Hippolytus (1060-1082)

(aside). Great gods! why do I not unlock my lips, seeing that I am ruined by you, the objects of my reverence? No, I will not; I should nowise persuade those whom I ought to, and in vain should break the oath I swore.

Fie upon thee! that solemn air of thine is more than I can bear.

Begone from thy native land forthwith!

Whither shall I turn? Ah me! whose friendly house will take me in, an exile on so grave a charge?

Seek one who loves to entertain as guests and partners in his crimes corrupters of men’s wives.

Ah me! this wounds my heart and brings me nigh to tears to think that I should appear so vile, and thou believe me so.

Thy tears and forethought had been more in season when thou didst presume to outrage thy father’s wife.

O house, I would thou couldst speak for me and witness if I am so vile!

Dost fly to speechless witnesses? This deed, though it speaketh not, proves thy guilt clearly.

Alas! Would I could stand and face myself, so should I weep to see the sorrows I endure.

Ay, ’tis thy character to honour thyself far more than reverence thy parents, as thou shouldst.

Unhappy mother! son of sorrow! Heaven keep all friends of mine from bastard birth!