnesses of the spectacle, have been forced to avow that we never saw any thing so terrible. G 2 84 ELECTRA. \Cho. Alas ! it seems the whole race of our ancient kings is quite extinct. Clyt. O Jupiter, what is this, shall I call it for- tunate or evil ! I see it is profitable, however ; but that I preserve my life by my evils is a dismal state. Tut, Why, madam, are you so concerned at this ^ news ? ^ Clyt. Is any thing so powerful as nature ? For when we have brought children into the world, for ^ the very worst treatment we cannot hate them. Tut. As it seems, we came hither in vain. Clyt. Not in vain* How doest thou speak in vain, since thou art come to me ; bringing certain signs of the death of a son, who, forgetting that he was . born of me, departed from my breasts which gave I him milk, and tender education, and lived, an exile, 1 with strangers ; of a son, who, since he departed ; hence, never returned to see me, and accusing me I for his father's murder, witli dreadful threats so afflicted me, tliat iieither night nor day sleep closed my eyes, but every moment I looked upon myself as a victim prepared for slaughter; but this day I am freed from fear both from Orestes and Electra ; for this daughter was my greatest domestic evil, drinking my heart's blood ; but now quiet, even from Electra's threats, I shall lead my Hfe. Elect. Woe is me, a wretch ! Now, Orestes, is it time to deplore thy calamity, who, even in the state thou art in, provest the severity of a barbarous mother. By the gods thi^ is not well ! Clyt. Not what you expected ; but as he does, he does well. Elect. ^ Hear, Nemesis, the dead prince, who appeals to you. ^ Hear, Nemesis, the dead.] Nemesis is supposed to be the goddess whose particular care it is to punish all injuries which the living do in words or deed against the dead; thus, in the fifth acf, ./Egisthus, after having expressed his joy for the news of Orestes's ELECTRA. 85 Clyt. She heard whom she should, and hath done them justice. Elect. Now insult over us, Fortune hath fa- voured you. Clyt. Will Orestes and you never cease these menaces ? Elect. We will not only cease, but will submit to you. Clyt. I cannot sufficiently express my obligations to you for silencing this importunate wretch. [To the Tutor of Orestes, Tut. Therefore, since all things are well, I have nought to do but to return. Clyt. By no means ; that were poor recompense for the pains you have taken, and the service he did us who sent you, to let you return so quickly ; but go into the palace, and let her, without, mourn the evils of herself and her friends. ACT II. SCENE III. Electra, Chorus, Elect. What say you, my companions? Think you she sadly gTieved, sent out a sigh, or shed one tear for her son, who met his fate in a cruel manner? \ No, but the wretch departed laughing. Woe is me, poor maid ! O de.ar Orestes, who, dying, hast de- stroyed me ; thou art gone and hast borne to thy tomb with thee the only hope I had, that you would sometime come to revenge my father and deliver me ; but now whither must I go ? I am alone, deprived death, restrains his transports by these words : t* 5^' eVEn Ns/xe^tk, » x/jw. Wherefore, Caliiniachus, in his Hymn of Ceres, speaking of the insolence of Erisichthion, says : — Nemesis hath recorded this insolent speech. S6 ELECTRA. of you and my father too, and reduced to the state of a slave to my bitterest enemies, the mur- derers of my father. Ye gods how am I fallen ! But for the future I will not cohabit with these monsters. I will go and cast myself before this gate, where, deaf to the voice of comfort, I will wither out my life ; and if the possessors of the palace are tired in seeing and hearing me, let them kill me ; why should I desire to preserve that life which only serves to prolong my miseries ? ACT II. SCENE IV. Chorus, Electra joins with the Chorus. Elect, * Where are the thunderbolts of Jove ? Where is the bright sun ? Are they quiet, and over- look these things ? Alas ! alas I Cho. Why weepest thou, princess ? Elect. Alas! Cho. Do not exalt thyself, but wait God's leisure. Elect. Thou undoest me. Cho. How? Elect. If thou wilt bring me any hope to comfort me, under the loss of those who are certainly dead, while I languish, thou wilt be but more troublesome, and augment my woes. Antistrophe II. Cho. ^ I know king Amphiaraus, being hid, was ® Where are the thunderbolts.'] The Chorus in the formtir act comforts Electra with the hopes of Orestes*s return, saying, cheer up, O child, great Jove is in Heaven, &c. but now, drivea to despair by this message, and seeing Clytemnestra indecently re- joice at it, doubts whether there be a God to suffer such things. ^ . I know king Amphiaraus.'] The story of Amphiaraus is thus • he was a very skilful soothsayer, and when Adrastus, king of tl| Argives, would assert the Theban crown to his son-in-law, Poly- ELECTRA. 87 betrayed by the deceit of a woman for a golden bracelet, and now among the dead. Elect. Alas! alas! Cho. With an immortal soul he reigns. Elect, Alas! Cho. Alas! indeed, for that wretch perished. Elect. Was not Eriphyle punished therefore ? Cho. Doubtless. Elect. I know it well, for there was one who se- verely revenged the sufferings of Amphiaraus ; but I have none to revenge my father s, but he whom I had is ravished fi'om me. Strophe. Cho . Princess, the most unfortunate that ever lived . Elect. Alas ! I know but too many sorrows ; their number and duration too well I have learnt. Cho. We know the cause of your lamentation. Elect. Do not endeavour to comfort me. Cho. What sayest thou ? Elect. There is no hope, my friends, for he is gone in whom my hopes were placed. Dices, he was desirous that Amphiaraus should accompany him to the wars ; but he, knowing that the war would be fatal to him, declined going, and hid himself, lest he should be forced to go, his wife Eriphyle only being conscious to it. But Adrastus's wife, Argia, bribed her with a golden bracelet adorned with gems, and made by Vulcan, for which she discovered where he was, where- upon he was taken by force to the wars. When, therefore, he understood it would certainly be his ruin, he charged his son, Alcmaeon, to kill Eriphyle, which he did accordingly, for which he was tormented with Furies so that he died, and Amphiaraus was swallowed up alive in the earth. This story Horace hints at as an instance, to shew the invincible power of riches, -^Concidit auguris I Argivi domus ob lucrum. \j The Chorus here, to comfort Electra, compares Agamemnon to I Amphiaraus, that as he is honoured among the dead for his know- |l ledge in the art of prophecying, so will the other for his warlike ■r exploits. To which Electra answers to this purpose, the case is r different, for Amphiaraus had a revenger of his death, viz. Alc- / mseon, but my father's is lost in Orestes. 88 ELEGTRA. Cho. Fate attends all mortals. Elect. And must all meet that fate by being* draged along by reins, like that poor prince ? Cho. An unforeseen misfortune. Elect. Why not ? Since he died in a strange land, where I could not pay him my last offices. Cho. Alas, alas! Elect. Nor had he the honours of sepulture from me, nor have I shed tears on his tomb. ACT III. SCENE I. Chrysothemis, Electra. Chry. Most loved sister, " I am so transported with joy, that I forgot the rules of decency, and came with speed : for I bring you most pleasing news, and declare an end of all those evils which heretofore you suffered. Elect, Where can you find a remedy from our evils, for which it is not possible to find a cure ? Chry. Orestes is with us. I believe that it is as true as that you see me. s J am so transported with joy, that I for got. ~\ Chrysotherais returning from the tomb, having offered her own and sister's hair, and finding the libations poured out by Orestes, and the bunches of hair, and that variety of flowers, proves, by a probable reason, / that Orestes must be come, since that sort of libations could neither have been oftered by Clytemnestra, Electra, or herself. This argument is answered by Electra, by giving Chrysothemis an account of the message of his death, and that she believed some- body had placed there his hair, &c. as monuments of dead Orestes. For thus Triclinius explains the word, MyniA.u 'OgeVa t/x^jSi^ o jSoj^yp^oj t55? >i£?, or natural love of near relations for each other, is a law impressed on the minds of all creatures, which she, in this instance, had broke. There is nothing more fit to shew the degenerate manners of men, who act without respect to the laws of nature, which should bind all creatures, than to shew that even the brutes love and cherish their kind. Sedjam serpentum major concordia, parcit Cognatis maculis similis/era. Juv. Sat. xr. yd ELECTRA. Atridse among the dead, and discover these their reproaches. Antistrophe I. That now at home all things are in disorder with their children, the two princesses of their family cannot live together, but are in cruel dissension. That Electra alone, abandoned by all the world, exposed to a thousand dangers, and always mourn- ing the murder of her father, as the ever-lamenting nightingale, is not concerned to die, but is prepared to surrender her life, so she may have the satisfac- tion to make those two criminals fall as victims to her just revenge ; for what princess of noble race could live in such a state ? Strophe II. For no generous person in adversity will purchase life at this price, by defacing his glory and his re- putation to live in shame and infamy. Princess, the miserable life you have always led, and the continual war you have made against their crimes, ought to gain you this double praise, that you are the wisest and the noblest of children. Antistrophe II. May you live in power and^ riches above your enemies, as much as now you are crushed under their power, since you have the courage to oppose your evils : and, by yoiu^ piety towards the gods, have borne away the prize, in that which is the most sacred thing among men. ACT IV. SCENE I. Orestes, Py lades, Chorus, Electra. Orest. Ladies, have we been rightly informed 1 Doth this way lead us where we desire to be ? ELECTRA. 97 Cho. Where? What place do you seek for? Orest. ^gisthus's palace. Cho, Thou art come right, and hast had some skilful guide. Orest. Which of you, ladies, will tell those within of the agreeable news of our arrival ? Cho. Let the princess, since it is fit a relation should tell it. Orest. Go in, madam, and tell that some Pho- cians desire to see ^dsthus. Elect. Woe is me ! Do you bring a confirmation of that report which we heard? Orest. I know not the report you speak of, but a certain old man, Strophius, sent me to speak something about Orestes. Elect. What is it, stranger ? How my fears seize me ! Orest. We come to bring the relicks of the dead prince, in that small urn which you see. Elect. Woe is me ! now the thing is plain, I can doubt no more of my miserable state. Orest. If you mourn the death of Orestes, know that his body is in that urn. Elect. Generous stranger, let me by the gods, if that vessel contains him, take it in my arms, that I may lament and mourn myself and all my family, with these ashes. ' Orest. Grant her request, you that carry the urn, let her be who she will ; for it is not out of hatred she urges this request, but she is one of his friends, or some near relation. Elect. [Taking the urn in her arms.l * O sad ^ O sad monument of the most.] This part of the fable is very moving of the passions ; for, as upon hearing the passionate com- plaints of Electra, and for so just a cause, we must needs grieve with her ; so are we aflfected with equal joy when she is surprised with the agreeable news that the person she speaks to is her bro- ther. And thus, in Homer, Penelope grieves for Ulysses while he is present with her. H 98 ELECTRA, monument of the most beloved of men to me, the reUcks of my dear Orestes! JHow different are the hopes in which I now receive you from those in which I sent you out ? Now I carry thy ashes in my hands, but I sent thee from home strong, and in health. How do I wish you had been slain, be- fore I formed a design to hide you, and send you into a strange land to save your life, that in that day you had died, and shared one common tomb with your father. Instead thereof, in a foreign land an exile, in a most cruel manner you have perished without your sister to pay you her last offices ; nor had I the sad "' coiisolation with my loving hands " Consolation with my loving hands to wash your mangled corse.] The custom of washing dead bodies and anointing them with precious ointment and oil is very ancient, and was used in Greece long before Homer's time. Thus they anointed Patroclus, Koc) TOTE ^yj "Kiicrctvlof xa» ri'Kn-^ocv Tk^tc tKa,\u. It is true, no other material is here mentioned but oil, or any where else in Homer, who frequently mentions this custom. Yet Athaeneus will allow of no distinction between this oil and /.typo ; or ointment, properly so called. The Greeks received this cus- tom from the Phoenicians, and the Romans received it from the Tuscans, who were originally Tyrians. We read in Ennuis, — Tarquinii corpus bona foemina lavit et unxit. So in Virgil, ^Eneid. ix. the mother of Euryalus is introduced, making the same complaints for her son, which Electra doth here. Nee tuafunem mater Produsci, pressive oculos, cut vulnera lavi. What pangs of grief my throbbing breast invade, To think thy mangled carcass was not laid Forth on its pile by me. Oh, sad surprise ! That I wasn't bye to close thy beauteous eyes ; Just as th' expiring soul did take her flight Into the regions of infernal night ! Oh ! had I wash'd each wound, each sever'd vein, When thou, scarce cold, laid'st weltering on the plain ! Mr.AbelL Servius hath well remarked, that all the care of preparing the dead for burial belonged to near relations, but especially to the mother or sister ; who, for that reason, were called Funereal nam apud majores funereas dicebant eas ad quasfunus pertinebat, tit sororenif matrem, Potter Dac, ELECTRA. ^.9 to wash your mangled corse; "nor have I collected your sad remains out of the funeral pile, as it was iit I should. Now, dear prince, strangers have given thee these marks of their piety, and this day have brought thee in a small urn. Woe is me ! How unprofitable was the pleasing care I took to bring you up ? Nor did your mother love you more than I, nor was your education the care of any other, in our house, but myself; I was always called your sister. Now all those things are gone, in one day dead with you, and the storm which carried you away hath ravished with it all my hopes. My father is gone ; you have followed him ; and I go to join you : yet our enemies laugh, our unnatu- ral mother cannot resist her transports of joy. How many times have your private letters made me hope that you would come and punish her? But our miserable fortune hath prevented you from executing your promise, who hath sent you to me, instead of your lovely form, ashes and a vain shadow. Woe is me ! O, miserable body ! Alas ! O most loved brother! Alas the day that ever I sent you into Phocis ! How have you destroyed me ! you have " Nor have I collected your sad remains out of the funeral pile. 1 The original is an -s-a/iA^XExItf wypo? avEtAojLtfy, uqi\xoq\ ol^Xiov Qacoq, Which the Cambridge edition, printed A.D. 1665, and another at Frankfort, 1549, both falsely render, neque in ignem junta morem levavi miserum cadaver. This mistake will appear plainer by taking notice of the following custom of the ancients, which was thus: — After the body of the deceased was burned on the funeral pile, they collected the bones and ashes. Thus Homer says the brother of Hector did at his funeral. II. : retarded, but inarch. JEgisth. Thou lead. , Orest, You must go before. ^gisth. Is this because you fear I should escape /S, Orest, Not so, but I must take care lest you feel any comfort in your death, but that it be grievous to you. " There ought immediately to be such a pun- ishment inflicted on all who will act contrary to the laws, to die sooner ; then such flagitious crimes would be less frequent. Cho. O race of Atreus ! who after you had suf- fered an infinite number of evils for the sake of liberty, hast, with difficulty, at last obtained it by this present effect of your courage. ° There ought immediately to he such a punishment inflicted.^ This piece cannot end better than by these words of Orestes, that this might appear an act of justice, and that the audience might not look upon him as an assassin or a parricide, but an ex ecutor of divine vengeance, and an instrument which God had mnde use of to punish so horrible a crime. THE TRAGEDY OP OEDIPUS TYRANNUS liratnatt^ ^tv^onu. Oedipus, King of Thebes. High Priest of Jupiter. Creon, Brother to Jocasta. TiRESiAS, a Prophet. A Messenger from Corinth, an old Shepherd. Another Shepherd, who had belonged to Laius. Chorus of old Theban Priests and other ancient Thebans. Jocasta, Widow of Laius and Wife of Oedipus. 3Iute Persons, A Multitude of Theban Youths. Oedipus's Children. SCENE— Before Oedipus's Palace at Thebes, i2 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. The Argument. — This Tragedy of Oedipus had the title oj Tyr annus, a tyrant, or king, added to it in the latter times, but for what reason, whether because it excels all his other pieces ; or, because of the description it gives us of the miseries of that prince, or only to distinguish it from the other Oedipus, called Coloneus, it is not certain. The subject of it is as follows : — Laius, King of Thebes, having been warned by the oracle that his own son should murder him, marry his mother, and succeed him in his throne ; to prevent these mischiefs, delivered his son, as soon as he ivas born, to one of his servants to be murdered ; but the servant moved with compassion slew him not, but gave him to a shepherd of Poly bus, king of Corinth, and the shepherd to the king. Polybus having no child of his own, received him gra- ciously, as did his wife Merope, who brought him up as their own. Oedipus going to inquire of the oracle conctrning his birth, in a place where three ways meet, chanced to meet and kill his father. Whereupon there ensued a dreadful pestilence, which wasted Thebes and all the neighbouring country, ivhich was not to cease until any one should resolve the cenigma of Sphinx, which many tried to do in vain. At last, Oedipus resolved it ; the people of Thebes therefore, as a reward of ?iis service, gave him his own mother in marriage, whom, not knowing to be so, he accepted ; but the truth being found out, he pulled out his own eyes, and his wife and mother hanged herself. This story, whether we consider the heinousness of the crimes that unhappy prince was guilty of, and at the same time how he committed them all merely out of ignorance, or those surprising incidents by which they were dis- covered, and the fatal consequences that discovery produced to his whole house, is confessedly the noblest subject that ever a tragedy was composed upon. But yet Aristotle observes one default in it, that it was not probable Oedipus should be so long married to Jo- casta, and not know after what manner Laius was slain, nor in- quire after the author of his murder. But as that subject could not subsist without it, Sophocles did not think fit to omit it, but placed it out of the action of the tragedy ; and a -poet is only answerable for those incidents which enter the composition of his fable, not those which go before, or follow after. Wherefore Aristotle lays it down as a rule, cap. xvi. of his Poetics. " It is absolutely necessary, that among all the incidents which " compose the fable, no one be without reason ; or if that be im- " possible, it ought to be so ordered, that that which is without " reason, be out of the tragedy ; as Sophocles has prudently ob- " served in his Oedipus." ACT I. SCENE I. At the opening of the Scene there appears, in a Court before the Palace, an Altar raised to Oedipus, at which are prostrate a great Number of Theban Youths, the High Priest of Jupiter, with the other Priests of the several Temples, at Sacrifice. At a Distance are discovered the two Temples of Pallas, the Altar of fsmenus, with Crowds of People round them. Oedipus comes out of the Palace to them. Oed. ^ O children, young offspring' of ancient Cadmus, why are you prostrate at these altars, adorned ^ with sacred boughs? The whole city * O children, young offspring of ancient Cadmus.^ The The- bans are so called, because Cadmus, the son of Agenor, being sent to seek his sister Europa, in his travels built Thebes ; and afterwards Amphion, son of Jupiter and Antiope, with the sweet- ness of his lyre, caused the senseless stones to raise themselves into the walls which surrounded the city ; but the truth is, that he civilized them with good laws and customs, who before were rude and uncivilized. Hence they are called in the Antigone, Ka^^» ** With sacred boughs.] The ancients when they went into their temples to pray, every one carried in his hand branches stuck in wool, and sometimes they were crowned with them ; the boughs were olive when they prayed or sacrificed to Minerva, when to Apollo, laurel ! wherefore Homer says of Chryses, Apollo's priest. Of the same use was the M^ioq %srciv^oq mentioned in the A jax, which consisted of locks of hair. The Jews had a festival in which they carried branches, as they did likewise on all occasions of public rejoicing ; as you may read, 1 Maccab. xiii. 51 . '' And " entered into it the three-and-twentieth day of the second month, " in the hundred seventy and one year with thanksgiving, and " branches of palm trees, and with harps, and cymbals, and with ** viols, and hymns and songs," &c. From them it passed to the Greeks, who celebrated the same festival and called it, ocr^oipo^ta, oscophoria, uvro t» roiq Icr^o^q, i. e. from carrying boughs !iuug with grapes, which were termed o!r%a». The institution and man- ner of it are described at large by Plutarch, in the Life of Theseus. IIB OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. is filled with smoke of sacrifices, likewise with prayers addressed to Apollo, mixed with lamenta- tions. I sent no person to demand the cause of your affliction, but am come myself for that purpose, Oedipus a prince so famous through all the world. But thou, old man, speak first, since it is fit a man of your age should speak before these youths. Why are you prostrate here ? Is it on the account of your present or fear of future sufferings ? You shall find me always ready to assist you, for surely I were hard-hearted, if I did not lament the occasion of this concourse. High Priest. O thou, who rulest our land ! You see the age and the state of us who are prostrate at "" your altars : some of whom are too young to go far hence, and some too old. These are the principal priests of all our temples ; I am a priest of Jove ; these a company of youths ; another tribe sit crown- ed at the ^ two temples of Pallas, others at the prophetic altar ^ of Ismenus. The city, as thou ^ At your altars.] Gr, ^uixoTa-i, which the old Scholiast calls , votoTai, which contain the altar, for thus he describes the temples, Naoq and Upov, or the whole edifice, in which are contained Bw/xo?, the altar, on which they offered their oblations. 2. Yl^ovuoq, the porch before the temple. 8. Te/x,£vo?, where the image stood of the chief god. But with submission here was no temple, for the altar was raised in the middle of the court, that the action might be public and visible. ^ Two temples of, S^c] Pallas had two temples in Thebes, one consecrated to Minerva, "oUk, a Phoenician word, which signifies, grand, or, aXaA>to/>tEi/*iK, i. e. the assister ; the other to Minerva, ^Io-/xr!i'»a, and took its name from Ismenus, a river which ran through Thebes. But some say the former was not in Thebes, but in a neighbouring village, ^schylus in his seven captains against Thebes invokes her by the former name, Iv [xdxoi'KJ'i rs /Aaxai, poivoca- OJxa. ® Altar of Ismenus.] Gr. 'Io-^evs rs ^oi.v\t\cf, o-to5&>, the prophetic ashes of Ismenus ; near the river Ismenus there was a temple sacred to Apollo, where the priests burnt sacrifices, and consulted the flames, and thence delivered prophesies. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 119 seest thyself, as a tempest-beaten ship, is almost sunk, not able to withstand the fury of the raging waves. The earth is made ban-en of all her fruits, her flocks all perish, and mothers die with their infants. The most ciniel pestilence with a de- vouring fire ravages the city, and deprives it of its inhabitants ; and black Pluto grows rich by our mournings and lamentations. Wherefore neither I nor these young men present are prostrate at your altars, as if we judged you equal with the gods ; but we address ourselves to you as to the first of men, and as to one who is alone able to ease us of those calamities which oppress us, and to recon- cile us to the favour of the gods. It is you, who coming to this city freed us from the tribute which we paid to the cruel goddess, and on that sad occa- sion you received no succours but fiiom the gods Who inspired you ; wherefore with justice we look upon you as our only deliverer. And now, O most powerful Oedipus, we all turn our eyes toward you, and do beseech you, find out some remedy against our evils, either by consulting the Gods, or joining in consultation with men ; for I see that wise men often find certain succours in the greatest evils. Go now, thou best of men, raise up your ruined city, pity our sad state, as now this land calls you its saviour, by reason of our former deliverance, which we owe to you ; for we shall by no means remember your former benefits, if, after you have saved our lives, you suffer us to perish miserably: but now preserve the city, as before you made fortune smile on your dejected people ; now be like thyself, re- member that ^ the number of subjects makes the grandem- of princes, and that without men, fortres- ses and ships are entirely useless. ^ The number of subjects^ S^c] Alcaeus calls men ^v^fn a^^ot, martial towers. And Demosthenes says, "Av^^ti; ya,^ Waik, xa< a Tji;^»i, the men are the city, not the walls. 120 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. Oed. Miserable children, I aim not ignorant of the ^'important cause which brings you here, nor of what you wish for ; for weli 1 know those evils which afMict you. But your sufferings are nothing in comparison of mine, every one of you feels but his own evil, but my soul is every way oppressed with its own grief, with yours and all my people : think not your cries have awaked me from my sleep, but you know how many tears I've shed, and that my spirit hath long contended with a thousand different thoughts: in this sad agitation I have used that remedy which I thought most proper to hasten your deliverance ; I have sent Creon, the son of Menoeceus, my wife's brother, to the temple of Apollo, to inquire of that god the way to save this city. And when I consi- der the long time he hath been absent, I am sur- prised that he is not yet returned, nor can I com- prehend the reason of his too long delay. But when he comes, then I should be the worst of men if I did not execute all that the god commands. High Priest. My lord you speak of Creon in a pro- per time, for these children inform me that he is near. Oed. I wish he comes with ^ as good luck as he appears pleasant in his countenance. High Priest. He doth so, otherwise he would not come with his head crowned with laurel. Oed. We shall soon know, for he is near enough for us to inquire the truth of him. ACT I. SCENE II. Oedipus, Creon, High Priest, other Priests, and Thebans. Oed. O prince, my beloved kinsman, what answer do you bring us from the god ? 2 As good luck.] Gr. h rvxji y^ ra. The particles ra and t5, with the ^olicks and Atticks, are common to both masculine and feminine genders ; as, KXvcj t5 craATrtyfo?, I bear a trumpet, ts xC*'**?? or what cause or necessity. Vet. Schol. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 121 Cre. A good answer, for I say that our misfor- tunes will end if the issue prove right. Oed. What speech is that? It gives me neither ground to fear or hope. Ore. If you will hear the will of God, in the pre- sence of these, I am ready to speak it ; otherwise I will follow you into the palace. Oed. Speak before them all, for I am not so much in pain for myself as for my afflicted people. Cre. I will speak what I heard of the god. Phoebus plainly commanded us to drive pollution out of this land, as being nourished in it, and not suffer in it one moment the monster which is the ob- ject of his wrath. Oed. How doth he direct us to pvirge the land ? Cre. We must either drive to banishment the mur- derer of Laius, or make him expiate with his own blodd, the blood which he hath shed. Since Laius's blood unrevenged afflicts the land. Oed. Who is this whom the oracle hath thus de- clared to us hath shed blood ? Cre. Laius, my lord, was goveiiior of this land before you ruled it. Oed. I know it, but I never saw him. Cre. It is his death the oracle commands us to revenge, by punishing his murderers. Oed. But in what part of the earth are they, and where will that unsearchable footstep be found out, to trace the author of a crime committed so long ago? Cre. He said here in Thebes ; for that which we seek may be found, but that which is neglected, easily escapes. Oed. Whether did Laius happen to meet this death, at home, or in the field, or in another land ? Cre. As he travelled out to consult the oracle, and never returned home since that moment. Oed. Did no messenger or guide, who went with 122 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. him in the way return, of whom we may inquire and know the truth ? Cre. They are all dead, one excepted, who fled away for fear, who could tell but one thing of all that passed. Oed, What was that? For the smallest light that one can discern often sufficeth to make an entire discovery. Cre. He said a company of thieves killed him, and that he fell oppressed by numbers. Oed. What thief durst venture to commit so great a crime, had he not been encouraged by the promise of some great reward ? Cre. It was supposed they lay in ambush for him ; when this prince died, we found no succour in our evils. Oed. What so great evil then hindered you from making search for the murderers of your king ? Cre. Sphinx forced us to think only of our present evil, and neglect those whose author was more un- certain. Oed. But I will lay all open from the beginning, it is with justice that Apollo ordered us by your mouth to revenge this murder ; wherefore ^ you shall find me your assistant. I will expiate this land, and justify the oracle of the god : and herein it is not for any of my relations, but for myself I labour ; I de- ^ You shall find me your assistant, Sfc] Observe how nicely Sophocles manages the character of Oedipus, so as to make him appear what a tragedian ought to chuse as a proper subject of his tragedy, that is, neither bad nor good in the superlative degree. For, as he is here represented as a good prince, and one who omit- ted nothing that could any way conduce to the good of his people, yet hath he in several instances shewed himself to be imprudent, violent, and proud. Yet were not those crimes properly the cause of his misfortunes, but his rashness and curiosity ; for Creon tells liim hereafter: such tempers as yours are insupportable to them- selves. And these are the vices which Sophocles would have us correct. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 123 fend myself from the violence of an assassin : for whosoever it was that killed Laius, would imbrue likewise his hands in my blood: so that while I labour for his vengeance, at the same time I provide for my own security. Wherefore quickly, children, rise from these seats, taking in your hands those sacred boughs, let another gather the people of Thebes together here ; while I try all methods. This discovery which the god hath made us will either end our lives or our evils. High Priest. O children, let us rise, since we only come to demand what the king hath executed, and may Phoebus, who gave those oracles, be our saviour and healer of all our evils. [ ' Exeunt all hut the Priests who compose the Chorus, ^ Exeunt all hut the priests who compose the Chorus.] The old Scholiast hath mistaken the persons of whom the Chorus of this tragedy consists, for he tells us that s^na-iv o le^tvq 'sx^ot^xq ^i oVa^ ^X6£v • a/xa ^g Kou vtte^ t5 %w§av slvon Ire^a t"jro;t^t]^, and a little after, (Tvyt.^'Kvt^tirxi. The high priest goes out, having done that which he came to do, and likewise to make room for another actor — accord- ing to the king's command come in certain ancient men, of whom the Chorus is composed. But he seems to be sufficiently confuted by the learned Mr. Dacier, for how is it possible that ancient men who arrived on the theatre but the moment that the high priest and youths who accompanied him departed, should know the oracle which Creon brought from Apollo, and so make reflections so suitable to it as they do in the following song? It is most reason- able, therefore, that the Chorus should consist of such persons as had taken possession of the theatre from the beginning of the ac- tion. The words of Sophocles are sufficient to confute this error, for he tells us the age and the state of those who are assembled at the altar, viz. himself at the head of a select number of Theban youths, and the other priests of the several temples; he retires after he had performed what belonged to his office, and the youths along with him, it being neither suitable to the dignity of the high priest nor the capacity of the youths to be of the Chorus. It remains, therefore, that the other priests who were present from the beginning of the action had heard the oracle, and what else passed between Oedipus and Creon, in order to a discovery of tbc murderers, must compose the Chorus, until they are joined by others of the principal citizens. 124 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. ACT I. SCENE III. Chorus. Cho, O divine oracle which came from the rich Pythian temple to famous Thebes, my spirits are seized with astonishment and fear. O Dehan king*, Healer, I worship thy divinity. Tell me, divine oracle, what effects of thy beneficence shall we re- ceive now, or in process of time ? daughter of golden hope. You, O immortal Minerva, daughter of Jove, first I invoke ; and Diana, governess of the earth, which hath a famous throne in this city, and thou Apollo, the Darter, I invoke likewise ; you three re- pellers of evil be favourable, since you expelled the evil which as a raging fire consumed our city, come still to my assistance, O ye gods, I bear numberless evils. All the people are feeble and languishing, and our oppressed spirits cannot furnish us with the least succour ; nor can the fruits of the earth arrive to their maturity, neither are the women able to bear the throes of child-birth. You may see one fall dead upon another, who swifter than a well- winged fowl or lightning, roll themselves toward the shore of the infernal god, so that the city is daily more and more deserted. An infinite number of misera- ble abortives lie dead unlamented on the ground ; mothers and grandmothers oppressed with evils as- sembled from all parts, prostrate themselves at these altars, which they regard as a secure port, and de- mand of the gods an end of these evils. The prayers which they address to Apollo are mixed with cries and lamentations. Wherefore, O thou beauteous daughter of Jove, espouse our cause, and expel this wicked Mars out of this country, either into the vast bed of Amphitrite, or into the Euxine sea, which dashes against the Thracian rocks. What the night leaves unperformed the day accomplishes. O Jupiter, OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. v 125 who rulest the powers of the purple hghtnings, con- sume him with your lightning. O! Lycian king, send your invincible arrows from your golden bow for our assistance : and thou Diana, enhghten us with thy purple rays wherewith thou passest over the Lycian mountains. Thee I invoke also, adorned with a golden mitre, drinking Bacchus, companion of the Moenades, to come to our help, burning with your bright torch this most inglorious of all the gods. ACT II. SCENE I. Oedipus, Chorus, Attendants. Oed. ^ You ask, but if you would obtain your re- quest, you must listen unto my words, and assist yourselves by obeying my decree, and you may ob- tain a remedy against your evils. Mine, who here- tofore never thought of speaking of this murder, nor could I be suspected of having any share in it. I would not have enterprized to search the author of this crime, unless I had some certain signs how to discover him : but now, since I am of the number of the citizens, I decree to all you Thebans, that w^ho- ^ You ask, but if you would obtain your request.] Oedipus being resolved to use all means in his power to discover the mur- derer of Laius, first encourageth all his subjects to assist him, by telling them, that as he was the cause of the pestilence, if he were discovered and expelled, that would cease. Wherefore he lays his strict commands, that whoever knew where he was, should in- stantly discover him, and promises the discoverer both a reward and thanks for his service. And to encourage the murderer to discover himself, he says he shall suffer nothing but banishment out of the city, a small punishment for so great a crime, and only equal with that which the Romans called minor capitis diminutio, which is as Paul. Jurisc. expresseth it, cum amittimus civitatem, et libertatem retinemus. But if nothing will prevail upon them to discover him, he lays the utmost curse upon him, viz. that he 'jhould be driven from all thinus common. 126 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. soever of you knows him who slew Laius, the son of Labdacus, that he discover him to me. But if he who committed the crime fears to come and ac- cuse himself, I shall free him from that fear, he shall suffer no other punishment but exile. But if any one knew any otlber his murderer, of any other land, let him not be silent, for I will give him thanks, and a reward proportionable to so great a service. But if you will still be silent, and any one out of fear for his friend or himself holds his peace, then hear what I shall do. I forbid that man, whosoever he is, to be received into this land, whose government I pos- sess, to speak to any body, or to be made a commu- nicant of the prayers and sacrifices of the gods, or- to ^ partake of the holy water : but I command that all should chase him from their houses, and pursue him as the miscreant who pollutes this land, as the Pythian oracle of the god has manifestly declared to me. And so I will accomplish the will of the god, and revenge the dead, and I curse him that did it, whether he being one conceals himself, or if he had his accomplices, to drag a miserable life. And I beseech the gods, that I may suffer the sad effects of those imprecations, if the murderer be in my palace and I am conscious to it. And I beseech you all to execute all those decrees, both for your love of me, and the respect which you owe to the god, and for the compassion which you are obliged to have for your country, which is so barren, and so miserably destroyed. For if the gods did not positively de- mand vengeance, yet were it not convenient for you to see this murderer pass impunished, and not to ^ Partake of the holy water.] The ancients had a custom, that before they went to sacrifice, all those who partook thereof should wash their hands, and the water in which they washed was called xE^vt^/, and with this water likewise they were afterwards sprinkled by the priests; on both which accounts the poets ust Xiifi^ltd^on instead of U^a, p«{«»v, to offer sacrifice. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 127 pursue the murderer of so great a man, and your king. At present I possess tbe throne of which he was seized ; the queen his spouse hath raised me to her bed, and chosen me for her husband, and his children hkewise would have been mine if he had had any. But since the powers denied him those blessings, now that misfortune hath oppressed him, I will supply their place and labour for him as for my own father. I will try every method to find out the author of the murder of this descendant of ancient Agenor. And to those which do not obey my orders, I pray to the gods that the land may refuse her fruits, and that their wives may die without children, and that themselves may die such a death or a worse than threatens them. But to us, who with all our hearts consent to what I have said, may justice be an assistant, and may the eternal gods favour us vdth their protection. Cho, My lord, as you have bound me by a curse to discover the murderer, I declare I neither killed him, nor do I know who killed him : but to resolve that question belongs to him that sent the oracle. Oed. You have spoke right, but ™no man can force the gods to speak what they will not. Cho, I have still a second advice to give you. Oed. And if you have after that a third, do not omit to speak it. Cho. "King Tiresias hath the same knowledge " No man can force the gods.] Oedipus makes this answer to the Chorus, to prevent the fiction of their sending again to the oracle, lest it should cause too long a delay in the drama, which to the audience would taste but insipid : nor was it necessary, for it is plain that the same oracle which declared the cause of the pestilence, did likewise point out the murderer, though Creon, for fear of the king's displeasure, would not discover it. " King Tiresias.] The Chorus calls him king, because of his prophetic spirit, not for any civil power which he possessed. It may not be improper to insert here a passage out of Dr. Potter's Archaeol. Graec. which fully justifies the Chorus in giving Tiresias 128 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. with Apollo in this affair ; and by consulting him you may discover what ygu search for. Oed, Nor was I negligent in that affair ; but, by the advice of Creon, I sent two messengers for him, and it is a wonder why he is absent so long. Cho. There are other reports concerning his death, but they are frivolous and vain. Oed. What are they ? For I weigh every thing I hear. Cho. He is said to have been slain by some tra- vellers. Oed. And I too heard that, but can find none who can say he saw the murder committed. Cho. But though he be a little fearful of the dis- covery, he will not attend the effect of your impre- cations. Oed. Who does not fear to act the crime, will not fear the imprecations. Cho, But he who discovers him is come, for they this title. '* It has been the custom of all nations to pay a pecu- *• liar honour to their priests; which was partly done out of re- " spect to the gods, whom they represented, and partly because " they did not pray for a blessing on themselves, their own fami- " lies, and friends only, but on whole communities, on the whole " state of mankind. They were accounted mediators between " gods and men, being obliged to offer the sacrifices and prayers " of the people to their gods — and on the other side B^y.vivevlcd " voi^a, ^suv uv^^uTToiq, deputed by the gods to be their interpreters " to men, to instruct them how to pray for themselves, what it *' was most expedient to ask, what sacrifices, what vows, what " gifts, would be most acceptable to the gods; and, in short, to •* teach them all the ceremonies used in divine worship. — On this " account the priests were honoured with the next place to their ** kings and chief magistrates ; and in many places wore the same " habits. These were often consecrated to the priesthood. Thus Anius, in Virgil, was king of Delos, and priest of Apollo. " Rex Anius, Rex idem hominum Phcehique saoerdos." The same author proves by a passage in Plutarch, that uvliyfoTroi h ro rviq U^uavvvtq a|i&/|i/,a 'iv^oc to t^? /3ccirtAi»af, the dignity of priest* was equal to that of kings. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 129 bring hither a divine prophet, who alone of all men speaks nothing but the truth. ACT II. SCENE II. Oedipus, Tiresias, Chorus, 6fC. Oed, Wise Tiresias, who knowest all things which can be known, who knowest the secrets of the hea- vens and of the earth's dark womb ; though you are deprived of the day's light, yet you cannot fail of knowing the evils in which this city is plunged, of which, O king, we regard thee the only saviour and helper. If our messengers have not already informed thee, Phoebus has sent word to us that our freedom from this disease would only be ob- tained by searching diligently the murderers of Laius, and either putting them to death, or expel- ling them out of the kingdom. But thou conceal not from us the truth, but consult the voice of birds, make use of all ways of divination, deliver thyself and the city, deliver me, instruct us how to appease the blood which cries against us ; we rely on thee, and remember that to succour the miserable is the noblest of labours. Tir, " Alas ! alas ! How often doth knowledge make us unhappy ? For what I know now undoes me : I should not have come hither. Oed. What is the reason that you come hither in such amazement ? ° Alas! alas! How often, &fc.'] Tricliiiius says, that Tiresias begins with this sad exclamation, as fearing some mischief from Oedipus, if he should discover him to be the cause of the pesti- lence, but this doth not agree with what he says afterwards. — » yoi^ (At f/,oTpu 'm^oq yi as TnosTv It is not my fate to die by thee ; and"^ WTTUfA, a TO crov dnucK; 'STfoa-wTrov. I go hence, nol fearing your face. 130 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. Tir. Dismiss me hence; your evils and mine likewise will be more supportable if you will follow my counsel. Oed, What you say is unjust, and in refusing to answer us, you refuse to succour this city which brought you up. Tir. I see that your demand will plunge you into the worst of evils, therefore force me not to speak. Cho, Nay, by the gods, do not return so ; since we all, as suppliants, adore you. Tir. Yes ; but you do not all understand what you do ; but I by no means will discover the evils which environ you, as I shall do if I speak what I know. Oed. What say you? Though you know the truth, will you conceal it ? Can you betray us, and suffer your country entirely to be destroyed ? Tir. It is for your sake no less than my own that I am silent. Why do you rashly accuse me ? If I should speak, you would not listen to me. Oed. Thou worst of fellows, thou wouldest en- rage the hardest rocks ; wilt thou tell us nothing ? Art thou so inexorable and morose in thy anger ? Tir. You have upbraided me ^vith my anger, but consider not your own, therefore you insult me. Oed. Who would not be angry to hear these words, and to see how dishonourably you treat your country ? Tir. The evils which I see will come to pass of themselves, though I conceal them. Oed. Therefore you ought to tell me what will come to pass. Tir. I will not speak any farther, be you trans- ported with never sO fierce anger. Oed. Therefore, thus enraged as I am, I can neither regard measures, nor dissemble any thing. It appears to me that you were an accomplice in this crime, though your hands be free from the very OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 131 fact; but, if you had your eyes, I should accuse you as the only author of it. Tir. True, but I declare that you are obnoxious to those imprecations which you have pronounced ; and that, from this present day, you are neither per- mitted to speak to me nor your subjects, but that we ought all to look upon you as the monster which draws down upon this land the wrath of heaven. Oed, With what impudence darest thou invent this falsehood? do you think to escape my resent- ment? Tir. I do ; for truth is stronger than injustice. Oed, Who discovered this truth ? not your art. Tir. You did, for you forced me unwillingly to speak. Oed. What? speak again that I may understand you better. Tir. Do you not understand yet? or do you tempt me to speak ? Oed. It is not to tempt you. But speak again. Tir. I say that you are the murderer of this man whose murderer you seek. Oed. Do you glory in the affront you put upon me, and again repeat it ? Tir. And what if I should speak all that I know ? How much more then would you be enraged ? Oed. Say as much as you please, it will be all said in vain. Tir. I say that you, unknown to yourself, do converse criminally with your nearest rela- tion, and see not into what an abyss of misery you are plunged. Oed. And dost thou think that I will always bear this, and suffer thee to triumph ? Tir. Yes ; for truth hath ever the greatest power. Oed. It hath ; but truth is not in thee, since thou art no less blind in the eyes of thy mind than in the eves of thv bodv. K 2 132 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. Tir. But thon art a wretch to upbraid me witli these things, with which there is none of these pre- sent who will not upbraid thee soon. Oed. Thy life is only preserved by thy darkness in which thou art plunged, and but for that, this is the last time that ever any should behold thee. Tir. It is not my fate to fall by you, for Apollo is my safeguard. Oed. Are these Creon's inventions or yours ? Tir. Creon has done you no injury, but you alone have injured yourself. Oed. O wealth and power, and art excelling all arts, how dost thou expose us to envy ? Since, for the sake of this crown, which the people, with one consent, have placed upon my head, Creon, my once faithful friend, hath laid a snare for me, and stirred up against me that old enchanter, that im- postor who is clear-sighted only in his interest, but is blind in his art. Wherefore, say how is it possi- ble that you should be a true prophet ? When that horrid monster. Sphinx, destroyed the land, why did you not find out some way to deliver it ? And to explain that enigma was not for any ordinary person, but there needed a prophetic spirit which you have not, and which the gods never gave thee ; but I, p Oedipus, an ignorant person, came and ex- plained the enigma with my ingenuity ; nor did I find it out by consulting birds. I did it, whom you attempt to banish, thinking to be Creon's principal favourite; but this plot may fall upon your own head and his who was the author of it : and, had I not some reverence for your age, I would make P /, Oedipus^ an ignorant persoti.] This Oedipus says of himself, through modesty; whereas, indeed, his wit, which he discovered in solving the enigma of Sphinx, grew into a proverb, as we find by the words of Davus, in Terence: — Davus sum, non Oedipus. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 133 thee by sad experience know the effects of your wicked designs. Cho. Both the words of Tiresias, and those of Oedipus, seem to us who have considered them with cooler reason, to be only spoke in anger. This is no proper time to speak our private resent- ments, but to consider how we may best solve the oracle of the god. Tir. Though you are king, it is but just that I answer you with the same freedom which you use in speaking to me. I am not your subject, but Apollo's, neither will I employ Creon to protect me ; but (I say) since you have reproached me as blind, you yourself see, but see not in what evils you are plunged, neither where you live, nor with whom you dwell. But do you know of whom you are born ? And do you not know that you are an ene- my to your nearest relations, both those who are dead, and those on the earth ? The bitter curses on both sides, which you derive from your father and your mother, drive you out of the earth, who though you see now, hereafter you will be plunged in dark- ness ; and in what place will not you make your cries be heard? What mountain will not echo your complaints? when you perceive what an unhappy marriage you have sailed into, after a prosperous voyage. You know not yet of all your evils, which will put you in the number of your children ; and now reproach Creon and me as much as you please for this freedom ; but no more criminal wretch than thyself Avill ever meet his deserved fate. Oed, Must I then hear this speech from him? Begone to perdition quickly ; begone from our palace, away. Tir. I would not have come if you had not called me. Oed. I did not know you would talk such foolish 134 OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. things, otherwise I would not have called you hither in such haste. Tii\ You accuse me of folly, but your father thought me wise. Vg^'^'^S' Oed. Who ! stay. Who was my father ? Tir. This same day will give you both your birth and your death. Oed. How mysterious and dark are all your words ! Tir, Therefore you are the properest to explain them. Oed. You reproach me with a thing which made all my grandeur. Tir. It is that grandeur which has mined you. Oed. But, if I have preserved the city, my own safety is of small importance to me. Tir. I go hence ; and thou, boy, lead me. Oed. Let him lead you aw ay ; your presence is here but importunate, and you only trouble us; when you are gone we shall be easy. Tir. I go away, since I have said those things on the account of which I came hither ; nor do I fear your face, for it is not in your power to kill me. I tell thee, then, that this man whom a while ago thou didst pursue with threats and decrees, as the murderer of Laius, is here. He passes for a stran- ger, but he will soon appear to be a home-bom Theban ; nor will his fortune give him much delight, for, blind and poor, he will be a wanderer in a strange land. [Shewing his sceptre, the ensign of his royal dignity.'] He will appear to be a brother and father to his children, a son and husband of her of whom he was bom, his father's son and murderer. Now retire into your palace, and there think on what I have said ; and if that you shall find me to have spoken false, then you may say that I am no prophet. OEDIPUS TYRANNUS. 135 ACT II. SCENE III. Chorus, Strophe I. '^ Who is he whom the prophesying Delphic rock accused to have committed murder, the worst of crimes, with his bloody hands ? Whosoever he is, it is time for him with the swiftest racer's speed to take his flight, for the son of Jupiter, armed with fire and lightning, is prepared to assail him. And the cruel inevitable fates pursue him. Antistrophe I. For the oracle of snowy Parnassus declared that every one should search this man who hides himself. The wretch traverses the forests, searches out the dens and crevices of the rocks, he wanders alone in the fields as a bull, to evade the eifect of the oracles ^ Who is he whom the prophesying y <^c.] The Chorus, being willing to favour Oedipus, nor yet presuming to accuse Tiresias of falsehood, speaks in a doubtful manner, wondering of whom Apollo should speak ; and because Parnassus, a very steep rocky mountain, was near Delphi, and thereon Apollo's oracle, therefore he calls it the Delphic rock. It was supposed to be in the very middle of the earth, for which reason the oracles are a little after called, ra iJt.£a-6[ji,(p(x,Xoc ya. ^^"^^ ^*'^'" suffer- ings : but, on the contrary, they are subject to mortality and many other evils. 198 ANTIGONE. no means extends to mortals, that it should free them altogether from evils. Antistrophe II. Hope, a help to many men, deceitful to the vain desires of others, ensnares him w^ho thinks himself secure, before he runs into danger. A famous pro- verb appears to have been wisely spoken. That what is evil will seem good to him whose mind God leads to that evil from which he is but a short while pre- served. But Haemon, the younger of your children, comes, lamenting the fate of his espoused Antigone, grieving to be defrauded of his bride. ACT III. SCENE I. Creon, H(jBmon, Chorus. Cre. We shall soon know better than any prophet. My son, is it so, that, hearing the final sentence of your spouse, you are come in anger with your father ? Are we not, in whatsoever we do, acceptable to thee? Hcem. O, father, I am yours, and you govern by a right judgment, and which I will follow. It is fit that no marriage should be esteemed greater to me than you governing well. Cre. For so, my child, it is fit you think in your mind that all things are of less esteem than your father s will. It is for this men pray for children ; that, begetting them, they may have them obedient in their houses, that they may repay their enemy with evil, and honour their friend equal with their father. But whosoever begets unprofitable children, what else can you say he doth, but beget sorrows for himself, and much cause of laughter for his ANTIGONE. 199 enemies ? Do not, therefore, my son, sacrifice your reason to the love of a woman, knowing what a cold reception it is to lie within the arms of a wicked woman. What more dangerous wound than what is given by a false friend ? Therefore, as one who spits upon his hated foe, despise her, and suffer the girl to marry some among the dead. Since I have plainly caught her the only rebel of all the city, I will not prove myself a traitor to it, but will kill her, and tlierein let her implore Jove, the guardian of kindred ; for, if I suffer disorders to go unpunished in my own relations, much more I should in stran- gers. He that is just among his own relations will shew himself just to the city ; but whosoever violates the laws, and thinks to order those in power, it is impossible that he should ever get praise of me : but whom the city hath placed in power, it is fit to hear him in small things or in great, just or unjust, and he who doth, I am confident, would govern and obey well, and, being placed in the storms of war, would remain a good ally. For there is no greater evil than disobedience ; it destroys cities, it sets houses at strife, and in war it puts the brave commander to flight. But obedience preserves many subjects. So governments are to be defended by good men, and by no means to be subjected by a woman ; for it is better, if it must be, to fall by a man than to be called the subjects of women. Cho. Unless, through age, we are deprived of sense, you seem to discourse well upon this subject. H(jem. O, father, the gods give men a rational mind, which is the most excellent of all riches ; but, that you say not these things right, I neither can nor know how to judge ; for it may be that this may seem well to another, but your interest ought to be my care, in whatsoever is said or done con- cerning you, and when you are reproached your eye is terrible to the vulgar people, if they speak 200 ANTIGONE. words which are contrary to your will. But I, in secret, can hear how the city laments this maid, who, of all women, does most unworthily and basely die for the most noble deeds ; who sufiiered not her own brother, fallen in fight, lying unburied, to be destroyed by devouring dogs or birds. Is not this worthy to obtain golden honour ? And this is the report which is secretly spread abroad ; but to me, my father, there is no more precious treasure than your prosperity. What greater glory can there be to children than a prosperous father; or to fathers than their prosperous children ? But do not appro- priate to yourself that custom to say, that that which you decree is only right and nothing else, for he who only thinks himself wise, or to have a tongue and understanding excelling all others, commonly meets contempt. But it is not unworthy a wise man to learn many things, and not contend over much. Thou seest at the flowing brooks how many trees do bend and save their boughs ; but those that re- sist are torn up by the roots. So the pilot of a ship who sails along nor submits to the winds, the ship turned upside down, and seats overthrown, is it possible that he should any longer sail ? But thou moderate thy rage, and revoke thy sentence ; for, if I have any understanding, being a youth, ' I say *■ I say that every man fraught with native wisdom.] There is a passage in Hesiod which better explains this : KeTvo(; [xlv 'sroivoi^iToi; hi; a,v\o<; 'mavloc vor^an, (^^oca-aoiixivoq, to, k iTrttla. act] Iq rsXoq eia]v ufAtUu. EctSAo? O dv KOCY-iTvOq Oq £V Bi'TTOvli TTlQjJTaJ. O? ^e KB iJt,rir ocvloq voEYi, iJLy}r ctAAa ukhuv The best is he whom Nature has made wise, ^ And he is next, to whom, when she denies > Her gifts, will hear what prudent men advise. ) But, for that fool, he scarce is fit to live, Who won't obey what counsel others give. ANTIGONE. 201 that every man fraught with native wisdom much exceeds others ; but he that is not, (since every man is not so,) merits the second praise, who listens to those that give good counsel. Cho, My lord, it is fit, if he speaks to the purpose, you should hear him ; and you, Hsemon, your father likewise ; for it is well spoke on both sides. Ore. At these years must we learn wisdom from one so young? H(sm. It is nothing unjust; though I am a young man, it is fit you consider the business, not my age. Ore. The business is to honour those who act basely. Hcem. I would not desire you to honour the wicked. Cre. Is she not wicked ? H(Bm. The people of Thebes say not so. Ore. Shall the city tell me what I ought to order? Hcem. See how you have spoken like a very youth. Ore. Must any other than I govern this land ? Hcem. It is no city which belongs to one man. Ore. Is the city not reckoned to belong to the king? Hcem. You would govern well a desert country. Ore. He, it seems, contends for this woman. Hcem. If you are a woman ; for my care is for you. Ore. Vile youth, thus to oppose his father ! Hcem. I see you are to blame in acting unjustly. Ore. Do I offend by honouring the laws c f the kingdom ? Hcem. You honour them not, but tread down the honours of the gods. To the same purpose, Livy, in his book, De Urbe condita. Minutius convocatis militibus ; scepe ego (inquit) audivi, milites, eum primum esse virum qui ipse consulat quid in rem &it. Secun- dum, eum qui bene monenti obediat : qui nee ipse conmlere, nee alteri parere scit, eum extremi ingenii esse. 202 ANTIGONE. Cre. Vile youth, thus to be captivated by a wo- man! Hwm. You shall not find me the villain you speak of. ^ Cre. This your vv^hole discourse is for her. Hcem. For you and the gods below. Cre. You shall not marry her alive. Hcem. And must she die? Then, dying, she will kill somebody. Cre. Art thou become so bold as to threaten ? Mcem. What, threatening to answer to vain words ? Cre. With tears thou shalt know how vain thy mind is. Hcem. Unless you were my father, I would say you were not wise. Cre. Woman's slave, prate not to me. Hcem, You would speak and not hear my answer. Cre. True; but, by Olympus, know you shall not have reason to rejoice reviling me thus with re- proaches. Go, bring that hated thing, that, before our eyes, she may die in the presence of her spouse. Hcem. Think not so, she shall never die in my presence; you shall not see my face with those eyes. You may be mad among which of your friends you will. \^Exit Hcemon. ACT III. SCENE II. Chorus, Creon. Cho. My lord, the man is gone swiftly away in anger ; such a mind in grief is fierce. Cre. Let him do or think more than is fit for man, he shall never firee those girls fi^om death. Cho. Dost thou think to kill them both ? Cre. Not her who touched him not ; you speak well. ANTIGONE. 203 Cho, What death will you put her to ? Ore. Leading her where is a way deserted of all men, I'll hide her alive in a subten^aneous cave, putting so much food as shall serve her only as a purification, that the city may escape pollution ; there, beseeching Pluto, whom, of all the gods, alone she worships, she shall obtain freedom from death, or then she shall know that it is a superfluous work to worship the gods below. ACT III. SCENE III Antistrophica Strophe. Cho. ' Invincible love ! love, * who hast riches for thy object, Avho sleepest in the soft cheeks of a young maid ! thou traversest the seas and country villages ; none of the immortal gods is able to escape thee, or mortal men ; whoever hath thee is mad. Antistrophe. " Thou seducest the minds of unjust men to in- jury ; thou hast raised that kindred quarrel ; for the powerful love of the eye-brows of a young vir- gin fit for marriage, companion of those invested with powers and administration of great laws, over- comes Haemon, and Venus, the invincible goddess, plays upon him. ^ Invincible love.'\ This song of the Chorus is on the great power of love, which, in this instance, hath set Haemon and his father at strife. * Who hast riches for they object.^ But then it is more proper- ly called covetousness. " Thou seducest the minds of unjust men to commit injuries.^ This was the effect which it had upon Hercules, who, purely for the love of lole, took Oechalia. 204 ANTIGONE. AnAPtESTI. Now, seeing this, myself am forced to transgress the laws, and cannot stop fountains of tears, when I see Antigone going to her everlasting bed. [Seeing Antigone enter. ACT III. SCENE IV. Chorus, Antigone. Antistrophica Strophe I. Ant. You see me, citizens of my father s coun- tiy, going my last journey, seeing the light of the sun the last time, and no more to behold it ; but the grave, which covers all, brings me to the shore of Acheron, no partaker of Hymen's rites ; nor is there any bridal hymn sung to celebrate my nuptials, but I am given in marriage to Acheron. Cho. Therefore, glorious, and having praise, you shall descend to the cave of the dead, untouched by consuming diseases, without receiving wounds of the sword, but free, alive, and by yourself, you shall descend into the grave. Antistrophe I. A7it. "" I have heard that the miserable Phrygian, * / have heard that the miserable Phri/gian.] Antigone com- forts herself, under her affliction, by the example of Niobe. She was daughter of Tantalus, kmg of Phrygia, and wife of Amphion, king of Thebes, who, for her arrogant language to Latona, was, by Apollo and Diana, shot to death and turned into a rock, ac- cording to Ausonius, Epitaph 27. Bis septem natis genitrix tteta atque superba. Tot duxi mater funera quot genui. Nee satis hoc divis ; duro circumdata Saxo Amisi humatii corporis effigiem. ANTIGONE. 205 the daughter of Tantalus, perished at the top of Sipylus, whom, as the ivy twines her arms about the elm, the arms of the rock enfold ; and, as the report of men goes, she is always exposed to the rain, nor doth the snow forsake her, but stains her neck beneath her ever- weeping eye-brows. Woe is me ! fortune makes me submit like her. Anap^esti. Cho. But she w as a goddess, and bom of a god ; but we are mortals, and born of mortals ; it is a noble thing to hear that you have shared the same fate with the goddess, now living, but art to die. Strophe II. Ant. Woe is me! I am laughed at. Why, by the gods of my father, do you injure me, not yet dead, but still alive ? O city, and wealthy men of the city ! O Dircaean fountain, and forest of famous Thebes ! I call you all to witness, how unlamented of my friends, by what laws I come to this dug prison. O wretch ! who, neither alive nor dead, am an inhabitant neither of the living nor the dead. Cho^ Arrived at the highest degree of boldness, thou art fallen to the lowest and worst of punish- ments. O princess, thou still maintainest thy father's conflict. Atistrophe II. Ant. Thou hast touched my bitterest cares, the My fourteen children made me haughty grow. But soon for each a funeral I prepar'd : And, turn'd by gods, relentless, to a stone, 1 mourn my human shape for ever lost. Agathius writes her epitaph thus : 'O TV/X,<00? «T0$ iv^OV »)t ij(li ViKVVy This tomb within no carcass doth contain, And this dead corse doth unentombVl remain. 206 ANTIGONE. famous misery of my father, and the misfortunes which befel the noble descendants of Labdacus. O maternal crimes and kindred, conjunction of my father and miserable mother, from whom I am a wretched woman born, to them I go, an accursed unmarried inhabitant. O brother, who hast been most unfortunate in maniage, for thy death hath been fatal to me yet alive. Clio. To act piously is some piety, but yet let power be to whom power belongs, it is not to be transgressed ; but indignation, which you of Creon drew voluntarily upon, yourself, hath destroyed you. Ant. Unlamented, without friend, an unmarried miserable princess, I am lead to my death ; nor is it longer lawful for me, a wretch, to behold that sacred light of the sun ; none of my friends mourn my unlamented fate! ACT III. SCENE V. Creon, Chorus, Antigone. Cre. But, knowest thou not, none will cease mournings and lamentations before death, if that liberty be granted. Will you not lead her with all speed away, and, shutting her up in a covered tomb, as I said, leave her alone, there let her die, or lie covered alive under that roof? We are guilt- less of the blood of this maid ; but she shall be de- prived of cohabitation with us above. Afit. O tomb, hard marriage-bed ! O perpetual deep habitation ! Whither I go to my friends, whereof, a great number having perished, Proser- pine hath received among the dead ; whereof I, the last and worst, at length descend, before the por- tion of my life is finished ; but, since I must go, I nourish myself much with hopes, that I shall go ANTIGONE. 207 beloved of my father ; of thee, mother, beloved ; be- loved of thee, dear brother ; since, with my own hand, I washed and adorned you, and gave you funeral obsequies. And now, by adorning your body, Polynices, I earn these rewards ; and I have honour- ed you with those who judged right. Nor, were I the mother of children, and if my husband were dead, had I undertaken this labour against a public edict. But by what law do I say this ? why, thus, my husband being dead, another might be had, and a child of another husband ; but if I am deprived of him, my mother and father lying in the grave, it is impossible that another brother should be born to me; and, by that law, preferring you, I thought fit to offend against Creon, and to dare tenible things, sweet brother. And now, taking me, he leads me away by the hands, without Hymen's rites or wedding, nor have I had the happiness to educate a child, but here, deserted of my friends, unfortu- nate, alive, I descend into the dark grave of the dead. What law of the gods transgressing? why should 1, a wretch, look to the gods? whom should I implore for my assistants, since, by acting piously, I have purchased dishonour ; but if this my punish- ment be acceptable with the gods, if I offend, I would forgive the authors of my sufferings ; but, if they offend, let them not suffer other evils than they unjustly bring on me. AnAPtESTI. Cho, Still the same violence of the storms of her soul torments her. Cre. Therefore, they that lead her shall feel the terrible effects of my rage for their slowness. Ant, Woe is me ! the sentence of immediate death is passed. Cre. I nothing comfort you that it will not be executed. 208 ANTIGONE. Ant. O my father's city of Thebes, and the gods of my fathers, I am lead away, and am no more ! Behold, ye princes of Thebes ! the only queen left, what I suffer, and from whom, acting a pious deed. Antistrophica Strophe I. Cho. ^ The body of Danae endured to change celestial light for darkness ; bound by a brazen chain, and in a sepulchral bed inclosed, she was overcome by cruel fate. But she was noble by descent, and kept Jove's golden offspring in her womb ; but fatal power is ci-uel, for neither Mars, nor tower, nor ships beaten by the waves, escape it. AnTI STROPHE I. ^ The angry son of Dryas, king of the Thracians, for his reproachful speeches, was bound by Bacchus to a rock with a chain, and so he loses his cruel florid madness in abusing the god. With reproach- ful language he made the raging women cease, put out ^ the lire of Bacchus, and disturbed the muses lovers of palaces. y The body of Danae.'] She was daughter of Acrisius, king of the Argives, who, being warned by an oracle that he should be slain by his grandchild, kept Danae up from the sight of men ; but Proetus, brother of Acrisius, first corrupted her keepers with gold, and then deflowered Danae. The fable is, that Jupiter came to her through the tiles in a shower of gold. ^ The an^ry son of Dryas,] i.e. Lycurgus, king of Thrace, who, contemning the rites of Bacchus, was, according to the Poets, bound by him and cast down a precipice, by which his brains were dashed out. Others say that he was shut into a den, and so starved to death ; here it is said that he was bound to a rock ; but the truth is, that, seeing his subjects commit many irregularities, through wine, he caused all the vines to be rooted up ; whence they fabulized, that, being turned into madness by Bacchus, he cut off his own legs with a pruning-hook. The Poet doth not compare Danae and Lycurgus to Antigone in their crimes but in their sufferings. * The fire of Bacchus.] The ancients supposed Bacchus al- ways among the fire, to denote the strong effects of wine. There ANTIGONE. 20.9 Strophe II. ^ The shores of Bosphoms, near the Cyanean rocks, and divided sea, and "" Thracian Salmydes- sus, and neighbouring Mars, beheld the cruel wound given to the two sons of Phineus, inhumanly blinded by his fierce wife, in the wretched orbs of their eyes, not cut with swords, but with her bloody hands and the points of bodkins. Antistrophe II. The WTetches dying deplored the sad sufferings of their mother unhappily born ; she was a descen- dant of noble Erechtheus brought up in distant caves among her father's storms, daughter of Boreas, equal to a horse in swiftness on the high mountains, and daughter of the gods, but the Fates overtook her. was a festival kept in honour to him, at Pellene, in Achaia, by the name of Bacchus, ^a|Mj^, Bacchus, the torch-bearer, and the festival was called Xa//9r]»)f ^a h^v. This solemnity was in the night, and the worshippers went to the temple of Bacchus with torches in their hands. ^ The shores of Bosphorus, near.~\ The Cyaueae were two islands, or rather rocks, near the Thracian Bosphorus, and divided the sea, hence, h^viJi-n ^a.'Kacraa,. ^ Thracian Salmydessus.'] A river of the Thracians, near which was a Temple of Mars, wbence a.[x^7r\QKi<; ''A^nq, neighbour- ing Mars. The sense is, all these places beheld the wound, or near these places the wound was given to the two brothers Plexippus and Pandion, by Cleopatra : or, rather, by Phineus to his own two sons. The story is as follows : Boreas married Orithyia, daughter of Erechtheus, King of Athens, by whom he had Zetes, Calais, and Cleopatra ; the last of these Phineus mar- ried, by whom he had Plexippus and Pandion, according to others, Gerumbas and Spondus. After her he married Ideae, daughter of Dardanus, according to others, Idothaea, sister of Cadmus, who conspired against and murdered the sous of Cleopa- tra. Others say that, while Cleopatra was alive, he married Idaea, at which tlie former, enraged, blinded her own children. But most agree that Phineus, through the false accusation of their step mother, blinded his children by his former wife, for whicli himself was blinded by Jove^ and tormented by the Harpies. P 310 ANTIGONE. ACT IV. SCENE I. Tiresias led hy a Boy, Creon, Chorus. Th\ *^ Princes of Thebes, we come the common way two seeing by one, for blind men go the same way with a leader. Cre. What news is this thou bringest 1 Tir, I will tell thee, and do thou listen to the prophet. Cre. Did I ever before oppose your will ? Tir. Therefore rightly do you rule this city. Cre. I must own your assistance. Tir. Be wise then now in the very precipice of fate. Cre. What is it? How I dread your words? Tir. You shall know when you hear the signs of my art. ^ Sitting in my ancient hallowed seat of divination, where all kinds of birds flocked to me, I heard an unknown voice of birds crying with an ill fury, unintei-pretable, and tearing one another with bloody claws : I knew it, for the noise of their wings was not uncertain. Presently, fearing, I en- deavoured to offer sacrifices on the flaming altars, but the fire shone not from the sacrifices, but in the ashes the flame smothered, a cloud of smoke arose, the galls were cast up and spread abroad, the ** Princes of Thebes.] The Scholiast observes here, that not only kings, but likewise honourable persons and wealthy citizens, were called avaxjg? or Koi^uvi^m. The reason of which is to be seen in our notes upon Oedipus Tyrannus, Act iv. note **. * Sitting in my ancient hallowed seat^ The Grecian Augurs had a place appointed on purpose for them, called by the general name of Sano? and ^wxo?, a seat, but more properly Ojwvtr^fjoir, and had power to assemble the birds from all places when they had occasion to use them. The Scholiast upon Euripides says, they used to carry with them a writing table, in which they wrote the names and flights of the birds, with other things belonging thereto, lest any circumstance should slip out of their memory. ANTIGONE. 211 ^ thighs lay spread without their wonted fat. These things I learned from the boy, that the ^ signs of certain auguries were lost ; for he is a guide to me, and I to others. These things the city suffers for your sentence ; for our altars and our hearths are defiled, being quite full of the food of birds and dogs that feed on the unhappy son of Oedipus, who was slain, nor did the gods yet receive our suppli- cations or flame of the thighs, nor the bird sound lucky cries, when he had fed on the fat of human blood. Consider these things, son ; it is common to all men to offend ; but after he hath offended he is no inconsiderate or unhappy man, who, having ^ The thighs lay spread without their wonted fat.] The par- ticular parts of the sacrifice which belonged to the gods were called iW.>3^ot, and these they covered with fat, called in Greek «rf//,£A»3, or Kvia-a-'n, to the end they might consume all together in a flame ; for they concluded that their sacrifice was not accepted by the gods unless all was burnt. Thus we find them doing in Homer, llliad. a. v. 459. The jxri^o) were appropriated to the gods, because says Eustathius, TO ^^vo-iIsXbTv ToTq C^uoiq Etf ^a^sciv re xat yiviaiv. 5 The signs of certain auguries were lost.] Tiresias finding that the omens given by the birds were unfortunate, tries another way of divination, called Uv^Q^xv\i\xf i. e. divination by fire, but with as little success, for still the signs appeared to portend impending mischief. For (as Dr. Potter tells us) the good signs were such as these, if the flames immediately took hold of, and consumed the victim, seizing at once all the parts of it ; on which account they usually prepared ra (p^vyxva,, dry sticks, which would easily take fire. Also if the flame was bright and pure, and without noise and smoke; if the sparks tended upward in the form of a pyramid ; if the fire went not out till all was reduced to ashes : contrary signs were, when it was kindled with difficulty, when the flame was divided, when it did not immediately spread itself over all the parts of the victim, but crept along, consumed by little and little; when instead of ascending in a straight line it whirled round, turned sideways or downwards, was black, cast forth smoke, &c. P 2 212 ANTIGONE. fallen into evils, seeks a remedy, nor is unmoved ; for obstinacy is owing to folly: but give place to the dead, nor vent your rage against a dead man. What courage is it to kill a man already killed? I in benevolence to thee advise, for 'tis a most de- lightful thing to learn of him w^ho talks w^ell, if hei advises w^hat is advantageous. Cre. Old man, I know I am the scope of all your aims, for even the prophets are coiTupted against me by this family ; long have they borne me ill, and rated my person at no value. But make what gains of them you will; be bribed by ^ Sardine amber and Indian gold, but you shall never lay him in his tomb, nor if the eagles snatch and carry him to the throne of Jove: nor I, as fearing that pollution, will permit to bury him, for I know well that no man can pollute the gods ; but the gravest of men fall many and great falls, when they speak grace- fully many base speeches for the sake of gain. Ti7\ But doth any man know or think this? Cre. What is this you speak of, which all men know ? Tir. How much is pmdence the best of all riches ? Cre, And how much is to be unwise the worst of evils? Tir. And indeed thou art infected with that dis- temper. Cre. I will not contradict a prophet. Tir. But you do, in saying that I prophecy falsely. Cre. All the kindred of the prophets are lovers of gold. Tir. That is the manner of kings, they love filthy lucre. ^ Sardine amber.] Gr. 'Eu^^em ^XekI^ov. Sardis is a rich country of Lydia, where Croesus once reigned ; it is near Pactolus, and abounded with precious metal, called electrum, a mixture of gold and silver, which they drew out of the mines with winged ants. ANTIGONE. 213 Cre. But do you know what you say when you name kings ? Tir. I know, for through me you have preserved this city. Cre. You are a wise prophet, but love to act unjustly. Tir. You command me to speak things not to be mentioned. Ore. Mention what you will, so you do not speak for gain. Tir. So I seem to do as to your part. Cre. But you shall not make your gains of me, I am not of so easy a temper. Tir. But know well there shall not be finished many courses of the sun, ere yourself shall expiate those that are dead with one of your own sons, for which you have cast one down, and dishonourably shut her alive into a tomb. Thou hast here ' a body kept * A body, kept from the infernal gods, profaned.] This saying is founded upon a superstition of the ancients, who supposed that the manes of those who lay unburied wandered upon the earth one hundred years, as appears from Virgil, ^Eneid. vi. v. 325. Hcec omnis quam ceinis, inops, inhumataque turba est : Portitor ille Charon : hi, quos vehit unda, sepulti. JSec ripas datur horrendas, nee rauca Jiuenta Transportare prius, qudm sedibus ossa quierunt. Centum errant annos, volitantque hcBC littora circum : Tum demum admissi stagna exoptata revisunt. Alex, ab Alex, tells us, that at Tarentum, a town in Magna Grai- cia, there were Ludi Seculares, games kept every hundred years, to appease the manes, according to a precept in the Sibylline books : and farther adds, that it was reckoned a lawful sepulture, which was done by sprinkling dust three times on the body, with some prayers to the infernal gods. It was not therefore without reason that Tiresias, who was of this persuasion, should charge Creou with keeping the manes of Polynices from his desired Elysium and conversation with the infernal spirits. Virgil, ^Eneid vi. v. 365. Palinurus lying unburied is supposed to speak thus to iEneas : Eripe me his, invicte, mails ; aiit tu mihi terram Jnjice : namque pates. 214 ANTIGONE. from the infernal gods, prophaned, nor celebrated with funeral obsequies, which neither concerns you nor the gods above. But these actions are the effects of your violence, of which the late revengers lie concealed below, and the furies, daughters of the gods, so that your crimes will meet with their deser- ved punishment. Consider, if corrupted by gold I speak these things ; for there will appear in a little time tribulations, lamentations of husbands and wives in your palace, all hostile cities rising tumultu- ously, Avhich the dogs have polluted with torn limbs, or beasts or winged fowls, bearing filthy odours to the altars of their city. And these strong darts have I as an archer launched out against thy angry heart, whose violence you shall not escape. Thou, O boy, lead me home, that he may exercise his rage on younger people ; know how to keep a stiller tongue, and ever be of a better mind than now he is. [Tiresias is led off. ACT IV. SCENE II. Chorus, Creon. Clio. O king, he is gone, after having prophesied sad things ; for I know that since the time that I from black hair was covered with white, he never propiiesied a falsehood to the city. Cre. I know it myself, and am disturbed in mind. It is sad to submit, and if I oppose, I am in danger to suffer for it. Cho. O Creon, good counsel now is necessary. Cre. Tell me what is convenient to be done, and I shall obey. For this reason the greatest of all imprecations was, that a person might a,roc,(po<; IxTrWIstv x^°^°^» *• ^' ^^^ unburied on the earth. ANTIGONE. 215 Cho, Go and set free the girl from the covered vault, and honour the dead with a sepulchre. Cre. Is this what you approve of? Do you think fit I comply ? Cho. As soon as possible, for the swift furies of the gods pursue the ill-minded. Cre. Woe is me ! I scarce can quit my resolution, yet I will, for there is no resistance against necessity. Cho. Do it yourself, command not others. Cre. I go as swift as I can ; but you, servants, who are present and absent, taking axes in your hands, go unto the tomb's top ; but I (for my mind is altered) bound her myself, and will set her free : for I fear lest it should be best, while we live, to preserve the established laws. Strophe I. Cho. Bacchus, the glory of Cadmean Semele, and son of thundering Jove, who rulest famous Italy, and presidest over the ^ Eleusinian mysteries, com- mon to all, in the fields of Ceres ; Bacchus, who in- habitest Thebes, the metropolis of the Bacchanals, by the flowing streams of Ismenus, and the seed of the fierce dragon. Antistrophe I. ^To thee sacrifices are performed on the rock Parnassus, where the "" Corycian nymphs of Bacchus walk, and the fountain of Castalia flows : the banks ^ Eleusinian mysteries common to all.] Because people assem- bled from all countries to attend at the mysteries of Ceres in Eleusis. * To thee sacrifices, S^c] Literally it is, thee on the double headed rock the splendid flame beheld ; for there were two tops of Parnassus ; and one, called Nyssa, was sacred to Bacchus. " Corycian nymphs.] The muses so called, from Corycium, a cave at the top of mount Corycus, in Cilicia, dedicated to the muses: there was also another Corycium at the foot of Parnassus; whence they are called Parnassides, or Coryciae Nymphae. 216 ANTIGONE. of ivy of the " mountains of Nyssa, ° and green forest, abounding with grapes, celebrate thee with sweet melodious songs, the governor of the Theban city. Strophe II. Which thou honourest above all the cities with thy mother Semele, who was struck with thunder ; and now, as the whole city labours under a violent disease, come to our assistance, upon famous Par- nassus, or the p sonorous shore, Antistrophe II. Thou ''leader of the Bacchanals, who sparkling- torches bearest, and ' overseer of nightly clamours, son of Jove, appear with 'your Naxian raging girls, who, raging by you all night in choirs, celebrate you, the governor lacchus. " Mountains of Nt/ssa.] There was a city in Ethiopia called Nyssa, near which was a mountain where Bacchus was worshipped; there were also several other Nyssas. ° And green forest.] Gr. ;)(j^&;^a t' a«3a, green bank. In both Euboea and Parnassus there were vines which in the morning pro- duced fresh bunches of grapes, at noon they grew bitter, and in the evening they were fit to be gathered. Either of them may be here understood. ** Sonorous shore.] By reason of the waves dashing against it ; the Boeotian or Sicilian shores. "J Thou leader, Sfc] Literally, leader of the fire-blowing-stars. He was worshipped by the name of iEtherius and Nuctor, but we are more justly to understand here hysxv^ 'mviovluv dre^uv, the lamps which the raging women carried in the night, when they officiated in the sacred rites of Bacchus. ^ Overseer of nightly clamours.] i. e. Which the raging women made in tliese rites. ' Naxian raging girls,] Naxos, or Naxia, was an island in the ^gean sea, where Bacchus was worshipped, called Strongyle, and afterwards Dia: there was said to have been a fountain in it which ran wine. ANTIGONE. 217 ACT V. SCENE I. Messenger, Chorus. Mess, Ye citizens of Thebes, the seat of Amphion, 1 see not what kind of human life I can praise or blame : ^ fortune raises up and throws down, makes one fortunate, and another miserable : there is no prophet skilled in foretelling those things which will happen to m^n. Creon was happy as once it seem- ed to me ; he having preserved this Cadmean land from enemies, and possessing the whole government thereof, governed it flourishing, with a happy off- spring. Now all is past ; for, when men lose their pleasure, I reckon not that such do live, but count them breathing dead carcasses : be rich if thou w ilt at home, and possess a government; but, if joy be absent from all this, all other things the world can afford are vain, as clouds of smoak in comparison of real felicity. ^ Fortune raises up.'\ Hor. lib. i. od. 35. O Diva, gratum quce regis Antium, PrcBsens vel imo tollere de gradu Mortale Corpus, vel superhos Vert ere funeribus triumphos. The messenger here tells the misfortune of Creon's house, as an iustance of this truth. The ancients supposed Fortune to be a goddess, and that she presided over all human affairs; therefore they built her temples, and persons of all ranks and stations pray- ed to her for her favour. See in Pind. Olymp. od. xii. SJIei^a rv^ccy tU ya,^ iv 'rrovla Kv^e^vuvroci Soai voisq, O Fortune, the preserver of mankind, the nimble ships in the sea are governed by thee; in the earth likewise success of war and councils on thee depends. She had in particular a famous temple at Antium, a sea-port town of Latiuni, and metropolis of the Volsci. But with more justice and piety the Psalmist ascribes this power to the most High, which they thought belonged to her, who is a name and nothing else. Psalm Ixxv, 218 ANTIGONE. Cho. But what misfortune of the kings is this you come to relate? Mess. They are dead, but those that live are the cause of their death. Cho. Who is dead? Who is slain? Speak, mes- senger. Mess. Haemon is dead; slain with his own hand. Cho, " By his father's or his own hand ? Mess. Himself fell by himself, angry with his father for the death of Antigone. Cho. O prophet, how truly didst thou foretel this? Mess. These things being so, other evils are cer- tainly resolved on. Cho. I see the miserable Eurydice, and wife of Creon, coming out of the palace ; or having heard something of the youth, or by accident she is here. ACT V. SCENE II. Eurydice^ Messenger, Chorus. Eur. Good citizens, I heard a discourse going out to offer my prayers and supplications to Pallas, and opening the bars of the stubborn gates, a voice of some domestic evil reached my ears : I fell down trembling among my maids, and was amazed; but whatsoever was the discourse, speak it again, for, not unexperienced in evils, I will hear you. Mess. I will tell you, dear madam, since I am here, nor will omit the smallest circumstance of truth. For why should I sooth you up with those " By his father's or his own hand.] The Scholiast starts thi* question, why should the Chorus ask who killed Haemon, since, in the former words, it is said avrox^iq, with his own hand ; and thus he solves it, because the Chorus snatched the former words so quick, that they did not hear the latter. ANTIGONE. 219 tales, wherein at last I shall appear a liar ; for the tmth is ever right. I followed your husband to the field, where lay the miserable body of Polynices torn to pieces by dogs, (and beseeching the goddess of the Ways, "" Proserpine, kindly to restrain her rage, washing in sacred water what was left of the body with oTeen bousrhs, we burnt it, and raised a high tomb of earth that was hard by. Again we descend to the maid's low prison, Pluto's nuptial chamber ; one hears a voice of mournings near the death-bed, unadorned with funeral pomp, and coming, signifies it to Creon, our master ; and, as he approached, he hears a moumfLd voice, then lament- ing he utters sad speeches. O me a wretch! am I a prophet? Do I go the most unfortunate of all ways that ever I went ? the voice of my child now strikes my ear. But, servants, go quickly near, and standing by the tomb, look through that open crack at the cave's mouth ; or I hear the voice of Haemon, or am deceived by the gods. We obey om* master s commands, and see Antigone, in the lower end of the tomb, hanging by the neck, entangled in a snare made of her girdle of fine linen, and Haemon fallen doAATi and embracing her about the middle, lament- ing the ruin of his bed, the deed of his father, and the cursed stony cave. When he beheld him, sadly lamenting, he goes to him, and, calling with a loud voice, thus speaks to him. Thou wretch, what hast thou done? What hast thou in thy mind? In what calamity art thou fallen? Come hither, humbly I beseech you. The youth beholding him, with dis- mal eyes, answered nothing ; but, spitting in his face, (kaws his two-edged sword, but ^ missed his intend- ' Proserpine.'] The same with Hecate, or the Moon, and Diana. y Missed his intended bloiv.] This action of Haemon is blamed by Aristotle, as being cruel without necessity, and it is also with- out passion ; but, as Mr. Dacier remarks, as it is but a small cir- 220 ANTIGONE, ed blow, his father escaping by flight. Then the wretch being angry with himself, that he was cross- ed, thrust the sword into the middle of his side; yet in his senses he embraced the tender arm of the vir- gin, and, breathing, sends out a swift shower of blood upon his pale cheek. Dead he lies by her dead: the wretched youth consummates his mar- riage in the chambers of death, proving, by his own example, how much rashness is the greatest evil among men. [Exit Eurydice. cumstance of an episode, and doth not enter the composition of the subject, it is less faulty. However these imperfect actions may seem in an epic poem, they are by no means to be admitted in tragedy. Aristotle hath wrote his whole 15 cap. to direct poets how they ought to conduct themselves in managing those incidents which cause the terrible and the pitiful ; of which I shall give the reader a short abridgement. We may represent actions, says he, which are done by those who act with an entire knowledge, as Euripides represented Medea killing her children. Or the actions of those who do not know the cruelty of their crimes, but when they are done, come to know the relation or friendship which was between them. Or of a person that goes ignorantly to commit a very great crime, and then recollects himself before he puts it in execution. These three ways are only proper for tragedy. The fourth is that which Aristotle condemns in the action of Haemon as the worst of all, viz. when any person goes to commit a crime volun- tarily and willingly, and yet does not execute it; for, besides its being horrible, it is no way tragical. The most vicious next is the first, because it is too horrible. The second is, without contra- diction, better than the first and the last, for it is not cruel be- cause of the ignorance of him who commits it, yet the remem- brance is very pathetic. The last is preferable to all the others, for it is not at all cruel, and answers the desire of the spectators. Whence it is plain, that neither this action of Haemon, which is prevented by his father's flight; Achilles drawing his sword to slay Agamemhon, and pre- vented by Minerva ; ^neas to kill Helena, and prevented by Venus ; however suitable they may be for an epic poem, are very unfit for tragedy. ANTIGONE. 221 ACT V. SCENE III. Chorus, Messenger. Cho. What think you by this, the woman depart- ed before she spoke good or bad. Mess, I stood amazed at it, but am supported with hopes, that she, hearing of the death of her son, will not publicly shew her grief, but that, beneath her palace roof, with her maids, she will appoint a do- mestic mourning ; for she is not so weak in her judg- ment as to err in this matter. Cho. I know not, but this excessive silence to me seems sad, though much clamour indeed is vain. Mess. But we shall know when we go into the palace whether she conceal any desperate unlawful design in her angry mind, for well thou sayest, ex- cessive silence is grievous. Cho. But the king himself comes, having in his arms the dead body, for which himself is only to be blamed. ACT V. SCENE IV. Creon, bearing his sons body in his arms. Chorus, Servant, Messenger. Cre. Alas, the mighty faults of evil minds, great and mortal as you see, kindred killers, and killed by their kindred ! Woe is me, my unhappy counsels ! O youth of early fate ; thou art dead and gone, by my ill devices, and not thine. Cho. Woe is me! how late dost thou seem to prove the punishment of justice? Cre. Woe is me ! with sorrow I know it, for now on my head the goddess of revenge laying that 222 ANTIGONE. weight, hath oppressed me, and in ill ways hath tor- tured me. Woe is me ! depriving me of my wonted joy. O the sad sorrows of men. Serv. O my lord, so it is with thee ; these are thy sufferings, thy son thou bearest in thy arms, and other evils in the palace thou art come to view. Cre. What other great evil is that? Serv. Your queen is dead, the unhappy mother of this dead youth, with fresh wounds. Cre. Vile port of death, why dost thou destiT)y me ? thou hast caused me to sutler unutterable griefs. What dost thou say ? Cho. Woe! and woe! again, thou hast ruined an unhappy man. Cre. What sayest thou, man? thou speakest some new speech to me. Woe ! woe ! to me, sayest thou my wife's body lies dead for the death of Haemon ? Serv. She may be seen, nor is she still in the chambers. Cre. Woe is me a wretch ! I see another second evil. What, O what other fate still waits me? I have my son in my arms, and see another dead body there. O miserable mother ! O son ! Cho. She with a sharp sword, near the altar, slew herself, mourning ^ the honourable death of Mega- reus, her former son, then of this, and last of all mourning your evil practices, as your son's mur- derer. Cre. Woe ! woe ! I am dead with fear ; why doth not some one give me a mortal wound with a two- * The honourable death of Megarevs.] By Megareus may be understood either a former husband which Eurydice had or a former son which was named first Megareus; but afterwards he slew himself to save the city, and thence was called Menoeceus. According to the former sense, the translation will be thus.: she mourned that she married Megareus, being so unfortunate in the loss of him, then her marriage with Creon. But my translation is according to the other sense, which I take to be the best. ANTIGONE. 223 edged sword ? O wretch, I am quite immersed in sorrow. Mess. Being accounted the cause of both their deaths, by her who lies here dead. Cre. After what manner did she kill herself? Mess. By striking herself to the heart with her own hand, after she perceived the lamentable fate of her son. Cre. Woe is me ! these are not chargeable on any else, the cause is only ours. Miserable wretch, I killed you, I speak the truth. O servant, lead me quickly hence, who am no more. Cho. You advise what is gainful, if there be gain in evils ; for the smallest of the greatest evils are the best. Ore. Let my last day appear my last day, which will put an end to my misfortunes ; let it come, oh ! that I may not see another day. Mess. Those things are to come, something pre- sent must be done ; those things should be our care which deserve it. Cre. But I have prayed for what I desire. Mess. Pray for nothing, for no man hath freedom from destined calamity. Cre. Bear me hence a useless wretch, who have killed thee unwillingly, my child ; nor know I where to look, or where to betake myself; for my misera- ble fate oppresses me every way. Cho. ^ To be wise is much the greatest happiness ; it is not good to dishonour religion ; proud words, which often have been fatal to those who speak them, teach men to be wise in their old age. * To be wise.] These words contain the exode, or moral, of the piece. See the notes on the Oed. Tyr. Act V. Scene the last. t THE TRAGEDY OF OEDIPUS COLONEUS mvditnati^ ^evmnae. Oedipus, after he had pulled out his eyes and was expelled from Thebes. An Athenian, who first meets with and speaks to Oedipus and Antigone, Creon, Brother and Uncle to Oedipus. PoLYNiCES, Son of Oedipus. Theseus, King of Athens. A Messenger. Chorus of ancient Men of Athens. women. Antigone and Ismene. mute persons. Guards and Attendants on Creon and Theseus, and one Attendant of Ismene. SCENE — A Forest near the Temple of the venerable Goddesses, Q OEDIPUS COLONEUS The Argument. — This Oedipus is the same with him upon whom the other Tragedy of Sophocles of that title is composed, but distinguished by the epithet of Coloneus ; because, after his expulsion out of Thebes, he comes, being led by his daughter, An- tigone, into Attic Greece, to a hill where was a temple and grove sacred to the Furies, (it was called likewise the Hill of Horses, because Neptune, the first creator of horses, called, therefore, Equestris, or Rider, and Prometheus, had there a temple,) where he relates all his misfortunes ; taking that occasion from Creon's coming, in order to bring him back to Thebes, there having been an Oracle that wheresoever he died, and his sepulchre lay, the people of that country should be victorious over the other in the war between the Thebans and Athenians ; and, going to a place called the Brazen Way, near a cavity where Pluto is feigned to have snatched Proserpine to his gloomy dominions, he was taken away in a wonderful manner. This Tragedy was composed by Sophocles, in his old age, to gratify both his own countrymen, the Colonites, and the Anthenians. How well it answered his ends, the following story, related by Dr. Potter, is a sufficient proof, Sophocles, being accused by Jophon and his other sons, before the Phratores, of neglecting his affairs, through dotage, read to them this Tragedy, which he had then lately composed, and asked them if they thought a dotard could be capable of making such a Tragedy, whereupon he was immediately acquitted. ACT I. SCENE I. Oedipus, and Antigone leading him. Oed. Antigone, daughter of a blind old man, to what places are we come, or what city ? ^ Who now will relieve ^Yandering Oedipus ? Or with small gifts relieve his pressing wants ? I sue to none but for a slender alms ; and though w hat I receive be less than little, yet it sufficeth me ; for sufferings, old age, and, a third thing, nobleness of mind, teach me to be content. But, O daughter, if thou seest any ^ profane seat, or any sacred to the gods, place me there, that we may inquire where we are ; for it is fit that, being strangers, we should learn of the citizens what is convenient to be done. ^Who now will receive ivandering.^ Gr. tk tov 'jrXctvvn'nv 'Oi^i-zs-sv ^i^tlcti. I have translated the word rU here interrogatively, but it may likewise be understood to supply the place of the article ^', and to agree with the preceding word 'jro'hiv, and then the transla- tion will be, which will receive, &c. without an interrogation ; yet the former sense is most usual among authors. ^ Profane seat.'\ Gr. •K^oq ^s^r^hoh^. This word is variously un- derstood, ^i&n'Koq ro'jroq is taken sometimes for the body of the temple, in opposition to the oi^vlov, beyond which it was not un- lawful for any one to enter but the priest. So ^b$y)Xo(; avv^ signi- fies a lay-man, one who is not initiated into holy orders, in oppo- sition to le^ey?, a priest. Thus Horace, Carm. lib. iii. od. 1. Odi profanum viilgus, et arceo. Favete Unguis, carmina non pritis Audita, musarwm sacerdos. Sometimes it is the same with ^ix^oq, or cixd^u^oq, a polluted or unclean person. Thus all who were d^s^rtXoi, or unpolluted, were permitted to pass within or beyond the Tre^ipfavryj^ion, a vessel which stood at the temple door, and contained the holy water, but the &i^Yi\oi were not. Thus Euripides. 'Ov ya,^ ^z^k; ^i^riXov aTrlso-^ai ^ofjLuVf and ^v^aq y iv^l^Bcr^t (SsCnAot ; so here &i0r)Xoq totqc, signifies a place free for any to be in. 228 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Ant, O miserable father, Oedipus, the city, as well as I can conjecture at this distance, is sur- rounded by towers ; here seems to be a sacred place, abounding with laurel, olive trees, and vines, '^ many nightingales sing in it. Here ease thy wearied limbs on this unpolished rock, for thou hast come a great way for an old man. Oed. Set me down now, and guard a blind man. Ant. I am not to learn that after so long ex- perience. Oed. Canst thou tell me where we are placed ? Ant. Near Athens, I know ; but I know not this particular place, for every traveller told me that this was Attica. But shall I go and learn what place this is? Oed. Yes, child, if it be habitable. Ant. It is inhabited, but I believe there is no need, for I see a man near us. Oed. Coming hither in haste ? Ant. Even just here, and to him you may say what is convenient for you to speak, for the man is here. ACT L SCENE II. Oedipus, Stranger, Antigone. Oed. O, stranger, I hear from her who sees for me, and for herself, that thou art come to me a lucky spy, to speak what we are uncertain of. Stran. Before you inquire more, come out of this seat, for you possess a place which is not lawful to tread. Oed. What place is this? What god is it sacred to? ^ Many nightingales sing in it.] This passage is exceeding beautiful in the original. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 229 Stran. It is not to be touched or inhabited, '^ for the venerable goddesses possess it, daughters of the earth and darkness. Oed, Who ? For I desire to know their sacred names. Stran. The people who inhabit here call them the Eumenides, who see all things; but others are pleased to call them ^ by other names. Oed. But may they receive their suppliant with mercy, that I may not return out of this land more. Stran. What prayer is that thou hast addressed to the goddesses ? Oed. One which declares all my miseries. Stran. But I have not confidence to be longer absent from the city ere I declare what is to be done. I Oed. Now, by the gods, stranger, do not slight me, though I am such a wanderer, but resolve my doubts. Stran. Command me, for I will not slight thee. Oed. What, therefore, is the place to which we are come ? \ Stra7i. As far as my knowledge can inform thee, thou shalt know all things. This whole place is sacred, reverend Neptune presides over it, and the ^ For the venerable goddesses.] Phylarchus says they were two, and had each a statue at Athens : Polemon three, viz. Alecto, I Megaera, and Tisiphone. They were, according to Sophocles, i the daughters of the earth and darkness ; but to others of Nox and Acheron. Euphorion calls them the daughters of Phorcus or Phorcon, a sea-monster, son ofPontus and Terra. j ' * Bi/ other names.] As Iprnve;, or o-biavoi.) ^eoc). The Sicyonians, \ Athenians, and others, called them Ev[ji,£vihq, i. e. favourable or propitious ; out of an opinion that their true names were unlucky omens : or, by an Antiphrasis, being quite contrary to favourable; for they are said to be the revengers of impiety, and to have snakes knit with their hair, who, by their biting, express the stings j of consQience which accompany all wicked actions. Yet Philemon, 1 a comic poet, will have it, that the a-ifAvct), or g/x{po^ot $£»*, were different from the Evf^tvi^t<;. 230 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. fire-bearing god, ^ Prometheus, the Titan ; that \ place of the earth thou treadest upon is called the i ^ Brazen Way, the defence of Athens ; and the i neighbouring villages pray that this verdant hill may j be their defence, and thence they have all their com- mon names of Colonites. This is the state of the case, not more known by reports than by certain knowledge. Oed. Doth any one inhabit these places ? Stran. Yes, and they are named from the god. Oed. Doth any govern them ; or is the command in the multitude ? Stran. These countries round the city are govern- ed by the king. Oed. But who is it whose voice and power com- mands ? Stran. He is called Theseus, son of the former iEgeus. Oed. And would not any messenger go from you to him? Stran. To say what? To desire him to come hither ? Oed. That, affording a little, he may gain much. Stran. What help can we expect from a man who cannot see ? Oed. Whatsoever we shall say shall be as plain as if we saw. ^ Prometheus, the Titan.'] He is worshipped at Athens, as is Vulcan likewise ; where, in the academy, Prometheus being the elder, is placed on the right hand, holding a sceptre, and Vulcan on the left. He is called Titan by way of comparison, because, without permission from Jupiter, he stole fire from heaven, and gave it to men, for which he suffered the same punishment with the Titans, brother- sons of Saturn, viz. he was fixed under Mount Caucasus, and a vulture always was knawing on his liver. s The Brazen Way.] A place so called in the temple ; it was said there was a passage that way to Hades. It takes that epithet from the brazen mines with which the hill abounded, where the grove and temple stood. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 231 Iftran. Hear then my proposal : mistake me not, stranger ; since thou art noble as thou seemest to me, beyond thy fortune, remain there where thou art, until I go and tell these things to my neighbours, who are here, and not to the citizens, for they will judge whether it be fit you stay or return again. ACT I. SCENE III. Oedipus, Antigone. Oed. O daughter, is not the stranger gone from us ? Ant. He is gone, father, so that every thing is in quiet, and you may speak as being near me alone. Oed. O venerable Furies, since I now first have sat upon this earth be not to me and Apollo unkind, who, after having pronounced concerning me many unfortunate oracles, said, that here should be my rest after many tedious years, coming to the borders of this country, where I might receive a seat, and reception from the venerable goddesses, and ^ there, ^ There, inhabiting, lay down.] The passage which the old Scholiast cites, from Lysimachus, seems to contradict Sophocles's fiction of Oedipus's dying in Attica, which is as follows : When the friends of Oedipus would have buried him in Thebes, they were hindered by the Thebans, because of the plague inflicted on them upon his account : whereupon they took his body, and bu- ried it, atCeus, in Boeotia; but, some misfortunes happening to the inhabitants, they judged that the body of Oedipus lying there was the occasion of them ; whereupon they ordered his friends to take away the body, which they did, and privately buried it in the temple of Ceres, in Eteonus ; but the inhabitants thereabouts, hearing of it, consulted their God, whether to cast him out thence or not: his answer was, that they should not stir him, be- ing a suppliant of the goddess. The temple is called from him Oedipodium. But there is no truth in it neither, if we may believe Horner^ who speaks of his dying at Thebes. II. -vj/. "O? Troll 0J7|3a? riXQt ^e^sttotoij OJ^twodao E? taOov. 232 OEDIPUS CULONEUS. inhabiting, lay down my miserable life, 'to those who receive me gain, but loss to those who sent me hither, who drove me out. He likewise foretold, that signs would appear to me of these things, or earthquake, or thunder, or lightning of Jove : and now I know, that doubtless some faithful augury from you hath led me this way into this forest, for it cannot be that in my travels I should meet with you first by accident, (I being sober ^ and you averse to wine,) or sit upon this venerable and unpolished seat. Wherefore, O goddesses, according to the answers of Apollo, grant me here an end and catas- trophe of my life ; unless I seem to have had some- thing too small trouble, although always oppressed by the greatest evils incident to mankind. Come, therefore, O sweet children of old darkness ; come, who from most mighty Pallas art called, O Athens, the most honourable of cities ; pity this miserable image of Oedipus, for this is not the ancient body. Ant. Be silent, for hither come some ancient men as viewers of your seat. ^ To those who receive me gain, but loss.] The Scholiast thinks the Athenians and Thebans were then at strife, and that the poet says this to gratify the former. ^ And you averse to wine.] Gr. vvicpuv doUoK;, sober to you sober, so called because their sacrifices consisted of water. And Polenion says, that the Athenians sacrificed sober sacrifices or libations likewise to Memory, the Muses, the Morning, the Sun, Moon, Nymphs, Urania Venus. Crates says, likewise, that all wood, except that of the vine, was called vr)(poiXia, ^vXa,. But Phi- lochorus, on the other hand, says, that thyme was the only wood which was so called, and the first that was ever used for burnt offerings, l|U9rt;§«? ^vaiotq, and that therefore it takes its name of thyme, from ^vu, to sacrifice. The learned Doctor Potter is of opinion, that there was a particular reason why each of these be- fore-mentioned deities were honoured with such oblations : first, the Eumenides, because the divine justice ought always to be vigi- lant. Secondly, the Sun, because he by whom all things are en- compaaicd and held together, ought to be temperate. Thirdly, Bacchus, that men might not always be accustomed to strong and unmixed wines, &c. See Archaeol. Graec. vol. i. p. 212. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 233 Oed. I will be silent, and thou lead me out of the way and hide me in the forest, that I may hear what they will say, for by hearing we may learn what to do. ACT I. SCENE IV. They withdraw farther into the Forest, and enter the Chorus of ancient Men of Athens. Cho. * See, but who is he? Where doth he hide? Where is the wandering exile, ™ the most insatiable of all men? search him: look, see, call every where for this wanderer, this old wanderer ; he is no inha- bitant, otherwise he would never have come to this inaccessible forest of the invincible goddesses, whom we tremble to mention " and pass by without speech ' SeCy but who is he? where, &fc.^, The Chorus hearing of Oedipus's placing himself in that forbidden place, first comes in and expostulates in the following manner. See, but who is he?- Where doth he hide ? Where is the wandering exile, &c. Although the Chorus entereth here, yet this is not the first song of the Chorus, or the Parodos, but they speak here without sing- ing: it would indeed have been very unnatural, had the Chorus here entered singing, before they were instructed in the action, in which they were to be concerned. But after Oedipus had placed himself in the temple and grove of the Eumenides, and given occa- sion to the assembling of the Chorus, and they had informed both themselves and the audience in the nature of the action, they then begin the Parodos, or first song, and aot their part as a Chorus, who before only joined in speaking the prologue, that is, all that precedes the first song of the Chorus. This distinction is to be observed between the Parodos, or first song of the Chorus and its discourse in all the tragedies of the ancients; although, for want of having sufficiently examined this practice, the latter hath been taken for the former. The first song of the Chorus always closeth the first act, and in this tragedy begins at the words, 'Euiw^rs Isve rciah ^u^xq. And ends with vn^vi'i^uv a>toA«6o$. "" The most insatiable. ~\ i. e. Whom no other place could satisfy. ° And pass by without, <5f c] As persons in dread of some im- pending danger dare not speak or think of any thing but what is most pure and innocent. 234 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. or thought, but speaking words of lucky omen. And now it is said that some one is come without any re- verence to this hallowed place, whom I looking for through the whole forest cannot know where he is hid. Oed, Here I am ; I heard what you said. [Oedipus at a distance speaks. Clio. Alas, alas ! terrible to look on, and terrible to hear. Oed, I beseech you look not on me as an impious man. Cho. O Jupiter, the Defender, who is this old man? Oed, Governors of this land, not altogether one whom }'0u may judge happy for my former fortune, that is plain ; for otherwise I had not crept hither with other eyes than my own, nor, at this age, come hither on a small account. Cho, Alas, alas! for those blind eyes most un- happy you are, an unfortunate old man, as thou seemest; but thou shalt not charge on us those curses which attend this rashness ; thou goest where it is not lawful for thee to go. Come not on this herby silent grove, where a full cup of water mixed with wine is offered to the venerable goddesses. Take good care of this, unfortunate stranger, avoid it. Be gone, the long distance interposes. But dost thou hear, thou wretched wanderer, if thou givest any attention to my speech, go from these in- accessible places, and speak, where the same liberty is allowed to all ; but first curb thyself. Oed. Daughter, what can one think ? Ant, Father, it is necessary you think with the citizens, and willingly submit to them. Oed, Now take hold of me. Ant. I do hold thee. Oed. O stranger, let me not be hurt, since trusting to you I come forth. Cho. By no means, jione shall lead thee unwil- lingly from those seats. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 235 Oed. Still, therefore, still shall I advance. [Oedipus comes forward, led by Antigone, Clio. Advance more forward. Oed. Yet? Cho. Come forward, maid, for thou hearest. Ant. But follow, follow this way, father, with thy dark body, where I lead ; and, being a stranger, content yourself to know no other bounds of right and wrong than what are here prescribed. Oed. Do thou lead me now, child, that when we come, we may speak with piety, and likewise hear and not resist necessity. Clio. There, move not thy foot from that thresh- old which bounds the inaccessible way. Ant. Thus? Clio. Enough. Stand. [Comes forward. Oed. Shall I sit? Clio. Across on the top of the rock, bending for- ward a little. Ant. Father, this is my business, gently to direct each step you tread ; therefore commit your ancient body to my loving hand. [Placing him down. Oed. Woe is me, sad misfortune ! Clio. O wretch, since you are now easy, tell who are thy parents, and who art thou, who so miserably art led ? Oed. Strangers, I am a banished man; but do not Cho. Why dost thou refuse that, old man? Oed. Ask me not who I am, nor search, nor in- quire farther. Cho. What is that? Oed. Wretched race. Cho. Speak. Oed. Woe is me, daughter! what shall I say? Cho. Of what race art thou, stranger? speak, of what paternal descent ? Oed, Woe is me, my child ! what shall I suffer ? 236 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Ant, Speak, since thou art now at the last extre- mity. Oed. I will speak, for I cannot be secret. Cho. You delay long, but make haste. Oed, Know ye the son of Laius ? Cho. Woe is me ! Oed. Descendant of Labdacus. Cho. O Jupiter ! Oed. Unhappy Oedipus. Cho. Art thou he? Oed. Fear not what I say. Cho. Woe! woe! Oed. Unhappy I. Cho. Ah! ah! Oed. Daughter, what will be the event ? Ant, Get thee far hence out of this country ; but what can you answer to justify your breach of pro- mise ? Cho. Fatal punishment will fall on none for re- venging those injuries he hath suffered, and ° frauds are more justly recompensed by frauds than favours : but thou again return out of these places, and leave our land, lest you constrain our city to use some act of violence against you. Ant. P O reverend strangers, since you endure not my old blind father, having heard the report of his involuntary crimes, yet we beseech you pity me, a wretch, who supplicate for my father, who behold- ing your presence with awful eyes, as one sprang from your blood, pray that this miserable man may find reverence vdth you. We, wretches, rely on you as on a god. Go, grant this unhoped-for kindness, ° Frauds are more justly recompensed.] The Chorus finding out the truth, i. e. that he was a polluted person, think themselves not bound by their promise, in regard that he had deceived them. P O reverend strangers.] Here Antigone finding the despicable case they were in, bespeaks their compassion in very moving terms. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 237 I beseech you, if you have ought that is dear to you, care for your offspring, regard for your promise or your interest, or reverence to God. For there is none of all mankind who can escape when God misleads him into secret crimes. Cho. But know, daughter of Oedipus, we pity thee and him by reason of his calamity : but fearing from the gods we cannot speak other language than what we have spoke to you already. Oed. What advantage is there in glory or fame founded on false reports, when they say "^ Athens is the most pious city, and only city for protecting a stranger, and for helping him ? Do I experience this truth ? for, first having removed me from these seats, you expel me hence, fearing only my name : not this my person or my crimes, since my crimes are rather what I suffered than acted. If you must speak to what concerns my father and mother, on whose ac- count you fear me, which I know very well, how am I in nature bad, who suffering violence repaid it back? So that if with perfect knowledge I had done it, yet were I worthy of pardon ; but I through igno- rance fell into those misfortunes ; they who expelled me did it knowing what they did. Wherefore, strangers, I beseech you, by the gods, since you have moved me from my place, preserve me here, lest while yoLi seem to honour the gods you honour them not at all ; but you will see that they regard good men, and wicked too, and that no wicked man shall escape divine vengeance. Do not, therefore, by aiding in impious acts, dishonour happy Athens ; but as you have received me a suppliant, and as you have given me your promise, preserve me, defend me, nor, seeing my wretched head, dishonour me. ^ Athens is the most pious city.'] There was (says the Scholiast) an altar at Athens raised to "E^io?, /. e. Mercy, whom they adored as a goddess. 238 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. for I come holy and pious, and bringing assistance to these citizens. When the lord is present who is the prince, he shall hear and know all my state ; but till then by no means be unkind. Cho. It is very just, old man, we should revere your arguments, which have been urged not with few words ; it sufficeth us that the governors of this land know all. Oed. Do you think he will have any reverence or care of a blind man ? and that he will come without reluctance? Cho. Doubtless, when he hears your name. Oed. Who will tell him that? Cho. The way indeed is long, yet much frequent- ed by travellers, who spread abroad all news. Be confident he hearing this will come ; for your name, old man, hath reached all people's ears: so that, though dull he sleeps, hearing of you he will come hither quickly. Oed. But may he come in an auspicious hour to this city and to me ; for what good man is not a friend to himself? Ant. O Jupiter, what shall I say, or whither shall Igo? Oed. What is it, daughter ? Ant. I see a woman coming near us upon a Sici- lian horse, and a Thessalian hat to hide her from the sun, upon her head, covers her face. What shall I say ? Is it she or is it not ? or doth my judgment wander so in doubtfulness that I know not what to say, a wretch ? she is no other but Ismene, for her cheerful eyes declare she is. Oed. What hast thou said, child? Ant. That I see your daughter and my sister; but by her voice we may soon know. OEDIPUS CQLONEUS. 239 ACT I. SCENE V. Oedipus, Antigone, Ismene, Chorus. Ism. O meeting the most agreeable to me of my father and sister, with what difficulty I have found you, and having found you with grief I see you. Oed. My child, thou art come. Ism. My father, miserable object to behold. Oed. O daughter of my own blood. Ism. Unhappy father. Oed. Daughter do I behold thee? Ism. But not free from sorrow. Oed. Touch me, child. Ism. I embrace you both together. Oed. Her and me ? Ism. And me the unhappy third. Oed. Child, why art thou come ? Ism. Out of care for you. Oed. The love of us? Ism. And likewise to tell you, that with this only faithful servant I came hither. Oed. But your younger brothers, where are they, at labour ? Ism. They are where they are ; there are sad dis- turbances now among them. Oed. How are they all conformed to the ^Egyptian laws, both in disposition and manner of life, /^ for there the men sit at home, working with the spindle, ' For there the men.] This custom was introduced by Sesostris, who imposed the duties of men on women, and of women on men : for, in order to change their dispositions, as well as their different tasks, he ordered the men to go bare-headed, but the women to let their hair grow ; the men to bear their burthens on their heads, but the women on their shoulders ; the men to make water sitting, but the women standing ; the men to wear but one garment, and the women two. This was done that there minds being emasculated, they might be the less able to resist his usurped power. 240 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. but their wives always abroad prepare all things necessary for the support of life. So those of you, my child^n, whom it was fit should labour, keep house like virgins, but you instead of them, for my sake, in my afflictions, employ all your pains for Antigone, since she left her infant food and her strength grew ripe, always an unhappy wanderer, with me led her life; often in the dismal woods without food, her tender feet inured to pain, in cold rains drenched, and scorched with the extremities of burning sunny heats, neglected the comforts of retirement at home, so she might get food for her father. But you, O daughter, went out before to bring all the oracles to thy father unknown to the Thebans, which are delivered concerning me. Thou hast been a faithful keeper to me since I was expelled out of the land, but now what message dost thou bring, Ismene, to thy father ? What war- like expedition hath driven thee from home ? Thou art not come empty, that I know well, but bringest some terrible news to me. Ism. The sufferings, father, which I suffered seeking for you, I will pass by, (for I will not renew my griefs, by a fruitless narration of them,) but what evils are now among your unfortunate chil- dren, those I come to declare. Before there was a contention between them whether the kingdom should descend to Creon, and the city not to be polluted ; then they reasoned concerning the ancient stain which polluted your miserable house. But now, from some of the gods, or a destructive spirit, sad strife is risen among the wretches themselves, who should possess the government and despotic power ; and the younger and inferior by age deprives Polynices, who was first born, of the throne, and drives him out of the country. Now he (as fame reports) coming to Argos, a fugitive, takes his new kindred and friends for his companions in the war, OEDIPUS COLONELS. ^41 that the glory of the Argians may mount to the skies by the ruin of the Theban land ; and these are not a mere multitude of words, but such as truly declare the cruel deeds. But when the gods will pity your miseries I cannot learn. Oed. Hast thou therefore any hope the gods have any care of me, and that I shall sometime be freed. Ism. I have, by these present oracles. Oed. What are they ? What hath been foretold ? Ism. That you would one time be desired by these men dead and live, for your assistance. Oed. What can be expected from such a man asl? ^ Ism. They say, that in you is all their strength. Oed. Now that I am no more, doth my manhood most appear ? Ism. For now the gods raise you up, before they ruined you. Oed. It is in vain to raise an old man, who fell when young. Ism. Know that Creon, on account of these things, will come in a little time. Oed. To do what, daughter? tell me. Ism. That they may place you near the Theban land, and possess your body ; but you may not enter the borders of the land. Oed. What advantage will they get by my lying near the gates ? Ism. Your tomb will be unfortunate and grievous to them, if from home. Oed. Without the information of God who can find out that ? Ism. For this cause they will place thee near the country, nor give thee thy own liberty. Oed. Will they bury me in Theban dust ? Ism. No, father, your kindred's blood which you have shed suffers not that.^ Oed. And would they not possess my body ? 242 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Ism, No ; for that would be unfortunate to the Thebans. Oed. How can that be ? Ism. Because of the wrath of the gods which pursues thee when they put thee in thy sepulchre. Oed. From whom didst thou hear those words which thou speakest ? Ism. From those who were present at the Delphic altars. Oed. And did Phoebus say these things of me? Ism. As the ambassadors say who returned from thence to Thebes. Oed. Which of my children did hear this ? Ism. Both together, and know it well. Oed. And did the wicked youths, hearing these things, out of love to me, resolve to seize the govern- ment ? Ism. I grieve to hear the news, yet bring it. Oed. But may the gods never extinguish this their fatal strife, but may the end only be in me of the war in which they are now engaged, and raise up r^rms : so may he who now possesseth the scep- tre and kingdom not continue in his present state, nor he who is gone out of the city return again ; who did not keep nor defend me their father, so dis-- honourably expelled the country ; for, driven fi'om my throne, I was sent out by them and declared an exile. But you may say that the city freely granted that as a gift to gratify my request. By no means, for in that day when anger raged, and it was most pleasant to me to die, and even to be stoned wdth stones, none appeared to favour my request ; but in time, when all trouble was^ mitigated, and they there saw my mind extravagant in grief had punish- ed me more than my former faults deserved, then straight the city violently drove me into banishment after 1 had been long in it. But they, when they could assist their father, would not do it ; but for a OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 243 small offence, a poor exile from them I wander ; and from those who are but virgins, as much as the weakness of their sex allows, I am supplied with necessaries of life, and am secured from harm in whatsoever place I come, and even my honour is by their care preserved. They, before their father, have chose to gain thrones and sceptres, and govern a country : but neither will they ever have me their assistant, nor shall they ever enjoy the empire, as I perceive by hearing these oracles which Ismene brings, and comparing them with the ancient oracles which Phcebus once delivered concerning me. Where- fore let them send Creon for me, or any other powerful citizen ; yet if you, strangers, together with these venerable goddesses of your country, will assist me, you will purchase by that act a mighty ^ saviour for this city, but for my enemies troubles. Cho. Oedipus is worthy to be pitied, he and his daughters ; but since you propose yourself, in your discourse, a saviour of this city, I would recommend to you what is convenient. Oed. Dear strangers, do but receive me now, and I will perform all that your will requires. Cho. Offer an expiation to the goddesses to whom you came, and whose ground you have trod. Oed. By what means, strangers, tell me? Cho. First taking sacred libations out of the per- petual fountain, offer them with pure hands. Oed. But when I have taken of that incorrupt stream ; what then ? Cho. There are cups, the work of an ingenious artist, whose heads and * two ears do thou crown. ' Saviour for this city.'] Either in the Peloponnesian or other war, though this was feigned by the poet to flatter his country. Scholiast, * Two ears do thou.] Gr. "ha.Za.e, a|[A(p»ro/x»?, double mouthed, or handled, or rather having heads of animals engraved on each side. R 2 244 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Oed, With green boughs, or threads, or by what manner? Cho. With the new fleece of a young sheep. Oed. Be it so : what is within the cup, how must I offer that? Cho. Stand, and " pour out Ubations to the sun. Oed. Out of those pitchers which you speak of shall I pour them ? Cho. Water out of the three fountains, and the last drop. Oed. With what shall I fill this ? Tell me that likewise. Cho. With honey and water, add no wine. Oed. But when the leafed earth hath received these things, what then ? Cho. "" Add three times nine olive-boughs with both your hands, and offer these prayers. " Pour out libations to the sun.^ Gr. first morning. These libations offered to the sun were mostly honey alone, or honey mixed with water ; but it was unlawAd to offer him any wine, as appears by the following express prohibition of the Chorus. Honey and water, add no wine. Cratinus speaks of the crx'i'vQv [jnyoiMy, or mastick-tree, being offered to him. Go stand before the sun, and take in your hand the great mastick- tree. ^ Add three times nine olive boughs.] Of the several kinds of xAa^ot IkIvj^ioi, or (pvTO^altq ixl^^ej, i. e. suppliant boughs, mentioned in our notes on Oedipus Tyrannus, Act i. Scene i. Observe farther, that the most in use with suppliants were laurel or olive ; whence Statins, Mite nemus circa VittatcB laurus, et supplicis arbor olivce. About this grove the peaceful olive grows. And sprightly laurel, on whose verdant boughs. Wreathed garlands hang H. H. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 245 Oed. Supplication being my chief affair those would I hear. Cho, Since we invoke the Eumenides, do thou pray thyself, that with a tender breast they would receive their votar}% who brings safety to us, and if thou hast any other friend let him assist thee, ^ nor let thy voice be heard or thy prayer long; then retiu-n and come away : after this with confidence I may assist you, if you obey these orders ; othervdse I shall fear you, stranger. Oed. My children, have you heard those country >strangers ? Ism. We have heard, and do yovi give your com- mands, to do whatsoever their will requires. Oed. These things are out of my way, for I am deficient in two evils, in that I have not power, nor my sight ; one of you come and perform these com- mands, for I suppose it sufficient if for many one do them in benevolence. With speed something is to be done, but leave me not alone, for this my body alone cannot creep without a guide. Ism. I go therefore to execute these orders ; but that place which I must find out, where I may have the water, that would I learn. Cho. Here, at this wood, O stranger ; but if you have need of any thing, there is an inhabitant who will inform you. Ism. I go therefore to this pious work, ^ The laurel was esteemed a sign of victory and triumph, the olive of peace and good-will. y Nor let thy voice he heard.'] These rites, like the Eleusinia, were performed with most profound silence, before which they sacrificed a ram to the demi-god Hesuchus, who had a temple at Cydon, in Crete, and his priestesses were called Hesuchidse. Whence some authors have put silence for religion itself. Hor. lib. iii. od. 2. Est et Jideli tuta silentio Merces. 246 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Ant, But thou here guard my father, nor ought we to repine at those services we pay to our parents. ACT I. SCENE VI. Chorus, Oedipus, Antigone. Cho. ^ It is a grievous thing to awake an evil that lay long asleep, yet I desire to hear Oed. What? Cho, Of the cause of your sad and miserable calamity in which you are fallen. Oed. O, by your kind reception do not make me repeat the story of my griefs, for I have endured sad hardships. Cho. That rumour which is much spread, nor as yet ceaseth, I desire to hear. Oed. Alas, alas ! Cho. Be content, I beseech you. Oed. Woe is me ! Cho. Obey me, and I in my turn will tell as much as you. Oed. I have suffered evil, * strangers ; I have suf- fered, but, God knows, unwillingly, and none of them were of my own choice. Cho. But how? Oed. The city, unknowing, joined me to an in- cestuous marriage-bed. Cho. Didst thou (as I hear) partake thy mother's wretched bed ? Oed. Woe is me ! it is death to hear these things, but these two are descended from me. Cho. How sayest thou ? Oed. O children, fruits of my crimes. « * It is a grievous thing to, Sfc] Tsmene beiiig gone, the Chorus desires Oedipus to relate the story of his misfortunes, which he is unwilling to do. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 247 Cho. O Jupiter ! Oed, They are bom by one mother's painful throes. Cho. They are, therefore, your children, and, likewise sisters of their father. Oed, Alas! Cho. Alas, indeed ! Oed. Numberless evils. Cho. Thou hast suffered. Oed. I have suffered sad evils. Cho. Thou hast done. Oed. I have not done. Cho. What, therefore? Oed. ^ I received a gift, which, unfortunate ^\Tetch, I wish I had never received of the city. Cho. Thou wretch ! why, therefore, didst thou commit that murder ? Oed. What is it thou desirest to know ? Cho. Of your father. Oed. Alas ! thou addest one sorrow to another. Cho. Thou art undone. Oed, I am undone, but I have Cho. What is that?- Oed. A just excuse. Cho. What excuse ? Oed. I will tell thee ; I have slain and destroyed others, but by law guiltless, and ignorant I did it. Cho. But the king is come here to us, Theseus, the son of iEgeus. ACT I. SCENE VII. Theseus, Oedipus, Antigone. Thes. Having heard formerly from many of the bloody ruin of your eyes, I know you to be the son * I received a gift.'] i,e. His mother in marriage, as a recom- pense for solving the Enigma of Sphinx. 248 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. of Laius ; and now, since I have heard of you in the way, I know you better ; for your habit and misera- ble body declare who you are. In pity, therefore, to your sad state, I would know of you, unhappy Oedipus, what dost tliou demand of us or of the city ? thyself, or this miserable attendant on thee, speak ; for you must urge some prodigious request which I will refuse. The dangers which have threatened me in foreign lands, as they do every stranger, have taught me to abandon none, nor re- fuse my aid against his dangers ; for, being a man, I am sensible that the events which to-morrow may bring to pass, are not more certainly known to me than they are to you. Oed. O Theseus, thou hast shewn thy noble worth in few words, so that 1 need to speak but little, for thou hast spoke both who I am, of what father born, and from what land I came, so that nothing remains to me but to speak what I require, and my discourse is done. Tkes. Tell me what you require. Oed. I come to deliver my miserable body a gift to you, not desirable for sight, but the advantage from it is greater than its form is beauteous. The. What advantage dost thou come to bring ? Oed. You may know in time, but not at present. The. When will the advantage by you be made appear? Oed. When I die, and you bury me. The. Thou askest the last things of life, middle things thou forgetest, or makest light of. Oed. There those middle things are likewise given me. The. A small favour dost thou ask of me. Oed. But, observe, here is not a small conflict. The. Whether do you speak with respect to your own kindred or me ? Oed. They will necessitate me to depart hence. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 249 The. Then, if they will, it is unfit that you con- tinue in banishment. Oed. When I would have fled they did not per- mit me. The. Weak man, in adversity anger is not decent. Oed. When you shall have learnt all the truth, then admonish me ; but, in the mean time, let me speak. The. Inform me, for I ought not to speak Avithout judgment. Oed. O Theseus, I have suffered sad evils upon evils. The. Do you mean the ancient calamities of your house ? Oed. No ; for that discourse is in the mouth of every one in Greece. The. What is that you suffer beyond human bearing ? Oed. Thus it is with me ; I w as driven out of my country by my own offspring, nor is it allowed me again to return, as being a parricide. The. Why, therefore, should they send for you to live apart from them ? Oed. A divine oracle obliges them. The. What misfortunes do they fear from the oracle ? Oed. That it is their fate to be overcome in this land. The. How can these grievous quarrels happen between them and me ? Oed. The gods alone are free from the decays of age and death, all other things powerful time con- founds; the vigour of the earth fades, of bodies likewise fades ; faith dies, unfaithfulness revives, and the same spirit of unity is not lasting among friends, nor with one city towards another ; those things which once were pleasant become bitter, and the same things again pleasant. So, likewise, now, 250 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. if a settled tranquillity seems to reign between the Thebans and you, a long succession of many suc- ceeding nights and days will at last disclose that fatal period, wherein they will dissolve this mutual harmony in war, for a small fault, when my sleep- ing buried carcass, though long cold, shall occasion the spilling of their warm blood, if Jove be still Jove, and Apollo be true. But it is not agreeable to speak unalterable oracles ; indulge me in those favours which I first did ask, keeping only your faith, and you shall never say you received Oedipus an useless inhabitant of those places, if the gods do not deceive me. Cho, Before, O king, these and such like speeches this man spok^ relating to this land. The. Who, therefore, should reject the benevo-. lence of such a man ? Should I, whose palace be- fore was always a common refuge, even for captive foes ? But this man comes a suppliant of the god- desses, and pays not to me and this land a small tribute. For all these reasons, I respect him, and I will never reject his kindness, but wdli grant him a seat in this land. If it be pleasing to thee, stran- ger, to remain here, I order you to take care of him ; but, if it please him, he may go with me. I allow tbee, Oedipus, to judge and choose which thou vrilt, and I shall agree with you. OecL O Jove ! may all happiness attend such good men. The. What wouldest thou, therefore, go into my palace ? Oed. If I may have liberty, there is a place here. The. Wherein, what wilt thou do ? for I will not resist you. Oed. Wherein I shall overcome those who banish- ed me. The. Great then is the benefit of your residing here. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 251 Oed. Aye, if you make good to me the promise of your assistance. The. Trust that to me, I will not betray you. Oed. I will not bind you by oath, as a wicked man. The. You should gain no more by that than by my word. Oed. How, therefore, will you do ? The. What dost thou chiefly fear ? Oed. There will come men. The. Then these will take care. Oed. Beware of the consequence if you leave me. The. Teach me not what I must do. Oed. There is an absolute necessity to fear. The. My heart fears not. Oed. Thou knowest not their threats. The. I know that no man shall lead thee away home by force from me ; many threats ancj many vain w^ords in rage they may breathe, but, when the mind is firm w^ith its own strength, threats are no more; but, though they be able to speak terrible things to these of leading you away, I know ^ the dan- ger of taking you away by force will affright them from the attempt. Therefore, you may be of cou- rage without my counsel, if Apollo sent you hither ; likewise, though I be not present, I know that m j name will secure you, that you will not suffer ill. ACT I. SCENE VIII. Chorus. Strophe I. Cho, Thou art come, stranger, unto these fertile ^ The danger of taking you away hy force will affright them from the attempt.^ Oav^crErai (jluk^qv to ^iv^o "TreXayo?, a^e -KXa^ifjiov. There will appear a long sea, and unnavigable. For, as danger* of the seas affright men from sailing, so hazardous enterprizes affright men from undertaking them. 252 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. regions, the best pastures of all the earth, a fruitful hill, where the sweet nightingale, chiefly frequenting, sings with quivering voice in green valleys, sitting under shady tufts of ivy, and fruitful leaves of the god Bacchus, unpierced by the sun, nor shattered by any storms of winds, where raging Bacchus al- ways walks, conversant among his divine Nourses. Antistrophe I. *" Narcissus, bearing beautiful leaves, flourishes daily by celestial dew, with which a crown, accord- ing to the ancient custom, is knit in honour to the great goddesses ; and here the fields are gilt with gilden saffron ; nor do the never-sleeping fountains which nourish the streams of Cephissus fail, but, daily fruitful to the fields, with a perpetual stream, he glides ; nor do the choirs of Muses abhor these places, ,nor golden Venus. Strophe II. There is here such a thing as I never heard of in the land of Asia, nor in Dorica, the great island of Pelops, a plant which grows of itself. A terror to ^ Narcissus, bearing beautiful leaves, Sfc] Commentators differ upon this passage ; some say, that, by the great goddesses are meant Ceres and Proserpine ; others say the Furies. They who contend for the former opinion say, a f^ovov ^a^xvaiv uvlci<; r£(poivHa-i. But the other opinion seems to be the truest, for this place was sacred to the Furies. Secondly, Euphorion saith, 'EvfAsAhq u^y^ret; ^vytxl^i^ai (pQ^y.vvo(;, Na^>ti(70-o»o iTrjre^"? w^ojta/Ar^E?. Eumenides, the beautiful daughters of Phorcun, crowned wilfli Narcissus. It is ascribed to them either because it grows near tombs, or from its name, which alludes to the word vcc^Koiv, to affright, which is the business of those goddesses. Again, if it be the ancient crown of Proserpine, or the flower which she was gathering to make a crown when she was borne away by Pluto, Sophocles would not have used the plural number to comprehend Ceres likewise. — Lastly, in the Thesmophoria there were no such crowns used, but the high -priest, the priestesses, and torch-bearer, wore crowns of myrtle and yew. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 253 the destroying sword, which chiefly flourishes in this region, '^ the leaf of the brown fruitful olive tree. Neither young man nor one in old age who commands durst destroy it, but the eye of ^ Jupiter Morios is always watchful to guard it and brown- eyed Minerva. Antistrophe II. I have another commendation for this metropolis to mention, which is indeed its greatest glory, a gift bestowed upon her by the great deity, and that is, that it is excellent for breeding horses of most generous kind, and the practice of the naval art. O son of Saturn, king Neptune, thou hast raised it to all this glory. Thou first didst make the rein a restraint to the horse for these cities, and the ship, well stored with oars, grasped by the rowers hands, ^ The leaf of the brown olive tree.] The Scholiast, on this passage, cites the words of Ister, saying, that there was in the academy a branch of that olive-tree which grew in the Acropolis, and they decreed that whoever cut it down should be deemed ac- cursed, whether friend or enemy ; whereupon, when Archidamus, son of Zeuxidamus, king of the Lacedaemonians, invaded Attica, with ten thousand Peloponnesians and Boeotians, they ravaged all the country, yet would not hurt those olives which grew in the Academy, for fear of the curse ; yet Aristotle informs us that the conqueror in any of the games which were exercised at the cele- bration of the Panathenaea, a festival in honour of Minerva, received a crown of them. These olives were called (xo^icci, and the tree was produced by Minerva in a contention with Neptune, which should give name to Athens, and, therefore, they were sacred to her. Some derive the name from the word fJt,o^oq, death, in remembrance of the misfortune of Halirrhothius, the son of Neptune, who, in a rage at his father's defeat, offering to cut down the olive-tree, missed his aim, and gave himself a fatal blow. Others derive the name from /xe^o?, i. e. part; because, ac- cording to some, the olives of which the victor's crown consisted, were given by contribution, every one being obliged to contribute his part towards the solemnization of this festival. * Jupiter Morios,] The Scholiast calls him Zey^ tteo* 'Ajta^»7fA»av, Jupiter near the Academy ; for there the tree grew, and Jupiter had a temple near it. 254 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. as swiftly rides upon the yielding waves as the ^ Nereides who have a hundred feet. ACT II. SCENE I. Antigone, Oedipus, Chorus. Ant. O land, commended with much praise, now is it convenient for you to shew your merit of that noble praise? Oed, What sudden accident hath caused thy transport, child? Ant. Creon approaches to us not without guards. Oed. Dear strangers, loved old men to me, now the time of safety approaches. Cho. Be of good courage, it will come ; though 1 am an old man, yet the strength of this land is not old. ACT II. SCENE 11. Creon and Followers, Oedipus, Antigone, Cti^rus. Cre. Ye noble inhabitants of this land, I see in your eyes that you are struck with sudden fear at my coming. You need not fear me, or speak an ill- boding word ; I come not as though willing tojdo' any violent act, since I am an old man, and know that I am come to the most powerful city of Greece. I was sent to persuade this man to follow me to the Theban land ; and not by one, but I was commanded by all the Thebans to undertake the task ; for my affinity to him obhges me more than any other to la- ^ Nereides who have a hundred feet. ^ They are the daughters of Nereus, son of Oceanus and Tethys, and are said to be fifty in number. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 255 ment his misfortunes. But, O miserable Oedipus, hear me and come home, for the whole people of Thebes call thee as they justly ought, and 1 so much the more justly than all the rest, as I grieve the more for your present evils, otherwise I were the worst of men ; for I see thee, a miserable stranger, a continual wanderer, wanting all support but such as a wretched maiden can give. Alas, poor princess I I never thought she should fall into such an abyss of misery, into which the unhappy maid is fallen, whose lot is always to provide the sustenance of life for you with poor diet ; so big and yet unmarried, and is exposed to the injuries of every stranger. Sad, indeed, is that reproach ! O, wretched, I have reproached thee myself, and all our race, but it is impossible to conceal things that are so plain. Now thou, by our father's gods, obey me, Oedipus, sub- mit to me and willingly return to your city, the palace of your ancestors, bidding farewell to this city ; for it is fit your father's house have most of your esteem, to which you owe your education. Oed. O thou who durst do all things, and who concealest in every fan* word some subtle contri- vance, why dost thou attempt those things, and wouldest a second time plunge me into my former miseries, that I might again renew my grief? Be- fore, when I laboured with so many domestic evils, when it would have even been a pleasure to me to depart the land, you would not grant me that favour, though I desired ; but, when oppressed with sorrow, I panted for ease, and would lay down the weight, and lead my life at home, understanding my rage proceeded too far ; then you expelled me and drove me into exile. Where was then this boasted esteem for your relation ? But now again when you see this city and the people my friends, you strive to draw me hence, and mildly speak the harshest things : and thus, in making offers of your love to 256 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. those who slight it, you resemble him who will give nothing nor assist thee at thy urgent suit, but when yoLir mind is satisfied with those things which you before desired, then should make offers of his gifts, when they can merit no thanks ; would you not call that a needless favour ? And such gifts thou otferest me, in bare pretences good, but bad in fact. I shall lay before these the proofs of thy baseness. Thou comest to lead me away, not to my own palace, but to place me near the borders of the city, that it might be free from harms from this land, but you will never be so fortunate : but, on the contrary, my evil genius will always infest your country, and my sons will only have so much of my land as will serve them to die in. Do I not better understand the fate of the Thebans than you ? Very much ; by so much as those are wiser of whom I am informed, ^ Apollo, and Jove, who is his sire. Thou comest hither prepared with a lying tongue, and much vio- lence of speech, but thou shalt gain more harm than safety by thy talk. Begone, for in those enterprizes thou wilt not prevail, and suffer me to live here, for we do not live unhappy if we are content. s ApollOy and Jovcy who is his sire.] The ancients thoughl that Apollo only delivered those oracles to men which he received from his father Jove, as jEschylus saith in his Suppliants. Zevq lyKOcBsT Ao|ia. Send quickly, send, for so my Jove, inspired, Phoebus commands. H, H. On the same account in the Eumenides, when he brings in Apollo commanding men to reverence his own oracles, he adds, they must also pay due respect to those of Jupiter, without mentioning any of the other prophetic deities ; his words are these : — Kayo; T£ ^^nor^ht; ra? Ijtxac ts kou Aio? Ta-^Qiiv y.z>,tvu. To mine and Jove's most sacred oracles ■ . Pay due obeisance H. H. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 257 Cre. Dost thou think that thy afflictions fall more heavy on me than on thyself, that thus thou talkest? Oecl. It would be my great comfort if thou wert neither able to persuade me, nor these my friends. Ore. O unhappy wretch, although advanced in age thou shewest no proofs of thy understanding, but even in old age maintainest thy folly. Oed. Thou art bitter in speech, but I know^ no just man that always speaks well. Cre. These things differ, to speak much and speak seasonably. Oed. How short but seasonable thou speakest this ? Cre. Not for them who are of your mind. Oed. Begone, for I wdll speak for these ; neither regard me, nor stay any longer where I should dwell. Ore. I call these to witness, and not you, what w^ords thou shalt answer for to your friends, if I take thee. Oed. Who should take me by force from these my companions ? Cre. But when absent from them, then thou shalt suffer. Oed. How dost thou think to execute what thou hast threatened ? Cre. Of your two daughters I have just now taken one, and sent her away ; and this, likewise, I will speedily take. Oed. Woe is me ! Cre. Thou soon shalt have a greater cause to la- ment. [Tahes hold of Antigone, Oed. Hast thou my child ? Cre. Aye, but I will not have her long. Oed. O strangers, what will you do? Will you betray me ? Will you not drive this impious wretch out of the land ? Cho, Hence, begone quickly, stranger ; thou dost not justly these things, nor what thou didst before. 258 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Cre. Let it be your business to take her away, though against her will, if she will not go freely, [To his guards. Ant. Woe is me, a wretch ! whither shall I flee ? What help shall I find from God or man? [They take her. Cho. What dost thou, stranger ? Cre. I will not touch this man, but my own niece. , Oed. O governors of the land. Cho. O, stranger, thou dost not justly. Cre. Aye, justly. Cho. How justly? Cre. I lead my own away. Antistrophica Strophe. Ant. O city. Cho. What dost thou, stranger ? If thou wilt not let her go, thou shalt prove the strength of my hands. Cre. Keep me off. Cho. I will, so that thou shalt not discommend me. Oed. Thou resistest the city, if thou injurest me. Cho. Did I not foretel the consequence? Cre. Let the maid go quickly from your hands. [The Chorus take Antigone from Creon and his followers. Cho. Command not where thou dost not rule. Cre. I tell thee let her go. Cho. But I bid thee begone. Come forth, come inhabitants ; the city is destroyed, my city by force ; come hither to my help. Ant. I am dragged away, a wretch, O strangers, strangers. [Creon s followers seize Antigone again. Oed. Where art thou, my daughter ? Ant. Taken away by force. Oed. O daughter, stretch out thy hands. Ant. But I cannot. Cre. Will you not lead her hence ? OEDIPUS COLONEDS. 259 Oed, O me, unhappy wretch ! Ore. No longer shall you walk by these sup- porters. [Antigone carried off^^ But since you will prevail against your country and friends, of whom commanded I do this, and being likewise a king, do prevail ; but, in time, thou shalt know that neither thou dost now do well for thyself, nor what you did before against the will of your friends, gratifying thy anger which is always hurtful to thee. Cho. Stay here, stranger. Cre. I charge you touch me not. Cho, I will not let you go, since you have de- prived me of them. Cre. You shall soon lay down a greater ransom for the whole city, for I will not only take these. Cho. What wilt thou enterprize ? Cre. I will take him and lead him aw^ay. Cho. It is dreadful what thou sayest. Cre. And that shall be now done, unless the king of the country hinder me. Oed. Base slave, wilt thou touch me ? Cre. I command thee to hold thy peace. Oed. Let not the goddesses of our land restrain my tongue from cursing thee, who hast taken away my child, the only eye I have, by force ; that that Joss might be further added to my before lost eyes. But may the sun, the god who sees all things, grant that thou and thy kindred may lead such a life in old age as I do. Cre. Behold this, inhabitants of this land^ Oed. They see both me and thee, and understand, that indeed injured, I defend myself by words. Cre. I will not restrain my anger, but 1 will lead thee away by force, though alone, and oppressed with age. Antistrophe. Oed. Woe is me, a wretch ! s 2 260 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Cho, What confidence hadst thou to come hither? Thinkest thou to effect thy cursed designs ? Cre. I think so. Cho, If thou dost, I count this no more a city. Cre. In a just cause the small overcome the great. Oed. Do you hear what he saith? Cho. But he shall not do so. Cre. Jove may know that, not thou. Cho. Is not this a reproach ? Cre. A reproach, indeed, yet must be borne. Cho. Hoa ! all the city, all the leaders ; leaders, come with speed, since they proceed too far. ACT II. SCENE III. Theseus, Oedipus, Chorus, Creon. Thes. What noise is this? What is the matter? Out of what fear didst thou call me ^from sacrificing oxen at the altar to the marine god, the guardian of this hill? speak, that I may know all on account whereof I came hither, with quicker steps than easy to my feet. Oed. O most beloved friend, I know your voice ; I have suffered dreadful things just now from this man. Thes. What are they who hath injured thee? vSpeak. Oed. This Creon, whom thou seest, comes, and hath taken away of my children the sole comfort of my age. Thes. What sayest thou? ^ From sacrificing oxen^ The contrivance of the poet is here admirable, in supposing Theseus, at the time of this dispute, to have been at Neptune's altar offering sacrifices, and to have heard the clamour; and this saves the trouble of repeating to him the whole matter. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 261 Oed. Thou hast heard what I have suffered. Thes. Therefore let some of the servants with all speed go to the altars, and assemble all the people, both horse and foot, from the sacrifices, that quitting all affairs, they may hasten to the place where two roads meet, lest the girls pass by; for I were a laughing-stock to this stranger should I be subdued by violence. Go with speed as I have commanded you ; but this man, since I came in anger, of w hich he is worthy, I will not suffer to escape my hands without a wound. And now by the same law by which he came hither, shall he be treated ; thou shalt not go out of this land before thou bringest them, and setest them before me. Since thou hast both dishonoured me, the memory of thy parents, and thy own countiy : who coming into a city which ex- erciseth justice, and doth nothing contrary to law ; afterwards, despising the laws of the country, in- truding into it by force, didst take aw ay what thou would st, didst use open force, and suppose that my city was destitute of subjects, or enslaved; and even myself am nothing in thy eyes. Thebes did not instruct thee in these principles, for it is not used to bring up unjust men, nor would it commend you, if it understood you ravished what belongs to me and the gods by force, bringing aw ay miserable sup- plicants. If I were to go into your country, though 1 had the most just of reasons, without the king of the country's leave, whosoever he is, I would not draw^ away by force nor take ought, but should know how a stranger ouglit to behave himself among the citizens. But thou shamest unworthily this city, and a multitude of years both makes you an old man, and void of understanding. Therefore I com- manded before, and now I command, that somebo- dy with the greatest speed bring back the maidens, imless by constraint and unwillingly thou wilt be 262 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. ' an inhabitant of this land : and this I say to thee, my mind agreeing with my words. Clio. Thou seest, stranger, in what case thou art ; as to thy ancestors thou appearest just, but by ill deeds provest thyself base. Cre. I, neither thinking this city without men, O son of JEgeus, or without counsel (as thou sayest) have done this deed. But knowing this, that no love for my kindred should possess you, so as to maintain them by force against my will; and I knew that you would not receive a parricide and polluted person, who in an incestuous marriage begot an offspring. And I knew likewise that there was such an ^ Areopagus, so well affected to the citizens of this land, as would not suffer such a wanderer to live with them in the city. In confidence of these things I seized this prey. And I had not done it, had he not cursed me and my race with bitter im- precations : wherefore I, suffering, thought fit to act thus in return ; for anger is a passion which death alone can extirpate, since no grief disturbs the dead. Wherefore do thou what thou wilt ; since solitude, while I say what is just, makes me little; though of this age I will endeavour to resist these practices. Oed. O shameless confidence! whom dost thou think thou reproachest ? Me, who am an old man, * An inhabitant of this land.] Gr. /*£Totxo?. Upon which the Scholiast says, /^£?otx»ij xa^acrt ra? a-rzro Iri^xq xu^xq /lAela/SatvovIa?, xat Kctloiyi^vloK; h It£^«k, i.e. they are called i^iraiitot, Metoicoi; who come from one country to inhabit in another. Yet they were more properly called fjuhomai, who came from other countries and jfixed at Athens. And Theseus instituted a sacrifice for their sake, called [xiroiKitx, which was celebrated on the 16th day of Hecatorabaeon. ^ Areopagus.] Gr."A^£ioq Troiyoq, or d^noTrdyoq, literally, a hill of Mars. It was a council at Athens, which consisted of judges who determined capital matters, and near it was a temple of Mars. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 263 or yourself, who hast with much freedom of speech ran over murders, marriages, and calamities, which I unfortunate unwiUingly endured ? for so it pleased the gods I should, being angry on some account with our former race. But in myself thou canst not find out any offence, worthy reproach, by which I have offended against myself or my kindred. For if any oracle was delivered to my father that he should die by his children, how can you justly re- proach me with that, who was not as yet sprung from the seed of my father and mother, but was then unborn? But if 1 was born miserable, as I was, (for I fell into the hands of my father and killed him, not knowing what I did, or against whom,) how canst thou justly blame an involuntary crime ? But art thou not ashamed to force me to mention my marriage with my mother, she being thy sister? Which I shall soon speak of, nor will I now be silent, since thou hast given a lopse to thy licentious tongue : she bore me, O miseries ! being ignorant ; yet she bore me, and bore to me an offspring a re- proach to herself. But one thing therefore I know, that thou willingly reproachest her and me with these things, though unwillingly I married her, with grief I mention it ; but neither for this marriage can I be justly reproached, nor for my father s murder, which you always object against me with opprobrious lan- guage. Only answer me one thing which I inquire ; imagine one should stand ready prepared to kill you, being a just man, wouldst thou inquire if he was thy father who was about to kill thee, or wouldst thou immediately punish him? I think if thou lovedst thy life, thou wouldst punish the author of thy danger, nor consider whether it is just or not. These evils I myself ran into, the gods driving me on; for which I believe my father, were he alive, would not condemn me. But although thou art un- just, thou thinkest thou speakest every word right, 264 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. whether it be fit to be mentioned or not : thou re- proachest me before these, and art pleased to flatter the name of Theseus and Athens thus, that it is well inhabited ; but while thus thou praisest it, many things thou forgetest, that this is the most religious of all the cities wheresoever the gods are worship- ped, from whence thou stealest me a suppliant old man, and makest a captive of me, and goest away, taking my daughters. Wherefore I come calling upon our goddesses, and beseech them with suppli- cations, that they would come assistants to me, and make you know by what men this city is guarded. Cho. This stranger seems a good man, O king! but his calamities are miserable, and worthy to be pitied. Thes. Enough of words ; those that went hence make haste away, and do we stand still who have thus suffered? Ore. What, therefore, dost thou command a weak old man to do? Tlies. To lead the way, and I will go thy compa- nion, that if in these places thou hast our maids, thyself mayest shew me where they are ; but if your companions seized of them, escape, nothing can I do ; for others shall hasten and apprehend thy com- panions, who shall not be able to escape out of this land, that they may pray to your gods. But go be- fore and know what state thou art in, and how for- tune hath caught thee in those snares which thou didst lay for others. Possessions are not to be kept by unjust frauds, nor shall you tind me otherwise as to this affair, since I have found thee neither come naked nor unprepared for so great an affront, with all this boldness. But there is something in which confiding thou hast offered this violence, which I must find out, and not suffer the city to be overcome by one man. Knowest thou ought of these things ? or do they seem to thee now spoke in OEDIPUS COLONELS. 265 vain, as when thou first didst conceive this fraud they would have seemed. Ore. Thou hast spoken nothing to me worthy of hlame. But at home we shall know what is fit to be done. Thes. Now go away and threaten, but thou Oedipus remain here quiet, being confident that un- less 1 die, I will not cease before I make thee master of thy children. Oed. May the gods prosper thee for this noble act, and for your just care for me. ACT II. SCENE IV. Chorus, Strophe. Cho, ^ I wish I were where crowds of enemies do mix together in loud-roaring battle, or ^ at the Pythian, or the " bright shores, where the venerable priestesses look after the sacrifices of Ceres for men, and whose tongue the golden ° key of the Eumol- ^ I wish I were whei^e crowds.] The Chorus, supposing Creon to come with a power, in order to force away Oedipus, and that Theseus would defend him, concluded there would of necessity be a battle between them, therefore wishes he might be a specta- tor of it. °* At the Pythian.'] i.e. At the altar of Pythian Apollo, in Marathon, which was about ten miles from Athens, famous for Theseus's victory over the Marathonian bull. " Bright shores.] Shining from the light of the torches and mystic fire, made use of in the rites of Ceres, in Eleusina. ° Key of the Eumolpian priests.] Because those mysteries are not to be revealed, the tongue is, as it were, locked with keys. They were sacred to Ceres and her daughter Proserpine. Some think they were instituted by Ceres herself; others are of opinion that the first Eumolpus introduced them, but Acesodorus assures us it was a fifth from him ; for he writes that Eleusis was first in- habited by natives, then by Thracians, who came in with Eumol- pus to assist him in the wars against Erechtheus, where he begat Ceryx ; and he begat Eumolpus the second, he Antiphemus, he 266 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. pian priests closeth up, where I suppose warlike Theseus and the two unmarried sisters will join in battle with a loud clamour in these countries. Antistrophe I. Will they approach at the ^ western side of the rock of Niphas, in the verdant pastures of Oeta ? They shall neither escape with horses nor swift chariots, but shall be taken : for terrible is the violence of our inhabitants, terrible the vigour of the Athenians ; every rein displays its lustre ; all hasten to ascend the horses, well adorned with various trappings, who honour Minerva, the rider, and Neptune, the beloved son of Rhea. Strophe II. Do they .now act, or delay ? How doth my mind presage that Creon will quickly deliver the maid who suffered sad affliction for her kindred ? Jupiter performs something every day. I am a prophet of fortunate wars. O that I were a nimble dove, that, with a speedy flight, I might ascend the clouds of the sky, to see what my mind presages concerning this battle. Antistrophe II. O Jupiter, governor of all the gods ! who behold- est all things ! grant the rulers of this land, with a victorious power, to overcome this troop, which is Musaeus, the Poet, and he Eumolpus the third, who instituted the mysteries of Ceres and Proserpine, and the order of priests called Eumolpidae. The same author says they were observed every year. P Western side of the rock of JSJiphas.] He means here Mount JEgaleos, it being the utmost western boundary of this people, dividing them from the Messenians. He sums up the places where it is most probable the fight should be between Creon and The- seus, at the rock of Niphas, called the smooth rock, or the hill of ^galeos. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 267 an easy prey. Thee, venerable maid, Pallas Mi- nerva, and Apollo, the hunter, I invoke, and his sister Diana, the pursuer of spotted nimble deers, I beseech you to come with your divine assistance both to this country and the citizens. . ACT III. SCENE I. Chorus, Oedipus, Clio. O, wandering' stranger, you will not say to me, who see what I foretel, that I am a false pro- phet, for I see the maids now approaching ne?ir again. Oed. Where, where, what sayest thou ? ACT III. SCENE II. Antigone, Ismene, Theseus, Oedipus, Chorus, Ant. O father, father, which of the gods granted you to see the best of men who sent vis hither to you? Oed. O daughter, are you here ? Ant. The hands of Theseus, and the dear com- panions of his arms, preserved us. Oed. Come to your father, child, and support this body which had given up all hope. Ajit. You ask what you may obtain ; this favour suits with our desire, Oed. Where, therefore, where are you ? Ant. We both approach together. Oed. Most beloved! Ant. Everything suits with our father's desire. Oed. O supporters of your father ! Ant. But unhappy supporters of an unhapp) father. 268 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Oed. I have now recovered my dear children, nor should I be most unhappy thougti I died, w^hile you are near me. Support, my child, my right side, keep by your father, ease me who was before a for- saken and miserable wanderer, and tell me all that was done, as short as may be, for a short discourse suits best your age. Ant. This is he who preserved us ; it is fit to hear him, father, and so will my business be short. Oed. O Theseus, wonder not what pleases me, for my children coming imhoped for, I prolong my speech. I know that this satisfaction could not proceed to me from any other besides you, for thou hast preserved her, and no other; and may the. gods grant all the good I wish you and this land, since, by experience, I am taught to prove, that piety with you alone, of all men, dwells ; and equity and truth, knowing this, therefore, with these words I testify, that what I possess I possess by you and no other. Stretch forth to me, my lord, thy right hand, that I may touch and kiss thee, if it be just. But, what do I say ? why should I, being a miserable man, desire to touch a man in whom there is no spot of guilt ? I will not let you go ; for it is fit those only of all men who are ex- perienced in ills should grieve for others. But thou, from henceforth, partake my joy ; and, hereafter, let me feel the same good effects of your protection as to this day I have. The. I wonder not why thou hast enlarged thy discourse, delighted with thy children, nor that be- fore me thou hast received the tale from them which I had to tell. We conceive no grief from thence, for we do not strive that our lives should be famous more by words than deeds, and of this my deeds have given good proof, for we have been false to none of those promises which we have sworn to execute, but come bringing them safe and pure from OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 269 all things which were threatened. How that con- test was ended why should I boast, which you may know yourself from these ? But revolve upon the words which just now were told me, as I came hither, which, though they seem but trifling, yet deserve your wonder, for men ought to neglect nothing that is to be done. Oed, What is it ? tell me, who know nought of those things you inquire of The. They say, some man, no countryman of yours, but a relation, sits at the altar of Neptune, where I was sacrificing before I came hither. Oed. Who is he ? What doth he desire by sitting down there ? The. I know but one thing, as they tell me, he desireth some short discourse with you, in no proud manner. Oed. What is it ? for his sitting at the altar is not on a small account. The. They tell you he comes to discourse with you, and desires the liberty to retire safely the same way again. Oed. Who should it be who sits at this altar? The. Think if you have any relation among the Argives who should desire to obtain that request of you. Oed. Most loved of men, stay where you are. ^ The. What has happened to you ? Oed. Ask not. The. Tell me what is the matter. Oed. I know, having heard of these, who he is that stands there. The. Who is he ? Him whom I have repri- manded } Oed. My hated son, O king, whose discourse I could the worst of all men's bear to hear. The. How ; can you not hear and not act against 270 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. your inclinations ? How can it be troublesome to you only to hear ? Oed. That voice comes as the most detested to his father's ears. Put me not to the necessity of submitting to your demand. The. But, if this suppliant's habit enforces it, consider if reverence to the gods is not to be ob- served. Aiit. Father, yield to me, though I am young I will advise ; suffer Theseus to gratify his mind and the God as he desires, and submit that my brother should come ; be of courage, he will not force you from your opinion, though he should speak to you some unbecoming speeches. What injury is it to hear words ? For the most excellent contrivances are first framed in the mind, then thoughts instruct the tongue to utter them by words. Thou didst beget him, so that it is not justice for you to repay ill to him, although his deeds to you were most im- pious and vile. But admit him, for others have had bad children, and anger as fierce hath raged in other breasts, yet, moved by the intreaties of their friends they have been quite overcome. But thou, regard not thy father and mother's injuries, for which you have suffered, if you pass them by, yet I am sure you will discern how destructive is the event of vile anger, for you have a sad evidence of this, too plain to be disputed, that you are deprived of your eyes. But, comply with us, for those who make but just demands should not be forced earnest- ly to intreat, nor should yourself be well treated, and not know how to repay the kindness. Oed. My child, your speeches overcome me by an uneasy pleasure, but let it be as it pleaseth thee ; only, stranger, if he comes hither, let none over- come me. The. It is enough I hear you speak once, I will, OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 27| not boast, but know you will be safe if the gods preserve me. Epodica Strophe. Cho, Whosoever desires more than a moderate share of Hfe, he, in my judgment, but indulgeth his folly, since a long series of succeeding days doth only serve to multiply misfortunes. It is not possi- ble for him to see delight who grasps at more than is convenient ; whose desire is not perfectly accom- plished before death comes ; when unmarried des- tiny uncelebrated in choirs, and final death appears. Antistrophe. Not to be bom at all overcomes all arguments for life ; but since he is born to return thither whence he came as soon as possible, merits the second praise. For when we are arrived at youthful years, attended with vain desires, who can escape many sorrows ? Who is not immersed in troubles, murders, seditions, strifes, quarrels, and envies? Then de- tested, final, infirm, morose, and unfriendly old age oppresseth us, that we are plunged in number- less evils. Epode. Wherein I unhappy man am not alone tormented ; for, as the northern shore on every side is battered by the winter waves, so terrible and tempestuous storms of fate and perpetual evils always torment Oedipus, some from the rising of the sun, some from the setting, others from the '^dark Riphaean mountains. ^ Dark Riphcean mountains.] They are called dark, because they lie westward where the day closeth and niejht comes hi. 272 QEDIPUS COLONEUS. ACT IV. SCENE I. Antigone, Oedipus. Ant. And now this stranger comes alone to U8. and from his eyes dischargeth floods of tears. Oed. Who is he? Ant. Polynices is here hard by, according as my ;mind presaged. ACT IV. SCENE II. Polynices, Antigone, Oedipus, Chorus. Pol ^ Woe is me! what shall I do? Whether, O children, shall I first mom-n my o\pi evils, or my father's, of which my eyes are witnesses, whom on a strange land I have found with you here exposed, with such a habit in which a filthiness appears that testifies thy wretched state ? But on thy yet more wretched head deprived of eyes, thy hair is exposed to the injuries of wind and sun ; and, as it seems, the food which he eats is like the habit which he wears. This I a miserable wretch too lately learn- ed, and declare, that though the worst of men, I came out of care for your preservation, lest you should see your evils still increasing. But reverence stands at the throne of Jove in all deeds which are done there, and before thee, father, should it stand Hkewise ; for there are remedies for offences, but no defence. Why art thou silent? Speak something, father, turn not away from me. Will you not an- swer me any thing? But, in contempt, send me ' Woe is me! what shall I do?] Observe the cunning of Poly- nices, who dolh not begin with a request, but to get favour of bis father seems first to pity his miseries. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 273 away without speaking, nor speak why you are angry ? O children of this man, but my sisters, try but to move my father's morose and inaffable aspect, lest answering never a word he sends me away dis- honoured, and a suppliant of Neptune. Ant. But speak thou wretch, on what account thou art here, for many words causing pleasure or offence, or exciting our pity, even extort speech from the dumb. PoL I will speak, for well thou admonishest me ; first, calling the god to my assistance, from whom the governor of this land hath encouraged me to come hither, granting me liberty to speak and hear, with leave in safety to depart hence ; and the same leave would I obtain from you strangers, from my sisters, and father. But why I come, I will tell thee, father ; I am expelled my native country as a fugitive, because I thought fit I should sit in your all-governing throne, being the elder. Wherefore Eteocles, the younger, drove me from my country, nor overcame me with arguments, nor came to proof of hands or deeds, but by persuading the city, of which evils I think your fury persecuting me is chiefly the cause ; for afterwards I heard the same from the prophets. But when I came to Doric Argos, bringing Adrastus, my father-in-law, I join- ed to myself some sworn friends, who are called the chief of the distant land, and are much honoured for their skill in war ; that, assembling my forces with sev€n leaders against Thebes, I might either die in the cause of justice, or cast out of the land those who did these things. But let this pass, I will speak why I am come, I address my suppliant prayers to you and those of my allies in war ; who now with seven ranks, and seven files of spears, surround the Theban country, as warlike Amphia- raus, who bears the prize in war, and the art of soothsaying ; the second is iEteolus Tydeus, the son 274 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. of -^neus; the third, Eteodus, an Argive; the fourth, Hippomedon, his father Talaus sent; the fifth, Capaneus boasts that he will quickly waste with destruction the city of Thebes; the sixth is Parthenopaeus Areas, being named from his mother, who was before a virgin, the faithful son of Atalus. I yours, though not yours, but son of ill-fortune, but called yours, do lead an intrepid army from Argos against Thebes. We all beseech you, for your children's sake, and their safety, praying you to quit your grievous anger against me, who am hasting the punishment of my brother, who expelled me and deprived me of my kingdom : lor, if there be any faith in oracles, to whom thou art joined, to those it is said the victory should belong. Now, I beseech you, ' by the fountains which yield refresh- ing draughts, and by our kindred gods, to yield to me, and quit your anger, for we are beggars and strangers ; and thou a stranger, and live here flat- teiing others, thou and I having had the same for- tune.. But he reigning supreme in the royal palace, (woe is me!) sporting himself with our miseries, lives delicately, whom, if you agree to my mind, with little pride and as little labour, I will destroy. So I will lead thee back again, and place thee in thy palace myself, casting him out by force. And this, if you agree with me, I may boast that I will per- form ; but without you I have no hope of safety. Cho. Answer this man what is convenient, for the sake of him who sent him, then send him back again. Oed. But unless the governor of this land had sent him to me, desiring me to hear his words, he had never heard my voice; but now since he is thought worthy by Theseus, he shall go hence, first ' By the fountains, <5rc.] As though he adjured him by the waters which nourished him, saith the Scholiast. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 275 hearing from me such things as will not cheer him. When thou, base man, didst possess the sceptre and throne, (which thy brother now possesseth in Thebes,) thyself didst drive out thy father, and made me an exile, and to wear those garments which now thou weepest to see, because thou art in the same affliction with me. This is not the object of my grief, but of my patience, that I may live in remem- brance of thee, a parricide. For thou hast made me accustomed to those misfortunes ; thou hast expelled me, it is through thee I wander, so that I am forced to ask of others my daily food. And unless I had begat those two daughters for my nurses, I had not still been, as to thy part ; but now they preserve me, they are my nurses, they are men, not women, in bearing part of my sufferings ; but thou art begotten of another, and not of me. Wherefore, though no god yet lets loose his vengeance against thee, it will not be long, if these troops move towards the city of Thebes ; for you will have no reason to boast your overthrowing that city, but first shall fall all stained with blood, and your brother likewise ; for so the curses import which I before pronounced against you ; and now I likewise implore the same curses against you, that you may learn to revere your pa- rents, and may not dishonour your blind father, be- cause you were begotten of such. These did not so, wherefore your throne and kingdom they will possess, if the anciently celebrated vengeance sits on Jove's throne, according to the laws. But thou begone, contemptible wretch, and forsaken of me ; 'taking with thee these curses which I call for * Taking with thee these curses.l The Scholiast tells us, that the reason of Oedipus's laying these curses on his children was as follows: it being the usual custom with them from every sacrifice to send Oedipus a shoulder, they, through negligence or forgetful- ness, sent him a tlii^h ; in which, tJiinking himself despised, like a T 2 276 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. against you. May you neither possess your father's;* country by war, nor return to Argos, but die with your brothers hand, and kill him by whom you were expelled. Such imprecations I pronounce, and call against you the hated darkness of hell that it may give you room; and I invocate these goddesses, and the god of war, to send mortal hatred between you. Now, having heard these things, be gone, and tell all the Thebans, and your friends likewise, and faithful comrades, what gifts Oedipus hath distributed to his sons. Cho, O Polynices, I do not congratulate your arrival here ; now return back with all speed. Pol. Woe to my coming! woe to my companions! unhappy hour in which I came from Argos. Un- happy I whom none of my companions may speak to, nor may I return again but without speaking ! I perish in this ^^ondition! O sisters, daughters of Oedipus, since you have heard the terrible things which my father hath imprecated, do not, by the gods, those imprecations relate to you? For which of you thinks to return home? Do not dishonour me, but place me in my sepulchre, and perform my obsequies ; and this present praise which you receive for those good offices you pay my father, will still be amplified by your kind assistance to me. Ant, O Polynices ! I beseech you yield to this my one request. Pol. Dear sister, what is it? Speak. Ant. Lead back your army with all speed to Argos, and do not destroy thyself and the city. Pol. But that is not possible, for how can I as- semble again the same army if once I flee ? Ant. Why should you again be angry ? Or what j)assioijate and rash man as he was, he cursed them, wishing they might slay one another, which came to pass accordingly. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 277 advantage will accme to you from the destruction of your country ? PoL It is base to flee, and that I, being the elder, should be so ridiculed by my brother. Ant. Thou seest his prophecies, how plain he utters them, who pronounces certain death to you both. Pol. My brother demands what I can never grant. Ant. Woe is me, a wretch ! who will dare to fol- low you, hearing what he hath prophesied ? Pol. I will not bring back ill news, since it be- longs to a good commander to speak the best, and not to say any thing terrible. Ant. Are you thus determined ? Pol. Do not detain me, but this expedition will be my care, though unfortunate and crossed by rea- son of my father and his curses. But may Jove prosper you if you will pay me your last offices being dead, since you can no more assist me alive. But let me now go, and fare you w ell, for hereafter you shall never see me more alive. Ant. O miserable! Pol. Do not bewailme. Ant. Who would not bewail you, brother, rush- ing upon death? Pol. If I must, I will die. Ant. Do not, but yield to me. Pol. Counsel not what is not fitting. A7it. O wretched me, if I am deprived of you! Pol. It is in the power of God to be born to this or that fortune, but I pray for you never to fall into troubles ; for you are unworthy every w ay to be unfortunate. ACT IV. SCENE III. Strophe I. Chorus, Oedipus, Antigone. Cho. New and unfortunate evils have happened 278 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. to me from that miserable stranger, unless they are what fate decrees must happen ; for I will not speak rashly of what the gods decree. Time sees and disposes all things increasing mischief upon others. "The air thundered, O Jove. [Thunder heard. Oed. My children, will any of the inhabitants bring me hither good Theseus? Ant. Wliat design is it for which you call him ? this swift thunder will quickly send me to the dead; but send as quick as may be. [Thunder. ACT lY. SCENE IV. Antistrophe I. Chorus, Oedipus. Cho. Behold another hideous thunder rends the sky, an unutterable sound sent by Jove, and fear causeth my hair to stand erected. Celestial light- ning flashes again. What end will it produce? I fear the event, for it comes not in vain, nor without some dire portent. O great sky! O Jove! Oed. O children! the fatal period of my life ap- proaches, and there is no escape. Cho. How kno west thou that? What ground hast thou for that conjecture? Oed. I know too well ; but as quick as may be, let some one go and conduct the king of this coun- try to me. vStrophe II. Cho. Alas ! alas ! behold again an immense thun- " The air thundered^ O Jove!'] As Oedipus had said before there would be signs of his death, either thunder, or lightning, or earthquake ; so now, while the Chorus speaks, thunder is heard, as a token of his approaching death. In the unravelling of this plot there is a mechanism used, which is equal with that of the descent of a god ; for this storm, which is sent by Jove, supplieth the place of his personal appearance. See the notes upon Ajax, Act I. Scene I. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. der, sent by Jove, roars all around. Be favourabu Jove, be favourable. If thou art come to bring ad- versity upon the earth, may happiness be my lot ; nor, because I have seen this miserable man, let me sustain a loss where thanks are due. O Jove, I in- voke thee. Cho. What matter of secrecy would you commit to his breast ? Oed. For the benefits I have rieceived, I would render him due thanks, as I promised. Antistrophe II. Cho. Ho ; son, approach, if upon the utmost shore of Neptune, the sea-god, you worship the sacred altar on which oxen are slain, come ; for this stranger resolves to render due thanks to you, this city, and his friends, for the good turns he received. Make haste, my lord. Fly. ACT V. SCENE I. Theseus, Oedipus, Chorus. Thes. What noise is this again among you that echoes to my ears ? the voice is yours, I know, and it is plainly for the stranger s sake. Hath not the thunderbolt of Jove or rain fallen? for all things, when the god thus raiseth tempests, are to be dreaded. Oed. But is Theseus near ? Will he find me alive and in my senses ? Cho. My lord, thy coming answers to our wish ; and some god granted you the happy fortune to come now. Thes. What new thing is this, son of Laius ? Oed. This is the last moment of my life, and of what I have promised I would not defiaud you and this city. 280 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Thes. On what certain sign of death dost thou depend ? Oed. The gods themselves, who are never false, declare it me by certain signs. Thes. How sayest thou, old man, these things are declared ? Oed, By many continual thunderings, and many thunderbolts hurled from the invincible hand of Jove. Thes, Thou prevailest upon me, for I see thee utter many unerring prophecies. Teach what is to be done. Oed, I will teach thee, son of iEgeus, things which are perpetually to be established to thee and this city. I will myself lead presently to the place, without a guide, where I must die ; " but tell not that to any man, nor where my body is, for that place will supply to you the strength of many spears against the foreign arms of the Thebans ; but sacred words and unutterable, thyself shalt know, when thou comest thither alone. I would not mention them to any of the citizens, nor to my children, though I love them; and, when thou approachest the end of thy life, declare them only to one, the most excellent man, and let him always declare them to the next succeeding : so shalt thou always inhabit this city, invincible by Theban power. For innumerable cities, where first only justice reigned, have often become unjust; but, the gods, though late, will surely punish the crimes of such, who, for- saking the ways of piety and justice, follow the dic- tates of an unruly will. But thou, son of ^geus, let not that be thy case ; and this I tell thee, which is no more than thou knowest already. But let us ^ ^ut tell not that, S^c.'] His design was, in laying this charge on Theseus, that he concealing the thing from all but one, as his eldest son, to whom he is to reveal it, and he to his, and so for succeeding generations, it might ever be a defence of the Thebans against the Athenians, OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 281 go to the place, for the present decree of the gods urgeth me, nor need we dread the danger. My children, follow this way, I am now become your guide, as you were before your father s. Be gone, touch me not, but suffer me to find out the sacred tomb where it is my lot to be interred. Go here, lead me here, Mercury, my guide, leads me here, and the infernal goddess. Oh ! my dark light, now where art thou ? my body now forsakes thee ; now I go to breathe out in the grave my last vital breath. But thou, most loved stranger, thou and this country, and thy servants, may you be happy in your poste- rity, remembering me when dead, and may you be ever fortunate. ACT V. SCENE II. Chorus, If it be lawful for me to worship thee, O ^ invisi- ble goddess, and thee, O Pluto, king of the dead, with prayers I beseech you that this stranger may reach the all-concealing regions of the dead and the Stygian shore, neither with a laborious or a dolorous death : for, since many evils came upon thee wrong- fully, may the just god in return bless thee. O sub- terraneous goddesses, and thee, ^ invincible beast, who (as fame reports) dost lie in the well-fortified gates and barkest from the caves of the dead, invin- y Invisible goddess.] i, e. Proserpine. * Invincible beast.] Gr. o-w/xar' aviy.jjra ^n^oq, body of the invin- cible beast, i. e. Cerberus ; he is feigned to be the porter of hell, and is called by Horace, Bellua Centiceps, lib. ii. od. 13. ^n. vi. V. 417. Plutonis canem cerea voce, quinquaginta Capitum, "A^a T^iK^oivov a-ycv'ha.y.oi,. In the Trachiniae, his office is to assign out the places of the dead; the fiction of his three heads is, because all men die one of these three kinds of deaths, either natural, vio- lent, or accidental. 282 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. cible porter among the ghosts below, and thee, O son of earth and hell, I beseech, for this stranger, that he may descend quietly to the inferior regions of the dead; ^and thee likewise I invocate, thou ever-sleeping death. ACT V. SCENE III. Messenger, Chorus. Mess. O citizens, in short I tell you Oedipus is dead; but what is done speech cannot in short de- clare, nor how things there were acted. Cho. Is the wretch dead? Mess, Know that he hath forsaken his tedious life. Cho. How, by a gentle accident caused by divine power? Mess. It is much to be admired, for how he went hence, by none of his friends led, thou who wast present knowest ; but when he came to a steep way, paved on the ground with brazen steps, he stood in one way which concurred with many near a hollow sink, where lie ''the faithful pledges of Pirithous and Theseus. Standing between which place and the Thracian rock, and hollow Acherdus, he sat on * And thee likewise /, S^cl The Chorus iuvocates death as the last of all the infernal deities for an easy death for Oedipus. ^ The faithful pledges, d^cl Plutarch, in the life of Theseus, tells us, that there was a strict friendship between him and Piri- thous, whom, being in love with Proserpine, he took with him to hell to bring her from thence. But, upon his return, when he would likewise have brought him back, they were parted by an earthquake, and Pirithous was detained, where he is bound with chains. — Amatorem trecentce Pirithoum cohibent cateneB. Hor. But it is not certain that this was the place. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 283 a stone sepulchre ; then he put off his filthy gar- ments, then called to his children and commanded them to bring him 'washings of flowing water; who going into a high hill w here stood a ^ temple sacred to Ceres, in a short time perform the commands of their father : they adorned him w ith garments, and washed his body, as is usual. But when he had the pleasure of having every thing done, and no slack- ness appeared, Jove thundered; but the virgins trembled when they heard it, and, falling down be- fore their father's knees, wept, nor ceased from beating their breasts, and tedious lamentations. But he hearing their sorrowful voice, folding his arms round them said, O children, this day you have no more a father ; all things to me are nothing, nor shall you take any more anxious care for me, which I know was hard to you. But one word only easeth you of all those cares ; there is no man which had more love for you than I, deprived of w horn you will lead the remaining part of your life. Dividing such things among each other, all sadly wept; but when they made an end of their mourning, and there was no more clamour heard, a profound silence succeed- ed, and suddenly a voice called him, which caused all people's hair to stand upright with fear. God's * Washings of flowing water.'] After the body of the person doomed to die was washed, the next thing was to anoint it, and then it was adorned with a rich and splendid garment. Hence we find Socrates washed himself before he took the fatal draught, and Apollodorus brought him a cloak with a garment of great value, it being the philosopher's own desire to prepare himself for his fune- ral before he died. But ordinarily this, and almost all offices for the dead were performed by their nearest relations ; in conformity to which custom, Oedipus prepares himself for his funeral by washing and adorning his body. ^ Temple sacred to Ceres,] Gr. Iv^Xoa A^/x»3lgo?, flourishing Ceres. She hath this epithet by reason of the greenness of gar- dens over which she is supposed to preside; she had a temple in the Acropolis, and her sacrifice was a ram generally oflfered on the sixth day of Thargelion. 284 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. voice called him much every where, * O thou Oedi- pus, why do we not depart ? thou hast caused much delay. When he understood he was called by God, he bids king Theseus come to him, and when he came, he said, beloved friend give me thy hand, the pledge of friendship to my children ; and children, give yours to him ; and promise you will never be- tray them willingly, but Miat thou wilt do always what thou thinkest is convenient for them. Then he, as a generous man, not out of pity but his noble mind, promised by oath to execute the stranger's will: but, when he had done this, presently Oedipus touching his children with his feeble hands, says, O children, you must with courageous minds depart these places, nor desire to see what is not lawful to be seen, nor hear what is not to be heard. Begone, therefore, with all speed, but let Theseus come and know what is to be done. These things we all heard him speak. Then, dissolved in tears we fol- low with the maids ; but when in a short time we returned, we saw the man no where, but the king covering his eyes, having his hands up to his head, as if some new terrible object were in view not to be seen. After that, in a short time we see him wor- shipping the earth and Olympus, the seat of the gods, in the same prayer : but by what fate he fell no mortal could declare, but Theseus ; for, neither the fire-bearing thunderbolt of Jove killed him, nor waves of the sea then raised by storms, but either some messenger of the gods, or a gentle gradual opening of the earth, caused by the infernal gods. For the man, without one tear free from the power of consuming disease, was snatched away: but, if there be some strange man who will not credit my ® O thou Oedipus, why do we.] The contrivance of the poet is admirable here, in representing to the mind what'cannot easily be expressed in words, i. e. the strange and surprising manner in which Oedipus was taken away. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 285 report, I will not assent to him to whom I seem to be mistaken. Cho. Where are his children and friends who ac- companied him ? Mess. They are not far off, for their shrill voices of lamentation discover their approach. ACT V. SCENE IV. Antigone, Chorus, Ismene. Afit. Alas, alas ! now it is time for us greatly to lament the loss of our dear father, for whom before we endured much labour. At last unutterable sor- rows, which om- eyes have witnessed, overwhelm us. Cho, What are they ? Ant. My friends, beyond compare. Cho. Is he dead? Ant. If any wished for Oedipus's death, the fates have granted his desire. Cho. What his, whom neither war nor sea oppo- sed, but the plain earth invisible seized bv an obscure fate! Aiit. O wretched me, destructive night hath over- cast our eyes! Shall we, wandering in some foreign land, or on the wide roaring sea, lead our sad lives ? Is77i. I know not ; may cruel Pluto seize me that I may die with my old father ; for I have no desire of longer life. Cho. O thou two best of children, what God hath ordained ought patiently to be borne. Let not your grief overcome you so ; your condition is not so much to be complained of. Ant. There is some desire of evil, for that which is no way pleasing was pleasing when we possessed it. O, my father, thou art involved in perpetual darkness beneath the earth ; though an old man, to me thou wast beloved, and still with me thy memory shall be precious. 286 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Cho. He hath ended his life. Ant. As he desired to do. Cho, How? Ant. On a strange land, as he desired, he hath for ever his dark bed beneath the earth. Nor did he die unlamented, for this my weeping eye forever will lament thee, father ; nor is it in the power of time to banish from my breast such grief. Woe is me ! thou shouldst not have died on a strange land, but thou didst die here forsaken. Antistrophe n. Ism. Woe is me ! What fortune waits me here poor and forsaken, and thee, my sister, deserted of our father ? Cho. But since he happily unished the term of his years, cease ftom grief; for ijone is free from evils. Ant. Sister, let us be gone. Ism. To do what? Ant. A desire possesses me. Ism. What? Ant. To see the subterranean house. Ism. Of whom ? Ant. Of my father. O wretched I ! Ism. How is that lawful? Dost thou not see? Ant. Why dost thou^ reprimand ? Ism. And now. Ant. What, again? Ism. He died without sepulchre, separate from any man— Ant. Lead me, and kill me there. Ism. Ah, unhappy I ; where, therefore, shall I wander, and, forsaken, lead my life? Cho. Fear nothing, friends. Ant. But whither shall I flee? Cho. Before you fled that no ill should happen to you. Ant. I think. OEDIPUS COLONEUS. 287 Cho. What dost thou think ? Ant. I know not how we shall get home. Cho. Inquire not that : sorrow hath overwhelmed thee. Ant. Much before, now beyond measure. Cho. You are plunged in wide seas of woe. Ant. Great and unfathomable. Cho. And that I likewise affirm. Ant. Alas! alas! whither shall we go? O, Jove, to what small hope hast thou reduced me? Cho. Cease, virgins, from these lamentations; for those, to whom desired death hath happened, we ought not to lament ; it is a fault. Ant. Son of jEgeus, we adore thee. Thes. What would you have me to gTant you ? Ant. ^ We would see our father's tomb. Thes. But the liberty is denied you of going thither. Ant. What sayest thou, king of the Athenians ? Thes. Children, he forbad me either to approach to these places, or to tell any mortal of the sacred tomb which covers him ; which command, if I obeyed, he said that I should forever rule this land, secure from ill ; and this your God hath heard, and the oath of Jove, which hears all things. Ant. If then this be according to his will it suf- ficeth us, but send us to the ^ Theban city, that we prevent the ruin which threatens our brothers. ^ We would see our father's tomb.] Probably her design in de- siring to see the sepulchre was that she might weep over it, which is customary with her sex after the death of their friends, and agrees with the tenderness of their nature. * £ Theban city.] Gr. ©-^^a? 'nfu^is?, i. e. Ogygian Thebes, so called from Ogyges, or Ogygus, the most ancient king of Thebes, who repaired and beautified that city. He is said to have been contemporary with the patriarch Jacob, but Hieronymus brings him down to Moses's time. See Dr. Potter's x\rchaeoi. Graeca on the word 'fiyvfto?, vol. i. p. 25. 288 OEDIPUS COLONEUS. Thes. That I will do, and whatsoever else I can, to favour you and him who is lately deceased and lies in his grave ; I ought not to be tired by doing well. Cho. But cease, nor repeat again your lamenta- tion ; for all those things were pre-ordained by a divine decree. THE TRACHINI^. Bvamaii^ llet0onae. Hyllus. LiCHAS. A Messenger. An old Man who followed Hercules from Eiiboea. Hercules. WOMEN. Deianira. Her Companion or Tutoress. A Nurse, Maid to Deianira. Chorus of Trachinian Ladies. SCENE—Before Ceyx's Palace in Trachiiu THE TRACHINIiE. The Argument. — This Tragedy hath its title from the young ladies of Trachis, Trachin, or Trachinia, which composed tTie Chorus. It is a small counti^y in Phthiotis, one of the four parts of Thessaly, where Ceyx was king. There Hercules ba- nished himself voluntarily, for the murder of Eunomaus, kinsman to his host, and father in-law to Oeneus. When he came to the river Evenus, with Deianira, his wife, A^essus, the Centaur, carried Deianira over ; and, having so done, attempted to lavish her. At which Hercules, enraged, shot him with his arrow, poisoned with the blood of the monster Hydra. Nessus, expiring by his wound, told Deianira, that if she f^would preserve his blood, and dip therein a garment for Hercules, it would for ever attract his love to her from all other women. The credulons Deianira believed the Centaur, and soon found oc- casion to use this philtre. For Hercules, captivated with the love of lole, daughter of Eurytus, king of Oechalia, and being denied her by Eurytus ; to revenge the affiant, feigned some trifling pretence to wage war against him, in which he destroyed Oechalia, put him and his sons to the sword, and brought away lole. Deianira, perceiving that she was like to be rivalled in the love of Hercules, sent him a garment dipped in the Centaur's blood, by the herald Lichas, to Cenceum, a promontory in Euboea, where Hercules was preparing to sacrifice to Jupiter Cenaus, for his happy success in the war. Hercules received the garment joy- fully ; but, when the poison began to work, immediately it stuck so to his flesh that it could not be parted from it. Then succeeded violent convulsions, tearing his flesh and bones, and other sad effects of the poison. In this condition he is brought to Trachinia, where Deianira, hearing the sad news, stabbed herself ; and Hercules, having left a strict command with his son, Hyllus, to marry lole, was burnt on a pile, made for that purpose, on mount Oeta. ACT I. SCENE I. Deianira, Tutoress, Hyllus. Dei. It is an ancient saying famous among men, that ^ we can judge of no man's life, whether it hath been happy or miserable, before he dies ; but I know mine to be sad and unfortunate before I reach my grave, who, living in my father Oeneus's house, in ^ Pleuron, suffered more grievous trouble on account of my marriage than any jEtolian lady : for a river was my suitor, AcheloUs I mean, who in his three shapes desired me of my father ; now as he walked ' he plainly seemed a bull, anotheir time a twisted * We can judge of no man*s life.] This saying vrd% spoken by Solon to Croesus, king of Lydia, who, shewing Solon all his wealth and soldiers in golden armour, and the golden altar of Apollo, asked him, who of all men he thought happier than he: Solon answered, that Cleobis and Biton were. At which the king grieved, asked whom he thought next in happiness, but still Solon answered another. The king growing more and more uneasy, Solon told him, that a man ought to wait until the last day of his life, before he can tell whether it be happy or miserable. For, added he, the time will come when thou shall wage war against the Persians, and shalt be sacrificed to their god. Accordingly, being overcome by Cyrus, he was thrown into the fire. While he was burning, he cried out, Solon, Solon ; wherefore a shower sent by Apollo put out the fire. Cyrus asked him the reason of that ex- clamation, who told him the words of Solon; at which Cyrus wondering, dismissed him, and made him his counsellor. ^ Pleuron.] OrPleuroue: it is a city in ^tolia, a part of Greece. ^ He plainly seemed a hull.] All rivers by the ancients were compared to bulls, by reason of the violence of their streams, and roaring noise caused by the waters dashing against the rocks or banks. Hor. lib. iv. od. 14. Sic tauri/oimis volvitur Aujidus. Or els€ because they divide and tear the earth as bulls ; or, lastly, because of tlie fertile pastures near the sides of rivers. u 2 292 THE TRACHINIi*:. spotted dragon, another time in human shape with a bull's head : *^ for, from his hairy beard, floods of foimtain water flow, and wretched I, expecting such a wooer, ever prayed to die, rather than approach his bed. But after a long time, yet, to my great satisfaction at last, came the famous son of Jove and Alcmena, who engaging with him in a combat, set me free. I cannot speak the manner of the conflict, for I know it not ; if any fearless of the spectacle sat by, he may tell; for I was amazed with fear, lest my beauty at last should cause my grief At last Jupi- ter, the governor of combats, ordered it well (if well it be) for enjoying the profered bed of Hercules, 1 am ever tormen ed with succeeding fears, and ever solicitous for his welfare. In the same night that I receive him, he departs again, one labour still suc- ceeding another; and I have home children, whom he, as a husbandman taking a far distant field, seeth * only in seed-time, and once in harvest. Such a life leads my lord, still coming home, and still returning ^ to serve I know not whom ; and, when he is victor in any combat, then chiefly I dread, for since he ^ For from his hairy beard.] There is an image in Virgil like this, where he speaks of Atlas changed by Perseus into a moun- tain of that name, ^neid iv. v. 250. tumjlumina mento Prctcipitant senis, et glacie riget horrida harha. « To serve I know not whom,] She means Eurystheus, king of Mycense; for, before he and Hercules were born, fate had decreed that he who should be born last must serve the other. Juno, therefore, being step-mother to Hercules, and hating him, caused him to be born last; wherefore he was subject to Eurystheus, and by him sent upon many laborious expeditions, too tedious here to mention. Virgil charges all his labours upon the unkindness of Juno. iEneid viii. v. 291. Ut duros mille labor es Rege sub EurystheOy fatis Junonis iniquct, Pertulit. ' THE TRACHINIi^. 293 took the life of Iphitus, we live here in Trachin, €xiles ^ with a foreign king. *But none knows where he is gone, yet hath he left me in sad sorrows for him ; and 1 almost knoAV he hath received some mis- chief, for it is not a little while, but these ten months and five more, he hath continued absent without sending any message of his return. There is some sad mischief happened to him. He went away, leaving me ^ such a roll, which I often pray to the gods I received of him without any harm. Tut. O my lady Deianira, I have seen you lament the departure of Hercules with sorrowful sad lamen- tations ; but now, if it be just for those in bondage to admonish the free, and it becomes me to speak so far, how comes it you abound with so many children, but send none in search of thy husband, but chiefly Hyllus, whom it is fit should go, if he hath any care for his father's safety? But now in season he comes home, wherefore if you think I speak in season, now is the time to make use of his help, and my counsel. AQT I. SCENE H. Deianira^ Hyllus, Tutoress, Dei. O son! good speeches even from the mouths of the ignoble happen well ; for this woman, though a servant, yet hath spoken what might become one who is free. ^ With a foreign king.] i. e. Ceyx. Thus Hesiod, s Such a roll.] Hercules, at his departure, left with liis wife a tablet, wherein it was written, that if he returned not within fifteen months, she might know that he was dead. 294 THE TRACHINI^. Hyl. What? tell me, mother, if it be ought I may hear with decency. Dei. That it is a shame for you, your father being so long- a stranger,' not to inquire where he is. Hyl. But I know, if one may believe rumours. JDei. In what part of the earth, my son, do you hear he stays ? Hyl. They say, that, for more than this whole year past, he hath served a woman of Lydia. Dei. If it were so that he hath suffered this bond- age, some might have heard it all. Hyl. But he is freed from thence, as I hear. Dei. Where is he, therefore, now reported to be ahve or dead ? Hyl. They say he hath undertaken an expedition against the land of Eubcea, and city of Eurytus, or is about it. Dei. But dost thou know, my son, that he left me some certain oracles concerning that country ? Hyl. What, mother ; I know not a word. Dei. That he must either end his life, or overcome in this trial, and for the future in happiness lead the remaining part of his life : wherefore, my son, now in the very precipice of fate, wilt thou not go and help thy father? since we shall be safe or fall, but as he perishes or preserves his life, we will go toge- ther. Hyl. I go, mother, and if I had known the report of the oracle, long since I had been with him : his accustomed success suffers us not to fear, or be much concerned for him : now, since I know it, no- thing I will omit, but search out the whole truth in this affair. Dei. Go now, my son ; for to do well, though late, when he is admonished, brings advantage.. THE TRACHINI^. 295 ACT I. SCENE III. Chorus, Deianira. Strophe I. Cho. O thou to whose empire the starry night gives place, but whom, when returned, she conceals in the dark womb, bright ruler of the day, the sun, I thee invoke to declare this to me, where the son of Alcmena abides. O bright burning flame, is he quartered on the islands near the sea, or between the eastern and the western continent? Speak, O thou who excellest in seeing. Antistrophe I. For I hear that Deianira with a longing mind for Hercules, and driven alternately from hope to fear, ^' as the miserable bird, never composeth to sleep her weeping eyes: but mindful of her lord, dreads his journey, and, pining away, thinks of her widowed bed, expecting some sad fate. Strophe II. As one seeth in the broad sea many waves ebbing and flowing, driven by the unwearied south-Avest and north wind; so is Theban born Hercules, brought up and exercised in many evils, as the Cre- tan sea is tossed : but still some of the gods keep him, being unblameable, from the mansions of the dead. Antistrophe II. Therefore I will blame thee, and speak words ^ As the miserable bird.] Gr. ci^Xiov o^ni/, i. e. the swallow. See the notes on Electra, Act I. Scene II. If yoij read aAtov o^hv, then it is a halcyon, which hatcheth her young in the rocks near the sea, and weeps when they are flown, and her eggs gone. The comparison of Deianira to either of them is not improper. 296 THE TRACHINIjE. which shall be pleasing, though contrary to what you would speak; for I say you ought not to lay aside good hope: nor hath king Jove, who governs all things, given ought to men without pain, but grief and joy encircling flows on all as uncertainly as the paths of Arc turns. Epqde. For neither doth the staiTy night remain with men, nor the fates, nor riches ; but suddenly they are gone: to me it is allotted both to rejoice and be again deprived of joy. Which things I say, O queen, ought to support you in hopes ; for who thus ever saw Jove void of care for his children? Dei. Thou seemest to have heard my affliction, and therefore art come to me ; but how I suffer, and how my soul languishes, thou knowest not, but still art ignorant : for ' youth is fed in its own pastures, nor doth the fire of the god, (i. e. love,) nor rain, nor winds disturb them : but in pleasure chooseth a life free from trouble, until any instead of maid is called the youth's wife, and in the night partakes of his cares, fearing for her husband or her children; then may she understand, seeing her own manner of life, with what ills I am oppressed. For many suflierings 1 have lamented, but one such as never before, I shall mention: when Hercules, my king, went forth upon his last journey from home, then he there left an ancient written tablet, inscribed with certain tes- taments, which before, though he went out to many combats, he never mentioned to me ; but went out ^ Youth is fed in its own pastures.^ Nothing disturbs youth, but as a mighty wall it stands unhurt, nor feels the ills which others suffer who are married. Horace makes the like comparison of his mistress, Lyde : QucE, velut latis equa trima campis, Ludit exultim, metuit que tangly Nuptiarum expers, Sfc, THE TRACHINIiE. 297 as to perform some exploit, not to die : but now, as though he were no more, he bid me take my share of wealth for a second bed, and mentioned what share of their father's land he divided to his chil- dren; and appointing a year and three months time to be absent from his country, said, he must either die in that time, or by escaping to the end of it, lead a life free from sorrow. All this he said was what the gods decreed should come to pass concerning the labours of Hercules, as, he said, the ancient '^ beech tree, at Dodona, spoke, and the two doves. And certainly this day hath seen the accomplish- ment of this oracle, and all is past. This makes me, O my friends, in my sweet sleep trembling, start out for fear, that I must live deprived of the best of men. Cho. Good words, I pray ; for I see some man coming crowned to speak mth joy. ACT I. SCENE IV. Messenger, Deianira, Chorus. Mess, O Deianira, my queen, I, the first mes- senger, free you from fear ; for know the son of ^ Beech tree at Dodona, and the two doves.] Near Dodona, a city of Chaonia, in Epirus, there was a temple and grove of oaks and beeches consecrated to Jupiter Dodonaeus, and m it a parti- cular beech-tree, upon which two doves sate and prophesied: others say they were rather ancient priestesses, and called pigeons, by reason of the greyness of their hair: for the Molossi, of Epirus, called all ancient people grey, or iro^mq. Herodotus gives another reason why they were called doves, viz. because they being barba- rians spoke like birds. Euripides says they were three, others two, and that one of them came from Thebes to the oracle of Jupiter Amnion, in Libya, and the other to Dodona. See Dr. Potter's Arciiaeol. Graec. vol. i. p. 266, &c. 298 THE TRACHINI^. Alcmena is alive and victorious, and hath brought from the fight ^ first-fruits, worthy the gods. Dei. What speech is this, old man, thou talkest to me ? JMess, That your much-loved lord will soon ap- pear at home with a victorious army. Dei. Say est thou so ? And hast thou learnt this of citizens or strangers ? Mess. Lichas, the herald, in yon verdant pasture, declared it, and, hearing it of him, I flew, that, first telling you this pleasant news, I might both gain some reward and enjoy your favour. Dei. If he be well, why, therefore, is he absent? Mess. It is not with much pleasure to himself, my lady, for all the people of Melia standing round examine him ; nor hath he power to hasten his coming, for every one, desiring to know what they hoped for, suffered him not to go, ere they were satisfied with hearing ; and he, though unwillingly, stays with those who are desirous to keep him ; but soon thou wilt see him. Dei. O Jove, who presidest over Oeta's verdant pastures, thou hast given us joy, though after a long time ! Ye matrons, shout for joy, both you who are in your houses and who are without, for an un- hoped for light of fame is risen which I now enjoy. Epodica Strophe. Cho. Ye bachelors, let the voice of joy be heard in your houses I and ye husbands, join your voices ^ First-fruits, worthy the gods.] i.e. Spoils, perhaps, which were to be offered to Zv^v) r^oirafw, for the ancient heroes always offered up the chief and most valuable part of the spoils to the gods, to whose help they thought the victory was due. Thus, in the Philoctetes, Hercules charged that prince to offer at his altar the first-fruits of the spoils which they took from Troy, as a tribute due to him, for the assistance of his arrows in taking that city. I THE TRACHINItE. 299 in the concert ! Apollo, well armed with a quiver, the great god of Paeans. Antistrophe. Ye virgins, celebrate with hymns ! and his "" Or- tygian sister, likewise, the huntress of deers, fire- bearing Diana, and her neighbouring nymphs. O I am transported with ecstatic joy, nor will I refuse the sound of music, O sovereign of my breast. Epode. Behold, rapture disturbs me, and sends me to join the troop of Bacchanals, lo Paean ! lo Paean ! Behold, dear lady, now may you plainly see joys, contrary to your former fears. ACT II. SCENE I. Deianira, Chorus, Dei. I see, dear ladies, nor is the vigour of my eyes so far decayed that I cannot see this troop ; wherefore, joy to the herald who late appears, if he brings any good news. ACT II. SCENE II. Lie has y ivith a Train, Deianira, Messe7iger, Chorus, Lich, Well, are we come, and joyfully, speak, O lady, according, as the matter requires ; for the man who prospers ought to speak joyful words. Dei. Most loved of messengers, teach me what I " Orty^ian sister.l Ortygia is the same with Delos, the place where Diana was born and worshipped, whence she is called here 300 THE TRACHINIiE. first would know, whether I shall receive Hercules alive or not. Lick. I left him alive, strong, and in health, nor grieved with any disease. Dei. Where ; in his father's, or any barbarian land ? Speak ! Lich. There is a shore in Eubcea where he hath ^et up altars, and hath sacrificed first-fruits to " Ce- naean Jove. Dei. Is it to perforai some vows, or by decree of some oracle ? Lich. Vows : for he overcame in war the rebel- lious country of women, /which you see with your eyes. Dei. Now, by the gods, who is their rightful Iprd, and who are they ? They are miserable unless their fortunes deceive me. Lich. These he, having destroyed the city of Eurytus, took, slaves for himself, selected for the gods. Dei. Was he at this city so long time since his departure hence ? Lich. No ; but the most part of his time he spent in Lydia ; as himself says, himself not free, but sold ; nor ought you to blame that of which Jove was the author, for he, being bought by Omphale, the Barbarian, completed a year in her service, as himself says. He was so stung by that reproach, that, with an oath, he swore he would bring into bondage, with his wife and children, him who was the author of his sufferings ; nor did his words prove vain, but, when he was pure from the slaughter of Iphitus, taking an army, which he had raised on purpose, he came to the city of Eurytus ; for he ^ Cencean Jove.] Cenaeum was a promontory m Eubcea sacred to Jupiter, as, indeed, were all mountains, he being v-^k;to<; 0eo?, the supreme God, and there it was usual to sacrifice to him.# I THE TRACHINIiE. 301 said that he, of all men, was the only cause of his affliction, who, when he came to his house an old guest, provoked him w ith many reproaches, speak- ing with a malicious mind, and saying, that, though he had inevitable arrows in his hand, yet he was much ° inferior to his children, in judgment, in the art of casting darts ; and said, that, as a servant, he was afflicted by a free man. And, when he w as drunk with wine, he cast him out of the company, at which, enraged, when Iphitus came to celebrated Tu-ynthia, seeking horses among the herd, when his mind w as one way and his eyes another, he cast him down the high battlements of a tower ; and for that deed, his father, Olympian Jove, the universal king, being angry, sent him sold away, nor endured him, because he had slain by fraud only one man ; for, had he openly revenged himself, Jove had for- given him for his just revenge in punishing him ; for the gods above do not favour oppression. But the sons of Eurytus, who insulted him with reproachful language, are all now^ inhabitants with those below ; the city is in bondage, and those whom you see, who, from prosperity, lead a miserable life, come to you ; for so your lord commanded, and I, being faithful to him, perform his command. But, when he hath performed pure sacrifices to his father, Jove, for the taking the city, you w ill receive him safe, for that, after a long speech, w ell spoken, affords most pleasure to your longing ears. ° Inferior to his children.'] The Scholiast says, that Eurytus made an offer of his daughter lole to Hercules, if he overcame his sons in the art of shooting arrows. There are different opinions concerning the number of Eurytus's children ; Hesiod speaks of five, viz. A^jiwv, K^^tjo?, TofEu?, and ''Kp^oq. And, in the following verse, he mentions lole : Tuq ^s fjt,e^' o'TrXolarrtv nriado ^cta^viv 'loXstav. It is a mistake, therefore, of the Scholiast to say he mentions but four. Aristocrates mentions only three, viz. Toxeus, Clytius, iind Dei on. 302 THE TRACHINI^E. Cho. Now, queen, have you received true delight both from tliis present slate of affairs, and from the news this herald doth report. Dei. Why should I not rejoice, hearing his for- tunate success, and justly gained ? It is very fit I should rejoice with him, yet those who rightly judge of fortune's inconstancy, should fear least he who prospers at last should miscarry. For sad pity in- vades me, O my friends, seeing these miserable ladies in a strange country, absent from home, cap- tives, and bereaved of parents ; who, probably, before descended of free parents, but now lead a servile life. O Jo\e, our defender, let me never see thee turning thus thy rage against my offspring, or if you will do ought against them, let it not be while I am alive ; for so I fear you will, beholding these unhappy wretches. What youth art thou ? [jTo lole,'] Art thou a virgin or a mother ; for, as to your age, . you seem to be unskilled in all marriage affairs, and nobly born. O Lichas, whose daughter is this stranger ? who is her mother ? and who her father ? who begat her ? speak, for I pity her more than the rest, for she seems to me in wisdom to excel them all. Licit. What do I know? Why dost thou ask me? Perhaps she is bom of some who are none of the meanest of the city. Dei. Is she of royal race, the daughter of Eurytus ? Lich. I know not, nor did I much inquire. Dei, Nor have you learnt her name from any who came with her ? Lich. Not at all, for silently I did my work. Dei. Thou wretched lady, speak thyself to us ; for this is some misfortune that we know not who thou art. Lich. If now she is silent, she will do no other- wise than before ; for she hath spoken nothing yet, neither much nor little ; but ever lamenting her sad THE TRACHINItE. 303 calamities, the wretched lady wept since the time she left her father's country. This is her fortune, sad to her, so that her silence merits pardon, Dei. Let her alone, and let her go in quietly, so that her present evils may receive no more increase from these sad griefs with which my mind is oppressed ; for the present are enough. But let us all go home, and you hasten where you will, I will prepare every thing within that is convenient for the reception of my lord. [JExit Lichas, and tram. ACT II. SCENE III. Messenger, Deia?iira, Chorus. * Mess. But first stay here a little while, that you may learn whom you bring in, and what besides you never heard, and so know all that is needful ; for I have perfect knowledge of every thing. Dei. What is it ? Why do you stop my going ? Mess. Stand still and hear ; it was not in vain you listened to what I said before, nor do I think it is now. Dei. Shall we, therefore, call them again, or will you speak to these present and me? Mess. To you and these nothing hinders. But let them go. Dei. They are gone ; now let the tale be told. Mess. This man was true in nothing that he spoke, but either now he is a wicked man, or before he was no true messenger. Dei. What sayest thou ? Tell me plainly all thou knowest. For what thou hast said I know not. Mess. I heard Lichas say, many witnesses being present, that for the sake of this maid he took Eu- 304 THE TRACHINIiE. rytus, and ° Oechalia, adorned with lofty towers^ and that love only induced him to do it ; not the bondage he underwent among the Lydians, or with Omphale, or the fate of Iphitus cast down, which he pretending, speaks contrary to what he did be- fore. For, when he could not persuade her father to give him the maiden, to enjoy her secret embraces, devising a small accusation against him, and trifling reason, he made war against the country of this maid, wherein he said that Eurytus ruled the king- dom, slew the king, her father, and destroyed the city. And now, as you see, he comes home, send- ing them before, not carelessly ; nor doth he send her as a servant, think not so ; nor is it likely he should, since he is fired with the love of her. I have thought fit, O queen, to shew thee every thing which I have learnt of him ; and this many in the middle of the forum of the Trachinians heard as well as I, so that he may be disproved. But if I speak not pleasing news, I am not rejoiced at that, yet have I spoke the truth. Dei. Woe is me, a wretch ! What do I, what private mischief do I receive under my roof. Woe is me ! But was her name unknown, as that com- mander swore? Certainly she is very beautiful, both in person and disposition. Mess. She is descended of her father, Eurytus, and was called lole, nor mentioned he her pedigree ; for truly he inquired nought of it, false man ! Cho, Let not all vile wretches perish, but him, ^ Oechalia, adorned with lofty towers.] Pherecydes saitb, that Hercules came into Oechalia, a city of Arcadia, and desired lole of Eurytus, for his son, Hyllus, to wife; which request being refused, Hercules destroyed the city, and slew all his sons but Iphitus, who fled into Euboea. But Menecrates saith himself was in love with her, that Eurytus refused to yield her to him, but that he would have enjoyed her embraces, had he not been prevented by the Argians coming into Euboea. THE TRACHINIiE. 305 whosoever he be that exerciseth himself in secret frauds. Dei. What must be done, O ye virgins ? How I am amazed with these discourses ! Cho. Go and inquire of himself, who will soon declare the truth, if you will extort it from him by violence. Dei. I will, for your dissent, not from my opinion. Cho. And shall we stay here, or what must we do ? Dei. Stay, for the man, though not called by any messenger, but of his own accord comes out. ACT II. SCENE IV. Lichas, Deianira, Chorus. Lich, My queen, what must I say to Hercules ? tell me, for you see me going. Dei. Quickly depart from Trachin, unless thou wilt have me repeat again my words. Lich. If you would inquire any thing of me, I am here. Dei. Wilt thou speak the truth without disguise ? Lich. Witness, great Jove, I will, as far as I know. Dei. Then who is this lady whom thou hast brought? Lich. One of Eubcea, but I know not of whom she descended. Dei. Look here, to whom do you think you are talking ? Lich. To what purpose do you thus examine me? Dei. Now be of courage^ speak what I ask you? Lich. Aye, since it is to queen Deianira, daughter of Oeneus, wife of Hercules, (unless my eyes de- ceive me,) and my mistress. Dei. That was what I would know of thee. Dost thou own I am thy mistress ? X 306 THE TRACHINliE- LicJi. And lawfully. De«. What, therefore; what punishment do you think you deserve, if you are found unjust to me ? Lich, How unjust ? What is this you mean by your various questions ? Dei, Nothing ; but you mean very much. Licit. I go hence, I was a fool to hear thee thus long. Dei. You shall not before you tell me in short vy^hat you axe asked. Liicli. Speak what you would have, for you are not sparing of speech. Dei. Do you know that captive whom you have brought into the palace ? , Lich. I say 1 know. Why do you ask? Dei. Did not you say, that she, whom you pre- tended to be ignorant of, is lole, the daughter of Eurytus ? Lich. Unto whom ? Who will come and witness to you that he was by and heard me ? Dei. To many of the Trachinians ; and great crowds of people heard you. Lich, Aye ; did they say they heard me ? But it is not the same to speak one's opinion, and to tell w hat is certainly true. Dei. What opinion? Did you not sw^ear you brought her as the concubine of Hercules ? Lich. I said so ; by the gods, tell me, dear ma- dam, who this stranger is. Dei. He who was by, and heard you say that for the love of lole the whole city w as laid waste ; and that the Lydian woman did not destroy it, but apparently the love of her. Lich. Let this man begone ; ^ for to trifle with a sick patient is not the part of a wise physician. P For to trifle with a sick patient.] Lichas seems to speak this as a proverbial speech ; therefore, the Greek is »o^ux)^f which signifies a point of a dart, but by the figure the whole is comprehended in the part. THE TRACHINIiE. 315 dent, which no man could ever think; for I happen- ed to throw away some part of the wool which I had stained, in a place where the sun's rays were fiercest; but, as soon as it grew warm it flowed about, but how none could discern, and dries upon the ground ; which to behold was like saw-dust when wood is sawed, as it lay on the ground. From the ground where it lay, there boiled up frothy bubbles, as from rich wine in autumn poured on the ground, from Bacchus's vine ; so that I know not what to think, a wretch, for I see I have done a horrid act. For why should the dying Centaur do me an act of kind- ness, for whom he died ? it cannot be. But desiring to kill him who shot him, he flattered me, and this too late I have learnt when that knowledge is of no use. And I alone, a wretch, unless my thoughts deceive me, shall be his murderess. For I remem- ber how with his dart he wounded Chiron, and whatsoever animals it hits it kills: and why should not the black poison, mingled with the blood which issued from Nessus's wound, kill Hercules himself? It seems to me but justice, and I am resolved, if any unexpected misfortune befals him, with the same violence I will die likewise : for, to live in infamy is intolerable to me, whose care w as ever to be good. Cho. It is necessary to tremble at cruel deeds, but not to judge beforehand what hope we may have from the event. Dei. In wicked counsels there is no hope to give any encouragement. Cho. But against those who unwillingly have offended, anger is mild ; so should it be toward you. JDei. One who is partner in evil, cannot say so, but he to whom no domestic evil ever happened. Cho. It is proper for you, madam, to continue silent for a while, unless you would declare to your son all the story, for he is here, who went to seek his father. 316 THE TRACHINI^. ACT IV. SCENE II. Hyllus, Deianira, Chorus. Hyl. O mother, how could I wish one of these three things were true, that you were no more, or could be safely called the mother of some other son, or were endowed with a more honest mind. Dei. What have I done, my son, thus to deserve thy hate? Hyl. Know, that thou this day hast slain thy husband and my father. Del. Ah, me! my son, what news is this thou bringest? Hyl, Of a deed that is impossible to be undone ; for what is done, who can undo ? Dei, What sayest thou, my son? from whom didst thou hear that I should commit such a horrid act? Hyl. I myself with these eyes beheld my father's sad calamity, and heard it from his mouth. Dei. Where did you meet with him, that you know this ? Hyl. If you must know, then I must tell you all : when he departed, after destroying the famous city of Eurytus, bringing with him the spoils and trophies of victory, near the shore of Euboea there is a pro- montory, called Cenoeum, where he built up altars to his father Jove, and consecrated a green wood ; where I with pleasure first beheld him. When he was about to offer his usual sacrifice, a herald came from home, Lichas, his domestic, bearing thy gift, that fatal garment, which he putting on as you be- fore had commanded, slew whole twelve bulls, the first fruits of the spoils ; then after that brought all his hundred together, a mingled flock. At first, the wretched man with a merry mind rejoiced in his finery and his garment, and prayed for you; but, THE TRACHINIiE. 317 when the flame of the sacred victhns and gross trees was kindled, then sweat dropped from his body, and the coat stuck to his sides and all his parts, as though it were glued on by an artificer. Then suc- ceeded a convulsive tearing of his bones, then the poison of the bloody cruel viper hydra fed upon him ; then did he call unhappy Lichas, who was not guilty of your crime, and asked him by whose vile fiauds he had brought this infected garment. The wretch, ignorant of all, said it was your gift alone, aaid sent by you. As soon as Hercules heard that, tortured with pain, for he was seized with tearing of his vital members, taking hold of his foot at the place where it bends, he threw him against a rock standing out of the sea : then was his white brains, together with his blood, scattered through his hair ; his head being split. Then with a lamentable voice the people cried out, because Hercules was tortured with a disease, and Lichas slain; but none dare to oppose him. Now, did he roll along the plain; now rising, roars and bawls out, so that the rocks on every side, and ^ Locris mountain-tops and the pro- montories of Euboea echoed his voice back; but, when his strength was gone, then the miserable man throwing himself against the ground, uttered many dreadful speeches, cursing your unhappy bed, and his nuptials with the daughter of Oeneus ; whom he chose the destruction of his life. Then raising his distorted eyes from his inclosing smoke, he saw me weeping amidst the great army, and seeing me, he calls me, O my son, said he, avoid me not in my calamity, not although you should die with me ; but bear me hence, and place me there, where no man shall behold me. If thou hast any compassion, * Locris mountain-tops.] Locris is a country adjoining to Phocis, of which Ajax Oileus, was king, according to Homer: AoK^uv a r)yifA.6viViv OV^iJo? TOt^vq A'iue;. 318 T^HE TRACHINIiE. speedily bear me out of this country, lest I die here. When he had thus spoken, we placed him in a ship, and with much labour brought him roaring with convulsive pains, and presently you will see him, either aUve or newly dead. Mother, all this you have contrived against my father, for which I pray, if it be just, may great justice and his avenging fury punisli thee; but it is just, for thou hast made it so, who hast slain the best of men that ever your eyes beheld. Cho. Why dost thou silently go hence? Know you not that this silence speaks you guilty of the charge ? [Exit Deianira. Hyl. Let her go, and may the wind be fair for her departure, that I may never see her more. ^ Why should she boast a mother's name, who hath done nothing worthy of a mother? but let her go and prosper, and the same delight as she gave my father, may she enjoy. [Exit Hylhis. ACT IV. SCENE III. Antistrophica Strophe I. Chorus. Cho. ^You see, maidens, how soon the divine oracle, which was delivered in Dodona's grove, is come to pass on us, by which it was decreed, that when the twelfth year was perfected, the son of Jove should find rest from toils. All this is inevitably now come to pass ; for, how should he, who beholds no more the light, being dead, endure more this toil- some bondage ? Antistrophe. For, if love necessitated Deianira deceitfully to ^ You see, maidens, how soon.'\ Here the Chorus reason among themselves, concerning the oracle delivered about Hercules, at Dodona. THE TRACHINI^. 319 anoint a coat for Hercules with the poisonous gore of the Centaur, into whose side the arrow stuck, poisoned by death, and the spotted dragon, Hydra : how should he even see another sun, who is consu- med with the poison of the terrible monster Hydra, and the deceitful burning stings of Nessus torment- ing him likewise? Wherefore, Deianira seeing a gTeat and speedy evil threatening her house from this new marriage, partly being ignorant, and partly per- suaded by the voice of another, with pernicious arts to gain her husband's love. Surely she alone la- ments, surely she pours forth floods of tears, for the approaching fate of Hercules declares that another private evil will shortly be committed by her. Antistrophe n. Cho. A fountain of tears breaks forth; I have caught the infection. Alas ! this is such an afliiction as never happened to glorious Hercules, even from his enemies, and worthy our pity. O fatal dart with which he fought, and too soon brought a bride from lofty Oechalia, by the right of war. Yet Venus, although silent, was an assister, and evidently the cause of all. Cho. I am deceived, or I hear a general cry spread through the palace. What shall I say! somebody cries with no low voice within, but with a mournful howl. What sudden change hath hap- pened in the palace? but observe this ancient woman, who comes to tell some news, knitting her brows beyond her wonted custom. ACT V. SCENE I. Nurse, Chorus. Nur. O, daughter, how was that gift »ent to Her- cules, the beginning of mighty evils ? 320 THE TRACHINI.E. Cho. What new tale is this, old woman, which thou tellest us ? Nur. ' Deianira is gone the last of all her journeys, with feet unmoved. Cho. What is she dead ? Nur. Thou hast heard all. Cho. Is the miserable lady dead ? Nur. Thou hearest it again. Cho. Miserable, undone, wretch! But in what manner did she die ? Nur. In a most lamentable manner. Cho. Tell me by what death she expired ? Nur. She slew herself. Cho. What rage, or what disease drove her to that desperate act ? Nur. The point of a fatal sword slew her. Cho. How could she contrive thus to add one death to another? Nur. By the wound of a lamentable sword. Cho. And didst thou, simple woman, see this mischief done? Nur. I did, for I stood by. Cho. Who was it ? How ? Tell me. Nur, She acted it on herself with her own hand. Cho. What sayest thou ? Nur, What is true. Cho, Alas ! this bride, who is lately come, hath brought forth a great fury for this house. *^ Deianira is gone the last of all her journeys.^ Because death is a journey which every one must take once, and no more. Hor. lib. car. i. Od. 28. Et calcanda semel via lethi. In the last act is introduced a woman who attended upon Deianira, giving the Chorus an account of her death, and being un- willing at first to strike them with too much grief, says she is gone. Which word as it bears a two-fold sense, may be understood either of any one's moving to a place, or the soul's departing out of the body, the Chorus asks again, ^>j 'sroh' w? ^uvnacc 1 Is she dead ? THE TRACHINIiE. 321 iVi/r. Ah, too much, but chiefly if thou hadst been by, and hadst seen what she did, sadly thou would st have mourned. Cho. And could any female hand bear to do this ? Nur. Most cruel indeed it was ; and when you hear you shall attest the truth of what I say. When she alone went into the palace, and saw her son in the hall, ^ making* the funeral-bed, again to meet his father, she hid herself where none should see her ; and, falling down before the altars, cried out, that she was now forsaken ; and wept as often as she touched any of those instruments which the miserable woman used before. And, turning her- self every way about the house, if she saw any favourite of her family ; beholding him, the wretched woman wept, exclaiming against her sad fortune, crying that hereafter slie must be ever destitute of comfort and child-bearing. But, after she ceased from weeping, presently I saw her falling upon Hercules's bed. I, hiding myself, watched her with an undiscerned eye ; then did I see her on the marriage-bed of Hercules, strewing the clothes ; and having done this, she leaped upon it, sat in the middle of the bed; and, pouring forth warm floods of tears, she said, O bed, and my nuptials, fare- well for ever ! for never hereafter shall you receive me lying on these clothes. Having thus spoke, with a quick hand she loosed her garments, where a gold button covered her breast, uncovered her whole side, and her left arm. Then I ran as fast as I could, and told her son what she was meditating ; and whilst we are running here and there, we see her wounded through the heart, with a two-edged sword. Her son then wept, beholding this, for he understood, unhappy youth, that through rage she had done this ; having too late learnt of those about ^ Making the funeral-be(L] Gr. ^sy.v.a. 322 THE TRACHINIvE. the house, that, deceived by the Centaur, unwilHng- ly she had committed this crime. Then the misera- ble youth, dissolved in tears, prostrate embraced her ; and, his side joined vnth hers, lay lamenting much that, without cause, he had accused her of a crime ; lamenting, likewise, that at once he is de- prived of both father and mother. This is our present case ; so that if any reckon upon two or more future days he is a fool : nor should we re- gard what accident to-morrow will produce, but consider how we may provide for our safety the present day. ACT V. SCENE II. Chorus. Cho. Which misfortune shall I now lament? Which of these fatal deeds ? Alas ! it is hard for me, a wretch, to judge; one is before our eyes, the other we expect. To have, and certainly to expect, is equal. Strophe. 1 wish some favourable wind would blow from home, to bear me from this palace, lest I die with fear, seeing the brave son of Jove alone : for they say that this great miracle draws near the palace, overwhelmed with griefs incurable. Antistrophe. He is near, and not far off; as the shrill nightin- gale they weep. Here is a company of strangers coming, and every one helps to bear him as a friend, and, without noise, walking with silent tread. What can I judge ? That he is asleep or dead ? THE TRACHINIyE. 323 ACT V. SCENE III. Enter Hercules, home in a chair, followed hy a com- pany weeping for him, which Hyllus meets. Hyl. Woe is me, a wretch ! Father, father, woe is me ! What shall I do ? What com'se shall I take? Woe is me ! Old Man. Be silent, child, nor move the fierce pains of thy raging father, for he lies asleep, look- ing do\Mivvard : but forbear to bite thy lips. Hyl. What sayest thou, old man, is he alive ? Old 3Ian. Raise him not from his sleep, nor stir him, lest thou likewise raise his furious raging dis- temper. Hyl. O, but my sad heart doth cause me endless woe ! Her. O, Jove, whither shall I go ? Among whom do I lie, afflicted with never-ceasing pains ? Woe is me, a wretch! Now again the infection rages, alas ! ^Hercules aivakes. Old Man. Did you not know that it was better to be silent, and not to chase soft slumbers from his head and eyebrows? [To Hyllus. Hyl. How could I rest, seeing this sad evil ? Her. O Censean hill, where sacred altars are placed, what thanks hast thou returned me now ? And for how great sacrifices ! O, Jove ! what dis- grace hast thou brought on me ? I would I had never seen with my eyes such an implacable rage of madness. What enchanter or experienced physician can appease it, except Jove alone? O that I could see that miracle, though never so far, approaching. Let me lie still, an unhappy man as I am, let me lie still. Where dost thou touch me ? Thou killest me! Where wouldst thou thrust me? Thou hast raised that, which otherwise had slept. Mv disease Y 2' 324 THE TRACHINI^. is disturbed, and again rages. Where are you, the most unjust of all the Grecians, whose woods and seas I, who so often have scoured, thus miserably perish, and none of you will turn against me fire, or friendly sword, and cut off my head, to rid me of this hated life. Old Man. O thou, who art son of this man, that is too great a task for my strength, but do thou assist ; thou hast a nimbler eye to assist bim than me. Hyl. I touch him, but neither at home nor abroad can I find a remedy for this life-consuming disease. Her, O son, son, where art thou? Hold me here, hold me here, and raise me up. O my sad fortune, it comes on me again, it comes on me, the terrible fierce disease which destroys me. O Pallas, it again torments me, pity your father, draw yovir sword, which none ^vill blame, and stab me to the heart, and heal this pain which your impious mother hath inflicted on me ; whom O that I could see lying in the same torment which she hath given me. Brother of Jove, dear Pluto, lay me asleep ; and w ith a speedy death destroy an unhappy man. Cho. O my friends, I tremble to hear of the sad calamities in which so great a man as the king is overwhelmed. Her. Many gi>eat and unutterable toils my body hath endured, and many exploits I have with my hands performed, yet neither Juno nor Eurystheus ever imposed on me what the deceitful daughter of Oeneus hath. For she hath bound my shoulders with a net, spun by the furies, by which I die, for it, sticking to my sides, feeds on my flesh, sucks up my spirits, and drinks my corrupted blood; and my whole body is consumed and bound in with this abominable garment. This, neither the hostile sword, nor the earth-born host of giants, nor the Centaur's power, nor Grecian, nor barbarian, nor all the coun- THE TRACHINIiE. 325^ tries I cleared of monsters, ever before effectecL But ^ a weak woman, of no man-like disposition, slew me without a sword. O, my son, be ready to shew thyself truly my son, nor honour more thy mother's name. Bring' her out with your ovvn hand, and deliver her to me, that I may know whether you more lament my suffering body than you will her injurious form, when you shall see it justly punished by me. Go my son, behold, pity me who am pitied by many thus weeping as a virgin ; and that no man that ever lives can say he saw me do before, for without murmuring I ever bore my evils : but now from such a one I am all turned woman, and now come near and stand by thy father, and behold what calamities I endure, and all caused by this garment. Look all of you and behold my miserable body; behold a miserable man how I suffer. Now the convulsions rage, they pierce me asunder ; nor doth the consuming disease leave me free in any part. O infernal king receive me; O thunderbolt of Jove, strike me, O strike me down with thunder. Now the convulsions again devour me ; now they revive and rage furiously. O my hands, back, breast, and arms, it is you who once slew the immense, inacces- sible lion of Nemaea, the destroyer of the cattle, and the monster-hydra of Lerna: it is you who slew the pernicious mighty army of Centaurs, who partook the natures both of men and horses, and the boai: ^ A weak woman, of no, Sfc] Gr. yvi\) ^e, ^^T^vq sa-cc. Mr. Johnson, in his notes upon this passage says, that the word ywvi in general signifies a woman of what disposition soever ; but ^rjXvq, in a stricter sense, means a timorous woman, weak in body and mind. This he confirms by v. 1083. From such a brave man I am quite turned woman, or am emascu- lated. 326 THE TRACHINIiE. of Erymanthus, and brought from hell ^the three- headed dog, that resistless monster begotten of the viper. It is yon who slew the dragon, keeper of the golden apple in the borders of Libya, and many other toils I have endured ; nor was ever any power victorious over me, but now am I torn and disjoint- ed, and by a secret pestilence am consumed: I, who am son of the best of mothers, and of celestial Jove. But be well-assured of this, that though I perish and become very nothing, she who is the author of these vile deeds shall feel the severity of my hand. Let her come only, and she shall be taught by experience to declare to all, that alive or dead I will punish the wicked. Cho. O wretched Greece, in what grief shall I see you overwhelmed, if you are deprived of this man? Hyl. Father, since you permit me to speak, keep silence and hear me, though you are in pain, for I will ask that which it is but just I should obtain. Listen to me, nor let your anger thus prevail, for you know not what just reason you have to rejoice, nor why you grieve thus vainly. Her, Say what thou wilt, then cease ; for I being grieved with this disease, understand not perplexed discourses. Hyl. I am going to speak concerning my mother, and to shew how her case is, and wherein she un- willingly offended. Her. Villain, dost thou again mention thy mur- derous mother that I should hear thee? Hyl. For so the case is, that it were unfit for me to be silent. Her. No ; because of her crime against me com- mitted. ^ The three-headed dog.] i. e. Cerberus. See our notes upon Oedipus Coloneus, Act V. note ^. THE TRACHINI7E. 327 Hyl, But presently you will not say she h^th offended. Her. Speak, but beware lest you shew yourself an unnatural son. Hyl. Then I will speak. My mother is just now dead. Her. By whom? thou speakest of monstrous evils. Hyl. By her own hand, and none else. Her. Woe is me, would she had died by mine. Hyl. You would change your mind, did you know all. Her. Thou hast now begun to say somewhat more wonderful ; but speak as thou knowest. Hyl. She did every thing amiss, while conscious of no ill. Her. Conscious of no ill, when she hath slain thy father? Hyl. Thinking to reconcile your love to herself by a philtre she erred, when she peiceived your other marriage. Her. Who was so great a sorcerer among the Trachinians ? Hyl. Nessus, the Centaur, once persuaded her to secure your love by that philtre. Her. ^ Alas, I am undone, nor shall hereafter be- hold the light. Woe is me! I see my sad calamities. Go, my son, thou hast no more a father, call hither all your brothers, call wretched Alcmena, vainly called wife of Jove, to hear the final answer of the oracle concerning me, which I have learned. Hyl. She is not here, but is gone to Tirynthia, near the shore, to dwell. Some of her sons she hath taken and keeps with her, others inhabit the city of Thebes; but as many of us as are here are ready to hear and to assist thee. s AlaSy lam undone.] He breaks out into this exclamation, re- membering the oracle delivered concerning him at Dodona. 328 THE TRACHINIjE. Her. TJierefore hear this : now is it time for thee to shew of what father thou art born, since thou art mine. It was formerly told me, by my father, that I should die by none living, but one who is dead, and an inhabiter among the infernal shades : there- fore this Centaur, as the divine oracle foretold, though dead, hath slain me. But now will I tell you new prophecies like those old ones which I re- ceived of my father's ^prophesying oak, and wrote down ' when I went into the forest of the mountain- ous Selli, who lie on the ground. These answered ^ Prophesying oak.^ Gr. 'woXufxcjo-a-a ^^v6^. The oaks and beeches of this grove were, according to fiction, endowed with human voice and a prophetical spirit, for which reason they were called 'w^orriyo^oi, and jjiocvlixccl, and -ro-oAt^yAwacroi ^^viq, i.e. sj)eaking or prophesying oaks. This fiction seems to be grounded upon a practice of the prophets, of placing themselves when they gave answers in one of the trees; for Sophocles seems here to allow this faculty only to one of them, and so the oracle was thought to be uttered by the oak, which was only pronounced out of its hollow stock, or from among its branches. ^ When Iivent into the forest of the mountainous Selli, who lie on the grou?id.] Gr. x^iJLony.oiruv ^e>\Xu)y. Others write tlteir names Helli without a-. They were those persons who delivered the ora- cles at Dodona's grove. Homer gives them the epithets of dvi-jflo- Tcohq and p^a/xatsDvat, whence Strabo concludes they were barba- rous and uncivilized. Eustathius tells us they were called ^a/xa*- ivvcci, (and consequently x°^iA.a,iKoWof,,) because they slept upon the ground in skins, and in that posture expected prophetical dreams from Jupiter. Others will have them so called, because they did not lie on beds, but on the bare ground; and that they were call- ed dviTrlorrohq, because they never went out of the temple, and, therefore had no occasion to wash their feet. Others will have those names to be understood only in a figurative sense, thus: their bodies, indeed, did lie on the ground, but their minds, by the assistance of prophetical philosophy, soared above these lower re- gions. There are other reasons given for these titles by the old Scholiast on Homer, II. -zat. p. 1074. Edit. Basil. Lastly, others thus, that all the oracles were delivered by women ; and, that the Selli were only inhabitants of the neighbouring country, who were employed in the temple, and published the oracles to other men which they received of the prophetesses. THE TRACHINIiE. 329 me, that after I lived to this present time, there would be an end of my toils; and then I thought I should hve happy: but that was nothing else but I must die, for the dead have no trouble. Now, since these things are plainly come to pass, my son, you ought to be my assistant, nor wait until my anger rises, but do what is your duty, since it is a good law, that you should obey your father. Hyl. O father, I fear to contend against that law ; in every thing therefore I will obey thee. Her. Then first lend me thy right hand. Hyl. For what end dost thou so earnestly desire that pledge of faith? Her. Wilt thou not give it me, nor come near? Hyl. Here I give it, nor shall it be denied thee. Her. Swear now by Jove, my father. Hyl. What shall I swear to do, and I will do it? Her. That you will do what I shall say. Hyl. I swear, therefore, by Jove, the punisher of perjury. Her. But, if you should be false, implore ven- geance against yourself. Hyl. I shall not suffer vengeance, but will do it, yet I implore. Her. Knowest thou the top of the high mountain Oeta, sacred to Jove? Hyl. I know, for there I often sacrificed. Her. Then must thou now with thine own hands, with some of thy choice fiiends, bear my body there ; then cutting down much wood, both of the deep rooted oak, and likewise the male wild olive- tree, raise a funeral pile, and Jay my body on ; then taking a bright burning torch of pitch, set it on fire : let no lamentation be heard, nor shed one tear ; but, without both, if truly thou art my son, do this ; but, if not, I will continue for ever to curse thee among the dead. 330 THE TRACHINIiE. HyL Woe is me, father, what hast thou said? What hast thou bid me do? Her. What thou must do, otherwise thou art bom of another father, thou shalt not be called my son. Hyl. Ah, me ! again dost thou bid me be a parri- cide and thy murderer? Her. Not I, but my only physician and healer of those evils which I suffer. Hyl. But how by burning your body shall I heal it? Her. If you abhor that office, do the rest. Hyl. I will not refuse the bearing of the wood. Her. Meanest thou to get ready the pile? Hyl. As far as I am able, so I touch not your body with my hands to burn it ; every thing else I will do ; you shall not want my assistance. Her. This will be enough, add this small kind- ness to other great ones thou hast done me. Hyl. Though it be great, yet it shall be done. Her^ Knowest thou the virgin daughter of Eury tus . Hyl. Thou meanest lole, as I suppose. Her. Thou art right; this I desire of thee, my son, when I am dead, if thou vnlt act piously, re- membering the oath by which thou art bound to me, make her thy wife : do not oppose thy father, nor let any other man beside you take her who lay by my side, but take her to thy own bed. Obey me, for since thou hast obeyed me in great matters, if thou disobeyest me in small, thou forfeitest all thy former thanks thereby. Hyl. Ah, me ! it is base to be angry with a sick man, but who can bear to see one thus disposed ? Her. Sayest thou so, that thou wilt do nought which I command thee? Hyl. Who could endure her, who alone was the cause of my mother's death, and of your disease? Who, I say, could endure this, but one who is perse- THE TRACHINI^. 331 cuted by the furies ? it is better for me to die than to cohabit with my worst of foes. Her. This man, I think, respects not his dying father, but the curse of the gods w aits on thee for disobeying thy father's commands. Hyl. Ah, me! thou seemest to talk as thy dis- temper dictates. Her. Dost thou again awake my ceasing pains? Hyl. Ah, me! how many doubts distract my soul. Her. Dost thou not think it is just to obey thy father? Hyl. But, father, shall I learn to be impious ? Her. It is no impiety to gratify my mind. Hyl. But dost thou command things altogether just? Her. I do, I call the gods as my witnesses. Hyl. Therefore I will do them, nor will I dis- obey, and protest before the gods that this is yom^ work ; for I can never seem wicked, w hile I obey thee, my father. Her. Thou hast w ell concluded, and add this speedy favour to thy former, before my fury and convulsions tear me; place me upon the pile, go hasten and bear me thither : this is my final rest from son'ows. Hyl. Nothing hinders but I may do this, since thou commandest and forces t me. Her. Go now before my disease is again awaked. O hard heart! cease thy clamour as though shut up with steel : for even a most ungrateful thing is ac- ceptable. [They hear Hercules to the pile. Hyl. Support him, my companions, and herein give me pardon, knowing in these present calamities, how I am unpitied of the gods ; who, having begot me and been called my fathers, overlook these suf- ferings. What is to come none can foresee, the 332 THE TRACHINIiE. present misfortunes are lamentable, to others sad, but most intolerable to him who bears the loss. Cho. Thou, maid, go not from home, [the Chorus to each other,'] who hast seen the funerals of great men, and all the calamities which of late we have borae : and there is none of them which Jove was not the cause of. THE TRAGEDY OF PHILOCTETES Bvamati^ Wevmnae. Ulysses. NeoptolemuSw Philoctetes. A Merchant. Chorus of old Men who accompanied Neoptolemus in his ship. Hercules. SCENE — The Island of Lemnos, near the Cave of Philoctetes ; whei'e are many craggy rocks, precipices^ and promontories, fiear the sea. PHILOCTETES The Ai&GVMENT^^Philoctetes having discovered the altar of HerculeSy in the island Chrysa^ was stung in the foot hy a ser- pent which guarded it, when he would approach too near it. This biting caused a desperate ulcer to arise in his foot, for the anguish of which he could rest neither day nor night, but dis- turbed the Grecian army with his perpetual cries. Wherefore he was, by Ulysses and Diomedes, exposed on the island of Lemnos^ where he continued ten years, forlorn and comfortless. When the ten years were near expired, one Helenus was taken from Troy by the fraud of Ulysses, who declared to the Grecians, that (accord- ing to the prophecy of Calchas) it was impossible that Tr^oy should be taken without the arrows of Hercules, which were in the pos- session of Philoctetes, and the assistance of Neoptolemus, son of Achilles. Neoptolemus and Ulysses went, therefore, to Lemnos to bring him froin thence back to the camp at Troy. But when neither the frauds of the latter nor the persuasions of the former could prevail upon him to return, Hercules is supposed to descend from heaven, and command him to go with them, who tells him the two advantages he would gain thereby : namely, the reputa- tion of conqueror of Troy, and to be healed of his old sore. Whereupon, after bidding adieu to his old place of habitation, he goes with them. We have in the person of Philoctetes a representation of the miseries of man ; and the moral deducible is, that we ought to bear with patience our lighter afflictions, when we Me a miserable prince, though guilty of no crime, suffer the worst of ills. ACT I. SCENE I. Neoptolemus, Ulysses. Ulys. O, Neoptolemus, son of Achilles, the bravest Grecian that ever fought at Troy, * this is the shore of sea-encompassed Lemnos, by men un- trodden and uninhabited : w^here, by the order of the Grecian commanders, I exposed Philoctetes, the Melian, son of Paean. The reason why they gave me that command was this : his feet were wasted away by a consuming sore, this made him cry and bawl, and with dire imprecations so to fill the camp perpetually, that we could neither pour out libations nor offer sacrifices in quietness for him. But why should I at present talk of that ? This juncture admits of no tedious discourses, lest he should learn that I am come, and so I ruin the whole plot by which I think to take him. I have another task demands thy aid : first, look if thou canst find the rock I thus describe. It hath two doors, which in the cold receive the rays both of the rising and the setting sun ; and in the summer the gentle gale which blows in at the cave, on both sides open, provokes soft sleep. A little below, on the left hand, you may see a fountain-stream, if it be there still. Go, and silently signify to me whether * This is the shore.] The prologue of this tragedy is spoken by Ulysses, as in Euripides, only herein they differ, that, as Sophocles joins Neoptolemus with him, Euripides lays all on Ulysses. The prologue of the ancient tragedy is that part of it which precedes the entrance of the Chorus, and makes a true part of the tragedy. Not as it is in our modern tragedies, where the pro- logue is only to explain to the audience what concerns the subject of the poem, which is, therefore, entire without '\^. 336 PHILOCTETES. he continues in the same place, or if he hath moved his quarters, that you may hear what I have else to say. Thus we'll assist each other. Neop. The task, Ulysses, which you impose is not hard ; for methinks I see the den you mentioned. Uli/s. Above or below ? For I understand you not. Neop. Above, nor is there track of foot. Ulj/s. But see if he be not laid asleep. Neop. I see a habitation forsaken of its dwellers. UIt/s. Nor is there within any domestic food ? Neop. Bruised leaves, as if some lay there. Uli/s. Are other places empty ? Is there nothing, else? Neop. A wooden pot, the work of some bad workman, and a fire-pot likewise. Uli/s. You mention all his treasure. Neop. Alas ! And here are rags dried, full of filth and matter. Uli/s. Certainly the man inhabits "here, nor is he far off; for how should a man distempered in his feet, with an old sore, go far ? He is gone to the way from the pastures, or hath found oiit some wholesome herb ; send this servant to spy, lest he should come upon me privately, for he would rather take me than all the Grecians. Neop. He is gone and will watch his way. [Ser- vant sent out.] But thou, if thou wouldst say any thing, now say it. UI2/S. In this business thou art come about, thou must not only be stout in body, but in mind ; if thou hearest any strange thing w^hich thou never didst hear before, be by to assist me. Neop. What, therefore, dost thou command ? Uli/s. You must deceive Philoctetes with words when he shall ask you who and whence you are. You must say you are the son of Achilles, that must not be concealed : feign that you are sailing PHILOCTETES. 337 home, leaving the Grecian fleet, hating them with most bitter hatred ; who, after they had beseeched you, with many entreaties, to come from home, when they could not by other means take Troy, gave not the armour of Achilles to you, when you came and justly demanded them ; but gave them to Ulysses, saying the worst of ill you can imagine against me ; you will not thereby grieve me, but if you do it not you will grieve all the Grecians ; for, unless his darts are taken, it will be impossible to take Troy. Understand, therefore, how you may easily have free conversation with him, but I cannot. Thou hast sailed hither bound by oath to none, nor through necessity ; nor in the beginning of the war wast thou a companion. But nought of this can I deny, so that if he, possessing the darts, shall per- ceive me, I perish, and shall hkewise kill you. This, therefore, must be contrived, to steal those arms you cannot overcome. I know that you are not of such a disposition to invent and say all your- self, yet were it a pleasant thing to obtain the vic- tory. Be bold, at another time we will be just; but now give yourself up to me, and for a short time be impudent, and afterwards the most religious of all men. Neop. O son of Laertes, those things I hear with grief I hate to act. ^ I can do nothing by base arts, nor could he who begat me ; but I am prepared to compel him by force, and not by fraud : for with one foot he will never overcome us by force, being so many. Since I am sent as an assister, I would not be called a traitor ; for I had rather miscarry in ^ I can do nothing hy base.'] Sophocles, in this piece, gives N-eoptolemus manners something like those of his father ; for ha supposeth him a person brave, and hating fraudulent contrivances ; one who would not do a base thing, though he should gain by it : for Ifc puts in his mouth the words of Achilles, Z 338 PHILOCTETES. my enterprize while I do well than basely to over- come. Ulys. Thou son of a noble father, when I was a youth myself, I had a slow tongue, but a courageous hand ; but now, by experience, I find, it is the tongue, not the hands, which governs all things. Neop. What else dost thou command me, besides lying? Ulys. I say that you must take Philoctetes by craft. Neop. But why rather by craft, than by persua- sion? Ulys. He will not submit, nor can you take him by force. Neop. Hath he this prodigious strength ? Ulys. He hath inevitable mortal darts. Neop. Nor is it safe to come near him ? Ulys. No, unless you take him by fraud, as 1 say. Neop. But thinkest thou it is not a vile thing to lie? Ulys. No ; when to lie is the safest way. Neop, With what face dare any one say this ? Ulys. *" When you do any thing for your profit, you ought not to be afraid. Neop, But what profit is it for me, that he should come to Troy ? Ulys. His arrows alone will take Troy. Neop. Did you not say that I should take it ? Ulys. Not you without them, or they without you. Neop. They must, therefore, be taken, since it is so. Ulys. If you do it, you will have two rewards. Neop. Which are they ? If I know them, I shall not refuse to do it. *^ When you do any thing for your profit^ you ought not.l But those of Ulysses, on the contrary, are fraudulent and self-ended, and shew he would, stick at nothing for his advantage; yea, he plainly declares it. For he says, orav t) ^^aq U >ce§^os ax okvi7v w^twit. PHILOCTETES. 339 XJlys. You will be called both wise and brave. Neop, Go, I will do it, laj ing aside all modesty. Ulys. Dost thou remember, therefore, what coun- sel I gave thee ? Neop. Be assured of it, since once I have ap- proved of it. Ulys. Therefore, do thou stay here to wait for him ; but I will go hence, lest I should be seen, and will send again the spy to the ship ; and, if I think you delay too long, I will send him back again in the disguise of a sailor, changing his habit, as if he met with you by ignorance, whom you shall observe speaking mystically, whatsoever he says for your advantage. I go, therefore, to my ship, leaving these instructions with you ; ^ and may Mer- cury, that subtle commander, conduct us, and vic- torious Pallas, guardian of the city, which always defends me. ACT I. SCENE II. Strophe I. Chorus, Neoptolemus. What should I, a stranger, do in a strange land ? Shall I be private ? Or what shall I speak before the man, when he suspects us? Tell me? For ^ his counsel exceeds all other counsels and opinions, by whom the divine sceptre of Jove is swayed. To thee, O son, the ancient power belongs ; then tell me wherein I should assist thee ? ^ May Mercury, that subtle commander.] See the notes on Electra. * His counsel exceeds all other counsels and opinions^ by whom the divine scepti^e.] So in the Oedipus Tyrannus. z 2 340 PHILOCTETES. Nepp^ Now would you see the utmost bounds of the place where he inhabits, look boldly. And when this terrible traveller comes from his covert, thou still approaching to my hand, endeavour to assist in the present affair. Antistrophe I. Cho. Thou tellest me, my lord, what I thought before, to observe the motions of your eyes, and to watch your occasions which demand my help. Now tell me his usual haunts, the places of his abode ; it is fit I know them, lest I should not know him when he comes. What place doth he inhabit? Where is his seat, and what way does he pass out or in ? Neop. You see this dome, and the double doors, and rocky bed. Cho, Where is the wretch himself absent ? Neop. To seek for food he somewhere walks, this way, hard by. The report is, that this is his wretched manner of life, to shoot with swift arrows, and not to seek any remedy for his disease. Strophe I. Cho. I pity him that he hath none to take care of him, nor any relation to regard him; but the wretch, ever alone, endures a cruel disease, and is in sor- row in every time of need. How, alas! how doth the wretch endure himself? O the toils of mortals ! O miserable race of men! who in their fortunes en- joy no middle state. Antistrophe II. This man, perhaps in birth, second to none, the most ujihappy of all men in his life^ lies alone apart from all others, with the spotted and hairy beasts, afflicted with pains and hunger, oppressed with most intolerable cares; and, the mournful echo with PHILOCTETES. 341 Open mouth, resounding far off, repeats his sad complaints. Neop. Nothing of this seems wonderful to me; for, if I understand ought, these afflictions are sent by a divine hand ; by ^ means of cruel Chryse : and now that he suffers without friends, it is not without the providence of the gods, that he should no sooner cast his invincible arrows against Troy; then that time comes wherein it was foretold, that it must be overcome by them. Antistrophica Strophe. Cho. Be silent, child. Neop. What is that? Cho. Methinks I hear the voice of an afflicted man. Neop. Which way? This way or that? the voice of one salutes my ears, which, though it sounds from far, I can discern it is the voice of sorrow. Antistrophe. Cho. But take my son. Neop. What? Cho. New cares, for the man is not far distant, but hard by, nor delighted with voice of pipe as a country shepherd; but, either he having struck against something, roars out with a loud voice ; or, seeing our entrance into this sad port, bawls thus terribly. ^ By means of cruel Chryse."] Chryse was a city near Lemnos, where Philoctetes was bit by the serpent in his foot, while he was looking for the altar on which Hercules sacriiiced, when he went to light against Troy. But there was likewise a nymph of that name, who, being in love with Philoctetes, because he slighted her, she prayed these evils might befal him; and, therefore, the poet calls her cruel. 342 PHILOCTETES. ACT II. SCENE I. Philoctetes, Chorus , Neoptolemus. Phil. O strangers! who are you, who have put m at this land, neither fit for your reception, nor in- habited? Of what nation or kindred shall I call you? for I see a kind of Grecian habit which I most of all admire; I desire to hear your voice: nor, trembling with fear, stand amazed beholding me thus fierce, but pity me, a wretch, who am alone, forsaken, and friendless. Speak, if you are come as friends, and answer me; for, it is not fit that I should fail of that kindness from you, or you from me. Neop. First then, stranger, know that we are Grecians ; it is that thou desirest to know. Phil, O most loved voice : ah! that I should hear a Grecian's voice, after so long time. Who brought thee hither, son? What necessity? What violence forced you hither? Or what most friendly of all the winds ? tell me plainly the whole matter, that I may kiiow who you are. Neop, I am of the land of Scyros, and am saiK ing home. I am called Neoptolemus, the son of Achilles. Now thou knowest all. Phil, O son of a father most beloved by me, darling of Lycomedes ; with what fleet didst thou sail into this land? And whence art thou come? Neop. I have sailed with my fleet from Ilium. Phil, How ? thou didst not sail with us to Ilium in the beginning of the war. Neop, And did you partake in that service? Phil, O son! knowest thou not whom thou seest? Neop, How should I know him whom I never saw before? Phil, Didst thou never hear my name, or the PHILOCTETES. 343 fame of my sufferings, with which I have been op- pressed ? Neop. I know none of them. Phil. Oh, me, a wretch ! detested of the gods 1 of whom, though suffering thus, no report ever reached home, nor Greece ; they who impiously ba- nished me, deride me. silently, but this my distem- per still increases. O son! born of Achilles, I am he who probably thou hast heard, am master of the darts of Hercules : Philoctetes, the son of Paean, whom the two Atridse basely exposed, to perish by the cruel wovmd of a viper. And when they had exposed me here, in their voyage hither from Chryse,. when gladly they saw me asleep upon a rock, tired with sailing, they then went away and left me ; and,^ as to a poor wretch, they gave me a few rags and a little food, such as they had. But how do you think I awaked from my sleep when they were gone,, and how deplored my sufferings, when I saw that my ships were sailed away, that I had no neigh- bour, and none was present to assist me, labouring under this distemper? considering all things, I found no relief was near, but I must lie in pain, and I had opportimity enough for that. My time passed on, and I must seek for myself some nourishment in this mean habitation, and that my bow found out by shooting of fleet doves; and whatsoever else my arrow shot, I crawled along to seize it: moreover, if I wanted drink, or to break wood in the frosty winter, that I crawled out and did. Then there wanted fire ; so, knocking the stones together, with difficulty I produced the fire which lay concealed in them, which preserves me: a habitation, therefore, with fire, furnishes all things besides health. Now learn concerning this island. No sailor willingly puts into it, for there is no harbour here, nor any gain to be had by trading ; nor is any entertainment here ; therefore, no skilful sailors steer their course 344 PHILOCTETES. this way. Perhaps some against his will might put in here, for many such things happen in long time. They comfort me with then speeches when they come, and, out of pity, give me some food and clothing ; but none will bring me home when I make that request, but miserably I perish for these ten years with hunger and sorrows, feeding a devouring distemper. And all this I have suffered from the Atridse and Ul}'sses, to whom may the celestial gods repay condign punishment. C/io. I pity you, as well as other strangers who come hither. Neop. I can attest the truth of thy w^ords, for I know by experience that they are wicked men, and that Ulysses is violent. Phil. And hast thou an accusation against the vile Atridee, that thy sufferings have thus enraged thee? Neop. O that my hands had power to shew my resentments against them, that My cense and Sparta might know Scyros brings forth brave men. Phil. Therefore thus enraged art thou cOme to accuse them. Neop. I will tell, but scarce can I tell, how I have been injured by them : for, after fate had de- creed that Achilles should die Phil. Alas! say no more, ere first I learn if Achilles be dead. Neop. He died by no man, but by the arrows of the god Apollo, as they say. Phil. He was glorious both in life and death ; I doubt whether I shall first talk of your sufferings, or deplore him. Neop. I believe thou hast sufferings enough of thy own to lament, without those of thy friends. Phil. Right, therefore tell me that deed, wherein they have injured thee. PHILOCTETES. 345 'Neop. Ulysses and Phoenix came to me attended with a numerous fleet, saying: (whether it was true or false) that it was not possible, since my father was dead, Troy could be taken without me. When they had said this, they suffered me not to tarry long, ere I sailed away speedily; and I was ready to comply with their desire for this reason, chiefly, the longing I had to see my dead father, for I had not seen him living; besides, it were a glorious act, could I take Troy. After I had sailed two days, and with a prosperous voyage arrived at ^ sad Sigeum, the whole army standing round saluted me, and swore that Achilles, although dead, yet lived in me. He lay dead, but after unhappy I had la- mented him a little while, going to the Atridse, as it was fit I should, I demanded the armour of my father, and all things besides which belonged to him, but they returned me a most miserable answer: son of Achilles, whatever else belonged to thy father thou may est take; but another man, the son of Laertes, hath his armour. Then I, weeping, rise up, incensed with dismal wTath, and grieving say : O hated wretches, dare you give my armour to any else besides me, without my leave ? But Ulysses (for he was near) replied, they adjudged them to me, ^ for I preserved both them and him. I presently enraged against them, wished the saddest evils might befal them, leaving nought unsaid, if he robbed me of my armour. But he coming to me, though not in anger, yet pricked with what he had heard, an- swered: thou wast not with us, but wast absent 8 Sad Sigeum.] He calls it sad Sigeum, because it was the place where his father met his fate. ^ For I preserved both them and him.] It was said that Ulysses took the body of Achilles, and his armour, after he was slain^ away from the Trojans. And Ovid brings him in boasting. His humeris ego Corpus Achillis, S^c, 346 PHILOCTETES. where thou shouldst not have been; and shice thus boldly thou sayest all this, thou shalt never carry them with thee to Scyros. When I heard all this, I was vexed at the re- proaches, and sailed home, deprived of my own by impious Ulysses. Nor do I accuse him as I do the chiefs, for the whole city and army belongs to go- vernors, and delinquents are made wicked by their examples. I have said all. But he who hates the Atridae, is beloved both by the gods and me. Antistrophica Strophe. Cho. ' Mountainous Rhea, earth, mother of Jove, who nourishest all things, who govemest ^ great Pactolus, which slides on golden sands, thee, vene- rable mother, I invoke to revenge the injuries Neop- tolemus hath suffered from the Atrida? ; since, from the Atridae all his afflictions proceeded, when they gave away his father's armour. O happy goddess, whose chariot is drawn by lions, supreme deity ! Phil. You have sailed hither, friends, with a cer- tain token of your sorrow, and agree with me in acknowledging, that all these things come from the Atridae and from Ulysses ; for I know him to have a tongue expert in uttering all deceitful counsels and frauds, whereby he never designs to do justice: * Mountainous Rhea.] Rhea is the same with the earth, who, because her sacred rites are performed in the mountains, is there- fore called o^sre^, or o^sia, mountainous goddess. Homer calls her ^si^ai^oq. She had several other names, as Ops, Cybele, Dindy- mene, Bericynthia, Vesta, &c. She was worshipped by the Phry- gians. The Chorus here invocates her to revenge the injury which Neoptolemus received of Agamemnon and liis evil coun- sellors, in depriving him of his father's armour. ^ Great Pactolus, which slides on golden sands.] Pactolus is a river of Lydia, which with the force of its streams brings down golden sands from the mountain Tmolus, from whence it flows. Whence lla)t]w^of 'ivx^va-ov. By the sands of this river Croesus was said to have enrich^ himself. PHILOCTETES. 347 wherefore that is no wonder to me. But I wonder that Ajax, the elder, (if he were by,) should suffer that. Neop. He is no more : for, had he lived I had not been deprived of them. ' Phil. What say est thou ; is he dead ? Neop. No more he sees the light. Phil. Ah, me! nor the son of Tydeus, nor Ulysses, sold by Sisyphus to Laertes, are dead : for it is not fit that they should live. Neop. No ; but they flourish greatly in the Argian army. Phil. How does my good old friend, Nestor, king of Pylos? for he forbid their wicked arts and gave good counsel. Neop. He is now unhappy, for Antilochus, his son, is dead. Phil. Woe is me, thou hast told me two misfor- tunes, that they are dead whom I above all wished to have lived ; alas, what shall I now think since they are dead, but Ulysses lives, whom it was fitter should have died for them. Neop. Ulysses is a prudent warrior, but wise counsels are often overcome. Phil. Speak : tell me, by the gods, where was Patroclus then, who was your father's most beloved friend ? Neop. And he is dead: for, as in short I shall in- form thee, unless it be by chance, the war destroys no vncked man, but always the good. Phil. I agree with thee, therefore I will inquire of that unw^orthy man, but prudent and grave in speech ; how is it with him ? Neop. Who is he but Ulysses, of whom thou speakest ? Phil, I say not him, but there was one • Thersites, ' Thersites, who often used.'\ He was slain by Achilles at the 348 PHILOCTETES. who often used to speak when none endured to hear him : knowest thou if he still lives ? Neop. I have not seen him, but have heard he is still alive. Phil. So it was to be, since nothing that is ill is gone. Ill things the gods take care of: but, if there be ought that is subtle and fraudulent, that they gladly preserve from death ; but whatsoever things are just and good, those they always deliver to her. What can we judge in these things, or how commend the deeds of the gods, "" since we find them bad ? Neop. Wherefore thou son of an Oetaean father, I, for the future looking at a distance, will avoid both Ilium and the Atridae, for among whom a bad man can do more than a good, and every thing is oppressed that is good, and violence rules, I will no more respect such men. But rocky Scyros here- after shall suffice for me, and I will content myself at home. Now I go to my ship ; and thou farewell, may all prosperity attend thee, and may the gods free thee from thy disease, as thou desirest ; but we will go, when God grants us a seasonable gale, then we will launch forth. Phil. Dost thou now prepare for going ? Neop. Season now is near, and calls us to sail away. Phil. Now, by thy father and thy mother, if there be ought dear to thee at home, humbly I be- seech thee leave me not thus alone; forsaken in these ills in which thou seest me, and in those same time when he slew Penthesilea, queen of the Amazons : for, after Achilles had slain her, Thersites struck her in the eye with his spear, for which Achilles was so enrage^, that he beat out his brains with liis fist. °* Since wejlnd them bad.] It is no great wonder they should charge their gods with evil, since they were so familiarly conver- sant among them, even as to be present in their battles, and even direct those arrows which were cast by others. See Homer's II. cr,^ PHILOCTETES. 349 wljerein thou hast heard I have been conversant; but lay me down m any mean place. I know I am troublesome, but then, nevertheless, bear with me ; for generous minds hate any thing that is base, but delight in what is honourable. If you forsake me it will be a bad reproach to you ; but, if you take me, much glory will be your reward, when I come safe to Oeta. I shall not be the burthen of a whole day: venture it, take me and lay me where thou wilt on the jakes, or on the prow, that I may as little as possible disturb others that are present. Yield to me, by Jupiter, guardian of suppliants ; be persuaded; I prostrate myself, and grasp your knees, though I am weak, miserable, and lame; leave me not thus destitute without footstep of man- kind, but either lead me safe into your country, or into Eubcea, and from thence my way to Oeta is not far, and the borders of Trachinium, and gently flowing Sperchius, that you may restore me to my beloved father, whom I have long feared lest he be dead. For, I have sent him many suppliant prayers by those who came hither, that he would send a ship and bring me safe home; but, either he is dead, or, which is most probable, the messengers making small account of my business, hastened home. But now I come to you as my conductor and my guar- dian angel, do thou save me, seeing how men lie exposed to many dangers, now they are in prospe- rity, now in adversity : but it becomes him w ho is free from troubles to look upon the afflicted. And when any one lives happily, then ought he to look to himself, lest some unforeseen accident destroy liim. A^fTlSTROPHE. CJio. Pity him, O king, for he hath mentioned trials of many sad sufferings, which none of my friends ever did : but, if thou hatest the fierce Atridae, 350 PHILOCTETES. I, turning tlieir evil to his advantage here, since he eagerly urges it, in a well-rigged nimble ship will go home, avoiding the vengeance of the gods. ACT III. SCENE I. Neoptolemus, Chorus, Philoctetes. Neop. Beware lest thou art over easy, for when thou art tired with his distemper thou wilt not be the same. Cho. By no means, thou shalt never have that to reproach me \\ith. Neop. It is a shame that I should seem behind thee in readiness to assist a stranger ; therefore, if thou think est fit, we will sail, let him come quickly, the ship shall receive him, nor shall he be denied. Only may the gods conduct us safe out of this land, to ^vhatsoever place Ave desire from hence to sail. Phil. O joyful day! and thou most beloved of all men, and dear sailors, how shall I shew myself suf- ficiently grateful to you ? let us go and salute my familiar habitation, that you may know upon what I have lived, and how patient I have been ; for, I think that no other but me, who only takes a view of it with his eyes, would endure all this which I have done, but I am taught by necessity to bear it. Cho. But wait that we may learn farther. — Two men, our ship-companion and another, approach, whom when you have heard, afterwards you shall go in. ACT III. SCENE II. One of the Chorus, one disguised like a Merchant, sent hy Ulysses, Neoptolemus, Philoctetes. Merch: "" Son of Achilles, I commanded this my " Son of Achilles.] Here entereth tlje servant of Uiysses, PHILOCTETES. 351 companion, who was the keeper of your ship, to tell me where you were, since I have met with you con- trary to my expectation as by accident I came to this country, sailing from Ilium "" home to Pepareth with vines well planted, not with a large fleet; when I heard these were your sailors, I resolved, since I had met with my brother sailors, not to sail by in silence, ere I desired thee to sail away. Thou knowest nought of what concerns thee, what con- sultations the Argians have had about thee, and not only consultations, but some things have been acted. Neop. Thanks to thee for thy kind admonition, and if I am no ill man, my well deserved grace at- tends thee. But speak, that I may know what new consultation of the Argians about me this is thou hast told me of. Mer. Old Phoenix and ^ the sons of Theseus are gone out with their fleet, in pursuit of thee. Neop. To bring me by force or persuasion ? Mer. I know not, but what I have heard I tell thee. Neop. Doth Phoenix and his companions do this to gratify the Atridae ? Mer. Be assured these things are now in hand, nor is there any delay. Neop. Why doth not Ulysses take it in hand himself? Was he ready to have sailed hither, or Avould not his fear alone let him? dressed in the habit of a merchant, as they had agreed upon be- fore, who, feigning himself to come to the place by accident, alarms him with a false account of some pursuers, and whom he warns him to avoid ; but his design was to bring him and Philoc- tetes to Ulysses's ship. ° Home to Pepareth.] Peparethus is one of the islands of the Cyclades, in the iEgean sea. P The sons of Theseus.] Their names were Acamas and De- mophoon. Homer mentions them not in his catalogue of Heroes, 352 PHILOCTETES. Mer, He and Diomedes, when I came hither, sailed after another. Neop, Whom? Mer. It was one ; but tell me first who this is, but speak not loud. Neop, He is noble Philoctetes. Mer. Now ask me no more, but with all speed launch forth, and convey thyself out of this country. Phil. What says he? Why doth he privately betray me by his discourse to you? Neop. I know not what he said, but he ought to say clearly what he says before thee, my friends, and myself. Mer. O son of Achilles, betray me not to the army, since I speak what I ought not ; for I have received of them much kindness. Neop. I am an enemy to the Atridae, but this my gTeatest friend, because he hates them. You ought, therefore, to conceal nothing from us of all you have heard, if it be acceptable. Mer. Consider what you do. Neop. I do consider. Mer. I shall blame you for all this. Neop. For what ? Mer. Those two men, as thou hast heard of, Diomedes and Ulysses, bound by oath, do sail against this man, to bring him away either by per- suasion or by violence ; and this all the Grecians heard Ulysses plainly say ; for he of the two hath most boldness to do that deed. Neop. On what account do the Atridae, after so long time, regard Philoctetes, whom long before they rejected ? Whence comes this their desire of him ? Is it from the Gods, and Nemesis, who re- venges vile deeds ? Mer. I will inform thee of all (for probably thou hast not heard it). There was a noble prophet, son PHILOCTETES. ^ 353 of Priam, his name was Helenus, whom this frau- dulent Ulysses, (who never hears ought of himself but what is base and dishonourable,) going out alone by night, seized and bnnging him prisoner, shewed all the Grecians his fine prey. This prophet, with many other things, prophesied to them, that they should never overcome Troy, unless prevailing upon this man, by persuasion, they lead him out of this island wherein he dwells. When the son of Laertes heard the prophet say this, immediately he promised he would bring him, he thought he could bring him by his own choice, but if not, to use vio- lence, and promised that' his head should pay the forfeit if he failed : thou hast heard all, therefore I advise you both hasten away, and if there be any other whom thou carest for. Phil. Woe is me ! Did that \dllain, that abstract of all ill, swear that he would persuade me to go to the Grecians ? As soon I will be persuaded "^ that when I die I shall return again to life, as his father, Sisyphus, did. Met'. That I know not, but I go to my ship, and may God grant you all good things. ACT III. SCENE III. Philoctetes, NeoptoJemus, Chorus. Phil. Is not this most unjust, that the son of Laertes hopes, with deluding words, to bring me to the Grecians ? No ; I would sooner hear my most ^ That when I die I shall return.'] To what was said before of Sisyphtts, the father of Ulysses, this farther account is added, that upon his death-bed he charged his wife to leave his body unburied, which accordingly she did ; whereupon he accused her to Pluto and Proserpine for not performing due funeral obsequies to his body, and obtained of them leave to return to life and revenge on her the affront ; but when he came to life, he never returned until he was constrained by necessity. A ii 354 . PHILOCTETES. bitter enemy, the viper who made me lame. But he says and dares all things, and now I know he will certainly come. Wherefore, O son, let us go, that the broad sea may divide us from Ulysses's ship. Let us go, for seasonable diligence at last brings ease and rest from labour. , Neop. When there is a fair wind ; now it blows against us. Phil. When you fly from evils, there is always good sailing. Neop. Fear not, tlie winds oppose them too, (i. e. Ulysses and Diomedes.) Phil. The winds never oppose pirates, when their time is for robbing and plundering. Neop. If thou thinkest fit then, we will go ; and bring with thee what thou hast need of and desirest. Phil. There are some things that 1 have need of. Neop. What is that which is not in my ship ? Phil. I liave a leaf wherewith I always ease my wounds and mitigate my pain. Neop. Bring it out ; what other thing dost thou desire to take ? Phil. Alas ! I suspect that I have left something that belongs to those bows ; but leave it not for another to take. Neop. Meanest thou those excellent bows ? Phil. The same ; for I bear no other. Neop. But may I take a view of them nearer, and cany them, and adore them as some god ? Phil. That shall be granted thee, and any thing else in my power that will be for thy profit. Neop. I love this bow, but my love is thus ; if it be just for me I will, if not excuse me. Phil. Thou speakest piously ; it is just for thee, by whose providence alone the light of the sun I see, the land of Oeta, my ancient father and my friends ; and who, being under the power of my enemies, hast freed me from thence. Be confident PHILOCTETES. 355 you may both touch these, return them to the giver, and boast that you alone of all men may touch them, for your virtue's sake : for it is for my good deeds I got them, nor am I grieved to see you touch them who art my friend ; for he who hath been well used, knows how to use well his benefactor, and a friend is more precious than the greatest wealth. Neop, Go in. Phil. And I will introduce thee ; for, being dis- tempered, I have need of thee to assist me. ACT III. SCENE IV. CJiorus. Strophe I, I have heard but never saw it, that formerly "^ mighty Jove took Ixion, who attempted to corrupt his bed, and bound him a prisoner to a wheel, to be whirled round ; but never heard or saw any other who suffered a more cruel fate than this man, who neither injured nor robbed any one, but a just man unworthily perishes : and I wonder at that, how alone, as a ship immersed in waves beaten on every side, he endured this lamentable life. ^ Mighty Jove took Ixion.'] He was the son of Phlegyas ; the crime for which he is thus punished was his boasting he had cor- rupted Jiino, but it was only a cloud in her shape, on which he be- gat the Centaurs. Tibul. lib. i. Eleg. 3. Illic Junonem tentare Ixionis ausi Versantur celeri noxia memhra rota. The offensive members of Ixion, who dared to tenij)t the chastity of Juno, are turned about on a nimble wheel. And Pindar Pvth. Od. ii. l^iovx IP 9rl^ojvlt T^°%^ -njavlet KvXivoofAivoy. A a 2 356 PHILOCTETE5. Antistrophe T. Exposed to winds, having no power to go, nor a,ny, even bad, neighbour to whom he may pubhsh his sad and cruel grief, again to be repeated ; nor any to assuage with soft leaves the warm ulcer of his wounded foot, or if any there should happen to be to bear him his food from the fruitful earth ; but he creeps forth every where, dragging himself along as a child without his beloved nurse, where the ways are smooth, when his torturing pain will suffer him : nor, unless with arrows and trusty bow, gets he any food to eat ; who for this ten years time hath not been delighted with one draught of wine, but look- ing where he can spy any standing water, he creeps to it to quench his thirst. Antistrophe II. But now, meeting with noble Neoptolemus, will lead a happy life, and, from his past troubles, will become great ; who, taking him into a sea-crossing ship, after many months will bring him into his father's country, to the nymphs of Melis and the banks of Sperchius, where Hercules passed to the celestial gods, burnt in a pile on the bank of Oeta. ACT IV. SCENE I. ^ Neoptolemus, Philoctetes, Chorus. Neop, Go on, if thou wilt ; why art thou thus si- lent for no cause, and thus amazed ? Phil. Alas ! alas ! Neop. What is the matter ? Phil. No harm, but go on. Neop. Do you restrain the violence of your ap- proaching disease ? PHILOCTETEfS. 357 PhiL No, but I think ' it is easier with me ; O the gods ! Neop. Why, thus lamenting, dost thou invocate the gods ? Phil, That they would come to us as our kind dehverers ; ah ! ah ! Neop. What is that thou sufferest? Wilt thou not speak, but still continue thus in silence ? Thou seemest to labour under some evil. PhiL O I am lost : nor can I conceal my sorrow from you. Woe is me ! it pierces me ; alas ! alas ! I am undone, I am destroyed, &c. By the gods, if thou hast a sword ready at hand, smite my foot, cut it off with all speed ; nor spare my life ; go, my «on. Neop. What sudden thing is this? Why dost thou make all these clamours and lamentations ? Phil. O, child, thou knowest. Neop. What is it ? Phil. Thou knowest. Neop. What is the matter with thee ? Phil. I know not. Neop. How dost thou mean thou knowest not ? PhiL Alas! Alas! Neop. How terrible is the coming on of this disease. PhiL So terrible it cannot be uttered. O pity me. Neop. What shall I do ? Phil. Forsake me not, for fear of my disease : it comes by intervals, as wandering beasts for prey return home when they are filled. Neop. Thou miserable man, through many toils thou art miserable : permit me to take hold of, and carry thee. ' It is easier with me ; O the gods.] Wliile he rejoices at the thouglits of his returning home to his country, still the pain of his distemper interrupts his joy. 358 PHILOCTETES. Phil. By no means, but take my l)Ow as tliou didst ask me, until the present violence of my disease abates, keep and preserve these : sleep seizeth me when this disease comes on me, nor doth it cease before I sleep. Therefore, you must let me rest quietly ; but, if they come in that time, I beseech you, by the gods, neither willingly or un- willingly, or by any art be overcome to yield them up to Ulysses, lest you kill both yourself and me, who am your suppliant. Neop. Fear not, for by my consent they shall be common to none but thee and me. Therefore, give them me, and the good fortune too that attends them. Phil. Behold, receive them, and beseech Envy, that they may not be to you the occasion of so much woe as they have been to me, and him who before me possessed them. Neop. O tlie gods grant it be so, and grant us a prosperous voyage wheresoever God pleases to bear us, and where our ship arrives. Phil. I fear you pray in vain : the blood pours from my wound afresh : I expect some sudden acci- dent will happen. Woe is me ! and woe again ! O foot, what misery dost thou cause me. It comes, the pain approaches : woe is me ! the disease con- tinues, forsake me not. Alas ! I wish this pain were fixed deep in thy breast, Ulysses. O ye two chiefs, Agamemnon and Menelaus, how could ye so long bear this distemper for my sake, nor banish me be- fore ? Woe is me ! O death ! death ! why thus per- petually called upon every day, canst thou not come ? O noble youth, consume me with this fire that bums in Lemnos, as once I did the son of Jove that service for this armour. What sayest thou, son ? Why art thou silent ? Where do thy thoughts wan- der ? Neop, I mourn and lament thy sufferings. Phil, O son, be of good courage, as it comes PHILOCTETES. 359 quick so it returns ; but I beseech you leave me not alone. Neop. Fear not, well stay. Phil. Wilt thou stay ? Neop. Assure yourself of it. Phil. Then I think it is improper to bind thee by oath. Neop. It is not just that I go away without you. Phil. Give me thy hand for a pledge of thy faith. Neop. I do engage my promise ; I will stay. Phil. This way, now this way. Neop. Which way sayest thou ? Phii. Upwards. Neop. Why dost thou rave again? Why dost thou look toward the sky ? ' Phil. Let me go, let me go. Neop. Whither ? Phil. Let me o'o. Neop. I say I will not let thee go. Phil. Thou wilt kill me, if thou touchest me. Neop. I let thee alone, now how much wiser art thou? Phil. O earth, receive a dying man as I am, for my disease [he falls asleep] suffers me no more to raise myself. Neop. It is likely that sleep will soon seize the man, his head is reclined, sweat bedews all his whole body, and in the sole of his foot a black vein is broke: but let us suffer him, friends, so to lie quiet, until he falls asleep. ACT IV. SCENE II. Chorus, Neoptolemus. Cho. O sleep, w liom no pain nor grief can hurt ; raayest thou, O king! who makest our life happy, 360 PHILOCTETES. now favour us, and close his eyes in that darkness which now covers him. Come now, thou physi- cian, sleep. O son, consider now where you will stay or go, or what counsel dost thou think to take? or what shall we stay for ; opportunity, which over- comes the best counsels, now gives us great power. Neop. He hears nothing; but I perceive that in vain we pursue our prey with arrows, without him to sail with us ; the crown of victory must be from him; the god commanded to take him away: to make vain promises, even to the false, is a reproach- ful thing. Antistrophe. Cho. The gods will see all; but of whatsoever you would answer me again, let your discourse be short; for in a distemper all men's sleep is fleeting, so that they may look behind. Consider then what is the most convenient thing you can do, and ponder with yourself what you will resolve upon. Know- est thou of whom I speak? If thou hadst the same opinion with him, (i. e. Ulysses) thou wouldst take him away. Even the prudent find some difficulties to know what to do in doubtful cases. Epodos. The wind blow s fair ; his eyes are closed ; he hath no power to help himself^ but lies involved ui darkness. This warm sleep is good for us, and he is neither master of his hands or feet ; but he looks, he sees, he speaks like one drawing near his death : it is my care to take him. A deed done without fear is the noblest. ACT IV. SCENE III. Neoptolemus, Philoctetes, Chorus, Neop. Be silent, nor let your courage fail. He moves his eyes, and raises his head. PHILOCTETES. 361 PML O light! sleep's successor, faithless guar- dian of my hopes, and these strangers; I never had thought it, that you could with pity bear my sad sufferings, continuing and assisting me. The Atridae, those good princes, could not easily bear that ; but thou art of a generous nature, and art born of generous parents, therefore easily didst bear it, though infested with my noise and ill-sa- vour. But now, since there is some intermission and rest from the disease, thou raise me up, and set me standing ; that since my weakness hath left me, we may go to the ship, and not delay our sailing. Neop. I rejoice that I see you, beyond my hope, free from pain, alive, and breathing ; for there were some signs of thee which appeared and signified thy death ; but now raise thyself. But, if it please thee better, these will bear thee; the labour will not grieve them, since it pleaseth both of us that they should do it. I^hil, I like that: then raise me up, since it is thy pleasure ; but let them go, lest they be offended with the ill-savour too soon ; for it will be trouble enough for them to live with me in the ship. Neop. Be it so ; then stand up and support thy- self. Phil. Fear not, I will raise myself according to my usual manner. Neop. ' Woe is me ! what shall I do ? Phil. What is that? What speech was it thou hast dropped? Neop. I know not how to direct my doubting judgment. Phil. What dost thou doubt of? Wilt thou not tell me? * Woe is me! what shall I?] Here Neoptolemus is uneasy, knowing with himself that he was about to deceive Pltiloctetes contrary to his natural disposition, and bring him to Troy, not to his country, as he had promised to do. 362 PHILOCTETES. Neop. It is there I am perplexed with doubting. Phil. Doth the difficulty of bearing* my disease thus move thee, that thou wilt not take me a com- panion of thy voyage? Neop, All things are difficult, when any forsaking his own nature, doth things that ai-e unseemly. Phil. Thou neither dost nor sayest ought un- worthy of thy father, while thou dost assist a good man. Neop. I shall shew myself vile ; it is that dis- turbs me. Phil. But not in what you say or do ; yet I doubt. Neop. O Jove! what shall I do? I shall be twice caught in my vileness, in concealing what I ought not, and speaking most wicked words. Phil. This man, unless I am mistaken in my opinion, thinks to betray me, and, leaving me, to sail away. Neop. I will not leave thee; but, rather lest with gi'ief to thee, I take thee ; it is that which grieves me. Phil. What sayest thou? I understand thee not. Neop. I will conceal nought from thee : thou must sail to Troy, to the Grecians, and the army of the Atridse. Phil. Ah me! What hast thou said ? Neop. Do not lament before you know. Phil. Know what ? How dost thou think to do with me ? Neop. First to ease you of your disease, then to go and destroy the Trojan land. Phil. And dost thou think to do so ? Neop. Great necessity enforces it ; wherefore be not angry, though now thou hast heard this. Phil. I am undone, a wretch, betrayed. O stranger, what hast thou done to me ? Deliver me my bow with speed. Neop. But it is not fit I should ; both law and interest oblige me to obey those in power. PHILOCTETES. 363 Phil. " O fire and every terror, most odious frau- dulent contrivance, what hast thou done to me? How hast thou deceived me ? Art thou not ashamed to see me thy suppliant prostrate at thy feet? O cruel man, in taking away my bow, thou hast taken my life. Restore me them I beseech thee, restore me them, by my father's gods, " take not away my life. Ah me, a wretch ! thou answerest me not, but he looks as if he would never restore them. O ye ports and promontories ! O commerce, with mountainous beasts, and uneven rocks, I speak this to you ; I have none else to speak to. I complain to you, you who were wont to hear my complaints, what the son of Achilles hath done to me. After he hath sworn to bring me home, he prepares to bring me back to Troy ; and, after he gave his hand in pledge of his truth, hath taken away my bow, which Hercules, the son of Jove, hath given me, and will deliver me to the Grecians, as though he had overcome me, a brave man, by force : nor doth he know that he kills one already dead, or a vain shadow, a mere image. He could not have taken me had I my strength ; since even as I am, he took me not but by fraud. But now, unhappy man, I am deceived ; what must I do ? Restore them to me: still be like thyself. What sayest thou? Art thou silent? I am undone, a wretch ! O rock with a double door, again I return to thee naked, and destitute of food. Alone I shall die in this cave, nor shall I kill any winged fowl, or wild beast of the mountains with my bow ; but dead myself, a wretch! I shall be food for " Ofire and every terror.'] Gr. 5 vv^ a-v. Spoken in allusion to Pyrrhus, one of Neoptolemus's names. ^ Take not aivay my life.] Gr. rov ^iov ^v ij(,' d(peXYiq. A pretty al- lusion in the Greek, though it is not discerned in any other lan- guage. For 0'ioq, life, is likewise Greek for a bow, the accent being changed thus ^lo?. Yet this is scarcely grave enough for this kind of poem, as I have noted in the tragedy of Ajax, 364 IPHILOCTETES, those I fed upon ; and those I hunted before will hunt me now, and I shall repay my death as a re- compense for theirs. This I have from him who seemed to think no ill. Yet, perish not before I know if thou wilt change thy mind ; but if not, may est thou miserably die. Cho, What shall we do, O king? It is in thy power either to sail away, or obey his words. Neop. Much pity for this man invades my breast, not now the first time, but before likewise. Phil. Pity me, by the gods, nor make thyself a reproach to mankind by deceiving me. Neop. Woe is me ! what shall I do ? Would I had never left Scyros ; these things so afflict me. Phil. Thou art not bad thyself, but art instructed by base men for these vile deeds ; but now exercise those arts upon others who deserve it. Deliver me my armour, then sail away. Neop. What must we do, my companions? ACT IV. SCENE IV. Ulysses, Philocfetes, Neoptolemus, Chorus. Ulys. Thou worst of slaves, wilt thou not leave this bow with me ? Phil, Ah me! who is this? Do I hear Ulysses? Ulys. It is him, be well assured of that; him whom you see. Phil. Woe is me ! I am sold, I am lost, undone. This is he who circumvented me, and stripped me of my armour. Ulys. It was I, and none else ; I own it. Phil. O son, quit my bow, return it to me. Ulys. Thou shalt not do that, though thou shouldst desire it. \to Neoptolemus.^ But thou PHILOCTETES. 366 must go with thy armour, or they will take thee by ^ force. Phil. Thou most vile audacious slave ! will they take me by force? UI2/S. Aye, unless thou goest freely. Phil. O land of Lemnos, and thou invincible light of Vulcan's fire! Are such things tolerable, as that he should bear me hence by violence ? Ul^s. That you may know it, it is Jove who rules this land, by whom this was decreed ; I am but minister of that decree. PhiL O villain, what hast thou found out to say ? Dost thou pretend the gods, and make them liars. Uli/s, No, but true ; thou must go this way. Phil. But I say I will not. Uli/s. But I affirm it ; you must obey. Phil, Woe is me ! It is plain then my father begat me a slave, not a free man. UIt/s. No slave, but equal with the greatest princes with whom thou must take Troy, and destroy it by force. Phil, It shall never be, though I suffer the worst of evils, while I have this deep cave to contain me. Uli/s. What would st thou do? Phil. I will dash my head in pieces against this rock, then fall down headlong from it. UIt/s. Lay hands upon him ; let not that be in his power. [Ulysses's followers bind Philoctetes. Phil. O hands! what you endure for want of your beloved bow, bound by this man! O thou who, in thy thoughts, contrivest nothing, either good or worthy a free man ; thou hast deluded me ; how hast thou caught me, by sending this youth suborned by thee, to me unknovm, unworthy to be like thee, but rather me ; who knew how to do nothing, but as he was ordered : and now he seems to bear it with much grief, that he offended me, and that through him I have suffered. But thy base mind, always 366 PHILOCTETES. looking' through coverts, hath well instructed him against liis will, unexpert before in frauds, to be wise in contriving wickedness. And now, having bound me, thinkest thou to take me from this shore, where before tliou didst cast me, destitute of friends, forsaken, an exile, among the living, dead ? Ah ! mayest tliou perish, and this I often wished might be thy fate ; but the gods grant nothing pleas- ing to me. Thou livest joyfully, but I am over- whelmed with woe ; and for this reason, that I live in many troubles derided by thee, and the two generals, sons of Atreus, whom thou servest in these deeds. Thou, for thy craftiness, which they respected, and by necessity their subject, didst sail with them. They, as thou sayest, cast me out a wretch, who willingly sailed hither commander of seven ships ; but they accuse thee. And now why do you bring me hither, and then take me away ? For what cause, who am no more, and, as for your part, am dead long since. Wherefore now, thou most hated of the gods, am I not lame, and ill-sa- voured to you ? How w ill you pray to the gods to consume the sacrifices, if I sail with you? How will you make libations ? For these were your pre- tences to cast me out. O, may you perish who thus have injured me, if the gods respect justice : but I know they do, for you had never sailed hither for the sake of a miserable man, unless some divine instigation, for my sake, had urged you to it. But, O my father's country and guardian gods, punish them all at last, if you commiserate me, who miserably live ; for if I saw them perish, I should think myself free from my disease. Cho. This stranger, Ulysses, is violent, and hath spoken a violent speech, nor doth he sink imder his afflictions. Ulys. I could say many things to him again, if it were convenient for me ; but now one thing I will PHILOCTETES. 36^ say: when there needs such words, I am he that will speak them ; and when there is a trial of just and good men, you shall find none a more righteous judge than me. I am used to overcome in every dispute wherein I am concerned, unless it be against thee ; and now willingly I will submit to thee. Set him free, nor touch him more ; let him stay here : we have no need of thee, since we have these arms. ^ We have Teuciais, who hath skill to use them ; and myself, who think I am not behind thee in handling them, or directing them against a mark. What need, therefore, is there of thee ? Farewell ; do thou tread the land of Lemnos ; but we will go, perhaps thy gift may gain me the honour which is due to thee. Phil. Woe is me ! what shall I do ? Wilt thou, clad in my armour, appear among the Grecians ? Ulys. Contradict me no more ; I go my way. Phil. O son of Achilles, shall I not hear thy voice ? Dost thou go hence ? Ulys. Go thy way, nor look towards him, though thou art noble, lest thou spoil our fortune. Phil. And am I thus forsaken of you, O stran- ger ? Shall I be left, nor will you pity me ? Cho. This is the governor of our ship ; whatever he saith to thee, we say the same likewise. Neop. I am blamed by him, (i. e. Ulysses,) that I am compassionate : yet stay, if it please him, for so long time while the sailors get all things ready for the ship, and we sacrifice to the gods ; perhaps he in that time may change his mind for the better ; then we will launch our ship, and do you come quickly when we call you. ^ We have Teucrus.] Teucriis was particularly famous for his art in throwing darts, as appears botli by this place and another in the Ajax : although Menelaus calls him there to|ot»7? in derision, when he contended with him about the burial of Ajax, in these words: *' This archer seems not to think meanly of himself." 368 PHILOCTETES. ACT IV. SCENE V. Antistrophica Strophe I. PhilocteteSy Chorus. PJiiL O cave in the hollow rock, by turns hot and cold ! I never must leave thee, but thou must serve me as my habitation, until I die. O habitation filled with my woe, what shall I do in my remaining days ? What food shall I get ? What hope will ever cheer me ? O ! I would the ravenous birds would in a mighty wind bear me up through the aii*, for longer I cannot sustain myself. Strophe II. Cho, Thou thyself, unhappy man, hast brought upon thee thy misfortune; it comes not any other way: when it is in thy power to be wiser, and enjoy a better and happier fortune, thou hadst rather be more unhappy. Phil. O wretched me, worn out with sorrow ; who live alone here, forsaken of all men, and shall perish in this den ; nor shall I get more food, or shoot more birds with my bow, and stout hands. But he imposed upon me with the secret unseen fraud of his traitorous mind. Would I could see him who contrived this, for as long time sharing like pains with me. Antistrophe II. Cho. It was the fate of the gods, not the contriv- ance of my hands overcame you ; forbear your in- auspicious, odious, execrations against others ; for that is my care, that you reject not my benevolence. Strophe III. Phil. Woe is me ! now sitting somewhere on the hoary sand of the sea-shore, he laughs at me, bran- dishing in his hands my sustenance, whom none ever before carried. O, lovely bow, extorted out of PHILOCTETES. 369 my hands, sure now if thou hast any thought, thou thinkest it a miserable case, that I should never hereafter use thee as Hercules did. The case is altered, thou art now put into the hands of a deceit- ful man, seest all his frauds, and a man most hated to me; and who, born of vile parents, hath done me innumerable wrongs. Strophe IV. Cho. It is the part of a good man to say the truth, and not to express malicious sorrow with his tongue : for he, being one who was from the army appointed to this business by the counsel of Ulysses, only lent his assistance to his friends. Antistrophe III. Phil. O ye birds, winged prey, and cheerful kind of mountain-wandering beasts, which this countrjf contains, no more approach me with terror at these dens ; for I have not in my hands the strength of my bow, w hich I had before. Ah me, a wretch ! now this place is free and unregarded, and no more terrible to you. Approach, and fill yourselves with my flesh, for recompense of the wounds your flesh received of me. I shall soon leave my life; for whence shall I have necessary food? Who can feed upon the air, who hath nothing which our mother- earth affords ? Antistrophe IV. Cho. Now, by the gods, if thou respectest stran- gers, receive Neoptolemus with all benevolence who joins himself to you; and know well, thou mayest avoid this calamity : he is unwise who chooses to live miserably and endure perpetual sorrow. Phil. Again thou puttest me in mind of my for- mer misfortunes. Why dost thou kill me? Why dost thou so ? Cho. Whv dost thou sav so ? B b .370 PHILOCTETES. Phil. Because thou thinkest to bring me back to hated Troy. Cho. But I think that to be the best. Phil. From henceforth leave me. Cho. With joy I receive thy commands, and shall execute them : we will go to our ship as we are or- dered. Phil. Now, I beseech you, by ^ Jove, revenger of those who supplicate in vain, depart not hence. Cho. Then be more gentle. Phil. O strangers, by the gods, stay. Cho. What sayest thou ? Phil. Alas! alas! I am undone, a wretch. O my foot, what shall I do with you the remaining part of my wretched life. Generous strangers, re- tarn again, I beseech you. Cho. What shall we do, besides what you have already ordered ? Is your mind changed 2 Phil. It is not a fault for him that is afflicted with tumultuous sorrow, to roar like one besides himself. Cho. Go with us now, thou wretch, as we desire thee. Phil. By no means, that shall never be made good, though thimdering fire-bearing Jove, with his thunderbolts, should consume me. May Troy perish, and all those who are at it, who could bear to reject me for the ulcer of my foot. But, O strangers, grant me this petition. Cho. What is that thou sayest ? Phil. If thou hast any sort of armour, give it me. Cho. What slaughter wouldst thou commit ? Phil. I will cut off my head and feet with my hands ; the pain of my disease requires it. ^ Jove, revenger of those who supplicate in vain.] There were among the ancients, as hath been noted, as many Joves to pray to as their several circumstances which they were in: so Jove u^actot;, was he whom they invocated, when they desired a thing earnestly of another. PHILOCTETES. 371 Cho. How? Phil. I will seek my father. Cho. Where? Phil. Among the dead ; for he sees the light no more. O my father s city ! O that I could but be- hold you, who, forsaking your sacred religion, went an assister to the hostile Grecians. CJw. I had gone before to my ship, only that I saw Ulysses, the son of Achilles, coming to us. ACT V. SCENE I. Ulysses, Neoptolemiis, Chorus. XJlys. Will you not tell for what reason you return back so quick ? Neop. To expiate my offences, which before I committed. Ulys. You tell us a sad thing, but what was the offence ? Neop. My obeying thee and the whole army. Ulys. What act hast thou done unworthy of thy- self? Neop. I deceived the man with vile fraud and tricks. Ulys. What, alas! do you design any new thing? Neop. Nothing new but for Philoctetes. Ulys. What wilt thou do? How fear comes upon me? « Neop. From whom I have received this bow, again to him Ulys. O Jove! what sayest thou? Dost thou think to return it? Neop. I received it basely, and not according to justice. Ulys. By the gods, dost thou say this only to torment my heart? B b 2 372 PHILOCTETES. Neop. Ay, if it be a torment to thee to speak truth. Ulys, What say est thou? Neop. Will you have me twice and thrice repeat the same words? Ulys, I had rather hear them not once. Neop. Assure thyself thou hast heard all. Ulys. But there is somebody who will hinder thee from doing that. Neop. What say est thou? Who is there that will hinder me? Ulys. The whole Grecian army and myself. Neop. Though thou art a wise man, thou speakest not wisely. Ulys. Thou neither speakest nor actest wisely. Neop. But, if justly, my actions are better than the most wise contrivances. Ulys. How is it just to return those things again, which you got by my counsel? Neop. I have committed a base fault, and that I will endeavour to undo. Ulys. Dost thou not fear the army of the Grecians that thou darest do this ? Neop. When I do justice, I fear not like thee ; nor do I think they will make me fear by your power. Ulys. Therefore we will not fight with the Tro- jans, but thee. Neop. Come what will. Ulys. Seest thou my right hand upon the hilt of my sword ? • Neop. And thou shalt see me do the like without delay. Ulys. But I will let thee alone, and tell this to all the Grecians, who will punish thee. Neop Thou art wise, and if hereafter thou will always be wise, thou mayest lead a life free fi-om sorrow. But thou, O son of Pcean, come out, and leave thy rocky cave. PHILOCTETES. 373 actV. scene II. Philoctetesy Neoptolemus, Ulysses. Phil. What clamorous noise is this before my den? Why do you call me out? What, strangers, do you want? Alas! why will you add more evils to my former? Neop. Be of good courage, hear what I say to thee. Phil. I fear, alas ! for I have suffered before by fair speeches, when I was persuaded by thee, Neop. But may not one repent? Phil. Such a faithful man before thou didst feign thyself to be ; but privately wast my enemy, when thou didst rob me of my bow. Neop. But now I am not, but would know of thee whether thou wilt stay here or sail along with us. Phil. Cease, speak no more, for whatsoever thou sayest will be said in vain. Neop. Art thou so determined? Phil. And beyond what I speak. Neop. I would have thee be persuaded by my words; but, if I speak not seasonably, I will be silent. Phil. It will all be said in vain, thou wilt never find my mind well disposed towards thee, who hast taken away my life by frauds, and now thou comest to admdnish me, the most traiterous son of the best of fathers. First may the Atridae perish, then the son of Laertes, and lastly thou. Neop. Curse no more, but receive these arrows of my hands. PhiL How say est thou ; am I deceived a second time? Neop. I have swore it by the supreme deity of Jove. 374 PHILOCTETES. Phil. Most sweet words, if what thou sayest he true. Neop. The truth shall be made appear ; extend thy right hand and take hold of thy armour. Ulys. I forbid it, (witness the gods,) in the name of the Atridae, and the whole army. Phil. O son, whose voice is this ? Do I hear Ulysses ? Ulys. Be assured of it, thou seest him near who will bring thee to Troy by force, whether the son of Achilles will or not. Phil. But thou shalt have no reason to rejoice, if this arrow be rightly directed. Neop. Ah ! by no means, I beseech thee, by the gods, cast not forth thy arrow. Phil. I beseech thee let go my hand. Neop. I cannot let thee go. Phil. Why wilt thou hinder me from killing with my arrows one who is my enemy ? Neop. That would be neither for my good, nor yours. Phil. This be well assured of, that the chiefs af the Grecian army are vain talkers, bold in words, but cowards in fight. Neop. Be it so ; thou hast thy bow, and canst not accuse or be angry with me. Phil. I own it, thou hast shewn thy natural dis- position, that thou art not descended of a deceitful Sisyphus, but Achilles ; who, while he was among the living, was always praised, and now is praised among the dead. Neop. 1 am glad thou praisest my father and me. Now hear what I would have thee do. It is neces- sary that all men should bear those fortunes which are allotted them by the gods ; but those who are oppressed by voluntary sufferings, as thou art, de- serve no pardon nor pity. But thou art so fierce that thou wilt admit of none to counsel thee. And PHILOCTETES. ' 375 if any one out of benevolence admonishes thee, thou hatest him, and lookest on him as thy cruel enemy. Yet will I speak : I call Jove, thepunisher of perjury, for my witness ; know this, and write it in thy mind, it is by divine appointment thou suf- ferest this disease, when thou didst approach the unseen serpent, who guarded the open temple of Minerva ; and know that thou wilt never find a re- medy for this grievous disease, as long as this sun riseth here and sets again, ere thou goest to Troy, and there, meeting with the sons of -i^sculapius, who are with us, thou art healed by them of thy disease; and with me and those darts overthrowest Troy. I will tell thee how I know this to be true. There is a certain Trojan, taken by us, his name is Helenus, an excellent prophet, who plainly says it must be so. And, moreover, added, that of ne- cessity this summer Troy must be taken, and free- ly gives us leave to kill him if he speaks false. Therefore, since thou knowest this, submit freely ; it is a noble treasure to be reckoned most excellent of all the Grecians. Then by a physician to be healed of thy disease; then, by taking miserable Troy, to obtain supreme glory. Phil. O hated life ! why dost thou suffer me to live here, nor wilt dismiss me to my grave? Ah me! What shall I do ? How shall I distrust his words who in benevolence exhorts me? Shall I submit? But, if I do, how shall I ever hereafter behold the light ? To whom shall I call ? O ye celestial orbits who encompass and behold all things, can you endure this, that I should be with the sons of Atreus who have undone me, and the pernicious son of Laertes? For the grief of those things that are past do not so much torment me ; but what I must still suffer from them, my imagination represents before my eyes. For those who have a corrupt mind do every thing agreeably thereto. But I wonder at 376 PHILOGTETES. thee, for thou neither oughtest to go to Troy thyself, but to hinder me from going, since they have injured thee, robbing thee of thy father s honour, and in the trial for his armour, rejected wretched Ajax, and judged them to Ulysses. Such are they thou goest to help, and wouldst force me to it. No, my son, but lead me into my country, as thou hast sworn ; and thyself resting in Scyros, suffer them miserably to perish : so shalt thou receive double thanks of me and of my father; and not, by helping base men, seem yourself to be like them. Neop. Thou sayest right, yet I would have thee believe the gods and my speeches; and, together with my present friend, sail out of this land. Phil, What ! to Troy, and the hated son of Atreus ? Neop. To them indeed, but yet to those who will heal thy corrupted foot, and free thee from thy disease. Phil. O most afflicting wojds ! What sayest thou? Neop. What is convenient for both of us. Phil. In saying thus dost thou not reproach the gods? Neop. I reproach not those whom I assist. Phil. Sayest thou it is an advantage to the Atridae or to me ? Neop. To thee, since I am thy friend, and so are my words, too, friendly. Phil. How ? Since thou wouldst betray me to my enemies. Neop. O my friend, learn in adversity to be humble. Phil. Thou killest me; I understand thee and thy words. Neop. Nay ; but I say thou dost not understand. Phil. I know that the Atridae have banished me. Neop. But what if they have banished thee; they will again restore thee. Phil. Not by willingly returning to Troy. PHILOCTETES. 37*^ Neop. What then shall I do ? If my words are of such small force in persuading thee, nought re- mains but that I hold my peace, and suffer thee to live as thou dost, without cure. Phil. Let me suffer my allotted portion of afflic- tions ; but what thou didst promise, and to confirm thy promise didst give me thy hand, that thou wouldst safely conduct me to my country, that I would hate thee perform. Nor think more of Troy ; for I have lamented enough. Troch.^. Neop. If that please thee, then let us go. Phil. O sweet words. Neop. Now stand firmly on thy feet. Phil. As well as I can. Neop. But how shall I escape the accusation of the Grecians ? Phil. Regard not that. Neop. But what if they destroy my country? Phil. I will help. Neop. How^ wilt thou assist ? Phil. With the arrows of Hercules. Neop. What say est thou ? Phil. I will hinder them from invading thy coua- try. Neop. If thou wilt do as thou say est, come and salute the earth. ACT V. SCENE THE LAST. Hercules descends, and hangs in the air, borne upon a cloud. Her. O son of Paeas, go not hence ere thou hearest my words, and knowest that it is the voice of Hercules thou hearest, and his presence which 378 PHILOCTETES. thou seest. It is for thy sake I come, leaving my celestial mansions, to speak to thee great Jove's de- crees, and to hinder thee from going the way thou art in : therefore, hear my words. First of all, I will tell you the whole series of my fortunes. After many toils and labours I have at last obtained immortal honour, as thou mayest see : and be well assured it is ordained, that thou must suffer the same, and by thy toils gain a glorious life, by going along with this man to the city of Troy. First, thou shalt be healed of thy sad disease, and for thy virtue shalt be honoured above all the rest of the army ; shalt, with my darts, slay Paris, who was the cause of all these evils ; shalt lay Troy waste, and shall send home the spoils thereof, the purchase of thy virtue, chosen out for thee in the army, to thy father, Pseas, to the land of Oeta. But some of the .spoils thou receivest from the army, thou shalt bear and lay them as monuments at my funeral pile. Moreover, son of Achilles, I give thee this precaution, that thou neither canst take Troy without him, nor he without thee ; but, as two lions that pasture together, do thou guard him, and he shall thee. I will send ^sculapius to Ilium, who will heal thee of thy sore; it must be over- come the second time with my arrows. But when thou layest waste the land ^ remember * Remember to revere all sacred things.] This precept was broke by Neoptolemus, who slew Priamus when he fled for sanc- tuary to the altar of Jupiter Herkius ; as likewise by Ajax Oileus, impiously violating Cassandra, daughter of Priamus, at the altar of Pallas ; wherefore, in his return from Troy, his ship was split by a tempest, and himself, after he had swam to a rock, was struck dead with thunder. Horace says, that Pallas was so en- raged at the impiety of that act, that she turned all her anger, which she had before bore against Troy, against Ajax's ship. Cum Pallas usto vertit iram ah Ilio, In ipiam AJacis ratem. PRILOCTETES. 379 to revere all sacred things. Jove esteems all things inferior to them, for the piety of men dies not with them, but whether they live or die, that is immor- tal. Phil. O charming voice, which now after long time appearing, thou hast sent me, I will not dis- obey thy counsels. Neop. And I will submit to thy opinion. Her. Delay not, therefore ; the proper season calls, and at the very ship's stern provokes your sailing. Phil. Go, therefore, salute this land. Farewell, O house, my constant keeper, the nymphs of the marshes, and the hideous noise of the rising seas, where oftentimes my head within my cave was wet with the battering wind-driven showers, and often- times the mount sacred to Mercury echoed back to me my reiterated mourning voice, when I was tem- pest-beaten. And now, O fountains and sweet wa- ters, I forsake you, which thing I never thought of. Farewell, O land of Lemnos, near the sea, dismiss me with a prosperous voyage, where resistless fate calls me, the will of my friends, and the invincible god which brought these things thus to pass. Cho. Now let us go all together, beseeching the nymphs of the sea safely to conduct us in our voyage. THE END. MARCH ANT, Printer, Ingram-Court, Fenchurch-Street. BOOKS LATEfeLY PUBLISHED BY T. & J. 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