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Seven Against Thebes (223-264)

urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0085.tlg004.perseus-eng2:223-264
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When you invoke the gods, do not be ill-advised. For Obedience is
the mother of Success, wife of Salvation—as the saying goes.
226
Chorus
So she is, but the power of god is supreme, and often in bad times it raises the helpless man out of harsh misery even when stormclouds are lowering over his eyes.
Eteocles
It is the man’s duty to offer victims and sacrifices to the gods when they test their enemy; your duty is to be silent and to remain inside the house.
233
Chorus
By the will of the gods we inhabit an unconquered city, and the rampart withstands the enemy throng.
What indignation makes you resent this?
Eteocles
I do not begrudge your honor of the divine race; but lest you make the citizens cowardly, be calm and do not be overly fearful.
239
Chorus
When I heard the strange and jumbled clashes,
I came in trembling fear to this citadel, our seat of worship.
Eteocles
If, then, you hear that men are dying or wounded, do not seize on the news with loud wailing. For this is the food of Ares, human blood.
245
Chorus
Oh, but I hear horses snorting!
Eteocles
Hear them, then, but not too clearly.
Chorus
The city groans from deep in the earth, as though we are surrounded.
Eteocles
Surely it is enough that I am making plans for this?
Chorus
I am terrified—the crashing at the gates is increasing.
Eteocles
Won’t you be silent, and speak none of this throughout the city?
Chorus
Divine company, do not betray our fortifications!
Eteocles
Damn you! Will you not endure these events in silence?
Chorus
Gods of our city! Do not let my fate be slavery!
Eteocles
You would enslave both me and all the city.
Chorus
Almighty Zeus, turn your missile against the enemy!
Eteocles
O Zeus, what a breed you have made for us in women!
Chorus
A breed steeped in misery, just like men whose city is captured.
Eteocles
Why are your words ill-omened, when you still grasp the gods’ statues?
Chorus
In my weakness fear controls my tongue.
Eteocles
If only you would grant my plea for a small service.
Chorus
Please state it as quickly as possible, and I will quickly know what to do.
Eteocles
Be silent, wretched woman; do not terrify your own men.
Chorus
I am silent. I will suffer what is destined together with the others.
Eteocles
I welcome this sentiment of yours over what you said before.
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the 1 w 16
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