The Text

Children, 1 offspring newly bred of old

Kadmos, to me sitting thus with withies of wool-

Wrapped olive, suppliant-wreathed, tell the meaning. 3

Full of incense is the city, full of hymns

To Paian Apollo, 5 full of groans about which I,

Judging best not to hear from messengers,

My children, others, thus am come myself, 7

“all-famous Oidipous” 8.1 as I am called. 8.2

But tell me, old man, for your age suits you to speak for these

Here present; in what vein you hunker down—

Fear or desire? Know now that willingly

I’ll venture all. I’d have to be unfeeling not

To look with pity down 13.1 upon this pious scene. 13.2

Well, Oidipous, you who wield power over my land,

You can see us, our ages, we who sit before

Your altars, 16 some of us not yet having strength

To fly a great distance, others age-freighted priests

(I am myself a devotee of Zeus), and yet again those

Select in manhood’s vigor. 19 The rest of the nation, wreathed,

In the markets sits before Pallas’ twin temples

And at Apollo Ismenios’ prophesying ash. 21

Because as you yourself quite clearly see, 22 the town

Already tosses overmuch and can no longer keep

Its head above the crimson swell upon the deep.

It wastes away in the fruited buds of its soil.

It wastes away in herds at pasture 26 and in the women’s

Birthing toils. 27 In midst of which the fire bearing god,

Most hated plague, falling heavily, bears hard upon

The town—Kadmean houses empty under its assault

While bleak Hades in shouts and groans grows rich. 30

It’s not because you’re equal to the gods 31 that I

Nor children 32.1 here in supplication sit before your hearth, 32.2

But judging you to be the best of men

In life’s events and dealings with supernal powers. 34

When just arrived, you freed Kadmos’ citadel

From tribute 36 we were forced to pay a most exacting singer,

And this not knowing even one more thing from us

Nor having been by us instructed, but with assistance from a god 38

You’re said—and thought—for us to have set life back upright. 39

Now, Oidipous, to all the greatest power,

We supplicate you here, polluted all,

To find us some defense, whether from some god 42

A prophetic word you heard, 43.1 or from some man you might

Have known, 43.2 because to those who have experience I see

That even symptoms 44 are most vivid in deliberations. 45

Go, then, best of mortals—set upright the town!

Go, give the matter special care! As now this country calls

You “savior” owing to your previous zeal,

Let us not recall your rule as that time when

First having stood erect we afterwards fell down.

No—shore this city up against collapse. 51

As then you brought to that auspicious bird

Its fate 52 and so helped us; now equal 53 that!

For if you are to rule this land, as in fact you do

Hold present power—better rule a place that’s people-filled than void, 55

for nought’s the ship or tower 56

Bereft of men to live within.

Pitiable children, known—not unknown—to me

What you desire. 59 Well I know

That all are ill, and being ill, there is not

One of you as ill as I.

For your pain falls on each to bear alone

Right just for him 63 and no one else, while my

Soul groans the same for city, self, and each of you. 64

From sleep you did not rouse me. Know

That in the rovings of my mind, many tears

Having wept,I traveled many roads,67 and know: the single remedy

Discovered by my search I carried out. Kreon,

And know: the single remedy discovered

Menoikeus’ son, my brother-in-law,

To Phoibos’ Pythian home I sent 71 to learn

By doing what, saying what, I might save this town. 72

Indeed, already counting out the time in days

I worry what is keeping him, for he’s been gone

Beyond what’s likely, more than time enough. 75 When he

Does get here, though, if I were not to do all things,

As many as the god makes clear, I’d be ignominious. 77

How fittingly 78 you spoke! For look—these men

Just now are giving me a sign that Kreon does approach. 79

Lord god Apollo! 80 Would that he walk on attended by

Salvation fortunate as bright does gleam his eye! 81

Well that’s how it does appear—sweet! Why otherwise

Would he proceed, his head so richly wreathed in laurel?

Soon we shall know, for he is close enough to hear.

Lord! In-law! 85 Menoikeus’ son!

What answer do you bear us from the god? 86

A good one! For I declare that even what is going wrong,

If in the end it happens to run straight, could prove to turn out well. 88

What sort of counsel is it? I am neither confident

Nor for that matter fearful 90 in anticipation of your present speech.

If it be your wish to hear with people gathered ‘round

I am prepared to speak; if not, to go inside.

Speak out to all; For them I bear

The grief 94.1 more than for my own soul. 94.2

I would relate the sorts of things that from the god I heard. 95

He orders us, Phoibos, most manifestly, lord,

Contamination of the land, as in this soil ‘twas bred—

To drive away; not nurture what cannot be cured. 98

With what sort of cleansing act? 99.1 What kind is the circumstance? 99.2

We’re told to banish or loose murder back

On murder as this blood engulfs the city like a winter storm. 101

Of what sort of man 102.1 does he declare 102.2 this fate? 102.3

Once upon a time,103.1 my Lord, Laios ruled 103.2

Our land, until you set the city back to rights. 104.1 104.2

I understand from what I hear, for never did I behold him 105.1 yet. 105.2

This man having died, clearly he sets forth:

The perps must take a hand in making persons pay.107

And these (Oidepousies) are I’m to suppose where on earth? 108 Where is one to find

This track so poorly marked and made so long ago?109

He said that it was here in these lands. What’s sought is found,

While that to which attention goes unpaid gets clean away. 111

Is it indoors, out in the fields, or yet again

In foreign parts that Laios falls victim to this deed?

On sacred embassy, he said, he went abroad, 114

And having once set out he never did come home.

Did not some messenger nor accomplice on the road—

Observe, whom, having searched out, one could consult? 117

All die but one, and though he gets away, so scared

Is he by all he sees, but one clear fact has he to tell. 119

What’s that? The one fact might by logic lead

To several more if we but a brief reign over hope.121

Bandits, he said, fall upon them, kill him

Not with one strength but with all hands’ assembled might. 123

How would a bandit come to such a brazen deed,

Unless impelled by silver stemming from right here? 125

This seemed in fact to be the case, and yet with Laios dead,

No one came forth to take his part against the perpetrators of the evil deed.

What sort of trouble was afoot 128

That, sovereign power toppled, a full investigation blocked?εἶργε τοῦτʼ ἐξειδέναι; 129

Confronting us with things unseen the ornate-singing Sphinx 130.1

Led us to set aside examination of things before our feet. 130.2

Well then from the very start again I shall shed light. 132

For Phoibos 133 most worthily and worthily you, too,

For the dead man set forth this concern—so that

An ally in justice you’ll find me,εἶργε τοῦτʼ ἐξειδέναι; 135 likewise for

This country seeking vengeance and the god. 136

Not on behalf of distant relatives, 137

But of myself in person I remove this stain.εἶργε τοῦτʼ ἐξειδέναι; 138

Because whoever killed him might well be disposed

To raise on me in vengeance just that kind of hand. 140

When I assist the victim I shall benefit myself. 141

So, as quickly as you can, children, 142 get off

The ground and gather up the branches of your supplication. 143

Let someone summon Kadmos’ folk

Since I shall do it all. 145 For either chancing well

Together with the god we’ll come to light 146.1 or fallen down. 146.2

My children 147 —let us rise. What we

Came for he has openly declared. 148

May Phoibos who sent these prophecies 149

Arrive as savior and ender of disease. 150

Thou Zeus’ sweetly-worded message; Who from heavily-gilded

Pytho passed to splendid

Thebes? Outstretched I lie trembling in fear to my terrified core

—Heighaho Delian Paian!—

Awestruck in your presence. 155 What necessity touching me—

One new or cycling back through seasons past will you fulfill? 156

Tell me, thou child of golden hope, Immortal Report! 157

First calling upon you, Zeus’s daughter, Immortal Athena,

Then earth-shaking sister

Artemis, who takes her seat Upon the circular market throne: “Fairfame,”

And Phoibos “Farshooter,” 163

Ye three-fold death averters—appear before me! 164

If ever in the face of previous destructions as they broke out on the town’s behalf

You put an end 166.1 to bane 166.3 sprung like fire 166.2

beyond its bounds—Come even now! 166.4

Ah! Pains without number I bear.

The whole armed expedition falls ill on me

and no mortal weapon comes to mind

With which one might defend himself. For neither does

any issue sprout from the storied earth

Nor from the beds of their labor pains do the women rise. Rather,

You see before you darting one here, one there,

Like a fine-winged bird,

More powerful than fire

Unstoppable when it leaps towards the evening god’s promontory. 177

Of which the city dies without number: 179

Generations pitiless lie before the death-bringing plain

While within wives and gray-haired mothers

To the altar on the headland come

From here and there pleading for an end to grievous labors, and they wail. 184

flickers aloft carried by a flute-like moaning voice. 185

On their behalf, thou golden daughter of Zeus, 186

Send sweet-faced defense. 187

And Ares raging, 190.1 he who now unbronzed of shields 190.2

Torches me with shouts hemmed in, 191 I beseech

In reverse-rushing course to turn his back on our patria,

Pushed by a following wind, whether to Amphitrite’s great hall

Or else to the Thracian seaswell

Inhospitable to anchorages,

For it happens that what night puts aside

Reappears by day; 198 him—

Oh you who fire-bearing

Lightning bolts’ might wields 200 —

Oh father Zeus!201.1 him lay waste beneath your thunderbolt!201.2

Lord of light, would that the darts invincible

From your gold-twisted bow

Be celebrated for coming to our defense 205

And the fire-bearing torches

Of Artemis, with which she

Darts among the mountains of Lykia, 208

And the gold-mitered god I call upon,

Name-giver of this land,

Wine-faced Bacchus, 211

God-acclaiming Maenad Troupe in tow

Pine torch aflame, 213

Eyes aflash,

To move against that god among the gods from honor set apart. 215

You ask, and what you ask, if willingly you heard

My words you accept 217.1 to row against the plague, 217.2 of your woes.

You’d get protection 218.1 and your head above the waters 218.2

Concerning which, a stranger to what’s been said, a stranger too

To what’s been done 220, I shall declare: no distance could

I track if not possessed of some identifying mark. 221

Now, since I am accounted, albeit recently, a citizen 222

Before all you Kadmos’ folk I do thus declare:

Whosoever among you knows by what man

Laios, Labdakus’ son, was killed

I order him to point it all to me. 226

And if perchance in fear he pulls the charge

Back from himself, he’ll suffer no

Discomfort other than to leave this land unharmed. 229

If, on the other hand, somebody knows the doer of the deed 231

To be of some other country, let him not keep silent, for I

Myself shall see to his reward, 232.1 and gratitude awaits him. 232.2

But if you all keep silent, and fearing

For kin 234.1 spurn this proclamation or do it on your own behalf 234.2

How I shall retaliate you must hear from me.

This man I banish, this one, whoever he may be, 236

From the land whose power and throne I hold—

Neither may anyone receive or speak to him, 238

Nor may he share in public prayer or sacrifices to

The gods, nor share in cleansing rites. Rather, all

Should thrust him from their homes, being our

Contamination, as just now

The Pythian prophet of the god

Revealed to me. Such a man am I—

An ally both to god and victim, I proceed. 245

I call down curses on the perpetrator, whether he

Escaped attention working on his own or joined

By others; 247 poorly may he wear away his sorry life.

I curse him, 249 even if he prove to be one of those

Who share the hearth fire in my home, 250 once I find out

Let him suffer 251 what before these men I just now swore.

Bring all this to pass as I prayed; 252

Do it for me, 253 the god, and for this land

That goes so fruitlessly and godlessly 254 to ruin.

For even if the matter were not now directed by

A god, you would in truth be all unclean to let it drop, 256

Considering that he of men the noblest, and your king to boot,

Has died. One must instead thoroughly investigate!

Now as it happens I hold power that he held prior 259

And marriage bed and kindred wife 260 —we would in fact

Have common children, 261 had his line not met with such

Misfortune, had there been offspring. 262 As it stands,

Fate pounced upon his head. 263 For these reasons,

As if in my own father’s cause, 264

I’ll fight on his behalf 265.1 and stop at nothing 265.2

In seeking to arrest the perpetrator of this crime 266

For Labdakus’ son, 267 he Polydorus’ son,

He son in turn of Kadmos, and he of ancient Agenor. 268

For those who fail to carry out these things 269.1 I pray the gods: 269.2

may neither any crop come from earth

Nor children from their wives. 271 Rather let them be

By their present fate and even worse destroyed. 272

The rest of you, Kadmeians, those whom

These statements please, may justice fight

Upon your side and all the gods be ever with you. 275

By you curse-threatened, Lord, I shall now speak.

Neither did I kill him nor can I produce the man

Who did; 278 it was for the one who ordered this

Investigation—Phoibos—to say who did this deed back then. 279

Fairly said, but to compel the gods

When they’re unwilling lies in no man’s strength. 281

The next best thing—may I suggest as I think right?

Even if it be third best, do not leave it unsaid.

As lord to lord most near the same I know

Teiresias like Phoibos sees; from whom such things

Examining, Lord, one might get clearest understanding. 286

Nor did I neglect to do this thing—

At Kreon’s word I sent a double escort.

It’s a wonder ages back he is not here. 289

Indeed! For other words are mute and aged. 290

But of what nature would they be? For I examine all reports. 291

He died, it was said, at the hands of unknown travelers on the road. 292

So I heard, but nobody sees the man who did the deed. 293

Yet if he’s subject even to the slightest fear, 294

Having heard your words, such curses he shall not abide. 295

He who acts and feels no dread will fear no speech. 296

Yet here is one at hand who could convict him. 297 Here

Men lead in the sacred seer

In whom alone of men the truth’s inborn.

All-seeing Teiresias—things taught and things

unspoken, 301.1 both heavenly and on the plodding earth! 301.2

The town, although you cannot see, you will have sensed

With what sort of sickness couples. 303 Her champ

And savior you alone, Lord, we find to be. 304

For Phoibos, in case you might not happen to have heard

From messengers, replied to us when we did send

To ask, the sole way out of this disease: having found out who

Killed Laios, either kill or from

This state as fugitives expel. 309

Now stinting neither of prophetic speech of birds

Or if you have some other path of prophecy, 311

Yourself and city save, save me, and so draw from

The dead man all pollution; we are in

Your hands. To benefit those

From whom one comes as far as one is able is of labors most sublime. 315

Rubbish! 316 Insight’s awful when it does not achieve

The thinker’s goal. 317 Well aware of which I did expunge

These facts, 318.1 else I should not have come. 318.2

What’s this? Do you come here with such an attitude? 319

Release me 320 to go home, for you and I will both

Most easily get through our lives if you will trust in me. 321

Your words are neither lawful 322.1 nor agreeable 322.2 to the town

That gave you birth, 323.1 if this answer you withhold. 323.2

For I see that your utterance tends not towards

The opportune, and lest I suffer likewise . . . 325

In the gods’ name 326 be reasonable—do not turn away,

For we all fawn like dogs begging for your grace. 327

For you are all uncomprehending. 328 Even if I should

Pass judgment on myself, never shall I expose your ills. 329

What are you saying? Though you know, will you

Not speak? Do you intend thus to betray us and destroy our town? 331

I will pain neither self nor you. 332 Why pursue

These questions? From me you will learn nothing. 333

Not so, dog! For even if you could move a stone to wrath, 335.1

Eventually you’ll speak! 335.2 But will you really show

Yourself to be so obdurate 336.1 and so inconsequential? 336.2

You note my passion but fail to see your own 337

That lives with you—instead you put the blame on me. 338

Who would not grow angry hearing words 339

In speaking which you shame this town

They will come to pass even if I keep a lid on it. 341

Since they will come in any case, is it not necessary for you to tell? 342

I would not go too far. 343 Beyond this, if you will,

Be angered by a passion 344.1 most savage. 344.2

Indeed! I shall drop nothing—I’m that angry—of what

I comprehend. 346 Know that to me it seems you had a part

Conceiving 347.1 and accomplishing 347.2 the deed, not so far

As killing with your hands, 348 though if your eyes had sight

I’d say that that deed too was yours alone. 349

In truth? 350 Then I charge you: hold firmly to

Your proclamation and from this day forth

Speak neither to these men nor me

For being the unholy pollution of this land. 353

So shamefully did you unleash this utterance? 355.1

Exactly where d’you think you’ll go to get away with it? 355.2

I have already done so; I nurture truth, and it prevails. 356

By whom are you instructed? 357.1 For it isn’t by your craft. 357.2

By you! 358 It was you who pried it out of me when I was loath to speak.

What is the nature of your charge? Repeat it so that I may better learn. 359

Did you not comprehend or are you playing games 360 with me?

Not well enough to clearly state. 361 Now say it once again!

I say you are the murderer of the man with whom you seek to meet. 362

You’ll not so smugly doubly to double banes give utterance. 363

What more could I say now to make your anger more? 364

As much as is your wont to prophesy 365.1 you’ll speak in vain. 365.2

It has escaped attention, I say, you with dearest ones

Most shamefully consort yet do not see the trouble you’re now in. 367

But yet you think you’ll always smile to say these words? 368

Well, yes—if truth has any force. 369

Oh, but it does—just not for you! For you this is nought,

Since you’re insensate—ears, mind, and eyes! 371

You are pathetic 372 —casting in my teeth these very charges;

There’s not a soul who will not soon for just this fault you. 373

You’re fostered 374.1 by one long night, 374.2 and consequently you

Will never injure me or anybody else who sees the light. 375

For it is not fate for you at my hand to fall; 376

Apollo will suffice 377.1 –to carry these things out is his concern. 377.2

To Kreon or to you do these “discoveries” belong? 378

Kreon is not your problem; you make trouble for yourself. 379

Oh wealth, oh power, oh skill surpassing skill

In a much-admired life—to what extent

Is envy sheltered 382 in your midst, if, because

Of primacy, this gift unasked the town

Placed in my hands 384 and in which Kreon from

The start was trusted friend, he worms

His way with me and lusts to cast me out 386

by slipping in a conjurer so

Conniving, huxter so deceitful, prophet with an eye

Solely on profit, yet to his skill born blind? 389

For, pray tell, where are you a prophet clear? 390

Why, when the singing dog was here, 391 to these

Townsfolk did you speak no liberating word? 392

Yet her enigma was not for some random passerby

To solve: it wanted prophecy 394 of which

Not being possessed you shone no knowledge forth,

From birds or some one of the gods. 396 But here

Come I, the nothing-knowing “Know-A-Foot,” 397 I stopped her cold

By hitting on a commonplace 398.1 not learned from birds 398.2 —

I whom you endeavor to cast out, thinking thus to stand

Beside Kreon’s throne. With tears it seems to me

Both you and he who thought this whole thing up will drive

Out sacrilege. 402 If you did not seem old, you would learn

The hard way the sorts of things that you intend. 403

To us as we compare it seems that his

Words stem from passion’s heat and yours too, Oidipous.

It’s necessary, though, not to consider these,

But how to best fulfill the god’s oracular response. 407

Even though you wield the power, still the right of fair

Response must be preserved, for even I have power over this.

For I don’t live in any sense a slave to you but rather Loxias. 410

So, I shall not have been enrolled in Kreon’s patronage. 411

I say, since you accuse me of blindness; even though

You have your sight yet still you do not see what sort of mess you’re in,

Nor where you live, nor with whom you make your home. 414

Do you even know of whom you are? 415 Indeed, it has escaped

Your notice that you’re hateful to your own—both down below

And on the surface of the earth above. A monstrous-footed curse

Striking on both sides from mother and from father will

Eventually drive you from this country. 418 Now you see aright,

But later you’ll see darkness. Where will your shout not make port? 420

What sort of Kithairon 421 will not soon resound with it

When you perceive the marriage 422 into which, no mooring

For a home, you sailed, because you met a fair wind? 423

You do not perceive the crowd of other woes

That bring you equal to yourself and to your children! 425

Given which besmear with filth both Kreon’s mouth

And mine, because of mortal men not one shall ever be

Than you more ignominiously ground down. 428

Are these things not intolerable from this man to hear? 429

Not going to destruction? Not rapidly? Not back again

Reversing from these halls with face averted will you not go away? 431

I for one would not have come had you not called. 432

I’d no idea you’d be sounding off inanities 433 like these—

If so I would have taken my sweet time about the journey to my home. 434

We were born, it seems to you, such fools, yet to

The procreators who brought you forth we made good sense. 436

To whom? Stop! Who of mortal men begot me? 437

This day begets and destroys you. 438

How everything you say is over riddled and unclear! 439

But weren’t you born best to sort them out? 440

That’s right—belittle me for things in which you’ll find me great. 441

Precisely this fate, you see, is what destroyed you! 442

Yet if I saved this town 443.1 it’s no concern to me. 443.2

I’m going now. You, boy, lead me!

Let him lead—being here you’re in the way 445

And irksome; hurrying off you’ll cause no further pain. 446

Having said what I came to say, 447 I go—

Not in fear of your looks, 448 for you are not in any place

To injure me. I tell you this: the man for whom you’ve long

Been searching, making threats and publishing abroad

For Laios’ murder—he’s right here. Officially a foreigner

With resident status, eventually he’ll be shown

A native son of Thebes. 453 But in this happenstance he’ll take

No pleasure. Beggar and blind where he once was rich

And sighted, using a cane to tap his way,

He’ll travel to an alien land. 456

He’ll be shown to be living with his children as

Their brother and–self-same man—father, and of the wife

Of whom he was born, both son and spouse, and of

The father both same-sower and murderer. 460 Going in

Think on these things! 461 And if you find it fake,

Why, say already then of prophecy I nothing understood. 462

Who is it that the Delphic rock, to speech inspired, saw had committed acts

Most unspeakable of unspeakables 464.1 with blood-stained hands? 464.2

It is high time that more

Powerful than a storm of horses

He take to his heels.

For replete in armor leap down on him 468

With fire and flashes of lightning

The get of Zeus 470

Fates 472 in tow,

Terrible, implacable.

For just now materializing

From cloudy Parnassos 474 a report flared:

To track the unseen man all over.

Beneath the wild woods

And up into the caves like a bull

Bum on bum foot, 478.1 lacking, 478.2

Repudiating 480 the earth-navel’s

Prophecies 481 whilst this lot,

Living always, flies ‘round and about him. 482

Terribly, yes terribly, the adept reader of bird signs confuses me 483 to the point

Where I neither approve nor object And have no idea what to say. 485

But I take flight in hopes, seeing neither

What’s here before my eyes nor some way off. 486

For what disagreement, whether on the side of Labdakus’ family

or the son of Polybos, was lying 490

I never learned from way back then up ‘til now

On the basis of which touchstone

I would move against Oidipous’s

City-wide report, whilst in

Dealing with deaths unclear I assist the house of Labdakus. 495

Zeus and Apollo, however—both are

sagacious and knowledgeable about matters mortal.

Among men, that a prophet is right more often than I,

There is no infallible way of telling, Though one man might surpass another

Wisdom against wisdom. 501

Never would I for one—not until

I might see the truth of a statement—

Give my assent when people are making accusations. 506

For quite visibly once did a winged maid

Come upon him, and wise was he seen to be 510.1 and to the city

a sweet blessing by that touchstone, 510.2

Wherefore to my mind never will he lose

On a charge of ignominy. 511

Men—Citizens! I hear an awful rumor to this effect;

That Oidipous the ruler against me lays a charge.

Thus am I come; I cannot bear it. For if

In present circumstance he thinks he’s suffered harm

From anything I may have said or done

There’s no desire in me to live a longer life

Bearing this report. 519 No, the damage done me by

That speech is not simple; it reaches to the full extent

If in my town I’m ignominious, 521 ignominious called by you,

And ignominious even by those to whom I’m close. 522

This accusation likely came compelled

By passion rather than by throught from his mind. 524

The word came out that by my thoughts

Persuaded 526 the prophet made a trumped-up charge?

That’s what was said, though for what reason 527 I do not know.

And from clear-sighted eyes and sound mind

Was the charge against me laid? 529

I do not know. What those in power do I do not see. 530

But here he comes in person, just now passing from the hall.

This is you? How dare you come here? Or have

You such a mask of daring that to my halls you’ve come, 534.1

Known killer of this man, 534.2 thief incarnate of my rule? 535

Come, say before the gods: 536 cowardice or some foolishness

Having seen in me, did you contrive to do these things? 537

Or did you really think I wouldn’t know this work

Was yours, 538 crawling forth with a clever stratagem, 539.1

Or when I did find out, that I would not fight back? 539.2

But isn’t it a foolish scheme of yours, to go

With neither wealth nor friends 541 in hunt of power 542

That’s captured with a crowd and coin?

Know what to do? In fair exchange for what’s been said,

Hear me out, then judge yourself on what you’ve understood.

Your talk is fierce but I am bad at learning thus from you, 545

For ill-disposed and grievous I have found you are to me. 546

About this very matter hear first what I’ll say. 547

About this very matter do not tell me how you are not bad. 548

If you believe self-will’s a thing to have

Without good sense, then you’re not thinking straight. 550

If you believe that doing a kinsman ill you’ll

Not pay the price, then you’re not thinking straight.

I agree with you—these statements have been spoken true.

The injury—whatever sort you say you suffered—teach me! 554

Did you or did you not persuade me it was necessary 555

To send someone to fetch the reverend seer? 556

Even now I remain the same in this advice.

For how much time already passed, then, since Laios . . . 558

Has done what sort of deed? For I have no idea. 559.1, 559.2, 559.3

Unseen 560.1 limps 560.2 towards the fatal handiwork? 560.3

Long and ancient epochs would be measured. 561

And at that time this seer practiced the craft? 562

Equally wise and as respected. 563

And did he mention me at all back then? 564

Not in any case while I was standing by. 565

But for the killer did you hold no search?

We made provision—what else? In any case, we did not hear. 567

How is it then the wise one here did not declare these things? 568

Don’t know, for where my thought’s unclear, I like to keep from speech. 569

This much you do know, 570.1 and so you’d say if you were wise. 570.2

What is it? If I know, for sure I won’t refuse.

If he had not allied himself with you, 572 he never would

Have said that mine were Laios’ blights. 573

If he does say so, 574.1 you yourself know the truth. 574.2 But now

I claim the right to learn from you as you just learned from me. 575

Learn this inside out: I the killer will not be convicted. 576

What’s that? You wed my sister, do you not possess her? 577

Denial is not possible, concerning what you ask. 578

And do you rule the same with her the land, holding equally? 579

Whatever she desires is all provided for by me. 580

Is it not the case that I a third am equal to you two? 581

Exactly where you show yourself to be bad kin. 582

No, not if you were to give it thought as do I.

Consider first: do you think someone would prefer

In fear to seize power or sleep soundly and have the same authority?

It is not my nature to want to be the sovereign king,

But rather to act as sovereigns do; this goes for anyone

Who has an independent mind. As things now stand,

I have from you all perquisites of power worry free.

Were I to rule myself I would be forced

To act against my will. How then could tyranny

Be fashioned as to be as sweet to me

As carefree rule and dynasty? 593 I don’t

Yet think I’m such a fool to long for privileges

Beyond the great ones I can have with ease.

At present I take pleasure in all things. At present all

Men greet me with warmth. At present those who need you

Come courting me, for here rests their success. 598

Why then would I grasp at the one by letting go the other?

A mind cannot become bad by thinking well. 600

Of such thought I was neither a lover 601.1 born 601.2

Nor would I ever dare to join another acting thus. 602

For make a test of what I say, first to Pytho go

And check if of the consultation a clear report I brought. 604

This too: if you should catch me working out some plan

Together with the marvel-seer, not with a single vote

Kill me but two—my stone and yours—once you’ve caught me.

The judgment still unclear, 608 do not find me nonetheless to blame.

For it is neither just to consider the bad in vain

A sign of good nor those auspicious bad. 610

To cast a worthy friend away, 611 I say, amounts

To laying aside the life one loves above all else.

In time you’ll know these things infallibly, 613

Since time alone can show a man is just, whilst you

might know a wicked man within the scope of but one day. 615

He spoke well: taking care about a fall, 616

My lord—those quick to think prudently are not infallible. 617

Whenever some quick schemer secretly proceeds,

I must be quick 619.1 to consult again. 619.2

If keeping still I bide my time, his plans will be

Effected; mine will have fallen short. 621

What do you really want? 622.1 Is it in fact to hurl me from this land? 622.2

By no means—that you die! 623.1 I don’t want you to get away. 623.2

So you can demonstrate the nature of ill-will . . . 624

Intending neither to withdraw nor trust do you speak thus? 625

It’s clear to me that you’re not being reasonable. 626.1/I am when it pertains to me.626.2

In fairness you must do the same when it pertains to me. 627.1/But you are base by birth! 627.2

What if you understand nothing? 628.1/Still, one must be ruled. 628.2

Not when one is ruling poorly. 629.1/Oh, City, City! 629.2

I too have a share in the city—not you alone.

Stop it, Lords. Well-timed for you, I see

Approaching from the house Iokaste with whom

To straighten out the strife at hand is a necessity. 633

Why, pain purveyors, did you raise this ill-conceived 634

Faction of the tongue? 635 Aren’t you ashamed, the country ailing so,

To stir up private ills? Are you for one not going into the house? 636

And you too, Kreon, won’t you be going home 637

And not turn non-existent pain 638 into something large?

Blood kin, your husband Oidipous, judges me

To have done awful deeds, having set forth two ignominies—

Expel me from my fatherland or seize and kill me. 641

That’s so! For in the act, wife, badly

I caught him treating my person with ignominious craft. 643

May I never prosper—cursed may I die—

If I have done a bit of what you say! 645

In the name of the gods, Oidipous, trust 646 these words

And show respect above all for this holy oath, 647

Then, too, for me and these men here before you. 648

Comply, sir, willingly and prudently 649 —I beg!

What do you want that I should yield to you? 650

To the man never before childish and now ennobled by his oath—show some respect! 651

Do you know what you require? 652

I do.

Put it in words.

The family member under curse—do not

Because of obscure speeches throw him into disrepute. 656

Know well that if you seek this, you seek

My ruin or expulsion from this state. 658

No, by the divine champion of all gods, 660

Helios! 661 Godless and friendless, may I die 662.1

The most horrible death if this be my intent. 662.2

No, the withering earth 663 eats at my

Ill-fated heart, if to long-ago evils

Will attach these from you two. 665

Fine—let him go, even if it means I must really die

Or in dishonor from this land by force be thrown.

For your (not his!) pained expression

I pity. 672.1 Wherever he may be, he will be hated. 672.2

You’re hate filled 673 —this is clear—in giving way,

Aggressive when your spirit tops the limit. 674

To the judicious eye 675.1 such types do themselves most pain. 675.2

Will you not leave me be—will you go away? 676/I'm off

Because I find you fail to know me, 677.1 though to them I do seem fair. 677.2

Lady—why do you delay escorting him into the hall?

Until I’ve learned what has occurred. 679

An obscure apparition of words arrived680.1and even what’s unlawful joins the feast.681.2

From both of them?

Indeed.

The substance then?

Enough, I say! Enough! To one concerned about the country’s

Future, it seems best to leave it where it lies. 686

Do you not see where you’ve gotten—though a man of

Good judgment—setting my interests aside and dulling my heart? 688

Sir, more than once I said—

And you know that I would show myself to be

Off reason’s course without a path toward

Good sense if I turned my back on you,

Who, when my country was beside itself in struggles, breezed

It back onto its proper course and now could be an able pilot! 696

It back onto its proper course

Before the gods, instruct me too, 698 My Lord,

From what affair you’ve got so much anger. 699

I shall tell you—for you I reverence, Lady, more than these— 700

It’s Kreon: the sorts of things he has in mind for me! 701

Speak, if in making an indictment you clarify this strife’s cause. 702

The killer of Laios he says that I’ve turned out to be.

Did he find out by himself or get it from another? 704

Not so; he sent a prophet in to do his dirty work

And keep his own tongue free of guilt. 706

Now having put yourself at ease regarding what you say, 707

Hear me and learn why as far as you’re concerned 708

No mortal thing has any share 709.1 in prophesying art. 709.2

I shall make visible to you signs 710.1 of these things: shortcuts. 710.2

A prophecy reached Laios once—I will not say

From Phoibos himself but from one of his subordinates 712

That fate would have him die by a child’s hand, 713.1 713.2

One who might issue forth from me and him. 714

And him, to start with, per report at least, strange men,

Highway bandits murder where three wagon tracks converge. 716

As for the child not three days grown, him, the former having bound

Together ankles, 718 flung—by others’

hands 719 —onto the trackless mount.

And so Apollo neither brought about that he become

His father’s killer, 721 nor that Laios undergo

The awful thing he feared: to die at his son’s hands. 722

Such things prophetic speech set forth, so you

Should pay them little heed. 724 For what the god

Has need to track 725.1 he will himself with ease reveal. 725.2

How strangely, listening to you just now, wife,

I felt my mind wander and my spirit stir. 727

Spun ‘round 728 by what anxiety say you this?

I thought I heard you say that Laios

Was slaughtered where three wagon tracks converge.

For this was said and never having yet abated holds. 731

And where precisely is the place of this incident?

Phokis that country is called. A divided road

Leads there from Delphi and from Daulia. 734

And how much time has passed since these events?

Barely before you, having this land’s rule,

Appeared this was reported to the town. 737

Oh, Zeus! What have you planned to do concerning me? 738

What mood’s 739.1come over you, Oidipous? 739.2

Don’t ask me yet. Laios’ build—tell me

How he carried himself; what stage of manhood had he reached? 741

Tall. The hair on his head just beginning to go gray.

In looks not much different than you. 743

Ah me—wretch! It seems that all unknowing I

Have cast myself into the path of awful curses. 745

How so? I tremble to turn my gaze on you, my lord. 746

Terribly I lose heart to think perhaps the prophet has his sight. 747

You’ll show this better, if you’ll speak but one word more. 748

Indeed, I do shrink back; yet whatever you ask, if I know, I’ll say.

Did he travel humbly or with many men as bodyguards,

As would a man preeminent in his power? 751

Five they were all together; among them

A herald. A single transport carried Laios.

Oh! Oh! It has become too clear! Who was it, anyway,

The man who brought you these reports, wife? 755

A member of the house who, once survived, came back alone.

Well then, does he chance to be here in the palace at this time?

No indeed, for after he came back from there and saw

You’d taken power and Laios killed,

He begged touching my hand

To send him to the fields and up to pastures with the flocks,

That he might be as far as possible from this citadel unseen.

And so I sent him off. For he deserved, this man,

Though slave, to get a greater thanks than this. 764

How might he come back to us at top speed? 765

It can be done. 766.1 But why insist on this? 766.2

In connection with myself, lady, I fear that many things

Already said may go too far, 768.1 and so I mean to see him. 768.2

All right, he’ll come. 769 That settled, I would think that I

Also have a right to know the things that give you grief, sir. 770

Of this you shall by no means be deprived, 771 especially now

That I’ve advanced so far in anticipation. 772 With whom could

I better speak than you 773.1 when undergoing such a fate? 773.2

My father Polybos was of Corinth, mother, Merope

Of Dorus’ line. 775 Among the townsmen there

The most important was I deemed, ‘til such a thing

Befell me—worthy of amazement, 777 yet

Not worth my pained concern. 778 Look here;

A man at dinner having drunk his fill of mead blurts out

In his inebriation that I am not my father’s real son.

I, weighted down, the coming day

Could hardly wait. Next day, going close

To mother and to father I was questioning.

Uneasily they laid the blame on him who’d let the story out.

I was content with their response, yet his reproach kept on

Forever chafing me, for it was always cropping up.

All unbeknownst to mother or to father, I make my way

To Pytho 788 where, concerning that for which I’d come,

Phoibos dismissed me without honor. 789 But for wretched me,

The god predicted other awful and disdainful things; 790

How with mother it was necessary to be combined, 791

That I would bring to light of day a race unbearable for men to see 792

And murderer that I would be of father whose seed gave me life. 793

Once I had heard these things and Corinth from

Then on intending by the stars to fix, that land

I fled to where I’d never see the blame

Of baneful prophecies achieve their goal. 797

On foot proceeding, I arrive in these parts where

This ruler, as you say, was slain. 799

And now I shall tell you the truth, my wife.

As on my journey 801 I approach the three-way path

A herald and a man upon a horse-drawn cart

(As you describe) just then come straight towards

Me. Then the driver and the elderly man himself

By force were driving me off the road.

Enraged, I strike the one who’s making me veer off—

The charioteer. And the old man watching me

Pass along the vehicle’s side takes aim upon my head

And with his double-pointed cattle prod catches me.

He didn’t pay the same, though, but swiftly struck

Down by the staff 811.1 out of this hand 811.2 he flips

From the cart and lands flat on his back.

I kill them every one. 813 So if to

This stranger any bit of Laios’ kinship does attach, 814

Who is more wretched than this man? Who could

Become more hated by the gods than he, 816

Whom neither stranger or townsman can

Receive into his house nor anyone address,

But rather must fend from their homes? 819 And this

None other than myself upon myself these curses laying down. 820

In my two hands I do defile the dead man’s bed 821

By means of which he died. So then was I spawned bad? 822

So then am I not utterly unclean? 823.1 If I must flee, 823.2

In flight it is not possible for me to see my folks 824

Nor set foot into my fatherland, 825 or else I must be joined

In wedlock with my mother and kill my father Polybos

Who reared me and conceived me. 827 So then would not

Somebody, judging what’s come down upon this man

If he said it’s from a savage god, would he not speak aright? 829

Let me not! Let me not, oh reverent awe towards the gods, 830

See that day, but go from men

Of such misfortune come to me. 833

Unseen before I see a mark

Us, Lord, these things do take aback. But ‘til you learn

The last detail from one present, have hope. 835.1 835.2

All I have left of my hope is this—

Await the man, the shepherd, him alone. 837

Having revealed himself 838.1 what do you expect from him? 838.2

I’ll explain. If he’s found to say again

The same things that he said before, I’ll have dodged 840.1 the pain. 840.2

What strange word did you hear from me? 841

You said that he declared that brigands—men—

Cut him down. So, if he still gives

That same account, then I did not kill him.

For one cannot be equal to the many. 845

But if he clearly states it was one single-belted man,

This is the deed, then, tipping straight at me. 847

Know that the story thusly was set forth

And this he cannot possibly repudiate,

Because the city heard, not just I, these words. 850

Supposing even that he were to veer 851 somewhat

From testimony he gave before, not even then, sir, will

He show that Laios’ death went straight and true as Loxias foretold: 854.1

That he must die at my son’s hands. 854.2

Yet as you know, the former anyway the poor wretch

Never killed, 856.1 856.2 but himself died first, 856.3

In view of which I’d not because of any prophecy

Henceforth shift my eyes either to the left or to the right. 858

You reason well. 859 But still, do send someone

To fetch the worker; do not let this drop.

I will send for him with all dispatch. But let us go inside,

For I’d do none of those things that are not pleasing to you. 862

May destiny be with me for sustaining

Pious purity in all

Words and deeds, 865 for which laws are set forth

High-footed, heavenly,866

Sky-birthed, 867 of which Olympos

Alone is father. Neither did

Mortal nature engender them, nor does

Forgetfulness lull them to sleep.

Great in these laws is divinity; nor does it grow old. 871

Hubris begets a tyrant, 872 and hubris it is

When pointlessly one is overfilled

With things unseasonable and contributing nothing.

Alighting on the highest peak

It dashes to the brink of compulsion 877

Where even a good foot

Is of no use. The wrestling match that does the city good

I beg the god never to disrupt. 881

Never shall I cease to hold the god my champion. 882

If anyone contemptuously with hands or tongue proceed 883

Of justice unafraid, 885.1 to divinities’ seats doing no reverence—885.2

May an evil fate 886.1 seize him! 886.2

Reward for ill-destined arrogance, 887

If he’ll not profit justly, 888

If he’ll not eschew blasphemy, 890

If he shall touch the untouchable while speaking folly. 891

What man will ever under these conditions still pray

To keep the god’s arrows from his heart? 893

For if such deeds are deemed respectable

Why should I this chorus dance? 896

No longer 897.1 the untouchable will I approach to earth’s navel doing reverence 897.2

Nor to the temple of the Abai 900.1 or the Olympian 900.2

Unless these self-evident matters 901

Apply to all mortal men. 902

But thou, Wielder of Power, 905.1 if you respond to this name, 905.2

Zeus, 906.1 Ruler of All Things, 906.2 let it escape neither

your notice 907.1 nor that of your eternally deathless rule. 907.2

For Laios’ ancient

prophecies 909.1 as they fade 909.2 are singled out, 909.3

Divinity is on the ebb. 910

Lords of the land, a notion came to me to pay

A visit to the temples of the gods, 912 gripping in

My hands these wreaths and gifts of incense. 913

For on high does Oidipous his spirit set exceedingly

In every sort of pain. 915 Nor does he strange new things

Evaluate, as would a sensible man, in terms of old. 916

Instead, he’s captive to whoever speaks 917.1 if he speak to his fears. 917.2

When my suggestions nothing more effect

To you, Lykeian Apollo 919.1 (for you are very close!) 919.2

As suppliant come I with votive offerings, 920

To see if you might provide us some conspicuous

Redemption 921 as we all tremble now to see

Him stricken like a helmsman from the ship. 923

Folks, could you tell me where to find

The palace of the ruler, Oidipous? 925

Best of all, tell where he is, if you know. 926

These are his roofs and he himself within, stranger—

Wife and mother, she here, of his children. 928

Blessed she is and may she remain always

Among the blessed, to be his all-fulfilling spouse. 930

Likewise to you, stranger, as you deserve

Befitting your fair speech. 932 But tell what need

Has brought you here 933.1 and wanting what to signify? 933.2

Good tidings 934 for the household, lady, and for your man.

Of what kind are they and from whom come?

From Korinth. As to the news I am about to give

You might take pleasure—why not? You might grieve just as much. 937

What is it—what double-edged power does it have? 938

As their ruler the people of the Isthmus will

Install him; 940 that’s what was being said there.

What’s this? Is not aged Polybos in power still? 941

Indeed he’s not; death has him in his tomb.

What did you say? Has Oidipous’s father really died? 943

If I don’t tell the truth then I deserve to die. 944

You, girl! Won’t you go quickly as you can

To tell your lord this news? Oh, prophecies divine,

Where are you now! 947 This very man Oidipous long since fled

Trembling lest he kill him. 948 And now the self-same man

Has perished by the hand of fate 949 and not from him!

Iokaste, sweetest darling face, 950

Why did you send for me to come here from the house? 951

Do listen to this man, and see while listening

How far have come the god’s grand prophecies. 953

This man—who is he and why would he have words with me? 954

From Korinth, bringing news to you

That father is no longer, Polybos, but he has died. 956

What say you, stranger? Be yourself the one to signify. 957

If first I must make this message clear,

Know well that he is dead and gone. 959

Was it foul play or onset of disease? 960

A little tilt lays aged bodies down.

Of illness, as it seems, the poor man passed away.

And of the length of time he’d measured out. 963

Foo! Foo! 964 Wife, why on earth would one attend

To either the prophetic hearth of Pytho or the cries

Of birds on high? 966 According to these guides I was supposed

To kill My father, 967 yet he is dead and buried while here I am

Sword untouched. Unless from missing me

He passed away; only thus could it be said he died

Because of me. 970 So, having taken with him prophecies

Still current now Polybos sleeps

At Hades’side 972.1 –they were worthless! 972.2

Isn’t this what I predicted 973.1 long ago? 973.2

You did say so, but I was led astray by fear.

Then do not let a single one into your heart again. 975

How can I not pull back from my mother’s bed? 976

What has he to fear 977 for whom happenstance

Holds sway 978.1 and foresight lacks for clarity? 978.2

It’s best to live at will so far as one may. 979

As for matrimony with your mother—do not fear! 980

Many a man already in his dreams,

has lain together with his mother but if he doesn’t let

Them bother him, he bears his life with greatest ease. 983

Everything you’ve said were well and good if she who bore me

Did not happen still to be alive, but since she is, 985 it’s absolute

Necessity, even if what you say makes perfect sense, to pull back. 986

Despite all that, your father’s tomb’s an enormous boon.987

Enormous, I agree, but fear persists while yet the woman lives.

What kind of woman do you fear?

Merope, old man; with whom Polybos lived.

What about her gives you fright?

A god-sent prophecy, awful, 992 guest.

Can it be told or is it improper for someone else to know? 993

By all means! 994 You see, Loxias told me once

It was necessary that I be joined with my very own mother 995 and

With these my hands draw my father’s blood, 996

Because of which Corinth has long been dwelt

Apart from me. 998.1 I have been lucky; 998.2 nonetheless

The sweetest sight of all’s to see one’s own parents’ eyes. 999

You mean that pulling back from just these fears you’ve been in exile? 1000

Wanting of my father 1001.1 murderer 1001.2 not to be 1001.3 old man.

Of this very fear why on earth, my lord, did I not,

Since I came with good intent, relieve you? 1003

Indeed, for that you would receive appropriate thanks from me.

Indeed, this most of all is why I came—

That in your coming home I might do something good. 1006

But never shall I go back—most surely not to those whose seed produced me! 1007

Son, 1008.1 it’s so beautifully clear you know not what you do! 1008.2

How so, old man? Before the gods, instruct me! 1009

If due to these you shrink from coming home. 1010

Atremble lest in my case Phoibos come out clear. 1011

In fact lest you taint those whose seed begat you? 1012

This very thing, ambassador, 1013.1 this very thing forever panics me. 1013.2

Do you know by rights 1014.1 your trembling is for nought? 1014.2

Why not if I was of these parents 1015.1 born the son? 1015.2

Because Polybos was not among your kin. 1016

What did you say? Did Polybos not father me? 1017

No more than this man right before you—but the same. 1018

And how can he who plants the seed equal nothing? 1019

But neither he nor I begat you.

For what reason, then, did he call me ‘son’? 1021

A gift once, know this, of my hands he got. 1022

And yet he loved so much that which he got from someone else? 1023

For childlessness had thoroughly persuaded him. 1024

And you—is it business or happenstance that you give me him? 1025

Having found you in the wooded vales of Kithairon. 1026

And to what end were you traveling in those parts? 1027

At that time I was posted to the highland sheepfolds.

You were a shepherd and a nomad for your keep?

And your savior, child, at that very time. 1030

What injury did I have when you took me in your hands? 1031

The joints of your feet might bear witness. 1032

Ah no—why mention this age-old ill? 1033

I release you who have pierced tips of feet. 1034

Great scorn from swaddling clothes I’ve borne. 1035

And so you were named 1036.1 for this fate 1036.2 who you are. 1036.3

By the gods, by mother or by father? 1037.1 Tell! 1037.2

I don’t know. He who gave you better understands these things than I. 1038

What’s this—you got me from another 1039.1chancing not yourself . . . ?1039.2

No, another shepherd gives you to me.

Who is he—surely you well know to make it clear with speech. 1041

“One of Laios’ men,” I suppose, he was called. 1042

You mean this country’s ruler way back when? 1043

Precisely. Of this man this man was herdsman. 1044

Is he still living, this man, 1045.1 so I might see? 1045.2

You would all know best—his countrymen. 1046

Is there among you people standing near

One who knows the shepherd he describes

Either on his fields or seeing him right here? 1049

Make a sign; 1050.1 the time has come that these things be found out. 1050.2

I believe that he’s none other than the one from the fields

Whom also earlier you sought to look upon, but still regarding these

Things it might not be the worst for this lady here—Iokasta—to say. 1053

Wife, do you know him, whomever you sent for

Just now? Is he the one this man says? 1055

Why did he say, “whomever?” 1056 Do not dwell on it and do not

Desire what’s been said to be recalled 1057.1 to no effect. 1057.2

This could not be, 1058 that I once having gotten signs

Like these will not display my origin. 1059

Don’t, by the gods! Not if you care at all for your

Own life! Don’t seek this out—enough that I am sick! 1061

Buck up! For you, even if of mother three I prove to be

Third-generation slave, 1063.1 will not be exposed as bad. 1063.2

Be that as it may, 1064.1 obey me, I beg 1064.2 —do not do this! 1064.3

I could not be persuaded not to learn these things 1065.1 clearly.1065.2

And yet being particularly mindful I say what’s for your best. 1066

It’s long since just this “best” that gives me anguish. 1067

Ill-fated man, if only you might never know just who you are! 1068

Will someone bring the shepherd here to me?

Let her enjoy her wealthy family. 1070

Oh! Oh! You poor wretch! This alone remains

For me to say to you and nothing ever more again! 1072.1

[ Iokaste goes back into the palace.]1072.2

Why ever has she gone, Oidipous, darting off

In wild distress: your wife? 1074 I worry lest

Out of this silence awful things burst forth. 1075

Whatever must be, let it break out, 1076 but my own

Seed—be it ever so humble—I shall want to see. 1077

She likely feels (for as a woman she will give it great

importance) shame about my misbegotten birth, 1079

But I, who hold myself to be a child of Chance

Who gives what’s due, will find no disrespect. 1081

Such is the mother of whom I’m born. 1082 My sibs,

The months, 1083.1 defined me small and large. 1083.2

Conceived like this, 1084 I’d never wish to turn

Out to be another and so not learn my parentage. 1085

[Oidipous turns and walks back into his palace. The doors close behind him.]

If in fact I am a prophet 1086.1 and skilled in judgment, 1086.2

Not without experience, by Olympos, 1087

Oh Kithairon, shall you be under the morrow’s full moon,

Of my praising you as countryman of Oidipous

And nurse and mother 1092

And of being celebrated by our dance for having brought pleasing gifts

For my rulers. 1096

Hail Phoibos—unto you may these prayers be pleasing! 1097

You, child! Who birthed you? Who among the ageless 1098 was it, then:

A mountain-track treader, after she pressed up close to Pappy Pan?

Or one of Loxias’ consorts? 1102.1 To him all grazing lands are dear. 1102.2

Was it he who rules Kyllana’s peak?

Or the Bacchic god

Dwelling upon the mountains’

Upper slopes—did he get you, a foundling, on one of the

Dark-eyed nymphs with whom above all he loves to sport? 1107

If it is necessary, having never yet had dealings with

Him, gentlemen, that I make some conjecture, I believe I see

The shepherd we so long have sought. 1112 Advanced in age

He corresponds to this man’s measure well,

I recognize moreover his escorts as members of

My staff. 1115 In point of this one fact I’d say that you

Should have Advantage over me, having seen the man before. 1116

I recognize him, rest assured—he was one of Laios’ men.

Whatever else he may have been, he was a trusted herdsman. 1118

I shall begin the questioning with you, Corinthian stranger.

Is he the one you mean? 1120

This is he, whom indeed you look upon.

You here, old man! Look me in the eye and give reply

To questions as many as I ask of you. 1122.1 To Laios did you once belong? 1122.2

I did; a slave not bought, but brought up in his house. 1123

Concerned with what sort of work or life?

The better part of my life I followed flocks.

Primarily in what regions were your folds?

It was at times Kithairon, at times adjacent land.

So you know this fellow, having come to know him there?

What doing? What sort of man do you even mean? 1129

This one here—or did you never yet have an exchange? 1130

Not to mention off the top of my head. 1131

That’s not surprising, master. Yet what he

Seems not to know I shall remind him clearly. 1133

I know well that he was thoroughly acquainted with

The land about Kithairon having had a double flock,

I the while with one nearby through three whole

Six-month seasons—early spring to Arcturus’ rising.

When winter came I’d drive my flocks back to their folds

While he drove his to Laios’ pens. 1139 Am I relating these

Things somewhat right, or is this not just how it was?

You speak the truth, though from a time so far away. 1141

Come, then, answer—at that time you know

You gave me some child, a nursling to raise as my own? 1143

What of it? What’s the point in pursuing this question? 1144

This man here, friend, is he who then was young. 1145

The hell with you! Won’t you just shut up? 1146

Hold on! Do not chastise him, old fellow—

Your words want more correction than do his. 1148

In what respect, oh best of masters, 1149.1 am I doing wrong? 1149.2

Not telling of the child about whom he asks. 1150

Because he speaks in ignorance; 1151.1 he’s working differently. 1151.2

If you won’t answer nicely, you shall do so with your tears. 1152

In god’s name, no! Do not torment me, aged as I am! 1153

Quick now—will someone not twist back his arms?

Poor wretch 1155.1 —what for? 1155.2 What more needing to know? 1155.3

You gave the child to him here about whom he asks? 1156

I did and wish to’ve died that day. 1157

And yet you shall if you don’t say what’s right. 1158

Far better that once having spoken I should die. 1159

This man, it seems, is driving for wastage. 1160

Not I! I said I gave long since.

Where d’you get it—your home or someone else’s? 1162

Mine—not I. I got it from someone. 1163

From which of these townspeople and from what sort of house? 1164

Don’t—by the gods! Master, do not question more! 1165

You’re dead if this I ask you one more time. 1166

Among Laios’ begettings, see, he was one. 1167

So, slave 1168.1 or of his family 1168.2 was he born?

Ah, me! At that dreadful point I am: 1169 to speak.

And I to hear, but nonetheless it must be heard. 1170

His, since you insist, the child was said to be, but she

Gone in (your wife!) could best say how these matters stand. 1172

Because in fact she gives to you? 1173Exactly, Lord.

For what need? 1174.1I was meant to lay him waste. 1174.2

Having given birth—she dared? 1175.1In fear of inauspicious prophecies. 1175.2

Of what kind? 1176.1That the child the parents kill 1176.2 —that was the gist. 1176.3

How to this elder here discharged you? 1177

I had compassion, lord, and thought that he would take him

Off to that country 1179.1 whence he came. 1179.2 But he saved him

For greater ills. 1180 For if you’re who he says

You are, 1181.1 know that you’ve proved to be ill-fated! 1181.2

Ah! Ah! Everything might be coming clear! 1182

Oh, light! Would that for the last time I look upon you now, 1183

I who have been shown 1184.1 getting life from those I shouldn’t 1184.2

Consorting with those I ought not, 1185.1 killing those I must not. 1185.2

[Oidipous turns and reenters his palace. The doors close behind him.]

You, generations of mortals,

As living lives that equal nothing I account you! 1187

For who, what man, wins more

Of the god’s blessing 1190

Than as much as seems good

And having seemed, to go downhill? 1192

Having your example, understand,

Your spirit, yours, 1194.1 daring Oidipous, 1194.2

Nothing mortal count I happy.

For his bow surpassing well

Having aimed 1197.1 He held power over utterly blessed wealth—1197.2

Oh Zeus! 1198 —having wasted

The twisted-claw maiden,

Singer of prophetic songs 1200

A tower against my country’s deaths he stood. 1201

Since that time you are called my

King 1203.1 and have been honored for the greatest deeds 1203.2

In great Thebes holding court.

But now to hear tell who is more wretched? 1204

Who to frenzies 1205.1 savage, 1205.2 who in his toils 1205.3

Made hearth companion 1206.1 by his life’s change? 1206.2

Oh, famed Oidipous, 1207

Whom one selfsame great harbor sufficed,

Child and father, to sailings-in and sailings-out 1209.1 to fall! 1209.2

How ever, how ever

Did furrows inherited from the father

Bear you? How could they, wretched one,

So long their silence keep? 1212

He found you unwilling, he who sees all things: 1213.1 time 1213.2

To justice brings 1214.1 the unmarried marriage 1214.2 long ago 1214.3

Begetting and begotten. 1215

Oh, Laios’ child, 1216

Would that you, would that you

I’d never seen! 1218

For I wail exceedingly

From all my pores. 1220 Truth be told, I drew breath

Through you

And laid my eye to rest. 1222

You of this land held always highest in esteem, 1223

What deeds you are about to hear, what deeds about to see,

And how much grief you’ll bear, if native-born

You still revere Labdakus’ house! 1226

For I think neither Istros nor Phasis might

With purifying rite wash clean this house, 1228 so numerous the ones

It hides and those that presently it brings to light, evil deeds—1229

Willed and not unwilled. 1230 Of pains,

Those hurt most that show as self-inflicted. 1231

What we knew before does not fall short of being most

Lamentable; to that what have you to add? 1233

This speech both most quickly said

And understood: Iokasta’s godly head is dead. 1235

Wretched woman! 1236 Of whatever cause?

By her own hand. 1237 Of what’s been done

The most painful’s absent 1238.1 because the sight’s not there. 1238.2

Yet still, however much is in my memory,

You shall find out that wretched woman’s sufferings;

How she was frantic as she passed in from

The hall 1242 and straightway threw herself upon

Her bridal bed, 1243 tearing at her hair two-handedly.

The doors, once she’d gone in, having flung shut,

She calls to Laios’ long-dead corpse, 1245

The memory bearing of age-old seeds by which

He was meant to die and leave her bringing forth

To those she got from him the pains of labor 1248.2 ill-conceived. 1248.1

Then she bemoans the bed in which, wretched, doubly she

From spouse a spouse and children from her children bore. 1250

How after this she dies I know not,

For shouting loudly in burst Oidipous, due to whom

It was not possible to see her plight through to the end,

But at him as ‘round he reeled we gazed.

He goes about imploring us to bring a sword 1255

And wife (not wife!) 1256 where he’d find

Maternal double furrow (his and his kids’). 1257

And as he raves one of the gods shows him the way, 1258

For sure it wasn’t any of us men there near at hand. 1259

And shouting terribly, as if directed by some guide,

Into the double doors he drives, and from their hinge

Cups pushing down the caving doors he falls into her room. 1262

Thereupon we saw the woman hanged,

Entangled in a twisted noose. And he,

When he sees her, bellowing horribly, 1265 poor wretch,

Undoes the hanging rope. And when the poor

Thing’s lying on the ground—awful to see what happened next,

For drawing out the gold-worked clothing pins

From her, 1269 the ones with which she was fitted out, and having raised

them up, he plunged them to the bony cups of his own eyes, 1270

Expressing things like this: that they might not see

Him; neither what he suffered nor whatever misdeeds he did 1272

But in the dark the rest of life, those whom he must not

That he might see and those he must that he might not know. 1274

Such-like reciting often (not just once)

He was beating, piercing eyeballs. Ruddy organs soak

At once his chin, not welling oozing clots of gore

But with one clap a black thunderstorm of hailing blood

Drenched him. Upon the head of two, not one, this broke

As in husband and wife mingled 1280.1 ills. 1280.2

What once upon a time was happiness,

True happiness,1282 now on this very day

Groan, folly, death, disgrace—of all things bad1283

However many names there are, not one’s away.

--------------------------------

Now is the poor man getting respite from his pains? 1285

He’s shouting for someone to open up the doors 1286

And show to every Kadmeian the father-killer,

Mother . . . 1288.1 Voicing things unholy 1288.2 and unspeakable by me;

How from the country he shall fling himself, no more

Will he stay home accursed, as he himself cursed. 1291

For strength he lacks, 1292.1 you see, and some guide, 1292.2

Because the plague 1293 is more than he can bear.

But you he’ll also show, 1294 for these latches on the doors

Are opening. A spectacle you shall soon look upon

Such as to rouse to pity even one who hated him. 1296

[Oidipous taps his way through the doorway and out onto the stage

with a cane; he wears a new mask—bloody sockets for eyes.]1297

Oh—terrible to look upon suffering for men,

Oh—most terrible of all that I have ‘til now

Come upon. 1299 What insanity, poor man,

Came over you? 1300 Who was the divinity leaping

Beyond the farthest reaches 1301

To land upon your unhappy lot? 1302

Poor, poor wretch! Yet I’m incapable even

Of looking at you, though I want to ask so many questions,

To learn so many things, to consider so much;

Such a shiver you do give me! 1306

Ah, ah! Ah, ah!

Poor, poor

Wretch I am! 1307

Where on earth am I, long-suffering, being borne? 1308 Wherefore

Does a voice fly through me on a gust? 1310

Oh god! See where you leapt out! 1311

To terror neither audible nor visible. 1312

Oh! My cloud

Of darkness 1314.1 to make one turn away, 1314.2 sailing up without a word, 1314.3

Unsubduable 1315.1 and ill-winded. 1315.2

Ah, me!

Ah, me again! How a goad’s sharp sting

Penetrated me 1318.1 together with remembered ills. 1318.2

And no surprise in midst of such calamities

If doubly you lament and think on double ills. 1320

Oh, friend!

You my attendant, still steadfast! For still

You wait on me, caring for the blind man. 1323

Fie! Fie!

For you do not escape my notice; I know you clearly,

Though in darkness, by your sound anyway.

Oh the terrible things you’ve done, 1327.1 how did you dare 1327.2

Thus to extinguish your sight? Who urged you—which of the gods? 1328

Apollo was these things, Apollo, 1329 friends,

Who ills, ills accomplishing, 1330.1 mine, 1330.2 these my sufferings! 1330.3

Smote 1331.1 —a single-handed perpetrator 1331.2 —them, 1331.3

None 1331.4 daring but I. 1331.5

What then had I need to see, 1332

I to whom, sighted, nothing was sweet to look upon? 1333

These matters were even as you say. 1334

What seen by me or loved, what greeting still

Is possible to hear with pleasure, 1336 friends?

Lead me out of the land fast as can be! 1337

Lead away, friends, the great destroyer, 1338

Accursed most and moreover to the gods

most hated of mortals. 1340

Wretched in the thought 1341.1 and equally wretched in the event, 1341.2

How I would have wished that you had never known! 1342

May he perish who snatched me

From a savage bond on the grazing route,

Who pulled me from murder 1350 and gave me life,

Thereby doing no one any favor, 1351

For had I died then, now there would not be so much pain

For those I care about or myself. 1353

With my will too this would accord. 1356

I certainly would not as my father’s murderer 1357

Have come, nor “bridegroom” had I been called

By mortals from whom I sprang. 1359

As it is now—I am godless, 1360.1 child of parents impious, 1360.2

Bedded alike with those from whom I spawned, Wretch! 1361

And if there be some ill more senior still than evil,

This Oidipous achieved. 1363

I do not know how 1364.1 I could say that you’ve been well advised 1364.2

For you’d be better dead 1365.1 than living blind. 1365.2

That these actions were not as such the best

Don’t lecture me, and do not give me more advice, 1370

For I don’t know with what eyes (if I could see)

My father I could ever have looked upon, once in Hades I arrived

Nor have seen again my wretched mother, 1373 for both of whom

Deeds worked by me more forceful than a hanging. 1374

Or was the sight of children something I desired, 1375

Sprouting as they did 1376 for me to look upon?

Impossible! Especially for eyes of mine ever,

Nor citadel, nor tower, nor sacred statues of

The gods, 1379.1 of which I, supremely daring, 1379.2 the one

In all of Thebes most excellently raised, 1380

Deprived myself, myself commanding all:

Expel the irreverent man, the one by

The gods revealed to be unclean 1383.1 of Laios’ race. 1383.2

Of such defilement, having publicly displayed that it belonged

To me, was I to look these men straight in the eyes? 1385

No such thing! But were there yet a block

Of hearing’s stream through the ears I’d not hold back

From closing off my wretched frame

That I might be blind and nothing hear.

For living life with thought outside of wrongs is sweet. 1390

Kithairon, why did you receive me? Why, having seized

Me, did you not then straight off kill me, in order that

I never show to men myself and whence I’d come? 1393

Oh Polybos and Korinth and you ancient halls,

Parental by the name, 1395 what sort of beauty, then,

Festering beneath a surface of ills you raised in me

For being evil and of evils born 1397 I’m now found out.

Oh three paths and hidden glen!

Oak coppice and narrow pass where meet three roads,

You who my blood 1400 from my own hands

Drank—blood of my father! Surely you remember me,

The kind of deeds having done to you, then coming here

What sorts of deeds I was doing next? Oh Nuptials! Nuptials!

You planted us, and having planted once again

Produced the self-same seed, and so put on display

Fathers, siblings, children, kindred blood,

Brides wives and mothers and as many deeds

In mankind most disgusting come to pass. 1408

But since to say things that one does not do is not good, 1409

As quickly as may be done before the gods, hide me

Away 1411.1 outside the town someplace, or murder me, 1411.2 or cast

Me out upon the sea, where you’ll not see me any more. 1412

Go on—resolve to touch a man in misery!

Trust! Fear not! 1414 For there’s no mortal man apart from me

Who’s capable of bearing up beneath my ills. 1415

But respecting what you ask, here is Kreon, come

When needed to act and advise, since in your stead

He’s left to be the country’s sole protector. 1418

Ah, me . . . what word can I say to this man?

What trust in me will appear justified? For in the past

In everything regarding him I’ve been found wrong.

Not one to mock, Oidipous, am I come,

Nor to find fault with you at all for past misdeeds.

But if before the race of mortal men you here

No longer feel ashamed, at least the all-nurturing flame

Of Lord Helios respect, such an abomination

Uncovered thus to show, that neither earth

Nor sacred rain nor light of day will graciously receive. 1428

But quickly as may be, do usher him inside the house,

For family business is above all for family to see, 1430

Alone for them pious to hear the ills. 1431

Before the gods, 1432 now that you’ve torn me from

My expectation, the best man coming to the worst, to me, 1433

Comply with me about one thing; for your sake, not for mine, I ask. 1434

Pray tell–with what necessity you thus entreat me to fall in. 1435

Eject me from this land as fast as may be done,

Where of mortal men I will appear to address my speech to none. 1437

I would have acted thus, please understand, if of

The god first I must not inquire what must be done. 1439

But surely all his speech has been made absolutely clear

The father-slayer, unholy man—me!— to kill. 1441.1, 1441.2

Thus were these things declared. Still, given where

Of need we stand, we’d better ask what must be done. 1443

Concerning such a loser, will you really ask? 1444

At this point even you might bear the god some faith. 1445

Yes, but to you I thump the royal staff, to you I turn for help; 1446

The woman of the house—whatever burial you want yourself—

Arrange it thus 1448.1 —in any case you’ll do right by your own 1448.2 —

And never while I live let this my father’s citadel

Be forced to meet with me as resident. 1450

No, let me live among the mountains; mine,

This Kithairon, mother to me and father, when both

Were still alive, appointed as my grave. Thus shall I die

At their hands—they were bent on killing me. 1454

And yet so much I do know; neither illness nor aught else

Could have destroyed me, for I would never have been saved

When I was dying lest it be for some awful ill. 1457

All right, where our fate may be bound—let it go! 1458

For my male children, Kreon, do not on my behalf

Put forth concern. 1460 They’re men, so they

Shall never want, 1461 wherever they may be, for sustenance,

But for my wretched and piteous girls

Apart from whom the table of food was never set, 1463

Without this man, but however much I might lay hand upon,

In all these two always had a share—for them

Please be concerned. But most of all permit that I

May touch their hands and weep away the woes. 1467

Go on, my lord!

Go on, nobly born! If I could feel them with my hands

I would think I held them as I did when I could see. 1470

What am I saying?

Before the gods—I don’t suppose that I might hear

My dear ones weeping? 1473 Kreon, out of pity for me did you

Send out to me the children whom I cherish over everything? 1474

Am I saying something? 1475

You are. I am the one who arranged these things 1476

Aware the present joy long since has a hold on you. 1477

So may you prosper, 1478 and for taking this path may

You luck into a deity 1479.2 who watches better over you than he did me. 1479.1

My children—now where are you? 1480 Come,

As if to these fraternal hands of mine 1481

Which acted as proxies for you to see thus the formerly

Shining eyes of your seedling-planter 1482 father, 1483

I who to you, oh children, neither seeing nor making inquiry,

Was shown to be the plowman whence myself was sown.

I also weep for both of you, for I haven’t the strength to look ahead. 1486

Considering the hardships in what’s left to you of life

And that you’re both compelled to get your livelihood from other folks. 1488

For to what gatherings of the townsfolk will you go,

And from what festivals in tears you’ll not

Come home 1491.1 not having taken in the spectacle? 1491.2

But when you’re ripe for wedding feasts,

Who will the fellow 1493.1 be who’ll throw the dice 1493.2

By grasping, children, such reproaches as will

Upon my parents and likewise theirs be banes? 1495

What misfortune is absent? 1496 Your father slew

His father, her who bore him he plowed, in whom

He too’d been sown, and got you whence he too had sprung. 1499

Such reproaches will be yours. 1500 And then

Who’ll marry? Nobody, children; it’s quite clear

That barren and unwed you must waste away. 1502

Menoikeus’ son, since you alone are left

To act as father to these two, now we who gave

Them life both are wrecked, do not ignore

Them as they wander homeless, crouching beggars, 1506 manless kin,

And don’t equate these girls with my misdeeds, 1507

But pity them, 1508 seeing ones so young deprived

Of everything except whatever part they get from you.

Nod yes, your grace, and touch me with your hand. 1510

To you, my children, if you already had your wits,

Much I would have to recommend. 1512 Now pray for this:

That I live always where it’s proper, and you two

Meet with a better life than did the man who fathered you. 1514

Enough of weeping—now go inside. 1515

This must be obeyed, even it it is not sweet. 1516.1

For all things are in season fair. 1516.2

Do you know on what terms I shall go? 1517.1

You will speak, and when I hear I’ll know. 1517.2

That from this land you send me homeless. 1518.1

You ask of me the gift that is a god’s. 1518.2

But it’s precisely to the gods most hateful 1519.1 I have come. 1519.2

Then surely you will swiftly hit your goal. 1519.3

So say you? 1520.1

For what I do not comprehend I don’t lightly like to say. 1520.2

Then lead me off from here.

Depart and let your children go. 1521

On no account remove these girls from me!

Stop wanting to control all things;

Even what you ruled in life did not go your way. 1523

Inhabitants of Thebes our fatherland, behold; this is Oidipous

Who knew the famous riddles and was a most powerful man.

What citizen did not gaze upon his honor and good luck

In admiration ‘til he washed up in a wave of awful woe?

So if you give some thought; no mortal being

Should you deem happy to see his final day, until he end

His life’s full term not having suffered any pain. 1530

ὦ τέκνα, 1 Κάδμου τοῦ πάλαι νέα τροφή,

τίνας ποθʼ ἕδρας τάσδε μοι θοάζετε

ἱκτηρίοις κλάδοισιν ἐξεστεμμένοι; 3

πόλις δʼ ὁμοῦ μὲν θυμιαμάτων γέμει,

ὁμοῦ δὲ παιάνων 5 τε καὶ στεναγμάτων·

ἁγὼ δικαιῶν μὴ παρʼ ἀγγέλων, τέκνα,

ἄλλων ἀκούειν αὐτὸς ὧδʼ ἐλήλυθα, 7

ὁ πᾶσι κλεινὸς Οἰδίπους 8.1 καλούμενος. 8.2

ἀλλʼ ὦ γεραιέ, φράζʼ, ἐπεὶ πρέπων ἔφυς

πρὸ τῶνδε φωνεῖν, τίνι τρόπῳ καθέστατε,

δείσαντες ἢ στέρξαντες; ὡς θέλοντος ἂν

ἐμοῦ προσαρκεῖν πᾶν· δυσάλγητος γὰρ ἂν

εἴην τοιάνδε μὴ οὐ κατοικτίρων 13.1 ἕδραν. 13.2

ἀλλʼ ὦ κρατύνων Οἰδίπους χώρας ἐμῆς,

ὁρᾷς μὲν ἡμᾶς ἡλίκοι προσήμεθα

βωμοῖσι τοῖς σοῖς· 16 οἱ μὲν οὐδέπω μακρὰν

πτέσθαι σθένοντες, οἱ δὲ σὺν γήρᾳ βαρεῖς,

ἱερῆς, ἐγὼ μὲν Ζηνός, οἵδε τʼ ᾐθέων

λεκτοί· 19 τὸ δʼ ἄλλο φῦλον ἐξεστεμμένον

ἀγοραῖσι θακεῖ πρός τε Παλλάδος διπλοῖς

ναοῖς, ἐπʼ Ἰσμηνοῦ τε μαντείᾳ σποδῷ. 21

πόλις γάρ, ὥσπερ καὐτὸς εἰσορᾷς, 22 ἄγαν

ἤδη σαλεύει κἀνακουφίσαι κάρα

βυθῶν ἔτʼ οὐχ οἵα τε φοινίου σάλου,

φθίνουσα μὲν κάλυξιν ἐγκάρποις χθονός,

φθίνουσα δʼ ἀγέλαις βουνόμοις 26 τόκοισί τε

ἀγόνοις γυναικῶν· 27 ἐν δʼ ὁ πυρφόρος θεὸς

σκήψας ἐλαύνει, λοιμὸς ἔχθιστος, πόλιν,

ὑφʼ οὗ κενοῦται δῶμα Καδμεῖον, μέλας δʼ

Ἅιδης στεναγμοῖς καὶ γόοις πλουτίζεται. 30

θεοῖσι μέν νυν οὐκ ἰσούμενόν σʼ 31 ἐγὼ

οὐδʼ οἵδε παῖδες 32.1 ἑζόμεσθʼ ἐφέστιοι, 32.2

ἀνδρῶν δὲ πρῶτον ἔν τε συμφοραῖς βίου

κρίνοντες ἔν τε δαιμόνων συναλλαγαῖς· 34

ὅς γʼ ἐξέλυσας ἄστυ Καδμεῖον μολὼν

σκληρᾶς ἀοιδοῦ δασμὸν 36 ὃν παρείχομεν,

καὶ ταῦθʼ ὑφʼ ἡμῶν οὐδὲν ἐξειδὼς πλέον

οὐδʼ ἐκδιδαχθείς, ἀλλὰ προσθήκῃ θεοῦ 38

λέγει νομίζει θʼ ἡμὶν ὀρθῶσαι βίον· 39

νῦν τʼ, ὦ κράτιστον πᾶσιν Οἰδίπου κάρα,

ἱκετεύομέν σε πάντες οἵδε πρόστροποι

ἀλκήν τινʼ εὑρεῖν ἡμίν, εἴτε του θεῶν 42

φήμην ἀκούσας 43.1 εἴτʼ ἀπʼ ἀνδρὸς οἶσθά του· 43.2

ὡς τοῖσιν ἐμπείροισι καὶ τὰς ξυμφορὰς 44

ζώσας ὁρῶ μάλιστα τῶν βουλευμάτων. 45

ἴθʼ, ὦ βροτῶν ἄριστʼ, ἀνόρθωσον πόλιν,

ἴθʼ, εὐλαβήθηθʼ· ὡς σὲ νῦν μὲν ἥδε γῆ

σωτῆρα κλῄζει τῆς πάρος προθυμίας·

ἀρχῆς δὲ τῆς σῆς μηδαμῶς μεμνώμεθα

στάντες τʼ ἐς ὀρθὸν καὶ πεσόντες ὕστερον.

ἀλλʼ ἀσφαλείᾳ τήνδʼ ἀνόρθωσον πόλιν· 51

ὄρνιθι γὰρ καὶ τὴν τότʼ αἰσίῳ τύχην 52

παρέσχες ἡμῖν, καὶ τανῦν ἴσος γενοῦ. 53

ὡς εἴπερ ἄρξεις τῆσδε γῆς, ὥσπερ κρατεῖς,

ξὺν ἀνδράσιν κάλλιον ἢ κενῆς κρατεῖν·55

ὡς οὐδέν ἐστιν οὔτε πύργος 56 οὔτε ναῦς

ἔρημος ἀνδρῶν μὴ ξυνοικούντων ἔσω.

ὦ παῖδες οἰκτροί, γνωτὰ κοὐκ ἄγνωτά μοι

προσήλθεθʼ ἱμείροντες 59 εὖ γὰρ οἶδʼ ὅτι

νοσεῖτε πάντες, καὶ νοσοῦντες, ὡς ἐγὼ

οὐκ ἔστιν ὑμῶν ὅστις ἐξ ἴσου νοσεῖ.

τὸ μὲν γὰρ ὑμῶν ἄλγος εἰς ἕνʼ ἔρχεται

μόνον καθʼ αὑτὸν 63 κοὐδένʼ ἄλλον, ἡ δʼ ἐμὴ

ψυχὴ πόλιν τε κἀμὲ καὶ σʼ ὁμοῦ στένει. 64

ὥστʼ οὐχ ὕπνῳ γʼ εὕδοντά μʼ ἐξεγείρετε,

ἀλλʼ ἴστε πολλὰ μέν με δακρύσαντα δή,

πολλὰς δʼ ὁδοὺς ἐλθόντα 67 φροντίδος πλάνοις·

ἣν δʼ εὖ σκοπῶν ηὕρισκον ἴασιν μόνην,

ταύτην ἔπραξα· παῖδα γὰρ Μενοικέως

Κρέοντʼ, ἐμαυτοῦ γαμβρόν, ἐς τὰ Πυθικὰ

ἔπεμψα 71 Φοίβου δώμαθʼ, ὡς πύθοιθʼ ὅ τι

δρῶν ἢ τί φωνῶν 72 τήνδε ῥυσαίμην πόλιν.

καί μʼ ἦμαρ ἤδη ξυμμετρούμενον χρόνῳ

λυπεῖ τί πράσσει· τοῦ γὰρ εἰκότος πέρα

ἄπεστι πλείω τοῦ καθήκοντος χρόνου. 75

ὅταν δʼ ἵκηται, τηνικαῦτʼ ἐγὼ κακὸς

μὴ δρῶν ἂν εἴην πάνθʼ ὅσʼ ἂν δηλοῖ θεός. 77

ἀλλʼ εἰς καλὸν 78 σύ τʼ εἶπας οἵδε τʼ ἀρτίως

Κρέοντα προσστείχοντα σημαίνουσί μοι. 79

ὦναξ Ἄπολλον, 80 εἰ γὰρ ἐν τύχῃ γέ τῳ

σωτῆρι βαίη λαμπρὸς ὥσπερ ὄμματι 81

ἀλλʼ εἰκάσαι μέν, ἡδύς· οὐ γὰρ ἂν κάρα

πολυστεφὴς ὧδʼ εἷρπε παγκάρπου δάφνης.

τάχʼ εἰσόμεσθα· ξύμμετρος γὰρ ὡς κλύειν.

ἄναξ, ἐμὸν κήδευμα, 85 παῖ Μενοικέως,

τίνʼ ἡμὶν ἥκεις τοῦ θεοῦ φήμην φέρων; 86

ἐσθλήν· λέγω γὰρ καὶ τὰ δύσφορʼ, εἰ τύχοι

κατʼ ὀρθὸν ἐξελθόντα, πάντʼ ἂν εὐτυχεῖν. 88

ἔστιν δὲ ποῖον τοὔπος; οὔτε γὰρ θρασὺς

οὔτʼ οὖν προδείσας εἰμὶ 90 τῷ γε νῦν λόγῳ.