or avoid unholy deeds, but seeks to lay profaning hands on sanctities. Where such things occur, what mortal shall boast any more that he can ward off the arrow of the gods from his life?No. For if such deeds are held in honor, why should we join in the sacred dance?

ChorusNo longer will I go reverently to the earth’s central and inviolate shrine, no more to Abae’s temple or to Olympia,if these oracles do not fit the outcome, so that all mortals shall point at them with their fingers.No, King—if this you are rightly called—Zeus all ruling, may it not escape you and your deathless power! The old prophecies concerning Laius are fading; already men give them no value, and nowhere is Apollo glorified with honors;the worship of the gods is perishing.

IocastaPrinces of the land, I am planning to visit the shrines of the gods, with this wreathed branch and these gifts of incense in my hands. For Oedipus excites his soul excessively with all sorts of grief,as he does not judge the new things from the old, like a man of sense, but is under the control of the speaker, if he speaks of frightful things. Since, then, I can do no good by counsel, to you, Lycean Apollo—for you are nearest—I have come as a suppliant with these symbols of prayer, that you may find us some escape from uncleanliness. For now we are all afraid, like those who see fear in the helmsman of their ship.Enter a messenger.MessengerCan you tell me, strangers, wherethe house of King Oedipus is? Or better still, tell me where he himself is, if you know.ChorusThis is his dwelling, and he himself, stranger, is within. This lady here is the mother of his children.MessengerThen may she be ever happy in a happy home,since she is his blessed queen.IocastaHappiness to you also, stranger! Your fair greeting deserves this. But say what you have come to seek or to tell.MessengerGood tidings, lady, for your house and your husband.IocastaWhat are they? From whom have you come?MessengerFrom Corinth, and at the message I will give now you will doubtless rejoice, though you may perhaps grieve too.IocastaWhat is it? Why has it this double potency?MessengerThe people will make him king of theIsthmian land, as it was said there.IocastaHow then? Is the aged Polybus no longer in power?MessengerNo. For death holds him in the tomb.IocastaWhat do you mean? Is Polybus dead, old man?