Euripides Messenger: an old man. Orestes Phrygian: one of Helen's Trojan slaves, a eunuch. 408 BC Apollo: divine son of Zeus and Leto, god of prophecy. The translation, which has been prepared by Ian Johnston of Malaspina Universi- [Scene: The action of the play takes place in Argos just outside the royal palace a few days after ty-College, Nanaimo British Columbia, Canada (now Vancouver Island Universi- Orestes has avenged the murder of his father by killing his mother, Clytaemnestra, and her lover, ty), may be downloaded for personal use, and teachers may distribute the text to Aegisthus. At the opening, Orestes is lying ill on a bed near the doors. Electra is sitting close their classes without permission and without charge, provided the source is to him] acknowledged. There are, however, copyright restrictions on commercial publica- ELECTRA tion of this text (for details consult the following link: Copyright). There's nothing terrible one can describe, Note that in the text below the numbers in square brackets refer to the lines in no suffering or event brought on by god, the Greek text; the numbers without brackets refer to the lines in the translated whose weight humans may not have to bear. text. In numbering the lines of the English text, the translator has normally The blessed Tantalus—and I don't mock him counted a short indented line with the short line above it, so that two short lines for his misfortunes—who was, so they say, count as one line. The asterisks indicate links to explanatory endnotes provided born from Zeus, flutters in the air, terrified by the translator. of a rock hanging right above his head. People claim he's paying the penalty, The translator would like to acknowledge the valuable help of M. L. West's com- because, although he was a mortal man mentary on the play (Aris & Phillips, 1987). who was considered equal to the gods 10 For comments, questions, suggestions for improvements, and so on please con- in the feasts they shared together, he had tact Ian Johnston. If you would like to prepare this text as a small booklet rather a shameful illness—he could not control [10] than printing it from the screen, select Publisher files. The text is also available his tongue.* Well, Tantalus fathered Pelops, free of charge as a Word or WordPerfect file. and then from that man Atreus was born, the one for whom the goddess combing yarn For some background information on the House of Atreus, please use the follow- spun out strife, making him the enemy ing link: House of Atreus. of his own brother, Thyestes.* But why For other recent translations of Greek works please check the johnstonia home should I describe these horrors once again? page. Then Atreus killed Thyestes' children and fed them to him. Then, there's Atreus— 20 I won't mention what happened in between. With Aerope, who came from Crete, as mother, Euripides Atreus fathered glorious Agamemnon, Orestes if, indeed, he was a glorious man, Dramatis Personae and Menelaus, too. Menelaus then wed Helen, a woman gods despise, [20] Electra: daughter of Agamemnon and Clytaemnestra, sister of Orestes. while lord Agamemnon, in a wedding Helen: wife of Menelaus, sister of Clytaemnestra. notorious in Greece, took Clytaemnestra Hermione: daughter of Menelaus and Helen. as his wife. To him from that one woman Chorus: young women of Argos. were born three daughters—Chrysothemis, 30 Orestes: son of Agamemnon and Clytaemnestra, brother of Electra. Iphigeneia, and me, Electra, Menelaus: king of Sparta, brother of Agamemnon, uncle of Orestes and Electra. and a son, as well, Orestes, all of us Tyndareus: father of Helen and Clytaemnestra, an old man. from an abominable mother who snared Pylades: prince of Phocis, a friend of Orestes. her husband in a robe he could not escape 1 and slaughtered him. It's not appropriate if she went strolling there during the day, for a young girl to talk of why she did it, and injured her by starting to throw stones. and so I leave the matter indistinct She's inside now, weeping for her sister 80 for people to consider. Why should one and the troubles which have struck her family. accuse Phoebus of injustice, even though Though she suffers, she has some consolation— he did persuade Orestes to strike down 40 Hermione, the daughter she left at home the mother who had given birth to him, when she sailed off to Troy, who Menelaus an act which did not earn him a good name [30] brought from Sparta and gave to my mother in all men's eyes?* Still, he obeyed the god to bring up, brings her great joy and helps her and killed her. I helped with the murder, too, forget her troubles. I keep on watching doing as much as any woman could, all the roads for the moment I can see and Pylades assisted us as well. Menelaus coming. Unless he saves us, After that poor Orestes grew so ill. we don't have much strength to ride this out. 90 Infected with a savage wasting sickness, A house plagued with bad luck has no defence. [70] he's collapsed in bed and lies there, driven [Helen enters from the place] into fits of madness by his mother's blood. 50 I am ashamed to name those goddesses, HELEN the Eumenides, who keep driving him Child of Clytaemnestra and Agamemnon, through terrible ordeals.* It's the sixth day poor Electra, you've remained unmarried since our mother perished in that slaughter such a long time now. How are things with you and her body was purified in fire— [40] and your unlucky brother Orestes, in that time he's not swallowed any food who killed his mother? That was a mistake. or washed his skin. He stays wrapped in a cloak. But I ascribe it to Apollo, and so And when his body does find some relief I don't risk pollution talking to you. and his mind clears from the disease, he weeps. And yet I do lament my sister's death, At other times he leaps up out of bed 60 Clytaemnestra, whom I never saw 100 and bolts like a colt released from harness. after I sailed off to Troy, driven there Argos has proclaimed no one should shelter us, by that fated madness from the gods. receive us by their hearths, or speak to us, Now I've lost her, I weep for our misfortune. [80] since we killed our mother. This very day ELECTRA will be decisive—the Argive city Helen, why should I now describe for you will cast its vote whether the two of us what your eyes can see—Agamemnon's home must be stoned to death or have our throats cut [50] facing disaster? I sit here sleepless with a sharpened sword. We do have one hope beside this wretched corpse—his faint breathing we won't die—the fact that Menelaus makes the man a corpse. Not that I blame him has reached this land from Troy—his flotilla 70 for his suffering. You're the one who's lucky. now fills up the harbour at Nauplia, Your husband's fortunate as well. You've come 110 where he rides at anchor by the headlands, when what's going on with us is miserable. after wandering for so long at random. But as for Helen, who caused such grieving, HELEN he sent her on ahead to our own house, [60] How long has he lying like this in bed? waiting until night, in case anyone ELECTRA whose children died at Troy might see her, 2 Ever since he shed his mother's blood. HELEN I fear the fathers of those men 130 HELEN who died at Troy. Poor wretch! [90] And his mother, too, given how she died. ELECTRA That's a real fear. In Argos ELECTRA it's on people's lips. That's how it is. He's broken by his troubles. HELEN HELEN So relieve my fears. Girl, would you do something for me please, Do me that favour. in the name of the gods? ELECTRA ELECTRA I couldn't do it— I'm busy here, look at my mother's grave. sitting with my brother. HELEN HELEN But for servants Would you be willing to take these offerings would be disgraceful. to come with me to my sister's tomb? ELECTRA ELECTRA Why not send Hermione, your daughter? To my own mother? Is that what you want? 120 But why? HELEN It's not good for an unmarried girl HELEN to walk around in public. So I can take an offering from me, hair and libations.* ELECTRA She'd be repaying ELECTRA the dead woman for looking after her. Is it somehow wrong for you to visit a family burial mound? HELEN What you say is right, girl. You've convinced me. 140 [110] HELEN I'll send my daughter. Your advice is good. I'm ashamed to show myself in public among the Argives. [Helen calls in through the palace doors] ELECTRA Hermione! Come on out, my child, After all this time out here in front. you're thinking wisely. Back when you left home [Hermione enters from the palace] that was disgraceful. Take the libation HELEN in your hands and this hair of mine, and go What you say is right. [100] to Clytaemnestra's burial site. Pour out But you're not talking to me as a friend. the stirred-up honey, milk, and frothing wine. ELECTRA Then stand on top the mound and say these words, What makes you feel shame among the people "Helen, your sister, offers these libations, in Mycenae?* fearing to come to your tomb in person,

3 afraid of the Argive mob." And ask her 150 like the breathing of a tiny reed to look with kindness on you and me [120] on a shepherd's pipe. and my husband, and on this wretched pair CHORUS [whispering] some god has ruined. Promise funeral gifts, There, you see. 180 all the things I should give to my sister. I'm keeping my voice pitched soft and low. You must leave now, my child, and go quickly. When you've offered libations at the tomb, ELECTRA return back here as quickly as you can. Yes, that's fine. Come over. Come on. Move gently. Keep moving quietly. [Hermione takes the offerings and leaves, going away from the palace. Helen exits Tell me the reason why you had to come. [150] into the palace] He hasn't fallen asleep like this for ages. ELECTRA CHORUS O nature, how vicious you are in men, How is he? Give us a report, dear friend. a saviour, too, for those who do possess What shall I say has happened to him? what works to their advantage. Did you see 160 What's ailing him? how she's trimmed her hair only at the ends to preserve her beauty? She's the woman ELECTRA she has always been. May the gods hate you He's still breathing— for ruining me and him and all of Greece! [130] feeble groans. I'm so unhappy! CHORUS [The Chorus enters] What are you saying? The poor man! Here they are again, ELECTRA my friends who sing with me in my laments. You'll kill him if you distract his eyes 190 They'll soon end my brother's peaceful sleep while he's enjoying sweet gifts of sleep. and melt my eyes with tears once I see him CHORUS in his mad fit. You women, dearest friends, Pitiful man, suffering for those hateful acts [160] move with a quiet step and make no noise, 170 inspired by a god. no unexpected sound. Your kindness here is dear to me, but if you wake him up, ELECTRA what happens will be difficult for me. Yes, it's pitiful. An unjust god uttered unjust things CHORUS in what he decreed, when Loxias Keep quiet! Silence! let your steps be light. [140] from Themis' tripod passed his sentence, Make no sound at all. the unnatural murder of my mother.* ELECTRA CHORUS Keep away from him— Do you see? His body's moving in his robes. further from his bed, I'm begging you! ELECTRA CHORUS You wretch, you've forced him to wake up There, I've done as you request. with your chatter. ELECTRA CHORUS Ah yes, but speak to me, dear friend,

4 No, I think he's sleeping. 200 I drag out my life on and on forever. ELECTRA CHORUS LEADER Won't you just go away? Leave the house. [170] Electra, you're right beside your brother. Retrace your steps, and stop the shuffling. Check if hasn't died without your knowing. I'm worried—he's looking too relaxed. 230 [210] CHORUS He's asleep. ORESTES [waking up] O lovely charms of sleep which bring such help ELECTRA against disease, how sweetly you came over me You're right. O sacred lady Night, when I was in such need. Sacred Oblivion, who gives sleep to toiling mortal men, who removes all troubles, how wise you are, come from Erebus*, come, wing your way here for those who suffer from misfortune, to Agamemnon's home. In misery a goddess worth invoking in their prayers. and suffering we've gone astray. We're lost. [180] But where did I come from to get here? You're making noise again. O my dear friend, How did I reach this place? I can't recall. won't you keep quiet, stay silent, and take care I've lost all my earlier recollections. to keep your voice some distance from his bed? 210 Let him enjoy the peaceful gift of sleep. ELECTRA Dearest one, how happy it made me feel 240 CHORUS when you fell into that sleep. Do you want me Tell us what's in store to end his troubles. to hold you and to prop your body up? ELECTRA ORESTES Death. What else? He's lost desire for food. Yes, hold me. Give me some support. And wipe CHORUS the dried up foam from my sore mouth and eyes. [220] Then this is obviously his fate. [190] ELECTRA ELECTRA There. It's sweet to be able to help out. Phoebus made us his sacrificial offering I won't refuse to nurse my brother's limbs with his pitiful unnatural proposal with a sister's hand. to kill our mother, who killed our father. ORESTES CHORUS Support my side with yours, But it was just. and push the matted hair out of my face. My eyes aren't seeing very well. ELECTRA Yes, but not good. ELECTRA You killed, mother who bore me, O this filthy hair, your poor suffering head— 250 and were killed. You wiped out 220 so much time has passed since it's been washed, a father and children of your blood. you look just like a savage. We're done for, good as dead, destroyed. [200] ORESTES You're with the dead, and my own life Put me back, is gone—the greater part of it now spent on the bed again. Once the madness leaves, with groans, laments, and tears each night, I'm exhausted . . . no strength in my limbs. unmarried, childless—so pitiful—

5 ELECTRA with all kinds of trouble. There you are. ELECTRA The sick man loves his bed, a painful place, [230] Yes, Tyndareus but still it's necessary. fathered a race of notorious daughters, 280 ORESTES dishonoured throughout Greece. [250] Set me up again. ORESTES Turn my body round. The sick are helpless— Make sure you're different, that's why they're hard to please. not like those evil women. You can be. ELECTRA But don't just say it. You have to feel it. Would you like ELECTRA to have me put your feet down on the ground? Alas, brother, your eyes are growing wild. You haven't tried to walk for some time now. 260 In an instant you've again gone mad, A change is always pleasant. and just now you were thinking clearly. ORESTES ORESTES [in a fit] Yes, do that. Mother, I'm begging you, don't threaten me, It's better if I look as if I'm well, not those young snake girls with their bloodshot eyes. even though that's far from being true. They're here! They're closing in to jump on me! ELECTRA ELECTRA Now, my dear brother, listen to me, Poor suffering wretch, stay still there on your couch. 290 while the Erinyes let your mind stay clear. You think you see them clearly, but it's nothing— ORESTES there's nothing there for you to see. You've got some news. If it's good, you'll help me— ORESTES if harmful, I've had enough misfortune. [240] O Phoebus, [260] ELECTRA they're killing me, those dreadful goddesses, Menelaus has come, your father's brother. the fierce-eyed, bitch-faced priestesses of hell. His ships are anchored at Nauplia. ELECTRA [holding Orestes] ORESTES I'll not let go. I'll keep my arms around What are you saying? Has he just arrived 270 and stop you writhing in this painful fit. to be a light to save us from these troubles, ORESTES yours and mine, a man of our own family, Let go! You're one of those Furies of mine, with a sense of gratitude to father? grabbing me around the waist to throw me ELECTRA down into Tartarus! He's come—you can trust what I'm telling you— ELECTRA and he's brought Helen from the walls of Troy. I feel so wretched. ORESTES What help can I get when divine power 300 He'd be someone to envy even more is ranged against us? if he'd managed to survive all by himself. ORESTES By bringing back his wife, he's coming here Give me my horn-tipped bow,

6 Apollo's gift—he said I should use it by sitting here with me, then I'm done for. to defend myself against these goddesses You're the only help I've got. As you see, if they frightened me with bouts of madness. [270] all the others have abandoned me. One of those divine women will get hurt ELECTRA by a human hand if she doesn't move I won't leave. I choose to live here with you, out of my sight. Aren't you paying attention? even to die. The choice remains the same. Don't you see the feathered arrows speeding If you die, what will I, a woman, do? 350 from my far-shooting bow? Ah . . . ah . . . How will I be saved all on my own, Why are you waiting then? Use your wings 310 without a brother, father, or my friends? and soar into the upper air, and blame Still, I must do it, if you think it's right. [310] Apollo's oracles. But wait a moment! But set your body back down on the bed, Why am I raving and gasping for air? and don't fret too much about the terror, Where . . . where have I jumped? Out of bed? the agony that drives you from your bed. After the storm I see calm water once again. Lie still here on the couch. For even if Sister, why wrap your head in your dress and cry? [280] you're not really sick but think you're ill, I'm ashamed to make you share my suffering, that still makes people tired and confused. to bring distress to an unmarried girl with this sickness of mine. Don't pine away [Electra goes into the house] because of my misfortunes. Yes, it's true 320 you agreed to do it, but I'm the one CHORUS who shed our mother's blood. I blame Apollo, Aaaiiii . . . .you winged goddesses 360 who set me up to carry out the act, roaming in that manic frenzy, which was profane. His words encouraged me, your god-appointed privilege, but not his actions. And I think my father, not some Bacchic ritual if I'd looked him in the eye and asked him but one with tears, cries of grief— [320] if I should kill my mother, would've made you dark skinned kindly ones, many appeals to me, reaching for my chin, [290] racing through the wide expanse of air not to shove my sword into the neck demanding justice for blood, of the woman who'd given birth to me, 330 a penalty for murder, since he would not return into the light how I beseech you, beg you, and I'd be wretched, suffering ills like these. let the son of Agamemnon lose 370 So now, sister, take that veil off your head. all memory of furious madness. And stop your crying, even though our plight Alas! What harsh work you strove for, is desperate. When you see me in a fit, you poor man, when you received, you must reduce the harsh destructive parts from Phoebus' tripod, the oracle [330] inside my mind and soothe me. When you groan, which he delivered in his shrine, I must be beside you and comfort you that cavern where, so people say, with my advice. When people are close friends [300] one finds the navel of the earth.* it's a noble thing to offer help like that. 340 O Zeus, what pitiful event, But now, you poor girl, go inside the house. what bloody struggle is now here, Lie down and let your sleepless eyelids rest. goading you in your misfortune— 380 Have some food to eat and wash your body. an avenging spirit bringing tears For if you leave me or catch some illness 7 to add to all your tears, sending already coming here, I was expecting your mother's blood into your home to give a loving greeting to Orestes, 420 and driving you to raving madness? Agamemnon's son, and to his mother. I grieve for you—how I grieve for you. I assumed that they were doing well. Among mortal men great prosperity [340] But then I heard from some fisherman never lasts. No. Some higher spirit about the profane murder of the child shatters it like the sail on a fast ship of Tyndareus. Tell me now, you girls, and hurls it into waves of dreadful sorrow, where he may be, Agamemnon's son, as deadly as storm waves out at sea. 390 who dared this horrible atrocity. What other house should I still honour For back then, when I left home for Troy, as issuing from marriage with the gods he was a babe in Clytaemnestra's arms. apart from those who come from Tantalus?* So I wouldn't know him if I saw him. 430 [Menelaus enters, with an escort] [Orestes moves over unsteadily from his bed and crouches down in front of Menelaus] CHORUS

But look, the king is now approaching— ORESTES lord Menelaus. His magnificence [350] Menelaus, I am Orestes—the man [380] makes it plain to see that by his blood you asked about. I'm willing to reveal he comes from the sons of Tantalus. all the suffering I've been through. But first, Hail to you, who with a thousand ships I clasp your knees in supplication, set off in force for Asian land, and find and offer prayers from the mouth of a man good fortune now among your company. 400 who holds no suppliant branch.* Rescue me. With god's help you've managed to achieve It's the crucial moment of my suffering, all those things you prayed for. and you've arrived in person. MENELAUS MENELAUS O my home— O gods, I look on you with joy, now I've come back what's this I see? Which of the dead from Troy, but I'm also full of sorrow am I now looking at? at the sight, for never have I seen ORESTES another home surrounded in this way What you say is true. 440 with such harsh disaster. For I learned [360] With the agony I'm in, I'm not alive, of Agamemnon's fate, the death he suffered though I see daylight. at his wife's hand, as I steered my ship towards Malea.* The sailors' prophet, 410 MENELAUS truthful Glaucus, Nereus' seer, You're like a savage, told me from the waves. He placed himself you poor man, with that tangled hair. in open view and then said this to me: ORESTES 'Menelaus, your brother's lying dead— It's not my looks collapsed inside his bath, the final one which cause me grief. It's what I've done. his wife will give him.' His words made us, me and my sailors, weep many tears. MENELAUS When I touched land at Nauplia, with my wife [370] Your ravaged eyes—

8 that look of yours is dreadful. keeping watch beside her fire? ORESTES ORESTES My body's gone. [390] It was at night, But my name has not abandoned me. while I was waiting to collect the bones. MENELAUS MENELAUS You're an unsightly mess—not what I expected. Was someone there as your support? ORESTES ORESTES Here I am, my wretched mother's killer. Yes. Pylades was there—he acted with me MENELAUS in shedding blood, my mother's murder. So I've heard. Don't talk about it—such evils should be mentioned only sparingly. 450 MENELAUS You're sick from phantom apparitions. ORESTES What are they like? I'll not say much. But the divine spirit fills me with afflictions. ORESTES I thought I saw three girls— 470 MENELAUS they looked like Night. What's wrong with you? What's the sickness that's destroying you? MENELAUS I know the ones you mean. ORESTES But I have no wish to speak their names. It's here—in my mind—because I'm aware I've done something horrific.* ORESTES No. They incite awe. You acted properly [410] MENELAUS in not mentioning them. What do you mean? Wisdom comes from clarity. It's not obscure. MENELAUS Are they the ones ORESTES driving you insane family murder? It's the pain that's truly destroying me. ORESTES MENELAUS How miserably I suffer their attacks She's a fearful goddess, but there are cures. MENELAUS ORESTES But harsh suffering is not unusual Mad fits—retribution for my mother's blood. [400] for those who carry out such dreadful acts. MENELAUS ORESTES When did this frenzy start? What day was it? 460 But we do have a way out of our troubles. ORESTES MENELAUS On the day I was raising up the mound Don't talk of death—that's not wise. on my miserable mother's grave. ORESTES MENELAUS It was Phoebus 480 Were you in the house or sitting down

9 who ordered me to carry out the act, that people will not talk to me. my mother's murder. MENELAUS MENELAUS Have you cleansed Showing his ignorance your hands of blood in the appropriate way? 500 of what's good and right. ORESTES ORESTES No. Wherever I go, doors are shut to me. [430] We are mere slaves MENELAUS to the gods, whatever the gods are. Which citizens are forcing you to leave? MENELAUS ORESTES In this suffering of yours does Loxias Oeax, who holds my father responsible offer some relief? for that hateful war at Troy. ORESTES MENELAUS He's planning to. [420] I see. That's the nature of the gods. He seeks revenge for Palamedes' murder.* MENELAUS ORESTES And your mother— I had no part of that—I'm being killed, how long is it since she stopped breathing? but that death is two removes from me. ORESTES MENELAUS This is the sixth day. Her burial fires Who else? are still warm. Some of Aegisthus' friends, I imagine? MENELAUS ORESTES How quickly the goddesses 490 They slander me. Now the city listens. came for you because of your mother's blood. MENELAUS ORESTES Agamemnon's sceptre—does the city 510 God is not wise, but by nature he is true let you keep it? to those who are his friends.* ORESTES MENELAUS How could they do that? And your father— They won't let me stay alive. does he help you out for avenging him? MENELAUS ORESTES What will they do? Not yet. And if he's still intending to, Can you give me a definite idea? I call that the same as doing nothing. ORESTES MENELAUS Today there'll be a vote against us. [440] After what you've done how do you stand with the city? MENELAUS For you to leave the city? Or a vote ORESTES to kill or spare you? I am so despised

10 ORESTES into his sight because of what I've done. For death by stoning For he raised me when I was still a child. 540 by all the citizens. He filled my life with love and carried me, the child of Agamemnon, in his arms. MENELAUS And Leda did the same. They honoured me Why not escape— no less than they did those twins from Zeus.* flee across the border? O my miserable heart and spirit! ORESTES I have not paid them back a good return. We're surrounded What darkness can I find to hide my face? by soldiers, fully armed. What sort of cloud can I set in front of me to escape the eyes of that old man? MENELAUS [Tyndareus and his attendants move up to the palace] Private enemies or by a force of Argives? TYNDAREUS Where can I catch a glimpse of Menelaus, 550 [470] ORESTES my daughter's husband? Where? I was pouring The whole city— 520 libations on the grave of Clytaemnestra to make sure I die. There's no more to say. when I heard he'd arrived at Nauplia MENELAUS with his wife, home safe after all these years. Poor wretch. You're facing total disaster. Take me to him. I want to stand beside him, ORESTES on his right hand, and greet him as a friend My hope to get out of this emergency whom I'm seeing again after all these years. rests on you. You've come loaded with success. MENELAUS So share your prosperity with your friends [450] Welcome, old man whose head shared the same bed in desperate straits. Don't accept the benefits as Zeus himself. and keep them for yourself alone. Take on, TYNDAREUS in your turn, a portion of these troubles, Welcome to you, too, paying back my father's kindnesses for those Menelaus, my kinsman. Ah, it's bad 560 to whom you have an obligation. Those friends 530 we don't know what it is the future brings. who, when misfortune comes, aren't there to help Here's that dragon snake who killed his mother, are friends in name but not in deed. right outside the house, with his eyes flashing [480] [Enter Tyndareus with attendants] that sick glitter—an abomination to me. CHORUS LEADER Menelaus, you're not talking to him, Look— not to that impious wretch? the Spartan Tyndareus is coming here, MENELAUS shuffling on his old legs, wearing black robes, Why would I not? with short hair, in mourning for his daughter. He's the son of a father whom I loved. ORESTES TYNDAREUS I'm done for, Menelaus. Look at this— His natural son? And he turned out like this? Tyndareus is coming up to us. [460] MENELAUS I feel particularly ashamed to come Yes, he's his son by birth. If he's in trouble,

11 I must respect him. with his death, where will these disasters end? Our ancestors dealt with these issues well. TYNDAREUS They did not let a man with bloody hands You're a barbarian— 570 come in their sight or cross their path. Instead, you've been so long among the savages. they purified him, not by killing him MENELAUS as a punishment, no, they banished him. In Greece we always honour relatives. Otherwise, the man who has pollution on his hands last is always going to face TYNDAREUS his own murder. I hate an evil woman, And we don't wish to be above the law. especially my daughter who slaughtered 610 [520] MENELAUS her own husband. And I'll never approve But among those with some intelligence of Helen, your wife, or even speak to her. anything that's forced is something slavish. I don't think much of your voyage to Troy TYNDAREUS for the sake of that worthless woman. But with all my power I'll defend the law You hold to that. I'll not subscribe to it. to put an end to this bestial killing, MENELAUS which always destroys the land and city. Your anger and old age are not being wise. [Tyndareus moves up to Orestes] TYNDAREUS What's a dispute about such foolishness You miserable creature, what was in your mind have to do with him? If what's good or bad when your mother exposed her breasts to you is plain to all, who has been more stupid 580 and begged? I did not see that dreadful sight, 620 than this fellow? He didn't figure out but still my ancient eyes dissolve in tears. what justice required. Nor did he turn to And there's one thing which supports my case— [530] the common practices among the Greeks. the gods do hate you, and you're being punished When Agamemnon took his final breath, for your mother with roaming fits of fear after my daughter struck him on his head— and madness. Why do I need to attend to a shameful act, which I never will defend— other witnesses, when I can see it he should have gone after just punishment [500] for myself? So you should keep this in mind, for bloodshed and followed what's appropriate Menelaus—don't act against the gods in our religion, throwing his mother by wanting to assist this man. Let him out of the house. He would've won himself, 590 be stoned to death by the citizens, 630 instead of this disaster, some credit or else don't set foot on Spartan land. for moderation. And he'd have followed My daughter's dead. And that deed was just. the law and been a righteous man. But now, But she should not have died at that man's hand. he's come to the same fate as his mother. I was born a fortunate man in all things [540] He was right to think that she was wicked, except my daughters. There I've been unlucky. but he's made himself more evil killing her. CHORUS LEADER I'll ask you this question, Menelaus. The man who's fortunate in his children, If a man's wedded wife should murder him who does not get ones which bring on him and the son, in his turn, killed his mother, [510] notorious trouble—that's a man to envy. and after that the son pay for the murder 600 ORESTES 12 I'm afraid to talk to you, old man, It's not a good thing to recall the gods at a time when I'm bound to pain your heart. 640 in a defence against a charge of murder, Let your age, which hinders me from speaking, but if by saying nothing I endorsed [580] be set aside, and I'll proceed. But now, my mother's act, what would the murdered man your gray hair makes me too hesitant. have done to me? Would he now hate me I know my mother's murder has made me and terrify me with his band of Furies? unholy, and yet, in another sense, Or does my mother have those goddesses a pious man who avenged his father. [550] as her allies, but he does not, although What should I have done? Set these two things he's the one who's been more greatly wronged. 690 against each other. My father planted me, You've destroyed me, old man—yes, you have— your daughter bore me—she was the plough land you're the father of a wicked daughter. who received the seed from someone else. 650 Thanks to her outrageous act, I have lost Without a father there would never be a father and become my mother's killer. a child. I reasoned that I ought to take You notice Telemachus did not kill the side of the one who gave me being, Odysseus' wife, for she did not marry rather than the woman who undertook husband after husband, and in their home [590] to raise me. Now your daughter—I'm ashamed their bedroom remained quite unpolluted. to call her mother—went to a man's bed Do you see Apollo, who makes his home in a private and an unwise marriage. at earth's navel stone and gives mortal men 700 When I say bad things against her, I speak the clearest spoken words, whom we obey against myself, but nonetheless I will. [560] in all he says—I was obeying him At home Aegisthus was her secret husband. 660 when I killed my mother. Call him impious, I killed the man, and then I sacrificed and kill him. It was his mistake, not mine. my mother. I did an unholy act, What should I have done? Or is the god but I did get vengeance for my father. not good enough to cleanse me of my crime As for the reasons you now threaten me when I turn to him? Where else can one flee, with death by stoning, you should listen to if he who commanded me to do it how I am benefiting all of Greece. cannot rescue me from death? So don't say If women grow so bold they start to kill this action was not done appropriately, 710 [600] their husbands and then seek to find safety but rather that it didn't work out well with their children, fishing for sympathy for those who did it. Among mortal men, with their breasts, they'd start killing husbands 670 when marriages are properly set up, for any reason and would pay no price. [570] their life is blessed. But those whose marriages You claim I committed a dreadful crime, fall out badly have no luck, indoors and out. but I've put an end to practices like that. CHORUS LEADER I hated my mother and killed her justly. Women by nature always interfere She betrayed her husband, who was away in the affairs of men, with bad results. with the army, commander of all Greeks, and didn't keep his bed free of dishonour. TYNDAREUS When she understood the mistake she'd made Since you speak so boldly and hide nothing, she didn't face up to the penalty. but give me answers which will pain my heart, No. In order to escape being punished, 680 you'll spur me on to bring about your death. 720 she murdered my father. By the gods! I'll count that as an extra benefit [610] 13 in the work for which I came here, to dress and then make up your mind. my daughter's grave. I'll go to the Argives, MENELAUS to their assembly, set them against you You're right. Speak up. and your sister, against their will or not— There are times when silence may be better, you'll pay the penalty, death by stoning. but there are also times when speaking She deserves to die even more than you. is preferable to silence. She incited you against your mother, always carrying stories for your ears ORESTES to make you hate her more, reporting dreams 730 Then I'll speak. 760 of Agamemnon and her sexual life A long speech is better than a short one [640] with Aegisthus—may gods below the earth and it's much clearer for the listener, too. despise it—it was bitter up here, too, [620] You don't have to give me anything of yours, until she set the house ablaze with flames Menelaus, just pay back what you took, not kindled by Hephaestus. I tell you this, what you got from my father—not property, Menelaus, and I will do it, too. that's not what I mean. If you save my life, So if you give my hatred any weight that's the dearest thing I own. I've done wrong. and my relationship to you through marriage, To counter this bad act, I have to get don't act in opposition to the gods— an unjust deed from you, for my father, do not protect this man from death. Leave him 740 Agamemnon, did wrong when he gathered 770 for the citizens to kill by stoning, those Greeks to go to Troy, and not because or don't set foot on Spartan land. Listen, he made mistakes himself, no, but to heal [650] and understand this well. You must not choose the error and injustice of your wife.* ungodly men as friends, pushing aside And for this one act you should pay me back. the ones who act more righteously. You men, For he willingly sacrificed his life, lead me away. Take me from this house. as family members should for those they love, toiling hard in battle right beside you, [Tyndareus and his attendants leave] so you could have your wife back. Pay me back in the same way for what you received there, ORESTES working hard for just one day, not ten years. 780 Well, be off with you, so that what I say [630] Stand up, and save me. As for what Aulis took may reach this man without interruption, with my sister slaughtered as a sacrifice, quite free from your old age. Menelaus, I'll let you have that. You don't have to kill why are you walking around, lost in thought, 750 Hermione. For in my present plight, going back and forth, as if quite divided you must have the upper hand. That I grant. in what you're thinking? But offer my poor father my own life MENELAUS and my sister's. For a long time now [660] Leave me alone. she's been unmarried, and if I die, I'm debating with myself. I'm not sure I'll leave my father's house without an heir. which course of action I should follow. You'll say it can't be done. But that's the point. 790 Kinsmen must help their friends when things are bad. ORESTES When fortune gives success, what need of friends? Don't decide on what seems to be the case. When god is keen to help, then his assistance First listen to the things I have to say is quite sufficient. All of Greece believes 14 you love your wife—and I'm not saying this [670] whatever you want from them. For people to win your favour with mere flattery— do have pity, as well as their great passion, but I am appealing to you in her name. a quality of utmost value to the man O this wretched situation I am in! who looks for it. And so on your behalf How did I get into something like this? I'll go and try to convince Tyndareus What then? Well, I have to go through with it. 800 and the city to act on their passions I'm making this appeal for my whole house. wisely. For a ship can take on water 840 O uncle, you're brother to my father. if the sheet is pulled too tight, but if Imagine if, from his grave, the dead man one eases off the rope, then that ship is listening to this and if his spirit will once more right itself. The god does hate is hovering above you and saying excessive zeal, as do the citizens. what I say with these laments and tears I must save you—I don't deny the fact— in this misfortune. I've given my speech but by using cleverness, not by force [710] and pleaded to be saved, chasing after against a stronger group. I'd not save you what all men seek, not just myself alone. with power alone, as you perhaps may think. It's not easy to take a stand and win CHORUS LEADER with a single spear against the troubles 850 Although I'm just a woman, I too beg you 810 [680] which afflict you. It never was my style to help these people when they're in such need. to try to soften up the Argive state, You have the power to do that. but now it must be done—the wise man MENELAUS is a slave to circumstance. Orestes, I do respect you, and I want to share [Menelaus and his attendants leave] these troubles with you. Besides, it's right ORESTES to help one's family members in bad times, You're useless, if god gives one the power, by killing except to head up an expedition their enemies and even dying oneself. for a woman's sake, the worst of men I need to get that power from the gods. in helping out your friends. Are you turning I'm here without a group of fighting spearmen, your back on me and running off, [720] after roaming through thousands of troubles 820 so Agamemnon's cause has disappeared? with the small help of my surviving friends. [690] O father, once things have turned out badly 860 In any fight we could not overcome you have no friends. Alas, I've been betrayed, Pelasgian Argos. If we could prevail and there's no longer any hope for me with reassuring words, then that's where of turning somewhere and escaping death I'd place my hopes. For how can any man at Argive hands. For that Menelaus achieve great things with small resources? was my refuge, my way of being saved. It's foolishness to even wish for that. For when people fall into a frenzy [Pylades enters] it's like a blazing fire, hard to put out. But I see Pylades, my greatest friend, If one, in responding to the tension, 830 rushing here from Phocis. A welcome sight! gently eases off one's grip, backs away, A man who can be trusted in hard times and times things right, it may blow itself out. is finer to behold than tranquil waters If the winds die down, you could easily get [700] 15 for men at sea. PYLADES Where is she, that one woman who destroyed PYLADES all those Achaeans? I've come through the city, 870 and I had to move quickly once I heard [730] ORESTES and clearly witnessed for myself the crowds She's in my home— of citizens gathering there against you if it's all right to call it mine. and your sister so they can kills you both PYLADES without delay. What's going on? How are you? What did you say What are you doing? Of people my own age, to your father's brother? friends and relatives, you are my favourite. You're all those things to me. ORESTES Not to just look on ORESTES while the townsfolk killed me and my sister. I am done for— those few words make clear to you my troubles. PYLADES By the gods, how did he respond to you? PYLADES That I'd like to know. Then you must do away with me as well. 880 Friends share things in common. ORESTES He was cautious— ORESTES the way false friends act with their families. 900 Menelaus is the worst of men to me and to my sister. PYLADES What sort of excuses did he offer? PYLADES Once I know that, I'll understand it all. It's natural enough that any man with a bad wife should grow bad himself. ORESTES That man arrived—the one who has produced [750] ORESTES those splendid daughters. His coming here was as much help to me as if he hadn't come. PYLADES Ah, you mean Tyndareus. PYLADES I suppose he was all worked up at you So it's true then for his daughter's sake? that he's arrived and landed here? ORESTES ORESTES You have that right. He took a while, but in no time at all [740] And Menelaus preferred family ties showed he was an enemy to his friends. with him instead of with my father. PYLADES PYLADES That wife of his—the nastiest of women— 890 So when he was here he lacked the courage did he bring her on his ship? to share you troubles. ORESTES ORESTES No, not him. No. He wasn't born 910 She's the one who brought him here.

16 a warrior. He's brave among the women. or is it one the townsfolk share? PYLADES PYLADES So you're in the gravest danger and must die? He claims 930 it's an unholy sacrilege to help you ORESTES in murdering your own mother. The citizens must cast their votes on us about the murder. ORESTES That's bad news. PYLADES It seems what's hurting me is harming you, as well. What must the vote decide? Tell me. I'm growing fearful. PYLADES It's something I have to bear. I'll not act ORESTES like Menelaus. For life or death— it's not something that takes much time to say ORESTES though it involves something that lasts forever. But aren't you afraid [770] Argos will want to kill you, just like me? PYLADES Leave the palace now, flee with you sister. PYLADES I'm not theirs to punish. I'm from Phocis. ORESTES Do you not see how we're both being watched, [760] ORESTES with armed guards on every side? The mob is nasty, when it has leaders bent on doing wrong. PYLADES I noticed 920 PYLADES streets in town blocked off by men with weapons. But when it's controlled by decent men, the decisions they make 940 ORESTES are always good. We're physically hemmed in, like a city by its enemies. ORESTES All right. We must think this through, PYLADES working together. You must ask me now how I'm doing, for I, too am quite destroyed.. PYLADES What must we do? ORESTES By whom? This would add further disasters ORESTES to the ones I face. What if I went and told the citizens . . . PYLADES PYLADES [interrupting] Strophius, my father, . . . that what you did was just? has banished me—he was so furious ORESTES he sent me from the house. I sought revenge ORESTES for my father's sake? What's the charge PYLADES he's leveling against you, something private

17 They might be happy that's how it looks to them. to grab hold of you. ORESTES ORESTES And someone there Am I to cower down might pity me . . . and die without a word? PYLADES [interrupting] PYLADES Yes, your noble birth That's cowardly. is a great asset. ORESTES ORESTES Then what should I do? . . . being so upset at my father's death. PYLADES If you stayed here, PYLADES would you have a way of being rescued? All that's easy to see. 960 ORESTES ORESTES No. I don't have anything. I have to go. It's not a manly thing to die a shameful death. PYLADES And if you left, 950 PYLADES is there some hope you might be saved? I agree with you. ORESTES ORESTES Perhaps— [780] Should we tell my sister? there might be. PYLADES PYLADES By the gods, no. That's better than staying here, then. ORESTES ORESTES There'd certainly be tears. All right, I'll go. PYLADES PYLADES That'd be a serious omen. At least that way, if you die, ORESTES you'll die more nobly. It's clear it's better to say nothing. ORESTES PYLADES You're right—this way And you'll save time. I won't be a coward. ORESTES PYLADES There's just one problem for me. [790] More than staying here. PYLADES ORESTES What now? Are you talking of something new? And my action was right. ORESTES PYLADES I'm worried the goddesses will stop me Just make a prayer

18 with this madness. against my side, so I can carry you through town. I won't be worrying about PYLADES the crowds or feeling any sense of shame. But I'll take care of you. For how can I show I'm a friend of yours ORESTES if I don't help when you're in serious trouble? It's unpleasant looking after someone sick.. 970 ORESTES PYLADES That's the point. Make sure you get good comrades Not to me. Not when I'm looking after you. and not just relatives. A man may be 990 from somewhere else, but if he bonds with you ORESTES in how you act, then he's a better friend, Be careful you don't start my madness. than a thousand members of one's family. PYLADES [Pylades and Orestes leave] Don't worry over that. CHORUS ORESTES That great prosperity and lofty name You won't hold back? so proudly celebrated throughout Greece PYLADES and there beside the waters of the Simois It's a great evil to hold back with friends. has declined once more from the success [810] ORESTES of Atreus' sons so many years ago— Then, you pilot of my steps, let's go now. from an old misfortune in their house, when strife came to the sons of Tantalus 1000 PYLADES about a golden ram, the saddest feasts That's a service I'm glad to undertake. and slaughter of children nobly born, ORESTES that's why murder moves on to murder And lead me to my father's tomb. through blood and does not leave alone the double line of Atreus.* PYLADES Why there? What's good is not good, to slice up [820] a parent's flesh with metal forged in fire ORESTES and to display in the sun's light a sword So I may appeal to him to save me. stained black with murdered blood. To commit PYLADES a virtuous crime is sheer profanity, 1010 That's the righteous thing to do. the mad delusion of wrong-thinking men. The wretched daughter of Tyndareus, ORESTES terrified of death, screamed at him, "My child, May I not glimpse don't you dare carry out such sacrilege the memorial to my mother! and slaughter your own mother—in honouring PYLADES your father, don't tie yourself to such disgrace, No, not that. 980 such shame which lasts for an eternity." [830] She was your enemy. But you must hurry— What affliction or distress, what agony the vote the Argives cast may catch you first. in all the earth surpasses this, to have Lean your side that's weakened by disease [800] on one's own hands a mother's murdered blood? 1020

19 For undertaking such a act, the man I've been afraid of it a long time now, [860] has been driven into fits of madness, dissolved in sorrow for what might come true. prey hunted by the Kindly Ones, his eyes How was the trial? What did the Argives say 1050 rolling in her whirling blood, the son to convict us and ratify our deaths? of Agamemnon. The miserable wretch, [840] Tell me, old man, whether my life will end when he saw his mother's breast appear by stoning or a sword—for I do share above her dress, a robe of woven gold, in those misfortunes of my brother? he made his own mother a sacrifice MESSENGER to avenge the sufferings of his father. I happened to be coming from the country [Enter Electra from the house] and was coming through the gates—I wanted to find out about you and Orestes. ELECTRA I always liked your father, and your house You women, has poor Orestes left the house, 1030 gave me food. I was poor but honourable [870] overcome by that madness from the gods? in helping out my friends. I saw a crowd 1060 CHORUS LEADER going up and sitting on the higher ground No. He's gone to the people in Argos, where, they say, Danaus first gathered up to give himself up for the vote they've set, his people and they sat down together in which you two must live or die. to judge the charge against him by Aegyptus.* Seeing the crowd, I asked a citizen, ELECTRA What's new in Argos? Has some news report Alas! Why did he do that? Who convinced him? about an enemy caused a great stir [A Messenger appears, coming toward the house] in this city of Danaus' descendants? CHORUS LEADER He said, "Don't you see Orestes coming, Pylades did. But this messenger, it seems, [850] rushing to a trial where his life's at stake." 1070 will soon tell us news about your brother, Then I saw something I did not expect— what happened to him there. how I wish I'd never seen it!—Pylades [880] and your brother moving there together, MESSENGER one with his head down and doubled over You poor girl, by his infirmity and the other, unhappy daughter of Agamemnon, like a brother, sharing his friend's troubles, our army's leader, lady Electra, 1040 caring for his sickness as if he were hear the disastrous news I bring you. schooling a young boy. Once the Argives ELECTRA had gathered in a crowd, a herald stood Alas! We're finished! Your words are clear enough— and cried, "Who desires to make a speech 1080 you've come, it seems, with disastrous news. whether Orestes should be killed or not for his mother's murder?" Talthybius stood, MESSENGER the man who helped your father demolish Pelasgians have, in their vote, decreed those Phrygians.* He spoke ambiguously— that you, unhappy lady, are to die, well, he's always been a subordinate you and your brother on this very day.* of those in power—praising your father [890] ELECTRA but saying nothing good about your brother, Alas! What I been expecting has arrived— weaving good and misleading words together,

20 claiming it would be setting up bad laws to avenge his father, who'd been murdered concerning parents, and all the time 1090 by an abominable, godless woman— he kept looking at Aegisthus' friends she'd stop men taking up their weapons with those bright eyes of his. The herald tribe and fighting foreign wars, if those people is like that—they're always jumping over who stayed behind corrupted things at home to the side of the successful. Any man by abusing the men's wives. What he said who has ruling power in the city appeared convincing, at least to decent folk. [930] is a friend of theirs. After he'd finished, There were no other speakers. Your brother lord Diomedes spoke. He was against [900] then came up and said, "You who are the heirs 1140 killing you or your brother but proposed of Inachus, who were Pelasgians they act with reverence and as punishment so long ago, then sons of Danaus, use exile. Some of the people there roared out 1100 I was fighting on your behalf, no less that what he'd said was good, but then others than for my father, when I killed my mother. didn't favour the idea. But after that, For if the fact that women murder men a man stood up who can't keep his mouth shut, is permitted, you'll be dead in no time, whose strength comes from his boldness—an Argive, or else we'll have to be the women's slaves— but not from Argos—and forced himself on us and you'll be doing the very opposite relying on bluster, ignorant free speech, of what you should be doing. As it is, persuasive enough to get them involved the woman who betrayed my father's bed 1150 in some bad scheme or other. When a man is dead, but if you execute me now, [940] with bad intentions but a pleasing style the law would be relaxed, and men will die persuades a mob, that's a great disaster 1110 as fast as possible—there'll be no lack for the city, but those who always give [910] of such audacity." His speech was good, useful, sound advice, even if their words but he could not convince the crowd. Instead, are not immediately appropriate, the verdict of the entire group was for are beneficial later to the state. the nasty rogue who spoke out in favour That's how one should view a party leader— of executing you and your brother. what happens with a man who gives a speech Poor Orestes just managed to persuade them is much the same as with a man in office. not to stone him to death, by promising 1160 Well, this man said that you and Orestes to end his life, to die by his own hand, should be stoned to death. But Tyndareus along with you, as well, this very day. was the one who laid down the arguments 1120 Pylades, in tears, is bringing him here the speaker used to urge you both be killed. from the assembly. His friends are coming, [950] Another man stood up opposing him. weeping and lamenting. This spectacle, He wasn't much to look at physically, so painful for you, is heading this way, but the man had courage. He rarely came a distressing sight. Get your swords ready into the city and the market place. or a noose around your neck—you must leave He was a farmer—they're the only ones [920] the light. Your noble birth has been no help. who keep our country going—but clever Nor has Phoebus in Delphi, seated there 1170 and keen to wrestle with the argument, on his tripod. He's destroyed you instead. someone with integrity, who lived a life [The Messenger leaves] beyond reproach. He said they should crown 1130 Orestes, Agamemnon's son, who wished CHORUS LEADER 21 O you unfortunate girl, you're speechless, From that there came upon my house with your clouded face bent toward the ground, a dreadful curse, when Maia's son as if you'll rush to cry and make laments. arranged a birth within the flocks, the lamb with a fleece of gold, ELECTRA ominous portent of the ruin O Pelasgia, now I start to weep, [960] of horse-breeding Atreus. [1000] pushing white nails through my cheeks, Because of that, Strife then reversed blood lacerations, and striking my head, Sun's winged chariot to a western path actions appropriate to Persephone, across the sky by placing under yoke 1220 lovely child goddess of the world below. the snow-white horses of the Dawn Let the Cyclopian land now wail aloud 1180 and Zeus changed onto another path the sorrows of this house, setting iron the moving seven-tracked Pleiades* against its head to shave it close.* Death followed death at that banquet Pity, yes, pity now comes forward to which Thyestes gave his name for those who are about to die, and the bed of Aerope from Crete, once war leaders of the Greeks. [970] a traitor in her deceitful marriage.* [1010] It's gone—the entire race of Pelops, The final chapter comes with me passed away and gone, all the glory and with my father in these troubles, that once made it a blessed house. all these afflictions laid on our house. 1230 Envy from the gods seized them— [Pylades and Orestes enter] and that hateful vote for blood 1190 among the citizens. Alas, alas, CHORUS LEADER you tribes of men bowed down with work, Look, here comes your brother, condemned to die who live a brief life full of tears, by general vote, and with him Pylades, see how Fate moves to thwart your hopes. the truest of all men, like a brother, As time run on at length, different men guiding his sick limbs, treading carefully take turns with different troubles, [980] like a pace horse giving its support. and all of human life remains uncertain. ELECTRA If only I could reach that boulder Alas! My brother, I'm seeing you here hanging in the winds on chains of gold before your tomb, confronting face to face mid way between the earth and heaven, 1200 the gates of those below, and I weep. that fragment carried from Olympus, Alas, once more! This last sight of you [1020] so I could shout out my laments before my eyes will make me lose my mind. 1240 to old father Tantalus, who sired ORESTES and made my house's ancestors. Why can't you just be quiet and finish off the ones who witnessed such disasters— these womanish laments for what's been done? the race of flying horses, when Pelops It's pitiful, but still you must endure in a four-horse chariot raced to the sea [990] the circumstances we now face. and murdered Myrtilus by hurling him into the ocean swell, driving his chariot ELECTRA near Geraestus, where the surging sea 1210 But how foams white along the shore.* can I stay silent? We poor sufferers

22 will no longer see the sun god's light. O my dearest one! O that longed-for name, 1270 so very sweet to your own sister— ORESTES whose spirit is one with yours. Don't be so tedious. It's quite enough that I'll be suffering a wretched death ORESTES at Argive hands. So just set aside You'll melt my heart. your present sorrow. I want to respond to you with loving arms. And why should a wretch like me still feel shame? ELECTRA Alas for your sad youth, 1250 [Orestes embraces Electra] Orestes, and for your early death. Ah, my sister's heart, how I love holding you! You should live on, but now you'll be no more. [1030] For us in our misery these pleasures [1050] ORESTES replace our children and a marriage bed. By the gods, you'll strip me of my manhood— ELECTRA by bringing our calamities to mind If only the same sword could kill us both, you'll have me crying. if that's permitted, and one burial chamber ELECTRA made of cedar wood receive us both. 1280 We're going to die. ORESTES It's impossible not to grieve for that. That would be very sweet. But you do see It's pitiful. To all men life is sweet. we're short of friends who'd let us share a tomb. ORESTES ELECTRA This is our appointed day. So we must Did that coward Menelaus, the one sharpen a sword or fix a hanging noose. who betrayed my father, not speak out ELECTRA on your behalf, making some attempt Then you kill me, my brother, so no Argive 1260 to stop you being killed? executes me and starts hurling insults ORESTES at Agamemnon's children. Not at all— ORESTES he didn't even show his face. His hopes I won't kill you. were on the sceptre, so he was careful It's enough to have my mother's blood on me. not to save the members of his family. No. You must die by your own hand somehow— [1040] But come now, as we move to our deaths 1290 [1060] in whatever way you wish. let's act bravely, in a way that's worthy of Agamemnon. So I, for my part, ELECTRA will show the city I am nobly born, All right, then. when I push the sword into my liver. I won't lag behind you with my sword. You, in turn, must match my courage. But I want to hug you around your neck Pylades, you must supervise our deaths— ORESTES when we're dead, dress our bodies properly. Enjoy that empty pleasure, if embraces Carry them to our father's burial mound bring any joy to those about to die. and bury us together. So farewell. I'm on my way to do it, as you see. 1300 ELECTRA [embracing Orestes]

23 [Orestes starts to move into the house] go to my death along with you and her. Since I consented to the marriage, 1330 PYLADES I consider her my wife. What would I say Hold on! There's first something I blame you for— if I ever came to the land of Delphi, if you believed I'd want to go on living [1070] and reached the high citadel of Phocis, after you were dead. if I'd been your friend before your troubles ORESTES but was no longer any friend of yours Why is it right now you're in this distress? I can't do that. that you should die with me? I'm involved in this, as well. Since we'll die let's see if we can find a way together PYLADES to make Menelaus miserable as well. You're asking that? How can I live without you as my friend? ORESTES My dearest friend, if only I could see 1340 [1100] ORESTES something like that before I die. You didn't kill your mother, as I did, to my misfortune. PYLADES Then listen. PYLADES You must postpone this sword blow. I acted with you. For that I should have to suffer something. ORESTES I will, ORESTES if I can get even with my enemy. Surrender your body to your father. Don't die with me. You still have a city. 1310 PYLADES [indicating the Chorus] I do not. You have your father's house Be quiet. I don't have much confidence and the safety of great wealth. You failed in these women. to marry my poor sister, as I promised ORESTES out of a sense of our companionship. Don't worry about them. But you must take another marriage bed [1080] These women here are friends of ours. and have children. The family bonds we had no longer hold with you and me. Be happy, PYLADES beloved face of my great friend. For us Let's murder Helen—for Menelaus that is impossible, but you can be— that would be a bitter pain. we dead lack any sources of delight. 1320 ORESTES PYLADES But how? How far you are from understanding I'm prepared to do it, if there's a chance what my intentions are. May fruitful earth we'd pull it off. refuse to take my blood and the bright sky PYLADES my spirit, if ever I betray you, By hacking her to death. 1350 if I let myself go free and leave you. She's hiding in your house. I did the murder, too. I don't deny it. And I planned all those things for which you now [1090] ORESTES are paying the penalty. And so I must That's true enough.

24 In fact, she's stamping her seal on everything. PYLADES We'll parade our grief PYLADES for what we're suffering in front of her. 1370 Not any more. She's engaged to Hades. ORESTES ORESTES So she'll begin to weep, though on the inside How do we do it? She has attendants— [1110] she'll be overjoyed. those barbarians. PYLADES PYLADES Then the state she's in What do they matter? will match our own. I'm not afraid of any Phrygians. ORESTES ORESTES After that, what do we do The kind of men who take care of mirrors according to our plan? and look after perfumes! PYLADES PYLADES We'll have swords Did she come here hidden in our clothes. bringing the luxuries of Troy with her? ORESTES ORESTES And her attendants— Oh yes. For her Greece is too small a space 1360 do we kill them first? to live in. PYLADES PYLADES We'll lock them up The race of slaves is nothing in different places in the house compared to those who're free. ORESTES ORESTES And anyone If I do this, who won't keep quiet we'll have to kill. I'm not afraid of dying twice. PYLADES PYLADES Once that's done, the job itself will tell us Nor am I, where we direct our efforts. if I'm getting my revenge for you. ORESTES ORESTES Helen's murder. 1380 [1130] Explain the plan—keep on describing I know what that means. what you were talking about. PYLADES PYLADES That's right. We'll go in, Now listen to how well I've planned this out. inside the house, as if we're on our way If we drew our swords against a woman to kill ourselves. with greater moderation, the killing ORESTES would be notorious, but as it is, I understand that part. [1120] she'll pay the penalty to all of Greece— But I don't get the rest. she killed their fathers, destroyed their children,

25 and robbed married women of their husbands— Yes, I was born son of Agamemnon, there'll be shouts of joy, people lighting fires who was considered worthy to rule Greece. to the gods and calling many blessings down 1390 He was no tyrant yet had god-like strength. on you and me for carrying out the murder I will not disgrace him, going to my death 1430 [1170] of such an evil woman. With her death as if I were a slave. No. My life force you won't be called "killer of your mother"— [1140] I shall release quite freely. And I'll take you'll move past that and find a better name. revenge on Menelaus. If we could get They'll call you killer of Helen, the one just one thing, we could get lucky—some way who slaughtered thousands. It can't be right, to save ourselves despite all expectations it never would be right for Menelaus might fall our way from somewhere, so we'd kill to keep being successful while your father, and not get killed ourselves. I pray for that. your sister, and yourself go to their deaths, It's sweet to talk about what I desire and your mother . . . but I'll avoid that subject 1400 in words with wings which cheer my spirit as something indelicate to mention, and don't cost anything. or for him to have your house—after all, ELECTRA it was thanks to Agamemnon's spear Brother, I think 1440 he got his wife back. May I stop living I've got the very thing you're praying for, if we don't pull out our swords against her! a way of rescuing the three of us, If we don't succeed in killing Helen, you, him, and me. before we die we'll set the house on fire. [1150] We won't fail to win at least one glory— ORESTES a noble death or a fine salvation. You mean divine good will? That can't be it, because I know your mind [1180] CHORUS LEADER is too intelligent for that. Tyndareus' daughter disgraced her sex 1410 ELECTRA and justly earned the hatred of all women. Just listen— ORESTES and you, Pylades, pay attention, too. Ah me, a true friend—there's nothing better, ORESTES not wealth or sovereignty. One cannot count All right, talk. The idea that there's good news what one would exchange for a noble friend. makes me feel good. You're the one who devised those nasty things against Aegisthus, then stayed at my side ELECTRA when danger threatened. And now once again [1160] You know Helen's daughter? you're offering me a way of punishing Of course, you do. my enemies and are not running off. ORESTES But I'll stop praising you—excessive praise 1420 Yes, I know Hermione. can prove a burden. Now, in any case, My mother raised her. since my spirit is going to breathe its last, I want to do something to my enemies ELECTRA before I die, so I can demolish, Well, she's gone off 1450 in their turn, those who were traitors to me to Clytaemnestra's grave. and make those who made me suffer grieve. ORESTES

26 What's she doing there? I hope that happens. What hope are you suggesting? May she come to the city of Phocis 1480 full honoured with fine wedding songs! [1210] ELECTRA She's gone to pour ORESTES libations on our mother's burial mound. How long before Hermione gets home? All the things you said were really good, ORESTES provided we succeed in seizing her, How does what you've said help us to safety? that whelp of a sacrilegious father. ELECTRA ELECTRA Seize her on her way back. Make her a hostage. I expect she's already near the house, ORESTES judging from the length of time she's taken. We three here are friends—so what remedy [1190] ORESTES are you suggesting for us? Good. Now, Electra, you remain right here. ELECTRA Wait in front of the house for her return. Once Helen's dead, And keep an eye out, in case anyone— 1490 if Menelaus tries to do something my uncle or one of his associates— to you or him or me—for this friendship comes too near the house before the murder. [1220] unites us all as one—tell him you'll kill 1460 If so, make a signal to those inside, Hermione. You must pull out your sword by knocking on the door or sending word. and hold it here, across the young girl's throat. Pylades, we'll go in and arm ourselves, Once Menelaus sees Helen collapsed get swords in hand to finish this last fight— in her own blood, if he tries to save you, you'll help me in carrying out the work. because he doesn't want the girl to die, O father living at home in murky night, then let her father have Hermione back, your son Orestes is summoning you but if his passions get the best of him to come and stand by those who need your help. 1500 and he seeks your death, cut the young girl's neck. In this distress I'm suffering injustice I think he'll put on quite a show at first, [1200] for your sake. I've acted righteously, but soon enough his temper will calm down. 1470 but I've been betrayed by your own brother He's not a bold courageous man by nature. Now I wish to take his wife and kill her— That's the defence I have to rescue us. be our accomplice in this act. [1230] That's it. I'm finished. ELECTRA ORESTES O father, You've got a man's heart, do come, if from there beneath the earth though your body shows that you're a woman. you hear the calls of your own children How much more you deserve to stay alive who are dying for your sake. than die. Pylades, it would be bad luck PYLADES if you were to lose a woman like this, O Agamemnon, but if you live, you'll be a happy man my father's kinsman, hear my prayers as well— to share her marriage bed. save your children. PYLADES ORESTES

27 I murdered my mother . . . 1510 Place yourselves where you can watch the house— some of you there on the chariot roadway, ELECTRA some of you here along the other path. I handed him the sword . . . CHORUS LEADER PYLADES Why are you calling me to do these tasks? I urged him on Tell me, dear girl. and overcame his hesitation. ELECTRA ORESTES I'm afraid someone I was defending you, father. may come across the murderous bloodshed ELECTRA in the house and witness new disasters And I to add to old calamities. did not betray you. FIRST SEMI-CHORUS PYLADES Let's hurry on our way. Surely you'll listen Let's go. I'll stand guard on this pathway, to these reproaches and save your children. the one towards the east. ORESTES SECOND SEMI-CHORUS I'm pouring a libation to you in my tears. And I'll guard this road, 1540 [1260] the one towards the west. ELECTRA And I with my laments. ELECTRA Keep your eyes moving PYLADES back and forth, checking on both sides. Stop this now. [1240] Let's get to work. If it's true that prayers CHORUS do pierce the ground, then he is listening. Back and forth, then once more back again— O ancestral Zeus and holy Justice, 1520 I'm following what you said. grant success to him, to her, to me, ELECTRA to three friends facing a single struggle, Keep your eyes alert. a single punishment—we all will live, Let them see everything through that hair of yours. or pay the price and die. FIRST SEMI-CHORUS [Orestes and Pylades enter the house. Electra turns to face the Chorus] Who's that man approaching down the road? ELECTRA What country fellow's wandering round your home? [1270] O you women of Mycenae, my friends, ELECTRA among the first ranks of those who live We're lost, my friends! He'll tell our enemies in the Argives' Pelasgian home. about those predators with swords in there— CHORUS LEADER and do so right away. What is it you want to say, my lady? SECOND SEMI-CHORUS You still retain this title in the city [1250] Calm your fears, my dear. 1550 where the sons of Danaus live. 1530 It's not what you think—the path is empty. ELECTRA

28 ELECTRA ELECTRA What's going on? Is your side still clear for me? Slaughter her, finish her off! Give me a report if it's all right, Destroy her! Let your two swords if there's no one there by the front courtyard. slash her with their double blades, the one who left her father, 1580 FIRST SEMI-CHORUS left her husband, and butchered It's fine here. Just keep watching on your side. so many Greeks, killed by spears None of Danaus' sons is moving toward us. beside the river bank, where tears SECOND SEMI-CHORUS and then more tears were shed, Same thing over here. And there's no noise. [1280] with iron weapons all around the whirling waters of Scamander.* [1310] ELECTRA All right. I'll try listening at the doorway. CHORUS LEADER It's so quiet. You there inside the house, Be quiet! Don't say a thing! I hear the sound why the delay in bloodying your victim? 1560 of someone coming along the pathway, They can't hear. Alas, this looks bad for me! near the house. Has her loveliness made their swords grow blunt? ELECTRA Soon some armed man will be rushing here, You women, dearest friends, coming from the Argives to rescue her [1290] Hermione's coming, while the murder's 1590 and attack the house. Keep better guard. still going on. We must stop shouting. She'll walk This is not a contest in sitting still. headlong into the meshes of our net. You women circle around over there, Our catch will be a fine one, if she's caught. you others over there. Go back to your positions once again. CHORUS Keep your looks serene. Don't let your colour I shift around— reveal what's happened. I'll keep my eyes I'm looking everywhere along the road. looking sad, as if I had no knowledge [1320] of what's been done. [Helen screams from inside the house] [Hermione enters, coming towards the house] HELEN [within] O Pelasgian Argos! I'm being butchered! 1570 ELECTRA Ah my girl, have you come CHORUS [speaking as separate individuals] from placing wreaths on Clytaemnestra's grave —Did you hear that? The men have set their hands and pouring out libations to the dead? 1600 to killing. HERMIONE —That's Helen screaming. That's my guess. Once I obtained her favour, I returned. ELECTRA But a certain fear has come over me— O Zeus, O eternal power of Zeus— when I was still some distance from the house just come and help my friends. [1300] I heard some screaming coming from inside. HELEN [within] ELECTRA Menelaus, I'm dying—you're close by Is that so strange? What's happening to us but you won't help me! deserves such cries of sorrow.

29 HERMIONE Watch me— Don't say bad things. my feet are hurrying towards the house. What news have you to speak of? As far as it lies within my power, 1630 may you be safe. ELECTRA The state [Hermione enters the palace] decrees Orestes and myself must die. ELECTRA HERMIONE You friends inside the house— No, no! You're my blood relatives! why not take your swords and seize your prey? ELECTRA HERMIONE [from within the house] It's done. [1330] Oh no! Who are these men I see? We're strapped under necessity's harsh yoke. 1610 ORESTES [from within] HERMIONE Silence! Was that why someone screamed inside the house? You've come to save us, not yourself. ELECTRA ELECTRA [at the doorway, looking in] A suppliant cried out as he fell down Grab her! at Helen's knees. Hold her down! Put your sword across her throat— [1350] and keep quiet, so Menelaus will know HERMIONE he's met some men, not Phrygian cowards, Who was it? Tell me— and has been dealt with as bad men deserve. if you don't, I won't know any details. [Electra enters the house] ELECTRA It was poor Orestes. He was begging CHORUS not to die—and for me, as well. O friends, begin the rhythmic beat, the noise and shouts, before the house, 1640 HERMIONE so that this murder, once complete, The house may not inspire a dreadful fear has a good reason then to cry aloud. among the Argives and they run here ELECTRA to help the royal house, not before What other better reason could there be I see for certain Helen's dead for someone to scream about? But come now, and lying in blood there in the house join your relatives in their entreaties, 1620 or hear the news from her attendant. prostrating yourself before your mother, I know a part of what's gone on, now she enjoys such great prosperity, but there are things I do not know. [1360] so Menelaus will not see us die. Justice from the gods has rightly come 1650 You who were nursed in my own mother's arms, [1340] with retribution now to Helen— have pity on us and assist us now because she filled all Greece with tears in our distress. Enter the struggle here. thanks to that accursed destroyer, I'll lead you in myself, for you alone Paris from Ida, who led Greeks to Troy. are our last hope of rescue. CHORUS LEADER HERMIONE The bolts on the palace doors are creaking.

30 Be quiet. One of the Phrygians PHRYGIAN is coming out. We'll find out from him O Linus, Linus—as barbarians say how things are going inside. in their Asian tongue, once death begins, whenever royal blood spills on the earth 1690 [A Phrygian enters, quite terrified. He chants or sings his first from iron swords of Hades. They came there, [1400] speeches]* inside the house—I'm giving you each detail— PHRYGIAN twin lions of Greece, one who was called I've fled death from an Argive sword the commander's son, the other one by scrambling in my Asian slip- the son of Stophius, with a wicked mind, pers 1660 [1370] just like Odysseus, a silent traitor, over bedroom cedar ceiling beams but faithful to his friends, bold in a fight, and the Doric carvings on the frieze clever in war, a deadly serpent. Damn him Ruined! Gone! O earth, earth, for his quiet deviousness, the scoundrel! in my barbarian flight! Alas for me! They came in, up to where she was sitting, 1700 You strange ladies, how can I flee— the woman archer Paris married, faces [1410] by flying up through the shining sky wet with tears, and humbly crouched down there, or out to sea, which bull-headed Ocean, one on either side, keeping her hemmed in. as he rolls in circles round the earth, They threw their suppliant arms around her knees— holds in his arms' embrace? both laid hands on Helen. Then on the run her Phrygian servants came rushing up, CHORUS LEADER each calling to the others in their fear What's going on, that it might be a trick. To some of them [1420] you slave of Helen, creature from Ida? 1670 [1380] it looked all right, but it seemed to others PHRYGIAN that the snake who murdered his own mother 1710 Ilion, O Ilion! O woe is me was entangling the child of Tyndareus city of Phrygia, Ida' sacred hill in a devious plot to snare her. with its rich earth, how I lament CHORUS LEADER with my barbarian cries your ruin, Where were you? funereal melodies and dirges, Had you run off in terror long before that? because the vision of loveliness born from a swan-feathered bird, PHRYGIAN Leda's lion cub, that hellish Helen, It so chanced that I, as a Phrygian, that evil Helen, avenging fury was following Phrygian fashions for Apollo's polished citadel. 1680 and with a circular feathered fan Alas! Alas, for these laments, [1390] was wafting breezes, breezes by the curls these dirges for Dardania, of Helen, on Helen's cheeks—a habit for the horsemanship of Ganymede we barbarians have. She was twisting yarn [1430] Zeus' sexual partner in his bed.* wrapping her fingers round the spindle. 1720 The thread was falling down onto the floor. CHORUS LEADER With those Phrygian spoils she wished to make Tell us what's happening inside the house, some purple clothes, a gift for Clytaemnestra, clearly and in detail. Your words so far to adorn her tomb. Orestes then spoke up are difficult for me to understand. and called out to the Spartan girl, "Child of Zeus, 31 leave your chair and stand up over here, [1440] battered the doors and door posts in the rooms by the ancient hearth of Pelops, our ancestor, where we'd been held and ran from every spot so you can hear the words I have to say." to her assistance. One man carried stones, He led her, yes led her, and she followed— one had spears, and one held a drawn sword. she had no idea what he was planning. 1730 But Pylades came at us without fear, His partner, that evil man from Phocis, just like Trojan Hector or like Ajax, [1480] moved off, going about some other business. with his triple plumes, whom I saw once— "You Phrygian cowards, leave—go somewhere else!" I saw him at Priam's gate. So we met Then he locked them up in different places at sword point. And then the Phrygians showed all through the house—some in the stables, in their full glory how for warlike spirit 1770 some in the porticoes—some here, some there, [1450] they were born inferior in fighting strength leaving them in various locations compared to Greeks. One man ran away, some distance from their mistress. one man was killed, another wounded, another pleaded to protect his life. CHORUS LEADER We ran off, into the shadows, while men Then what happened? were falling dead. Some would soon collapse, PHRYGIAN and some were killed already. At that point, Mother of Ida! O sacred mother, poor Hermione came in the palace, [1490] holy one! O the murderous suffering, 1740 just as her mother, the unlucky one the lawless evil I saw there, I witnessed who'd given birth to her, had fallen down, 1780 in the royal palace. Their hands pulled swords sprawling on the ground about to die. out from the darkness of their purple robes, The two men, like followers of Bacchus rolling their eyes back and forth, here and there, chasing a mountain cub without a thyrsus, to check that no one else was there. They stood, ran up and grabbed her.* Then they turned again like mountain boars, facing the woman there, [1460] to slaughter Zeus' daughter. But Helen and said, "You'll die. You'll die. Your evil mate had vanished from the room—right through the house— is the one who's killing you—he betrayed O Zeus, and earth, and light, and darkness— his brother's family to die in Argos." either by magic spells or wizard's skill She screamed, she howled, "Alas for me!" 1750 or god's deceit! What happened after that and beat her white forearm against her breast I've no idea. Just like a fugitive, 1790 and struck her fist against her wretched head. my legs crept from the house. So Menelaus, [1500] Then she ran off—on golden-sandaled feet after going through such painful, painful toil, she rushed off, she fled. But then Orestes, got his wife Helen out of Troy in vain. jumping ahead in his Mycenaean boots, [1470] [Orestes enters from the house] shoved his fingers in her hair, bent her neck on his left shoulder, and was quite prepared CHORUS LEADER to drive his black sword right into her throat. Look how one strange sight succeeds another! I see Orestes, sword in hand, coming here, CHORUS LEADER before the palace—his pace is jumpy. Where were you Phrygian household servants to defend her? ORESTES Where's that man who ran out of the house, PHRYGIAN to escape my sword? We yelled—then with crowbars 1760 32 PHRYGIAN [throwing himself on the ground] That sword of yours, I bow to you, my lord, put it away. When it's so close to me making obeisance, as is the habit it has a dreadful glint of murder. of we barbarians. ORESTES ORESTES Are you afraid you'll turn to stone, as if [1520] We're not in Troy. 1800 you'd seen a Gorgon?* We're in the land of Argos. PHRYGIAN PHRYGIAN No, not to a stone, 1820 But everywhere but to a corpse. I don't know anything life is more welcome to wise men than death. about the Gorgon's head. ORESTES ORESTES Those shouts you made—you weren't calling out [1510] You're just a slave. for Menelaus to bring up help, were you? Do you fear Hades, which will release you from your troubles? PHRYGIAN No, no. I was helping you, the worthier man. PHRYGIAN Every man, slave or not, ORESTES is glad to look upon the light of day. So it was just for Tyndareus' daughter to be put to death? ORESTES Well said. Your shrewd mind is your salvation. PHRYGIAN Go inside the house. It was most just, even if she had three throats to slit. PHRYGIAN You won't kill me? ORESTES Your cowardice makes your tongue pleasing— ORESTES that's not what you think inside. You're free to go. PHRYGIAN PHRYGIAN That's not true. 1810 That's beautiful, what you just said. Was she not the one who wiped out Greece ORESTES and Phrygians, too? But I'm about to reconsider. ORESTES PHRYGIAN Swear you're not just saying this Now your words are not so nice. to humour me—or else I'll kill you. ORESTES PHRYGIAN You fool! 1830 I swear it on my life—an oath I'll keep. Do you think I could stand to stain your neck, ORESTES [holding up his sword] make it bloody? You weren't born a woman Were all the Phrygians at Troy afraid and don't belong with men. I left the house of iron, the way you are? to stop you making such a noise. Argos [1530] is quick to move once it hears the call. PHRYGIAN

33 But still I'm not afraid of matching swords I came because I heard of dreadful acts, with Menelaus. Let him come—the man violent deeds committed by two lions. 1870 who's so proud of that golden hair of his I don't call them men. I was told my wife reaching to his shoulders. If he gathers did not die but has gone and disappeared, Argives up and leads them to the palace, 1840 an idle rumour which some fool deluded seeking to avenge the death of Helen, by his fear reported to me. It's a trick and will not rescue me and my sister made up by that man who killed his mother. [1560] and Pylades, who worked with me in this, Ridiculous! Someone open up the house. he'll see two dead, his daughter and his wife. I'm telling my escort to break in the doors, so I may rescue my own child at least [Orestes enters the palace. The Phrygian leaves] from the hands of those bloodstained murderers, CHORUS [different parts speak different sections] and take back my poor miserable wife. 1880 Alas, alas, how things fall out! Those who killed my consort must die with her— Another struggle—once more the house my own hands will kill them. is plunged into another fearful round [As the escort moves towards the doors of the palace, Orestes appears on the afflicting the family of Atreus! roof with Pylades. Orestes is holding Hermione with a sword at her throat, and What do we do? Tell the news in town? Pylades is holding burning torches] Or stay quiet? That's the safer course, my friends. 1850 [1540] ORESTES [from the roof] Look there, in front of the palace. You down there! Look! That smoke rushing up to heaven Keep your hands off those door bolts. I mean you, is telling its own public story. Menelaus, you who exalt yourself with impudence. I'll break this parapet— They're lighting torches—they're going to fire the wall was made by masons long ago— [1570] the house of Tantalus! They won't stop killing! and smash your head in with a coping stone. God determines how things end for mortal men, The bolts are fastened down with metal rods. whatever end he wishes. They'll check your eagerness to bring help fast Those demons of revenge have mighty power. and stop you gaining access to the house. 1890 The house has fallen—fallen through blood, MENELAUS thanks to Myrtilus tumbling from his chariot.* 1860 Hold on. What's going on? I see torches blazing, CHORUS LEADER men cornered up there on the palace roof, But look! I see Menelaus coming— a sword ready to cut my daughter's throat. he's near the house and moving quickly. ORESTES He must have heard what's happening here. [1550] You want to question me or hear me talk? You descendants of Atreus in there, MENELAUS hurry now to close and bolt the doors. Neither. But it seems I'll have to hear you out. A man who's had success is dangerous for those whose situation is not good— ORESTES that means men like you, Orestes. I'm going to kill you daughter—if you want to know. [Menelaus enters with an armed escort] MENELAUS After killing Helen, you're going to pile MENELAUS

34 one murder on another? ORESTES His silence speaks for him. It's quite enough ORESTES if I say he is. I wish I'd done it, instead of having the gods trick me. [1580] MENELAUS Well, you'll regret it, MENELAUS unless you sprout wings and fly away. You deny you killed her just to mock me? 1900 ORESTES ORESTES We're not going to run. We'll burn the palace. Yes. It hurts to say I didn't do it. If only I had . . . MENELAUS What? You're intending to destroy this house, 1920 MENELAUS your own ancestral home? If only you'd done what? You're trying to frighten me. ORESTES So you won't have it. ORESTES And in the flames I'll sacrifice this girl. . . . thrown the woman who pollutes all Greece down into hell. MENELAUS Kill her, then. After the slaughter, you'll pay. MENELAUS I'll punish you. Give me my wife's corpse, so I can bury her. ORESTES ORESTES All right, I will. Ask the gods for her. But your daughter here I will kill. [Orestes moves as if he is going to kill Hermione] MENELAUS MENELAUS The man who killed his mother No, no! compounds that murder with another. Don't do it! ORESTES ORESTES The man who stands up for his father— Silence! You must endure this, the man you betrayed and left to die. 1910 justice for the evils you have done. MENELAUS MENELAUS Isn't your mother's blood now on your hands It is just that you should live? enough for you? ORESTES ORESTES Yes, it is— [1600] No. I'd never get tired [1590] and rule a country. if I had to keep killing evil woman MENELAUS for an eternity. A country? Where? MENELAUS ORESTES And you, Pylades, Right here. In Pelasgian Argos. are you his partner in this murder? MENELAUS

35 Oh yes, ORESTES you'd be so good at handling those vessels 1930 Yes. Now you're not spreading lies we use for ritual washing.* MENELAUS ORESTES That's dreadful. Why not? What should I do? MENELAUS ORESTES And killing animals for sacrifice You should go to the Argives [1610] before a battle. and win them over . . . ORESTES MENELAUS Would you be suitable? What should I tell them? MENELAUS ORESTES Yes, my hands are pure. Tell them not to kill us. Beg the city. ORESTES MENELAUS But your heart is not. Or else you'll kill my child? MENELAUS ORESTES What man would speak to you? That how it stands. ORESTES MENELAUS Any man O poor Helen . . . who loved his father. ORESTES [interrupting] MENELAUS What about my troubles? What about the one MENELAUS who respects his mother? . . . I brought you back from Phrygia to be killed. ORESTES ORESTES A man like that If only she had been! is born lucky. MENELAUS MENELAUS After I went through You're not like that. all that effort. ORESTES ORESTES No, I'm not. Except on my behalf. 1950 Bad women are not something I enjoy. MENELAUS MENELAUS I've had to endure such awful suffering! Take your sword away from my daughter. 1940 ORESTES ORESTES Because you were no help at all back then. You're a born liar. MENELAUS MENELAUS You've caught me out. You'll kill my daughter?

36 ORESTES and cause a slaughter, so they might stop No. You caught yourself the overwhelming crowds of mortal men by being such a coward. destroying the earth. So much for Helen. And as for you, Orestes, you must cross [Orestes calls down to Electra who comes out in front of the palace doors the borders of this country and then live in response to his call] on Parrhasian soil for one entire year.* ORESTES Because you'll be an exile there, that land Electra, will be called the country of Orestes 1990 set fire to the house from underneath. by people in Azania and Arcadia. And you, Pylades, my most trusty friend, From there you'll go to the Athenians' city burn down the parapets of these walls here. [1620] and must stand trial for murdering your mother [1650] against the three Eumenides. The gods MENELAUS who on the Hill of Ares judge your case O land of the Danaans and you who live will act righteously—they'll divide their votes, in horse-rich Argos, take up your weapons and from that it's certain you will triumph. and bring help on the run. To save his life 1960 And then, Orestes, it is foreordained this man here is using force against you, that you will wed Hermione, the girl against the entire city, though he carries whose throat you're threatening with that sword. 2000 the pollution of his mother's murdered blood. The man who thinks he's going to marry her, [Menelaus' escort starts moving en masse toward the palace doors. Neoptolemus, will never wed her. Meanwhile fire breaks out on the roof and inside the palace. Then Apollo He's fated to die by a sword in Delphi, and Helen suddenly appear descending from on high] when he demands satisfaction from me APOLLO for the killing of his father, Achilles.* Menelaus, you must blunt the sharp edge Give your sister in marriage to Pylades, of your temper. I am Phoebus, Leto's son, as you once promised. His future life calling you from close at hand—and that man will be a happy one. As for Argos, [1660] holding a sword and standing by that girl, Menelaus, you must leave Orestes Orestes, so you know the news I bring. to rule the state. Go and govern Sparta. 2010 As for Helen whom you were so eager [1630] Keep that as a dowry from your wife. to destroy in your rage at Menelaus, 1970 The countless troubles she has always brought you failed to kill her, and she's here with me up to this point will end. I'll set things right in the surrounding air. I rescued her between Orestes and the city, for I and she wasn't murdered. Yes, I saved her. was the one who made him kill his mother. I snatched her away from that sword of yours, ORESTES at my father Zeus' bidding, for Helen, O prophetic Loxias—in your oracles a child of Zeus, is to live forever. you prophesy the truth, there's nothing false. She'll sit with Castor and Polydeuces, And yet fear gripped me that I might have heard held up in the upper air, a saviour some demon when I listened to your voice. for sailing men. So choose another wife, But all has ended well. I will obey 2020 [1670] Menelaus, and take her home. The gods 1980 what you have said. See here—I now release used this one's outstanding loveliness Hermione from death, and I agree to bring Greeks and Phrygians together [1640] to take her as my wife, just as soon as

37 her father gives her to me. cannot reach (Odysseus tells us of seeing the shade of Tantalus in Book 11 of the Odyssey). His offense varies, depending on the story. In some accounts, he MENELAUS stole food from the gods and revealed their secrets to human beings. In others, All hail, Helen, he cut up his son Pelops and served him up as food for the gods. [Back to Text] daughter of Zeus. I wish you happiness in the gods' sacred home. Orestes, * . . . his brother, Thyestes: The Fates set a man's destiny at birth by spinning yarn following what Phoebus said, I here pledge and cutting it. Traditionally there were three female fates. [Back to Text] my daughter to you. You're a noble man. * . . . all men's eyes: Phoebus is the name of the god Apollo, whose oracle Orestes May you prosper in a noble marriage, consulted before returning to murder his mother and Aegisthus in revenge for his and may I as well, who give her to you. 2030 father's death. [Back to Text] APOLLO * . . . terrible ordeals: The Eumenides (literally the "Kindly Ones") are the Furies, Then each of you set out to the place goddesses of blood revenge within the family, who are tormenting Orestes be- I have arranged, and end your quarreling. cause he killed his mother. Electra does not call them by their official name but MENELAUS uses a common euphemism, presumably because she doesn't wish to risk offend- I must obey. ing them. [Back to Text] ORESTES * . . . hair and libations: Placing a lock of one's hair on a burial mound and pouring So must I. I'll make peace [1680] libations beside it are traditional marks of respect for the dead. [Back to Text] with you, Menelaus, in this matter, * . . . in Mycenae: The names Argos and Mycenae are often used interchangeably and, Loxias, with what your oracle has said. for the same city, although in some accounts they are two different communi- APOLLO ties. [Back to text] Go on your way now, and honour Peace, * . . . of my mother: Loxias is a common name for Apollo, whose shrine Orestes the fairest of the gods. I'll bring Helen consulted before killing Clytaemnestra. Themis, the goddess of righteousness, to the halls of Zeus, once I've moved across was the original god of the oracle. [Back to Text] the star-bright sky. There she will be seated by Hera and Hebe, wife of Hercules, 2040 * . . . from Erebus: Erebus is the deepest and darkest region of Hades, the under- and men will for ever pay her honour world. [Back to Text] as a goddess, making their libations. *. . . navel of the earth: The navel, or central point, of the earth was, according to With those two Zeus-born sons of Tyndareus, tradition, located in Apollo's shrine in Delphi. [Back to Text] she'll be a guardian for sailors out at sea. [1690] *. . . from Tantalus: Tantalus is the founder of the royal family of Agamemnon, [Apollo and Helen leave. Orestes, Hermione and Pylades move Menelaus, Orestes, and Electra. He was a son of Zeus and a divine nymph. down into the house. Menelaus and his escort depart] [Back to Text] CHORUS *. . . Malea: Menelaus' return from Troy (as he tells us in the Odyssey) was long de- O great and holy Victory, layed. He was blown off course to Egypt, where he stayed for a while. Malea is may you take possession of my life, the southernmost tip of the Peloponnese. [Back to Text] and never cease to crown me with your garlands. *. . . suppliant branch: In a formal supplication the petitioner carries an olive

branch. Orestes doesn't have one available. [Back to Text] Notes to Orestes *. . . something horrific: West makes the useful observation (p. 210) that the Greeks * . . . his tongue: Tantalus, a son of Zeus, offended the gods, who punished him by did not yet have a clear sense of a good or bad conscience. This line suggests placing him in Hades where he is constantly tempted by food and drink which he something like a sense of guilt arising out of one's awareness of the moral quali-

38 ties of an act. As West observes, Menelaus in his response seems confused by the * . . . shave it close: The Cyclopian land is a reference to the city of Mycenae whose idea. [Back to Text] walls were so big that legend had it they had been built by the Cyclopes. Shaving *. . . are his friends: I have adopted West's suggestion that this line refers to the god the head is often an important element in a mourning ritual. [Back to Text] (Apollo) rather than to Orestes himself: "I am not wise, but by nature I am true to * . . . along the shore: These lines refer to the origin of the troubles in the House of my friends (see West 212). [Back to Text] Atreus. Pelops wanted Hippodamnia as his bride. Her father, Oenomaus, de- . . . of Palamedes: Oeax is the brother of Palamedes, an Achaean warrior at manded a chariot race to determine the outcome: if Pelops won he could wed the Troy. When Odysseus pretended to be mad so that he would not have to go on daughter, and if Pelops was not successful he would die. Pelops bribed Myrtilus the expedition to Troy, Palamedes tricked him into revealing his sanity. Later, in to sabotage the king's chariot and, as a result, won the race. Then he killed his co- Troy, Odysseus forced a Phrygian (Trojan) prisoner to write a treasonous letter conspirator, Myrtilus, by throwing him into the sea. Myrtilus cursed Pelops' fami- apparently from Palamedes. Agamemnon found the letter and put Palamedes to ly as he was drowning. Myrtilus was a son of the god Hermes, son of Zeus and death. [Back to Text] the nymph Maia (as is mentioned a couple of lines further on), and the god made * . . . twins from Zeus: Tyndareus and Leda had four children at the same time: Hel- sure the curse took effect by introducing a golden lamb into the flocks belonging en, Clytaemnestra, Castor, and Pollux (also called Polydeuces). However, Tyndar- to the sons of Pelops, thus inciting the brothers Atreus and Thyestes to quar- eus was the biological father of only two of them, Castor and Clytaemnes- rel. [Back to Text] tra. Helen and Pollux were conceived by Zeus (in the form of a swan) and Le- * . . . the Pleiades: The suggestion here seems to be that before this change, the sun da. In some accounts (as here) both Castor and Pollux are children of did not move from east to west. I have adopted West's useful emendation of the Zeus. [Back to Text] text to read "white horses" rather than "single horse." The Pleiades is a constella- * . . . of your wife: The immediate cause of the Trojan War was Paris' abduction of tion consisting of seven stars. [Back to Text]y Helen, Menelaus' wife, from Sparta (Helen went willingly enough). Agamemnon, the senior of the two brothers, took command of the Greek army which assem- * . . . deceitful marriage: Aerope was the wife of Atreus and the mother of Agamem- bled at Aulis in response to a promise all the kings had made to Tyndareus, that non and Menelaus. In some versions of the story, she had an adulterous affair they would help Helen's husband, should he ever require their assistance. The with Thyestes and was executed. [Back to Text] goddess Artemis prevented the Greek fleet from sailing until Agamemnon sacri- * . . . Scamander: The Scamander is a river near Troy, right in the middle of the ficed his daughter Iphigeneia, an action which Agamemnon carried out. [Back to areas where the battles between Greeks and Trojans took place. [Back to Text] Text] *There is some dispute about how the Phrygian enters--does he come through * . . . double line of Atreus: The "double line" is the families of Agamemnon and the doors (as the Chorus Leader's line about the bolts suggests) or does he come Menelaus, sons of Atreus. The "golden ram" mentioned refers to an animal in down from the roof (as his opening lines suggest). West, who opts for an entry Atreus' flocks, on the basis of which he claimed the throne over the objections of down from the roof, has a useful note on the point (p. 275-6). [Back to Text] his brother Thyestes. The slaughter at the banquet is another reference to the dinner in which Atreus served up to his brother Thyestes the latter's sons as the * . . . in his bed: These lines are such a strained evocation of different myths that main course. [Back to Text] it's hard not to see them as either satirical or intentionally comical. The reference to the swan is a reminder of Helen's conception, when Zeus in the form of a * . . . on this very day: The word Pelasgian is frequently used to describe the Ar- swan had sex with Leda, wife of Tyndareus. Apollo's polished citadel is a refer- gives. The word hearkens back to the original inhabitants of the area. [Back to ence to the high tower of Troy. And Ganymede, a prince of Troy, was so beauti- Text] ful that he was taken up to Olympus as a young boy to be Zeus' cup bearer and * . . . by Aegyptus: The fifty daughters of Danaus married the fifty sons of Aegyp- sexual playmate. It's not clear what the mention of his "horsemanship" indicates, tus and killed their husbands (all but one) on the wedding night. In some ac- unless it's a sexual pun. Dardania is a reference to Troy, the land of Dardanus counts Aegyptus prosecuted Danaus for the mass murder. [Back to Text] (the founder of the city). [Back to Text] * . . . those Phrygians: Talthybius is a character in the Iliad, a herald in the Achaean * . . . grabbed her: The followers of Bacchus are the ecstatic worshippers who roam army who serves Agamemnon. Phrygians is a term commonly used to designate the mountains, often capturing wild animals and tearing them apart. The thyrsus the Trojans or barbarian Asiatics. [Back to Text] is a plant stem, often with magical properties, which they carry as part of the ritual

39 frenzy. [Back to Text] * . . . seen a Gorgon: The Gorgons were three sisters whose looks could turn people into stone. One of them (Medusa) who was mortal was killed by Perseus. [Back to Text] * . . . from his chariot: As noted before, Myrtilus conspired with Pelops to trick king Oenomaus in a chariot race, so that Pelops could win Hippodameia, the king's daughter. Myrtilus, the king's charioteer, sabotaged the royal chariot. Pelops then killed Myrtilus by throwing him out of his chariot into the sea. This event launch- es the disasters which befall the House of Atreus (Atreus is one of Pelops' sons). [Back to Text] * . . . ritual washing: One of the duties of a king was to lead important religious cer- emonies. These could only be conducted by someone free of the pollution from any crime he had committed. [Back to Text] * . . . one entire year: Parrhasia is a region in Arcadia, an area in the central Pelopon- nese. [Back to Text] * . . . his father, Achilles: Achilles was killed at Troy. His son Neoptolemus came to Troy, joined the fighting, and killed Priam, king of Troy. He was later killed by a priest at Delphi, Apollo's shrine. There are other stories, however, which have Neoptolemus marrying Hermione. [Back to Text]

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