POEMS OF GREECE
II. THE DEATH OF AGAMEMNON
FROM AISCHYLOS
1
[Aischylos, Agamemnon, 1266–1318.[1]]
Chorus—Kassandra—Agamemnon.
CHORUS.
O wretched woman indeed, and O most wise,
Much hast thou said; but if thou knowest well
Thy doom, why, like a heifer, by the Gods
Led to the altar, tread so brave of soul?
KASSANDRA.
There's no escape, O friends, the time is full.
CHORUS.
Nathless, the last to enter gains in time.
KASSANDRA.
The day has come; little I make by flight.
CHORUS.
Thou art bold indeed, and of a daring spirit!
KASSANDRA.
Such sayings from the happy none hath heard.
CHORUS.
Grandly to die is still a grace to mortals.
KASSANDRA.
Alas, my sire,—thee and thy noble brood!
(She starts back from the entrance.)
- ↑ Text of Paley.
234
