Dramatis Personae

Sophocles Antigone Dramatis Personae ANTIGONE: daughter of Oedipus. Have you heard? Or have you just missed the ISMENE: daughter of Oedipus, sister of Antigone news? CREON: king of Thebes Dishonours which better fit our enemies EURYDICE: wife of Creon are now being piled up on the ones we HAEMON: son of Creon and Euridice, engaged to love. [10] Antigone. ISMENE TEIRESIAS: an old blind prophet I’ve had no word at all, Antigone, BOY: a young lad guiding Teiresias nothing good or bad about our family, GUARD: a soldier serving Creon. not since we two lost both our brothers, MESSENGER killed on the same day by a double blow. CHORUS: Theban Elders And since the Argive army, just last night, ATTENDANTS has gone away, I don’t know any more [In Thebes, directly in front of the royal palace, which if I’ve been lucky or face total stands in the background, its main doors facing the ruin. 20 audience. ANTIGONE Enter Antigone leading Ismene away from the palace] I know that. That’s why I brought you here, ANTIGONE outside the gates, so only you can hear. Now, dear Ismene, my own blood sister, ISMENE do you have any sense of all the troubles What is it? The way you look makes it Zeus keeps bringing on the two of us, seem [20] as long as we’re alive? All that misery you’re thinking of some dark and gloomy news. which stems from Oedipus? There’s no suffering, no shame, no ruin—not one dishonour— ANTIGONE which I have not seen in all the troubles Look—what’s Creon doing with our two you and I go through. What’s this they’re saying brothers? now, He’s honouring one with a full funeral something our general has had proclaimed and treating the other one disgracefully! throughout the city? Do you know of Eteocles, they say, has had his burial it? 10 according to our customary rites, to win him honour with the dead work? below. 30 What do you mean? But as for Polyneices, who perished ANTIGONE so miserably, an order has gone out Will you help these throughout the city—that’s what people say. hands He’s to have no funeral or lament, take up Polyneices’ corpse and bury it? but to be left unburied and unwept, a sweet treasure for the birds to look at, ISMENE for them to feed on to their heart’s What? You’re going to bury Polyneices, content. [30] when that’s been made a crime for all in Thebes? That’s what people say the noble Creon ANTIGONE has announced to you and me—I mean to me— Yes. I’ll do my duty to my brother— and now he’s coming to proclaim the and yours as well, if you’re not prepared to. fact, 40 I won’t be caught betraying him. to state it clearly to those who have not heard. ISMENE For Creon this matter’s really serious. You’re too Anyone who acts against the order rash. will be stoned to death before the city. Has Creon not expressly banned that Now you know, and you’ll quickly demonstrate act? 60 whether you are nobly born, or else a girl unworthy of her splendid ancestors. ANTIGONE Yes. But he’s no right to keep me from what’s ISMENE mine. Oh my poor sister, if that’s what’s happening, what can I say that would be any help ISMENE to ease the situation or resolve O dear. Think, Antigone. Consider it? 50 [40] how our father died, hated and disgraced, [50] ANTIGONE when those mistakes which his own search Think whether you will work with me in this revealed and act together. forced him to turn his hand against himself ISMENE and stab out both his eyes. Then that woman, In what kind of his mother and his wife—her double role— destroyed her own life in a twisted noose. Then there’s our own two brothers, both well, if you wish, you can show contempt butchered for those laws the gods all hold in honour. in a single day—that ill-fated ISMENE pair 70 I’m not disrespecting them. But I can’t act with their own hands slaughtered one another against the state. That’s not in my nature. and brought about their common doom. Now, the two of us are left here quite alone. ANTIGONE Think how we’ll die far worse than all the rest, Let that be your excuse. I’m going if we defy the law and move now [80] against [60] to make a burial mound for my dear the king’s decree, against his royal power. brother. 100 We must remember that by birth we’re women, ISMENE and, as such, we shouldn’t fight with men. Oh poor Antigone, I’m so afraid for you. Since those who rule are much more powerful, ANTIGONE we must obey in this and in Don’t fear for me. Set your own fate in order. events 80 which bring us even harsher agonies. ISMENE So I’ll ask those underground for pardon— Make sure you don’t reveal to anyone since I’m being compelled, I will obey what you intend. Keep it closely hidden. those in control. That’s what I’m forced to do. I’ll do the same. It makes no sense to try to do too much. ANTIGONE ANTIGONE No, no. Announce the fact— I wouldn’t urge you to. No. Not even if you don’t let everybody know, if you were keen to act. Doing this with you I’ll despise your silence even more. would bring me no joy. So be what you ISMENE want. [70] Your heart is hot to do cold deeds. I’ll still bury him. It would be fine to die ANTIGONE while doing that. I’ll lie there with But I know him, 90 I’ll please the ones I’m duty bound to please. with a man I love, pure and innocent, for all my crime. My honours for the dead ISMENE must last much longer than for those up here. Yes, if you can. But you’re after I’ll lie down there forever. As for you, something 110 [90] who marched here fully which you’re incapable of carrying out. armed, 130 ANTIGONE now forced back by your sharper power. Well, when my strength is gone, then I’ll give up. CHORUS LEADER ISMENE Against our land he A vain attempt should not be made at all. marched, [110] sent here by the warring claims ANTIGONE of Polyneices, with piercing screams, I’ll hate you if you’re going to talk that way. an eagle flying above our land, And you’ll rightly earn the loathing of the dead. covered wings as white as snow, So leave me and my foolishness alone— and hordes of warriors in arms, we’ll get through this fearful thing. I won’t suffer helmets topped with horsehair crests. anything as bad as a disgraceful death. CHORUS ISMENE Standing above our homes, All right then, go, if that’s what you think right. he ranged around our seven But remember this—even though your gates, 140 mission 120 with threats to swallow us makes no sense, your friends do truly love you. and spears thirsting to kill. [Exit Antigone away from the palace. Ismene watches Before his jaws had had their her go and then returns slowly fill [120] into the palace. Enter the Chorus of Theban elders] and gorged themselves on Theban blood, before Hephaistos’ pine-torch flames CHORUS had seized our towers, our fortress crown,* O ray of he went back, driven in retreat. sunlight, Behind him rings the din of war— [100] his enemy, the Theban dragon-snake, most beautiful that ever shone too difficult for him to on Thebes, city of the seven gates, overcome. 150 you’ve appeared at last, you glowing eye of golden day, CHORUS LEADER moving above the streams of Dirce,* Zeus hates an arrogant boasting tongue. driving into headlong flight Seeing them march here in a mighty stream, the white-shield warrior from Argos, in all their clanging golden pride, [130] with songs and dancing all night long, he hurled his fire and struck the man, with Bacchus leading us to make Thebes shake. up there, on our battlements, as he began [The palace doors are thrown open and guards appear to scream aloud his victory. at the doors] CHORUS CHORUS LEADER The man swung down, torch still in hand, But here comes Creon, new king of our land, and smashed into unyielding earth— son of Menoikeos. Thanks to the the one who not so long ago attacked, gods, 180 who launched his furious, enraged who’ve brought about our new good fortune. assault, 160 What plan of action does he have in mind? to blast us, breathing raging storms. What’s made him hold this special But things turned out not as he’d hoped. meeting, [160] Great war god Ares assisted us— with elders summoned by a general call? he smashed them down and doomed them all [140] [Enter Creon from the palace. He addresses the to a very different fate. assembled elders] CHORUS LEADER CREON Seven captains at seven gates Men, after much tossing of our ship of state, matched against seven equal warriors the gods have safely set things right again. paid Zeus their full bronze tribute, Of all the citizens I’ve summoned you, the god who turns the battle tide, because I know how well you showed respect all but that pair of wretched for the eternal power of the throne, men, 170 first with Laius and again with born of one father and one mother, too— Oedipus, 190 who set their conquering spears against each once he restored our city.* When he died, other you stood by his children, firm in loyalty. and then both shared a common death. Now his sons have perished in a single day, killing each other with their own two hands, CHORUS a double slaughter, stained with brother’s Now victory with her glorious name blood. [170] has come, bringing joy to well-armed Thebes. And so I have the throne, all royal power, The battle’s done—let’s strive now to for I’m the one most closely linked by blood forget [150] to those who have been killed. It’s impossible to really know a man, to know his soul, that Polyneices, who returned from exile, his mind and will, before one eager to wipe out in all-consuming witnesses 200 fire [200] his skill in governing and making laws. his ancestral city and its native gods, For me, a man who rules the entire state keen to seize upon his family’s and does not take the best advice there is, blood 230 but through fear keeps his mouth forever and lead men into slavery—for him, shut, [180] the proclamation in the state declares such a man is the very worst of men— he’ll have no burial mound, no funeral rites, and always will be. And a man who thinks and no lament. He’ll be left unburied, more highly of a friend than of his country, his body there for birds and dogs to eat, well, he means nothing to me. Let Zeus know, a clear reminder of his shameful fate. the god who always watches everything, That’s my decision. For I’ll never act I would not stay silent if I saw to respect an evil man with honours disaster 210 in preference to a man who’s acted well. moving here against the citizens, Anyone who’s well disposed towards our a threat to their security. For anyone state, 240 who acts against the state, its enemy, alive or dead, that man I will I’d never make my friend. For I know well respect. [210] our country is a ship which keeps us safe, CHORUS LEADER and only when it sails its proper Son of Menoikeos, if that’s your will course [190] for this city’s friends and enemies, do we make friends. These are the principles it seems to me you now control all laws I’ll use in order to protect our state. concerning those who’ve died and us as well— That’s why I’ve announced to all citizens the ones who are still living. my orders for the sons of Oedipus — 220 CREON Eteocles, who perished in the fight See to it then, to save our city, the best and bravest and act as guardians of what’s been proclaimed. of our spearmen, will have his burial, CHORUS with all those purifying rituals Give that task to younger men to deal with. which accompany the noblest corpses, CREON as they move below. As for his brother— There are men assigned to oversee the corpse. CHORUS LEADER I’ll say it nonetheless. For I’ve come here Then what remains that you would have us clinging to the hope that I’ll not suffer do? 250 anything that’s not part of my destiny. CREON CREON Don’t yield to those who contravene my orders. What’s happening that’s made you so upset? CHORUS LEADER: No one is such a fool that he GUARD loves death. [220] I want to tell you first about myself. CREON I did not do it. And I didn’t see Yes, that will be his full reward, indeed. the one who did. So it would be unjust And yet men have often been destroyed if I should come to because they hoped to profit in some way. grief. [240] [Enter a guard, coming towards the palace] CREON You hedge so GUARD much. My lord, I can’t say I’ve come out of breath Clearly you have news of something ominous. by running here, making my feet move fast. Many times I stopped to think things over— GUARD and then I’d turn around, retrace my steps. Yes. Strange things that make me pause a My mind was saying many things to lot. 280 me, 260 CREON "You fool, why go to where you know for sure Why not say it and then go—just leave. your punishment awaits?"—"And now, poor GUARD man, All right, I’ll tell you. It’s about the corpse. why are you hesitating yet again? Someone has buried it and disappeared, If Creon finds this out from someone after spreading thirsty dust onto the flesh else, [230] and undertaking all appropriate rites. how will you escape being hurt?" Such matters kept my mind preoccupied. And so I went, CREON slowly and reluctantly, and thus made What are you saying? What man would dare this? a short road turn into a lengthy one. GUARD But then the view that I should come to you I don’t know. There was no sign of digging, won out. If what I have to say is no marks of any pick axe or a nothing, 270 mattock. [250] The ground was dry and hard and very smooth, I was the unlucky man who won the prize, without a wheel track. Whoever did the luck of the draw. That’s why I’m now here, it 290 not of my own free will or by your choice. left no trace. When the first man on day watch I know that—for no one likes a revealed it to us, we were all amazed. messenger 320 The corpse was hidden, but not in a tomb. who comes bearing unwelcome news with him. It was lightly covered up with dirt, CHORUS LEADER as if someone wanted to avert a curse. My lord, I’ve been wondering for some time now There was no trace of a wild animal — or dogs who’d come to rip the corpse apart. could this act not be something from the gods? Then the words flew round among us all, with every guard accusing someone CREON else. [260] Stop now—before what you’re about to We were about to fight, to come to blows say [280] — 300 enrages me completely and reveals no one was there to put a stop to it. that you’re not only old but stupid, too. Every one of us was responsible, No one can tolerate what you’ve just said, but none of us was clearly in the wrong. when you claim gods might care about this In our defence we pleaded ignorance. corpse. Then we each stated we were quite prepared Would they pay extraordinary honours to pick up red-hot iron, walk through flames, and bury as a man who’d served them or swear by all the gods that we’d not done it, well 330 we’d no idea how the act was planned, someone who came to burn their offerings, or how it had been carried out. At last, their pillared temples, to torch their lands when all our searching had proved and scatter all its laws? Or do you see useless, 310 gods paying respect to evil men? No, no. one man spoke up, and his words forced us all For quite a while some people in the town to drop our faces to the ground in have secretly been muttering against fear. [270] me. [290] We couldn’t see things working out for us, They don’t agree with what I have decreed. whether we agreed or disagreed with him. They shake their heads and have not kept their He said we must report this act to you— necks we must not hide it. And his view prevailed. under my yoke, as they are duty bound to do if they were men who are content with me. 340 GUARD I well know that these guards were led astray— Do I have your permission to speak now, such men urged them to carry out this act or do I just turn around and go away? for money. To foster evil actions, CREON to make them commonplace among all men, But I find your voice so irritating— nothing is as powerful as money. don’t you realize that? It destroys cities, driving men from home. Money trains and twists the minds in worthy GUARD men, Where does it so they then undertake disgraceful acts. hurt? 370 Money teaches men to live as Is it in your ears or in your mind? scoundrels, [300] CREON familiar with every profane Why try to question where I feel my pain? enterprise. 350 GUARD But those who carry out such acts for cash The man who did it—he upsets your mind. sooner or later see how for their crimes I offend your ears. they pay the penalty. For if great Zeus still has my respect, then understand this— CREON I swear to you on oath—unless you find My, my, it’s clear to see the one whose hands really buried him, it's natural for you to chatter unless you bring him here before my eyes, on. [320] then death for you will never be enough. GUARD No, not before you’re hung up still alive Perhaps. But I never did this. and you confess to this gross, violent CREON act. 360 This and more— That way you’ll understand in future you sold your life for silver. days, [310] when there’s a profit to be gained from theft, GUARD you’ll learn that it’s not good to be in love How strange and sad with every kind of monetary gain. when the one who sorts this out gets it all wrong. You’ll know more men are ruined than are saved CREON: Well, enjoy your sophisticated views. when they earn profits from dishonest schemes. But if you don’t reveal to me who did this, 380 you’ll just confirm how much your treasonous ferocious beasts roaming mountain gains heights. [350] have made you suffer. He curbs the rough-haired horses with his bit [Exit Creon back into the palace. The doors close and tames the inexhaustible mountain bulls, behind him] setting their savage necks beneath his yoke. GUARD He’s taught himself speech and wind-swift Well, I hope he’s found. thought, That would be best. But whether caught or not— trained his feelings for communal civic life, and that’s something sheer chance will bring learning to escape the icy shafts of frost, about— volleys of pelting rain in winter storms, you won’t see me coming here again. the harsh life lived under the open sky. This time, against all hope and That’s man—so resourceful in all he expectation, [330] does. 410 [360] I’m still unhurt. I owe the gods great thanks. There’s no event his skill cannot confront— other than death—that alone he cannot shun, [Exit the Guard away from the palace] although for many baffling sicknesses CHORUS he has discovered his own remedies. There are many strange and wonderful things, The qualities of his inventive skills but nothing more strangely wonderful than man. bring arts beyond his dreams and lead him on, He moves across the white-capped ocean sometimes to evil and sometimes to good. seas 390 If he treats his country’s laws with due respect blasted by winter storms, carving his way and honours justice by swearing on the gods, under the surging waves engulfing him. he wins high honours in his With his teams of horses he wears down city. 420 the unwearied and immortal earth, But when he grows bold and turns to the oldest of the gods, harassing her, evil, [370] as year by year his ploughs move back and then he has no city. A man like that— forth. [340] let him not share my home or know my mind. He snares the light-winged flocks of birds, [Enter the Guard, bringing Antigone with him. She is herds of wild beasts, creatures from deep seas, not resisting] trapped in the fine mesh of his hunting nets. O resourceful man, whose skill can CHORUS LEADER overcome 400 What this? I fear some omen from the gods. I can’t deny what I see here so clearly— But there’s no joy as great as what we pray for that young girl there—it’s Antigone. against all hope. And so I have come back, Oh you poor girl, daughter of Oedipus, breaking that oath I swore. I bring this girl, child of a such a father, so unfortunate, captured while she was honouring the grave. what’s going on? Surely they’ve not brought you This time we did not draw lots. No. This time here I was the lucky man, not someone else. because you’ve disobeyed the royal And now, my lord, take her for questioning. laws, 430 Convict her. Do as you wish. As for me, because they’ve caught you acting by rights I’m free and clear of all this foolishly? [380] trouble. 450 [400] GUARD CREON This here’s the one who carried out the act. This girl here—how did you catch her? And We caught her as she was burying the corpse. where? Where’s Creon? GUARD [The palace doors open. Enter Creon with attendants] She was burying that man. Now you know CHORUS LEADER all there is to know. He’s coming from the CREON house— Do you and just in time. understand CREON just what you’re saying? Are your words the Why have I come "just in time"? truth? What’s happening? What is it? GUARD GUARD We saw this girl giving that dead man’s corpse My lord, full burial rites—an act you’d made illegal. human beings should never take an oath Is what I say simple and clear enough? there’s something they’ll not do—for later CREON thoughts How did you see her, catch her in the act? contradict what they first meant. I’d have GUARD sworn [390] It happened this way. When we got there, I’d not soon venture here again. Back after hearing those awful threats from then, 440 you, 460 the threats you made brought me a lot of grief. we swept off all the dust covering the corpse, poured out her tributes to the dead. so the damp body was completely When we saw that, we rushed up right away bare. [410] and grabbed her. She was not afraid at all. Then we sat down on rising ground up wind, We charged her with her previous to escape the body’s putrid rotting stench. offence 490 We traded insults just to stay awake, as well as this one. She just kept standing there, in case someone was careless on the job. denying nothing. That made me happy— That’s how we spent the time right up ’til noon, though it was painful, too. For it’s a joy when the sun’s bright circle in the sky escaping troubles which affect oneself, had moved half way and it was burning hot. but painful to bring evil on one’s friends. Then suddenly a swirling windstorm But all that is of less concern to me came, 470 than my own whipping clouds of dust up from the ground, safety. filling the plain—some heaven-sent trouble. [440] In that level place the dirt storm damaged CREON all the forest growth, and the air around [420] You there—you with your was filled with dust for miles. We shut our face mouths bent down towards the ground, what do you say? and just endured this scourge sent from the gods. Do you deny you did this or admit it? A long time passed. The storm came to an end. That’s when we saw the girl. She was shrieking ANTIGONE — I admit I did it. I won’t deny a distressing painful cry, just like a bird that. 500 who’s seen an empty nest, its fledglings CREON [to the Guard] gone. 480 You’re dismissed—go where you want. You’re That’s how she was when she saw the naked free— corpse. no serious charges made against you. She screamed out a lament, and then she swore, [Exit the Guard. Creon turns to interrogate Antigone] calling evil curses down upon the ones who’d done this. Then right away her hands Tell me briefly—not in some lengthy speech— threw on the thirsty dust. She lifted up were you aware there was a proclamation a finely made bronze jug and then three forbidding what you did? times [430] ANTIGONE all. 530 I’d heard of it. If you think what I’m doing now is stupid, How could I not? It was public knowledge. perhaps I’m being charged with CREON foolishness [470] And yet you dared to break those very laws? by someone who’s a fool. ANTIGONE CHORUS LEADER Yes. Zeus did not announce those laws to It’s clear enough me. [450] the spirit in this girl is passionate— And Justice living with the gods below her father was the same. She has no sense sent no such laws for men. I did not of compromise in times of trouble. think 510 CREON [to the Chorus Leader] anything which you proclaimed strong enough But you should know the most obdurate wills to let a mortal override the gods are those most prone to break. The strongest iron and their unwritten and unchanging laws. tempered in the fire to make it really hard— They’re not just for today or yesterday, that’s the kind you see most often but exist forever, and no one knows shatter. 540 where they first appeared. So I did not mean I’m well aware the most tempestuous horses to let a fear of any human will are tamed by one small bit. Pride has no place lead to my punishment among the gods. in anyone who is his neighbour’s slave. I know all too well I’m going to die This girl here was already very — [460] insolent [480] how could I not?—it makes no in contravening laws we had proclaimed. difference 520 Here she again displays her proud contempt— what you decree. And if I have to die having done the act, she now boasts of it. before my time, well, I count that a gain. She laughs at what she’s done. Well, in this case, When someone has to live the way I do, if she gets her way and goes unpunished, surrounded by so many evil things, then she’s the man here, not me. No. She may how can she fail to find a benefit be 550 in death? And so for me meeting this fate my sister’s child, closer to me by blood won’t bring any pain. But if I’d allowed than anyone belonging to my house my own mother’s dead son to just lie there, who worships Zeus Herkeios in my home,* an unburied corpse, then I’d feel distress. but she’ll not escape my harshest punishment— What’s going on here does not hurt me at her sister, too, whom I accuse as well. She had an equal part in all their ANTIGONE plans [490] They share my to do this burial. Go summon her here. views, I saw her just now inside the palace, but they keep their mouths shut just for you. her mind out of control, some kind of fit. CREON [Exit attendants into the palace to fetch Ismene] These views of yours—so different from the rest When people hatch their mischief in the — dark 560 don’t they bring you any sense of their minds often convict them in advance, shame? 580 [510] betraying their treachery. How I despise ANTIGONE a person caught committing evil acts No—there’s nothing shameful in honouring who then desires to glorify the crime. my mother’s children. ANTIGONE CREON Take me and kill me—what more do you want? You had a brother CREON killed fighting for the other side. Me? Nothing. With that I have everything. ANTIGONE ANTIGONE Yes—from the same mother and father, too. Then why delay? There’s nothing in your words CREON that I enjoy—may that always be the Why then give tributes which insult his name? case! [500] ANTIGONE And what I say displeases you as much. But his dead corpse won’t back up what you say. But where could I gain greater glory 570 CREON than setting my own brother in his grave? Yes, he will, if you give equal honours All those here would confirm this pleases them to a wicked man. if their lips weren’t sealed by fear—being king, ANTIGONE which offers all sorts of various benefits, But the one who died means you can talk and act just as you wish. was not some slave—it was his own brother. CREON CREON In all of Thebes, you’re the only one Who was destroying this country—the other who looks at things that way. one 590 CREON went to his death defending it. You there—you snake lurking in my house, ANTIGONE sucking out my life’s blood so secretly. That may be, I’d no idea I was nurturing two pests, but Hades still desires equal rites for both.* who aimed to rise against my throne. Come here. 610 CREON Tell me this—do you admit you played your part A good man does not wish what we give in this burial, or will you swear an oath him [520] you had no knowledge of it? to be the same an evil man receives. ISMENE ANTIGONE I did it— Who knows? In the world below perhaps I admit it, and she’ll back me up. such actions are no crime. So I bear the guilt as well. CREON ANTIGONE An enemy No, no— can never be a friend, not even in death. justice will not allow you to say that. ANTIGONE You didn’t want to. I didn’t work with you. But my nature is to love. I cannot hate. ISMENE CREON But now you’re in trouble, I’m not Then go down to the dead. If you must love, ashamed [540] love them. No woman’s going to govern me of suffering, too, as your companion. — 600 ANTIGONE no, no—not while I’m still alive. Hades and the dead can say who did it [Enter two attendants from the house bringing Ismene — 620 to Creon] I don’t love a friend whose love is only words. CHORUS LEADER ISMENE Ismene’s coming. There—right by the door. You’re my sister. Don’t dishonour me. She’s crying. How she must love her sister! Let me respect the dead and die with you. From her forehead a cloud casts its shadow ANTIGONE down across her darkly flushing face— Don’t try to share my death or make a claim and drops its rain onto her lovely cheeks. [530] to actions which you did not do. I’ll die— ANTIGONE and that will be enough. Be brave. You’re alive. But my spirit died ISMENE some time ago so I might help the But if you’re gone, dead 640 [560] what is there in life for me to love? CREON ANTIGONE I’d say one of these girls has just revealed Ask Creon. He’s the one you care about. how mad she is—the other’s been that way since she was born. ISMENE Why hurt me like this? It doesn’t help ISMENE you. [550] My lord, whatever good sense people have by birth no longer stays with them ANTIGONE once their lives go wrong—it abandons them. If I am mocking you, it pains me, too. 630 CREON In your case, that’s true, once you made your ISMENE choice Even now is there some way I can help? to act in evil ways with wicked people. ANTIGONE ISMENE Save yourself. I won’t envy your escape. How could I live alone, without her here? ISMENE CREON I feel so wretched leaving you to die. Don’t speak of her being here. Her life is over. ANTIGONE ISMENE But you chose life—it was my choice to die. You’re going to kill your own son’s ISMENE bride? 650 But not before I’d said those words just now. CREON ANTIGONE Why not? There are other fields for him to Some people may approve of how you think— plough. others will believe my judgment’s good. ISMENE ISMENE No one will make him a more loving wife But the mistake’s the same for both of us. than she will. CREON CHORUS I have no desire my son Those who live without tasting evil should have an evil wife. have happy lives—for when the gods ANTIGONE shake a house to its foundations, Dearest Haemon, then inevitable disasters strike, how your father wrongs you. falling upon whole families, 670 CREON just as a surging ocean swell I’ve had enough running before cruel Thracian winds of this— across the dark trench of the sea you and your marriage. churns up the deep black ISMENE sand [590] You really want that? and crashes headlong on the cliffs, You’re going to take her from him? which scream in pain against the wind. CREON I see this house’s age-old sorrows, No, not me. the house of Labdakos’ children,* Hades is the one who’ll stop the marriage. sorrows falling on the sorrows of the dead, one generation bringing no CHORUS LEADER relief 680 So she must die—that seems decided on. to generations after it—some god CREON strikes at them—on and on without an end. Yes—for you and me the matter’s For now the light which has been shining closed. 660 over the last roots of Oedipus’ [Creon turns to address his attendants] house [600] is being cut down with a bloody knife No more delay. You slaves, take them inside. belonging to the gods below— From this point on they must act like women for foolish talk and frenzy in the soul. and have no liberty to wander off. Even bold men run when they see Oh Zeus, what human trespasses Hades [580] can check your power? Even Sleep, coming close to them to snatch their lives. who casts his nets on everything, 690 [The attendants take Antigone and Ismene into the cannot master that—nor can the months, palace, leaving Creon and the Chorus on stage] the tireless months the gods control. A sovereign who cannot grow old, CREON you hold Olympus as your own,* We’ll soon find out—more accurately in all its glittering than any prophet here could indicate. magnificence. [61 [Enter Haemon from the palace] 0] From now on into all future time, My son, have you heard the sentence that’s been as in the past, your law holds firm. passed It never enters lives of human beings upon your bride? And have you now come here in its full force without disaster. angry at your father? Or are you loyal to me, Hope ranging far and wide brings on my side no matter what I do? comfort 700 HAEMON to many men—but then hope can deceive, Father, I’m yours. For me your delusions born of volatile desire. judgments 720 It comes upon the man who’s ignorant and the ways you act on them are good— until his foot is seared in burning fire. I shall follow them. I’ll not consider Someone’s wisdom has revealed to any marriage a greater benefit us [620] than your fine leadership. this famous saying—sometimes the gods lure a man’s mind forward to disaster, CREON and he thinks evil’s something good. Indeed, my But then he lives only the briefest time son, free of catastrophe. that’s how your heart should always be resolved, to stand behind your father’s [The palace doors open] judgment [640] CHORUS LEADER on every issue. That’s what men pray for— Here comes obedient children growing up at home Haemon, 710 who will pay back their father’s enemies, your only living son. Is he grieving evil to them for evil done to the fate of Antigone, his bride, him, 730 bitter that his marriage hopes are while honouring his friends as much as he does. gone? [630] A man who fathers useless children— what can one say of him except he’s bred troubles for himself, and much to laugh at for those who fight against him? So, my son, just or unjust. For there’s no greater evil don’t ever throw good sense aside for pleasure, than a lack of leadership. That destroys for some woman’s sake. You understand whole cities, turns households into ruins, how such embraces can turn freezing and in war makes soldiers break and run away. cold [650] When men succeed, what keeps their lives secure when an evil woman shares your life at home. in almost every case is their obedience. What greater wound is there than a false That’s why they must support those in control, friend? 740 and never let some woman beat us So spit this girl out—she’s your enemy. down. 770 Let her marry someone else in Hades. If we must fall from power, let that come Since I caught her clearly disobeying, at some man’s hand—at least, we won’t be called the only culprit in the entire city, inferior to any I won’t perjure myself before the state. woman. [ No—I’ll kill her. And so let her appeal 680] to Zeus, the god of blood relationships. CHORUS LEADER If I foster any lack of full respect Unless we’re being deceived by our old age, in my own family, I surely do the same what you’ve just said seems reasonable to us. with those who are not linked to me by blood. 750 [660] HAEMON The man who acts well with his household Father, the gods instill good sense in men— will be found a just man in the city.* the greatest of all the things which we possess. I’d trust such a man to govern wisely I could not find your words somehow not right— or to be content with someone ruling him. I hope that’s something I never learn to do. And in the thick of battle at his But other words might be good, as post [670] well. 780 he’ll stand firm beside his fellow soldier, Because of who you are, you can't perceive a loyal, brave man. But anyone who’s proud all the things men say or do—or their complaints. and violates our laws or thinks he’ll tell Your gaze makes citizens afraid—they our leaders what to do, a man like that can’t [690] wins no praise from me. No. We must say anything you would not like to hear. obey 760 But in the darkness I can hear them talk— whatever man the city puts in charge, the city is upset about the girl. no matter what the issue—great or small, They say of all women here she’s least deserves the worst of deaths for her most glorious act. When in the slaughter her own brother died, my views, I’d say it would be for the she did not just leave him there best [720] unburied, 790 if men by nature understood all things— to be ripped apart by carrion dogs or birds. if not, and that is usually the case, Surely she deserves some golden honour? when men speak well, it good to learn from them. That’s the dark secret rumour people CHORUS LEADER speak. [700] My lord, if what he’s said is For me, father, nothing is more valuable relevant, 820 than your well being. For any children, it seems appropriate to learn from him, what could be a greater honour to them and you too, Haemon, listen to the king. than their father’s thriving reputation? The things which you both said were excellent. A father feels the same about his sons. So don’t let your mind dwell on just one thought, CREON that what you say is right and nothing And men my age—are we then going to school else. 800 to learn what’s wise from men as young as him? A man who thinks that only he is wise, HAEMON that he can speak and think like no one else, There’s nothing wrong in that. And if I’m young, when such men are exposed, then all can see don’t think about my age—look at what I do. their emptiness inside. For any CREON man, [710] And what you do—does that include even if he’s wise, there’s nothing shameful this, [730] in learning many things, staying flexible. honouring those who act against our laws? You notice how in winter floods the trees which bend before the storm preserve their twigs. HAEMON The ones who stand against it are destroyed, I would not encourage root and branch. In the same way, those anyone 830 sailors 810 to show respect to evil men. who keep their sails stretched tight, never easing CREON off, And her— make their ship capsize—and from that point on is she not suffering from the same disease? sail with their rowing benches all submerged. HAEMON So end your anger. Permit yourself to change. The people here in Thebes all say the same— For if I, as a younger man, may state they deny she is. CREON HAEMON So the city now No, not when I see will instruct me how I am to govern? you making a mistake and being unjust. HAEMON CREON Now you’re talking like someone far too young. Is it a mistake to honour my own rule? Don’t you see that? HAEMON CREON You’re not honouring that by trampling Am I to rule this land on 850 at someone else’s whim or by myself? the gods’ prerogatives. HAEMON CREON A city which belongs to just one man You foul creature— is no true city. you’re worse than any woman. CREON HAEMON According to our You’ll not catch me laws, 840 giving way to some disgrace. does not the ruler own the city? CREON HAEMON But your words By yourself you’d make an excellent king all speak on her behalf. but in a desert. HAEMON CREON And yours and mine— It seems as if this and for the gods below. boy [740] CREON is fighting on the woman’s side. You woman’s slave— HAEMON don’t try to win me over. That’s true— HAEMON if you’re the woman. I’m concerned for you. What do you CREON want— You’re the worst there is—you set your judgment to speak and never hear someone reply?* up against your father. CREON HAEMON You’ll never marry her while she’s No. Don’t ever hope for that. She’ll not die alive. [750] with me just standing there. And as for you— HAEMON your eyes will never see my face again. Then she’ll die—and in her death kill someone So let your rage charge on among your friends else. who want to stand by you in this. CREON [Exit Haemon, running back into the palace] Are you so insolent you threaten CHORUS LEADER me? 860 My lord, Haemon left in such a hurry. HAEMON He’s angry—in a young man at his age Where’s the threat in challenging a bad decree? the mind turns bitter when he’s feeling hurt. CREON CREON You’ll regret parading what you think like this— Let him dream up or carry out great deeds you—a person with an empty brain! beyond the power of man, he’ll not save these girls— 880 HAEMON their fate is sealed. If you were not my father, I might say you were not thinking straight. CHORUS LEADER Are you going to kill them CREON both? [770] Would you, indeed? CREON Well, then, by Olympus, I’ll have you know No—not the one whose hands are clean. You’re you’ll be sorry for demeaning me right. with all these insults. CHORUS LEADER [Creon turns to his attendants] How do you plan to kill Antigone? Go bring her out CREON — [760] I’ll take her on a path no people use, that hateful creature, so she can die right here, and hide her in a cavern in the rocks, with him present, before her bridegroom’s while still alive. I’ll set out provisions, eyes. 870 as much as piety requires, to make sure the city is not totally corrupted.* Then she can speak her prayers to Hades, the only god she worships, for Antigone going to her bridal room success 890 where all are laid to rest in death. avoiding death—or else, at least, she’ll learn, ANTIGONE although too late, how it’s a waste of time Look at me, my native citizens, to work to honour those whom Hades as I go on my final journey, holds. [780] as I gaze upon the sunlight one last time, CHORUS which I’ll never see again—for Hades, O Eros, the conqueror in every fight,* who brings all people to their final sleep, Eros, who squanders all men’s wealth, leads me on, while I’m still who sleeps at night on girls’ soft cheeks, living, [810] and roams across the ocean seas down to the shores of and through the shepherd’s hut— Acheron.* 920 no immortal god escapes from you, I’ve not yet had my bridal chant, nor any man, who lives but for a nor has any wedding song been sung— day. 900 for my marriage is to Acheron. And the one whom you possess goes CHORUS mad. [790] Surely you carry fame with you and praise, Even in good men you twist their minds, as you move to the deep home of the dead. perverting them to their own ruin. You were not stricken by lethal disease You provoke these men to family strife. or paid your wages with a The bride’s desire seen glittering in her eyes— sword. [820] that conquers everything, its power No. You were in charge of your own fate. enthroned beside eternal laws, for there So of all living human beings, you alone the goddess Aphrodite works her make your way down to Hades still will, [800] alive. 930 whose ways are irresistible.* ANTIGONE [Antigone enters from the palace with attendants who I’ve heard about a guest of ours, are taking her away to her execution] daughter of Tantalus, from Phrygia— CHORAL LEADER she went to an excruciating death When I look at her I forget my in Sipylus, right on the mountain peak. place. 910 The stone there, just like clinging ivy, I lose restraint and can’t hold back my tears— wore her down, and now, so people say, the snow and rain never leave her CHORUS there, [830] You pushed your daring to the limit, my child, as she laments. Below her weeping eyes and tripped against Justice’s high altar— her neck is wet with tears. God brings me perhaps your agonies are paying back to a final rest which most resembles some compensation for your father.* hers. 940 ANTIGONE CHORUS Now there you touch on my most painful thought But Niobe was a goddess, born divine— — and we are human beings, a race which dies. my father’s destiny—always on my mind, But still, it’s a fine thing for a woman, along with that whole fate which sticks to once she’s dead, to have it said she shared, us, [860] in life and death, the fate of demi-gods.* the splendid house of Labdakos—the curse ANTIGONE arising from a mother’s marriage bed, Oh, you are mocking me! Why me— when she had sex with her own son, my by our fathers’ gods—why do you all, father. 970 my own city and the richest men of Thebes, From what kind of parents was I born, insult me now right to my face, their wretched daughter? I go to them, without waiting for my unmarried and accursed, an outcast. death? 950 Alas, too, for my brother Polyneices, Well at least I have Dirce’s springs, who made a fatal marriage and then died the holy grounds of Thebes, — [870] a city full of splendid chariots, and with that death killed me while still alive.* to witness how no friends lament for me CHORUS as I move on—you see the laws To be piously devout shows reverence, which lead me to my rock-bound prison, but powerful men, who in their persons a tomb made just for me. Alas! incorporate authority, cannot bear In my wretchedness I have no anyone to break their rules. Hence, you home, [850] die 980 not with human beings or corpses, because of your own selfish will. not with the living or the ANTIGONE dead. 960 Without lament, without a friend, and with no marriage song, I’m being led in this miserable state, along my final road. you. [900] So wretched that I no longer have the I arranged your corpse and at the grave right [880] mound 1010 to look upon the sun, that sacred eye. poured out libations. But now, Polyneices, But my fate prompts no tears, and no friend this is my reward for covering your corpse.* mourns. However, for wise people I was right CREON to honour you. I’d never have done it Don’t you know that no one faced with death for children of my own, not as their mother, would ever stop the singing and the groans, nor for a dead husband lying in decay— if that would help? Take her and shut her no, not in defiance of the citizens. up, 990 What law do I appeal to, claiming this? as I have ordered, in her tomb’s embrace. If my husband died, there’d be another one, And get it done as quickly as you can. and if I were to lose a child of Then leave her there alone, all by herself— mine 1020 she can sort out whether she wants suicide I’d have another with some other or remains alive, buried in a place like that. man. [910] As far as she’s concerned, we bear no guilt. But since my father and my mother, too, But she’s lost her place living here with are hidden away in Hades’ house, us.* [890] I’ll never have another living brother. That was the law I used to honour you. ANTIGONE But Creon thought that I was in the wrong Oh my tomb and bridal chamber— and acting recklessly for you, my brother. my eternal hollow dwelling place, Now he seizes me by force and leads me here— where I go to join my people. Most of no wedding and no bridal song, no share them 1000 in married life or raising have perished—Persephone has welcomed them children. 1030 among the dead.* I’m the last one, dying here Instead I go in sorrow to my grave, the most evil death by far, as I move down without my friends, to die while still before the time allotted for my life is done. alive. [920] But I go nourishing the vital hope What holy justice have I violated? my father will be pleased to see me come, In my wretchedness, why should I still look and you, too, my mother, will welcome me, up to the gods? Which one can I invoke as well as you, my own dear brother. to bring me help, when for my reverence When you died, with my own hands I washed they charge me with impiety? Well, then, the kind of men who do this to me, if this is something fine among the gods, for paying reverence to true piety. I’ll come to recognize that I’ve done wrong. [Antigone is led away under escort] But if these people here are being unjust 1040 CHORUS may they endure no greater punishment In her brass-bound room fair Danae as well than the injustices they’re doing to me. endured her separation from the heaven’s light, 1060 CHORUS LEADER a prisoner hidden in a chamber like a tomb, The same storm blasts continue to attack although she, too, came from a noble line.* the mind in this young And she, my child, had in her care girl. [930] the liquid streaming golden seed of CREON Zeus. [950] Then those escorting her But the power of fate is full of mystery. will be sorry they’re so slow. There’s no evading it, no, not with wealth, ANTIGONE or war, or walls, or black sea-beaten ships. Alas, then, And the hot-tempered child of Dryas, those words mean death is very near at hand. king of the Edonians, was put in prison, CREON closed up in the rocks by I won’t encourage you or cheer you up, Dionysus, 1070 by saying the sentence won’t be carried out. for his angry mocking of the god.* There the dreadful flower of his ANTIGONE rage [960] O city of my fathers slowly withered, and he came to know in this land of Thebes the god who in his frenzy he had mocked — 1050 with his own tongue. For he had tried and my ancestral gods, to hold in check women in that frenzy I am being led away. inspired by the god, the Bacchanalian fire. No more delaying for me. More than that—he’d made the Muses angry, Look on me, you lords of challenging the gods who love the flute.* Thebes, [940] the last survivor of your royal house, Beside the black rocks where the twin seas see what I have to undergo, meet, 1080 by Thracian Salmydessos at the Bosphorus,* close to the place where Ares CREON dwells, [970] I’ve not rejected your advice before. the war god witnessed the unholy wounds TEIRESIAS which blinded the two sons of Phineus, That’s the reason why you’ve steered the city inflicted by his savage wife—the sightless holes on its proper course. cried out for someone to avenge those blows made with her sharpened comb in blood-stained CREON hands.* From my experience In their misery they wept, lamenting I can confirm the help you give. their wretched suffering, sons of a mother whose marriage had gone wrong. And TEIRESIAS yet, 1090 [980] Then know this— she was an offspring of an ancient family, your luck is once more on fate’s razor edge. the race of Erechtheus, raised far away, CREON in caves surrounded by her father’s winds, What? What you’ve just said makes me nervous. Boreas’ child, a girl who raced with horses TEIRESIAS across steep hills—child of the gods. You’ll know—once you hear the tokens of my But she, too, my child, suffered much art. from the immortal Fates.* As I was sitting in my ancient [Enter Teiresias, led by a young boy] place 1110 TEIRESIAS receiving omens from the flights of birds Lords of Thebes, we two have walked a common who all come there where I can hear path, them, [1000] one person’s vision serving both of us. I note among those birds an unknown cry— The blind require a guide to find their evil, unintelligible, angry screaming. way. 1100 [990] I knew that they were tearing at each other with murderous claws. The noisy wings CREON revealed that all too well. I was afraid. What news do you have, old Teiresias? So right away up on the blazing altar TEIRESIAS I set up burnt offerings. But Hephaestus I’ll tell you—and you obey the prophet. failed to shine out from the sacrifice — 1120 dark slime poured out onto the embers, oozing from the thighs, which smoked and spat, I’ve been concerned for you. It’s good advice. bile was sprayed high up into the Learning can be pleasant when a man speaks air, [1010] well, 1150 and the melting thighs lost all the fat especially when he seeks your benefit. which they’d been wrapped in. The rites had CREON failed— Old man, you’re all like archers shooting at me— there was no prophecy revealed in them. For you all I’ve now become your target— I learned that from this boy, who is my guide, even prophets have been aiming at me. as I guide other men.* Our state is sick— I’ve long been bought and sold as merchandise your policies have done this. In the city among that tribe. Well, go make your profits. our altars and our hearths have been If it’s what you want, then trade with Sardis defiled, 1130 for their golden-silver alloy—or for gold all of them, with rotting flesh brought there from India, but you’ll never hide that corpse by birds and dogs from Oedipus’ son, in any grave. Even if Zeus’ who lies there miserably dead. The gods eagles 1160 [1040] no longer will accept our sacrifice, should choose to seize his festering body our prayers, our thigh bones burned in and take it up, right to the throne of Zeus, fire. [1020] not even then would I, in trembling fear No bird will shriek out a clear sign to us, of some defilement, permit that corpse for they have gorged themselves on fat and blood a burial. For I know well that no man from a man who’s dead. Consider this, my son. has the power to pollute the gods. All men make mistakes—that’s not uncommon. But, old Teiresias, among human beings But when they do, they’re no longer the wisest suffer a disgraceful fall foolish 1140 when, to promote themselves, they use fine or subject to bad luck if they try to fix words the evil into which they’ve fallen, to spread around abusive once they give up their intransigence. insults. 1170 Men who put their stubbornness on show invite accusations of stupidity. TEIRESIAS Make concessions to the dead—don’t ever stab Alas, does any man know or think about . . . a man who’s just been killed. What’s the glory CREON [interrupting] in killing a dead person one more Think what? What sort of pithy common thought time? [1030] are you about to utter? TEIRESIAS [ignoring the interruption] CREON . . . how good You’re a wise prophet, advice but you love doing wrong. is valuable—worth more than all TEIRESIAS possessions. [1050] You’ll force me CREON to speak of secrets locked inside my I think that’s true, as much as foolishness heart. [1060] is what harms us most. CREON TEIRESIAS Do it—just don’t speak to benefit yourself. Yet that’s the sickness TEIRESIAS now infecting you. I don’t think that I’ll be doing that— CREON not as far as you’re concerned. I have no desire CREON to denigrate a prophet when I speak. You can be TEIRESIAS sure 1190 But that’s what you are doing, when you claim you won’t change my mind to make yourself my oracles are false. more rich. CREON TEIRESIAS The tribe of prophets Then understand this well—you will not see — 1180 the sun race through its cycle many times all of them—are fond of money before you lose a child of your own loins, TEIRESIAS a corpse in payment for these corpses. And kings? You’ve thrown down to those below someone Their tribe loves to benefit dishonestly. from up above—in your arrogance you’ve moved a living soul into a grave, CREON leaving here a body owned by gods below You know you’re speaking of the man who rules — [1070] you. unburied, dispossessed, TEIRESIAS unsanctified. 1200 I know—thanks to me you saved the city That’s no concern of yours or gods above. and now are in control.* In this you violate the ones below. And so destroying avengers wait for you, Furies of Hades and the gods, who’ll see CHORUS LEADER you caught up in this very wickedness. Son of Menoikeos, Now see if I speak as someone who’s been you need to listen to some good advice. bribed. CREON It won’t be long before in your own house Tell me what to do. Speak up. I’ll do it. the men and women all cry out in sorrow, and cities rise in hate against you—all CHORUS LEADER those [1080] Go and release the girl from her rock whose mangled soldiers have had burial tomb. 1230 [1100] rites 1210 Then prepare a grave for that unburied corpse. from dogs, wild animals, or flying birds CREON who carry the unholy stench back home, This is your advice? You think I should concede? to every city hearth.* Like an archer, CHORUS LEADER I shoot these arrows now into your heart Yes, my lord, as fast as possible. because you have provoked me. I’m angry— Swift footed injuries sent from the gods so my aim is good. You’ll not escape their pain. hack down those who act imprudently. Boy, lead us home so he can vent his rage on younger men and keep a quieter tongue CREON and a more temperate mind than he has Alas—it’s difficult. But I’ll give up. now. [1090] I’ll not do what I’d set my heart upon. It’s not right to fight against necessity. [Exit Teiresias, led by the young boy] CHORUS LEADER CHORUS LEADER Go now and get this done. Don’t give the work My lord, my lord, such dreadful prophecies to other men to do. — 1220 and now he’s gone. Since my hair changed colour CREON from black to white, I know here in the city I’ll go just as I he’s never uttered a false prophecy. am. 1240 Come, you servants, each and every one of you. CREON Come on. Bring axes with you. Go there quickly I know that, too—and it disturbs my mind. — It’s dreadful to give way, but to resist up to the higher ground. I’ve changed my and let destruction hammer down my spirit— mind. [1110] that’s a fearful option, too. Since I’m the one who tied her up, I’ll go and set her free myself. Now I’m afraid. You honour Thebes, our Until one dies the best thing well may be city, 1270 to follow our established laws. above all others, you and your mother [Creon and his attendants hurry off stage] blasted by that lightning strike.* And now when all our people CHORUS here [1140] Oh you with many names, are captive to a foul disease, you glory of that Theban bride, on your healing feet you come and child of thundering across the moaning strait Zeus, 1250 or over the Parnassian hill. you who cherish famous Italy, and rule the welcoming valley lands You who lead the dance, of Eleusianian Deo— among the fire-breathing stars, O Bacchus—you who dwell who guard the voices in the in the bacchants’ mother city Thebes, night, 1280 beside Ismenus’ flowing streams, child born of Zeus, oh my on land sown with the teeth lord, [1150] of that fierce dragon.* appear with your attendant Thyiads, who dance in frenzy all night long, Above the double mountain peaks, for you their patron, Iacchus.* the torches flashing through the murky smoke 1260 [Enter a Messenger] have seen you where Corcyian nymphs move on as they worship you MESSENGER by the Kastalian All you here who live beside the home stream. [1 of Amphion and Cadmus—in human life 130] there’s no set place which I would praise or And from the ivy-covered slopes blame.* of Nysa’s hills, from the green shore The lucky and unlucky rise or fall so rich in vines, you come to us, by chance day after day—and how these things visiting our Theban ways, are fixed for men no one can while deathless voices all cry out prophesy. 1290 [1160] in honour of your name, "Evoe."* For Creon, in my view, was once a man we all looked up to. For he saved the state, this land of Cadmus, from its enemies. He took control and reigned as its sole king— MESSENGER and prospered with the birth of noble children. By his own hand— Now all is gone. For when a man has lost angry at his father for the what gives him pleasure, I don’t include him murder. 1310 among the living—he’s a breathing corpse. CHORUS LEADER Pile up a massive fortune in your home, Teiresias, how your words have proven true! if that’s what you want—live like a king. 1300 MESSENGER If there’s no pleasure in it, I’d not give That’s how things stand. Consider what comes to any man a vapour’s shadow for next. it, [1170] CHORUS LEADER not compared to human joy. I see Creon’s wife, poor Eurydice CHORUS LEADER — [1180] Have you come with news of some fresh trouble she’s coming from the house—either by chance, in our house of kings? or else she’s heard there’s news about her son. MESSENGER [Enter Eurydice from the palace with some attendants] They’re dead— EURYDICE and those alive bear the responsibility Citizens of Thebes, I heard you talking, for those who’ve died. as I was walking out, going off to pray, CHORUS LEADER to ask for help from goddess Pallas. Who did the killing? While I was unfastening the gate, Who’s lying dead? Tell us. I heard someone speaking of bad news 1320 MESSENGER about my family. I was terrified. Haemon has been killed. I collapsed, fainting back into the arms No stranger shed his blood. of my attendants. So tell the news again CHORUS LEADER — [1190] At his father’s hand? I’ll listen. I’m no stranger to misfortune. Or did he kill himself? MESSENGER Dear lady, I’ll speak of what I saw, omitting not one detail of the truth. Why should I ease your mind with a report which turns out later to be incorrect? to see if that was Haemon’s voice I heard, The truth is always best. I went to the plain, or if the gods have been deceiving me." accompanying your husband as his Following what our desperate master asked, guide. 1330 we looked. In the furthest corner of the Polyneices’ corpse, still unlamented, tomb [1220] was lying there, the greatest distance off, we saw Antigone hanging by the neck, torn apart by dogs. We prayed to Pluto held up in a noose—fine woven and to Hecate, goddess of the road, linen. 1360 for their good will and to restrain their Haemon had his arms around her waist— rage. [1200] he was embracing her and crying out We gave the corpse a ritual wash, and burned in sorrow for the loss of his own bride, what was left of it on fresh-cut branches. now among the dead, his father’s work, We piled up a high tomb of his native earth. and for his horrifying marriage bed. Then we moved to the young girl’s rocky cave, Creon saw him, let out a fearful groan, the hollow cavern of that bride of then went inside and called out anxiously, death. 1340 "You unhappy boy, what have you done? From far away one man heard a voice What are you thinking? Have you lost your coming from the chamber where we’d put her mind? without a funeral—a piercing cry. Come out, my child—I’m begging you—please He went to tell our master Creon, come." 1370 [1230] who, as he approached the place, heard the But the boy just stared at him with savage eyes, sound, spat in his face and, without saying a word, an unintelligible scream of sorrow. drew his two-edged sword. Creon moved away, He groaned and then spoke out these bitter so the boy’s blow failed to strike his father. words, [1210] Angry at himself, the ill-fated lad "Has misery made me a prophet now? right then and there leaned into his own sword, And am I travelling along a road driving half the blade between his ribs. that takes me to the worst of all While still conscious he embraced the girl disasters? 1350 in his weak arms, and, as he breathed his last, I’ve just heard the voice of my own son. he coughed up streams of blood on her fair You servants, go ahead—get up there fast. cheek. 1380 Remove the stones piled in the entrance way, Now he lies there, corpse on corpse, his then stand beside the tomb and look in there marriage [1240] has been fulfilled in chambers of the dead. [The Messenger goes up the stairs into the palace. The unfortunate boy has shown all men Enter Creon from the side, with attendants. how, of all the evils which afflict mankind, Creon is holding the body of Haemon] the most disastrous one is thoughtlessness. CHORUS LEADER [Eurydice turns and slowly returns into the palace] Here comes the king in person—carrying CHORUS LEADER in his arms, if it’s right to speak of this, What do you make of that? The queen’s gone a clear reminder that this evil comes back. not from some stranger, but his own She left without a word, good or bad. mistakes. [1260] MESSENGER CREON I’m surprised myself. It’s about her son— Aaiii—mistakes made by a foolish mind, she heard that terrible report. I hope cruel mistakes that bring on death. she’s gone because she doesn’t think it You see us here, all in one family— right 1390 the killer and the killed. to mourn for him in public. In the home, Oh the profanity of what I surrounded by her servants, she’ll arrange planned. 1410 a period of mourning for the house. Alas, my son, you died so young— She’s discreet and has experience— a death before your time. she won’t make Aaiii . . . aaiii . . . you’re dead . . . gone— mistakes. [1 not your own foolishness but mine. 250] CHORUS LEADER CHORUS LEADER Alas, it seems you’ve learned to see what’s right I’m not sure of that. — to me her staying silent was extreme— but far too it seems to point to something ominous, late. just like a vain excess of grief. &nb sp; [1270] MESSENGER CREON I’ll go in. Aaiiii . . . I’ve learned it We’ll find out if she’s hiding something secret, in my pain. deep within her passionate heart. You’re right Some god clutching a great weight struck my — 1400 head, excessive silence can be dangerous. then hurled me onto paths in wilderness, throwing down and casting underfoot A slaughter heaped on slaughter what brought me — [1290] joy. 1420 my wife, alas . . . she’s dead? So sad . . . so sad . . . MESSENGER [opening the palace doors, revealing the wretched agony of human life. the body of Eurydice] [The Messenger reappears from the palace] Look here. No longer is she concealed inside. CREON MESSENGER Alas, how miserable I feel—to look upon My lord, you come like one who stores up evil, this second horror. What remains for me, what you hold in your arms and what you’ll see what’s fate still got in store? I’ve just before too long inside the held 1440 house. [1280] my own son in my arms, and now I see CREON right here in front of me another corpse. What’s Alas for this suffering that? mother. [1300] Is there something still more evil than all this? Alas, my son. MESSENGER MESSENGER Your wife is dead—blood mother of that corpse Stabbed with a sharp sword at the altar, — she let her darkening eyesight fail, slaughtered with a sword—her wounds are very once she had cried out in sorrow new, for the glorious fate of Megareos, poor lady. who died some time ago, and then again CREON for Haemon, and then, with her last Aaiiii . . . . a gathering place for breath, 1450 death . . . she called out evil things against you, no sacrifice can bring this to an the killer of your sons.* end. 1430 CREON Why are you destroying me? You there— Aaaii . . . My fear now makes me tremble. you bringer of this dreadful news, this agony, Why won’t someone now strike out at me, what are you saying now? Aaiii . . . pierce my heart with a double bladed sword? You kill a man then kill him once again. How miserable I am . . . What are you saying, boy? What news? aaiii . . . [1310] day. [1330] how full of misery and pain . . . Oh, let it come, so that I never see MESSENGER another dawn. By this woman who lies dead you stand charged CHORUS LEADER with the deaths of both your sons. That’s something for the times ahead. CREON Now we need to deal with what confronts us What about her? here. How did she die so violently? What’s yet to come is the concern of those 1480 MESSENGER whose task it is to deal with it. She killed herself, 1460 CREON with her own hands she stabbed her belly, In that prayer once she heard her son’s unhappy fate. I included everything I most desire. CREON CHORUS Alas for me . . . the guilt for all of this is mine— Pray for nothing. it can never be removed from me or passed There’s no release for mortal human beings, to any other mortal man. I, and I alone . . . not from events which destiny has set. I murdered you . . . I speak the truth. CREON Servants—hurry and lead me Then take this foolish man away from here. off, [1320] I killed you, my son, without intending get me away from here, for now to, [1340] what I am in life is nothing. and you, as well, my wife. How useless I am CHORUS LEADER now. What you advise is good—if good can I don’t know where to look or find support. come 1470 Everything I touch goes wrong, and on my head with all these evils. When we face such things fate climbs up with its overwhelming the less we say the better. load. 1490 CREON [The Attendants help Creon move up the stairs into the Let that day come, oh let it come, palace, taking Haemon’s body with them] the fairest of all destinies for me, CHORUS the one which brings on my last The most important part of true success is wisdom—not to act impiously bring on great blows of punishment— towards the gods, for boasts of arrogant so in old age men can discover wisdom. men [1350]