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+The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Iliad, by Homer
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
+most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
+of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
+www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you
+will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before
+using this eBook.
+
+Title: The Iliad
+       Translated into English Blank Verse
+
+Author: Homer
+
+Translator: William Cowper
+
+Release Date: August 5, 2005 [eBook #16452]
+[Most recently updated: September 4, 2021]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+Produced by: Ted Garvin, Melissa Er-Raqabi, Fred Robinson and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ILIAD ***
+
+
+
+
+There are several editions of this ebook in the Project Gutenberg
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+selecting the preferred file. Click on any of the filenumbers below to
+quickly view each ebook.
+
+22382    (With 800 linked footnotes, No illustrations)
+16452    (In blank verse, Many footnotes.)
+2199     (No footnotes or illustrations)
+6130     (Many line drawings, and 300 footnotes)
+3059
+6150
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+
+
+THE
+ILIAD OF HOMER,
+
+TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH BLANK VERSE
+BY WILLIAM COWPER.
+
+Zeus (Jupiter), seated upon an eagle
+
+EDITED BY ROBERT SOUTHEY. LL.D.
+
+
+WITH NOTES,
+BY M.A. DWIGHT,
+AUTHOR OF “GRECIAN AND ROMAN MYTHOLOGY.”
+
+
+NEW-YORK:
+D. APPLETON & CO., 346 & 348 BROADWAY.
+M.DCCC.LX.
+
+
+Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1849,
+
+By M.A. DWIGHT,
+
+in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court for the Southern District
+of New York.
+
+
+TO THE
+RIGHT HONORABLE
+EARL COWPER,
+THIS
+TRANSLATION OF THE ILIAD,
+THE INSCRIPTION OF WHICH TO HIMSELF,
+THE LATE LAMENTED EARL,
+BENEVOLENT TO ALL,
+AND ESPECIALLY KIND TO THE AUTHOR,
+HAD NOT DISDAINED TO ACCEPT
+IS HUMBLY OFFERED,
+AS A SMALL BUT GRATEFUL TRIBUTE,
+TO THE MEMORY OF HIS FATHER,
+BY HIS LORDSHIP’S
+AFFECTIONATE KINSMAN AND SERVANT
+
+WILLIAM COWPER.
+_June 4, 1791._
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+Whether a translation of Homer may be best executed in blank verse or
+in rhyme, is a question in the decision of which no man can find
+difficulty, who has ever duly considered what translation ought to be,
+or who is in any degree practically acquainted with those very
+different kinds of versification. I will venture to assert that a just
+translation of any ancient poet in rhyme, is impossible. No human
+ingenuity can be equal to the task of closing every couplet with sounds
+homotonous, expressing at the same time the full sense, and only the
+full sense of his original. The translator’s ingenuity, indeed, in this
+case becomes itself a snare, and the readier he is at invention and
+expedient, the more likely he is to be betrayed into the widest
+departures from the guide whom he professes to follow. Hence it has
+happened, that although the public have long been in possession of an
+English Homer by a poet whose writings have done immortal honor to his
+country, the demand of a new one, and especially in blank verse, has
+been repeatedly and loudly made by some of the best judges and ablest
+writers of the present day.
+
+I have no contest with my predecessor. None is supposable between
+performers on different instruments. Mr. Pope has surmounted all
+difficulties in his version of Homer that it was possible to surmount
+in rhyme. But he was fettered, and his fetters were his choice.
+Accustomed always to rhyme, he had formed to himself an ear which
+probably could not be much gratified by verse that wanted it, and
+determined to encounter even impossibilities, rather than abandon a
+mode of writing in which he had excelled every body, for the sake of
+another to which, unexercised in it as he was, he must have felt strong
+objections.
+
+I number myself among the warmest admirers of Mr. Pope as an original
+writer, and I allow him all the merit he can justly claim as the
+translator of this chief of poets. He has given us the _Tale of Troy
+divine_ in smooth verse, generally in correct and elegant language, and
+in diction often highly poetical. But his deviations are so many,
+occasioned chiefly by the cause already mentioned, that, much as he has
+done, and valuable as his work is on some accounts, it was yet in the
+humble province of a translator that I thought it possible even for me
+to fellow him with some advantage.
+
+That he has sometimes altogether suppressed the sense of his author,
+and has not seldom intermingled his own ideas with it, is a remark
+which, on this occasion, nothing but necessity should have extorted
+from me. But we differ sometimes so widely in our matter, that unless
+this remark, invidious as it seems, be premised, I know not how to
+obviate a suspicion, on the one hand, of careless oversight, or of
+factitious embellishment on the other. On this head, therefore, the
+English reader is to be admonished, that the matter found in me,
+whether he like it or not, is found also in Homer, and that the matter
+not found in me, how much soever he may admire it, is found only in Mr.
+Pope. I have omitted nothing; I have invented nothing.
+
+There is indisputably a wide difference between the case of an original
+writer in rhyme and a translator. In an original work the author is
+free; if the rhyme be of difficult attainment, and he cannot find it in
+one direction, he is at liberty to seek it in another; the matter that
+will not accommodate itself to his occasions he may discard, adopting
+such as will. But in a translation no such option is allowable; the
+sense of the author is required, and we do not surrender it willingly
+even to the plea of necessity. Fidelity is indeed of the very essence
+of translation, and the term itself implies it. For which reason, if we
+suppress the sense of our original, and force into its place our own,
+we may call our work an _imitation_, if we please, or perhaps a
+_paraphrase_, but it is no longer the same author only in a different
+dress, and therefore it is not translation. Should a painter,
+professing to draw the likeness of a beautiful woman, give her more or
+fewer features than belong to her, and a general cast of countenance of
+his own invention, he might be said to have produced a _jeu d’esprit_,
+a curiosity perhaps in its way, but by no means the lady in question.
+
+It will however be necessary to speak a little more largely to this
+subject, on which discordant opinions prevail even among good judges.
+
+The free and the close translation have, each, their advocates. But
+inconveniences belong to both. The former can hardly be true to the
+original author’s style and manner, and the latter is apt to be
+servile. The one loses his peculiarities, and the other his spirit.
+Were it possible, therefore, to find an exact medium, a manner so close
+that it should let slip nothing of the text, nor mingle any thing
+extraneous with it, and at the same time so free as to have an air of
+originality, this seems precisely the mode in which an author might be
+best rendered. I can assure my readers from my own experience, that to
+discover this very delicate line is difficult, and to proceed by it
+when found, through the whole length of a poet voluminous as Homer,
+nearly impossible. I can only pretend to have endeavored it.
+
+It is an opinion commonly received, but, like many others, indebted for
+its prevalence to mere want of examination, that a translator should
+imagine to himself the style which his author would probably have used,
+had the language into which he is rendered been his own. A direction
+which wants nothing but practicability to recommend it. For suppose six
+persons, equally qualified for the task, employed to translate the same
+Ancient into their own language, with this rule to guide them. In the
+event it would be found, that each had fallen on a manner different
+from that of all the rest, and by probable inference it would follow
+that none had fallen on the right. On the whole, therefore, as has been
+said, the translation which partakes equally of fidelity and
+liberality, that is close, but not so close as to be servile, free, but
+not so free as to be licentious, promises fairest; and my ambition will
+be sufficiently gratified, if such of my readers as are able, and will
+take the pains to compare me in this respect with Homer, shall judge
+that I have in any measure attained a point so difficult.
+
+As to energy and harmony, two grand requisites in a translation of this
+most energetic and most harmonious of all poets, it is neither my
+purpose nor my wish, should I be found deficient in either, or in both,
+to shelter myself under an unfilial imputation of blame to my
+mother-tongue. Our language is indeed less musical than the Greek, and
+there is no language with which I am at all acquainted that is not. But
+it is musical enough for the purposes of melodious verse, and if it
+seem to fail, on whatsoever occasion, in energy, the blame is due, not
+to itself, but to the unskilful manager of it. For so long as Milton’s
+works, whether his prose or his verse, shall exist, so long there will
+be abundant proof that no subject, however important, however sublime,
+can demand greater force of expression than is within the compass of
+the English language.
+
+I have no fear of judges familiar with original Homer. They need not be
+told that a translation of him is an arduous enterprise, and as such,
+entitled to some favor. From these, therefore, I shall expect, and
+shall not be disappointed, considerable candor and allowance.
+Especially _they_ will be candid, and I believe that there are many
+such, who have occasionally tried their own strength in this _bow of
+Ulysses_. They have not found it supple and pliable, and with me are
+perhaps ready to acknowledge that they could not always even approach
+with it the mark of their ambition. But I would willingly, were it
+possible, obviate uncandid criticism, because to answer it is lost
+labor, and to receive it in silence has the appearance of stately
+reserve, and self-importance.
+
+To those, therefore, who shall be inclined to tell me hereafter that my
+diction is often plain and unelevated, I reply beforehand that I know
+it,—that it would be absurd were it otherwise, and that Homer himself
+stands in the same predicament. In fact, it is one of his numberless
+excellences, and a point in which his judgment never fails him, that he
+is grand and lofty always in the right place, and knows infallibly how
+to rise and fall with his subject. _Big words on small matters_ may
+serve as a pretty exact definition of the burlesque; an instance of
+which they will find in the Battle of the Frogs and Mice, but none in
+the Iliad.
+
+By others I expect to be told that my numbers, though here and there
+tolerably smooth, are not always such, but have, now and then, an ugly
+hitch in their gait, ungraceful in itself, and inconvenient to the
+reader. To this charge also I plead guilty, but beg leave in
+alleviation of judgment to add, that my limping lines are not numerous,
+compared with those that limp not. The truth is, that not one of them
+all escaped me, but, such as they are, they were all made such with a
+wilful intention. In poems of great length there is no blemish more to
+be feared than sameness of numbers, and every art is useful by which it
+may be avoided. A line, rough in itself, has yet its recommendations;
+it saves the ear the pain of an irksome monotony, and seems even to add
+greater smoothness to others. Milton, whose ear and taste were
+exquisite, has exemplified in his Paradise Lost the effect of this
+practice frequently.
+
+Having mentioned Milton, I cannot but add an observation on the
+similitude of his manner to that of Homer. It is such, that no person
+familiar with both, can read either without being reminded of the
+other; and it is in those breaks and pauses, to which the numbers of
+the English poet are so much indebted both for their dignity and
+variety, that he chiefly copies the Grecian. But these are graces to
+which rhyme is not competent; so broken, it loses all its music; of
+which any person may convince himself by reading a page only of any of
+our poets anterior to Denham, Waller, and Dryden. A translator of
+Homer, therefore, seems directed by Homer himself to the use of blank
+verse, as to that alone in which he can be rendered with any tolerable
+representation of his manner in this particular. A remark which I am
+naturally led to make by a desire to conciliate, if possible, some,
+who, rather unreasonably partial to rhyme, demand it on all occasions,
+and seem persuaded that poetry in our language is a vain attempt
+without it. Verse, that claims to be verse in right of its metre only,
+they judge to be such rather by courtesy than by kind, on an
+apprehension that it costs the writer little trouble, that he has only
+to give his lines their prescribed number of syllables, and so far as
+the mechanical part is concerned, all is well. Were this true, they
+would have reason on their side; for the author is certainly best
+entitled to applause who succeeds against the greatest difficulty, and
+in verse that calls for the most artificial management in its
+construction. But the case is not as they suppose. To rhyme, in our
+language, demands no great exertion of ingenuity, but is always easy to
+a person exercised in the practice. Witness the multitudes who rhyme,
+but have no other poetical pretensions. Let it be considered too, how
+merciful we are apt to be to unclassical and indifferent language for
+the sake of rhyme, and we shall soon see that the labor lies
+principally on the other side. Many ornaments of no easy purchase are
+required to atone for the absence of this single recommendation. It is
+not sufficient that the lines of blank verse be smooth in themselves,
+they must also be harmonious in the combination. Whereas the chief
+concern of the rhymist is to beware that his couplets and his sense be
+commensurate, lest the regularity of his numbers should be (too
+frequently at least) interrupted. A trivial difficulty this, compared
+with those which attend the poet unaccompanied by his bells. He, in
+order that he may be musical, must exhibit all the variations, as he
+proceeds, of which ten syllables are susceptible; between the first
+syllable and the last there is no place at which he must not
+occasionally pause, and the place of the pause must be perpetually
+shifted. To effect this variety, his attention must be given, at one
+and the same time, to the pauses he has already made in the period
+before him, as well as to that which he is about to make, and to those
+which shall succeed it. On no lighter terms than these is it possible
+that blank verse can be written which will not, in the course of a long
+work, fatigue the ear past all endurance. If it be easier, therefore,
+to throw five balls into the air and to catch them in succession, than
+to sport in that manner with one only, then may blank verse be more
+easily fabricated than rhyme. And if to these labors we add others
+equally requisite, a style in general more elaborate than rhyme
+requires, farther removed from the vernacular idiom both in the
+language itself and in the arrangement of it, we shall not long doubt
+which of these two very different species of verse threatens the
+composer with most expense of study and contrivance. I feel it
+unpleasant to appeal to my own experience, but, having no other voucher
+at hand, am constrained to it. As I affirm, so I have found. I have
+dealt pretty largely in both kinds, and have frequently written more
+verses in a day, with tags, than I could ever write without them. To
+what has been here said (which whether it have been said by others or
+not, I cannot tell, having never read any modern book on the subject) I
+shall only add, that to be poetical without rhyme, is an argument of a
+sound and classical constitution in any language.
+
+A word or two on the subject of the following translation, and I have
+done.
+
+My chief boast is that I have adhered closely to my original, convinced
+that every departure from him would be punished with the forfeiture of
+some grace or beauty for which I could substitute no equivalent. The
+epithets that would consent to an English form I have preserved as
+epithets; others that would not, I have melted into the context. There
+are none, I believe, which I have not translated in one way or other,
+though the reader will not find them repeated so often as most of them
+are in Homer, for a reason that need not be mentioned.
+
+Few persons of any consideration are introduced either in the Iliad or
+Odyssey by their own name only, but their patronymic is given also. To
+this ceremonial I have generally attended, because it is a circumstance
+of my author’s manner.
+
+Homer never allots less than a whole line to the introduction of a
+speaker. No, not even when the speech itself is no longer than the line
+that leads it. A practice to which, since he never departs from it, he
+must have been determined by some cogent reason. He probably deemed it
+a formality necessary to the majesty of his narration. In this article,
+therefore, I have scrupulously adhered to my pattern, considering these
+introductory lines as heralds in a procession; important persons,
+because employed to usher in persons more important than themselves.
+
+It has been my point every where to be as little verbose as possible,
+though; at the same time, my constant determination not to sacrifice my
+author’s full meaning to an affected brevity.
+
+In the affair of style, I have endeavored neither to creep nor to
+bluster, for no author is so likely to betray his translator into both
+these faults, as Homer, though himself never guilty of either. I have
+cautiously avoided all terms of new invention, with an abundance of
+which, persons of more ingenuity than judgment have not enriched our
+language, but incumbered it. I have also every where used an
+unabbreviated fullness of phrase as most suited to the nature of the
+work, and, above all, have studied perspicuity, not only because verse
+is good for little that wants it, but because Homer is the most
+perspicuous of all poets.
+
+In all difficult places I have consulted the best commentators, and
+where they have differed, or have given, as is often the case, a
+variety of solutions, I have ever exercised my best judgment, and
+selected that which appears, at least to myself, the most probable
+interpretation. On this ground, and on account of the fidelity which I
+have already boasted, I may venture, I believe, to recommend my work as
+promising some usefulness to young students of the original.
+
+The passages which will be least noticed, and possibly not at all,
+except by those who shall wish to find me at a fault, are those which
+have cost me abundantly the most labor. It is difficult to kill a sheep
+with dignity in a modern language, to flay and to prepare it for the
+table, detailing every circumstance of the process. Difficult also,
+without sinking below the level of poetry, to harness mules to a wagon,
+particularizing every article of their furniture, straps, rings,
+staples, and even the tying of the knots that kept all together. Homer,
+who writes always to the eye, with all his sublimity and grandeur, has
+the minuteness of a Flemish painter.
+
+But in what degree I have succeeded in my version either of these
+passages, and such as these, or of others more buoyant and
+above-ground, and especially of the most sublime, is now submitted to
+the decision of the reader, to whom I am ready enough to confess that I
+have not at all consulted their approbation, who account nothing grand
+that is not turgid, or elegant that is not bedizened with metaphor.
+
+I purposely decline all declamation on the merits of Homer, because a
+translator’s praises of his author are liable to a suspicion of dotage,
+and because it were impossible to improve on those which this author
+has received already. He has been the wonder of all countries that his
+works have ever reached, even deified by the greatest names of
+antiquity, and in some places actually worshipped. And to say truth,
+were it possible that mere man could entitle himself by pre-eminence of
+any kind to divine honors, Homer’s astonishing powers seem to have
+given him the best pretensions.
+
+I cannot conclude without due acknowledgments to the best critic in
+Homer I have ever met with, the learned and ingenious Mr. Fuseli.
+Unknown as he was to me when I entered on this arduous undertaking
+(indeed to this moment I have never seen him) he yet voluntarily and
+generously offered himself as my revisor. To his classical taste and
+just discernment I have been indebted for the discovery of many
+blemishes in my own work, and of beauties, which would otherwise have
+escaped me, in the original. But his necessary avocations would not
+suffer him to accompany me farther than to the latter books of the
+Iliad, a circumstance which I fear my readers, as well as myself, will
+regret with too much reason.[1]
+
+I have obligations likewise to many friends, whose names, were it
+proper to mention them here, would do me great honor. They have
+encouraged me by their approbation, have assisted me with valuable
+books, and have eased me of almost the whole labor of transcribing.
+
+And now I have only to regret that my pleasant work is ended. To the
+illustrious Greek I owe the smooth and easy flight of many thousand
+hours. He has been my companion at home and abroad, in the study, in
+the garden, and in the field; and no measure of success, let my labors
+succeed as they may, will ever compensate to me the loss of the
+innocent luxury that I have enjoyed, as a translator of Homer.
+
+Footnote:
+
+Some of the few notes subjoined to my translation of the Odyssey are by
+Mr. Fuseli, who had a short opportunity to peruse the MSS. while the
+Iliad was printing. They are marked with his initial.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+PREPARED BY MR. COWPER,
+FOR A
+SECOND EDITION.
+
+Soon after my publication of this work, I began to prepare it for a
+second edition, by an accurate revisal of the first. It seemed to me,
+that here and there, perhaps a slight alteration might satisfy the
+demands of some, whom I was desirous to please; and I comforted myself
+with the reflection, that if I still failed to conciliate all, I should
+yet have no cause to account myself in a singular degree unfortunate.
+To please an unqualified judge, an author must sacrifice too much; and
+the attempt to please an uncandid one were altogether hopeless. In one
+or other of these classes may be ranged all such objectors, as would
+deprive blank verse of one of its principal advantages, the variety of
+its pauses; together with all such as deny the good effect, on the
+whole, of a line, now and then, less harmonious than its fellows.
+
+With respect to the pauses, it has been affirmed with an unaccountable
+rashness, that Homer himself has given me an example of verse without
+them. Had this been true, it would by no means have concluded against
+the use of them in an English version of Homer; because, in one
+language, and in one species of metre, that may be musical, which in
+another would be found disgusting. But the assertion is totally
+unfounded. The pauses in Homer’s verse are so frequent and various,
+that to name another poet, if pauses are a fault, more faulty than he,
+were, perhaps, impossible. It may even be questioned, if a single
+passage of ten lines flowing with uninterrupted smoothness could be
+singled out from all the thousands that he has left us. He frequently
+pauses at the first word of the line, when it consists of three or more
+syllables; not seldom when of two; and sometimes even when of one only.
+In this practice he was followed, as was observed in my Preface to the
+first edition, by the Author of the Paradise Lost. An example
+inimitable indeed, but which no writer of English heroic verse without
+rhyme can neglect with impunity.
+
+Similar to this is the objection which proscribes absolutely the
+occasional use of a line irregularly constructed. When Horace censured
+Lucilius for his lines _incomposite pede currentes_, he did not mean to
+say, that he was chargeable with such in some instances, or even in
+many, for then the censure would have been equally applicable to
+himself; but he designed by that expression to characterize all his
+writings. The censure therefore was just; Lucilius wrote at a time when
+the Roman verse had not yet received its polish, and instead of
+introducing artfully his rugged lines, and to serve a particular
+purpose, had probably seldom, and never but by accident, composed a
+smooth one. Such has been the versification of the earliest poets in
+every country. Children lisp, at first, and stammer; but, in time,
+their speech becomes fluent, and, if they are well taught, harmonious.
+
+Homer himself is not invariably regular in the construction of his
+verse. Had he been so, Eustathius, an excellent critic and warm admirer
+of Homer, had never affirmed, that some of his lines want a head, some
+a tail, and others a middle. Some begin with a word that is neither
+dactyl nor spondee, some conclude with a dactyl, and in the
+intermediate part he sometimes deviates equally from the established
+custom. I confess that instances of this sort are rare; but they are
+surely, though few, sufficient to warrant a sparing use of similar
+license in the present day.
+
+Unwilling, however, to seem obstinate in both these particulars, I
+conformed myself in some measure to these objections, though
+unconvinced myself of their propriety. Several of the rudest and most
+unshapely lines I composed anew; and several of the pauses least in use
+I displaced for the sake of an easier enunciation.—And this was the
+state of the work after the revisal given it about seven years since.
+
+Between that revisal and the present a considerable time intervened,
+and the effect of long discontinuance was, that I became more
+dissatisfied with it myself, than the most difficult to be pleased of
+all my judges. Not for the sake of a few uneven lines or unwonted
+pauses, but for reasons far more substantial. The diction seemed to me
+in many passages either not sufficiently elevated, or deficient in the
+grace of ease, and in others I found the sense of the original either
+not adequately expressed or misapprehended. Many elisions still
+remained unsoftened; the compound epithets I found not always happily
+combined, and the same sometimes too frequently repeated.
+
+There is no end of passages in Homer, which must creep unless they are
+lifted; yet in such, all embellishment is out of the question. The hero
+puts on his clothes, or refreshes himself with food and wine, or he
+yokes his steed, takes a journey, and in the evening preparation is
+made for his repose. To give relief to subjects prosaic as these
+without seeming unreasonably tumid is extremely difficult. Mr. Pope
+much abridges some of them, and others he omits; but neither of these
+liberties was compatible with the nature of my undertaking. These,
+therefore, and many similar to these, have been new-modeled; somewhat
+to their advantage I hope, but not even now entirely to my
+satisfaction. The lines have a more natural movement, the pauses are
+fewer and less stately, the expression as easy as I could make it
+without meanness, and these were all the improvements that I could give
+them.
+
+The elisions, I believe, are all cured, with only one exception. An
+alternative proposes itself to a modern versifier, from which there is
+no escape, which occurs perpetually, and which, choose as he may,
+presents him always with an evil. I mean in the instance of the
+particle (_the_). When this particle precedes a vowel, shall he melt it
+into the substantive, or leave the _hiatus_ open? Both practices are
+offensive to a delicate ear. The particle absorbed occasions harshness,
+and the open vowel a vacuity equally inconvenient. Sometimes,
+therefore, to leave it open, and sometimes to ingraft it into its
+adjunct seems most advisable; this course Mr. Pope has taken, whose
+authority recommended it to me; though of the two evils I have most
+frequently chosen the elision as the least.
+
+Compound epithets have obtained so long in the poetical language of our
+country, that I employed them without fear or scruple. To have
+abstained from them in a blank verse translation of Homer, who abounds
+with them, and from whom our poets probably first adopted them, would
+have been strange indeed. But though the genius of our language favors
+the formation of such words almost as much as that of the Greek, it
+happens sometimes, that a Grecian compound either cannot be rendered in
+English at all, or, at best, but awkwardly. For this reason, and
+because I found that some readers much disliked them, I have expunged
+many; retaining, according to my best judgment, the most eligible only,
+and making less frequent the repetitions even of these.
+
+I know not that I can add any thing material on the subject of this
+last revisal, unless it be proper to give the reason why the Iliad,
+though greatly altered, has undergone much fewer alterations than the
+Odyssey. The true reason I believe is this. The Iliad demanded my
+utmost possible exertions; it seemed to meet me like an ascent almost
+perpendicular, which could not be surmounted at less cost than of all
+the labor that I could bestow on it. The Odyssey on the contrary seemed
+to resemble an open and level country, through which I might travel at
+my ease. The latter, therefore, betrayed me into some negligence,
+which, though little conscious of it at the time, on an accurate
+search, I found had left many disagreeable effects behind it.
+
+I now leave the work to its fate. Another may labor hereafter in an
+attempt of the same kind with more success; but more industriously, I
+believe, none ever will.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+BY
+J. JOHNSON, LL.B.
+CHAPLAIN TO THE BISHOP OF PETERBOROUGH.
+
+I have no other pretensions to the honorable name of Editor on this
+occasion, than as a faithful transcriber of the Manuscript, and a
+diligent corrector of the Press, which are, doubtless, two of the very
+humblest employments in that most extensive province. I have wanted the
+ability to attempt any thing higher; and, fortunately for the reader, I
+have also wanted the presumption. What, however, I can do, I will.
+Instead of critical remark, I will furnish him with anecdote. He shall
+trace from beginning to end the progress of the following work; and in
+proportion as I have the happiness to engage his attention, I shall
+merit the name of a fortunate editor.
+
+It was in the darkest season of a most calamitous depression of his
+spirits, that I was summoned to the house of my inestimable friend the
+Translator, in the month of January, 1794. He had happily completed a
+revisal of his Homer, and was thinking of the preface to his new
+edition, when all his satisfaction in the one, and whatever he had
+projected for the other, in a moment vanished from his mind. He had
+fallen into a deplorable illness; and though the foremost wish of my
+heart was to lessen the intenseness of his misery, I was utterly unable
+to afford him any aid.
+
+I had, however, a pleasing though a melancholy opportunity of tracing
+his recent footsteps in the Field of Troy, and in the Palace of Ithaca.
+He had materially altered both the Iliad and Odyssey; and, so far as my
+ability allowed me to judge, they were each of them greatly improved.
+He had also, at the request of his bookseller, interspersed the two
+poems with copious notes; for the most part translations of the ancient
+Scholia, and gleaned, at the cost of many valuable hours, from the
+pages of Barnes, Clarke, and Villoisson. It has been a constant subject
+of regret to the admirers of “The Task,” that the exercise of such
+marvelous original powers, should have been so long suspended by the
+drudgery of translation; and in this view, their quarrel with the
+illustrious Greek will be, doubtless, extended to his commentators.[1]
+
+During two long years from this most anxious period, the translation
+continued as it was; and though, in the hope of its being able to
+divert his melancholy, I had attempted more than once to introduce it
+to its Author, I was every time painfully obliged to desist. But in the
+summer of ninety-six, when he had resided with me in Norfolk twelve
+miserable months, the introduction long wished for took place. To my
+inexpressible astonishment and joy, I surprised him, one morning, with
+the Iliad in his hand; and with an excess of delight, which I am still
+more unable to describe, I the next day discovered that he had been
+writing.—Were I to mention one of the happiest moments of my life, it
+might be that which introduced me to the following lines:—
+
+Mistaken meanings corrected,
+admonente G. Wakefield. B. XXIII. L. 429.	that the nave
+Of thy neat wheel seem e’en to grind upon it. L. 865.	As when (the
+north wind freshening) near the bank
+Up springs a fish in air, then falls again
+And disappears beneath the sable flood,
+So at the stroke, he bounded. L. 1018.	Thenceforth Tydides o’er his
+ample shield
+Aim’d and still aim’d to pierce him in the neck. Or better thus—
+Tydides, in return, with spear high-poised
+O’er the broad shield, aim’d ever at his neck, Or best of all— Then
+Tydeus’ son, with spear high-poised above
+The ample shield, stood aiming at his neck.
+
+He had written these lines with a pencil, on a leaf at the end of his
+Iliad; and when I reflected on the cause which had given them birth, I
+could not but admire its disproportion to the effect. What the voice of
+persuasion had failed in for a year, accident had silently accomplished
+in a single day. The circumstance I allude to was this: I received a
+copy of the Iliad and Odyssey of Pope, then recently published by the
+Editor above mentioned, with illustrative and critical notes of his
+own. As it commended Mr. Cowper’s Translation in the Preface, and
+occasionally pointed out its merits in the Notes, I was careful to
+place it in his way; though it was more from a habit of experiment
+which I had contracted, than from well-grounded hopes of success. But
+what a fortunate circumstance was the arrival of this Work! and by what
+name worthy of its influence shall I call it? In the mouth of an
+indifferent person it might be Chance; but in mine; whom it rendered so
+peculiarly happy, common gratitude requires that it should be
+Providence.
+
+As I watched him with an indescribable interest in his progress, I had
+the satisfaction to find, that, after a few mornings given to
+promiscuous correction, and to frequent perusal of the above-mentioned
+Notes, he was evidently settling on the sixteenth Book. This he went
+regularly through, and the fruits of an application so happily resumed
+were, one day with another, about sixty new lines. But with the end of
+the sixteenth Book he had closed the corrections of the year. An
+excursion to the coast, which immediately followed, though it promised
+an accession of strength to the body, could not fail to interfere with
+the pursuits of the mind. It was therefore with much less surprise than
+regret, that I saw him relinquish the “_Tale of Troy Divine_.”
+
+Such was the prelude to the last revisal, which, in the month of
+January, ninety-seven, Mr. Cowper was persuaded to undertake; and to a
+faithful copy, as I trust, of which, I have at this time the honor to
+conduct the reader. But it may not be amiss to observe, that with
+regard to the earlier books of the Iliad, it was less a revisal of the
+altered text, than of the text as it stands in the first edition. For
+though the interleaved copy was always at hand, and in the multitude of
+its altered places could hardly fail to offer some things worthy to be
+preserved, but which the ravages of illness and the lapse of time might
+have utterly effaced from his mind, I could not often persuade the
+Translator to consult it. I was therefore induced, in the course of
+transcribing, to compare the two revisals as I went along, and to plead
+for the continuance of the first correction, when it forcibly struck me
+as better than the last. This, however, but seldom occurred; and the
+practice, at length, was completely left off, by his consenting to
+receive into the number of the books which were daily laid open before
+him, the interleaved copy to which I allude.
+
+At the end of the first six books of the Iliad, the arrival of spring
+brought the usual interruptions of exercise and air, which increased as
+the summer advanced to a degree so unfavorable to the progress of
+Homer, that in the requisite attention to their salutary claims, the
+revisal was, at one time, altogether at a stand. Only four books were
+added in the course of nine months; but opportunity returning as the
+winter set in, there were added, in less than seven weeks, four more:
+and thus ended the year ninety-seven.
+
+As the spring that succeeded was a happier spring, so it led to a
+happier summer. We had no longer air and exercise alone, but exercise
+and Homer hand in hand. He even followed us thrice to the sea: and
+whether our walks were
+
+“on the margin of the land,
+O’er the green summit of the” cliffs, “whose base
+Beats back the roaring surge,”
+“or on the shore
+Of the untillable and barren deep,”
+
+they were always within hearing of his magic song. About the middle of
+this busy summer, the revisal of the Iliad was brought to a close; and
+on the very next day, the 24th of July, the correction of the Odyssey
+commenced,—a morning rendered memorable by a kind and unexpected visit
+from the patroness of that work, the Dowager Lady Spencer!
+
+It is not my intention to detain the reader with a progressive account
+of the Odyssey revised, as circumstantial as that of the Iliad, because
+it went on smoothly from beginning to end, and was finished in less
+than eight months.
+
+I cannot deliver these volumes to the public without feeling emotions
+of gratitude toward Heaven, in recollecting how often this corrected
+Work has appeared to me an instrument of Divine mercy, to mitigate the
+sufferings of my excellent relation. Its progress in our private hours
+was singularly medicinal to his mind: may its presentment to the Public
+prove not less conducive to the honor of the departed Author, who has
+every claim to my veneration! As a copious life of the Poet is already
+in the press, from the pen of his intimate friend Mr. Hayley, it is
+unnecessary for me to enter on such extensive commendation of his
+character, as my own intimacy with him might suggest; but I hope the
+reader will kindly allow me the privilege of indulging, in some degree,
+the feelings of my heart, by applying to him, in the close of this
+Preface, an expressive verse (borrowed from Homer) which he inscribed
+himself, with some little variation, on a bust of his Grecian Favorite.
+
+
+Ως τε πατηρ ω παιδι, και ουποτε λησομαι αυτε.
+
+Loved as his Son, in him I early found
+A Father, such as I will ne’er forget.
+
+
+Footnote:
+
+Very few signatures had at this time been affixed to the notes; but I
+afterward compared them with the Greek, note by note, and endeavored to
+supply the defect; more especially in the last three Volumes, where the
+reader will be pleased to observe that all the notes without signatures
+are Mr. Cowper’s, and that those marked B.C.V. are respectively found
+in the editions of Homer by Barnes, Clarke, and Villoisson. But the
+employment was so little to the taste and inclination of the poet, that
+he never afterward revised them, or added to their number more than
+these which follow;—In the Odyssey, Vol. I. Book xi., the note 32.—Vol.
+II. Book xv., the note 13.—The note10 Book xvi., of that volume, and
+the note 14, Book xix., of the same.
+
+
+
+
+ADVERTISEMENT TO SOUTHEY’S EDITION
+
+
+It is incumbent upon the present Editor to state the reasons which have
+induced him, between two editions of Cowper’s Homer, differing so
+materially from each other that they might almost be deemed different
+versions, to prefer the first.
+
+Whoever has perused the Translator’s letters, must have perceived that
+he had considered with no ordinary care the scheme of his
+versification, and that when he resolved upon altering it in a second
+edition, it was in deference to the opinion of others.
+
+It seems to the Editor that Cowper’s own judgment is entitled to more
+respect, than that of any, or all his critics; and that the version
+which he composed when his faculties were most active and his spirits
+least subject to depression,—indeed in the happiest part of his
+life,—ought not to be superseded by a revisal, or rather
+reconstruction, which was undertaken three years before his death,—not
+like the first translation as “a pleasant work, an innocent luxury,”
+the cheerful and delightful occupation of hope and ardor and
+ambition,—but as a “hopeless employment,” a task to which he gave “all
+his miserable days, and often many hours of the night,” seeking to
+beguile the sense of utter wretchedness, by altering as if for the sake
+of alteration.
+
+The Editor has been confirmed in this opinion by the concurrence of
+every person with whom he has communicated on the subject. Among others
+he takes the liberty of mentioning Mr. Cary, whose authority upon such
+a question is of especial weight, the Translator of Dante being the
+only one of our countrymen who has ever executed a translation of equal
+magnitude and not less difficulty, with the same perfect fidelity and
+admirable skill.
+
+In support of this determination, the case of Tasso may be cited as
+curiously in point. The great Italian poet altered his Jerusalem like
+Cowper, against his own judgment, in submission to his critics: he made
+the alteration in the latter years of his life, and in a diseased state
+of mind; and he proceeded upon the same prescribed rule of smoothing
+down his versification, and removing all the elisions. The consequence
+has been that the reconstructed poem is utterly neglected, and has
+rarely, if ever, been reprinted, except in the two great editions of
+his collected works; while the original poem has been and continues to
+be in such demand, that the most diligent bibliographer might vainly
+attempt to enumerate all the editions through which it has passed.
+
+
+
+
+EDITOR’S NOTE.
+
+
+It will be seen by the Advertisement to Southey’s edition of Cowper’s
+Translation of the Iliad, that he has the highest opinion of its
+merits, and that he also gives the preference to Cowper’s unrevised
+edition. The Editor of the present edition is happy to offer it to the
+public under the sanction of such high authority.
+
+In the addition of notes I have availed myself of the learning of
+various commentators (Pope, Coleridge, Müller, etc.) and covet no
+higher praise than the approval of my judgment in the selection.
+
+Those bearing the signature E.P.P., were furnished by my friend Miss
+Peabody, of Boston. I would also acknowledge my obligations to C.C.
+Felton, Eliot Professor of Greek in Harvard University. It should be
+observed, that the remarks upon the language of the poem refer to it in
+the original.
+
+For a definite treatment of the character of each deity introduced in
+the Iliad, and for the fable of the Judgment of Paris, which was the
+primary cause of the Trojan war, the reader is referred to “Grecian and
+Roman Mythology.”
+
+It is intended that this edition of the Iliad shall be followed by a
+similar one of the Odyssey, provided sufficient encouragement is given
+by the demand for the present volume.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+ BOOK I.
+ BOOK II.
+ BOOK III.
+ BOOK IV.
+ BOOK V.
+ BOOK VI.
+ BOOK VII.
+ BOOK VIII.
+ BOOK IX.
+ BOOK X.
+ BOOK XI.
+ BOOK XII.
+ BOOK XIII.
+ BOOK XIV.
+ BOOK XV.
+ BOOK XVI.
+ BOOK XVII.
+ BOOK XVIII.
+ BOOK XIX.
+ BOOK XX.
+ BOOK XXI.
+ BOOK XXII.
+ BOOK XXIII.
+ BOOK XXIV.
+
+
+
+
+THE
+ILIAD OF HOMER,
+TRANSLATED INTO
+ENGLISH BLANK VERSE.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK I.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE FIRST BOOK.
+
+The book opens with an account of a pestilence that prevailed in the
+Grecian camp, and the cause of it is assigned. A council is called, in
+which fierce altercation takes place between Agamemnon and Achilles.
+The latter solemnly renounces the field. Agamemnon, by his heralds,
+demands Brisëis, and Achilles resigns her. He makes his complaint to
+Thetis, who undertakes to plead his cause with Jupiter. She pleads it,
+and prevails. The book concludes with an account of what passed in
+Heaven on that occasion.
+
+
+[The reader will please observe, that by Achaians, Argives, Danaï, are
+signified Grecians. Homer himself having found these various
+appellatives both graceful and convenient, it seemed unreasonable that
+a Translator of him should be denied the same advantage.—Tr.]
+
+
+BOOK I.
+
+
+Achilles sing, O Goddess! Peleus’ son;
+His wrath pernicious, who ten thousand woes
+Caused to Achaia’s host, sent many a soul
+Illustrious into Ades premature,
+And Heroes gave (so stood the will of Jove)5
+To dogs and to all ravening fowls a prey,
+When fierce dispute had separated once
+The noble Chief Achilles from the son
+Of Atreus, Agamemnon, King of men.
+Who them to strife impell’d? What power divine?10
+Latona’s son and Jove’s.[1] For he, incensed
+Against the King, a foul contagion raised
+In all the host, and multitudes destroy’d,
+For that the son of Atreus had his priest
+Dishonored, Chryses. To the fleet he came15
+Bearing rich ransom glorious to redeem
+His daughter, and his hands charged with the wreath
+And golden sceptre[2] of the God shaft-arm’d.
+His supplication was at large to all
+The host of Greece, but most of all to two,20
+The sons of Atreus, highest in command.
+Ye gallant Chiefs, and ye their gallant host,
+(So may the Gods who in Olympus dwell
+Give Priam’s treasures to you for a spoil
+And ye return in safety,) take my gifts25
+And loose my child, in honor of the son
+Of Jove, Apollo, archer of the skies.[3]
+At once the voice of all was to respect
+The priest, and to accept the bounteous price;
+But so it pleased not Atreus’ mighty son,30
+Who with rude threatenings stern him thence dismiss’d.
+Beware, old man! that at these hollow barks
+I find thee not now lingering, or henceforth
+Returning, lest the garland of thy God
+And his bright sceptre should avail thee nought.35
+I will not loose thy daughter, till old age
+Steal on her. From her native country far,
+In Argos, in my palace, she shall ply
+The loom, and shall be partner of my bed.
+Move me no more. Begone; hence while thou may’st.40
+He spake, the old priest trembled and obey’d.
+Forlorn he roamed the ocean’s sounding shore,
+And, solitary, with much prayer his King
+Bright-hair’d Latona’s son, Phœbus, implored.[4]
+God of the silver bow, who with thy power45
+Encirclest Chrysa, and who reign’st supreme
+In Tenedos and Cilla the divine,
+Sminthian[5] Apollo![6] If I e’er adorned
+Thy beauteous fane, or on the altar burn’d
+The fat acceptable of bulls or goats,50
+Grant my petition. With thy shafts avenge
+On the Achaian host thy servant’s tears.
+Such prayer he made, and it was heard.[7] The God,
+Down from Olympus with his radiant bow
+And his full quiver o’er his shoulder slung,55
+Marched in his anger; shaken as he moved
+His rattling arrows told of his approach.
+Gloomy he came as night; sat from the ships
+Apart, and sent an arrow. Clang’d the cord
+[8]Dread-sounding, bounding on the silver bow.[9]60
+Mules first and dogs he struck,[10] but at themselves
+Dispatching soon his bitter arrows keen,
+Smote them. Death-piles on all sides always blazed.
+Nine days throughout the camp his arrows flew;
+The tenth, Achilles from all parts convened65
+The host in council. Juno the white-armed
+Moved at the sight of Grecians all around
+Dying, imparted to his mind the thought.[11]
+The full assembly, therefore, now convened,
+Uprose Achilles ardent, and began.70
+
+Atrides! Now, it seems, no course remains
+For us, but that the seas roaming again,
+We hence return; at least if we survive;
+But haste, consult we quick some prophet here
+Or priest, or even interpreter of dreams,75
+(For dreams are also of Jove,) that we may learn
+By what crime we have thus incensed Apollo,
+What broken vow, what hecatomb unpaid
+He charges on us, and if soothed with steam
+Of lambs or goats unblemish’d, he may yet80
+Be won to spare us, and avert the plague.
+He spake and sat, when Thestor’s son arose
+Calchas, an augur foremost in his art,
+Who all things, present, past, and future knew,
+And whom his skill in prophecy, a gift85
+Conferred by Phœbus on him, had advanced
+To be conductor of the fleet to Troy;
+He, prudent, them admonishing, replied.[12]
+Jove-loved Achilles! Wouldst thou learn from me
+What cause hath moved Apollo to this wrath,90
+The shaft-arm’d King? I shall divulge the cause.
+But thou, swear first and covenant on thy part
+That speaking, acting, thou wilt stand prepared
+To give me succor; for I judge amiss,
+Or he who rules the Argives, the supreme95
+O’er all Achaia’s host, will be incensed.
+Wo to the man who shall provoke the King
+For if, to-day, he smother close his wrath,
+He harbors still the vengeance, and in time
+Performs it. Answer, therefore, wilt thou save me?100
+To whom Achilles, swiftest of the swift.
+What thou hast learn’d in secret from the God
+That speak, and boldly. By the son of Jove,
+Apollo, whom thou, Calchas, seek’st in prayer
+Made for the Danaï, and who thy soul105
+Fills with futurity, in all the host
+The Grecian lives not, who while I shall breathe,
+And see the light of day, shall in this camp
+Oppress thee; no, not even if thou name
+Him, Agamemnon, sovereign o’er us all.110
+Then was the seer embolden’d, and he spake.
+Nor vow nor hecatomb unpaid on us
+He charges, but the wrong done to his priest
+Whom Agamemnon slighted when he sought
+His daughter’s freedom, and his gifts refused.115
+He is the cause. Apollo for his sake
+Afflicts and will afflict us, neither end
+Nor intermission of his heavy scourge
+Granting, till unredeem’d, no price required,
+The black-eyed maid be to her father sent,120
+And a whole hecatomb in Chrysa bleed.
+Then, not before, the God may be appeased.
+He spake and sat; when Atreus’ son arose,
+The Hero Agamemnon, throned supreme.
+Tempests of black resentment overcharged125
+His heart, and indignation fired his eyes.
+On Calchas lowering, him he first address’d.
+Prophet of mischief! from whose tongue no note
+Of grateful sound to me, was ever heard;
+Ill tidings are thy joy, and tidings glad130
+Thou tell’st not, or thy words come not to pass.
+And now among the Danaï thy dreams
+Divulging, thou pretend’st the Archer-God
+For his priest’s sake, our enemy, because
+I scorn’d his offer’d ransom of the maid135
+Chrysëis, more desirous far to bear
+Her to my home, for that she charms me more
+Than Clytemnestra, my own first espoused,
+With whom, in disposition, feature, form,
+Accomplishments, she may be well compared.140
+Yet, being such, I will return her hence
+If that she go be best. Perish myself—
+But let the people of my charge be saved
+Prepare ye, therefore, a reward for me,
+And seek it instant. It were much unmeet145
+That I alone of all the Argive host
+Should want due recompense, whose former prize
+Is elsewhere destined, as ye all perceive.
+To whom Achilles, matchless in the race.
+Atrides, glorious above all in rank,150
+And as intent on gain as thou art great,
+Whence shall the Grecians give a prize to thee?
+The general stock is poor; the spoil of towns
+Which we have taken, hath already passed
+In distribution, and it were unjust155
+To gather it from all the Greeks again.
+But send thou back this Virgin to her God,
+And when Jove’s favor shall have given us Troy,
+A threefold, fourfold share shall then be thine.
+To whom the Sovereign of the host replied.160
+Godlike Achilles, valiant as thou art,
+Wouldst thou be subtle too? But me no fraud
+Shall overreach, or art persuade, of thine.
+Wouldst thou, that thou be recompensed, and I
+Sit meekly down, defrauded of my due?165
+And didst thou bid me yield her? Let the bold
+Achaians give me competent amends,
+Such as may please me, and it shall be well.
+Else, if they give me none, I will command
+Thy prize, the prize of Ajax, or the prize170
+It may be of Ulysses to my tent,
+And let the loser chafe. But this concern
+Shall be adjusted at convenient time.
+Come—launch we now into the sacred deep
+A bark with lusty rowers well supplied;175
+Then put on board Chrysëis, and with her
+The sacrifice required. Go also one
+High in authority, some counsellor,
+Idomeneus, or Ajax, or thyself,
+Thou most untractable of all mankind;180
+And seek by rites of sacrifice and prayer
+To appease Apollo on our host’s behalf.
+Achilles eyed him with a frown, and spake.
+Ah! clothed with impudence as with a cloak,
+And full of subtlety, who, thinkest thou—185
+What Grecian here will serve thee, or for thee
+Wage covert war, or open? Me thou know’st,
+Troy never wronged; I came not to avenge
+Harm done to me; no Trojan ever drove
+My pastures, steeds or oxen took of mine,190
+Or plunder’d of their fruits the golden fields
+Of Phthia[13] the deep-soil’d. She lies remote,
+And obstacles are numerous interposed,
+Vale-darkening mountains, and the dashing sea.
+No, [14]Shameless Wolf! For thy good pleasure’s sake195
+We came, and, [15]Face of flint! to avenge the wrongs
+By Menelaus and thyself sustain’d,
+On the offending Trojan—service kind,
+But lost on thee, regardless of it all.
+And now—What now? Thy threatening is to seize200
+Thyself, the just requital of my toils,
+My prize hard-earn’d, by common suffrage mine.
+I never gain, what Trojan town soe’er
+We ransack, half thy booty. The swift march
+And furious onset—these I largely reap,205
+But, distribution made, thy lot exceeds
+Mine far; while I, with any pittance pleased,
+Bear to my ships the little that I win
+After long battle, and account it much.
+But I am gone, I and my sable barks210
+(My wiser course) to Phthia, and I judge,
+Scorn’d as I am, that thou shalt hardly glean
+Without me, more than thou shalt soon consume.[16]
+He ceased, and Agamemnon thus replied
+Fly, and fly now; if in thy soul thou feel215
+Such ardor of desire to go—begone!
+I woo thee not to stay; stay not an hour
+On my behalf, for I have others here
+Who will respect me more, and above all
+All-judging Jove. There is not in the host220
+King or commander whom I hate as thee,
+For all thy pleasure is in strife and blood,
+And at all times; yet valor is no ground
+Whereon to boast, it is the gift of Heaven
+Go, get ye back to Phthia, thou and thine!225
+There rule thy Myrmidons.[17] I need not thee,
+Nor heed thy wrath a jot. But this I say,
+Sure as Apollo takes my lovely prize
+Chrysëis, and I shall return her home
+In mine own bark, and with my proper crew,230
+So sure the fair Brisëis shall be mine.
+I shall demand her even at thy tent.
+So shalt thou well be taught, how high in power
+I soar above thy pitch, and none shall dare
+Attempt, thenceforth, comparison with me.235
+He ended, and the big, disdainful heart
+Throbbed of Achilles; racking doubt ensued
+And sore perplex’d him, whether forcing wide
+A passage through them, with his blade unsheathed
+To lay Atrides breathless at his foot,240
+Or to command his stormy spirit down.
+So doubted he, and undecided yet
+Stood drawing forth his falchion huge; when lo!
+Down sent by Juno, to whom both alike
+Were dear, and who alike watched over both,245
+Pallas descended. At his back she stood
+To none apparent, save himself alone,
+And seized his golden locks. Startled, he turned,
+And instant knew Minerva. Flashed her eyes
+Terrific;[18] whom with accents on the wing250
+Of haste, incontinent he questioned thus.
+Daughter of Jove, why comest thou? that thyself
+May’st witness these affronts which I endure
+From Agamemnon? Surely as I speak,
+This moment, for his arrogance, he dies.255
+To whom the blue-eyed Deity. From heaven
+Mine errand is, to sooth, if thou wilt hear,
+Thine anger. Juno the white-arm’d alike
+To him and thee propitious, bade me down:
+Restrain thy wrath. Draw not thy falchion forth.260
+Retort, and sharply, and let that suffice.
+For I foretell thee true. Thou shalt receive,
+Some future day, thrice told, thy present loss
+For this day’s wrong. Cease, therefore, and be still.
+To whom Achilles. Goddess, although much265
+Exasperate, I dare not disregard
+Thy word, which to obey is always best.[19]
+Who hears the Gods, the Gods hear also him.
+He said; and on his silver hilt the force
+Of his broad hand impressing, sent the blade270
+Home to its rest, nor would the counsel scorn
+Of Pallas. She to heaven well-pleased return’d,
+And in the mansion of Jove Ægis[20]-armed
+Arriving, mingled with her kindred Gods.
+But though from violence, yet not from words275
+Abstained Achilles, but with bitter taunt
+Opprobrious, his antagonist reproached.
+Oh charged with wine, in steadfastness of face
+Dog unabashed, and yet at heart a deer!
+Thou never, when the troops have taken arms,280
+Hast dared to take thine also; never thou
+Associate with Achaia’s Chiefs, to form
+The secret ambush.[21] No. The sound of war
+Is as the voice of destiny to thee.
+Doubtless the course is safer far, to range285
+Our numerous host, and if a man have dared
+Dispute thy will, to rob him of his prize.
+King! over whom? Women and spiritless—
+Whom therefore thou devourest; else themselves
+Would stop that mouth that it should scoff no more.290
+But hearken. I shall swear a solemn oath.
+By this same sceptre,[22] which shall never bud,
+Nor boughs bring forth as once, which having left
+Its stock on the high mountains, at what time
+The woodman’s axe lopped off its foliage green,295
+And stript its bark, shall never grow again;
+Which now the judges of Achaia bear,
+Who under Jove, stand guardians of the laws,
+By this I swear (mark thou the sacred oath)
+Time shall be, when Achilles shall be missed;300
+When all shall want him, and thyself the power
+To help the Achaians, whatsoe’er thy will;
+When Hector at your heels shall mow you down:
+The Hero-slaughtering Hector! Then thy soul,
+Vexation-stung, shall tear thee with remorse,305
+That thou hast scorn’d, as he were nothing worth,
+A Chief, the soul and bulwark of your cause.
+So saying, he cast his sceptre on the ground
+Studded with gold, and sat. On the other side
+The son of Atreus all impassion’d stood,310
+When the harmonious orator arose
+Nestor, the Pylian oracle, whose lips
+Dropped eloquence—the honey not so sweet.
+Two generations past of mortals born
+In Pylus, coëtaneous with himself,315
+He govern’d now the third—amid them all
+He stood, and thus, benevolent, began.
+Ah! what calamity hath fall’n on Greece!
+Now Priam and his sons may well exult,
+Now all in Ilium shall have joy of heart320
+Abundant, hearing of this broil, the prime
+Of Greece between, in council and in arms.
+But be persuaded; ye are younger both
+Than I, and I was conversant of old
+With Princes your superiors, yet from them325
+No disrespect at any time received.
+Their equals saw I never; never shall;
+Exadius, Cœneus, and the Godlike son
+Of Ægeus, mighty Theseus; men renown’d
+For force superior to the race of man,330
+Brave Chiefs they were, and with brave foes they fought,
+With the rude dwellers on the mountain-heights
+The Centaurs,[23] whom with havoc such as fame
+Shall never cease to celebrate, they slew.
+With these men I consorted erst, what time335
+From Pylus, though a land from theirs remote,
+They called me forth, and such as was my strength,
+With all that strength I served them. Who is he?
+What Prince or Chief of the degenerate race
+Now seen on earth who might with these compare?340
+Yet even these would listen and conform
+To my advice in consultation given,
+Which hear ye also; for compliance proves
+Oft times the safer and the manlier course.
+Thou, Agamemnon! valiant as thou art,345
+Seize not the maid, his portion from the Greeks,
+But leave her his; nor thou, Achilles, strive
+With our imperial Chief; for never King
+Had equal honor at the hands of Jove
+With Agamemnon, or was throned so high.350
+Say thou art stronger, and art Goddess-born,
+How then? His territory passes thine,
+And he is Lord of thousands more than thou.
+Cease, therefore, Agamemnon; calm thy wrath;
+And it shall be mine office to entreat355
+Achilles also to a calm, whose might
+The chief munition is of all our host.
+To whom the sovereign of the Greeks replied,
+The son of Atreus. Thou hast spoken well,
+Old Chief, and wisely. But this wrangler here—360
+Nought will suffice him but the highest place:
+He must control us all, reign over all,
+Dictate to all; but he shall find at least
+One here, disposed to question his commands.
+If the eternal Gods have made him brave,365
+Derives he thence a privilege to rail?
+Whom thus Achilles interrupted fierce.
+Could I be found so abject as to take
+The measure of my doings at thy lips,
+Well might they call me coward through the camp,370
+A vassal, and a fellow of no worth.
+Give law to others. Think not to control
+Me, subject to thy proud commands no more.
+Hear yet again! And weigh what thou shalt hear.
+I will not strive with thee in such a cause,375
+Nor yet with any man; I scorn to fight
+For her, whom having given, ye take away.
+But I have other precious things on board;
+Of those take none away without my leave.
+Or if it please thee, put me to the proof380
+Before this whole assembly, and my spear
+Shall stream that moment, purpled with thy blood.
+Thus they long time in opposition fierce
+Maintained the war of words; and now, at length,
+(The grand consult dissolved,) Achilles walked385
+(Patroclus and the Myrmidons his steps
+Attending) to his camp and to his fleet.
+But Agamemnon order’d forth a bark,
+A swift one, manned with twice ten lusty rowers;
+He sent on board the Hecatomb:[24] he placed390
+Chrysëis with the blooming cheeks, himself,
+And to Ulysses gave the freight in charge.
+So all embarked, and plow’d their watery way.
+Atrides, next, bade purify the host;
+The host was purified, as he enjoin’d,395
+And the ablution cast into the sea.
+Then to Apollo, on the shore they slew,
+Of the untillable and barren deep,
+Whole Hecatombs of bulls and goats, whose steam
+Slowly in smoky volumes climbed the skies.400
+Thus was the camp employed; nor ceased the while
+The son of Atreus from his threats denounced
+At first against Achilles, but command
+Gave to Talthybius and Eurybates
+His heralds, ever faithful to his will.405
+Haste—Seek ye both the tent of Peleus’ son
+Achilles. Thence lead hither by the hand
+Blooming Brisëis, whom if he withhold,
+Not her alone, but other spoil myself
+Will take in person—He shall rue the hour.410
+With such harsh message charged he them dismissed
+They, sad and slow, beside the barren waste
+Of Ocean, to the galleys and the tents
+Moved of the Myrmidons. Him there they found
+Beneath the shadow of his bark reclined,415
+Nor glad at their approach. Trembling they stood,
+In presence of the royal Chief, awe-struck,
+Nor questioned him or spake. He not the less
+Knew well their embassy, and thus began.
+Ye heralds, messengers of Gods and men,420
+Hail, and draw near! I bid you welcome both.
+I blame not you; the fault is his alone
+Who sends you to conduct the damsel hence
+Brisëis. Go, Patroclus, generous friend!
+Lead forth, and to their guidance give the maid.425
+But be themselves my witnesses before
+The blessed Gods, before mankind, before
+The ruthless king, should want of me be felt
+To save the host from havoc[25]—Oh, his thoughts
+Are madness all; intelligence or skill,430
+Forecast or retrospect, how best the camp
+May be secured from inroad, none hath he.
+He ended, nor Patroclus disobey’d,
+But leading beautiful Brisëis forth
+Into their guidance gave her; loth she went435
+From whom she loved, and looking oft behind.
+Then wept Achilles, and apart from all,
+With eyes directed to the gloomy Deep
+And arms outstretch’d, his mother suppliant sought.
+Since, mother, though ordain’d so soon to die,440
+I am thy son, I might with cause expect
+Some honor at the Thunderer’s hands, but none
+To me he shows, whom Agamemnon, Chief
+Of the Achaians, hath himself disgraced,
+Seizing by violence my just reward.445
+So prayed he weeping, whom his mother heard
+Within the gulfs of Ocean where she sat
+Beside her ancient sire. From the gray flood
+Ascending sudden, like a mist she came,
+Sat down before him, stroked his face, and said.450
+Why weeps my son? and what is thy distress?
+Hide not a sorrow that I wish to share.
+To whom Achilles, sighing deep, replied.
+Why tell thee woes to thee already known?
+At Thebes, Eëtion’s city we arrived,455
+Smote, sack’d it, and brought all the spoil away.
+Just distribution made among the Greeks,
+The son of Atreus for his lot received
+Blooming Chrysëis. Her, Apollo’s priest
+Old Chryses followed to Achaia’s camp,460
+That he might loose his daughter. Ransom rich
+He brought, and in his hands the hallow’d wreath
+And golden sceptre of the Archer God
+Apollo, bore; to the whole Grecian host,
+But chiefly to the foremost in command465
+He sued, the sons of Atreus; then, the rest
+All recommended reverence of the Seer,
+And prompt acceptance of his costly gifts.
+But Agamemnon might not so be pleased,
+Who gave him rude dismission; he in wrath470
+Returning, prayed, whose prayer Apollo heard,
+For much he loved him. A pestiferous shaft
+He instant shot into the Grecian host,
+And heap’d the people died. His arrows swept
+The whole wide camp of Greece, till at the last475
+A Seer, by Phœbus taught, explain’d the cause.
+I first advised propitiation. Rage
+Fired Agamemnon. Rising, he denounced
+Vengeance, and hath fulfilled it. She, in truth,
+Is gone to Chrysa, and with her we send480
+Propitiation also to the King
+Shaft-arm’d Apollo. But my beauteous prize
+Brisëis, mine by the award of all,
+His heralds, at this moment, lead away.
+But thou, wherein thou canst, aid thy own son!485
+Haste hence to Heaven, and if thy word or deed
+Hath ever gratified the heart of Jove,
+With earnest suit press him on my behalf.
+For I, not seldom, in my father’s hall
+Have heard thee boasting, how when once the Gods,490
+With Juno, Neptune, Pallas at their head,
+Conspired to bind the Thunderer, thou didst loose
+His bands, O Goddess! calling to his aid
+The Hundred-handed warrior, by the Gods
+Briareus, but by men, Ægeon named.[26]495
+For he in prowess and in might surpassed
+His father Neptune, who, enthroned sublime,
+Sits second only to Saturnian Jove,
+Elate with glory and joy. Him all the Gods
+Fearing from that bold enterprise abstained.500
+Now, therefore, of these things reminding Jove,
+Embrace his knees; entreat him that he give
+The host of Troy his succor, and shut fast
+The routed Grecians, prisoners in the fleet,
+That all may find much solace[27] in their King,505
+And that the mighty sovereign o’er them all,
+Their Agamemnon, may himself be taught
+His rashness, who hath thus dishonor’d foul
+The life itself, and bulwark of his cause.
+To him, with streaming eyes, Thetis replied.510
+Born as thou wast to sorrow, ah, my son!
+Why have I rear’d thee! Would that without tears,
+Or cause for tears (transient as is thy life,
+A little span) thy days might pass at Troy!
+But short and sorrowful the fates ordain515
+Thy life, peculiar trouble must be thine,
+Whom, therefore, oh that I had never borne!
+But seeking the Olympian hill snow-crown’d,
+I will myself plead for thee in the ear
+Of Jove, the Thunderer. Meantime at thy fleet520
+Abiding, let thy wrath against the Greeks
+Still burn, and altogether cease from war.
+For to the banks of the Oceanus,[28]
+Where Æthiopia holds a feast to Jove,[29]
+He journey’d yesterday, with whom the Gods525
+Went also, and the twelfth day brings them home.
+Then will I to his brazen-floor’d abode,
+That I may clasp his knees, and much misdeem
+Of my endeavor, or my prayer shall speed.
+So saying, she went; but him she left enraged530
+For fair Brisëis’ sake, forced from his arms
+By stress of power. Meantime Ulysses came
+To Chrysa with the Hecatomb in charge.
+Arrived within the haven[30] deep, their sails
+Furling, they stowed them in the bark below.535
+Then by its tackle lowering swift the mast
+Into its crutch, they briskly push’d to land,
+Heaved anchors out, and moor’d the vessel fast.
+Forth came the mariners, and trod the beach;
+Forth came the victims of Apollo next,540
+And, last, Chrysëis. Her Ulysses led
+Toward the altar, gave her to the arms
+Of her own father, and him thus address’d.
+O Chryses! Agamemnon, King of men,
+Hath sent thy daughter home, with whom we bring545
+A Hecatomb on all our host’s behalf
+To Phœbus, hoping to appease the God
+By whose dread shafts the Argives now expire.
+So saying, he gave her to him, who with joy
+Received his daughter. Then, before the shrine550
+Magnificent in order due they ranged
+The noble Hecatomb.[31] Each laved his hands
+And took the salted meal, and Chryses made
+His fervent prayer with hands upraised on high.
+God of the silver bow, who with thy power555
+Encirclest Chrysa, and who reign’st supreme
+In Tenedos, and Cilla the divine!
+Thou prov’dst propitious to my first request,
+Hast honor’d me, and punish’d sore the Greeks;
+Hear yet thy servant’s prayer; take from their host560
+At once the loathsome pestilence away!
+So Chryses prayed, whom Phœbus heard well-pleased;
+Then prayed the Grecians also, and with meal
+Sprinkling the victims, their retracted necks
+First pierced, then flay’d them; the disjointed thighs565
+They, next, invested with the double caul,
+Which with crude slices thin they overspread.
+The priest burned incense, and libation poured
+Large on the hissing brands, while, him beside,
+Busy with spit and prong, stood many a youth570
+Trained to the task. The thighs with fire consumed,
+They gave to each his portion of the maw,
+Then slashed the remnant, pierced it with the spits,
+And managing with culinary skill
+The roast, withdrew it from the spits again.575
+Their whole task thus accomplish’d, and the board
+Set forth, they feasted, and were all sufficed.
+When neither hunger more nor thirst remained
+Unsatisfied, boys crown’d the beakers high
+With wine delicious, and from right to left580
+Distributing the cups, served every guest.
+Thenceforth the youths of the Achaian race
+To song propitiatory gave the day,
+Pæans[32] to Phœbus, Archer of the skies,
+Chaunting melodious. Pleased, Apollo heard.585
+But, when, the sun descending, darkness fell,
+They on the beach beside their hawsers slept;
+And, when the day-spring’s daughter rosy-palm’d
+Aurora look’d abroad, then back they steer’d
+To the vast camp. Fair wind, and blowing fresh,590
+Apollo sent them; quick they rear’d the mast,
+Then spread the unsullied canvas to the gale,
+And the wind filled it. Roared the sable flood
+Around the bark, that ever as she went
+Dash’d wide the brine, and scudded swift away.595
+Thus reaching soon the spacious camp of Greece,
+Their galley they updrew sheer o’er the sands
+From the rude surge remote, then propp’d her sides
+With scantlings long,[33] and sought their several tents.
+But Peleus’ noble son, the speed-renown’d600
+Achilles, he, his well-built bark beside,
+Consumed his hours, nor would in council more,
+Where wise men win distinction, or in fight
+Appear, to sorrow and heart-withering wo
+Abandon’d; though for battle, ardent, still605
+He panted, and the shout-resounding field.
+But when the twelfth fair morrow streak’d the East,
+Then all the everlasting Gods to Heaven
+Resorted, with the Thunderer at their head,
+And Thetis, not unmindful of her son,610
+Prom the salt flood emerged, seeking betimes
+Olympus and the boundless fields of heaven.
+High, on the topmost eminence sublime
+Of the deep-fork’d Olympian she perceived
+The Thunderer seated, from the Gods apart.615
+She sat before him, clasp’d with her left hand
+His knees, her right beneath his chin she placed,
+And thus the King, Saturnian Jove, implored.
+Father of all, by all that I have done
+Or said that ever pleased thee, grant my suit.620
+Exalt my son, by destiny short-lived
+Beyond the lot of others. Him with shame
+The King of men hath overwhelm’d, by force
+Usurping his just meed; thou, therefore, Jove,
+Supreme in wisdom, honor him, and give625
+Success to Troy, till all Achaia’s sons
+Shall yield him honor more than he hath lost!
+She spake, to whom the Thunderer nought replied,
+But silent sat long time. She, as her hand
+Had grown there, still importunate, his knees630
+Clasp’d as at first, and thus her suit renew’d.[34]
+Or grant my prayer, and ratify the grant,
+Or send me hence (for thou hast none to fear)
+Plainly refused; that I may know and feel
+By how much I am least of all in heaven.635
+To whom the cloud-assembler at the last
+Spake, deep-distress’d. Hard task and full of strife
+Thou hast enjoined me; Juno will not spare
+For gibe and taunt injurious, whose complaint
+Sounds daily in the ears of all the Gods,640
+That I assist the Trojans; but depart,
+Lest she observe thee; my concern shall be
+How best I may perform thy full desire.
+And to assure thee more, I give the sign
+Indubitable, which all fear expels645
+At once from heavenly minds. Nought, so confirmed,
+May, after, be reversed or render’d vain.
+He ceased, and under his dark brows the nod
+Vouchsafed of confirmation. All around
+The Sovereign’s everlasting head his curls650
+Ambrosial shook,[35] and the huge mountain reeled.
+Their conference closed, they parted. She, at once,
+From bright Olympus plunged into the flood
+Profound, and Jove to his own courts withdrew.
+Together all the Gods, at his approach,655
+Uprose; none sat expectant till he came,
+But all advanced to meet the Eternal Sire.
+So on his throne he sat. Nor Juno him
+Not understood; she, watchful, had observed,
+In consultation close with Jove engaged660
+Thetis, bright-footed daughter of the deep,
+And keen the son of Saturn thus reproved.
+Shrewd as thou art, who now hath had thine ear?
+Thy joy is ever such, from me apart
+To plan and plot clandestine, and thy thoughts,665
+Think what thou may’st, are always barred to me.
+To whom the father, thus, of heaven and earth.
+Expect not, Juno, that thou shalt partake
+My counsels at all times, which oft in height
+And depth, thy comprehension far exceed,670
+Jove’s consort as thou art. When aught occurs
+Meet for thine ear, to none will I impart
+Of Gods or men more free than to thyself.
+But for my secret thoughts, which I withhold
+From all in heaven beside, them search not thou675
+With irksome curiosity and vain.
+
+Him answer’d then the Goddess ample-eyed.[36]
+What word hath passed thy lips, Saturnian Jove,
+Thou most severe! I never search thy thoughts,
+Nor the serenity of thy profound680
+Intentions trouble; they are safe from me:
+But now there seems a cause. Deeply I dread
+Lest Thetis, silver-footed daughter fair
+Of Ocean’s hoary Sovereign, here arrived
+At early dawn to practise on thee, Jove!685
+I noticed her a suitress at thy knees,
+And much misdeem or promise-bound thou stand’st
+To Thetis past recall, to exalt her son,
+And Greeks to slaughter thousands at the ships.
+To whom the cloud-assembler God, incensed.690
+Ah subtle! ever teeming with surmise,
+And fathomer of my concealed designs,
+Thy toil is vain, or (which is worse for thee,)
+Shall but estrange thee from mine heart the more.
+And be it as thou sayest,—I am well pleased695
+That so it should be. Be advised, desist,
+Hold thou thy peace. Else, if my glorious hands
+Once reach thee, the Olympian Powers combined
+To rescue thee, shall interfere in vain.
+He said,—whom Juno, awful Goddess, heard700
+Appall’d, and mute submitted to his will.
+But through the courts of Jove the heavenly Powers
+All felt displeasure; when to them arose
+Vulcan, illustrious artist, who with speech
+Conciliatory interposed to sooth705
+His white-armed mother Juno, Goddess dread.
+Hard doom is ours, and not to be endured,
+If feast and merriment must pause in heaven
+While ye such clamor raise tumultuous here
+For man’s unworthy sake: yet thus we speed710
+Ever, when evil overpoises good.
+But I exhort my mother, though herself
+Already warn’d, that meekly she submit
+To Jove our father, lest our father chide
+More roughly, and confusion mar the feast.715
+For the Olympian Thunderer could with ease
+Us from our thrones precipitate, so far
+He reigns to all superior. Seek to assuage
+His anger therefore; so shall he with smiles
+Cheer thee, nor thee alone, but all in heaven.720
+So Vulcan, and, upstarting, placed a cup
+Full-charged between his mother’s hands, and said,
+My mother, be advised, and, though aggrieved,
+Yet patient; lest I see thee whom I love
+So dear, with stripes chastised before my face,725
+Willing, but impotent to give thee aid.[37]
+Who can resist the Thunderer? Me, when once
+I flew to save thee, by the foot he seized
+And hurl’d me through the portal of the skies.
+“From morn to eve I fell, a summer’s day,”730
+And dropped, at last, in Lemnos. There half-dead
+The Sintians found me, and with succor prompt
+And hospitable, entertained me fallen.
+So He; then Juno smiled, Goddess white-arm’d,
+And smiling still, from his unwonted hand[38]735
+Received the goblet. He from right to left
+Rich nectar from the beaker drawn, alert
+Distributed to all the powers divine.
+Heaven rang with laughter inextinguishable
+Peal after peal, such pleasure all conceived740
+At sight of Vulcan in his new employ.
+So spent they in festivity the day,
+And all were cheered; nor was Apollo’s harp
+Silent, nor did the Muses spare to add
+Responsive melody of vocal sweets.745
+But when the sun’s bright orb had now declined,
+Each to his mansion, wheresoever built
+By the lame matchless Architect, withdrew.[39]
+Jove also, kindler of the fires of heaven,
+His couch ascending as at other times750
+When gentle sleep approach’d him, slept serene,
+With golden-sceptred Juno at his side.
+
+
+The first book contains the preliminaries to the commencement of
+serious action. First, the visit of the priest of Apollo to ransom his
+captive daughter, the refusal of Agamemnon to yield her up, and the
+pestilence sent by the god upon the Grecian army in consequence.
+Secondly, the restoration, the propitiation of Apollo, the quarrel of
+Agamemnon and Achilles, and the withdrawing of the latter from the
+Grecian army. Thirdly, the intercession of Thetis with Jupiter; his
+promise, unwillingly given, to avenge Achilles; and the assembly of the
+gods, in which the promise is angrily alluded to by Juno, and the
+discussion peremptorily checked by Jupiter. The poet, throughout this
+book, maintains a simple, unadorned style, but highly descriptive, and
+happily adapted to the nature of the subject.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK II.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE SECOND BOOK.
+
+Jupiter, in pursuance of his purpose to distress the Grecians in answer
+to the prayer of Thetis, deceives Agamemnon by a dream. He, in
+consequence of it, calls a council, the result of which is that the
+army shall go forth to battle. Thersites is mutinous, and is chastised
+by Ulysses. Ulysses, Nestor, and Agamemnon, harangue the people; and
+preparation is made for battle. An exact account follows of the forces
+on both sides.
+
+
+BOOK II.
+
+
+[1]All night both Gods and Chiefs equestrian slept,
+But not the Sire of all. He, waking soon,
+Mused how to exalt Achilles, and destroy
+No few in battle at the Grecian fleet.
+This counsel, at the last, as best he chose5
+And likeliest; to dispatch an evil Dream
+To Agamemnon’s tent, and to his side
+The phantom summoning, him thus addressed.
+Haste, evil Dream! Fly to the Grecian fleet,
+And, entering royal Agamemnon’s tent,10
+His ear possess thou thus, omitting nought
+Of all that I enjoin thee. Bid him arm
+His universal host, for that the time
+When the Achaians shall at length possess
+Wide Ilium, hath arrived. The Gods above15
+No longer dwell at variance. The request
+Of Juno hath prevail’d; now, wo to Troy!
+So charged, the Dream departed. At the ships
+Well-built arriving of Achaia’s host,
+He Agamemnon, son of Atreus, sought.20
+Him sleeping in his tent he found, immersed
+In soft repose ambrosial. At his head
+The shadow stood, similitude exact
+Of Nestor, son of Neleus; sage, with whom
+In Agamemnon’s thought might none compare.25
+His form assumed, the sacred Dream began.
+Oh son of Atreus the renown’d in arms
+And in the race! Sleep’st thou? It ill behoves
+To sleep all night the man of high employ,
+And charged, as thou art, with a people’s care.30
+Now, therefore, mark me well, who, sent from Jove,
+Inform thee, that although so far remote,
+He yet compassionates and thinks on thee
+With kind solicitude. He bids thee arm
+Thy universal host, for that the time35
+When the Achaians shall at length possess
+Wide Ilium, hath arrived. The Gods above
+No longer dwell at variance. The requests
+Of Juno have prevail’d. Now, wo to Troy
+From Jove himself! Her fate is on the wing.40
+Awaking from thy dewy slumbers, hold
+In firm remembrance all that thou hast heard.
+So spake the Dream, and vanishing, him left
+In false hopes occupied and musings vain.
+Full sure he thought, ignorant of the plan45
+By Jove design’d, that day the last of Troy.
+Fond thought! For toils and agonies to Greeks
+And Trojans both, in many a bloody field
+To be endured, the Thunderer yet ordain’d.
+Starting he woke, and seeming still to hear50
+The warning voice divine, with hasty leap
+Sprang from his bed, and sat.[2] His fleecy vest
+New-woven he put on, and mantle wide;
+His sandals fair to his unsullied feet
+He braced, and slung his argent-studded sword.55
+Then, incorruptible for evermore
+The sceptre of his sires he took, with which
+He issued forth into the camp of Greece.
+Aurora now on the Olympian heights
+Proclaiming stood new day to all in heaven,60
+When he his clear-voiced heralds bade convene
+The Greeks in council. Went the summons forth
+Into all quarters, and the throng began.
+First, at the ship of Nestor, Pylian King,[3]
+The senior Chiefs for high exploits renown’d65
+He gather’d, whom he prudent thus address’d.
+My fellow warriors, hear! A dream from heaven,
+Amid the stillness of the vacant night
+Approach’d me, semblance close in stature, bulk,
+And air, of noble Nestor. At mine head70
+The shadow took his stand, and thus he spake.
+Oh son of Atreus the renown’d in arms
+And in the race, sleep’st thou? It ill behoves
+To sleep all night the man of high employ,
+And charged as thou art with a people’s care.75
+Now, therefore, mark me well, who, sent from Jove,
+Inform thee, that although so far remote,
+He yet compassionates and thinks on thee
+With kind solicitude. He bids thee arm
+Thy universal host; for that the time80
+When the Achaians shall at length possess
+Wide Ilium, hath arrived. The Gods above
+No longer dwell at variance. The requests
+Of Juno have prevail’d. Now, wo to Troy
+From Jove himself! Her fate is on the wing.85
+Charge this on thy remembrance. Thus he spake,
+Then vanished suddenly, and I awoke.
+Haste therefore, let us arm, if arm we may,[4]
+The warlike sons of Greece; but first, myself
+Will prove them, recommending instant flight90
+With all our ships, and ye throughout the host
+Dispersed, shall, next, encourage all to stay.
+He ceased, and sat; when in the midst arose
+Of highest fame for wisdom, Nestor, King
+Of sandy Pylus, who them thus bespake.95
+Friends, Counsellors, and Leaders of the Greeks!
+Had any meaner Argive told his dream,
+We had pronounced it false, and should the more
+Have shrunk from battle; but the dream is his
+Who boasts himself our highest in command.100
+Haste, arm we, if we may, the sons of Greece.
+So saying, he left the council; him, at once
+The sceptred Chiefs, obedient to his voice,
+Arising, follow’d; and the throng began.
+As from the hollow rock bees stream abroad,105
+And in succession endless seek the fields,
+Now clustering, and now scattered far and near,
+In spring-time, among all the new-blown flowers,
+So they to council swarm’d, troop after troop,
+Grecians of every tribe, from camp and fleet110
+Assembling orderly o’er all the plain
+Beside the shore of Ocean. In the midst
+A kindling rumor, messenger of Jove,
+Impell’d them, and they went. Loud was the din
+Of the assembling thousands; groan’d the earth115
+When down they sat, and murmurs ran around.
+Nine heralds cried aloud—Will ye restrain
+Your clamors, that your heaven-taught Kings may speak?
+Scarce were they settled, and the clang had ceased,
+When Agamemnon, sovereign o’er them all,120
+Sceptre in hand, arose. (That sceptre erst
+Vulcan with labor forged, and to the hand
+Consign’d it of the King, Saturnian Jove;
+Jove to the vanquisher[5] of Ino’s[6] guard,
+And he to Pelops; Pelops in his turn,125
+To royal Atreus; Atreus at his death
+Bequeath’d it to Thyestes rich in flocks,
+And rich Thyestes left it to be borne
+By Agamemnon, symbol of his right
+To empire over Argos and her isles)130
+On that he lean’d, and rapid, thus began.[7]
+Friends, Grecian Heroes, ministers of Mars!
+Ye see me here entangled in the snares
+Of unpropitious Jove. He promised once,
+And with a nod confirm’d it, that with spoils135
+Of Ilium laden, we should hence return;
+But now, devising ill, he sends me shamed,
+And with diminished numbers, home to Greece.
+So stands his sovereign pleasure, who hath laid
+The bulwarks of full many a city low,140
+And more shall level, matchless in his might.
+That such a numerous host of Greeks as we,
+Warring with fewer than ourselves, should find
+No fruit of all our toil, (and none appears)
+Will make us vile with ages yet to come.145
+For should we now strike truce, till Greece and Troy
+Might number each her own, and were the Greeks
+Distributed in bands, ten Greeks in each,
+Our banded decads should exceed so far
+Their units, that all Troy could not supply150
+For every ten, a man, to fill us wine;
+So far the Achaians, in my thought, surpass
+The native Trojans. But in Troy are those
+Who baffle much my purpose; aids derived
+From other states, spear-arm’d auxiliars, firm155
+In the defence of Ilium’s lofty towers.
+Nine years have passed us over, nine long years;
+Our ships are rotted, and our tackle marr’d,
+And all our wives and little-ones at home
+Sit watching our return, while this attempt160
+Hangs still in doubt, for which that home we left.
+Accept ye then my counsel. Fly we swift
+With all our fleet back to our native land,
+Hopeless of Troy, not yet to be subdued.
+So spake the King, whom all the concourse heard165
+With minds in tumult toss’d; all, save the few,
+Partners of his intent. Commotion shook
+The whole assembly, such as heaves the flood
+Of the Icarian Deep, when South and East
+Burst forth together from the clouds of Jove.170
+And as when vehement the West-wind falls
+On standing corn mature, the loaded ears
+Innumerable bow before the gale,
+So was the council shaken. With a shout
+All flew toward the ships; uprais’d, the dust175
+Stood o’er them; universal was the cry,
+“Now clear the passages, strike down the props,
+Set every vessel free, launch, and away!”
+Heaven rang with exclamation of the host
+All homeward bent, and launching glad the fleet.180
+Then baffled Fate had the Achaians seen
+Returning premature, but Juno thus,
+With admonition quick to Pallas spake.
+Unconquer’d daughter of Jove Ægis-arm’d!
+Ah foul dishonor! Is it thus at last185
+That the Achaians on the billows borne,
+Shall seek again their country, leaving here,
+To be the vaunt of Ilium and her King,
+Helen of Argos, in whose cause the Greeks
+Have numerous perish’d from their home remote?190
+Haste! Seek the mail-arm’d multitude, by force
+Detain them of thy soothing speech, ere yet
+All launch their oary barks into the flood.
+She spake, nor did Minerva not comply,
+But darting swift from the Olympian heights,195
+Reach’d soon Achaia’s fleet. There, she perceived
+Prudent as Jove himself, Ulysses; firm
+He stood; he touch’d not even with his hand
+His sable bark, for sorrow whelm’d his soul.
+The Athenæan Goddess azure-eyed200
+Beside him stood, and thus the Chief bespake.
+Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!
+Why seek ye, thus precipitate, your ships?
+Intend ye flight? And is it thus at last,
+That the Achaians on the billows borne,205
+Shall seek again their country, leaving here,
+To be the vaunt of Ilium and her King,
+Helen of Argos, in whose cause the Greeks
+Have numerous perish’d from their home remote?
+Delay not. Rush into the throng; by force210
+Detain them of thy soothing speech, ere yet
+All launch their oary barks into the flood.
+She ceased, whom by her voice Ulysses knew,
+Casting his mantle from him, which his friend
+Eurybates the Ithacensian caught,215
+He ran; and in his course meeting the son
+Of Atreus, Agamemnon, from his hand
+The everlasting sceptre quick received,
+Which bearing, through Achaia’s fleet he pass’d.
+What King soever, or distinguish’d Greek220
+He found, approaching to his side, in terms
+Of gentle sort he stay’d him. Sir, he cried,
+It is unseemly that a man renown’d
+As thou, should tremble. Go—Resume the seat
+Which thou hast left, and bid the people sit.225
+Thou know’st not clearly yet the monarch’s mind.
+He proves us now, but soon he will chastize.
+All were not present; few of us have heard
+His speech this day in council. Oh, beware,
+Lest in resentment of this hasty course230
+Irregular, he let his anger loose.
+Dread is the anger of a King; he reigns
+By Jove’s own ordinance, and is dear to Jove,
+But what plebeian base soe’er he heard
+Stretching his throat to swell the general cry,235
+He laid the sceptre smartly on his back,
+With reprimand severe. Fellow, he said,
+Sit still; hear others; thy superiors hear.
+For who art thou? A dastard and a drone,
+Of none account in council, or in arms.240
+By no means may we all alike bear sway
+At Ilium; such plurality of Kings
+Were evil. One suffices. One, to whom
+The son of politic Saturn hath assign’d
+The sceptre, and inforcement of the laws,245
+That he may rule us as a monarch ought.[8]
+With such authority the troubled host
+He sway’d; they, quitting camp and fleet again
+Rush’d back to council; deafening was the sound
+As when a billow of the boisterous deep250
+Some broad beach dashes, and the Ocean roars.
+The host all seated, and the benches fill’d,
+Thersites only of loquacious tongue
+Ungovern’d, clamor’d mutinous; a wretch
+Of utterance prompt, but in coarse phrase obscene255
+Deep learn’d alone, with which to slander Kings.
+Might he but set the rabble in a roar,
+He cared not with what jest; of all from Greece
+To Ilium sent, his country’s chief reproach.
+Cross-eyed he was, and halting moved on legs260
+Ill-pair’d; his gibbous shoulders o’er his breast
+Contracted, pinch’d it; to a peak his head
+Was moulded sharp, and sprinkled thin with hair
+Of starveling length, flimsy and soft as down.
+Achilles and Ulysses had incurr’d265
+Most his aversion; them he never spared;
+But now, imperial Agamemnon self
+In piercing accents stridulous he charged
+With foul reproach. The Grecians with contempt
+Listen’d, and indignation, while with voice270
+At highest pitch, he thus the monarch mock’d.
+What wouldst thou now? Whereof is thy complaint
+Now, Agamemnon? Thou hast fill’d thy tents
+With treasure, and the Grecians, when they take
+A city, choose the loveliest girls for thee.275
+Is gold thy wish? More gold? A ransom brought
+By some chief Trojan for his son’s release
+Whom I, or other valiant Greek may bind?
+Or wouldst thou yet a virgin, one, by right
+Another’s claim, but made by force thine own?280
+It was not well, great Sir, that thou shouldst bring
+A plague on the Achaians, as of late.
+But come, my Grecian sisters, soldiers named
+Unfitly, of a sex too soft for war,
+Come, let us homeward: let him here digest285
+What he shall gorge, alone; that he may learn
+If our assistance profit him or not.
+For when he shamed Achilles, he disgraced
+A Chief far worthier than himself, whose prize
+He now withholds. But tush,—Achilles lacks290
+Himself the spirit of a man; no gall
+Hath he within him, or his hand long since
+Had stopp’d that mouth,[9] that it should scoff no more.
+Thus, mocking royal Agamemnon, spake
+Thersites. Instant starting to his side, 295
+Noble Ulysses with indignant brows
+Survey’d him, and him thus reproved severe.
+
+Thersites! Railer!—peace. Think not thyself,
+Although thus eloquent, alone exempt
+From obligation not to slander Kings.300
+I deem thee most contemptible, the worst
+Of Agamemnon’s followers to the war;
+Presume not then to take the names revered
+Of Sovereigns on thy sordid lips, to asperse
+Their sacred character, and to appoint305
+The Greeks a time when they shall voyage home.
+How soon, how late, with what success at last
+We shall return, we know not: but because
+Achaia’s heroes numerous spoils allot
+To Agamemnon, Leader of the host,310
+Thou therefore from thy seat revilest the King.
+But mark me. If I find thee, as even now,
+Raving and foaming at the lips again,
+May never man behold Ulysses’ head
+On these my shoulders more, and may my son315
+Prove the begotten of another Sire,
+If I not strip thee to that hide of thine
+As bare as thou wast born, and whip thee hence
+Home to thy galley, sniveling like a boy.
+He ceased, and with his sceptre on the back320
+And shoulders smote him. Writhing to and fro,
+He wept profuse, while many a bloody whelk
+Protuberant beneath the sceptre sprang.
+Awe-quell’d he sat, and from his visage mean,
+Deep-sighing, wiped the rheums. It was no time325
+For mirth, yet mirth illumined every face,
+And laughing, thus they spake. A thousand acts
+Illustrious, both by well-concerted plans
+And prudent disposition of the host
+Ulysses hath achieved, but this by far330
+Transcends his former praise, that he hath quell’d
+Such contumelious rhetoric profuse.
+The valiant talker shall not soon, we judge,
+Take liberties with royal names again.[10]
+So spake the multitude. Then, stretching forth335
+The sceptre, city-spoiler Chief, arose
+Ulysses. Him beside, herald in form,
+Appeared Minerva. Silence she enjoined
+To all, that all Achaia’s sons might hear,
+Foremost and rearmost, and might weigh his words.340
+He then his counsel, prudent, thus proposed.
+Atrides! Monarch! The Achaians seek
+To make thee ignominious above all
+In sight of all mankind. None recollects
+His promise more in steed-famed Argos pledged,345
+Here to abide till Ilium wall’d to heaven
+Should vanquish’d sink, and all her wealth be ours.
+No—now, like widow’d women, or weak boys,
+They whimper to each other, wishing home.
+And home, I grant, to the afflicted soul350
+Seems pleasant.[11] The poor seaman from his wife
+One month detain’d, cheerless his ship and sad
+Possesses, by the force of wintry blasts,
+And by the billows of the troubled deep
+Fast lock’d in port. But us the ninth long year355
+Revolving, finds camp’d under Ilium still.
+I therefore blame not, if they mourn beside
+Their sable barks, the Grecians. Yet the shame
+That must attend us after absence long
+Returning unsuccessful, who can bear?360
+Be patient, friends! wait only till we learn
+If Calchas truly prophesied, or not;
+For well we know, and I to all appeal,
+Whom Fate hath not already snatch’d away,
+(It seems but yesterday, or at the most365
+A day or two before) that when the ships
+Wo-fraught for Priam, and the race of Troy,
+At Aulis met, and we beside the fount
+With perfect hecatombs the Gods adored
+Beneath the plane-tree, from whose root a stream370
+Ran crystal-clear, there we beheld a sign
+Wonderful in all eyes. A serpent huge,
+Tremendous spectacle! with crimson spots
+His back all dappled, by Olympian Jove
+Himself protruded, from the altar’s foot375
+Slipp’d into light, and glided to the tree.
+There on the topmost bough, close-cover’d sat
+With foliage broad, eight sparrows, younglings all,
+Then newly feather’d, with their dam, the ninth.
+The little ones lamenting shrill he gorged,380
+While, wheeling o’er his head, with screams the dam
+Bewail’d her darling brood. Her also next,
+Hovering and clamoring, he by the wing
+Within his spiry folds drew, and devoured.
+All eaten thus, the nestlings and the dam,385
+The God who sent him, signalized him too,
+For him Saturnian Jove transform’d to stone.
+We wondering stood, to see that strange portent
+Intrude itself into our holy rites,
+When Calchas, instant, thus the sign explain’d.390
+Why stand ye, Greeks, astonish’d? Ye behold
+A prodigy by Jove himself produced,
+An omen, whose accomplishment indeed
+Is distant, but whose fame shall never die.[12]
+E’en as this serpent in your sight devour’d395
+Eight youngling sparrows, with their dam, the ninth,
+So we nine years must war on yonder plain,
+And in the tenth, wide-bulwark’d Troy is ours.
+So spake the seer, and as he spake, is done.
+Wait, therefore, brave Achaians! go not hence400
+Till Priam’s spacious city be your prize.
+He ceased, and such a shout ensued, that all
+The hollow ships the deafening roar return’d
+Of acclamation, every voice the speech
+Extolling of Ulysses, glorious Chief.405
+Then Nestor the Gerenian,[13] warrior old,
+Arising, spake; and, by the Gods, he said,
+Ye more resemble children inexpert
+In war, than disciplined and prudent men.
+Where now are all your promises and vows,410
+Councils, libations, right-hand covenants?[14]
+Burn them, since all our occupation here
+Is to debate and wrangle, whereof end
+Or fruit though long we wait, shall none be found.
+But, Sovereign, be not thou appall’d. Be firm.415
+Relax not aught of thine accustomed sway,
+But set the battle forth as thou art wont.
+And if there be a Grecian, here and there,
+One,[15] adverse to the general voice, let such
+Wither alone. He shall not see his wish420
+Gratified, neither will we hence return
+To Argos, ere events shall yet have proved
+Jove’s promise false or true. For when we climb’d
+Our gallant barks full-charged with Ilium’s fate,
+Saturnian Jove omnipotent, that day,425
+(Omen propitious!) thunder’d on the right.
+Let no man therefore pant for home, till each
+Possess a Trojan spouse, and from her lips
+Take sweet revenge for Helen’s pangs of heart.
+Who then? What soldier languishes and sighs430
+To leave us? Let him dare to lay his hand
+On his own vessel, and he dies the first.
+But hear, O King! I shall suggest a course
+Not trivial. Agamemnon! sort the Greeks
+By districts and by tribes, that tribe may tribe435
+Support, and each his fellow. This performed,
+And with consent of all, thou shalt discern
+With ease what Chief, what private man deserts,
+And who performs his part. The base, the brave,
+Such disposition made, shall both appear;440
+And thou shalt also know, if heaven or we,
+The Gods, or our supineness, succor Troy.
+To whom Atrides, King of men, replied.
+Old Chief! Thou passest all Achaia’s sons
+In consultation; would to Jove our Sire,445
+To Athenæan Pallas, and Apollo!
+That I had ten such coadjutors, wise
+As thou art, and the royal city soon
+Of Priam, with her wealth, should all be ours.[16]
+But me the son of Saturn, Jove supreme450
+Himself afflicts, who in contentious broils
+Involves me, and in altercation vain.
+Thence all that wordy tempest for a girl
+Achilles and myself between, and I
+The fierce aggressor. Be that breach but heal’d!455
+And Troy’s reprieve thenceforth is at an end.
+Go—take refreshment now that we may march
+Forth to our enemies. Let each whet well
+His spear, brace well his shield, well feed his brisk
+High-mettled horses, well survey and search460
+His chariot on all sides, that no defect
+Disgrace his bright habiliments of war.
+So will we give the day from morn to eve
+To dreadful battle. Pause there shall be none
+Till night divide us. Every buckler’s thong465
+Shall sweat on the toil’d bosom, every hand
+That shakes the spear shall ache, and every steed
+Shall smoke that whirls the chariot o’er the plain.
+Wo then to whom I shall discover here
+Loitering among the tents; let him escape470
+My vengeance if he can. The vulture’s maw
+Shall have his carcase, and the dogs his bones.
+He spake; whom all applauded with a shout
+Loud as against some headland cliff the waves
+Roll’d by the stormy South o’er rocks that shoot475
+Afar into the deep, which in all winds
+The flood still overspreads, blow whence they may.
+Arising, forth they rush’d, among the ships
+All scatter’d; smoke from every tent arose,
+The host their food preparing; next, his God480
+Each man invoked (of the Immortals him
+Whom he preferr’d) with sacrifice and prayer
+For safe escape from danger and from death.
+But Agamemnon to Saturnian Jove
+Omnipotent, an ox of the fifth year485
+Full-flesh’d devoted, and the Princes call’d
+Noblest of all the Grecians to his feast.
+First, Nestor with Idomeneus the King,
+Then either Ajax, and the son he call’d
+Of Tydeus, with Ulysses sixth and last,490
+Jove’s peer in wisdom. Menelaus went,
+Heroic Chief! unbidden, for he knew
+His brother’s mind with weight of care oppress’d.
+The ox encircling, and their hands with meal
+Of consecration fill’d, the assembly stood,495
+When Agamemnon thus his prayer preferred.
+Almighty Father! Glorious above all!
+Cloud-girt, who dwell’st in heaven thy throne sublime,
+Let not the sun go down, till Priam’s roof
+Fall flat into the flames; till I shall burn500
+His gates with fire; till I shall hew away
+His hack’d and riven corslet from the breast
+Of Hector, and till numerous Chiefs, his friends,
+Around him, prone in dust, shall bite the ground.
+So prayed he, but with none effect, The God505
+Received his offering, but to double toil
+Doom’d them, and sorrow more than all the past.
+They then, the triturated barley grain
+First duly sprinkling, the sharp steel infix’d
+Deep in the victim’s neck reversed, then stripp’d510
+The carcase, and divided at their joint
+The thighs, which in the double caul involved
+They spread with slices crude, and burn’d with fire
+Ascending fierce from billets sere and dry.
+The spitted entrails next they o’er the coals515
+Suspended held. The thighs with fire consumed,
+They gave to each his portion of the maw,
+Then slash’d the remnant, pierced it with the spits,
+And managing with culinary skill
+The roast, withdrew it from the spits again.520
+Thus, all their task accomplished, and the board
+Set forth, they feasted, and were all sufficed.
+When neither hunger more nor thirst remain’d
+Unsatisfied, Gerenian Nestor spake.
+Atrides! Agamemnon! King of men!525
+No longer waste we time in useless words,
+Nor to a distant hour postpone the work
+To which heaven calls thee. Send thine heralds forth.
+Who shall convene the Achaians at the fleet,
+That we, the Chiefs assembled here, may range,530
+Together, the imbattled multitude,
+And edge their spirits for immediate fight.
+He spake, nor Agamemnon not complied.
+At once he bade his clear-voiced heralds call
+The Greeks to battle. They the summons loud535
+Gave forth, and at the sound the people throng’d.
+Then Agamemnon and the Kings of Greece
+Dispatchful drew them into order just,
+With whom Minerva azure-eyed advanced,
+The inestimable Ægis on her arm,540
+Immortal, unobnoxious to decay
+A hundred braids, close twisted, all of gold,
+Each valued at a hundred beeves,[17] around
+Dependent fringed it. She from side to side
+Her eyes cerulean rolled, infusing thirst545
+Of battle endless into every breast.
+War won them now, war sweeter now to each
+Than gales to waft them over ocean home.[18]
+As when devouring flames some forest seize
+On the high mountains, splendid from afar550
+The blaze appears, so, moving on the plain,
+The steel-clad host innumerous flash’d to heaven.
+And as a multitude of fowls in flocks
+Assembled various, geese, or cranes, or swans
+Lithe-neck’d, long hovering o’er Caÿster’s banks555
+On wanton plumes, successive on the mead
+Alight at last, and with a clang so loud
+That all the hollow vale of Asius rings;
+In number such from ships and tents effused,
+They cover’d the Scamandrian plain; the earth560
+Rebellow’d to the feet of steeds and men.
+They overspread Scamander’s grassy vale,
+Myriads, as leaves, or as the flowers of spring.
+As in the hovel where the peasant milks
+His kine in spring-time, when his pails are fill’d,565
+Thick clouds of humming insects on the wing
+Swarm all around him, so the Grecians swarm’d
+An unsumm’d multitude o’er all the plain,
+Bright arm’d, high crested, and athirst for war.
+As goat-herds separate their numerous flocks570
+With ease, though fed promiscuous, with like ease
+Their leaders them on every side reduced
+To martial order glorious;[19] among whom
+Stood Agamemnon “with an eye like Jove’s,
+To threaten or command,” like Mars in girth,575
+And with the port of Neptune. As the bull
+Conspicuous among all the herd appears,
+For he surpasses all, such Jove ordain’d
+That day the son of Atreus, in the midst
+Of Heroes, eminent above them all.580
+Tell me, (for ye are are heavenly, and beheld[20]
+A scene, whereof the faint report alone
+Hath reached our ears, remote and ill-informed,)
+Tell me, ye Muses, under whom, beneath
+What Chiefs of royal or of humbler note585
+Stood forth the embattled Greeks? The host at large;
+_They_ were a multitude in number more
+Than with ten tongues, and with ten mouths, each mouth
+Made vocal with a trumpet’s throat of brass
+I might declare, unless the Olympian nine,590
+Jove’s daughters, would the chronicle themselves
+Indite, of all assembled, under Troy.
+I will rehearse the Captains and their fleets.
+[21]Bœotia’s sturdy sons Peneleus led,
+And Leïtus, whose partners in command595
+Arcesilaus and Prothoenor came,
+And Clonius. Them the dwellers on the rocks
+Of Aulis followed, with the hardy clans
+Of Hyrie, Schoenos, Scholos, and the hills
+Of Eteon; Thespia, Græa, and the plains600
+Of Mycalessus them, and Harma served,
+Eleon, Erythræ, Peteon; Hyle them,
+Hesius and Ocalea, and the strength
+Of Medeon; Copæ also in their train
+Marched, with Eutresis and the mighty men605
+Of Thisbe famed for doves; nor pass unnamed
+Whom Coronæa, and the grassy land
+Of Haliartus added to the war,
+Nor whom Platæa, nor whom Glissa bred,
+And Hypothebæ,[22] and thy sacred groves610
+To Neptune, dark Onchestus. Arne claims
+A record next for her illustrious sons,
+Vine-bearing Arne. Thou wast also there
+Mideia, and thou Nissa; nor be thine
+Though last, Anthedon, a forgotten name.615
+These in Bœotia’s fair and gallant fleet
+Of fifty ships, each bearing o’er the waves
+Thrice forty warriors, had arrived at Troy.
+In thirty ships deep-laden with the brave,
+Aspledon and Orchomenos had sent620
+Their chosen youth; them ruled a noble pair,
+Sons of Astyoche; she, lovely nymph,
+Received by stealth, on Actor’s stately roof,
+The embraces of a God, and bore to Mars
+Twins like himself, Ascalaphus the bold,625
+And bold Iälmenus, expert in arms.
+Beneath Epistrophus and Schedius, took
+Their destined station on Bœotia’s left,
+The brave Phocensians; they in forty ships
+From Cyparissus came, and from the rocks630
+Of Python, and from Crissa the divine;
+From Anemoria, Daulis, Panopeus,
+And from Hyampolis, and from the banks
+Of the Cephissus, sacred stream, and from
+Lilæa, seated at its fountain-head.635
+Next from beyond Eubœa’s happy isle
+In forty ships conveyed, stood forth well armed
+The Locrians; dwellers in Augeia some
+The pleasant, some of Opoëis possessed,
+Some of Calliarus; these Scarpha sent,640
+And Cynus those; from Bessa came the rest,
+From Tarpha, Thronius, and from the brink
+Of loud Boagrius; Ajax them, the swift,
+Son of Oïleus led, not such as he
+From Telamon, big-boned and lofty built,645
+But small of limb, and of an humbler crest;
+Yet he, competitor had none throughout
+The Grecians of what land soe’er, for skill
+In ushering to its mark the rapid lance.
+Elphenor brought (Calchodon’s mighty son)650
+The Eubœans to the field. In forty ships
+From Histrïæa for her vintage famed,
+From Chalcis, from Iretria, from the gates
+Of maritime Cerinthus, from the heights
+Of Dios rock-built citadel sublime,655
+And from Caristus and from Styra came
+His warlike multitudes, all named alike
+Abantes, on whose shoulders fell behind
+Their locks profuse,[23] and they were eager all
+To split the hauberk with the pointed spear.660
+Nor Athens had withheld her generous sons,
+The people of Erectheus. Him of old
+The teeming glebe produced, a wondrous birth!
+And Pallas rear’d him: her own unctuous fane
+She made his habitation, where with bulls665
+The youth of Athens, and with slaughter’d lambs
+Her annual worship celebrate. Then led
+Menestheus, whom, (sage Nestor’s self except,
+Thrice school’d in all events of human life,)
+None rivall’d ever in the just array670
+Of horse and man to battle. Fifty ships
+Black-prowed, had borne them to the distant war.
+Ajax from Salamis twelve vessels brought,
+And where the Athenian band in phalanx stood
+Marshall’d compact, there station’d he his powers.675
+The men of Argos and Tyrintha next,
+And of Hermione, that stands retired
+With Asine, within her spacious bay;
+Of Epidaurus, crown’d with purple vines,
+And of Trœzena, with the Achaian youth680
+Of sea-begirt Ægina, and with thine,
+Maseta, and the dwellers on thy coast,
+Wave-worn Eïonæ; these all obeyed
+The dauntless Hero Diomede, whom served
+Sthenelus, son of Capaneus, a Chief685
+Of deathless fame, his second in command,
+And godlike man, Euryalus, the son
+Of King Mecisteus, Talaüs’ son, his third.
+But Diomede controll’d them all, and him
+Twice forty sable ships their leader own’d.690
+Came Agamemnon with a hundred ships,
+Exulting in his powers; more numerous they,
+And more illustrious far than other Chief
+Could boast, whoever. Clad in burnish’d brass,
+And conscious of pre-eminence, he stood.695
+He drew his host from cities far renown’d,
+Mycenæ, and Corinthus, seat of wealth,
+Orneia, and Cleonæ bulwark’d strong,
+And lovely Aræthyria; Sicyon, where
+His seat of royal power held at the first700
+Adrastus: Hyperesia, and the heights
+Of Gonoëssa; Ægium, with the towns
+That sprinkle all that far-extended coast,
+Pellene also and wide Helice
+With all their shores, were number’d in his train.705
+From hollow Lacedæmon’s glen profound,
+From Phare, Sparta, and from Messa, still
+Resounding with the ring-dove’s amorous moan,
+From Brysia, from Augeia, from the rocks
+Of Laas, from Amycla, Otilus,710
+And from the towers of Helos, at whose foot
+The surf of Ocean falls, came sixty barks
+With Menelaus. From the monarch’s host
+The royal brother ranged his own apart,
+and panted for revenge of Helen’s wrongs,715
+And of her sighs and tears.[24] From rank to rank,
+Conscious of dauntless might he pass’d, and sent
+Into all hearts the fervor of his own.
+Gerenian Nestor in thrice thirty ships
+Had brought his warriors; they from Pylus came,720
+From blithe Arene, and from Thryos, built
+Fast by the fords of Alpheus, and from steep
+And stately Æpy. Their confederate powers
+Sent Amphigenia, Cyparissa veiled
+With broad redundance of funereal shades,725
+Pteleos and Helos, and of deathless fame
+Dorion. In Dorion erst the Muses met
+Threïcian Thamyris, on his return
+From Eurytus, Oechalian Chief, and hush’d
+His song for ever; for he dared to vaunt730
+That he would pass in song even themselves
+The Muses, daughters of Jove Ægis-arm’d.
+They therefore, by his boast incensed, the bard
+Struck blind, and from his memory dash’d severe
+All traces of his once celestial strains.735
+Arcadia’s sons, the dwellers at the foot
+Of mount Cyllene, where Æpytus sleeps
+Intomb’d; a generation bold in fight,
+And warriors hand to hand; the valiant men
+Of Pheneus, of Orchomenos by flocks740
+Grazed numberless, of Ripe, Stratia, bleak
+Enispe; Mantinea city fair,
+Stymphelus and Parrhasia, and the youth
+Of Tegea; royal Agapenor these,
+Ancæus’ offspring, had in sixty ships745
+To Troy conducted; numerous was the crew,
+And skilled in arms, which every vessel brought,
+And Agamemnon had with barks himself
+Supplied them, for, of inland realms possessed,
+They little heeded maritime employs.[25]750
+The dwellers in Buprasium, on the shores
+Of pleasant Elis, and in all the land
+Myrsinus and the Hyrminian plain between,
+The rock Olenian, and the Alysian fount;
+These all obey’d four Chiefs, and galleys ten755
+Each Chief commanded, with Epeans filled.
+Amphimachus and Thalpius govern’d these,
+This, son of Cteatus, the other, sprung
+From Eurytus, and both of Actor’s house.
+Diores, son of Amarynceus, those760
+Led on, and, for his godlike form renown’d,
+Polyxenus was Chieftain o’er the rest,
+Son of Agasthenes, Augeias’ son.
+Dulichium, and her sister sacred isles
+The Echinades, whose opposite aspect765
+Looks toward Elis o’er the curling waves,
+Sent forth their powers with Meges at their head,
+Brave son of Phyleus, warrior dear to Jove.
+Phyleus in wrath, his father’s house renounced,
+And to Dulichium wandering, there abode.770
+Twice twenty ships had follow’d Meges forth.
+Ulysses led the Cephallenians bold.
+From Ithaca, and from the lofty woods
+Of Neritus they came, and from the rocks
+Of rude Ægilipa. Crocylia these,775
+And these Zacynthus own’d; nor yet a few
+From Samos, from Epirus join’d their aid,
+And from the opposite Ionian shore.
+Them, wise as Jove himself, Ulysses led
+In twelve fair ships, with crimson prows adorn’d.780
+From forty ships, Thoas, Andræmon’s son,
+Had landed his Ætolians; for extinct
+Was Meleager, and extinct the house
+Of Oeneus all, nor Oeneus self survived;
+To Thoas therefore had Ætolia fallen;785
+Him Olenos, Pylene, Chalcis served,
+With Pleuro, and the rock-bound Calydon.
+Idomeneus, spear-practised warrior, led
+The numerous Cretans. In twice forty ships
+He brought his powers to Troy. The warlike bands790
+Of Cnossus, of Gortyna wall’d around,
+Of Lyctus, of Lycastus chalky-white,
+Of Phæstus, of Miletus, with the youth
+Of Rhytius him obey’d; nor these were all,
+But others from her hundred cities Crete795
+Sent forth, all whom Idomeneus the brave
+Commanded, with Meriones in arms
+Dread as the God of battles blood-imbrued.
+Nine ships Tlepolemus, Herculean-born,
+For courage famed and for superior size,800
+Fill’d with his haughty Rhodians. They, in tribes
+Divided, dwelt distinct. Jelyssus these,
+Those Lindus, and the rest the shining soil
+Of white Camirus occupied. Him bore
+To Hercules, (what time he led the nymph805
+From Ephyre, and from Sellea’s banks,
+After full many a city laid in dust.)
+Astyocheia. In his father’s house
+Magnificent, Tlepolemus spear-famed
+Had scarce up-grown to manhood’s lusty prime810
+When he his father’s hoary uncle slew
+Lycimnius, branch of Mars. Then built he ships,
+And, pushing forth to sea, fled from the threats
+Of the whole house of Hercules. Huge toil
+And many woes he suffer’d, till at length815
+At Rhodes arriving, in three separate bands
+He spread himself abroad, Much was he loved
+Of all-commanding Jove, who bless’d him there,
+And shower’d abundant riches on them all.
+Nireus of Syma, with three vessels came;820
+Nireus, Aglæa’s offspring, whom she bore
+To Charopus the King; Nireus in form,
+(The faultless son of Peleus sole except,)
+Loveliest of all the Grecians call’d to Troy.
+But he was heartless and his men were few.[26]825
+Nisyrus, Casus, Crapathus, and Cos
+Where reign’d Eurypylus, with all the isles
+Calydnæ named, under two valiant Chiefs
+Their troops disposed; Phidippus one, and one,
+His brother Antiphus, begotten both830
+By Thessalus, whom Hercules begat.
+In thirty ships they sought the shores of Troy.
+The warriors of Pelasgian Argos next,
+Of Alus, and Alope, and who held
+Trechina, Phthia, and for women fair835
+Distinguish’d, Hellas; known by various names
+Hellenes, Myrmidons, Achæans, them
+In fifty ships embark’d, Achilles ruled.
+But these were deaf to the hoarse-throated war,
+For there was none to draw their battle forth,840
+And give them just array. Close in his ships
+Achilles, after loss of the bright-hair’d
+Brisëis, lay, resentful; her obtained
+Not without labor hard, and after sack
+Of Thebes and of Lyrnessus, where he slew845
+Two mighty Chiefs, sons of Evenus both,
+Epistrophus and Mynes, her he mourn’d,
+And for her sake self-prison’d in his fleet
+And idle lay, though soon to rise again.
+From Phylace, and from the flowery fields850
+Of Pyrrhasus, a land to Ceres given
+By consecration, and from Iton green,
+Mother of flocks; from Antron by the sea,
+And from the grassy meads of Pteleus, came
+A people, whom while yet he lived, the brave855
+Protesilaüs led; but him the earth
+Now cover’d dark and drear. A wife he left,
+To rend in Phylace her bleeding cheeks,
+And an unfinish’d mansion. First he died
+Of all the Greeks; for as he leap’d to land860
+Foremost by far, a Dardan struck him dead.
+Nor had his troops, though filled with deep regret,
+No leader; them Podarces led, a Chief
+Like Mars in battle, brother of the slain,
+But younger born, and from Iphiclus sprung865
+Who sprang from Phylacus the rich in flocks.
+But him Protesilaüs, as in years,
+So also in desert of arms excell’d
+Heroic, whom his host, although they saw
+Podarces at their head, still justly mourn’d;870
+For he was fierce in battle, and at Troy
+With forty sable-sided ships arrived.
+Eleven galleys, Pheræ on the lake,
+And Boebe, and Iölchus, and the vale
+Of Glaphyræ supplied with crews robust875
+Under Eumelus; him Alcestis, praised
+For beauty above all her sisters fair,
+In Thessaly to King Admetus bore.
+Methone, and Olizon’s craggy coast,
+With Melibœa and Thaumasia sent880
+Seven ships; their rowers were good archers all,
+And every vessel dipped into the wave
+Her fifty oars. Them Philoctetes, skill’d
+To draw with sinewy arm the stubborn bow,
+Commanded; but he suffering anguish keen885
+Inflicted by a serpent’s venom’d tooth,
+Lay sick in Lemnos; him the Grecians there
+Had left sore-wounded, but were destined soon
+To call to dear remembrance whom they left.
+Meantime, though sorrowing for his sake, his troops890
+Yet wanted not a chief; them Medon ruled,
+Whom Rhena to the far-famed conqueror bore
+Oïleus, fruit of their unsanction’d loves.
+From Tricca, from Ithome rough and rude
+With rocks and glens, and from Oechalia, town895
+Of Eurytus Oechalian-born, came forth
+Their warlike youth by Podalirius led
+And by Machaon, healers both expert
+Of all disease, and thirty ships were theirs.
+The men of Ormenus, and from beside900
+The fountain Hypereia, from the tops
+Of chalky Titan, and Asteria’s band;
+Them ruled Eurypylus, Evæmon’s son
+Illustrious, whom twice twenty ships obeyed.
+Orthe, Gyrtone, Oloösson white,905
+Argissa and Helone; they their youth
+Gave to control of Polypœtes, son
+Undaunted of Pirithoüs, son of Jove.
+Him, to Pirithoüs, (on the self-same day
+When he the Centaurs punish’d and pursued910
+Sheer to Æthicæ driven from Pelion’s heights
+The shaggy race) Hippodamia bore.
+Nor he alone them led. With him was join’d
+Leonteus dauntless warrior, from the bold
+Coronus sprung, who Cæneus call’d his sire.915
+Twice twenty ships awaited their command.
+Guneus from Cyphus twenty and two ships
+Led forth; the Enienes him obey’d,
+And the robust Perœbi, warriors bold,
+And dwellers on Dodona’s wintry brow.920
+To these were join’d who till the pleasant fields
+Where Titaresius winds; the gentle flood
+Pours into Peneus all his limpid stores,
+But with the silver-eddied Peneus flows
+Unmixt as oil;[27] for Stygian is his stream,925
+And Styx is the inviolable oath.
+Last with his forty ships, Tenthredon’s son,
+The active Prothoüs came. From the green banks
+Of Peneus his Magnesians far and near
+He gather’d, and from Pelion forest-crown’d.930
+These were the princes and the Chiefs of Greece.
+Say, Muse, who most in personal desert
+Excell’d, and whose were the most warlike steeds
+And of the noblest strain. Their hue, their age,
+Their height the same, swift as the winds of heaven935
+And passing far all others, were the mares
+Which drew Eumelus; on Pierian hills
+The heavenly Archer of the silver bow,
+Apollo, bred them. But of men, the chief
+Was Telamonian Ajax, while wrath-bound940
+Achilles lay; for he was worthier far,
+And more illustrious were the steeds which bore
+The noble son of Peleus; but revenge
+On Agamemnon leader of the host
+Was all his thought, while in his gallant ships945
+Sharp-keel’d to cut the foaming flood, he lay.
+Meantime, along the margin of the deep
+His soldiers hurled the disk, or bent the bow.
+Or to its mark dispatch’d the quivering lance.
+Beside the chariots stood the unharness’d steeds950
+Cropping the lotus, or at leisure browsed
+On celery wild, from watery freshes gleaned.
+Beneath the shadow of the sheltering tent
+The chariot stood, while they, the charioteers
+Roam’d here and there the camp, their warlike lord955
+Regretting sad, and idle for his sake.
+As if a fire had burnt along the ground,
+Such seem’d their march; earth groan’d their steps beneath;
+As when in Arimi, where fame reports
+Typhoëus stretch’d, the fires of angry Jove960
+Down darted, lash the ground, so groan’d the earth
+Beneath them, for they traversed swift the plain.
+And now from Jove, with heavy tidings charged,
+Wind-footed Iris to the Trojans came.
+It was the time of council, when the throng965
+At Priam’s gate assembled, young and old:
+Them, standing nigh, the messenger of heaven
+Accosted with the voice of Priam’s son,
+Polites. He, confiding in his speed
+For sure deliverance, posted was abroad970
+On Æsyeta’s tomb,[28] intent to watch
+When the Achaian host should leave the fleet.
+The Goddess in his form thus them address’d.
+Oh, ancient Monarch! Ever, evermore
+Speaking, debating, as if all were peace;975
+I have seen many a bright-embattled field,
+But never one so throng’d as this to-day.
+For like the leaves, or like the sands they come
+Swept by the winds, to gird the city round.
+But Hector! chiefly thee I shall exhort.980
+In Priam’s spacious city are allies
+Collected numerous, and of nations wide
+Disseminated various are the tongues.
+Let every Chief his proper troop command,
+And marshal his own citizens to war.985
+She ceased; her Hector heard intelligent,
+And quick dissolved the council. All took arms.
+Wide flew the gates; forth rush’d the multitude,
+Horsemen and foot, and boisterous stir arose.
+In front of Ilium, distant on the plain,990
+Clear all around from all obstruction, stands
+An eminence high-raised, by mortal men
+Call’d Bateia, but the Gods the tomb
+Have named it of Myrinna swift in fight.
+Troy and her aids there set the battle forth.995
+Huge Priameian Hector, fierce in arms,
+Led on the Trojans; with whom march’d the most
+And the most valiant, dexterous at the spear.
+Æneas, (on the hills of Ida him
+The lovely Venus to Anchises bore,1000
+A Goddess by a mortal man embraced)
+Led the Dardanians; but not he alone;
+Archilochus with him and Acamas
+Stood forth, the offspring of Antenor, each,
+And well instructed in all forms of war.1005
+Fast by the foot of Ida, where they drank
+The limpid waters of Æsepus, dwelt
+The Trojans of Zeleia. Rich were they
+And led by Pandarus, Lycaon’s son,
+Whom Phœbus self graced with the bow he bore.1010
+Apæsus, Adrastea, Terie steep,
+And Pitueia—them, Amphius clad
+In mail thick-woven, and Adrastus, ruled.
+They were the sons of the Percosian seer
+Merops, expert in the soothsayers’ art1015
+Above all other; he his sons forbad
+The bloody fight, but disobedient they
+Still sought it, for their destiny prevailed.
+The warriors of Percote, and who dwelt
+In Practius, in Arisba, city fair,1020
+In Sestus, in Abydus, march’d behind
+Princely Hyrtacides; his tawny steeds,
+Strong-built and tall, from Sellcentes’ bank
+And from Arisba, had him borne to Troy.
+Hippothous and Pilmus, branch of Mars,1025
+Both sons of Lethus the Pelasgian, they,
+Forth from Larissa for her fertile soil
+Far-famed, the spear-expert Pelasgians brought.
+The Thracians (all whom Hellespont includes
+Within the banks of his swift-racing tide)1030
+Heroic Acamas and Pirous led.
+Euphemus, offspring of Trœzenus, son
+Of Jove-protected Ceas, was the Chief
+Whom the spear-arm’d Ciconian band obey’d.
+Pæonia’s archers follow’d to the field1035
+Pyræchmes; they from Amydon remote
+Were drawn, where Axius winds; broad Axius, stream
+Diffused delightful over all the vale.
+Pylæmenes, a Chief of giant might
+From the Eneti for forest-mules renowned1040
+March’d with his Paphlagonians; dwellers they
+In Sesamus and in Cytorus were,
+And by the stream Parthenius; Cromna these
+Sent forth, and those Ægialus on the lip
+And margin of the land, and some, the heights1045
+Of Erythini, rugged and abrupt.
+Epistrophus and Odius from the land
+Of Alybe, a region far remote,
+Where veins of silver wind, led to the field
+The Halizonians. With the Mysians came1050
+Chromis their Chief, and Ennomus; him skill’d
+In augury, but skill’d in vain, his art
+Saved not, but by Æacides[29] the swift,
+With others in the Xanthus[30] slain, he died.
+Ascanius, lovely youth, and Phorcis, led1055
+The Phrygians from Ascania far remote,
+Ardent for battle. The Mœonian race,
+(All those who at the foot of Tmolus dwelt,)
+Mesthles and Antiphus, fraternal pair,
+Sons of Pylæmenes commanded, both1060
+Of the Gygæan lake in Lydia born.
+Amphimachus and Nastes led to fight
+The Carians, people of a barbarous speech,[31]
+With the Milesians, and the mountain-race
+Of wood-crown’d Phthira, and who dwelt beside1065
+Mæander, or on Mycale sublime.
+Them led Amphimachus and Nastes, sons
+Renown’d of Nomion. Like a simple girl
+Came forth Amphimachus with gold bedight,
+But him his trappings from a woful death1070
+Saved not, when whirled beneath the bloody tide
+To Peleus’ stormy son his spoils he left.
+Sarpedon with the noble Glaucus led
+Their warriors forth from farthest Lycia, where
+Xanthus deep-dimpled rolls his oozy tide.1075
+
+
+
+
+BOOK III.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE THIRD BOOK.
+
+The armies meet. Paris throws out a challenge to the Grecian Princes.
+Menelaus accepts it. The terms of the combat are adjusted solemnly by
+Agamemnon on the part of Greece, and by Priam on the part of Troy. The
+combat ensues, in which Paris is vanquished, whom yet Venus rescues.
+Agamemnon demands from the Trojans a performance of the covenant.
+
+
+BOOK III.
+
+
+[1]Now marshall’d all beneath their several chiefs,
+With deafening shouts, and with the clang of arms,
+The host of Troy advanced. Such clang is heard
+Along the skies, when from incessant showers
+Escaping, and from winter’s cold, the cranes5
+Take wing, and over Ocean speed away;[2]
+Wo to the land of dwarfs! prepared they fly
+For slaughter of the small Pygmæan race.
+Not so the Greeks; they breathing valor came,
+But silent all, and all with faithful hearts10
+On succor mutual to the last, resolved.
+As when the south wind wraps the mountain top
+In mist the shepherd’s dread, but to the thief
+Than night itself more welcome, and the eye
+Is bounded in its ken to a stone’s cast,15
+Such from beneath their footsteps dun and dense
+Uprose the dust, for swift they cross the plain.
+
+When, host to host opposed, full nigh they stood,
+Then Alexander[3] in the Trojan van
+Advanced was seen, all beauteous as a God;20
+His leopard’s skin, his falchion and his bow
+Hung from his shoulder; bright with heads of brass
+He shook two spears, and challenged to the fight
+The bravest Argives there, defying all.
+Him, striding haughtily his host before25
+When Menelaus saw, such joy he felt
+As hunger-pinch’d the lion feels, by chance
+Conducted to some carcase huge, wild goat,
+Or antler’d stag; huntsmen and baying hounds
+Disturb not _him_, he gorges in their sight.30
+So Menelaus at the view rejoiced
+Of lovely Alexander, for he hoped
+His punishment at hand. At once, all armed,
+Down from his chariot to the ground he leap’d
+When godlike Paris him in front beheld35
+Conspicuous, his heart smote him, and his fate
+Avoiding, far within the lines he shrank.[4]
+As one, who in some woodland height descrying
+A serpent huge, with sudden start recoils,
+His limbs shake under him; with cautious step40
+He slow retires; fear blanches cold his cheeks;
+So beauteous Alexander at the sight
+Of Atreus’ son dishearten’d sore, the ranks
+Of haughty Trojans enter’d deep again:
+Him Hector eyed, and thus rebuked severe.45
+Curst Paris! Fair deceiver! Woman-mad!
+I would to all in heaven that thou hadst died
+Unborn, at least unmated! happier far
+Than here to have incurr’d this public shame!
+Well may the Grecians taunt, and laughing loud,50
+Applaud the champion, slow indeed to fight
+And pusillanimous, but wondrous fair.
+Wast thou as timid, tell me, when with those
+Thy loved companions in that famed exploit,
+Thou didst consort with strangers, and convey55
+From distant lands a warrior’s beauteous bride
+To be thy father’s and his people’s curse,
+Joy to our foes, but to thyself reproach?
+Behold her husband! Darest thou not to face
+The warlike prince? Now learn how brave a Chief60
+Thou hast defrauded of his blooming spouse.
+Thy lyre, thy locks, thy person, specious gifts
+Of partial Venus, will avail thee nought,
+Once mixt by Menelaus with the dust.
+But we are base ourselves, or long ago,65
+For all thy numerous mischiefs, thou hadst slept
+Secure beneath a coverlet[5] of stone.[6]
+Then godlike Alexander thus replied.
+Oh Hector, true in temper as the axe
+Which in the shipwright’s hand the naval plank70
+Divides resistless, doubling all his force,
+Such is thy dauntless spirit whose reproach
+Perforce I own, nor causeless nor unjust.
+Yet let the gracious gifts uncensured pass
+Of golden Venus; man may not reject75
+The glorious bounty by the Gods bestow’d,
+Nor follows their beneficence our choice.
+But if thy pleasure be that I engage
+With Menelaus in decision fierce
+Of desperate combat bid the host of Troy80
+And bid the Grecians sit; then face to face
+Commit us, in the vacant field between,
+To fight for Helen and for all her wealth.
+Who strongest proves, and conquers, he, of her
+And hers possess’d shall bear them safe away;85
+While ye (peace sworn and firm accord) shall dwell
+At Troy, and these to Argos shall return
+And to Achaia praised for women fair.
+He ceased, whom Hector heard with joy; he moved
+Into the middle space, and with his spear90
+Advanced athwart push’d back the Trojan van,
+And all stood fast. Meantime at him the Greeks
+Discharged full volley, showering thick around
+From bow and sling;[7] when with a mighty voice
+Thus Agamemnon, leader of the host.95
+Argives! Be still—shoot not, ye sons of Greece!
+Hector bespeaks attention. Hear the Chief!
+He said, at once the Grecians ceased to shoot,
+And all sat silent. Hector then began.
+Hear me, ye Trojans, and ye Greeks mail-arm’d,100
+While I shall publish in your ears the words
+Of Alexander, author of our strife.
+Trojans, he bids, and Grecians on the field
+Their arms dispose; while he, the hosts between,
+With warlike Menelaus shall in fight105
+Contend for Helen, and for all her wealth.
+Who strongest proves, and conquers, he, of her
+And hers possess’d, shall bear them safe away,
+And oaths of amity shall bind the rest.
+He ceased, and all deep silence held, amazed;110
+When valiant Menelaus thus began.
+Hear now me also, on whose aching heart
+These woes have heaviest fallen. At last I hope
+Decision near, Trojans and Greeks between,
+For ye have suffer’d in my quarrel much,115
+And much by Paris, author of the war.
+Die he who must, and peace be to the rest.
+But ye shall hither bring two lambs, one white,
+The other black;[8] this to the Earth devote,
+That to the Sun. We shall ourselves supply120
+A third for Jove. Then bring ye Priam forth,
+Himself to swear the covenant, (for his sons
+Are faithless) lest the oath of Jove be scorn’d.
+Young men are ever of unstable mind;
+But when an elder interferes, he views125
+Future and past together, and insures
+The compact, to both parties, uninfringed.
+So Menelaus spake; and in all hearts
+Awaken’d joyful hope that there should end
+War’s long calamities. Alighted each,130
+And drew his steeds into the lines. The field
+Glitter’d with arms put off, and side by side,
+Ranged orderly, while the interrupted war
+Stood front to front, small interval between.
+Then Hector to the city sent in haste135
+Two heralds for the lambs, and to invite
+Priam; while Agamemnon, royal Chief,
+Talthybius to the Grecian fleet dismiss’d
+For a third lamb to Jove; nor he the voice
+Of noble Agamemnon disobey’d.140
+Iris, ambassadress of heaven, the while,
+To Helen came. Laödice she seem’d,
+Loveliest of all the daughters of the house
+Of Priam, wedded to Antenor’s son,
+King Helicäon. Her she found within,145
+An ample web magnificent she wove,[9]
+Inwrought with numerous conflicts for her sake
+Beneath the hands of Mars endured by Greeks
+Mail-arm’d, and Trojans of equestrian fame.
+Swift Iris, at her side, her thus address’d.150
+Haste, dearest nymph! a wondrous sight behold!
+Greeks brazen-mail’d, and Trojans steed-renown’d.
+So lately on the cruel work of Mars
+Intent and hot for mutual havoc, sit
+Silent; the war hath paused, and on his shield155
+Each leans, his long spear planted at his side.
+Paris and Menelaus, warrior bold,
+With quivering lances shall contend for thee,
+And thou art his who conquers; his for ever.
+So saying, the Goddess into Helen’s soul160
+Sweetest desire infused to see again
+Her former Lord, her parents, and her home.
+At once o’ermantled with her snowy veil
+She started forth, and as she went let fall
+A tender tear; not unaccompanied165
+She went, but by two maidens of her train
+Attended, Æthra, Pittheus’ daughter fair,
+And soft-eyed Clymene. Their hasty steps
+Convey’d them quickly to the Scæan gate.
+There Priam, Panthous, Clytius, Lampus sat,170
+Thymoetes, Hicetaon, branch of Mars,
+Antenor and Ucalegon the wise,
+All, elders of the people; warriors erst,
+But idle now through age, yet of a voice
+Still indefatigable as the fly’s[10]175
+Which perch’d among the boughs sends forth at noon
+Through all the grove his slender ditty sweet.
+Such sat those Trojan leaders on the tower,
+Who, soon as Helen on the steps they saw,
+In accents quick, but whisper’d, thus remark’d.180
+Trojans and Grecians wage, with fair excuse,
+Long war for so much beauty.[11] Oh, how like
+In feature to the Goddesses above!
+Pernicious loveliness! Ah, hence away,
+Resistless as thou art and all divine,185
+Nor leave a curse to us, and to our sons.
+So they among themselves; but Priam call’d
+Fair Helen to his side.[12] My daughter dear!
+Come, sit beside me. Thou shalt hence discern
+Thy former Lord, thy kindred and thy friends.190
+I charge no blame on thee. The Gods have caused,
+Not thou, this lamentable war to Troy.[13]
+Name to me yon Achaian Chief for bulk
+Conspicuous, and for port. Taller indeed
+I may perceive than he; but with these eyes195
+Saw never yet such dignity, and grace.
+Declare his name. Some royal Chief he seems.
+To whom thus Helen, loveliest of her sex,
+My other Sire! by me for ever held
+In reverence, and with filial fear beloved!200
+Oh that some cruel death had been my choice,
+Rather than to abandon, as I did,
+All joys domestic, matrimonial bliss,
+Brethren, dear daughter, and companions dear,
+A wanderer with thy son. Yet I alas!205
+Died not, and therefore now, live but to weep.
+But I resolve thee. Thou behold’st the son
+Of Atreus, Agamemnon, mighty king,
+In arms heroic, gracious in the throne,
+And, (though it shame me now to call him such,)210
+By nuptial ties a brother once to me.
+Then him the ancient King-admiring, said.
+Oh blest Atrides, happy was thy birth,
+And thy lot glorious, whom this gallant host
+So numerous, of the sons of Greece obey!215
+To vine-famed Phrygia, in my days of youth,
+I journey’d; many Phrygians there I saw,
+Brave horsemen, and expert; they were the powers
+Of Otreus and of Mygdon, godlike Chief,
+And on the banks of Sangar’s stream encamp’d.220
+I march’d among them, chosen in that war
+Ally of Phrygia, and it was her day
+Of conflict with the man-defying race,
+The Amazons; yet multitudes like these
+Thy bright-eyed Greeks, I saw not even there.225
+The venerable King observing next
+Ulysses, thus inquired. My child, declare
+Him also. Shorter by the head he seems
+Than Agamemnon, Atreus’ mighty son,
+But shoulder’d broader, and of ampler chest;230
+He hath disposed his armor on the plain,
+But like a ram, himself the warrior ranks
+Ranges majestic; like a ram full-fleeced
+By numerous sheep encompass’d snowy-white.
+To whom Jove’s daughter Helen thus replied.235
+In him the son of old Laërtes know,
+Ulysses; born in Ithaca the rude,
+But of a piercing wit, and deeply wise.
+Then answer thus, Antenor sage return’d.
+Princess thou hast described him: hither once240
+The noble Ithacan, on thy behalf
+Ambassador with Menelaus, came:
+Beneath my roof, with hospitable fare
+Friendly I entertained them. Seeing then
+Occasion opportune, I closely mark’d245
+The genius and the talents of the Chiefs,
+And this I noted well; that when they stood
+Amid the assembled counsellors of Troy,
+Then Menelaus his advantage show’d,
+Who by the shoulders overtopp’d his friend.250
+But when both sat, Ulysses in his air
+Had more of state and dignity than he.
+In the delivery of a speech address’d
+To the full senate, Menelaus used
+Few words, but to the matter, fitly ranged,255
+And with much sweetness utter’d; for in loose
+And idle play of ostentatious terms
+He dealt not, thhugh he were the younger man.
+But when the wise Ulysses from his seat
+Had once arisen, he would his downcast eyes260
+So rivet on the earth, and with a hand
+That seem’d untutor’d in its use, so hold
+His sceptre, swaying it to neither side,
+That hadst thou seen him, thou hadst thought him, sure,
+Some chafed and angry idiot, passion-fixt.265
+Yet, when at length, the clear and mellow base
+Of his deep voice brake forth, and he let fall
+His chosen words like flakes of feather’d snow,
+None then might match Ulysses; leisure, then,
+Found none to wonder at his noble form.270
+The third of whom the venerable king
+Inquired, was Ajax.—Yon Achaian tall,
+Whose head and shoulders tower above the rest,
+And of such bulk prodigious—who is he?
+Him answer’d Helen, loveliest of her sex.275
+A bulwark of the Greeks. In him thou seest
+Gigantic Ajax. Opposite appear
+The Cretans, and among the Chiefs of Crete
+stands, like a God, Idomeneus. Him oft
+From Crete arrived, was Menelaüs wont280
+To entertain; and others now I see,
+Achaians, whom I could recall to mind,
+And give to each his name; but two brave youths
+I yet discern not; for equestrian skill
+One famed, and one a boxer never foiled;285
+My brothers; born of Leda; sons of Jove;
+Castor and Pollux. Either they abide
+In lovely Sparta still, or if they came,
+Decline the fight, by my disgrace abash’d
+And the reproaches which have fallen on me.[14]290
+She said; but they already slept inhumed
+In Lacedemon, in their native soil.
+And now the heralds, through the streets of Troy
+Charged with the lambs, and with a goat-skin filled
+With heart-exhilarating wine prepared295
+For that divine solemnity, return’d.
+Idæus in his hand a beaker bore
+Resplendent, with its fellow cups of gold,
+And thus he summon’d ancient Priam forth.
+Son of Laömedon, arise. The Chiefs300
+Call thee, the Chiefs of Ilium and of Greece.
+Descend into the plain. We strike a truce,
+And need thine oath to bind it. Paris fights
+With warlike Menelaüs for his spouse;
+Their spears decide the strife. The conqueror wins305
+Helen and all her treasures. We, thenceforth,
+(Peace sworn and amity) shall dwell secure
+In Troy, while they to Argos shall return
+And to Achaia praised for women fair.
+He spake, and Priam, shuddering, bade his train310
+Prepare his steeds; they sedulous obey’d.
+First, Priam mounting, backward stretch’d the reins;
+Antenor, next, beside him sat, and through
+The Scæan gate they drove into the plain.
+Arriving at the hosts of Greece and Troy315
+They left the chariot, and proceeded both
+Into the interval between the hosts.
+Then uprose Agamemnon, and uprose
+All-wise Ulysses. Next, the heralds came
+Conspicuous forward, expediting each320
+The ceremonial; they the beaker fill’d
+With wine, and to the hands of all the kings
+Minister’d water. Agamemnon then
+Drawing his dagger which he ever bore
+Appendant to his heavy falchion’s sheath,325
+Cut off the forelocks of the lambs,[15] of which
+The heralds gave to every Grecian Chief
+A portion, and to all the Chiefs of Troy.
+Then Agamemnon raised his hands, and pray’d.
+Jove, Father, who from Ida stretchest forth330
+Thine arm omnipotent, o’erruling all,
+And thou, all-seeing and all-hearing Sun,
+Ye Rivers, and thou conscious Earth, and ye
+Who under earth on human kind avenge
+Severe, the guilt of violated oaths,335
+Hear ye, and ratify what now we swear!
+Should Paris slay the hero amber-hair’d,
+My brother Menelaüs, Helen’s wealth
+And Helen’s self are his, and all our host
+Shall home return to Greece; but should it chance340
+That Paris fall by Menelaüs’ hand,
+Then Troy shall render back what she detains,
+With such amercement as is meet, a sum
+To be remember’d in all future times.
+Which penalty should Priam and his sons345
+Not pay, though Paris fall, then here in arms
+I will contend for payment of the mulct
+My due, till, satisfied, I close the war.
+He said, and with his ruthless steel the lambs
+Stretch’d panting all, but soon they ceased to pant,350
+For mortal was the stroke.[16] Then drawing forth
+Wine from the beaker, they with brimming cups
+Hail’d the immortal Gods, and pray’d again,
+And many a Grecian thus and Trojan spake.
+All-glorious Jove, and ye the powers of heaven,355
+Whoso shall violate this contract first,
+So be the brains of them and of their sons
+Pour’d out, as we this wine pour on the earth,
+And may their wives bring forth to other men!
+So they: but them Jove heard not. Then arose360
+Priam, the son of Dardanus, and said,
+Hear me, ye Trojans and ye Greeks well-arm’d.
+Hence back to wind-swept Ilium I return,
+Unable to sustain the sight, my son
+With warlike Menelaüs match’d in arms.365
+Jove knows, and the immortal Gods, to whom
+Of both, this day is preordain’d the last.
+So spake the godlike monarch, and disposed
+Within the royal chariot all the lambs;
+Then, mounting, check’d the reins; Antenor next370
+Ascended, and to Ilium both return’d.
+First, Hector and Ulysses, noble Chief,
+Measured the ground; then taking lots for proof
+Who of the combatants should foremost hurl
+His spear, they shook them in a brazen casque;375
+Meantime the people raised their hands on high,
+And many a Grecian thus and Trojan prayed.
+Jove, Father, who on Ida seated, seest
+And rulest all below, glorious in power!
+Of these two champions, to the drear abodes380
+Of Ades him appoint who furnish’d first
+The cause of strife between them, and let peace
+Oath-bound, and amity unite the rest!
+So spake the hosts; then Hector shook the lots,
+Majestic Chief, turning his face aside.385
+Forth sprang the lot of Paris. They in ranks
+Sat all, where stood the fiery steeds of each,
+And where his radiant arms lay on the field.
+Illustrious Alexander his bright arms
+Put on, fair Helen’s paramour. [17]He clasp’d390
+His polish’d greaves with silver studs secured;
+His brother’s corselet to his breast he bound,
+Lycaon’s, apt to his own shape and size,
+And slung athwart his shoulders, bright emboss’d,
+His brazen sword; his massy buckler broad395
+He took, and to his graceful head his casque
+Adjusted elegant, which, as he moved,
+Its bushy crest waved dreadful; last he seized,
+Well fitted to his gripe, his ponderous spear.
+Meantime the hero Menelaüs made400
+Like preparation, and his arms put on.
+When thus, from all the multitude apart,
+Both combatants had arm’d, with eyes that flash’d
+Defiance, to the middle space they strode,
+Trojans and Greeks between. Astonishment405
+Seized all beholders. On the measured ground
+Full near they stood, each brandishing on high
+His massy spear, and each was fiery wroth.
+First, Alexander his long-shadow’d spear
+Sent forth, and on his smooth shield’s surface struck410
+The son of Atreus, but the brazen guard
+Pierced not, for at the disk, with blunted point
+Reflex, his ineffectual weapon stay’d.
+Then Menelaüs to the fight advanced
+Impetuous, after prayer offer’d to Jove.[18]415
+King over all! now grant me to avenge
+My wrongs on Alexander; now subdue
+The aggressor under me; that men unborn
+May shudder at the thought of faith abused,
+And hospitality with rape repaid.420
+He said, and brandishing his massy spear,
+Dismiss’d it. Through the burnish’d buckler broad
+Of Priam’s son the stormy weapon flew,
+Transpierced his costly hauberk, and the vest
+Ripp’d on his flank; but with a sideward bend425
+He baffled it, and baulk’d the dreadful death.
+Then Menelaüs drawing his bright blade,
+Swung it aloft, and on the hairy crest
+Smote him; but shiver’d into fragments small
+The falchion at the stroke fell from his hand.430
+Vexation fill’d him; to the spacious heavens
+He look’d, and with a voice of wo exclaim’d—
+Jupiter! of all powers by man adored
+To me most adverse! Confident I hoped
+Revenge for Paris’ treason, but my sword435
+Is shivered, and I sped my spear in vain.
+So saying, he sprang on him, and his long crest
+Seized fast; then, turning, drew him by that hold
+Toward the Grecian host. The broider’d band
+That underbraced his helmet at the chin,440
+Strain’d to his smooth neck with a ceaseless force,
+Chok’d him; and now had Menelaus won
+Deathless renown, dragging him off the field,
+But Venus, foam-sprung Goddess, feeling quick
+His peril imminent, snapp’d short the brace445
+Though stubborn, by a slaughter’d[19] ox supplied,
+And the void helmet follow’d as he pull’d.
+That prize the Hero, whirling it aloft,
+Threw to his Greeks, who caught it and secured,
+Then with vindictive strides he rush’d again450
+On Paris, spear in hand; but him involved
+In mist opaque Venus with ease divine
+Snatch’d thence, and in his chamber placed him, fill’d
+With scents odorous, spirit-soothing sweets.
+Nor stay’d the Goddess, but at once in quest455
+Of Helen went; her on a lofty tower
+She found, where many a damsel stood of Troy,
+And twitch’d her fragrant robe. In form she seem’d
+An ancient matron, who, while Helen dwelt
+In Lacedæmon, her unsullied wool460
+Dress’d for her, faithfullest of all her train.
+Like her disguised the Goddess thus began.
+Haste—Paris calls thee—on his sculptured couch,
+(Sparkling alike his looks and his attire)
+He waits thy wish’d return. Thou wouldst not dream465
+That he had fought; he rather seems prepared
+For dance, or after dance, for soft repose.
+So saying, she tumult raised in Helen’s mind.
+Yet soon as by her symmetry of neck,
+By her love-kindling breasts and luminous eyes470
+She knew the Goddess, her she thus bespake.
+Ah whence, deceitful deity! thy wish
+Now to ensnare me? Wouldst thou lure me, say,
+To some fair city of Mæonian name
+Or Phrygian, more remote from Sparta still?475
+Hast thou some human favorite also there?
+Is it because Atrides hath prevailed
+To vanquish Paris, and would bear me home
+Unworthy as I am, that thou attempt’st
+Again to cheat me? Go thyself—sit thou480
+Beside him—for his sake renounce the skies;
+Watch him, weep for him; till at length his wife
+He deign to make thee, or perchance his slave.
+I go not (now to go were shame indeed)
+To dress his couch; nor will I be the jest485
+Of all my sex in Ilium. Oh! my griefs
+Are infinite, and more than I can bear.
+To whom, the foam-sprung Goddess, thus incensed.
+Ah wretch! provoke not me; lest in my wrath
+Abandoning thee, I not hate thee less490
+Than now I fondly love thee, and beget
+Such detestation of thee in all hearts,
+Grecian and Trojan, that thou die abhorr’d.
+The Goddess ceased. Jove’s daughter, Helen, fear’d,
+And, in her lucid veil close wrapt around,495
+Silent retired, of all those Trojan dames
+Unseen, and Venus led, herself, the way.
+Soon then as Alexander’s fair abode
+They reach’d, her maidens quick their tasks resumed,
+And she to her own chamber lofty-roof’d500
+Ascended, loveliest of her sex. A seat
+For Helen, daughter of Jove Ægis-arm’d,
+To Paris opposite, the Queen of smiles
+Herself disposed; but with averted eyes
+She sat before him, and him keen reproach’d.505
+Thou hast escaped.—Ah would that thou hadst died
+By that heroic arm, mine husband’s erst!
+Thou once didst vaunt thee in address and strength
+Superior. Go then—challenge yet again
+The warlike Menelaüs forth in fight.510
+But hold. The hero of the amber locks
+Provoke no more so rashly, lest the point
+Of his victorious spear soon stretch thee dead.
+She ended, to whom Paris thus replied.
+Ah Helen, wound me not with taunt severe!515
+Me, Menelaüs, by Minerva’s aid,
+Hath vanquish’d now, who may hereafter, him.
+We also have our Gods. But let us love.
+For never since the day when thee I bore
+From pleasant Lacedæmon o’er the waves520
+To Cranäe’s fair isle, and first enjoy’d
+Thy beauty, loved I as I love thee now,
+Or felt such sweetness of intense desire.
+
+He spake, and sought his bed, whom follow’d soon
+Jove’s daughter, reconciled to his embrace.525
+But Menelaüs like a lion ranged
+The multitude, inquiring far and near
+For Paris lost. Yet neither Trojan him
+Nor friend of Troy could show, whom, else, through love
+None had conceal’d, for him as death itself530
+All hated, but his going none had seen.
+Amidst them all then spake the King of men.
+Trojans, and Dardans, and allies of Troy!
+The warlike Menelaüs hath prevailed,
+As is most plain. Now therefore bring ye forth535
+Helen with all her treasures, also bring
+Such large amercement as is meet, a sum
+To be remember’d in all future times.
+So spake Atrides, and Achaia’s host
+With loud applause confirm’d the monarch’s claim.540
+
+
+
+
+BOOK IV.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE FOURTH BOOK.
+
+In a Council of the Gods, a dispute arises between Jupiter and Juno,
+which is at last compromised, Jove consenting to dispatch Minerva with
+a charge to incite some Trojan to a violation of the truce. Minerva
+descends for that purpose, and in the form of Laodocus, a son of Priam,
+exhorts Pandarus to shoot at Menelaus, and succeeds. Menelaus is
+wounded, and Agamemnon having consigned him to the care of Machaon,
+goes forth to perform the duties of commander-in-chief, in the
+encouragement of his host to battle. The battle begins.
+
+
+BOOK IV.
+
+
+Now, on the golden floor of Jove’s abode
+The Gods all sat consulting; Hebe them,
+Graceful, with nectar served;[1] they pledging each
+His next, alternate quaff’d from cups of gold,
+And at their ease reclined, look’d down on Troy,5
+When, sudden, Jove essay’d by piercing speech
+Invidious, to enkindle Juno’s ire.
+Two Goddesses on Menelaus’ part
+Confederate stand, Juno in Argos known,
+Pallas in Alalcomene;[2] yet they10
+Sequester’d sit, look on, and are amused.
+Not so smile-loving Venus; she, beside
+Her champion station’d, saves him from his fate,
+And at this moment, by her aid, he lives.
+But now, since victory hath proved the lot15
+Of warlike Menelaus, weigh ye well
+The matter; shall we yet the ruinous strife
+Prolong between the nations, or consent
+To give them peace? should peace your preference win,
+And prove alike acceptable to all,20
+Stand Ilium, and let Menelaus bear
+Helen of Argos back to Greece again.
+
+He ended; Juno and Minerva heard,
+Low-murmuring deep disgust; for side by side
+They forging sat calamity to Troy.25
+Minerva through displeasure against Jove
+Nought utter’d, for with rage her bosom boil’d;
+But Juno check’d not hers, who thus replied.
+What word hath pass’d thy lips, Jove most severe!
+How? wouldst thou render fruitless all my pains?30
+The sweat that I have pour’d? my steeds themselves
+Have fainted while I gather’d Greece in arms
+For punishment of Priam and his sons.
+Do it. But small thy praise shall be in heaven.
+Then her the Thunderer answer’d sore displeased.35
+Ah shameless! how have Priam and his sons
+So much transgress’d against thee, that thou burn’st
+With ceaseless rage to ruin populous Troy?
+Go, make thine entrance at her lofty gates,
+Priam and all his house, and all his host40
+Alive devour; then, haply, thou wilt rest;
+Do even as thou wilt, that this dispute
+Live not between us a consuming fire
+For ever. But attend; mark well the word.
+When I shall also doom in future time45
+Some city to destruction, dear to thee,
+Oppose me not, but give my fury way
+As I give way to thine, not pleased myself,
+Yet not unsatisfied, so thou be pleased.
+For of all cities of the sons of men,50
+And which the sun and stars from heaven behold,
+Me sacred Troy most pleases, Priam me
+Most, and the people of the warrior King.
+Nor without cause. They feed mine altar well;
+Libation there, and steam of savory scent55
+Fail not, the tribute which by lot is ours.
+Him answer’d, then, the Goddess ample-eyed,[3]
+Majestic Juno: Three fair cities me,
+Of all the earth, most interest and engage,
+Mycenæ for magnificence renown’d,60
+Argos, and Sparta. Them, when next thy wrath
+Shall be inflamed against them, lay thou waste;
+I will not interpose on their behalf;
+Thou shalt not hear me murmur; what avail
+Complaint or force against thy matchless arm?65
+Yet were it most unmeet that even I
+Should toil in vain; I also boast a birth
+Celestial; Saturn deeply wise, thy Sire,
+Is also mine; our origin is one.
+Thee I acknowledge Sovereign, yet account70
+Myself entitled by a twofold claim
+To veneration both from Gods and men,
+The daughter of Jove’s sire, and spouse of Jove.
+Concession mutual therefore both thyself
+Befits and me, whom when the Gods perceive75
+Disposed to peace, they also shall accord.
+Come then.—To yon dread field dispatch in haste
+Minerva, with command that she incite
+The Trojans first to violate their oath
+By some fresh insult on the exulting Greeks.80
+So Juno; nor the sire of all refused,
+But in wing’d accents thus to Pallas spake.
+Begone; swift fly to yonder field; incite
+The Trojans first to violate their oath
+By some fresh insult on the exulting Greeks.85
+The Goddess heard, and what she wish’d, enjoin’d,
+Down-darted swift from the Olympian heights,
+In form a meteor, such as from his hand
+Not seldom Jove dismisses, beaming bright
+And breaking into stars, an omen sent90
+To mariners, or to some numerous host.
+Such Pallas seem’d, and swift descending, dropp’d
+Full in the midst between them. They with awe
+That sign portentous and with wonder view’d,
+Achaians both and Trojans, and his next95
+The soldier thus bespake. Now either war
+And dire hostility again shall flame,
+Or Jove now gives us peace. Both are from Jove.
+So spake the soldiery; but she the form
+Taking of brave Laodocus, the son100
+Of old Antenor, throughout all the ranks
+Sought godlike Pandarus.[4] Ere long she found
+The valiant son illustrious of Lycaon,
+Standing encompass’d by his dauntless troops,
+Broad-shielded warriors, from Æsepus’ stream105
+His followers; to his side the Goddess came,
+And in wing’d accents ardent him bespake.
+Brave offspring of Lycaon, is there hope
+That thou wilt hear my counsel? darest thou slip
+A shaft at Menelaus? much renown110
+Thou shalt and thanks from all the Trojans win,
+But most of all, from Paris, prince of Troy.
+From him illustrious gifts thou shalt receive
+Doubtless, when Menelaus he shall see
+The martial son of Atreus by a shaft115
+Subdued of thine, placed on his funeral pile.
+Come. Shoot at Menelaus, glorious Chief!
+But vow to Lycian Phœbus bow-renown’d
+A hecatomb, all firstlings of the flock,
+To fair Zeleia’s[5] walls once safe restored.120
+So Pallas spake, to whom infatuate he
+Listening, uncased at once his polished bow.[6]
+That bow, the laden brows of a wild goat
+Salacious had supplied; him on a day
+Forth-issuing from his cave, in ambush placed125
+He wounded with an arrow to his breast
+Dispatch’d, and on the rock supine he fell.
+Each horn had from his head tall growth attain’d,
+Full sixteen palms; them shaven smooth the smith
+Had aptly join’d, and tipt their points with gold.130
+That bow he strung, then, stooping, planted firm
+The nether horn, his comrades bold the while
+Screening him close with shields, lest ere the prince
+Were stricken, Menelaus brave in arms,
+The Greeks with fierce assault should interpose.135
+He raised his quiver’s lid; he chose a dart
+Unflown, full-fledged, and barb’d with pangs of death.
+He lodged in haste the arrow on the string,
+And vow’d to Lycian Phœbus bow-renown’d
+A hecatomb, all firstlings of the flock,140
+To fair Zeleia’s walls once safe restored.
+Compressing next nerve and notch’d arrow-head
+He drew back both together, to his pap
+Drew home the nerve, the barb home to his bow,
+And when the horn was curved to a wide arch,145
+He twang’d it. Whizz’d the bowstring, and the reed
+Leap’d off, impatient for the distant throng.
+Thee, Menelaus, then the blessed Gods
+Forgat not; Pallas huntress of the spoil,
+Thy guardian then, baffled the cruel dart.150
+Far as a mother wafts the fly aside[7]
+That haunts her slumbering babe, so far she drove
+Its course aslant, directing it herself
+Against the golden clasps that join’d his belt;
+For there the doubled hauberk interposed.155
+The bitter arrow plunged into his belt.
+It pierced his broider’d belt, stood fixt within
+His twisted hauberk, nor the interior quilt,
+Though penetrable least to arrow-points
+And his best guard, withheld it, but it pass’d160
+That also, and the Hero’s skin inscribed.
+Quick flowed a sable current from the wound.
+As when a Carian or Mæonian maid
+Impurples ivory ordain’d to grace
+The cheek of martial steed; safe stored it lies,165
+By many a Chief desired, but proves at last
+The stately trapping of some prince,[8] the pride
+Of his high pamper’d steed, nor less his own;
+Such, Menelaus, seem’d thy shapely thighs,
+Thy legs, thy feet, stained with thy trickling blood.170
+Shudder’d King Agamemnon when he saw
+The blood fast trickling from the wound, nor less
+Shudder’d himself the bleeding warrior bold.
+But neck and barb observing from the flesh
+Extant, he gather’d heart, and lived again.175
+The royal Agamemnon, sighing, grasp’d
+The hand of Menelaus, and while all
+Their followers sigh’d around them, thus began.[9]
+
+I swore thy death, my brother, when I swore
+This truce, and set thee forth in sight of Greeks180
+And Trojans, our sole champion; for the foe
+Hath trodden underfoot his sacred oath,
+And stained it with thy blood. But not in vain,
+The truce was ratified, the blood of lambs
+Poured forth, libation made, and right hands join’d185
+In holy confidence. The wrath of Jove
+May sleep, but will not always; they shall pay
+Dear penalty; their own obnoxious heads
+Shall be the mulct, their children and their wives.
+For this I know, know surely; that a day190
+Shall come, when Ilium, when the warlike King
+Of Ilium and his host shall perish all.
+Saturnian Jove high-throned, dwelling in heaven,
+Resentful of this outrage, then shall shake
+His storm-clad Ægis over them. He will;195
+I speak no fable. Time shall prove me true.
+But, oh my Menelaus, dire distress
+Awaits me, if thy close of life be come,
+And thou must die. Then ignominy foul
+Shall hunt me back to Argos long-desired;200
+For then all here will recollect their home,
+And, hope abandoning, will Helen yield
+To be the boast of Priam, and of Troy.
+So shall our toils be vain, and while thy bones
+Shall waste these clods beneath, Troy’s haughty sons205
+The tomb of Menelaus glory-crown’d
+Insulting barbarous, shall scoff at me.
+So may Atrides, shall they say, perform
+His anger still as he performed it here,
+Whither he led an unsuccessful host,210
+Whence he hath sail’d again without the spoils,
+And where he left his brother’s bones to rot.
+So shall the Trojan speak; then open earth
+Her mouth, and hide me in her deepest gulfs!
+But him, the hero of the golden locks215
+Thus cheer’d. My brother, fear not, nor infect
+With fear the Grecians; the sharp-pointed reed
+Hath touch’d no vital part. The broider’d zone,
+The hauberk, and the tough interior quilt,
+Work of the armorer, its force repress’d.220
+Him answer’d Agamemnon, King of men.
+So be it brother! but the hand of one
+Skilful to heal shall visit and shall dress
+The wound with drugs of pain-assuaging power.
+He ended, and his noble herald, next,225
+Bespake, Talthybius. Haste, call hither quick
+The son of Æsculapius, leech renown’d,
+The prince Machaon. Bid him fly to attend
+The warlike Chieftain Menelaus; him
+Some archer, either Lycian or of Troy,230
+A dexterous one, hath stricken with a shaft
+To his own glory, and to our distress.
+He spake, nor him the herald disobey’d,
+But through the Greeks bright-arm’d his course began
+The Hero seeking earnest on all sides235
+Machaon. Him, ere long, he station’d saw
+Amid the shielded-ranks of his brave band
+From steed-famed Tricca drawn, and at his side
+With accents ardor-wing’d, him thus address’d.
+Haste, Asclepiades! The King of men240
+Calls thee. Delay not. Thou must visit quick
+Brave Menelaus, Atreus’ son, for him
+Some archer, either Lycian or of Troy,
+A dexterous one, hath stricken with a shaft
+To his own glory, and to our distress.245
+So saying, he roused Machaon, who his course
+Through the wide host began. Arriving soon
+Where wounded Menelaus stood, while all
+The bravest of Achaia’s host around
+The godlike hero press’d, he strove at once250
+To draw the arrow from his cincture forth.
+But, drawing, bent the barbs. He therefore loosed
+His broider’d belt, his hauberk and his quilt,
+Work of the armorer, and laying bare
+His body where the bitter shaft had plow’d255
+His flesh, he suck’d the wound, then spread it o’er
+With drugs of balmy power, given on a time
+For friendship’s sake by Chiron to his sire.
+While Menelaus thus the cares engross’d
+Of all those Chiefs, the shielded powers of Troy260
+’Gan move toward them, and the Greeks again
+Put on their armor, mindful of the fight.
+Then hadst thou[10] not great Agamemnon seen
+Slumbering, or trembling, or averse from war,
+But ardent to begin his glorious task.265
+His steeds, and his bright chariot brass-inlaid
+He left; the snorting steeds Eurymedon,
+Offspring of Ptolemy Piraïdes
+Detain’d apart; for him he strict enjoin’d
+Attendance near, lest weariness of limbs270
+Should seize him marshalling his numerous host.
+So forth he went, and through the files on foot
+Proceeding, where the warrior Greeks he saw
+Alert, he roused them by his words the more.[11]
+Argives! abate no spark of all your fire.275
+Jove will not prosper traitors. Them who first
+Transgress’d the truce the vultures shall devour,
+But we (their city taken) shall their wives
+Lead captive, and their children home to Greece.
+So cheer’d he them. But whom he saw supine,280
+Or in the rugged work of war remiss,
+In terms of anger them he stern rebuked.
+Oh Greeks! The shame of Argos! Arrow-doom’d!
+Blush ye not? Wherefore stand ye thus aghast,
+Like fawns which wearied after scouring wide285
+The champain, gaze and pant, and can no more?
+Senseless like them ye stand, nor seek the fight.
+Is it your purpose patient here to wait
+Till Troy invade your vessels on the shore
+Of the grey deep, that ye may trial make290
+Of Jove, if he will prove, himself, your shield?
+Thus, in discharge of his high office, pass’d
+Atrides through the ranks, and now arrived
+Where, hardy Chief! Idomeneus in front
+Of his bold Cretans stood, stout as a boar295
+The van he occupied, while in the rear
+Meriones harangued the most remote.
+Them so prepared the King of men beheld
+With joyful heart, and thus in courteous terms
+Instant the brave Idomeneus address’d.300
+Thee fighting, feasting, howsoe’er employed,
+I most respect, Idomeneus, of all
+The well-horsed Danäi; for when the Chiefs
+Of Argos, banqueting, their beakers charge
+With rosy wine the honorable meed305
+Of valor, thou alone of all the Greeks
+Drink’st not by measure.[12] No—thy goblet stands
+Replenish’d still, and like myself thou know’st
+No rule or bound, save what thy choice prescribes.
+March. Seek the foe. Fight now as heretofore,310
+To whom Idomeneus of Crete replied,
+Atrides! all the friendship and the love
+Which I have promised will I well perform.
+Go; animate the rest, Chief after Chief
+Of the Achaians, that the fight begin.315
+For Troy has scatter’d to the winds all faith,
+All conscience; and for such her treachery foul
+Shall have large recompence of death and wo.
+He said, whom Agamemnon at his heart
+Exulting, pass’d, and in his progress came320
+Where stood each Ajax; them he found prepared
+With all their cloud of infantry behind.
+As when the goat-herd on some rocky point
+Advanced, a cloud sees wafted o’er the deep
+By western gales, and rolling slow along,325
+To him, who stands remote, pitch-black it seems,
+And comes with tempest charged; he at the sight
+Shuddering, his flock compels into a cave;
+So moved the gloomy phalanx, rough with spears,
+And dense with shields of youthful warriors bold,330
+Close-following either Ajax to the fight.
+Them also, pleased, the King of men beheld,
+And in wing’d accents hail’d them as he pass’d.
+Brave leaders of the mail-clad host of Greece!
+I move not you to duty; ye yourselves335
+Move others, and no lesson need from me.
+Jove, Pallas, and Apollo! were but all
+Courageous as yourselves, soon Priam’s towers
+Should totter, and his Ilium storm’d and sack’d
+By our victorious bands, stoop to the dust.340
+He ceased, and still proceeding, next arrived
+Where stood the Pylian orator, his band
+Marshalling under all their leaders bold
+Alastor, Chromius, Pelagon the vast,
+Hæmon the prince, and Bias, martial Chief.345
+Chariot and horse he station’d in the front;
+His numerous infantry, a strong reserve
+Right valiant, in the rear; the worst, and those
+In whom he trusted least, he drove between,
+That such through mere necessity might act.350
+First to his charioteers he gave in charge
+Their duty; bade them rein their horses hard,
+Shunning confusion. Let no warrior, vain
+And overweening of his strength or skill,
+Start from his rank to dare the fight alone,355
+Or fall behind it, weakening whom he leaves.
+[13]And if, dismounted from his own, he climb
+Another’s chariot, let him not affect
+Perverse the reins, but let him stand, his spear
+Advancing firm, far better so employ’d.360
+Such was the discipline, in ancient times,
+Of our forefathers; by these rules they fought
+Successful, and laid many a city low.
+So counsell’d them the venerable Chief
+Long time expert in arms; him also saw365
+King Agamemnon with delight, and said,
+Old Chief! ah how I wish, that thy firm heart
+Were but supported by as firm a knee!
+But time unhinges all. Oh that some youth
+Had thine old age, and thou wast young again!370
+To whom the valiant Nestor thus replied.
+Atrides, I could also ardent wish
+That I were now robust as when I struck
+Brave Ereuthalion[14] breathless to the ground!
+But never all their gifts the Gods confer375
+On man at once; if then I had the force
+Of youth, I suffer now the effects of age.
+Yet ancient as I am, I will be seen
+Still mingling with the charioteers, still prompt
+To give them counsel; for to counsel youth380
+Is the old warrior’s province. Let the green
+In years, my juniors, unimpaired by time,
+Push with the lance, for they have strength to boast.
+So he, whom Agamemnon joyful heard,
+And passing thence, the son of Peteos found385
+Menestheus, foremost in equestrian fame,
+Among the brave Athenians; near to him
+Ulysses held his station, and at hand
+The Cephallenians stood, hardy and bold;
+For rumor none of the approaching fight390
+Them yet had reach’d, so recent had the stir
+Arisen in either host; they, therefore, watch’d
+Till the example of some other band
+Marching, should prompt them to begin the fight,
+But Agamemnon, thus, the King of men395
+Them seeing, sudden and severe reproved.
+Menestheus, son of Peteos prince renown’d,
+And thou, deviser of all evil wiles!
+Adept in artifice! why stand ye here
+Appall’d? why wait ye on this distant spot400
+Till others move? I might expect from you
+More readiness to meet the burning war,
+Whom foremost I invite of all to share
+The banquet, when the Princes feast with me.
+There ye are prompt; ye find it pleasant there405
+To eat your savory food, and quaff your wine
+Delicious till satiety ensue;
+But here you could be well content to stand
+Spectators only, while ten Grecian troops
+Should wage before you the wide-wasting war.410
+To whom Ulysses, with resentful tone
+Dark-frowning, thus replied. What words are these
+Which have escaped thy lips; and for what cause,
+Atrides, hast thou call’d me slow to fight?
+When we of Greece shall in sharp contest clash415
+With you steed-tamer Trojans, mark me then;
+Then thou shalt see (if the concerns of war
+So nearly touch thee, and thou so incline)
+The father of Telemachus, engaged
+Among the foremost Trojans. But thy speech420
+Was light as is the wind, and rashly made.
+When him thus moved he saw, the monarch smiled
+Complacent, and in gentler terms replied.
+Laërtes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!
+Short reprimand and exhortation short425
+Suffice for thee, nor did I purpose more.
+For I have known thee long, that thou art one
+Of kindest nature, and so much my friend
+That we have both one heart. Go therefore thou,
+Lead on, and if a word have fallen amiss,430
+We will hereafter mend it, and may heaven
+Obliterate in thine heart its whole effect!
+He ceased, and ranging still along the line,
+The son of Tydeus, Diomede, perceived,
+Heroic Chief, by chariots all around435
+Environ’d, and by steeds, at side of whom
+Stood Sthenelus, the son of Capaneus.
+Him also, Agamemnon, King of men,
+In accents of asperity reproved.
+Ah, son of Tydeus, Chief of dauntless heart440
+And of equestrian fame! why standest thou
+Appall’d, and peering through the walks of war?
+So did not Tydeus. In the foremost fight
+His favorite station was, as they affirm
+Who witness’d his exploits; I never saw445
+Or met him, but by popular report
+He was the bravest warrior of his day.
+Yet came he once, but not in hostile sort,
+To fair Mycenæ, by the godlike prince
+Attended, Polynices, at what time450
+The host was called together, and the siege
+Was purposed of the sacred city Thebes.
+Earnest they sued for an auxiliar band,
+Which we had gladly granted, but that Jove
+By unpropitious tokens interfered.455
+So forth they went, and on the reedy banks
+Arriving of Asopus, there thy sire
+By designation of the Greeks was sent
+Ambassador, and enter’d Thebes. He found
+In Eteocles’ palace numerous guests,460
+The sons of Cadmus feasting, among whom,
+Although a solitary stranger, stood
+Thy father without fear, and challenged forth
+Their best to cope with him in manly games.
+Them Tydeus vanquish’d easily, such aid465
+Pallas vouchsafed him. Then the spur-arm’d race
+Of Cadmus was incensed, and fifty youths
+In ambush close expected his return.
+Them, Lycophontes obstinate in fight,
+Son of Autophonus, and Mæon, son470
+Of Hæmon, Chief of godlike stature, led.
+Those also Tydeus slew; Mæon except,
+(Whom, warned from heaven, he spared, and sent him home
+With tidings of the rest) he slew them all.
+Such was Ætolian Tydeus; who begat475
+A son in speech his better, not in arms.
+He ended, and his sovereign’s awful voice
+Tydides reverencing, nought replied;
+But thus the son of glorious Capaneus.
+Atrides, conscious of the truth, speak truth.480
+We with our sires compared, superior praise
+Claim justly.[15] We, confiding in the aid
+Of Jove, and in propitious signs from heaven,
+Led to the city consecrate to Mars
+Our little host, inferior far to theirs,485
+And took seven-gated Thebes, under whose walls
+Our fathers by their own imprudence fell.
+Their glory, then, match never more with ours.
+He spake, whom with a frowning brow the brave
+Tydides answer’d. Sthenelus, my friend!490
+I give thee counsel. Mark it. Hold thy peace.
+If Agamemnon, who hath charge of all,
+Excite his well-appointed host to war,
+He hath no blame from me. For should the Greeks
+(Her people vanquished) win imperial Troy,495
+The glory shall be his; or, if his host
+O’erpower’d in battle perish, his the shame.
+Come, therefore; be it ours to rouse at once
+To action all the fury of our might.
+He said, and from his chariot to the plain500
+Leap’d ardent; rang the armor on the breast
+Of the advancing Chief; the boldest heart
+Had felt emotion, startled at the sound.
+As when the waves by Zephyrus up-heaved
+Crowd fast toward some sounding shore, at first,505
+On the broad bosom of the deep their heads
+They curl on high, then breaking on the land
+Thunder, and o’er the rocks that breast the flood
+Borne turgid, scatter far the showery spray;
+So moved the Greeks successive, rank by rank,510
+And phalanx after phalanx, every Chief
+His loud command proclaiming, while the rest,
+As voice in all those thousands none had been
+Heard mute; and, in resplendent armor clad,
+With martial order terrible advanced.515
+Not so the Trojans came. As sheep, the flock
+Of some rich man, by thousands in his court
+Penn’d close at milking time, incessant bleat,
+Loud answering all their bleating lambs without,
+Such din from Ilium’s wide-spread host arose.520
+Nor was their shout, nor was their accent one,
+But mingled languages were heard of men
+From various climes. These Mars to battle roused,
+Those Pallas azure-eyed; nor Terror thence
+Nor Flight was absent, nor insatiate Strife,525
+Sister and mate of homicidal Mars,
+Who small at first, but swift to grow, from earth
+Her towering crest lifts gradual to the skies.
+She, foe alike to both, the brands dispersed
+Of burning hate between them, and the woes530
+Enhanced of battle wheresoe’er she pass’d.
+And now the battle join’d. Shield clash’d with shield[16]
+And spear with spear, conflicting corselets rang,
+Boss’d bucklers met, and tumult wild arose.
+Then, many a yell was heard, and many a shout535
+Loud intermix’d, the slayer o’er the maim’d
+Exulting, and the field was drench’d with blood.
+As when two winter torrents rolling down
+The mountains, shoot their floods through gulleys huge
+Into one gulf below, station’d remote540
+The shepherd in the uplands hears the roar;
+Such was the thunder of the mingling hosts.
+And first, Antilochus a Trojan Chief
+Slew Echepolus, from Thalysias sprung,
+Contending valiant in the van of Troy.545
+Him smiting on his crested casque, he drove
+The brazen lance into his front, and pierced
+The bones within; night overspread his eyes,
+And in fierce battle, like a tower, he fell.
+Him fallen by both feet Calchodon’s son550
+Seized, royal Elephenor, leader brave
+Of the Abantes, and in haste to strip
+His armor, drew him from the fight aside.
+But short was that attempt. Him so employ’d
+Dauntless Agenor mark’d, and as he stoop’d,555
+In his unshielded flank a pointed spear
+Implanted deep; he languid sunk and died.
+So Elephenor fell, for whom arose
+Sharp conflict; Greeks and Trojans mutual flew
+Like wolves to battle, and man grappled man.560
+Then Telamonian Ajax, in his prime
+Of youthful vigor Simöisius slew,[17]
+Son of Anthemion. Him on Simoïs’ banks
+His mother bore, when with her parents once
+She came from Ida down to view the flocks,565
+And thence they named him; but his parents’
+He lived not to requite, in early youth
+Slain by the spear of Ajax famed in arms.
+For him advancing Ajax at the pap
+Wounded; right through his shoulder driven the point570
+Stood forth behind; he fell, and press’d the dust.
+So in some spacious marsh the poplar falls
+Smooth-skinn’d, with boughs unladen save aloft;
+Some chariot-builder with his axe the trunk
+Severs, that he may warp it to a wheel575
+Of shapely form; meantime exposed it lies
+To parching airs beside the running stream;
+Such Simöisius seemed, Anthemion’s son,
+Whom noble Ajax slew. But soon at him
+Antiphus, son of Priam, bright in arms,580
+Hurl’d through the multitude his pointed spear.
+He erred from Ajax, but he pierced the groin
+Of Leucus, valiant warrior of the band
+Led by Ulysses. He the body dragg’d
+Apart, but fell beside it, and let fall,585
+Breathless himself, the burthen from his hand.
+Then burn’d Ulysses’ wrath for Leucus slain,
+And through the foremost combatants, array’d
+In dazzling arms, he rush’d. Full near he stood,
+And, looking keen around him, hurl’d a lance.590
+Back fell the Trojans from before the face
+Dispersed of great Ulysses. Not in vain
+His weapon flew, but on the field outstretch’d
+A spurious son of Priam, from the shores
+Call’d of Abydus famed for fleetest mares,595
+Democoon; him, for Leucus’ sake enraged,
+Ulysses through both temples with his spear
+Transpierced. The night of death hung on his eyes,
+And sounding on his batter’d arms he fell.
+Then Hector and the van of Troy retired;600
+Loud shout the Grecians; these draw off the dead,
+Those onward march amain, and from the heights
+Of Pergamus Apollo looking down
+In anger, to the Trojans called aloud.
+Turn, turn, ye Trojans! face your Grecian foes.605
+They, like yourselves, are vulnerable flesh,
+Not adamant or steel. Your direst dread
+Achilles, son of Thetis radiant-hair’d,
+Fights not, but sullen in his fleet abides.[18]
+Such from the citadel was heard the voice610
+Of dread Apollo. But Minerva ranged
+Meantime, Tritonian progeny of Jove,
+The Grecians, rousing whom she saw remiss.
+Then Amarynceus’ son, Diores, felt
+The force of fate, bruised by a rugged rock615
+At his right heel, which Pirus, Thracian Chief,
+The son of Imbrasus of Ænos, threw.
+Bones and both tendons in its fall the mass
+Enormous crush’d. He, stretch’d in dust supine,
+With palms outspread toward his warrior friends620
+Lay gasping life away. But he who gave
+The fatal blow, Pirus, advancing, urged
+Into his navel a keen lance, and shed
+His bowels forth; then, darkness veil’d his eyes.
+Nor Pirus long survived; him through the breast625
+Above the pap, Ætolian Thoas pierced,
+And in his lungs set fast the quivering spear.
+Then Thoas swift approach’d, pluck’d from the wound
+His stormy spear, and with his falchion bright
+Gashing his middle belly, stretch’d him dead.630
+Yet stripp’d he not the slain, whom with long spears
+His Thracians hairy-scalp’d[19] so round about
+Encompassed, that though bold and large of limb
+Were Thoas, from before them him they thrust
+Staggering and reeling in his forced retreat.635
+They therefore in the dust, the Epean Chief
+Diores, and the Thracian, Pirus lay
+Stretch’d side by side, with numerous slain around.
+Then had Minerva led through all that field
+Some warrior yet unhurt, him sheltering safe640
+From all annoyance dread of dart or spear,
+No cause of blame in either had he found
+That day, so many Greeks and Trojans press’d,
+Extended side by side, the dusty plain.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK V.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE FIFTH BOOK.
+
+Diomede is extraordinarily distinguished. He kills Pandarus, who had
+violated the truce, and wounds first Venus and then Mars.
+
+
+BOOK V.
+
+
+Then Athenæan Pallas on the son
+Of Tydeus,[1] Diomede, new force conferr’d
+And daring courage, that the Argives all
+He might surpass, and deathless fame achieve.
+Fires on his helmet and his shield around5
+She kindled, bright and steady as the star
+Autumnal,[2] which in Ocean newly bathed
+Assumes fresh beauty; with such glorious beams
+His head encircling and his shoulders broad,
+She urged him forth into the thickest fight.10
+There lived a man in Troy, Dares his name,
+The priest of Vulcan; rich he was and good,
+The father of two sons, Idæus this,
+That, Phegeus call’d; accomplish’d warriors both.
+These, issuing from their phalanx, push’d direct15
+Their steeds at Diomede, who fought on foot.
+When now small interval was left between,
+First Phegeus his long-shadow’d spear dismiss’d;
+But over Diomede’s left shoulder pass’d
+The point, innocuous. Then his splendid lance20
+Tydides hurl’d; nor ineffectual flew
+The weapon from his hand, but Phegeus pierced
+His paps between, and forced him to the ground.
+At once, his sumptuous chariot left, down leap’d
+Idæsus, wanting courage to defend25
+His brother slain; nor had he scaped himself
+His louring fate, but Vulcan, to preserve
+His ancient priest from unmixt sorrow, snatch’d
+The fugitive in darkness wrapt, away.
+Then brave Tydides, driving off the steeds,30
+Consign’d them to his fellow-warriors’ care,
+That they might lead them down into the fleet.
+The valiant Trojans, when they saw the sons
+Of Dares, one beside his chariot slain,
+And one by flight preserved, through all their host35
+Felt consternation. Then Minerva seized
+The hand of fiery Mars, and thus she spake.
+Gore-tainted homicide, town-battering Mars!
+Leave we the Trojans and the Greeks to wage
+Fierce fight alone, Jove prospering whom he will,40
+So shall we not provoke our father’s ire.
+She said, and from the fight conducted forth
+The impetuous Deity, whom on the side
+She seated of Scamander deep-embank’d.[3]
+And now the host of Troy to flight inclined45
+Before the Grecians, and the Chiefs of Greece
+Each slew a warrior. Agamemnon first
+Gigantic Odius from his chariot hurl’d.
+Chief of the Halizonians. He to flight
+Turn’d foremost, when the monarch in his spine50
+Between the shoulder-bones his spear infixt,
+And urged it through his breast. Sounding he fell,
+And loud his batter’d armor rang around.
+By brave Idomeneus a Lydian died,
+Phæstus, from fruitful Tarne sent to Troy,55
+Son of Mæonian Borus; him his steeds
+Mounting, Idomeneus the spear-renown’d
+Through his right shoulder pierced; unwelcome night
+Involved him; from his chariot down he fell,[4]
+And the attendant Cretans stripp’d his arms.60
+But Menelaus, son of Atreus slew
+With his bright spear Scamandrius, Stropius’ son,
+A skilful hunter; for Diana him,
+Herself, the slaughter of all savage kinds
+Had taught, on mountain or in forest bred.65
+But she, shaft-aiming Goddess, in that hour
+Avail’d him not, nor his own matchless skill;
+For Menelaus, Atreus son spear-famed,
+Him flying wounded in the spine between
+His shoulders, and the spear urged through his breast.70
+Prone on his loud-resounding arms he fell.
+Next, by Meriones, Phereclus died,
+Son of Harmonides. All arts that ask
+A well-instructed hand his sire had learn’d,
+For Pallas dearly loved him. He the fleet,75
+Prime source of harm to Troy and to himself,
+For Paris built, unskill’d to spell aright
+The oracles predictive of the wo.
+Phereclus fled; Meriones his flight
+Outstripping, deep in his posterior flesh80
+A spear infix’d; sliding beneath the bone
+It grazed his bladder as it pass’d, and stood
+Protruded far before. Low on his knees
+Phereclus sank, and with a shriek expired.
+Pedæus, whom, although his spurious son,85
+Antenor’s wife, to gratify her lord,
+Had cherish’d as her own—him Meges slew.
+Warlike Phylides[5] following close his flight,
+His keen lance drove into his poll, cut sheer
+His tongue within, and through his mouth enforced90
+The glittering point. He, prostrate in the dust,
+The cold steel press’d between his teeth and died.
+Eurypylus, Evemon’s son, the brave
+Hypsenor slew; Dolopion was his sire,
+Priest of Scamander, reverenced as a God.95
+In vain before Eurypylus he fled;
+He, running, with his falchion lopp’d his arm
+Fast by the shoulder; on the field his hand
+Fell blood-distained, and destiny severe
+With shades of death for ever veil’d his eyes.100
+Thus strenuous they the toilsome battle waged.
+But where Tydides fought, whether in aid
+Of Ilium’s host, or on the part of Greece,
+Might none discern. For as a winter-flood
+Impetuous, mounds and bridges sweeps away;[6]105
+The buttress’d bridge checks not its sudden force,
+The firm inclosure of vine-planted fields
+Luxuriant, falls before it; finish’d works
+Of youthful hinds, once pleasant to the eye,
+Now levell’d, after ceaseless rain from Jove;110
+So drove Tydides into sudden flight
+The Trojans; phalanx after phalanx fled
+Before the terror of his single arm.
+When him Lycaon’s son illustrious saw
+Scouring the field, and from before his face115
+The ranks dispersing wide, at once he bent
+Against Tydides his elastic bow.
+The arrow met him in his swift career
+Sure-aim’d; it struck direct the hollow mail
+Of his right shoulder, with resistless force120
+Transfix’d it, and his hauberk stain’d with blood.
+Loud shouted then Lycaon’s son renown’d.
+Rush on, ye Trojans, spur your coursers hard.
+Our fiercest foe is wounded, and I deem
+His death not distant far, if me the King[7]125
+Jove’s son, indeed, from Lycia sent to Troy.
+So boasted Pandarus. Yet him the dart
+Quell’d not. Retreating, at his coursers’ heads
+He stood, and to the son of Capaneus
+His charioteer and faithful friend he said.130
+Arise, sweet son of Capaneus, dismount,
+And from my shoulder draw this bitter shaft.
+He spake; at once the son of Capaneus
+Descending, by its barb the bitter shaft
+Drew forth; blood spouted through his twisted mail135
+Incontinent, and thus the Hero pray’d.
+Unconquer’d daughter of Jove Ægis-arm’d!
+If ever me, propitious, or my sire
+Thou hast in furious fight help’d heretofore,
+Now aid me also. Bring within the reach140
+Of my swift spear, Oh grant me to strike through
+The warrior who hath check’d my course, and boasts
+The sun’s bright beams for ever quench’d to me![8]
+He prayed, and Pallas heard; she braced his limbs,
+She wing’d him with alacrity divine,145
+And, standing at his side, him thus bespake.
+Now Diomede, be bold! Fight now with Troy.
+To thee, thy father’s spirit I impart
+Fearless; shield-shaking Tydeus felt the same.
+I also from thine eye the darkness purge150
+Which dimm’d thy sight[9] before, that thou may’st know
+Both Gods and men; should, therefore, other God
+Approach to try thee, fight not with the powers
+Immortal; but if foam-born Venus come,
+Her spare not. Wound her with thy glittering spear.155
+So spake the blue-eyed Deity, and went,
+Then with the champions in the van again
+Tydides mingled; hot before, he fights
+With threefold fury now, nor less enraged
+Than some gaunt lion whom o’erleaping light160
+The fold, a shepherd hath but gall’d, not kill’d,
+Him irritating more; thenceforth the swain
+Lurks unresisting; flies the abandon’d flock;
+Heaps slain on heaps he leaves, and with a bound
+Surmounting all impediment, escapes;165
+Such seem’d the valiant Diomede incensed
+To fury, mingling with the host of Troy.
+Astynoüs and Hypenor first he slew;
+One with his brazen lance above the pap
+He pierced, and one with his huge falchion smote170
+Fast by the key-bone,[10] from the neck and spine
+His parted shoulder driving at a blow.
+Them leaving, Polyides next he sought
+And Abas, sons of a dream-dealing seer,
+Eurydamas; their hoary father’s dreams175
+Or not interpreted, or kept concealed,
+Them saved not, for by Diomede they died.
+Xanthus and Thöon he encounter’d next,
+Both sons of Phænops, sons of his old age,
+Who other heir had none of all his wealth,180
+Nor hoped another, worn with many years.
+Tydides slew them both; nor aught remain’d
+To the old man but sorrow for his sons
+For ever lost, and strangers were his heirs.
+Two sons of Priam in one chariot borne185
+Echemon next, and Chromius felt his hand
+Resistless. As a lion on the herd
+Leaping, while they the shrubs and bushes browse,
+Breaks short the neck of heifer or of steer,
+So them, though clinging fast and loth to fall,190
+Tydides hurl’d together to the ground,
+Then stripp’d their splendid armor, and the steeds
+Consigned and chariot to his soldiers’ care.
+Æneas him discern’d scattering the ranks,
+And through the battle and the clash of spears195
+Went seeking godlike Pandarus; ere long
+Finding Lycaon’s martial son renown’d,
+He stood before him, and him thus address’d.
+Thy bow, thy feather’d shafts, and glorious name
+Where are they, Pandarus? whom none of Troy200
+Could equal, whom of Lycia, none excel.
+Come. Lift thine hands to Jove, and at yon Chief
+Dispatch an arrow, who afflicts the host
+Of Ilium thus, conquering where’er he flies,
+And who hath slaughter’d numerous brave in arms,205
+But him some Deity I rather deem
+Avenging on us his neglected rites,
+And who can stand before an angry God?
+Him answer’d then Lycaon’s son renown’d.
+Brave leader of the Trojans brazen-mail’d,210
+Æneas! By his buckler which I know,
+And by his helmet’s height, considering, too
+His steeds, I deem him Diomede the bold;
+Yet such pronounce him not, who seems a God.
+But if bold Diomede indeed he be215
+Of whom I speak, not without aid from heaven
+His fury thus prevails, but at his side
+Some God, in clouds enveloped, turns away
+From him the arrow to a devious course.
+Already, at his shoulder’s hollow mail220
+My shaft hath pierced him through, and him I deem’d
+Dismiss’d full sure to Pluto ere his time
+But he survives; whom therefore I at last
+Perforce conclude some angry Deity.
+Steeds have I none or chariot to ascend,225
+Who have eleven chariots in the stands
+Left of Lycaon, with fair hangings all
+O’ermantled, strong, new finish’d, with their steeds
+In pairs beside them, eating winnow’d grain.
+Me much Lycaon my old valiant sire230
+At my departure from his palace gates
+Persuaded, that my chariot and my steeds
+Ascending, I should so conduct my bands
+To battle; counsel wise, and ill-refused!
+But anxious, lest (the host in Troy so long235
+Immew’d) my steeds, fed plenteously at home,
+Should here want food, I left them, and on foot
+To Ilium came, confiding in my bow
+Ordain’d at last to yield me little good.
+Twice have I shot, and twice I struck the mark,240
+First Menelaus, and Tydides next;
+From each I drew the blood, true, genuine blood,
+Yet have but more incensed them. In an hour
+Unfortunate, I therefore took my bow
+Down from the wall that day, when for the sake245
+Of noble Hector, to these pleasant plains
+I came, a leader on the part of Troy.
+But should I once return, and with these eyes
+Again behold my native land, my sire,
+My wife, my stately mansion, may the hand,250
+That moment, of some adversary there
+Shorten me by the head, if I not snap
+This bow with which I charged myself in vain,
+And burn the unprofitable tool to dust.
+To whom Æneas, Trojan Chief, replied.255
+Nay, speak not so. For ere that hour arrive
+We will, with chariot and with horse, in arms
+Encounter him, and put his strength to proof.
+Delay not, mount my chariot. Thou shalt see
+With what rapidity the steeds of Troy260
+Pursuing or retreating, scour the field.
+If after all, Jove purpose still to exalt
+The son of Tydeus, these shall bear us safe
+Back to the city. Come then. Let us on.
+The lash take thou, and the resplendent reins,265
+While I alight for battle, or thyself
+Receive them, and the steeds shall be my care.
+Him answer’d then Lycaon’s son renown’d.
+Æneas! manage thou the reins, and guide
+Thy proper steeds. If fly at last we must270
+The son of Tydeus, they will readier draw
+Directed by their wonted charioteer.
+Else, terrified, and missing thy control,
+They may refuse to bear us from the fight,
+And Tydeus’ son assailing us, with ease275
+Shall slay us both, and drive thy steeds away.
+Rule therefore thou the chariot, and myself
+With my sharp spear will his assault receive.
+So saying, they mounted both, and furious drove
+Against Tydides. Them the noble son280
+Of Capaneus observed, and turning quick
+His speech to Diomede, him thus address’d.
+Tydides, Diomede, my heart’s delight!
+Two warriors of immeasurable force
+In battle, ardent to contend with thee,285
+Come rattling on. Lycaon’s offspring one,
+Bow-practised Pandarus; with whom appears
+Æneas; he who calls the mighty Chief
+Anchises father, and whom Venus bore.
+Mount—drive we swift away—lest borne so far290
+Beyond the foremost battle, thou be slain.
+To whom, dark-frowning, Diomede replied
+Speak not of flight to me, who am disposed
+To no such course. I am ashamed to fly
+Or tremble, and my strength is still entire;295
+I cannot mount. No. Rather thus, on foot,
+I will advance against them. Fear and dread
+Are not for me; Pallas forbids the thought.
+One falls, be sure; swift as they are, the steeds
+That whirl them on, shall never rescue both.300
+But hear my bidding, and hold fast the word.
+Should all-wise Pallas grant me my desire
+To slay them both, drive not my coursers hence,
+But hook the reins, and seizing quick the pair
+That draw Æneas, urge them from the powers305
+Of Troy away into the host of Greece.
+For they are sprung from those which Jove to Tros
+In compensation gave for Ganymede;
+The Sun himself sees not their like below.
+Anchises, King of men, clandestine them310
+Obtain’d, his mares submitting to the steeds
+Of King Laomedon. Six brought him foals;
+Four to himself reserving, in his stalls
+He fed them sleek, and two he gave his son:
+These, might we win them, were a noble prize.315
+Thus mutual they conferr’d; those Chiefs, the while,
+With swiftest pace approach’d, and first his speech
+To Diomede Lycaon’s son address’d.
+Heroic offspring of a noble sire,
+Brave son of Tydeus! false to my intent320
+My shaft hath harm’d thee little. I will now
+Make trial with my spear, if that may speed.
+He said, and shaking his long-shadow’d spear,
+Dismiss’d it. Forceful on the shield it struck
+Of Diomede, transpierced it, and approach’d325
+With threatening point the hauberk on his breast.
+Loud shouted Pandarus—Ah nobly thrown!
+Home to thy bowels. Die, for die thou must,
+And all the glory of thy death is mine.
+Then answer thus brave Diomede return’d330
+Undaunted. I am whole. Thy cast was short.
+But ye desist not, as I plain perceive,
+Till one at least extended on the plain
+Shall sate the God of battles with his blood.
+He said and threw. Pallas the spear herself335
+Directed; at his eye fast by the nose
+Deep-entering, through his ivory teeth it pass’d,
+At its extremity divided sheer
+His tongue, and started through his chin below.
+He headlong fell, and with his dazzling arms340
+Smote full the plain. Back flew the fiery steeds
+With swift recoil, and where he fell he died.
+Then sprang Æneas forth with spear and shield,
+That none might drag the body;[11] lion-like
+He stalk’d around it, oval shield and spear345
+Advancing firm, and with incessant cries
+Terrific, death denouncing on his foes.
+But Diomede with hollow grasp a stone
+Enormous seized, a weight to overtask
+Two strongest men of such as now are strong,350
+Yet he, alone, wielded the rock with ease.
+Full on the hip he smote him, where the thigh
+Rolls in its cavity, the socket named.
+He crushed the socket, lacerated wide
+Both tendons, and with that rough-angled mass355
+Flay’d all his flesh, The Hero on his knees
+Sank, on his ample palm his weight upbore
+Laboring, and darkness overspread his eyes.
+There had Æneas perish’d, King of men,
+Had not Jove’s daughter Venus quick perceived360
+His peril imminent, whom she had borne
+Herself to Anchises pasturing his herds.
+Her snowy arras her darling son around
+She threw maternal, and behind a fold
+Of her bright mantle screening close his breast365
+From mortal harm by some brave Grecian’s spear,
+Stole him with eager swiftness from the fight.
+Nor then forgat brave Sthenelus his charge
+Received from Diomede, but his own steeds
+Detaining distant from the boisterous war,370
+Stretch’d tight the reins, and hook’d them fast behind.
+The coursers of Æneas next he seized
+Ardent, and them into the host of Greece
+Driving remote, consign’d them to his care,
+Whom far above all others his compeers375
+He loved, Deipylus, his bosom friend
+Congenial. Him he charged to drive them thence
+Into the fleet, then, mounting swift his own,
+Lash’d after Diomede; he, fierce in arms,
+Pursued the Cyprian Goddess, conscious whom,380
+Not Pallas, not Enyo, waster dread
+Of cities close-beleaguer’d, none of all
+Who o’er the battle’s bloody course preside,
+But one of softer kind and prone to fear.
+When, therefore, her at length, after long chase385
+Through all the warring multitude he reach’d,
+With his protruded spear her gentle hand
+He wounded, piercing through her thin attire
+Ambrosial, by themselves the graces wrought,
+Her inside wrist, fast by the rosy palm.390
+Blood follow’d, but immortal; ichor pure,
+Such as the blest inhabitants of heaven
+May bleed, nectareous; for the Gods eat not
+Man’s food, nor slake as he with sable wine
+Their thirst, thence bloodless and from death exempt.395
+She, shrieking, from her arms cast down her son,
+And Phœbus, in impenetrable clouds
+Him hiding, lest the spear of some brave Greek
+Should pierce his bosom, caught him swift away.
+Then shouted brave Tydides after her—400
+Depart, Jove’s daughter! fly the bloody field.
+Is’t not enough that thou beguilest the hearts
+Of feeble women? If thou dare intrude
+Again into the war, war’s very name
+Shall make thee shudder, wheresoever heard.405
+He said, and Venus with excess of pain
+Bewilder’d went; but Iris tempest-wing’d
+Forth led her through the multitude, oppress’d
+With anguish, her white wrist to livid changed.
+They came where Mars far on the left retired410
+Of battle sat, his horses and his spear
+In darkness veil’d. Before her brother’s knees
+She fell, and with entreaties urgent sought
+The succor of his coursers golden-rein’d.
+Save me, my brother! Pity me! Thy steeds415
+Give me, that they may bear me to the heights
+Olympian, seat of the immortal Gods!
+Oh! I am wounded deep; a mortal man
+Hath done it, Diomede; nor would he fear
+This day in fight the Sire himself of all.420
+Then Mars his coursers gold-caparison’d
+Resign’d to Venus; she, with countenance sad,
+The chariot climb’d, and Iris at her side
+The bright reins seizing lash’d the ready steeds.
+Soon as the Olympian heights, seat of the Gods,425
+They reach’d, wing-footed Iris loosing quick
+The coursers, gave them large whereon to browse
+Ambrosial food; but Venus on the knees
+Sank of Dione, who with folded arms
+Maternal, to her bosom straining close430
+Her daughter, stroked her cheek, and thus inquired.
+My darling child! who? which of all the Gods
+Hath rashly done such violence to thee
+As if convicted of some open wrong?
+Her then the Goddess of love-kindling smiles435
+Venus thus answer’d; Diomede the proud,
+Audacious Diomede; he gave the wound,
+For that I stole Æneas from the fight
+My son of all mankind my most beloved;
+Nor is it now the war of Greece with Troy,440
+But of the Grecians with the Gods themselves.
+Then thus Dione, Goddess all divine.
+My child! how hard soe’er thy sufferings seem
+Endure them patiently. Full many a wrong
+From human hands profane the Gods endure,445
+And many a painful stroke, mankind from ours.
+Mars once endured much wrong, when on a time
+Him Otus bound and Ephialtes fast,
+Sons of Alöeus, and full thirteen moons
+In brazen thraldom held him. There, at length,450
+The fierce blood-nourished Mars had pined away,
+But that Eëribœa, loveliest nymph,
+His step-mother, in happy hour disclosed
+To Mercury the story of his wrongs;
+He stole the prisoner forth, but with his woes455
+Already worn, languid and fetter-gall’d.
+Nor Juno less endured, when erst the bold
+Son of Amphytrion with tridental shaft
+Her bosom pierced; she then the misery felt
+Of irremediable pain severe.460
+Nor suffer’d Pluto less, of all the Gods
+Gigantic most, by the same son of Jove
+Alcides, at the portals of the dead
+Transfix’d and fill’d with anguish; he the house
+Of Jove and the Olympian summit sought465
+Dejected, torture-stung, for sore the shaft
+Oppress’d him, into his huge shoulder driven.
+But Pæon[12] him not liable to death
+With unction smooth of salutiferous balms
+Heal’d soon. Presumptuous, sacrilegious man!470
+Careless what dire enormities he wrought,
+Who bent his bow against the powers of heaven!
+But blue-eyed Pallas instigated him
+By whom thou bleed’st. Infatuate! he forgets
+That whoso turns against the Gods his arm475
+Lives never long; he never, safe escaped
+From furious fight, the lisp’d caresses hears
+Of his own infants prattling at his knees.
+Let therefore Diomede beware, lest strong
+And valiant as he is, he chance to meet490
+Some mightier foe than thou, and lest his wife,
+Daughter of King Adrastus, the discrete
+Ægialea, from portentous dreams
+Upstarting, call her family to wail
+Her first-espoused, Achaia’s proudest boast,485
+Diomede, whom she must behold no more.
+She said, and from her wrist with both hands wiped
+The trickling ichor; the effectual touch
+Divine chased all her pains, and she was heal’d.
+Them Juno mark’d and Pallas, and with speech490
+Sarcastic pointed at Saturnian Jove
+To vex him, blue-eyed Pallas thus began.
+Eternal father! may I speak my thought,
+And not incense thee, Jove? I can but judge
+That Venus, while she coax’d some Grecian fair495
+To accompany the Trojans whom she loves
+With such extravagance, hath heedless stroked
+Her golden clasps, and scratch’d her lily hand.
+So she; then smiled the sire of Gods and men,
+And calling golden Venus, her bespake.500
+War and the tented field, my beauteous child,
+Are not for thee. Thou rather shouldst be found
+In scenes of matrimonial bliss. The toils
+Of war to Pallas and to Mars belong.
+Thus they in heaven. But Diomede the while505
+Sprang on Æneas, conscious of the God
+Whose hand o’ershadow’d him, yet even him
+Regarding lightly; for he burn’d to slay
+Æneas, and to seize his glorious arms.
+Thrice then he sprang impetuous to the deed,510
+And thrice Apollo with his radiant shield
+Repulsed him. But when ardent as a God
+The fourth time he advanced, with thundering-voice
+Him thus the Archer of the skies rebuked.
+Think, and retire, Tydides! nor affect515
+Equality with Gods; for not the same
+Our nature is and theirs who tread the ground.
+He spake, and Diomede a step retired,
+Not more; the anger of the Archer-God
+Declining slow, and with a sullen awe.520
+Then Phœbus, far from all the warrior throng
+To his own shrine the sacred dome beneath
+Of Pergamus, Æneas bore; there him
+Latona and shaft-arm’d Diana heal’d
+And glorified within their spacious fane.525
+Meantime the Archer of the silver bow
+A visionary form prepared; it seem’d
+Himself Æneas, and was arm’d as he.
+At once, in contest for that airy form,
+Grecians and Trojans on each other’s breasts530
+The bull-hide buckler batter’d and light targe.
+Then thus Apollo to the warrior God.
+Gore-tainted homicide, town-batterer Mars!
+Wilt thou not meet and from the fight withdraw
+This man Tydides, now so fiery grown535
+That he would even cope with Jove himself?
+First Venus’ hand he wounded, and assail’d
+Impetuous as a God, next, even me.
+He ceased, and on the topmost turret sat
+Of Pergamus. Then all-destroyer Mars540
+Ranging the Trojan host, rank after rank
+Exhorted loud, and in the form assumed
+Of Acamas the Thracian leader bold,
+The godlike sons of Priam thus harangued.
+Ye sons of Priam, monarch Jove-beloved!545
+How long permit ye your Achaian foes
+To slay the people?—till the battle rage
+(Push’d home to Ilium) at her solid gates?
+Behold—a Chief disabled lies, than whom
+We reverence not even Hector more,550
+Æneas; fly, save from the roaring storm
+The noble Anchisiades your friend.
+He said; then every heart for battle glow’d;
+And thus Sarpedon with rebuke severe
+Upbraiding generous Hector, stern began.555
+Where is thy courage, Hector? for thou once
+Hadst courage. Is it fled? In other days
+Thy boast hath been that without native troops
+Or foreign aids, thy kindred and thyself
+Alone, were guard sufficient for the town.560
+But none of all thy kindred now appears;
+I can discover none; they stand aloof
+Quaking, as dogs that hear the lion’s roar.
+We bear the stress, who are but Troy’s allies;
+Myself am such, and from afar I came;565
+For Lycia lies far distant on the banks
+Of the deep-eddied Xanthus. There a wife
+I left and infant son, both dear to me,
+With plenteous wealth, the wish of all who want.
+Yet urge I still my Lycians, and am prompt570
+Myself to fight, although possessing here
+Nought that the Greeks can carry or drive hence.
+But there stand’st thou, neither employed thyself,
+Nor moving others to an active part
+For all their dearest pledges. Oh beware!575
+Lest, as with meshes of an ample net,
+At one huge draught the Grecians sweep you all,
+And desolate at once your populous Troy!
+By day, by night, thoughts such as these should still
+Thy conduct influence, and from Chief to Chief580
+Of the allies should send thee, praying each
+To make firm stand, all bickerings put away.
+So spake Sarpedon, and his reprimand
+Stung Hector; instant to the ground he leap’d
+All arm’d, and shaking his bright spears his host585
+Ranged in all quarters animating loud
+His legions, and rekindling horrid war.
+Then, rolling back, the powers of Troy opposed
+Once more the Grecians, whom the Grecians dense
+Expected, unretreating, void of fear.590
+As flies the chaff wide scatter’d by the wind
+O’er all the consecrated floor, what time
+Ripe Ceres[13] with brisk airs her golden grain
+Ventilates, whitening with its husk the ground;
+So grew the Achaians white, a dusty cloud595
+Descending on their arms, which steeds with steeds
+Again to battle mingling, with their hoofs
+Up-stamp’d into the brazen vault of heaven;
+For now the charioteers turn’d all to fight.
+Host toward host with full collected force600
+They moved direct. Then Mars through all the field
+Took wide his range, and overhung the war
+With night, in aid of Troy, at the command
+Of Phœbus of the golden sword; for he
+Perceiving Pallas from the field withdrawn,605
+Patroness of the Greeks, had Mars enjoin’d
+To rouse the spirit of the Trojan host.
+Meantime Apollo from his unctuous shrine
+Sent forth restored and with new force inspired
+Æneas. He amidst his warriors stood,610
+Who him with joy beheld still living, heal’d,
+And all his strength possessing unimpair’d.
+Yet no man ask’d him aught. No leisure now
+For question was; far other thoughts had they;
+Such toils the archer of the silver bow,615
+Wide-slaughtering Mars, and Discord as at first
+Raging implacable, for them prepared.
+Ulysses, either Ajax, Diomede—
+These roused the Greeks to battle, who themselves
+The force fear’d nothing, or the shouts of Troy,620
+But steadfast stood, like clouds by Jove amass’d
+On lofty mountains, while the fury sleeps
+Of Boreas, and of all the stormy winds
+Shrill-voiced, that chase the vapors when they blow,
+So stood the Greeks, expecting firm the approach625
+Of Ilium’s powers, and neither fled nor fear’d.
+Then Agamemnon the embattled host
+On all sides ranging, cheer’d them. Now, he cried,
+Be steadfast, fellow warriors, now be men!
+Hold fast a sense of honor. More escape630
+Of men who fear disgrace, than fall in fight,
+While dastards forfeit life and glory both.
+He said, and hurl’d his spear. He pierced a friend
+Of brave Æneas, warring in the van,
+Deicöon son of Pergasus, in Troy635
+Not less esteem’d than Priam’s sons themselves,
+Such was his fame in foremost fight acquired.
+Him Agamemnon on his buckler smote,
+Nor stayed the weapon there, but through his belt
+His bowels enter’d, and with hideous clang640
+And outcry[14] of his batter’d arms he fell.
+Æneas next two mightiest warriors slew,
+Sons of Diocles, of a wealthy sire,
+Whose house magnificent in Phæræ stood,
+Orsilochus and Crethon. Their descent645
+From broad-stream’d Alpheus, Pylian flood, they drew.
+Alpheus begat Orsilochus, a prince
+Of numerous powers. Orsilochus begat
+Warlike Diodes. From Diodes sprang
+Twins, Crethon and Orsilochus, alike650
+Valiant, and skilful in all forms of war.
+Their boyish prime scarce past, they, with the Greeks
+Embarking, in their sable ships had sail’d
+To steed-fam’d Ilium; just revenge they sought
+For Atreus’ sons, but perished first themselves.655
+As two young lions, in the deep recess
+Of some dark forest on the mountain’s brow
+Late nourished by their dam, forth-issuing, seize
+The fatted flocks and kine, both folds and stalls
+Wasting rapacious, till, at length, themselves660
+Deep-wounded perish by the hand of man,
+So they, both vanquish’d by Æneas, fell,
+And like two lofty pines uprooted, lay.
+Them fallen in battle Menelaus saw
+With pity moved; radiant in arms he shook665
+His brazen spear, and strode into the van.
+Mars urged him furious on, conceiving hope
+Of his death also by Æneas’ hand.
+But him the son of generous Nestor mark’d
+Antilochus, and to the foremost fight670
+Flew also, fearing lest some dire mischance
+The Prince befalling, at one fatal stroke
+Should frustrate all the labors of the Greeks.
+They, hand to hand, and spear to spear opposed,
+Stood threatening dreadful onset, when beside675
+The Spartan chief Antilochus appear’d.
+Æneas, at the sight of two combined,
+Stood not, although intrepid. They the dead
+Thence drawing far into the Grecian host
+To their associates gave the hapless pair,680
+Then, both returning, fought in front again.
+Next, fierce as Mars, Pylæmenes they slew,
+Prince of the shielded band magnanimous
+Of Paphlagonia. Him Atrides kill’d
+Spear-practised Menelaus, with a lance685
+His throat transpiercing while erect he rode.
+Then, while his charioteer, Mydon the brave,
+Son of Atymnias, turn’d his steeds to flight,
+Full on his elbow-point Antilochus,
+The son of Nestor, dash’d him with a stone.690
+The slack reins, white as ivory,[15] forsook
+His torpid hand and trail’d the dust. At once
+Forth sprang Antilochus, and with his sword
+Hew’d deep his temples. On his head he pitch’d
+Panting, and on his shoulders in the sand695
+(For in deep sand he fell) stood long erect,
+Till his own coursers spread him in the dust;
+The son of Nestor seized, and with his scourge
+Drove them afar into the host of Greece.
+Them Hector through the ranks espying, flew700
+With clamor loud to meet them; after whom
+Advanced in phalanx firm the powers of Troy,
+Mars led them, with Enyo terror-clad;
+She by the maddening tumult of the fight
+Attended, he, with his enormous spear705
+in both hands brandish’d, stalking now in front
+Of Hector, and now following his steps.
+Him Diomede the bold discerning, felt
+Himself no small dismay; and as a man
+Wandering he knows not whither, far from home,710
+If chance a rapid torrent to the sea
+Borne headlong thwart his course, the foaming flood
+Obstreperous views awhile, then quick retires,
+So he, and his attendants thus bespake.
+How oft, my countrymen! have we admired715
+The noble Hector, skillful at the spear
+And unappall’d in fight? but still hath he
+Some God his guard, and even now I view
+In human form Mars moving at his side.
+Ye, then, with faces to the Trojans turn’d,720
+Ceaseless retire, and war not with the Gods.
+He ended; and the Trojans now approach’d.
+Then two bold warriors in one chariot borne,
+By valiant Hector died, Menesthes one,
+And one, Anchialus. Them fallen in fight725
+Ajax the vast, touch’d with compassion saw;
+Within small space he stood, his glittering spear
+Dismiss’d, and pierced Amphius. Son was he
+Of Selagus, and Pæsus was his home,
+Where opulent he dwelt, but by his fate730
+Was led to fight for Priam and his sons.
+Him Telamonian Ajax through his belt
+Wounded, and in his nether bowels deep
+Fix’d his long-shadow’d spear. Sounding he fell.
+Illustrious Ajax running to the slain735
+Prepared to strip his arms, but him a shower
+Of glittering-weapons keen from Trojan hands
+Assail’d, and numerous his broad shield received.
+He, on the body planting firm his heel,
+Forth drew the polish’d spear, but his bright arms740
+Took not, by darts thick-flying sore annoy’d,
+Nor fear’d he little lest his haughty foes,
+Spear-arm’d and bold, should compass him around;
+Him, therefore, valiant though he were and huge,
+They push’d before them. Staggering he retired.745
+Thus toil’d both hosts in that laborious field.
+And now his ruthless destiny impell’d
+Tlepolemus, Alcides’ son, a Chief
+Dauntless and huge, against a godlike foe
+Sarpedon. They approaching face to face750
+Stood, son and grandson of high-thundering Jove,
+And, haughty, thus Tlepolemus began.
+Sarpedon, leader of the Lycian host,
+Thou trembler! thee what cause could hither urge
+A man unskill’d in arms? They falsely speak755
+Who call thee son of Ægis-bearing Jove,
+So far below their might thou fall’st who sprang
+From Jove in days of old. What says report
+Of Hercules (for him I boast my sire)
+All-daring hero with a lion’s heart?760
+With six ships only, and with followers few,
+He for the horses of Laomedon
+Lay’d Troy in dust, and widow’d all her streets.
+But thou art base, and thy diminish’d powers
+Perish around thee; think not that thou earnest765
+For Ilium’s good, but rather, whatsoe’er
+Thy force in fight, to find, subdued by me,
+A sure dismission to the gates of hell.
+To whom the leader of the Lycian band.
+Tlepolemus! he ransack’d sacred Troy,770
+As thou hast said, but for her monarch’s fault
+Laomedon, who him with language harsh
+Requited ill for benefits received,
+Nor would the steeds surrender, seeking which
+He voyaged from afar. But thou shalt take775
+Thy bloody doom from this victorious arm,
+And, vanquish’d by my spear, shalt yield thy fame
+To me, thy soul to Pluto steed-renown’d.
+So spake Sarpedon, and his ashen beam
+Tlepolemus upraised. Both hurl’d at once780
+Their quivering spears. Sarpedon’s through the neck
+Pass’d of Tlepolemus, and show’d beyond
+Its ruthless point; thick darkness veil’d his eyes.
+Tlepolemus with his long lance the thigh
+Pierced of Sarpedon; sheer into his bone785
+He pierced him, but Sarpedon’s father, Jove,
+Him rescued even on the verge of fate.
+His noble friends conducted from the field
+The godlike Lycian, trailing as he went
+The pendent spear, none thinking to extract790
+For his relief the weapon from his thigh,
+Through eagerness of haste to bear him thence.
+On the other side, the Grecians brazen-mail’d
+Bore off Tlepolemus. Ulysses fill’d
+With earnest thoughts tumultuous them observed,795
+Danger-defying Chief! Doubtful he stood
+Or to pursue at once the Thunderer’s son
+Sarpedon, or to take more Lycian lives.
+But not for brave Ulysses had his fate
+That praise reserved, that he should slay the son800
+Renown’d of Jove; therefore his wavering mind
+Minerva bent against the Lycian band.
+Then Cœranus, Alastor, Chromius fell,
+Alcander, Halius, Prytanis, and brave
+Noëmon; nor had these sufficed the Chief805
+Of Ithaca, but Lycians more had fallen,
+Had not crest-tossing Hector huge perceived
+The havoc; radiant to the van he flew,
+Filling with dread the Grecians; his approach
+Sarpedon, son of Jove, joyful beheld,810
+And piteous thus address’d him as he came.
+Ah, leave not me, Priamides! a prey
+To Grecian hands, but in your city, at least,
+Grant me to die: since hither, doom’d, I came
+Never to gratify with my return815
+To Lycia, my loved spouse, or infant child.
+He spake; but Hector unreplying pass’d
+Impetuous, ardent to repulse the Greeks
+That moment, and to drench his sword in blood.
+Then, under shelter of a spreading beech820
+Sacred to Jove, his noble followers placed
+The godlike Chief Sarpedon, where his friend
+Illustrious Pelagon, the ashen spear
+Extracted. Sightless, of all thought bereft,
+He sank, but soon revived, by breathing airs825
+Refresh’d, that fann’d him gently from the North.
+Meantime the Argives, although press’d alike
+By Mars himself and Hector brazen-arm’d,
+Neither to flight inclined, nor yet advanced
+To battle, but inform’d that Mars the fight830
+Waged on the side of Ilium, slow retired.[16]
+Whom first, whom last slew then the mighty son
+Of Priam, Hector, and the brazen Mars!
+First godlike Teuthras, an equestrian Chief,
+Orestes, Trechus of Ætolian race,835
+Œnomaüs, Helenus from Œnops’ sprung,
+And brisk[17] in fight Oresbius; rich was he,
+And covetous of more; in Hyla dwelt
+Fast by the lake Cephissus, where abode
+Bœotian Princes numerous, rich themselves840
+And rulers of a people wealth-renown’d.
+But Juno, such dread slaughter of the Greeks
+Noting, thus, ardent, to Minerva spake.
+Daughter of Jove invincible! Our word
+That Troy shall perish, hath been given in vain845
+To Menelaus, if we suffer Mars
+To ravage longer uncontrol’d. The time
+Urges, and need appears that we ourselves
+Now call to mind the fury of our might.
+She spake; nor blue-eyed Pallas not complied.850
+Then Juno, Goddess dread, from Saturn sprung,
+Her coursers gold-caparison’d prepared
+Impatient. Hebe to the chariot roll’d
+The brazen wheels,[18] and joined them to the smooth
+Steel axle; twice four spokes divided each855
+Shot from the centre to the verge. The verge
+Was gold by fellies of eternal brass
+Guarded, a dazzling show! The shining naves
+Were silver; silver cords and cords of gold
+The seat upbore; two crescents[19] blazed in front.860
+The pole was argent all, to which she bound
+The golden yoke, and in their place disposed
+The breast-bands incorruptible of gold;
+But Juno to the yoke, herself, the steeds
+Led forth, on fire to reach the dreadful field.865
+Meantime, Minerva, progeny of Jove,
+On the adamantine floor of his abode
+Let fall profuse her variegated robe,
+Labor of her own hands. She first put on
+The corselet of the cloud-assembler God,870
+Then arm’d her for the field of wo complete.
+She charged her shoulder with the dreadful shield
+The shaggy Ægis,[20] border’d thick around
+With terror; there was Discord, Prowess there,
+There hot Pursuit, and there the feature grim875
+Of Gorgon, dire Deformity, a sign
+Oft borne portentous on the arm of Jove.
+Her golden helm, whose concave had sufficed
+The legions of an hundred cities, rough
+With warlike ornament superb, she fix’d880
+On her immortal head. Thus arm’d, she rose
+Into the flaming chariot, and her spear
+Seized ponderous, huge, with which the Goddess sprung
+From an Almighty father, levels ranks
+Of heroes, against whom her anger burns.885
+Juno with lifted lash urged quick the steeds;
+At her approach, spontaneous roar’d the wide-
+Unfolding gates of heaven;[21] the heavenly gates
+Kept by the watchful Hours, to whom the charge
+Of the Olympian summit appertains,890
+And of the boundless ether, back to roll,
+And to replace the cloudy barrier dense.
+Spurr’d through the portal flew the rapid steeds;
+Apart from all, and seated on the point
+Superior of the cloven mount, they found895
+The Thunderer. Juno the white-arm’d her steeds
+There stay’d, and thus the Goddess, ere she pass’d,
+Question’d the son of Saturn, Jove supreme.
+Jove, Father, seest thou, and art not incensed,
+These ravages of Mars? Oh what a field,900
+Drench’d with what Grecian blood! All rashly spilt,
+And in despite of me. Venus, the while,
+Sits, and the Archer of the silver bow
+Delighted, and have urged, themselves, to this
+The frantic Mars within no bounds confined905
+Of law or order. But, eternal sire!
+Shall I offend thee chasing far away
+Mars deeply smitten from the field of war?
+To whom the cloud-assembler God replied.
+Go! but exhort thou rather to the task910
+Spoil-huntress Athenæan Pallas, him
+Accustom’d to chastise with pain severe.
+He spake, nor white-arm’d Juno not obey’d.
+She lash’d her steeds; they readily their flight
+Began, the earth and starry vault between.915
+Far as from his high tower the watchman kens
+O’er gloomy ocean, so far at one bound
+Advance the shrill-voiced coursers of the Gods.
+But when at Troy and at the confluent streams
+Of Simoïs and Scamander they arrived,920
+There Juno, white-arm’d Goddess, from the yoke
+Her steeds releasing, them in gather’d shades
+Conceal’d opaque, while Simoïs caused to spring
+Ambrosia from his bank, whereon they browsed.
+Swift as her pinions waft the dove away925
+They sought the Grecians, ardent to begin:
+Arriving where the mightiest and the most
+Compass’d equestrian Diomede around,
+In aspect lion-like, or like wild boars
+Of matchless force, there white-arm’d Juno stood,930
+And in the form of Stentor for his voice
+Of brass renown’d, audible as the roar
+Of fifty throats, the Grecians thus harangued.
+Oh shame, shame, shame! Argives in form alone,
+Beautiful but dishonorable race!935
+While yet divine Achilles ranged the field,
+No Trojan stepp’d from yon Dardanian gates
+Abroad; all trembled at his stormy spear;
+But now they venture forth, now at your ships
+Defy you, from their city far remote.940
+She ceased, and all caught courage from the sound.
+But Athenæan Pallas eager sought
+The son of Tydeus; at his chariot side
+She found the Chief cooling his fiery wound
+Received from Pandarus; for him the sweat945
+Beneath the broad band of his oval shield
+Exhausted, and his arm fail’d him fatigued;
+He therefore raised the band and wiped the blood
+Coagulate; when o’er his chariot yoke
+Her arm the Goddess threw, and thus began.950
+Tydeus, in truth, begat a son himself
+Not much resembling. Tydeus was of size
+Diminutive, but had a warrior’s heart.
+When him I once commanded to abstain
+From furious fight (what time he enter’d Thebes955
+Ambassador, and the Cadmeans found
+Feasting, himself the sole Achaian there)
+And bade him quietly partake the feast.
+He, fired with wonted ardor, challenged forth
+To proof of manhood the Cadmean youth,960
+Whom easily, through my effectual aid,
+In contests of each kind he overcame.
+But thou, whom I encircle with my power,
+Guard vigilant, and even bid thee forth
+To combat with the Trojans, thou, thy limbs965
+Feel’st wearied with the toils of war, or worse,
+Indulgest womanish and heartless fear.
+Henceforth thou art not worthy to be deem’d
+Son of Oenides, Tydeus famed in arms.
+To whom thus valiant Diomede replied.970
+I know thee well, oh Goddess sprung from Jove!
+And therefore willing shall, and plain, reply.
+Me neither weariness nor heartless fear
+Restrains, but thine injunctions which impress
+My memory, still, that I should fear to oppose975
+The blessed Gods in fight, Venus except,
+Whom in the battle found thou badest me pierce
+With unrelenting spear; therefore myself
+Retiring hither, I have hither call’d
+The other Argives also, for I know980
+That Mars, himself in arms, controls the war.
+Him answer’d then the Goddess azure-eyed.
+Tydides! Diomede, my heart’s delight!
+Fear not this Mars,[22] nor fear thou other power
+Immortal, but be confident in me.985
+Arise. Drive forth. Seek Mars; him only seek;
+Him hand to hand engage; this fiery Mars
+Respect not aught, base implement of wrong
+And mischief, shifting still from side to side.
+He promised Juno lately and myself990
+That he would fight for Greece, yet now forgets
+His promise, and gives all his aid to Troy.
+So saying, she backward by his hand withdrew
+The son of Capaneus, who to the ground
+Leap’d instant; she, impatient to his place995
+Ascending, sat beside brave Diomede.
+Loud groan’d the beechen axle, under weight
+Unwonted, for it bore into the fight
+An awful Goddess, and the chief of men.
+Quick-seizing lash and reins Minerva drove1000
+Direct at Mars. That moment he had slain
+Periphas, bravest of Ætolia’s sons,
+And huge of bulk; Ochesius was his sire.
+Him Mars the slaughterer had of life bereft
+Newly, and Pallas to elude his sight1005
+The helmet fixed of Ades on her head.[23]
+Soon as gore-tainted Mars the approach perceived
+Of Diomede, he left the giant length
+Of Periphas extended where he died,
+And flew to cope with Tydeus’ valiant son.1010
+Full nigh they came, when Mars on fire to slay
+The hero, foremost with his brazen lance
+Assail’d him, hurling o’er his horses’ heads.
+But Athenæan Pallas in her hand
+The flying weapon caught and turn’d it wide,1015
+Baffling his aim. Then Diomede on him
+Rush’d furious in his turn, and Pallas plunged
+The bright spear deep into his cinctured waist
+Dire was the wound, and plucking back the spear
+She tore him. Bellow’d brazen-throated Mars1020
+Loud as nine thousand warriors, or as ten
+Join’d in close combat. Grecians, Trojans shook
+Appall’d alike at the tremendous voice
+Of Mars insatiable with deeds of blood.
+Such as the dimness is when summer winds1025
+Breathe hot, and sultry mist obscures the sky,
+Such brazen Mars to Diomede appear’d
+By clouds accompanied in his ascent
+Into the boundless ether. Reaching soon
+The Olympian heights, seat of the Gods, he sat1030
+Beside Saturnian Jove; wo fill’d his heart;
+He show’d fast-streaming from the wound his blood
+Immortal, and impatient thus complain’d.
+Jove, Father! Seest thou these outrageous acts
+Unmoved with anger? Such are day by day1035
+The dreadful mischiefs by the Gods contrived
+Against each other, for the sake of man.
+Thou art thyself the cause. Thou hast produced
+A foolish daughter petulant, addict
+To evil only and injurious deeds;1040
+There is not in Olympus, save herself,
+Who feels not thy control; but she her will
+Gratifies ever, and reproof from thee
+Finds none, because, pernicious as she is,
+She is thy daughter. She hath now the mind1045
+Of haughty Diomede with madness fill’d
+Against the immortal Gods; first Venus bled;
+Her hand he pierced impetuous, then assail’d,
+As if himself immortal, even me,
+But me my feet stole thence, or overwhelm’d1050
+Beneath yon heaps of carcases impure,
+What had I not sustain’d? And if at last
+I lived, had halted crippled by the sword.
+To whom with dark displeasure Jove replied.
+Base and side-shifting traitor! vex not me1055
+Here sitting querulous; of all who dwell
+On the Olympian heights, thee most I hate
+Contentious, whose delight is war alone.
+Thou hast thy mother’s moods, the very spleen
+Of Juno, uncontrolable as she.1060
+Whom even I, reprove her as I may,
+Scarce rule by mere commands; I therefore judge
+Thy sufferings a contrivance all her own.
+But soft. Thou art my son whom I begat.
+And Juno bare thee. I can not endure1065
+That thou shouldst suffer long. Hadst thou been born
+Of other parents thus detestable,
+What Deity soe’er had brought thee forth,
+Thou shouldst have found long since a humbler sphere.
+He ceased, and to the care his son consign’d1070
+Of Pæon; he with drugs of lenient powers,
+Soon heal’d whom immortality secured
+From dissolution. As the juice from figs
+Express’d what fluid was in milk before
+Coagulates, stirr’d rapidly around,1075
+So soon was Mars by Pæon skill restored.
+Him Hebe bathed, and with divine attire
+Graceful adorn’d; when at the side of Jove
+Again his glorious seat sublime he took.
+Meantime to the abode of Jove supreme1080
+Ascended Juno throughout Argos known
+And mighty Pallas; Mars the plague of man,
+By their successful force from slaughter driven.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK VI.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE SIXTH BOOK.
+
+The battle is continued. The Trojans being closely pursued, Hector by
+the advice of Helenus enters Troy, and recommends it to Hecuba to go in
+solemn procession to the temple of Minerva; she with the matrons goes
+accordingly. Hector takes the opportunity to find out Paris, and
+exhorts him to return to the field of battle. An interview succeeds
+between Hector and Andromache, and Paris, having armed himself in the
+mean time, comes up with Hector at the close of it, when they sally
+from the gate together.
+
+
+BOOK VI.
+
+
+Thus was the field forsaken by the Gods.
+And now success proved various; here the Greeks
+With their extended spears, the Trojans there
+Prevail’d alternate, on the champain spread
+The Xanthus and the Simoïs between.[1]5
+First Telamonian Ajax,[2] bulwark firm
+Of the Achaians, broke the Trojan ranks,
+And kindled for the Greeks a gleam of hope,
+Slaying the bravest of the Thracian band,
+Huge Acamas, Eusorus’ son; him first10
+Full on the shaggy crest he smote, and urged
+The spear into his forehead; through his skull
+The bright point pass’d, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+But Diomede, heroic Chief, the son
+Of Teuthras slew, Axylus.[3] Rich was he,15
+And in Arisba (where he dwelt beside
+The public road, and at his open door
+Made welcome all) respected and beloved.
+But of his numerous guests none interposed
+To avert his woful doom; nor him alone20
+He slew, but with him also to the shades
+Calesius sent, his friend and charioteer.
+Opheltius fell and Dresus, by the hand
+Slain of Euryalus, who, next, his arms
+On Pedasus and on Æsepus turned25
+Brethren and twins. Them Abarbarea bore,
+A Naiad, to Bucolion, son renown’d
+Of King Laomedon, his eldest born,
+But by his mother, at his birth, conceal’d.
+Bucolion pasturing his flocks, embraced30
+The lovely nymph; she twins produced, both whom,
+Brave as they were and beautiful, thy son[4]
+Mecisteus! slew, and from their shoulders tore
+Their armor. Dauntless Polypœtes slew
+Astyalus. Ulysses with his spear35
+Transfixed Pydites, a Percosian Chief,
+And Teucer Aretaön; Nestor’s pride
+Antilochus, with his bright lance, of life
+Bereft Ablerus, and the royal arm
+Of Agamemnon, Elatus; he dwelt40
+Among the hills of lofty Pedasus,
+On Satnio’s banks, smooth-sliding river pure
+Phylacus fled, whom Leïtus as swift
+Soon smote. Melanthius at the feet expired
+Of the renown’d Eurypylus, and, flush’d45
+With martial ardor, Menelaus seized
+And took alive Adrastus. As it chanced
+A thicket his affrighted steeds detain’d
+Their feet entangling; they with restive force
+At its extremity snapp’d short the pole,50
+And to the city, whither others fled,
+Fled also. From his chariot headlong hurl’d,
+Adrastus press’d the plain fast by his wheel.
+Flew Menelaus, and his quivering spear
+Shook over him; he, life imploring, clasp’d55
+Importunate his knees, and thus exclaim’d.
+Oh, son of Atreus, let me live! accept
+Illustrious ransom! In my father’s house
+Is wealth abundant, gold, and brass, and steel
+Of truest temper, which he will impart60
+Till he have gratified thine utmost wish,
+Inform’d that I am captive in your fleet.
+He said, and Menelaus by his words
+Vanquish’d, him soon had to the fleet dismiss’d
+Given to his train in charge, but swift and stern65
+Approaching, Agamemnon interposed.
+Now, brother, whence this milkiness of mind,
+These scruples about blood? Thy Trojan friends
+Have doubtless much obliged thee. Die the race!
+May none escape us! neither he who flies,70
+Nor even the infant in his mother’s womb
+Unconscious. Perish universal Troy
+Unpitied, till her place be found no more![5]
+So saying, his brother’s mind the Hero turn’d,
+Advising him aright; he with his hand75
+Thrust back Adrastus, and himself, the King,
+His bowels pierced. Supine Adrastus fell,
+And Agamemnon, with his foot the corse
+Impressing firm, pluck’d forth his ashen spear.
+Then Nestor, raising high his voice, exclaim’d.80
+Friends, Heroes, Grecians, ministers of Mars!
+Let none, desirous of the spoil, his time
+Devote to plunder now; now slay your foes,
+And strip them when the field shall be your own.[6]
+
+He said, and all took courage at his word.85
+Then had the Trojans enter’d Troy again
+By the heroic Grecians foul repulsed,
+So was their spirit daunted, but the son
+Of Priam, Helenus, an augur far
+Excelling all, at Hector’s side his speech90
+To him and to Æneas thus address’d.
+Hector, and thou, Æneas, since on you
+The Lycians chiefly and ourselves depend,
+For that in difficult emprize ye show
+Most courage; give best counsel; stand yourselves,95
+And, visiting all quarters, cause to stand
+Before the city-gates our scatter’d troops,
+Ere yet the fugitives within the arms
+Be slaughter’d of their wives, the scorn of Greece.
+When thus ye shall have rallied every band100
+And roused their courage, weary though we be,
+Yet since necessity commands, even here
+Will we give battle to the host of Greece.
+But, Hector! to the city thou depart;
+There charge our mother, that she go direct,105
+With the assembled matrons, to the fane
+Of Pallas in the citadel of Troy.
+Opening her chambers’ sacred doors, of all
+Her treasured mantles there, let her select
+The widest, most magnificently wrought,110
+And which she values most; _that_ let her spread
+On Athenæan Pallas’ lap divine.[7]
+Twelve heifers of the year yet never touch’d
+With puncture of the goad, let her alike
+Devote to her, if she will pity Troy,115
+Our wives and little ones, and will avert
+The son of Tydeus from these sacred towers,
+That dreadful Chief, terror of all our host,
+Bravest, in my account, of all the Greeks.
+For never yet Achilles hath himself120
+So taught our people fear, although esteemed
+Son of a Goddess. But this warrior’s rage
+Is boundless, and his strength past all compare.
+So Helenus; nor Hector not complied.
+Down from his chariot instant to the ground125
+All arm’d he leap’d, and, shaking his sharp spears,
+Through every phalanx pass’d, rousing again
+Their courage, and rekindling horrid war.
+They, turning, faced the Greeks; the Greeks repulsed,
+Ceased from all carnage, nor supposed they less130
+Than that some Deity, the starry skies
+Forsaken, help’d their foes, so firm they stood.
+But Hector to the Trojans call’d aloud.
+Ye dauntless Trojans and confederate powers
+Call’d from afar! now be ye men, my friends,135
+Now summon all the fury of your might!
+I go to charge our senators and wives
+That they address the Gods with prayers and vows
+For our success, and hecatombs devote.
+So saying the Hero went, and as he strode140
+The sable hide that lined his bossy shield
+Smote on his neck and on his ancle-bone.
+And now into the middle space between
+Both hosts, the son of Tydeus and the son
+Moved of Hippolochus, intent alike145
+On furious combat; face to face they stood,
+And thus heroic Diomede began.
+Most noble Champion! who of human kind
+Art thou,[8] whom in the man-ennobling fight
+I now encounter first? Past all thy peers150
+I must esteem thee valiant, who hast dared
+To meet my coming, and my spear defy.
+Ah! they are sons of miserable sires
+Who dare my might; but if a God from heaven
+Thou come, behold! I fight not with the Gods.155
+That war Lycurgus son of Dryas waged,
+And saw not many years. The nurses he
+Of brain-disturbing Bacchus down the steep
+Pursued of sacred Nyssa; they their wands
+Vine-wreathed cast all away, with an ox-goad160
+Chastised by fell Lycurgus. Bacchus plunged
+Meantime dismay’d into the deep, where him
+Trembling, and at the Hero’s haughty threats
+Confounded, Thetis in her bosom hid.[9]
+Thus by Lycurgus were the blessed powers165
+Of heaven offended, and Saturnian Jove
+Of sight bereaved him, who not long that loss
+Survived, for he was curst by all above.
+I, therefore, wage no contest with the Gods;
+But if thou be of men, and feed on bread170
+Of earthly growth, draw nigh, that with a stroke
+Well-aim’d, I may at once cut short thy days.[10]
+To whom the illustrious Lycian Chief replied.
+Why asks brave Diomede of my descent?
+For, as the leaves, such is the race of man.[11]175
+The wind shakes down the leaves, the budding grove
+Soon teems with others, and in spring they grow.
+So pass mankind. One generation meets
+Its destined period, and a new succeeds.
+But since thou seem’st desirous to be taught180
+My pedigree, whereof no few have heard,
+Know that in Argos, in the very lap
+Of Argos, for her steed-grazed meadows famed,
+Stands Ephyra;[12] there Sisyphus abode,
+Shrewdest of human kind; Sisyphus, named185
+Æolides. Himself a son begat,
+Glaucus, and he Bellerophon, to whom
+The Gods both manly force and beauty gave.
+Him Prœtus (for in Argos at that time
+Prœtus was sovereign, to whose sceptre Jove190
+Had subjected the land) plotting his death,
+Contrived to banish from his native home.
+For fair Anteia, wife of Prœtus, mad
+Through love of young Bellerophon, him oft
+In secret to illicit joys enticed;195
+But she prevail’d not o’er the virtuous mind
+Discrete of whom she wooed; therefore a lie
+Framing, she royal Prœtus thus bespake.
+Die thou, or slay Bellerophon, who sought
+Of late to force me to his lewd embrace.200
+So saying, the anger of the King she roused.
+Slay him himself he would not, for his heart
+Forbad the deed; him therefore he dismiss’d
+To Lycia, charged with tales of dire import
+Written in tablets,[13] which he bade him show,205
+That he might perish, to Anteia’s sire.
+To Lycia then, conducted by the Gods,
+He went, and on the shores of Xanthus found
+Free entertainment noble at the hands
+Of Lycia’s potent King. Nine days complete210
+He feasted him, and slew each day an ox.
+But when the tenth day’s ruddy morn appear’d,
+He asked him then his errand, and to see
+Those written tablets from his son-in-law.
+The letters seen, he bade him, first, destroy215
+Chimæra, deem’d invincible, divine
+In nature, alien from the race of man,
+Lion in front, but dragon all behind,
+And in the midst a she-goat breathing forth
+Profuse the violence of flaming fire.220
+Her, confident in signs from heaven, he slew.
+Next, with the men of Solymæ[14] he fought,
+Brave warriors far renown’d, with whom he waged,
+In his account, the fiercest of his wars.
+And lastly, when in battle he had slain225
+The man-resisting Amazons, the king
+Another stratagem at his return
+Devised against him, placing close-conceal’d
+An ambush for him from the bravest chosen
+In Lycia; but they saw their homes no more;230
+Bellerophon the valiant slew them all.
+The monarch hence collecting, at the last,
+His heavenly origin, him there detain’d,
+And gave him his own daughter, with the half
+Of all his royal dignity and power.235
+The Lycians also, for his proper use,
+Large lot assigned him of their richest soil,[15]
+Commodious for the vine, or for the plow.
+And now his consort fair three children bore
+To bold Bellerophon; Isandrus one,240
+And one, Hippolochus; his youngest born
+Laodamia was for beauty such
+That she became a concubine of Jove.
+She bore Sarpedon of heroic note.
+But when Bellerophon, at last, himself245
+Had anger’d all the Gods, feeding on grief
+He roam’d alone the Aleian field, exiled,
+By choice, from every cheerful haunt of man.
+Mars, thirsty still for blood, his son destroy’d
+Isandrus, warring with the host renown’d250
+Of Solymæ; and in her wrath divine
+Diana from her chariot golden-rein’d
+Laodamia slew. Myself I boast
+Sprung from Hippolochus; he sent me forth
+To fight for Troy, charging me much and oft255
+That I should outstrip always all mankind
+In worth and valor, nor the house disgrace
+Of my forefathers, heroes without peer
+In Ephyra, and in Lycia’s wide domain.
+Such is my lineage; such the blood I boast.260
+He ceased. Then valiant Diomede rejoiced.
+He pitch’d his spear, and to the Lycian Prince
+In terms of peace and amity replied.
+Thou art my own hereditary friend,
+Whose noble grandsire was the guest of mine.[16]265
+For Oeneus, on a time, full twenty days
+Regaled Bellerophon, and pledges fair
+Of hospitality they interchanged.
+Oeneus a belt radiant with purple gave
+To brave Bellerophon, who in return270
+Gave him a golden goblet. Coming forth
+I left the kind memorial safe at home.
+A child was I when Tydeus went to Thebes,
+Where the Achaians perish’d, and of him
+Hold no remembrance; but henceforth, my friend,275
+Thine host am I in Argos, and thou mine
+In Lycia, should I chance to sojourn there.
+We will not clash. Trojans or aids of Troy
+No few the Gods shall furnish to my spear,
+Whom I may slaughter; and no want of Greeks280
+On whom to prove thy prowess, thou shalt find.
+But it were well that an exchange ensued
+Between us; take mine armor, give me thine,
+That all who notice us may understand
+Our patrimonial[17] amity and love.285
+So they, and each alighting, hand in hand
+Stood lock’d, faith promising and firm accord.
+Then Jove of sober judgment so bereft
+Infatuate Glaucus that with Tydeus’ son
+He barter’d gold for brass, an hundred beeves290
+In value, for the value small of nine.
+But Hector at the Scæan gate and beech[18]
+Meantime arrived, to whose approach the wives
+And daughters flock’d of Troy, inquiring each
+The fate of husband, brother, son, or friend.295
+He bade them all with solemn prayer the Gods
+Seek fervent, for that wo was on the wing.
+But when he enter’d Priam’s palace, built
+With splendid porticoes, and which within
+Had fifty chambers lined with polish’d stone,300
+Contiguous all, where Priam’s sons reposed
+And his sons’ wives, and where, on the other side.
+In twelve magnificent chambers also lined
+With polish’d marble and contiguous all,
+The sons-in-law of Priam lay beside305
+His spotless daughters, there the mother queen
+Seeking the chamber of Laodice,
+Loveliest of all her children, as she went
+Met Hector. On his hand she hung and said:
+Why leavest thou, O my son! the dangerous field?310
+I fear that the Achaians (hateful name!)
+Compass the walls so closely, that thou seek’st
+Urged by distress the citadel, to lift
+Thine hands in prayer to Jove? But pause awhile
+Till I shall bring thee wine, that having pour’d315
+Libation rich to Jove and to the powers
+Immortal, thou may’st drink and be refresh’d.
+For wine is mighty to renew the strength
+Of weary man, and weary thou must be
+Thyself, thus long defending us and ours.320
+To whom her son majestic thus replied.
+My mother, whom I reverence! cheering wine
+Bring none to me, lest I forget my might.[19]
+I fear, beside, with unwash’d hands to pour
+Libation forth of sable wine to Jove,325
+And dare on none account, thus blood-defiled,[20]
+Approach the tempest-stirring God in prayer.
+Thou, therefore, gathering all our matrons, seek
+The fane of Pallas, huntress of the spoil,
+Bearing sweet incense; but from the attire330
+Treasured within thy chamber, first select
+The amplest robe, most exquisitely wrought,
+And which thou prizest most—then spread the gift
+On Athenæan Pallas’ lap divine.
+Twelve heifers also of the year, untouch’d335
+With puncture of the goad, promise to slay
+In sacrifice, if she will pity Troy,
+Our wives and little ones, and will avert
+The son of Tydeus from these sacred towers,
+That dreadful Chief, terror of all our host.340
+Go then, my mother, seek the hallowed fane
+Of the spoil-huntress Deity. I, the while,
+Seek Paris, and if Paris yet can hear,
+Shall call him forth. But oh that earth would yawn
+And swallow him, whom Jove hath made a curse345
+To Troy, to Priam, and to all his house;
+Methinks, to see him plunged into the shades
+For ever, were a cure for all my woes.
+He ceased; the Queen, her palace entering, charged
+Her maidens; they, incontinent, throughout350
+All Troy convened the matrons, as she bade.
+Meantime into her wardrobe incense-fumed,
+Herself descended; there her treasures lay,
+Works of Sidonian women,[21] whom her son
+The godlike Paris, when he cross’d the seas355
+With Jove-begotten Helen, brought to Troy.
+The most magnificent, and varied most
+With colors radiant, from the rest she chose
+For Pallas; vivid as a star it shone,
+And lowest lay of all. Then forth she went,360
+The Trojan matrons all following her steps.
+But when the long procession reach’d the fane
+Of Pallas in the heights of Troy, to them
+The fair Theano ope’d the portals wide,
+Daughter of Cisseus, brave Antenor’s spouse,365
+And by appointment public, at that time,
+Priestess of Pallas. All with lifted hands[22]
+In presence of Minerva wept aloud.
+Beauteous Theano on the Goddess’ lap
+Then spread the robe, and to the daughter fair370
+Of Jove omnipotent her suit address’d.
+Goddess[23] of Goddesses, our city’s shield,
+Adored Minerva, hear! oh! break the lance
+Of Diomede, and give himself to fall
+Prone in the dust before the Scæan gate.375
+So will we offer to thee at thy shrine,
+This day twelve heifers of the year, untouch’d
+By yoke or goad, if thou wilt pity show
+To Troy, and save our children and our wives.
+Such prayer the priestess offer’d, and such prayer380
+All present; whom Minerva heard averse.
+But Hector to the palace sped meantime
+Of Alexander, which himself had built,
+Aided by every architect of name
+Illustrious then in Troy. Chamber it had,385
+Wide hall, proud dome, and on the heights of Troy
+Near-neighboring Hector’s house and Priam’s stood.
+There enter’d Hector, Jove-beloved, a spear
+Its length eleven cubits in his hand,
+Its glittering head bound with a ring of gold.390
+He found within his chamber whom he sought,
+Polishing with exactest care his arms
+Resplendent, shield and hauberk fingering o’er
+With curious touch, and tampering with his bow.[24]
+Helen of Argos with her female train395
+Sat occupied, the while, to each in turn
+Some splendid task assigning. Hector fix’d
+His eyes on Paris, and him stern rebuked.
+Thy sullen humors, Paris, are ill-timed.
+The people perish at our lofty walls;400
+The flames of war have compass’d Troy around
+And thou hast kindled them; who yet thyself
+That slackness show’st which in another seen
+Thou would’st resent to death. Haste, seek the field
+This moment, lest, the next, all Ilium blaze.405
+To whom thus Paris, graceful as a God.
+Since, Hector, thou hast charged me with a fault,
+And not unjustly, I will answer make,
+And give thou special heed. That here I sit,
+The cause is sorrow, which I wish’d to soothe410
+In secret, not displeasure or revenge.
+I tell thee also, that even now my wife
+Was urgent with me in most soothing terms
+That I would forth to battle; and myself,
+Aware that victory oft changes sides,415
+That course prefer. Wait, therefore, thou awhile,
+Till I shall dress me for the fight, or go
+Thou first, and I will overtake thee soon.
+He ceased, to whom brave Hector answer none
+Return’d, when Helen him with lenient speech420
+Accosted mild.[25] My brother! who in me
+Hast found a sister worthy of thy hate,
+Authoress of all calamity to Troy,
+Oh that the winds, the day when I was born,
+Had swept me out of sight, whirl’d me aloft425
+To some inhospitable mountain-top,
+Or plunged me in the deep; there I had sunk
+O’erwhelm’d, and all these ills had never been.
+But since the Gods would bring these ills to pass,
+I should, at least, some worthier mate have chosen,430
+One not insensible to public shame.
+But this, oh this, nor hath nor will acquire
+Hereafter, aught which like discretion shows
+Or reason, and shall find his just reward.
+But enter; take this seat; for who as thou435
+Labors, or who hath cause like thee to rue
+The crime, my brother, for which Heaven hath doom’d
+Both Paris and my most detested self
+To be the burthens of an endless song?
+To whom the warlike Hector huge[26] replied.440
+Me bid not, Helen, to a seat, howe’er
+Thou wish my stay, for thou must not prevail.
+The Trojans miss me, and myself no less
+Am anxious to return. But urge in haste
+This loiterer forth; yea, let him urge himself445
+To overtake me ere I quit the town.
+For I must home in haste, that I may see
+My loved Andromache, my infant boy,
+And my domestics, ignorant if e’er
+I shall behold them more, or if my fate450
+Ordain me now to fall by Grecian hands.
+So spake the dauntless hero, and withdrew.
+But reaching soon his own well-built abode
+He found not fair Andromache; she stood
+Lamenting Hector, with the nurse who bore455
+Her infant, on a turret’s top sublime.
+He then, not finding his chaste spouse within,
+Thus from the portal, of her train inquired.
+Tell me, ye maidens, whither went from home
+Andromache the fair?[27] Went she to see460
+Her female kindred of my father’s house,
+Or to Minerva’s temple, where convened
+The bright-hair’d matrons of the city seek
+To soothe the awful Goddess? Tell me true.
+To whom his household’s governess discreet.465
+Since, Hector, truth is thy demand, receive
+True answer. Neither went she forth to see
+Her female kindred of thy father’s house,
+Nor to Minerva’s temple, where convened
+The bright-haired matrons of the city seek470
+To soothe the awful Goddess; but she went
+Hence to the tower of Troy: for she had heard
+That the Achaians had prevail’d, and driven
+The Trojans to the walls; she, therefore, wild
+With grief, flew thither, and the nurse her steps475
+Attended, with thy infant in her arms.
+So spake the prudent governess; whose words
+When Hector heard, issuing from his door
+He backward trod with hasty steps the streets
+Of lofty Troy, and having traversed all480
+The spacious city, when he now approach’d
+The Scæan gate, whence he must seek the field,
+There, hasting home again his noble wife
+Met him, Andromache the rich-endow’d
+Fair daughter of Eëtion famed in arms.485
+Eëtion, who in Hypoplacian Thebes
+Umbrageous dwelt, Cilicia’s mighty lord—
+His daughter valiant Hector had espoused.
+There she encounter’d him, and with herself
+The nurse came also, bearing in her arms490
+Hectorides, his infant darling boy,
+Beautiful as a star. Him Hector called
+Scamandrios, but Astyanax[28] all else
+In Ilium named him, for that Hector’s arm
+Alone was the defence and strength of Troy.495
+The father, silent, eyed his babe, and smiled.
+Andromache, meantime, before him stood,
+With streaming cheeks, hung on his hand, and said.
+Thy own great courage will cut short thy days,
+My noble Hector! neither pitiest thou500
+Thy helpless infant, or my hapless self,
+Whose widowhood is near; for thou wilt fall
+Ere long, assail’d by the whole host of Greece.
+Then let me to the tomb, my best retreat
+When thou art slain. For comfort none or joy505
+Can I expect, thy day of life extinct,
+But thenceforth, sorrow. Father I have none;
+No mother. When Cilicia’s city, Thebes
+The populous, was by Achilles sack’d.
+He slew my father; yet his gorgeous arms510
+Stripp’d not through reverence of him, but consumed,
+Arm’d as it was, his body on the pile,
+And heap’d his tomb, which the Oreades,
+Jove’s daughters, had with elms inclosed around.[29]
+My seven brothers, glory of our house,515
+All in one day descended to the shades;
+For brave Achilles,[30] while they fed their herds
+And snowy flocks together, slew them all.
+My mother, Queen of the well-wooded realm
+Of Hypoplacian Thebes, her hither brought520
+Among his other spoils, he loosed again
+At an inestimable ransom-price,
+But by Diana pierced, she died at home.
+Yet Hector—oh my husband! I in thee
+Find parents, brothers, all that I have lost.525
+Come! have compassion on us. Go not hence,
+But guard this turret, lest of me thou make
+A widow, and an orphan of thy boy.
+The city walls are easiest of ascent
+At yonder fig-tree; station there thy powers;530
+For whether by a prophet warn’d, or taught
+By search and observation, in that part
+Each Ajax with Idomeneus of Crete,
+The sons of Atreus, and the valiant son
+Of Tydeus, have now thrice assail’d the town.535
+To whom the leader of the host of Troy.
+These cares, Andromache, which thee engage,
+All touch me also; but I dread to incur
+The scorn of male and female tongues in Troy,
+If, dastard-like, I should decline the fight.540
+Nor feel I such a wish. No. I have learn’d
+To be courageous ever, in the van
+Among the flower of Ilium to assert
+My glorious father’s honor, and my own.
+For that the day shall come when sacred Troy,545
+When Priam, and the people of the old
+Spear-practised King shall perish, well I know.
+But for no Trojan sorrows yet to come
+So much I mourn, not e’en for Hecuba,
+Nor yet for Priam, nor for all the brave550
+Of my own brothers who shall kiss the dust,
+As for thyself, when some Achaian Chief
+Shall have convey’d thee weeping hence, thy sun
+Of peace and liberty for ever set.
+Then shalt thou toil in Argos at the loom555
+For a task-mistress, and constrain’d shalt draw
+From Hypereïa’s fount,[31] or from the fount
+Messeïs, water at her proud command.
+Some Grecian then, seeing thy tears, shall say—
+“This was the wife of Hector, who excell’d560
+All Troy in fight when Ilium was besieged.”
+Such he shall speak thee, and thy heart, the while,
+Shall bleed afresh through want of such a friend
+To stand between captivity and thee.
+But may I rest beneath my hill of earth565
+Or ere that day arrive! I would not live
+To hear thy cries, and see thee torn away.
+So saying, illustrious Hector stretch’d his arms
+Forth to his son, but with a scream, the child
+Fell back into the bosom of his nurse,570
+His father’s aspect dreading, whose bright arms
+He had attentive mark’d and shaggy crest
+Playing tremendous o’er his helmet’s height.
+His father and his gentle mother laugh’d,[32]
+And noble Hector lifting from his head575
+His dazzling helmet, placed it on the ground,
+Then kiss’d his boy and dandled him, and thus
+In earnest prayer the heavenly powers implored.
+Hear all ye Gods! as ye have given to me,
+So also on my son excelling might580
+Bestow, with chief authority in Troy.
+And be his record this, in time to come,
+When he returns from battle. Lo! how far
+The son excels the sire! May every foe
+Fall under him, and he come laden home585
+With spoils blood-stain’d to his dear mother’s joy.
+He said, and gave his infant to the arms
+Of his Andromache, who him received
+Into her fragrant bosom, bitter tears
+With sweet smiles mingling; he with pity moved590
+That sight observed, soft touch’d her cheek, and said,
+Mourn not, my loved Andromache, for me
+Too much; no man shall send me to the shades
+Of Tartarus, ere mine allotted hour,
+Nor lives he who can overpass the date595
+By heaven assign’d him, be he base or brave.[33]
+Go then, and occupy content at home
+The woman’s province; ply the distaff, spin
+And weave, and task thy maidens. War belongs
+To man; to all men; and of all who first600
+Drew vital breath in Ilium, most to me.[34]
+
+He ceased, and from the ground his helmet raised
+Hair-crested; his Andromache, at once
+Obedient, to her home repair’d, but oft
+Turn’d as she went, and, turning, wept afresh.605
+No sooner at the palace she arrived
+Of havoc-spreading Hector, than among
+Her numerous maidens found within, she raised
+A general lamentation; with one voice,
+In his own house, his whole domestic train610
+Mourn’d Hector, yet alive; for none the hope
+Conceived of his escape from Grecian hands,
+Or to behold their living master more.
+Nor Paris in his stately mansion long
+Delay’d, but, arm’d resplendent, traversed swift615
+The city, all alacrity and joy.
+As some stall’d horse high-fed, his stable-cord
+Snapt short, beats under foot the sounding plain,
+Accustomed in smooth-sliding streams to lave
+Exulting; high he bears his head, his mane620
+Undulates o’er his shoulders, pleased he eyes
+His glossy sides, and borne on pliant knees
+Shoots to the meadow where his fellows graze;
+So Paris, son of Priam, from the heights
+Of Pergamus into the streets of Troy,625
+All dazzling as the sun, descended, flush’d
+With martial pride, and bounding in his course.
+At once he came where noble Hector stood
+Now turning, after conference with his spouse,
+When godlike Alexander thus began.630
+My hero brother, thou hast surely found
+My long delay most irksome. More dispatch
+Had pleased thee more, for such was thy command.
+To whom the warlike Hector thus replied.
+No man, judicious, and in feat of arms635
+Intelligent, would pour contempt on thee
+(For thou art valiant) wert thou not remiss
+And wilful negligent; and when I hear
+The very men who labor in thy cause
+Reviling thee, I make thy shame my own.640
+But let us on. All such complaints shall cease
+Hereafter, and thy faults be touch’d no more,
+Let Jove but once afford us riddance clear
+Of these Achaians, and to quaff the cup
+Of liberty, before the living Gods.645
+
+
+It may be observed, that Hector begins to resume his hope of success,
+and his warlike spirit is roused again, as he approaches the field of
+action. The depressing effect of his sad interview is wearing away from
+his mind, and he is already prepared for the battle with Ajax, which
+awaits him.
+
+The student who has once read this book, will read it again and again.
+It contains much that is addressed to the deepest feelings of our
+common nature, and, despite of the long interval of time which lies
+between our age and the Homeric—despite the manifold changes of
+customs, habits, pursuits, and the advances that have been made in
+civilization and art—despite of all these, the universal spirit of
+humanity will recognize in these scenes much of that true poetry which
+delights alike all ages, all nations, all men.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK VII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE SEVENTH BOOK.
+
+Ajax and Hector engage in single combat. The Grecians fortify their
+camp.
+
+
+BOOK VII.
+
+
+So saying, illustrious Hector through the gates
+To battle rush’d, with Paris at his side,
+And both were bent on deeds of high renown.
+As when the Gods vouchsafe propitious gales
+To longing mariners, who with smooth oars5
+Threshing the waves have all their strength consumed,
+So them the longing Trojans glad received.
+At once each slew a Grecian. Paris slew
+Menesthius who in Arna dwelt, the son
+Of Areithoüs, club-bearing chief,10
+And of Philomedusa radiant-eyed.
+But Hector wounded with his glittering spear
+Eïoneus; he pierced his neck beneath
+His brazen morion’s verge, and dead he fell.
+Then Glaucus, leader of the Lycian host,15
+Son of Hippolochus, in furious fight
+Iphinoüs son of Dexias assail’d,
+Mounting his rapid mares, and with his lance
+His shoulder pierced; unhorsed he fell and died.
+Such slaughter of the Grecians in fierce fight20
+Minerva noting, from the Olympian hills
+Flew down to sacred Ilium; whose approach
+Marking from Pergamus, Apollo flew
+To meet her, ardent on the part of Troy.
+Beneath the beech they join’d, when first the King,25
+The son of Jove, Apollo thus began.
+
+Daughter of Jove supreme! why hast thou left
+Olympus, and with such impetuous speed?
+Comest thou to give the Danaï success
+Decisive? For I know that pity none30
+Thou feel’st for Trojans, perish as they may
+But if advice of mine can influence thee
+To that which shall be best, let us compose
+This day the furious fight which shall again
+Hereafter rage, till Ilium be destroy’d.35
+Since such is Juno’s pleasure and thy own.
+Him answer’d then Pallas cærulean-eyed.
+Celestial archer! be it so. I came
+Myself so purposing into the field
+From the Olympian heights. But by what means40
+Wilt thou induce the warriors to a pause?
+To whom the King, the son of Jove, replied.
+The courage of equestrian Hector bold
+Let us excite, that he may challenge forth
+To single conflict terrible some chief45
+Achaian. The Achaians brazen-mail’d
+Indignant, will supply a champion soon
+To combat with the noble Chief of Troy.
+So spake Apollo, and his counsel pleased
+Minerva; which when Helenus the seer,50
+Priam’s own son, in his prophetic soul
+Perceived, approaching Hector, thus he spake.
+Jove’s peer in wisdom, Hector, Priam’s son!
+I am thy brother. Wilt thou list to me?
+Bid cease the battle. Bid both armies sit.55
+Call first, thyself, the mightiest of the Greeks
+To single conflict. I have heard the voice
+Of the Eternal Gods, and well-assured
+Foretell thee that thy death not now impends.
+He spake, whom Hector heard with joy elate.60
+Before his van striding into the space
+Both hosts between, he with his spear transverse[1]
+Press’d back the Trojans, and they sat. Down sat
+The well-greaved Grecians also at command
+Of Agamemnon; and in shape assumed65
+Of vultures, Pallas and Apollo perch’d
+High on the lofty beech sacred to Jove
+The father Ægis-arm’d; delighted thence
+They view’d the peopled plain horrent around
+With shields and helms and glittering spears erect.70
+As when fresh-blowing Zephyrus the flood
+Sweeps first, the ocean blackens at the blast,
+Such seem’d the plain whereon the Achaians sat
+And Trojans, whom between thus Hector spake.
+Ye Trojans and Achaians brazen-greaved,75
+Attend while I shall speak! Jove high-enthroned
+Hath not fulfill’d the truce, but evil plans
+Against both hosts, till either ye shall take
+Troy’s lofty towers, or shall yourselves in flight
+Fall vanquish’d at your billow-cleaving barks.80
+With you is all the flower of Greece.[2] Let him
+Whose heart shall move him to encounter sole
+Illustrious Hector, from among you all
+Stand forth, and Jove be witness to us both.
+If he, with his long-pointed lance, of life85
+Shall me bereave, my armor is his prize,
+Which he shall hence into your fleet convey;
+Not so my body; that he shall resign
+For burial to the men and wives of Troy.
+But if Apollo make the glory mine,90
+And he fall vanquish’d, him will I despoil,
+And hence conveying into sacred Troy
+His arms, will in the temple hang them high[3]
+Of the bow-bender God, but I will send
+His body to the fleet, that him the Greeks95
+May grace with rights funereal. On the banks
+Of wide-spread Hellespont ye shall upraise
+His tomb, and as they cleave with oary barks
+The sable deep, posterity shall say—
+“It is a warrior’s tomb; in ancient days100
+The Hero died; him warlike Hector slew.”
+So men shall speak hereafter, and my fame
+Who slew him, and my praise, shall never die.
+He ceased, and all sat mute. His challenge bold
+None dared accept, which yet they blush’d to shun,105
+Till Menelaus, at the last, arose
+Groaning profound, and thus reproach’d the Greeks.
+Ah boasters! henceforth women—men no more—
+Eternal shame, shame infinite is ours,
+If none of all the Grecians dares contend110
+With Hector. Dastards—deaf to glory’s call—
+Rot where ye sit! I will myself take arms
+Against him, for the gods alone dispose,
+At their own pleasure, the events of war.
+He ended, and put on his radiant arms.115
+Then, Menelaus, manifest appear’d
+Thy death approaching by the dreadful hands
+Of Hector, mightier far in arms than thou,
+But that the Chiefs of the Achaians all
+Upstarting stay’d thee, and himself the King,120
+The son of Atreus, on thy better hand
+Seizing affectionate, thee thus address’d.
+Thou ravest, my royal brother! and art seized
+With needless frenzy. But, however chafed,
+Restrain thy wrath, nor covet to contend125
+With Priameian Hector, whom in fight
+All dread, a warrior thy superior far.
+Not even Achilles, in the glorious field
+(Though stronger far than thou) this hero meets
+Undaunted. Go then, and thy seat resume130
+In thy own band; the Achaians shall for him,
+Doubtless, some fitter champion furnish forth.
+Brave though he be, and with the toils of war
+Insatiable, he shall be willing yet,
+Seated on his bent knees, to breathe a while,135
+Should he escape the arduous brunt severe.
+So saying, the hero by his counsel wise
+His brother’s purpose alter’d; he complied,
+And his glad servants eased him of his arms.
+Then Nestor thus the Argive host bespake.140
+Great wo, ye Gods! hath on Achaia fallen.
+Now may the warlike Pelaus, hoary Chief,
+Who both with eloquence and wisdom rules
+The Myrmidons, our foul disgrace deplore.
+With him discoursing, erst, of ancient times,145
+When all your pedigrees I traced, I made
+His heart bound in him at the proud report.
+But now, when he shall learn how here we sat
+Cowering at the foot of Hector, he shall oft
+His hands uplift to the immortal Gods,150
+Praying a swift release into the shades.
+Jove! Pallas! Phœbus! Oh that I were young
+As when the Pylians in fierce fight engaged
+The Arcadians spear-expert, beside the stream
+Of rapid Celadon! Beneath the walls155
+We fought of Pheia, where the Jardan rolls.
+There Ereuthalion, Chief of godlike form,
+Stood forth before his van, and with loud voice
+Defied the Pylians. Arm’d he was in steel
+By royal Areïthous whilom worn;160
+Brave Areïthous, Corynetes[4] named
+By every tongue; for that in bow and spear
+Nought trusted he, but with an iron mace
+The close-embattled phalanx shatter’d wide.
+Him by address, not by superior force,165
+Lycurgus vanquish’d, in a narrow pass,
+Where him his iron whirl-bat[5] nought avail’d.
+Lycurgus stealing on him, with his lance
+Transpierced and fix’d him to the soil supine.
+Him of his arms, bright gift of brazen Mars,170
+He stripp’d, which after, in the embattled field
+Lycurgus wore himself, but, growing old,
+Surrender’d them to Ereuthalion’s use
+His armor-bearer, high in his esteem,
+And Ereuthalion wore them on the day175
+When he defied our best. All hung their heads
+And trembled; none dared meet him; till at last
+With inborn courage warm’d, and nought dismayed,
+Though youngest of them all, I undertook
+That contest, and, by Pallas’ aid, prevail’d.180
+I slew the man in height and bulk all men
+Surpassing, and much soil he cover’d slain.
+Oh for the vigor of those better days!
+Then should not Hector want a champion long,
+Whose call to combat, ye, although the prime185
+And pride of all our land, seem slow to hear.
+He spake reproachful, when at once arose
+Nine heroes. Agamemnon, King of men,
+Foremost arose; then Tydeus’ mighty son,
+With either Ajax in fierce prowess clad;190
+The Cretan next, Idomeneus, with whom
+Uprose Meriones his friend approved,
+Terrible as the man-destroyer Mars.
+Evæmon’s noble offspring next appear’d
+Eurypylus; Andræmon’s son the next195
+Thoas; and last, Ulysses, glorious Chief.
+All these stood ready to engage in arms
+With warlike Hector, when the ancient King,
+Gerenian Nestor, thus his speech resumed.
+Now cast the lot for all. Who wins the chance200
+Shall yield Achaia service, and himself
+Serve also, if successful he escape
+This brunt of hostile hardiment severe.
+So Nestor. They, inscribing each his lot,
+Into the helmet cast it of the son205
+Of Atreus, Agamemnon. Then the host
+Pray’d all, their hands uplifting, and with eyes
+To the wide heavens directed, many said[6]—
+Eternal sire! choose Ajax, or the son
+Of Tydeus, or the King himself[7] who sways210
+The sceptre in Mycenæ wealth-renown’d!
+Such prayer the people made; then Nestor shook
+The helmet, and forth leaped, whose most they wished,
+The lot of Ajax. Throughout all the host
+To every chief and potentate of Greece,215
+From right to left the herald bore the lot
+By all disown’d; but when at length he reach’d
+The inscriber of the lot, who cast it in,
+Illustrious Ajax, in his open palm
+The herald placed it, standing at his side.220
+He, conscious, with heroic joy the lot
+Cast at his foot, and thus exclaim’d aloud.
+My friends! the lot is mine,[8] and my own heart
+Rejoices also; for I nothing doubt
+That noble Hector shall be foil’d by me.225
+But while I put mine armor on, pray all
+In silence to the King Saturnian Jove,
+Lest, while ye pray, the Trojans overhear.
+Or pray aloud, for whom have we to dread?
+No man shall my firm standing by his strength230
+Unsettle, or for ignorance of mine
+Me vanquish, who, I hope, brought forth and train’d
+In Salamis, have, now, not much to learn.
+He ended. They with heaven-directed eyes
+The King in prayer address’d, Saturnian Jove.235
+Jove! glorious father! who from Ida’s height
+Controlest all below, let Ajax prove
+Victorious; make the honor all his own!
+Or, if not less than Ajax, Hector share
+Thy love and thy regard, divide the prize240
+Of glory, and let each achieve renown!
+Then Ajax put his radiant armor on,
+And, arm’d complete, rush’d forward. As huge Mars
+To battle moves the sons of men between
+Whom Jove with heart-devouring thirst inspires245
+Of war, so moved huge Ajax to the fight,
+Tower of the Greeks, dilating with a smile
+His martial features terrible; on feet,
+Firm-planted, to the combat he advanced
+Stride after stride, and shook his quivering spear.250
+Him viewing, Argos’ universal host
+Exulted, while a panic loosed the knees
+Of every Trojan; even Hector’s heart
+Beat double, but escape for him remain’d
+None now, or to retreat into his ranks255
+Again, from whom himself had challenged forth.
+Ajax advancing like a tower his shield
+Sevenfold, approach’d. It was the labor’d work
+Of Tychius, armorer of matchless skill,
+Who dwelt in Hyla; coated with the hides260
+Of seven high-pamper’d bulls that shield he framed
+For Ajax, and the disk plated with brass.
+Advancing it before his breast, the son
+Of Telamon approach’d the Trojan Chief,
+And face to face, him threatening, thus began.265
+Now, Hector, prove, by me alone opposed,
+What Chiefs the Danaï can furnish forth
+In absence of the lion-hearted prince
+Achilles, breaker of the ranks of war.
+He, in his billow-cleaving barks incensed270
+Against our leader Agamemnon, lies;
+But warriors of my measure, who may serve
+To cope with thee, we want not; numerous such
+Are found amongst us. But begin the fight.
+To whom majestic Hector fierce in arms.275
+Ajax! heroic leader of the Greeks!
+Offspring of Telamon! essay not me
+With words to terrify, as I were boy.
+Or girl unskill’d in war;[9] I am a man
+Well exercised in battle, who have shed280
+The blood of many a warrior, and have learn’d,
+From hand to hand shifting my shield, to fight
+Unwearied; I can make a sport of war,
+In standing fight adjusting all my steps
+To martial measures sweet, or vaulting light285
+Into my chariot, thence can urge the foe.
+Yet in contention with a Chief like thee
+I will employ no stratagem, or seek
+To smite thee privily, but with a stroke
+(If I may reach thee) visible to all.290
+So saying, he shook, then hurl’d his massy spear
+At Ajax, and his broad shield sevenfold
+On its eighth surface of resplendent brass
+Smote full; six hides the unblunted weapon pierced,
+But in the seventh stood rooted. Ajax, next,295
+Heroic Chief, hurl’d his long shadow’d spear
+And struck the oval shield of Priam’s son.
+Through his bright disk the weapon tempest-driven
+Glided, and in his hauberk-rings infixt
+At his soft flank, ripp’d wide his vest within.300
+Inclined oblique he ’scaped the dreadful doom
+Then each from other’s shield his massy spear
+Recovering quick, like lions hunger-pinch’d
+Or wild boars irresistible in force,
+They fell to close encounter. Priam’s son305
+The shield of Ajax at its centre smote,
+But fail’d to pierce it, for he bent his point.
+Sprang Ajax then, and meeting full the targe
+Of Hector, shock’d him; through it and beyond
+He urged the weapon with its sliding edge310
+Athwart his neck, and blood was seen to start.
+But still, for no such cause, from battle ceased
+Crest-tossing Hector, but retiring, seized
+A huge stone angled sharp and black with age
+That on the champain lay. The bull-hide guard315
+Sevenfold of Ajax with that stone he smote
+Full on its centre; sang the circling brass.
+Then Ajax far a heavier stone upheaved;
+He whirled it, and with might immeasurable
+Dismiss’d the mass, which with a mill-stone weight320
+Sank through the shield of Hector, and his knees
+Disabled; with his shield supine he fell,
+But by Apollo raised, stood soon again.
+And now, with swords they had each other hewn,
+Had not the messengers of Gods and men325
+The heralds wise, Idæus on the part
+Of Ilium, and Talthybius for the Greeks,
+Advancing interposed. His sceptre each
+Between them held, and thus Idæus spake.[10]
+My children, cease! prolong not still the fight.330
+Ye both are dear to cloud-assembler Jove,
+Both valiant, and all know it. But the Night
+Hath fallen, and Night’s command must be obeyed.
+To him the son of Telamon replied.
+Idæus! bid thy master speak as thou.335
+He is the challenger. If such his choice,
+Mine differs not; I wait but to comply.
+Him answer’d then heroic Hector huge.
+Since, Ajax, the immortal powers on thee
+Have bulk pre-eminent and strength bestow’d,340
+With such address in battle, that the host
+Of Greece hath not thine equal at the spear,
+Now let the combat cease. We shall not want
+More fair occasion; on some future day
+We will not part till all-disposing heaven345
+Shall give thee victory, or shall make her mine.
+But Night hath fallen, and Night must be obey’d,
+That them may’st gratify with thy return
+The Achaians, and especially thy friends
+And thy own countrymen. I go, no less350
+To exhilarate in Priam’s royal town
+Men and robed matrons, who shall seek the Gods
+For me, with pious ceremonial due.
+But come. We will exchange, or ere we part,
+Some princely gift, that Greece and Troy may say355
+Hereafter, with soul-wasting rage they fought,
+But parted with the gentleness of friends.
+So saying, he with his sheath and belt a sword
+Presented bright-emboss’d, and a bright belt
+Purpureal[11] took from Ajax in return.360
+Thus separated, one the Grecians sought,
+And one the Trojans; they when him they saw
+From the unconquer’d hands return’d alive
+Of Ajax, with delight their Chief received,
+And to the city led him, double joy365
+Conceiving all at his unhoped escape.
+On the other side, the Grecians brazen-mail’d
+To noble Agamemnon introduced
+Exulting Ajax, and the King of men
+In honor of the conqueror slew an ox370
+Of the fifth year to Jove omnipotent.
+Him flaying first, they carved him next and spread
+The whole abroad, then, scoring deep the flesh,
+They pierced it with the spits, and from the spits
+(Once roasted well) withdrew it all again.375
+Their labor thus accomplish’d, and the board
+Furnish’d with plenteous cheer, they feasted all
+Till all were satisfied; nor Ajax miss’d
+The conqueror’s meed, to whom the hero-king
+Wide-ruling Agamemnon, gave the chine[12]380
+Perpetual,[13] his distinguish’d portion due.
+The calls of hunger and of thirst at length
+Both well sufficed, thus, foremost of them all
+The ancient Nestor, whose advice had oft
+Proved salutary, prudent thus began.385
+Chiefs of Achaia, and thou, chief of all,
+Great Agamemnon! Many of our host
+Lie slain, whose blood sprinkles, in battle shed,
+The banks of smooth Scamander, and their souls
+Have journey’d down into the realms of death.390
+To-morrow, therefore, let the battle pause
+As need requires, and at the peep of day
+With mules and oxen, wheel ye from all parts
+The dead, that we may burn them near the fleet.
+So, home to Greece returning, will we give395
+The fathers’ ashes to the children’s care.
+Accumulating next, the pile around,
+One common tomb for all, with brisk dispatch
+We will upbuild for more secure defence
+Of us and of our fleet, strong towers and tall400
+Adjoining to the tomb, and every tower
+Shall have its ponderous gate, commodious pass
+Affording to the mounted charioteer.
+And last, without those towers and at their foot,
+Dig we a trench, which compassing around405
+Our camp, both steeds and warriors shall exclude,
+And all fierce inroad of the haughty foe.
+So counsell’d he, whom every Chief approved.
+In Troy meantime, at Priam’s gate beside
+The lofty citadel, debate began410
+The assembled senators between, confused,
+Clamorous, and with furious heat pursued,
+When them Antenor, prudent, thus bespake.
+Ye Trojans, Dardans, and allies of Troy,
+My counsel hear! Delay not. Instant yield415
+To the Atridæ, hence to be convey’d,
+Helen of Greece with all that is her own.
+For charged with violated oaths we fight,
+And hope I none conceive that aught by us
+Design’d shall prosper, unless so be done.420
+He spake and sat; when from his seat arose
+Paris, fair Helen’s noble paramour,
+Who thus with speech impassion’d quick replied.
+Antenor! me thy counsel hath not pleased;
+Thou could’st have framed far better; but if this425
+Be thy deliberate judgment, then the Gods
+Make thy deliberate judgment nothing worth.
+But I will speak myself. Ye Chiefs of Troy,
+I tell you plain. I will not yield my spouse.
+But all her treasures to our house convey’d430
+From Argos, those will I resign, and add
+Still other compensation from my own.
+Thus Paris said and sat; when like the Gods
+Themselves in wisdom, from his seat uprose
+Dardanian Priam, who them thus address’d.435
+Trojans, Dardanians, and allies of Troy!
+I shall declare my sentence; hear ye me.
+Now let the legions, as at other times,
+Take due refreshment; let the watch be set,
+And keep ye vigilant guard. At early dawn440
+We will dispatch Idæus to the fleet,
+Who shall inform the Atridæ of this last
+Resolve of Paris, author of the war.
+Discreet Idæus also shall propose
+A respite (if the Atridæ so incline)445
+From war’s dread clamor, while we burn the dead.
+Then will we clash again, till heaven at length
+Shall part us, and the doubtful strife decide.
+He ceased, whose voice the assembly pleased, obey’d.
+Then, troop by troop, the army took repast,450
+And at the dawn Idæus sought the fleet.
+He found the Danaï, servants of Mars,
+Beside the stern of Agamemnon’s ship
+Consulting; and amid the assembled Chiefs
+Arrived, with utterance clear them thus address’d.455
+Ye sons of Atreus, and ye Chiefs, the flower
+Of all Achaia! Priam and the Chiefs
+Of Ilium, bade me to your ear impart
+(If chance such embassy might please your ear)
+The mind of Paris, author of the war.460
+The treasures which on board his ships he brought
+From Argos home (oh, had he perish’d first!)
+He yields them with addition from his own.
+Not so the consort of the glorious prince
+Brave Menelaus; her (although in Troy465
+All counsel otherwise) he still detains.
+Thus too I have in charge. Are ye inclined
+That the dread sounding clamors of the field
+Be caused to cease till we shall burn the dead?
+Then will we clash again, till heaven at length470
+Shall part us, and the doubtful strife decide.
+So spake Idæus, and all silent sat;
+Till at the last brave Diomede replied.
+No. We will none of Paris’ treasures now,
+Nor even Helen’s self. A child may see475
+Destruction winging swift her course to Troy.
+He said. The admiring Greeks with loud applause
+All praised the speech of warlike Diomede,
+And answer thus the King of men return’d.
+Idæus! thou hast witness’d the resolve480
+Of the Achaian Chiefs, whose choice is mine.
+But for the slain, I shall not envy them
+A funeral pile; the spirit fled, delay
+Suits not. Last rites can not too soon be paid.
+Burn them. And let high-thundering Jove attest485
+Himself mine oath, that war shall cease the while.
+So saying, he to all the Gods upraised
+His sceptre, and Idæus homeward sped
+To sacred Ilium. The Dardanians there
+And Trojans, all assembled, his return490
+Expected anxious. He amid them told
+Distinct his errand, when, at once dissolved,
+The whole assembly rose, these to collect
+The scatter’d bodies, those to gather wood;
+While on the other side, the Greeks arose495
+As sudden, and all issuing from the fleet
+Sought fuel, some, and some, the scatter’d dead.
+Now from the gently-swelling flood profound
+The sun arising, with his earliest rays
+In his ascent to heaven smote on the fields.500
+When Greeks and Trojans met. Scarce could the slain
+Be clear distinguish’d, but they cleansed from each
+His clotted gore with water, and warm tears
+Distilling copious, heaved them to the wains.
+But wailing none was heard, for such command505
+Had Priam issued; therefore heaping high
+The bodies, silent and with sorrowing hearts
+They burn’d them, and to sacred Troy return’d.
+The Grecians also, on the funeral pile
+The bodies heaping sad, burn’d them with fire510
+Together, and return’d into the fleet.
+Then, ere the peep of dawn, and while the veil
+Of night, though thinner, still o’erhung the earth,
+Achaians, chosen from the rest, the pile
+Encompass’d. With a tomb (one tomb for all)515
+They crown’d the spot adust, and to the tomb
+(For safety of their fleet and of themselves)
+Strong fortress added of high wall and tower,
+With solid gates affording egress thence
+Commodious to the mounted charioteer;520
+Deep foss and broad they also dug without,
+And planted it with piles. So toil’d the Greeks.
+
+The Gods, that mighty labor, from beside
+The Thunderer’s throne with admiration view’d,
+When Neptune, shaker of the shores, began.525
+Eternal father! is there on the face
+Of all the boundless earth one mortal man
+Who will, in times to come, consult with heaven?
+See’st thou yon height of wall, and yon deep trench
+With which the Grecians have their fleet inclosed,530
+And, careless of our blessing, hecatomb
+Or invocation have presented none?
+Far as the day-spring shoots herself abroad,
+So far the glory of this work shall spread,
+While Phœbus and myself, who, toiling hard,535
+Built walls for king Laomedon, shall see
+Forgotten all the labor of our hands.
+To whom, indignant, thus high-thundering Jove.
+Oh thou, who shakest the solid earth at will,
+What hast thou spoken? An inferior power,540
+A god of less sufficiency than thou,
+Might be allowed some fear from such a cause.
+Fear not. Where’er the morning shoots her beams,
+Thy glory shall be known; and when the Greeks
+Shall seek their country through the waves again,545
+Then break this bulwark down, submerge it whole,
+And spreading deep with sand the spacious shore
+As at the first, leave not a trace behind.
+Such conference held the Gods; and now the sun
+Went down, and, that great work perform’d, the Greeks550
+From tent to tent slaughter’d the fatted ox
+And ate their evening cheer. Meantime arrived
+Large fleet with Lemnian wine; Euneus, son
+Of Jason and Hypsipile, that fleet
+From Lemnos freighted, and had stow’d on board555
+A thousand measures from the rest apart
+For the Atridæ; but the host at large
+By traffic were supplied; some barter’d brass,
+Others bright steel; some purchased wine with hides,
+These with their cattle, with their captives those,560
+And the whole host prepared a glad regale.
+All night the Grecians feasted, and the host
+Of Ilium, and all night deep-planning Jove
+Portended dire calamities to both,
+Thundering tremendous!—Pale was every cheek;565
+Each pour’d his goblet on the ground, nor dared
+The hardiest drink, till he had first perform’d
+Libation meet to the Saturnian King
+Omnipotent; then, all retiring, sought
+Their couches, and partook the gift of sleep.570
+
+
+
+
+BOOK VIII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE EIGHTH BOOK.
+
+Jove calls a council, in which he forbids all interference of the Gods
+between the Greeks and Trojans. He repairs to Ida, where, having
+consulted the scales of destiny, he directs his lightning against the
+Grecians. Nestor is endangered by the death of one of his horses.
+Diomede delivers him. In the chariot of Diomede they both hasten to
+engage Hector, whose charioteer is slain by Diomede. Jupiter again
+interposes by his thunders, and the whole Grecian host, discomfited, is
+obliged to seek refuge within the rampart. Diomede, with others, at
+sight of a favorable omen sent from Jove in answer to Agamemnon’s
+prayer, sallies. Teucer performs great exploits, but is disabled by
+Hector. Juno and Pallas set forth from Olympus in aid of the Grecians,
+but are stopped by Jupiter, who reascends from Ida, and in heaven
+foretells the distresses which await the Grecians.
+
+Hector takes measures for the security of Troy during the night, and
+prepares his host for an assault to be made on the Grecian camp in the
+morning.
+
+
+BOOK VIII.
+
+
+The saffron-mantled morning[1] now was spread
+O’er all the nations, when the Thunderer Jove
+On the deep-fork’d Olympian topmost height
+Convened the Gods in council, amid whom
+He spake himself; they all attentive heard.5
+Gods! Goddesses! Inhabitants of heaven!
+Attend; I make my secret purpose known.
+Let neither God nor Goddess interpose
+My counsel to rescind, but with one heart
+Approve it, that it reach, at once, its end.10
+Whom I shall mark soever from the rest
+Withdrawn, that he may Greeks or Trojans aid,
+Disgrace shall find him; shamefully chastised
+He shall return to the Olympian heights,
+Or I will hurl him deep into the gulfs15
+Of gloomy Tartarus, where Hell shuts fast
+Her iron gates, and spreads her brazen floor,
+As far below the shades, as earth from heaven.
+There shall he learn how far I pass in might
+All others; which if ye incline to doubt,20
+Now prove me. Let ye down the golden chain[2]
+From heaven, and at its nether links pull all,
+Both Goddesses and Gods. But me your King,
+Supreme in wisdom, ye shall never draw
+To earth from heaven, toil adverse as ye may.25
+Yet I, when once I shall be pleased to pull,
+The earth itself, itself the sea, and you
+Will lift with ease together, and will wind
+The chain around the spiry summit sharp
+Of the Olympian, that all things upheaved30
+Shall hang in the mid heaven. So far do I,
+Compared with all who live, transcend them all.
+He ended, and the Gods long time amazed
+Sat silent, for with awful tone he spake:
+But at the last Pallas blue-eyed began.35
+Father! Saturnian Jove! of Kings supreme!
+We know thy force resistless; but our hearts
+Feel not the less, when we behold the Greeks
+Exhausting all the sorrows of their lot.
+If thou command, we, doubtless, will abstain40
+From battle, yet such counsel to the Greeks
+Suggesting still, as may in part effect
+Their safety, lest thy wrath consume them all.
+To whom with smiles answer’d cloud-gatherer Jove.
+Fear not, my child! stern as mine accent was,45
+I forced a frown—no more. For in mine heart
+Nought feel I but benevolence to thee.
+He said, and to his chariot join’d his steeds
+Swift, brazen-hoof’d, and mailed with wavy gold;
+He put on golden raiment, his bright scourge50
+Of gold receiving rose into his seat,
+And lash’d his steeds; they not unwilling flew
+Midway the earth between and starry heaven.
+To spring-fed Ida, mother of wild beasts,
+He came, where stands in Gargarus[3] his shrine55
+Breathing fresh incense! there the Sire of all
+Arriving, loosed his coursers, and around
+Involving them in gather’d clouds opaque,
+Sat on the mountain’s head, in his own might
+Exulting, with the towers of Ilium all60
+Beneath his eye, and the whole fleet of Greece.
+In all their tents, meantime, Achaia’s sons
+Took short refreshment, and for fight prepared.
+On the other side, though fewer, yet constrain’d
+By strong necessity, throughout all Troy,65
+In the defence of children and wives
+Ardent, the Trojans panted for the field.
+Wide flew the city gates: forth rush’d to war
+Horsemen and foot, and tumult wild arose.
+They met, they clash’d; loud was the din of spears70
+And bucklers on their bosoms brazen-mail’d
+Encountering, shields in opposition from
+Met bossy shields, and tumult wild arose.[4]
+There many a shout and many a dying groan
+Were heard, the slayer and the maim’d aloud75
+Clamoring, and the earth was drench’d with blood.
+Till sacred morn[5] had brighten’d into noon,
+The vollied weapons on both sides their task
+Perform’d effectual, and the people fell.
+But when the sun had climb’d the middle skies,80
+The Sire of all then took his golden scales;[6]
+Doom against doom he weigh’d, the eternal fates
+In counterpoise, of Trojans and of Greeks.
+He rais’d the beam; low sank the heavier lot
+Of the Achaians; the Achaian doom85
+Subsided, and the Trojan struck the skies.
+Then roar’d the thunders from the summit hurl’d
+of Ida, and his vivid lightnings flew
+Into Achaia’s host. They at the sight
+Astonish’d stood; fear whiten’d every cheek.[7]90
+Idomeneus dared not himself abide
+That shock, nor Agamemnon stood, nor stood
+The heroes Ajax, ministers of Mars.
+Gerenian Nestor, guardian of the Greeks,
+Alone fled not, nor he by choice remain’d,95
+But by his steed retarded, which the mate
+Of beauteous Helen, Paris, with a shaft
+Had stricken where the forelock grows, a part
+Of all most mortal. Tortured by the wound
+Erect he rose, the arrow in his brain,100
+And writhing furious, scared his fellow-steeds.
+Meantime, while, strenuous, with his falchion’s edge
+The hoary warrior stood slashing the reins,
+Through multitudes of fierce pursuers borne
+On rapid wheels, the dauntless charioteer105
+Approach’d him, Hector. Then, past hope, had died
+The ancient King, but Diomede discern’d
+His peril imminent, and with a voice
+Like thunder, called Ulysses to his aid.
+Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!110
+Art thou too fugitive, and turn’st thy back
+Like the base multitude? Ah! fear a lance
+Implanted ignominious in thy spine.
+Stop—Nestor dies. Fell Hector is at hand.
+So shouted Diomede, whose summons loud,115
+Ulysses yet heard not, but, passing, flew
+With headlong haste to the Achaian fleet.
+Then, Diomede, unaided as he was,
+Rush’d ardent to the vanward, and before
+The steeds of the Neleian sovereign old120
+Standing, in accents wing’d, him thus address’d.
+Old Chief! these youthful warriors are too brisk
+For thee, press’d also by encroaching age,
+Thy servant too is feeble, and thy steeds
+Are tardy. Mount my chariot. Thou shalt see125
+With what rapidity the steeds of Troy,
+Pursuing or retreating, scour the field.
+I took them from that terror of his foes,
+Æneas. Thine to our attendants leave,
+While these against the warlike powers of Troy130
+We push direct; that Hector’s self may know
+If my spear rage not furious as his own.
+He said, nor the Gerenian Chief refused.
+Thenceforth their servants, Sthenelus and good
+Eurymedon, took charge of Nestor’s steeds,135
+And they the chariot of Tydides both
+Ascended; Nestor seized the reins, plied well
+The scourge, and soon they met. Tydides hurl’d
+At Hector first, while rapid he advanced;
+But missing Hector, wounded in the breast140
+Eniopeus his charioteer, the son
+Of brave Thebæus, managing the steeds.
+He fell; his fiery coursers at the sound
+Startled, recoil’d, and where he fell he died.
+Deep sorrow for his charioteer o’erwhelm’d145
+The mind of Hector; yet, although he mourn’d
+He left him, and another sought as brave.
+Nor wanted long his steeds a charioteer,
+For finding soon the son of Iphitus,
+Bold Archeptolemus, he bade him mount150
+His chariot, and the reins gave to his hand.
+Then deeds of bloodiest note should have ensued,
+Penn’d had the Trojans been, as lambs, in Troy,
+But for quick succor of the sire of all.
+Thundering, he downward hurled his candent bolt155
+To the horse-feet of Diomede; dire fumed
+The flaming sulphur, and both horses drove
+Under the axle, belly to the ground.
+Forth flew the splendid reins from Nestor’s hand,
+And thus to Diomede, appall’d, he spake.160
+
+Back to the fleet, Tydides! Can’st not see
+That Jove ordains not, now, the victory thine?
+The son of Saturn glorifies to-day
+This Trojan, and, if such his will, can make
+The morrow ours; but vain it is to thwart165
+The mind of Jove, for he is Lord of all.
+To him the valiant Diomede replied.
+Thou hast well said, old warrior! but the pang
+That wrings my soul, is this. The public ear
+In Ilium shall from Hector’s lips be told—170
+I drove Tydides—fearing me he fled.
+So shall he vaunt, and may the earth her jaws
+That moment opening swallow me alive!
+Him answer’d the Gerenian warrior old.
+What saith the son of Tydeus, glorious Chief?175
+Should Hector so traduce thee as to call
+Thee base and timid, neither Trojan him
+Nor Dardan would believe, nor yet the wives
+Of numerous shielded warriors brave of Troy,
+Widow’d by thy unconquerable arm.180
+So saying, he through the fugitives his steeds
+Turn’d swift to flight. Then Hector and his host
+With clamor infinite their darts wo-wing’d
+Shower’d after them, and Hector, mighty Chief
+Majestic, from afar, thus call’d aloud.185
+Tydides! thee the Danaï swift-horsed
+Were wont to grace with a superior seat,
+The mess of honor, and the brimming cup,
+But now will mock thee. Thou art woman now.
+Go, timorous girl! Thou never shalt behold190
+Me flying, climb our battlements, or lead
+Our women captive. I will slay thee first.
+He ceased. Then Diomede in dread suspense
+Thrice purposed, turning, to withstand the foe,
+And thrice in thunder from the mountain-top195
+Jove gave the signal of success to Troy.
+When Hector thus the Trojans hail’d aloud.
+Trojans and Lycians, and close-warring sons
+Of Dardanus, oh summon all your might,
+Now, now be men! I know that from his heart200
+Saturnian Jove glory and bright success
+For me prepares, but havoc for the Greeks.
+Fools! they shall find this wall which they have raised
+Too weak to check my course, a feeble guard
+Contemptible; such also is the trench;205
+My steeds shall slight it with an easy leap.
+But when ye see me in their fleet arrived,
+Remember fire. Then bring me flaming brands
+That I may burn their galleys and themselves
+Slaughter beside them, struggling in the smoke.[8]210
+He spake, and thus encouraged next his steeds.
+Xanthus! Podargus! and ye generous pair
+Æthon and glossy Lampus! now requite
+Mine, and the bounty of Andromache,
+Far-famed Eëtion’s daughter; she your bowl215
+With corn fresh-flavor’d and with wine full oft
+Hath mingled, your refreshment seeking first
+Ere mine, who have a youthful husband’s claim.[9]
+Now follow! now be swift; that we may seize
+The shield of Nestor, bruited to the skies220
+As golden all, trappings and disk alike.
+Now from the shoulders of the equestrian Chief
+Tydides tear we off his splendid mail,
+The work of Vulcan.[10] May we take but these,
+I have good hope that, ere this night be spent,225
+The Greeks shall climb their galleys and away.
+So vaunted he, but Juno with disdain
+His proud boast heard, and shuddering in her throne,
+Rock’d the Olympian; turning then toward
+The Ocean’s mighty sovereign, thus she spake.230
+Alas! earth-shaking sovereign of the waves,
+Feel’st thou no pity of the perishing Greeks?
+Yet Greece, in Helice, with gifts nor few
+Nor sordid, and in Ægæ, honors thee,
+Whom therefore thou shouldst prosper. Would we all235
+Who favor Greece associate to repulse
+The Trojans, and to check loud-thundering Jove,
+On Ida seated he might lour alone.
+To whom the Sovereign, Shaker of the Shores,
+Indignant. Juno! rash in speech! what word240
+Hath ’scaped thy lips? never, with my consent,
+Shall we, the powers subordinate, in arms
+With Jove contend. He far excels us all.
+So they. Meantime, the trench and wall between,[11]
+The narrow interval with steeds was fill’d245
+Close throng’d and shielded warriors. There immew’d
+By Priameian Hector, fierce as Mars,
+They stood, for Hector had the help of Jove.
+And now with blazing fire their gallant barks
+He had consumed, but Juno moved the mind250
+Of Agamemnon, vigilant himself,
+To exhortation of Achaia’s host.
+Through camp and fleet the monarch took his way,
+And, his wide robe imperial in his hand,
+High on Ulysses’ huge black galley stood,255
+The central ship conspicuous; thence his voice
+Might reach the most remote of all the line
+At each extreme, where Ajax had his tent
+Pitch’d, and Achilles, fearless of surprise.
+Thence, with loud voice, the Grecians thus he hail’d.260
+Oh shame to Greece! Warriors in show alone!
+Where is your boasted prowess? Ye profess’d
+Vain-glorious erst in Lemnos, while ye fed
+Plenteously on the flesh of beeves full-grown,
+And crown’d your beakers high, that ye would face265
+Each man a hundred Trojans in the field—
+Ay, twice a hundred—yet are all too few
+To face one Hector now; nor doubt I aught
+But he shall soon fire the whole fleet of Greece.
+Jove! Father! what great sovereign ever felt270
+Thy frowns as I? Whom hast thou shamed as me?
+Yet I neglected not, through all the course
+Of our disasterous voyage (in the hope
+That we should vanquish Troy) thy sacred rites,
+But where I found thine altar, piled it high275
+With fat and flesh of bulls, on every shore.
+But oh, vouchsafe to us, that we at least
+Ourselves, deliver’d, may escape the sword,
+Nor let their foes thus tread the Grecians down!
+He said. The eternal father pitying saw280
+His tears, and for the monarch’s sake preserved
+The people. Instant, surest of all signs,
+He sent his eagle; in his pounces strong
+A fawn he bore, fruit of the nimble hind,
+Which fast beside the beauteous altar raised285
+To Panomphæan[12] Jove sudden he dropp’d.[13]
+They, conscious, soon, that sent from Jove he came,
+More ardent sprang to fight. Then none of all
+Those numerous Chiefs could boast that he outstripp’d
+Tydides, urging forth beyond the foss290
+His rapid steeds, and rushing to the war.
+He, foremost far, a Trojan slew, the son
+Of Phradmon, Ageläus; as he turn’d
+His steeds to flight, him turning with his spear
+Through back and bosom Diomede transpierced.295
+And with loud clangor of his arms he fell.
+Then, royal Agamemnon pass’d the trench
+And Menelaus; either Ajax, then,
+Clad with fresh prowess both; them follow’d, next,
+Idomeneus, with his heroic friend300
+In battle dread as homicidal Mars,
+Meriones; Evæmon’s son renown’d
+Succeeded, bold Eurypylus; and ninth
+Teucer, wide-straining his impatient bow.
+He under covert fought of the broad shield305
+Of Telamonian Ajax; Ajax high
+Upraised his shield; the hero from beneath
+Took aim, and whom his arrow struck, he fell;
+Then close as to his mother’s side a child
+For safety creeps, Teucer to Ajax’ side310
+Retired, and Ajax shielded him again.
+Whom then slew Teucer first, illustrious Chief?
+Orsilochus, and Ophelestes, first,
+And Ormenus he slew, then Dætor died,
+Chromius and Lycophontes brave in fight315
+With Amopaon Polyæmon’s son,
+And Melanippus. These, together heap’d,
+All fell by Teucer on the plain of Troy.
+The Trojan ranks thinn’d by his mighty bow
+The King of armies Agamemnon saw320
+Well-pleased, and him approaching, thus began.
+Brave Telamonian Teucer, oh, my friend,
+Thus shoot, that light may visit once again
+The Danaï, and Telamon rejoice!
+Thee Telamon within his own abode325
+Rear’d although spurious; mount him, in return,
+Although remote, on glory’s heights again.
+I tell thee, and the effect shall follow sure,
+Let but the Thunderer and Minerva grant
+The pillage of fair Ilium to the Greeks,330
+And I will give to thy victorious hand,
+After my own, the noblest recompense,
+A tripod or a chariot with its steeds,
+Or some fair captive to partake thy bed.
+To whom the generous Teucer thus replied.335
+Atrides! glorious monarch! wherefore me
+Exhortest thou to battle? who myself
+Glow with sufficient ardor, and such strength
+As heaven affords me spare not to employ.
+Since first we drove them back, with watchful eye340
+Their warriors I have mark’d; eight shafts my bow
+Hath sent long-barb’d, and every shaft, well-aim’d.
+The body of some Trojan youth robust
+Hath pierced, but still you ravening wolf escapes.
+He said, and from the nerve another shaft345
+Impatient sent at Hector; but it flew
+Devious, and brave Gorgythion struck instead.
+Him beautiful Castianira, brought
+By Priam from Æsyma, nymph of form
+Celestial, to the King of Ilium bore.350
+As in the garden, with the weight surcharged
+Of its own fruit, and drench’d by vernal rains
+The poppy falls oblique, so he his head
+Hung languid, by his helmet’s weight depress’d.[14]
+Then Teucer yet an arrow from the nerve355
+Dispatch’d at Hector, with impatience fired
+To pierce him; but again his weapon err’d
+Turn’d by Apollo, and the bosom struck
+Of Archeptolemus, his rapid steeds
+To battle urging, Hector’s charioteer.360
+He fell, his fiery coursers at the sound
+Recoil’d, and lifeless where he fell he lay.
+Deep sorrow for his charioteer the mind
+O’erwhelm’d of Hector, yet he left the slain,
+And seeing his own brother nigh at hand,365
+Cebriones, him summon’d to the reins,
+Who with alacrity that charge received.
+Then Hector, leaping with a dreadful shout
+From his resplendent chariot, grasp’d a stone,
+And rush’d on Teucer, vengeance in his heart.370
+Teucer had newly fitted to the nerve
+An arrow keen selected from the rest,
+And warlike Hector, while he stood the cord
+Retracting, smote him with that rugged rock
+Just where the key-bone interposed divides375
+The neck and bosom, a most mortal part.
+It snapp’d the bow-string, and with numbing force
+Struck dead his hand; low on his knees he dropp’d,
+And from his opening grasp let fall the bow.
+Then not unmindful of a brother fallen380
+Was Ajax, but, advancing rapid, stalk’d
+Around him, and his broad shield interposed,
+Till brave Alaster and Mecisteus, son
+Of Echius, friends of Teucer, from the earth
+Upraised and bore him groaning to the fleet.385
+And now again fresh force Olympian Jove
+Gave to the Trojans; right toward the foss
+They drove the Greeks, while Hector in the van
+Advanced, death menacing in every look.
+As some fleet hound close-threatening flank or haunch390
+Of boar or lion, oft as he his head
+Turns flying, marks him with a steadfast eye,
+So Hector chased the Grecians, slaying still
+The hindmost of the scatter’d multitude.
+But when, at length, both piles and hollow foss395
+They had surmounted, and no few had fallen
+By Trojan hands, within their fleet they stood
+Imprison’d, calling each to each, and prayer
+With lifted hands, loud offering to the Gods.
+With Gorgon looks, meantime, and eyes of Mars,400
+Hector impetuous his mane-tossing steeds
+From side to side before the rampart drove,
+When white-arm’d Juno pitying the Greeks,
+In accents wing’d her speech to Pallas turn’d.
+Alas, Jove’s daughter! shall not we at least405
+In this extremity of their distress
+Care for the Grecians by the fatal force
+Of this one Chief destroy’d? I can endure
+The rage of Priameïan Hector now
+No longer; such dire mischiefs he hath wrought.410
+Whom answer’d thus Pallas, cærulean-eyed.
+—And Hector had himself long since his life
+Resign’d and rage together, by the Greeks
+Slain under Ilium’s walls, but Jove, my sire,
+Mad counsels executing and perverse,415
+Me counterworks in all that I attempt,
+Nor aught remembers how I saved ofttimes
+His son enjoin’d full many a task severe
+By King Eurystheus; to the Gods he wept,
+And me Jove sent in haste to his relief.420
+But had I then foreseen what now I know,
+When through the adamantine gates he pass’d
+To bind the dog of hell, by the deep floods
+Hemm’d in of Styx, he had return’d no more.
+But Thetis wins him now; her will prevails,425
+And mine he hates; for she hath kiss’d his knees
+And grasp’d his beard, and him in prayer implored
+That he would honor her heroic son
+Achilles, city-waster prince renown’d.
+’Tis well—the day shall come when Jove again430
+Shall call me darling, and his blue-eyed maid
+As heretofore;—but thou thy steeds prepare,
+While I, my father’s mansion entering, arm
+For battle. I would learn by trial sure,
+If Hector, Priam’s offspring famed in fight435
+(Ourselves appearing in the walks of war)
+Will greet us gladly. Doubtless at the fleet
+Some Trojan also, shall to dogs resign
+His flesh for food, and to the fowls of heaven.
+
+So counsell’d Pallas, nor the daughter dread440
+Of mighty Saturn, Juno, disapproved,
+But busily and with dispatch prepared
+The trappings of her coursers golden-rein’d.
+Meantime, Minerva progeny of Jove,
+On the adamantine floor of his abode445
+Let fall profuse her variegated robe,
+Labor of her own hands. She first put on
+The corslet of the cloud-assembler God,
+Then arm’d her for the field of wo, complete.
+Mounting the fiery chariot, next she seized450
+Her ponderous spear, huge, irresistible,
+With which Jove’s awful daughter levels ranks
+Of heroes against whom her anger burns.
+Juno with lifted lash urged on the steeds.
+At their approach, spontaneous roar’d the wide-455
+Unfolding gates of heaven; the heavenly gates
+Kept by the watchful Hours, to whom the charge
+Of the Olympian summit appertains,
+And of the boundless ether, back to roll,
+And to replace the cloudy barrier dense.460
+Spurr’d through the portal flew the rapid steeds:
+Which when the Eternal Father from the heights
+Of Ida saw, kindling with instant ire
+To golden-pinion’d Iris thus he spake.
+Haste, Iris, turn them thither whence they came;465
+Me let them not encounter; honor small
+To them, to me, should from that strife accrue.
+Tell them, and the effect shall sure ensue,
+That I will smite their steeds, and they shall halt
+Disabled; break their chariot, dash themselves470
+Headlong, and ten whole years shall not efface
+The wounds by my avenging bolts impress’d.
+So shall my blue-eyed daughter learn to dread
+A father’s anger; but for the offence
+Of Juno, I resent it less; for she475
+Clashes[15] with all my counsels from of old.
+He ended; Iris with a tempest’s speed
+From the Idæan summit soar’d at once
+To the Olympian; at the open gates
+Exterior of the mountain many-valed480
+She stayed them, and her coming thus declared.
+Whither, and for what cause? What rage is this?
+Ye may not aid the Grecians; Jove forbids;
+The son of Saturn threatens, if ye force
+His wrath by perseverance into act,485
+That he will smite your steeds, and they shall halt
+Disabled; break your chariot, dash yourselves
+Headlong, and ten whole years shall not efface
+The wounds by his avenging bolts impress’d.
+So shall his blue-eyed daughter learn to dread490
+A father’s anger; but for the offence
+Of Juno, he resents it less; for she
+Clashes with all his counsels from of old.
+But thou, Minerva, if thou dare indeed
+Lift thy vast spear against the breast of Jove,495
+Incorrigible art and dead to shame.
+So saying, the rapid Iris disappear’d,
+And thus her speech to Pallas Juno turn’d.
+Ah Pallas, progeny of Jove! henceforth
+No longer, in the cause of mortal men,500
+Contend we against Jove. Perish or live
+Grecians or Trojans as he wills; let him
+Dispose the order of his own concerns,
+And judge between them, as of right he may.
+So saying, she turn’d the coursers; them the Hours505
+Released, and to ambrosial mangers bound,
+Then thrust their chariot to the luminous wall.
+They, mingling with the Gods, on golden thrones
+Dejected sat, and Jove from Ida borne
+Reach’d the Olympian heights, seat of the Gods.510
+His steeds the glorious King of Ocean loosed,
+And thrust the chariot, with its veil o’erspread.
+Into its station at the altar’s side.
+Then sat the Thunderer on his throne of gold
+Himself, and the huge mountain shook. Meantime515
+Juno and Pallas, seated both apart,
+Spake not or question’d him. Their mute reserve
+He noticed, conscious of the cause, and said.
+Juno and Pallas, wherefore sit ye sad?
+Not through fatigue by glorious fight incurr’d520
+And slaughter of the Trojans whom ye hate.
+Mark now the difference. Not the Gods combined
+Should have constrain’d _me_ back, till all my force,
+Superior as it is, had fail’d, and all
+My fortitude. But ye, ere ye beheld525
+The wonders of the field, trembling retired.
+And ye did well—Hear what had else befallen.
+My bolts had found you both, and ye had reach’d,
+In your own chariot borne, the Olympian height,
+Seat of the blest Immortals, never more.530
+He ended; Juno and Minerva heard
+Low murmuring deep disgust, and side by side
+Devising sat calamity to Troy.
+Minerva, through displeasure against Jove,
+Nought utter’d, for her bosom boil’d with rage;535
+But Juno check’d not hers, who thus replied.
+What word hath pass’d thy lips, Jove most severe?
+We know thy force resistless; yet our hearts
+Feel not the less when we behold the Greeks
+Exhausting all the sorrows of their lot.540
+If thou command, we doubtless will abstain
+From battle, yet such counsel to the Greeks
+Suggesting still, as may in part effect
+Their safety, lest thy wrath consume them all.
+Then answer, thus, cloud-gatherer Jove return’d.545
+Look forth, imperial Juno, if thou wilt,
+To-morrow at the blush of earliest dawn,
+And thou shalt see Saturn’s almighty son
+The Argive host destroying far and wide.
+For Hector’s fury shall admit no pause550
+Till he have roused Achilles, in that day
+When at the ships, in perilous straits, the hosts
+Shall wage fierce battle for Patroclus slain.
+Such is the voice of fate. But, as for thee—
+Withdraw thou to the confines of the abyss555
+Where Saturn and Iäpetus retired,
+Exclusion sad endure from balmy airs
+And from the light of morn, hell-girt around,
+I will not call thee thence. No. Should thy rage
+Transport thee thither, there thou may’st abide,560
+There sullen nurse thy disregarded spleen
+Obstinate as thou art, and void of shame.
+He ended; to whom Juno nought replied.
+And now the radiant Sun in Ocean sank,
+Drawing night after him o’er all the earth;565
+Night, undesired by Troy, but to the Greeks
+Thrice welcome for its interposing gloom.
+Then Hector on the river’s brink fast by
+The Grecian fleet, where space he found unstrew’d
+With carcases convened the Chiefs of Troy.570
+They, there dismounting, listen’d to the words
+Of Hector Jove-beloved; he grasp’d a spear
+In length eleven cubits, bright its head
+Of brass, and color’d with a ring of gold.
+He lean’d on it, and ardent thus began.575
+Trojans, Dardanians, and allies of Troy!
+I hoped, this evening (every ship consumed,
+And all the Grecians slain) to have return’d
+To wind-swept Ilium. But the shades of night
+Have intervened, and to the night they owe,580
+In chief, their whole fleet’s safety and their own.
+Now, therefore, as the night enjoins, all take
+Needful refreshment. Your high-mettled steeds
+Release, lay food before them, and in haste
+Drive hither from the city fatted sheep585
+And oxen; bring ye from your houses bread,
+Make speedy purchase of heart-cheering wine,
+And gather fuel plenteous; that all night,
+E’en till Aurora, daughter of the morn
+Shall look abroad, we may with many fires590
+Illume the skies; lest even in the night,
+Launching, they mount the billows and escape.
+Beware that they depart not unannoy’d,
+But, as he leaps on board, give each a wound
+With shaft or spear, which he shall nurse at home.595
+So shall the nations fear us, and shall vex
+With ruthless war Troy’s gallant sons no more.
+Next, let the heralds, ministers of Jove,
+Loud notice issue that the boys well-grown,
+And ancients silver-hair’d on the high towers600
+Built by the Gods, keep watch; on every hearth
+In Troy, let those of the inferior sex
+Make sprightly blaze, and place ye there a guard
+Sufficient, lest in absence of the troops
+An ambush enter, and surprise the town.605
+Act thus, ye dauntless Trojans; the advice
+Is wholesome, and shall serve the present need,
+And so much for the night; ye shall be told
+The business of the morn when morn appears.
+It is my prayer to Jove and to all heaven610
+(Not without hope) that I may hence expel
+These dogs, whom Ilium’s unpropitious fates
+Have wafted hither in their sable barks.
+But we will also watch this night, ourselves,
+And, arming with the dawn, will at their ships615
+Give them brisk onset. Then shall it appear
+If Diomede the brave shall me compel
+Back to our walls, or I, his arms blood-stain’d,
+Torn from his breathless body, bear away.
+To-morrow, if he dare but to abide620
+My lance, he shall not want occasion meet
+For show of valor. But much more I judge
+That the next rising sun shall see him slain
+With no few friends around him. Would to heaven!
+I were as sure to ’scape the blight of age625
+And share their honors with the Gods above,
+As comes the morrow fraught with wo to Greece.
+So Hector, whom his host with loud acclaim
+All praised. Then each his sweating steeds released,
+And rein’d them safely at his chariot-side.630
+And now from Troy provision large they brought,
+Oxen, and sheep, with store of wine and bread,
+And fuel much was gather’d. [16]Next the Gods
+With sacrifice they sought, and from the plain
+Upwafted by the winds the smoke aspired635
+Savoury, but unacceptable to those
+Above; such hatred in their hearts they bore
+To Priam, to the people of the brave
+Spear-practised Priam, and to sacred Troy.
+Big with great purposes and proud, they sat,640
+Not disarray’d, but in fair form disposed
+Of even ranks, and watch’d their numerous fires,
+As when around the clear bright moon, the stars
+Shine in full splendor, and the winds are hush’d,
+The groves, the mountain-tops, the headland-heights645
+Stand all apparent, not a vapor streaks
+The boundless blue, but ether open’d wide
+All glitters, and the shepherd’s heart is cheer’d;[17]
+So numerous seem’d those fires the bank between
+Of Xanthus, blazing, and the fleet of Greece,650
+In prospect all of Troy; a thousand fires,
+Each watch’d by fifty warriors seated near.
+The steeds beside the chariots stood, their corn
+Chewing, and waiting till the golden-throned
+Aurora should restore the light of day.655
+
+
+
+
+BOOK IX.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE NINTH BOOK.
+
+By advice of Nestor, Agamemnon sends Ulysses, Phœnix, and Ajax to the
+tent of Achilles with proposals of reconciliation. They execute their
+commission, but without effect. Phœnix remains with Achilles; Ulysses
+and Ajax return.
+
+
+BOOK IX.
+
+
+So watch’d the Trojan host; but thoughts of flight,
+Companions of chill fear, from heaven infused,
+Possess’d the Grecians; every leader’s heart
+Bled, pierced with anguish insupportable.
+As when two adverse winds blowing from Thrace,5
+Boreas and Zephyrus, the fishy Deep
+Vex sudden, all around, the sable flood
+High curl’d, flings forth the salt weed on the shore
+Such tempest rent the mind of every Greek.
+  Forth stalk’d Atrides with heart-riving wo10
+Transfixt; he bade his heralds call by name
+Each Chief to council, but without the sound
+Of proclamation; and that task himself
+Among the foremost sedulous perform’d.
+The sad assembly sat; when weeping fast15
+As some deep[1] fountain pours its rapid stream
+Down from the summit of a lofty rock,
+King Agamemnon in the midst arose,
+And, groaning, the Achaians thus address’d.
+  Friends, counsellors and leaders of the Greeks!20
+In dire perplexity Saturnian Jove
+Involves me, cruel; he assured me erst,
+And solemnly, that I should not return
+Till I had wasted wall-encircled Troy;
+But now (ah fraudulent and foul reverse!)25
+Commands me back inglorious to the shores
+Of distant Argos, with diminish’d troops.
+So stands the purpose of almighty Jove,
+Who many a citadel hath laid in dust,
+And shall hereafter, matchless in his power.30
+Haste therefore. My advice is, that we all
+Fly with our fleet into our native land,
+For wide-built Ilium shall not yet be ours.
+  He ceased, and all sat silent; long the sons
+Of Greece, o’erwhelm’d with sorrow, silent sat,35
+When thus, at last, bold Diomede began.
+  Atrides! foremost of the Chiefs I rise
+To contravert thy purpose ill-conceived,
+And with such freedom as the laws, O King!
+Of consultation and debate allow.40
+Hear patient. Thou hast been thyself the first
+Who e’er reproach’d me in the public ear
+As one effeminate and slow to fight;
+How truly, let both young and old decide.
+The son of wily Saturn hath to thee45
+Given, and refused; he placed thee high in power,
+Gave thee to sway the sceptre o’er us all,
+But courage gave thee not, his noblest gift.[2]
+Art thou in truth persuaded that the Greeks
+Are pusillanimous, as thou hast said?50
+If thy own fears impel thee to depart,
+Go thou, the way is open; numerous ships,
+Thy followers from Mycenæ, line the shore.
+But we, the rest, depart not, till the spoil
+Of Troy reward us. Or if all incline55
+To seek again their native home, fly all;
+Myself and Sthenelus will persevere
+Till Ilium fall, for with the Gods we came.
+  He ended; all the admiring sons of Greece
+With shouts the warlike Diomede extoll’d,60
+When thus equestrian Nestor next began.
+  Tydides, thou art eminently brave
+In fight, and all the princes of thy years
+Excell’st in council. None of all the Greeks
+Shall find occasion just to blame thy speech65
+Or to gainsay; yet thou hast fallen short.
+What wonder? Thou art young; and were myself
+Thy father, thou should’st be my latest born.
+Yet when thy speech is to the Kings of Greece,
+It is well-framed and prudent. Now attend!70
+Myself will speak, who have more years to boast
+Than thou hast seen, and will so closely scan
+The matter, that Atrides, our supreme,
+Himself shall have no cause to censure _me_.
+He is a wretch, insensible and dead75
+To all the charities of social life,
+Whose pleasure is in civil broils alone.[3]
+But Night is urgent, and with Night’s demands
+Let all comply. Prepare we now repast,
+And let the guard be stationed at the trench80
+Without the wall; the youngest shall supply
+That service; next, Atrides, thou begin
+(For thou art here supreme) thy proper task.
+Banquet the elders; it shall not disgrace
+Thy sovereignty, but shall become thee well.85
+Thy tents are fill’d with wine which day by day
+Ships bring from Thrace; accommodation large
+Hast thou, and numerous is thy menial train.
+Thy many guests assembled, thou shalt hear
+Our counsel, and shalt choose the best; great need90
+Have all Achaia’s sons, now, of advice
+Most prudent; for the foe, fast by the fleet
+Hath kindled numerous fires, which who can see
+Unmoved? This night shall save us or destroy.[4]
+  He spake, whom all with full consent approved.95
+Forth rush’d the guard well-arm’d; first went the son
+Of Nestor, Thrasymedes, valiant Chief;
+Then, sons of Mars, Ascalaphus advanced,
+And brave Iälmenus; whom follow’d next
+Deipyrus, Aphareus, Meriones,100
+And Lycomedes, Creon’s son renown’d.
+Seven were the leaders of the guard, and each
+A hundred spearmen headed, young and bold.
+Between the wall and trench their seat they chose,
+There kindled fires, and each his food prepared.105
+  Atrides, then, to his pavilion led
+The thronging Chiefs of Greece, and at his board
+Regaled them; they with readiness and keen
+Dispatch of hunger shared the savory feast,
+And when nor thirst remain’d nor hunger more110
+Unsated, Nestor then, arising first,
+Whose counsels had been ever wisest deem’d,
+Warm for the public interest, thus began.
+  Atrides! glorious sovereign! King of men!
+Thou art my first and last, proem and close,115
+For thou art mighty, and to thee are given
+From Jove the sceptre and the laws in charge,
+For the advancement of the general good.
+Hence, in peculiar, both to speak and hear
+Become thy duty, and the best advice,120
+By whomsoever offer’d, to adopt
+And to perform, for thou art judge alone.
+I will promulge the counsel which to me
+Seems wisest; such, that other Grecian none
+Shall give thee better; neither is it new,125
+But I have ever held it since the day
+When, most illustrious! thou wast pleased to take
+By force the maid Briseïs from the tent
+Of the enraged Achilles; not, in truth,
+By my advice, who did dissuade thee much;130
+But thou, complying with thy princely wrath,
+Hast shamed a Hero whom themselves the Gods
+Delight to honor, and his prize detain’st.
+Yet even now contrive we, although late,
+By lenient gifts liberal, and by speech135
+Conciliatory, to assuage his ire.
+  Then answer’d Agamemnon, King of men.
+Old Chief! there is no falsehood in thy charge;
+I have offended, and confess the wrong.
+The warrior is alone a host, whom Jove140
+Loves as he loves Achilles, for whose sake
+He hath Achaia’s thousands thus subdued.
+But if the impulse of a wayward mind
+Obeying, I have err’d, behold me, now,
+Prepared to soothe him with atonement large145
+Of gifts inestimable, which by name
+I will propound in presence of you all.
+Seven tripods, never sullied yet with fire;
+Of gold ten talents; twenty cauldrons bright;
+Twelve coursers, strong, victorious in the race;150
+No man possessing prizes such as mine
+Which they have won for me, shall feel the want
+Of acquisitions splendid or of gold.
+Seven virtuous female captives will I give
+Expert in arts domestic, Lesbians all,155
+Whom, when himself took Lesbos, I received
+My chosen portion, passing womankind
+In perfect loveliness of face and form.
+These will I give, and will with these resign
+Her whom I took, Briseïs, with an oath160
+Most solemn, that unconscious as she was
+Of my embraces, such I yield her his.
+All these I give him now; and if at length
+The Gods vouchsafe to us to overturn
+Priam’s great city, let him heap his ships165
+With gold and brass, entering and choosing first
+When we shall share the spoil. Let him beside
+Choose twenty from among the maids of Troy,
+Helen except, loveliest of all their sex.
+And if once more, the rich milk-flowing land170
+We reach of Argos, he shall there become
+My son-in-law, and shall enjoy like state
+With him whom I in all abundance rear,
+My only son Orestes. At my home
+I have three daughters; let him thence conduct175
+To Phthia, her whom he shall most approve.
+Chrysothemis shall be his bride, or else
+Laodice; or if she please him more,
+Iphianassa; and from him I ask
+No dower;[5] myself will such a dower bestow180
+As never father on his child before.
+Seven fair well-peopled cities I will give
+Cardamyle and Enope, and rich
+In herbage, Hira; Pheræ stately-built,
+And for her depth of pasturage renown’d185
+Antheia; proud Æpeia’s lofty towers,
+And Pedasus impurpled dark with vines.
+All these are maritime, and on the shore
+They stand of Pylus, by a race possess’d
+Most rich in flocks and herds, who tributes large,190
+And gifts presenting to his sceptred hand,
+Shall hold him high in honor as a God.
+These will I give him if from wrath he cease.
+Let him be overcome. Pluto alone
+Is found implacable and deaf to prayer,195
+Whom therefore of all Gods men hate the most.
+My power is greater, and my years than his
+More numerous, therefore let him yield to me.
+  To him Gerenian Nestor thus replied.
+Atrides! glorious sovereign! King of men!200
+No sordid gifts, or to be view’d with scorn,
+Givest thou the Prince Achilles. But away!
+Send chosen messengers, who shall the son
+Of Peleus, instant, in his tent address.
+Myself will choose them, be it theirs to obey.205
+Let Phœnix lead, Jove loves him. Be the next
+Huge Ajax; and the wise Ulysses third.
+Of heralds, Odius and Eurybates
+Shall them attend. Bring water for our hands;
+Give charge that every tongue abstain from speech210
+Portentous, and propitiate Jove by prayer.
+  He spake, and all were pleased. The heralds pour’d
+Pure water on their hands;[6] attendant youths
+The beakers crown’d, and wine from right to left
+Distributed to all. Libation made,215
+All drank, and in such measure as they chose,
+Then hasted forth from Agamemnon’s tent.
+Gerenian Nestor at their side them oft
+Instructed, each admonishing by looks
+Significant, and motion of his eyes,220
+But most Ulysses, to omit no means
+By which Achilles likeliest might be won.
+Along the margin of the sounding deep
+They pass’d, to Neptune, compasser of earth,
+Preferring vows ardent with numerous prayers,225
+That they might sway with ease the mighty mind
+Of fierce Æacides. And now they reach’d
+The station where his Myrmidons abode.
+Him solacing they found his heart with notes
+Struck from his silver-framed harmonious lyre;230
+Among the spoils he found it when he sack’d
+Eëtion’s city; with that lyre his cares
+He sooth’d, and glorious heroes were his theme.[7]
+Patroclus silent sat, and he alone,
+Before him, on Æacides intent,235
+Expecting still when he should cease to sing.
+The messengers advanced (Ulysses first)
+Into his presence; at the sight, his harp
+Still in his hand, Achilles from his seat
+Started astonish’d; nor with less amaze240
+Patroclus also, seeing them, arose.
+Achilles seized their hands, and thus he spake.[8]
+
+  Hail friends! ye all are welcome. Urgent cause
+Hath doubtless brought you, whom I dearest hold
+(Though angry still) of all Achaia’s host.245
+  So saying, he introduced them, and on seats
+Placed them with purple arras overspread,
+Then thus bespake Patroclus standing nigh.
+  Son of Menætius! bring a beaker more
+Capacious, and replenish it with wine250
+Diluted[9] less; then give to each his cup;
+For dearer friends than these who now arrive
+My roof beneath, or worthier, have I none.
+  He ended, and Patroclus quick obey’d,
+Whom much he loved. Achilles, then, himself255
+Advancing near the fire an ample[10] tray,
+Spread goats’ flesh on it, with the flesh of sheep
+And of a fatted brawn; of each a chine.
+Automedon attending held them fast,
+While with sharp steel Achilles from the bone260
+Sliced thin the meat, then pierced it with the spits.
+Meantime the godlike Menætiades
+Kindled fierce fire, and when the flame declined,
+Raked wide the embers, laid the meat to roast,
+And taking sacred salt from the hearth-side265
+Where it was treasured, shower’d it o’er the feast.
+When all was finish’d, and the board set forth,
+Patroclus furnish’d it around with bread
+In baskets, and Achilles served the guests.
+Beside the tent-wall, opposite, he sat270
+To the divine Ulysses; first he bade
+Patroclus make oblation; he consign’d
+The consecrated morsel to the fire,
+And each, at once, his savoury mess assail’d.
+When neither edge of hunger now they felt275
+Nor thirsted longer, Ajax with a nod
+Made sign to Phœnix, which Ulysses mark’d,
+And charging high his cup, drank to his host.
+  Health to Achilles! hospitable cheer
+And well prepared, we want not at the board280
+Of royal Agamemnon, or at thine,
+For both are nobly spread; but dainties now,
+Or plenteous boards, are little our concern.[11]
+Oh godlike Chief! tremendous ills we sit
+Contemplating with fear, doubtful if life285
+Or death, with the destruction of our fleet,
+Attend us, unless thou put on thy might.
+For lo! the haughty Trojans, with their friends
+Call’d from afar, at the fleet-side encamp,
+Fast by the wall, where they have kindled fires290
+Numerous, and threaten that no force of ours
+Shall check their purposed inroad on the ships.
+Jove grants them favorable signs from heaven,
+Bright lightnings; Hector glares revenge, with rage
+Infuriate, and by Jove assisted, heeds295
+Nor God nor man, but prays the morn to rise
+That he may hew away our vessel-heads,
+Burn all our fleet with fire, and at their sides
+Slay the Achaians struggling in the smoke.
+Horrible are my fears lest these his threats300
+The Gods accomplish, and it be our doom
+To perish here, from Argos far remote.
+Up, therefore! if thou canst, and now at last
+The weary sons of all Achaia save
+From Trojan violence. Regret, but vain,305
+Shall else be thine hereafter, when no cure
+Of such great ill, once suffer’d, can be found.
+Thou therefore, seasonably kind, devise
+Means to preserve from such disast’rous fate
+The Grecians. Ah, my friend! when Peleus thee310
+From Phthia sent to Agamemnon’s aid,
+On that same day he gave thee thus in charge.
+“Juno, my son, and Pallas, if they please,
+Can make thee valiant; but thy own big heart
+Thyself restrain. Sweet manners win respect.315
+Cease from pernicious strife, and young and old
+Throughout the host shall honor thee the more.”
+Such was thy father’s charge, which thou, it seems,
+Remember’st not. Yet even now thy wrath
+Renounce; be reconciled; for princely gifts320
+Atrides gives thee if thy wrath subside.
+Hear, if thou wilt, and I will tell thee all,
+How vast the gifts which Agamemnon made
+By promise thine, this night within his tent.
+Seven tripods never sullied yet with fire;325
+Of gold ten talents; twenty cauldrons bright;
+Twelve steeds strong-limb’d, victorious in the race;
+No man possessing prizes such as those
+Which they have won for him, shall feel the want
+Of acquisitions splendid, or of gold.330
+Seven virtuous female captives he will give,
+Expert in arts domestic, Lesbians all,
+Whom when thou conquer’dst Lesbos, he received
+His chosen portion, passing woman-kind
+In perfect loveliness of face and form.335
+These will he give, and will with these resign
+Her whom he took, Briseïs, with an oath
+Most solemn, that unconscious as she was
+Of his embraces, such he yields her back.
+All these he gives thee now! and if at length340
+The Gods vouchsafe to us to overturn
+Priam’s great city, thou shalt heap thy ships
+With gold and brass, entering and choosing first,
+When we shall share the spoil; and shalt beside
+Choose twenty from among the maids of Troy,345
+Helen except, loveliest of all their sex.
+And if once more the rich milk-flowing land
+We reach of Argos, thou shalt there become
+His son-in-law, and shalt enjoy like state
+With him, whom he in all abundance rears,350
+His only son Orestes. In his house
+He hath three daughters; thou may’st home conduct
+To Phthia, her whom thou shalt most approve.
+Chrysothemis shall be thy bride; or else
+Laodice; or if she please thee more355
+Iphianassa; and from thee he asks
+No dower; himself will such a dower bestow
+As never father on his child before.
+Seven fair well-peopled cities will he give;
+Cardamyle and Enope; and rich360
+In herbage, Hira; Pheræ stately-built,
+And for her depth of pasturage renown’d,
+Antheia; proud Æpeia’s lofty towers,
+And Pedasus impurpled dark with vines.
+All these are maritime, and on the shore365
+They stand of Pylus, by a race possess’d
+Most rich in flocks and herds, who tribute large
+And gifts presenting to thy sceptred hand,
+Shall hold thee high in honor as a God.
+These will he give thee, if thy wrath subside.370
+  But should’st thou rather in thine heart the more
+Both Agamemnon and his gifts detest,
+Yet oh compassionate the afflicted host
+Prepared to adore thee. Thou shalt win renown
+Among the Grecians that shall never die.375
+Now strike at Hector. He is here;—himself
+Provokes thee forth; madness is in his heart,
+And in his rage he glories that our ships
+Have hither brought no Grecian brave as he.
+  Then thus Achilles matchless in the race.380
+Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!
+I must with plainness speak my fixt resolve
+Unalterable; lest I hear from each
+The same long murmur’d melancholy tale.
+For I abhor the man, not more the gates385
+Of hell itself, whose words belie his heart.
+So shall not mine. My judgment undisguised
+Is this; that neither Agamemnon me
+Nor all the Greeks shall move; for ceaseless toil
+Wins here no thanks; one recompense awaits390
+The sedentary and the most alert,
+The brave and base in equal honor stand,
+And drones and heroes fall unwept alike.
+I after all my labors, who exposed
+My life continual in the field, have earn’d395
+No very sumptuous prize. As the poor bird
+Gives to her unfledged brood a morsel gain’d
+After long search, though wanting it herself,
+So I have worn out many sleepless nights,
+And waded deep through many a bloody day400
+In battle for their wives.[12] I have destroy’d
+Twelve cities with my fleet, and twelve, save one,
+On foot contending in the fields of Troy.
+From all these cities, precious spoils I took
+Abundant, and to Agamemnon’s hand405
+Gave all the treasure. He within his ships
+Abode the while, and having all received,
+Little distributed, and much retained;
+He gave, however, to the Kings and Chiefs
+A portion, and they keep it. Me alone410
+Of all the Grecian host he hath despoil’d;
+My bride, my soul’s delight is in his hands,
+And let him, couch’d with her, enjoy his fill
+Of dalliance. What sufficient cause, what need
+Have the Achaians to contend with Troy?415
+Why hath Atrides gather’d such a host,
+And led them hither? Was’t not for the sake
+Of beauteous Helen? And of all mankind
+Can none be found who love their proper wives
+But the Atridæ? There is no good man420
+Who loves not, guards not, and with care provides
+For his own wife, and, though in battle won,
+I loved the fair Briseïs at my heart.
+But having dispossess’d me of my prize
+So foully, let him not essay me now,425
+For I am warn’d, and he shall not prevail.
+With thee and with thy peers let him advise,
+Ulysses! how the fleet may likeliest ’scape
+Yon hostile fires; full many an arduous task
+He hath accomplished without aid of mine;430
+So hath he now this rampart and the trench
+Which he hath digg’d around it, and with stakes
+Planted contiguous—puny barriers all
+To hero-slaughtering Hector’s force opposed.
+While I the battle waged, present myself435
+Among the Achaians, Hector never fought
+Far from his walls, but to the Scæan gate
+Advancing and the beech-tree, there remain’d.
+Once, on that spot he met me, and my arm
+Escaped with difficulty even there.440
+But, since I feel myself not now inclined
+To fight with noble Hector, yielding first
+To Jove due worship, and to all the Gods,
+To-morrow will I launch, and give my ships
+Their lading. Look thou forth at early dawn,445
+And, if such spectacle delight thee aught,
+Thou shalt behold me cleaving with my prows
+The waves of Hellespont, and all my crews
+Of lusty rowers active in their task.
+So shall I reach (if Ocean’s mighty God450
+Prosper my passage) Phthia the deep-soil’d
+On the third day. I have possessions there,
+Which hither roaming in an evil hour
+I left abundant. I shall also hence
+Convey much treasure, gold and burnish’d brass,455
+And glittering steel, and women passing fair
+My portion of the spoils. But he, your King,
+The prize he gave, himself resumed,
+And taunted at me. Tell him my reply,
+And tell it him aloud, that other Greeks460
+May indignation feel like me, if arm’d
+Always in impudence, he seek to wrong
+Them also. Let him not henceforth presume,
+Canine and hard in aspect though he be,
+To look me in the face. I will not share465
+His counsels, neither will I aid his works.
+Let it suffice him, that he wrong’d me once,
+Deceived me once, henceforth his glozing arts
+Are lost on me. But let him rot in peace
+Crazed as he is, and by the stroke of Jove470
+Infatuate. I detest his gifts, and him
+So honor as the thing which most I scorn.
+And would he give me twenty times the worth
+Of this his offer, all the treasured heaps
+Which he possesses, or shall yet possess,475
+All that Orchomenos within her walls,
+And all that opulent Egyptian Thebes
+Receives, the city with a hundred gates,
+Whence twenty thousand chariots rush to war,
+And would he give me riches as the sands,480
+And as the dust of earth, no gifts from him
+Should soothe me, till my soul were first avenged
+For all the offensive license of his tongue.
+I will not wed the daughter of your Chief,
+Of Agamemnon. Could she vie in charms485
+With golden Venus, had she all the skill
+Of blue-eyed Pallas, even so endow’d
+She were no bride for me. No. He may choose
+From the Achaians some superior Prince,
+One more her equal. Peleus, if the Gods490
+Preserve me, and I safe arrive at home,
+Himself, ere long, shall mate me with a bride.
+In Hellas and in Phthia may be found
+Fair damsels many, daughters of the Chiefs
+Who guard our cities; I may choose of them,495
+And make the loveliest of them all my own.
+There, in my country, it hath ever been
+My dearest purpose, wedded to a wife
+Of rank convenient, to enjoy in peace
+Such wealth as ancient Peleus hath acquired.500
+For life, in my account, surpasses far
+In value all the treasures which report
+Ascribed to populous Ilium, ere the Greeks
+Arrived, and while the city yet had peace;
+Those also which Apollo’s marble shrine505
+In rocky Pytho boasts. Fat flocks and beeves
+May be by force obtain’d, tripods and steeds
+Are bought or won, but if the breath of man
+Once overpass its bounds, no force arrests
+Or may constrain the unbodied spirit back.510
+Me, as my silver-footed mother speaks
+Thetis, a twofold consummation waits.
+If still with battle I encompass Troy,
+I win immortal glory, but all hope
+Renounce of my return. If I return515
+To my beloved country, I renounce
+The illustrious meed of glory, but obtain
+Secure and long immunity from death.
+And truly I would recommend to all
+To voyage homeward, for the fall as yet520
+Ye shall not see of Ilium’s lofty towers,
+For that the Thunderer with uplifted arm
+Protects her, and her courage hath revived.
+Bear ye mine answer back, as is the part
+Of good ambassadors, that they may frame525
+Some likelier plan, by which both fleet and host
+May be preserved; for, my resentment still
+Burning, this project is but premature.
+Let Phœnix stay with us, and sleep this night
+Within my tent, that, if he so incline,530
+He may to-morrow in my fleet embark,
+And hence attend me; but I leave him free.
+  He ended; they astonish’d at his tone
+(For vehement he spake) sat silent all,
+Till Phœnix, aged warrior, at the last535
+Gush’d into tears (for dread his heart o’erwhelm’d
+Lest the whole fleet should perish) and replied.
+  If thou indeed have purposed to return,
+Noble Achilles! and such wrath retain’st
+That thou art altogether fixt to leave540
+The fleet a prey to desolating fires,
+How then, my son! shall I at Troy abide
+Forlorn of thee? When Peleus, hoary Chief,
+Sent thee to Agamemnon, yet a child,[13]
+Unpractised in destructive fight, nor less545
+Of councils ignorant, the schools in which
+Great minds are form’d, he bade me to the war
+Attend thee forth, that I might teach thee all,
+Both elocution and address in arms.
+Me therefore shalt thou not with my consent550
+Leave here, my son! no, not would Jove himself
+Promise me, reaping smooth this silver beard,
+To make me downy-cheek’d as in my youth;
+Such as when erst from Hellas beauty-famed
+I fled, escaping from my father’s wrath555
+Amyntor, son of Ormenus, who loved
+A beauteous concubine, and for her sake
+Despised his wife and persecuted me.
+My mother suppliant at my knees, with prayer
+Perpetual importuned me to embrace560
+The damsel first, that she might loathe my sire.
+I did so; and my father soon possess’d
+With hot suspicion of the fact, let loose
+A storm of imprecation, in his rage
+Invoking all the Furies to forbid565
+That ever son of mine should press his knees.
+Tartarian Jove[14] and dread Persephone
+Fulfill’d his curses; with my pointed spear
+I would have pierced his heart, but that my wrath
+Some Deity assuaged, suggesting oft570
+What shame and obloquy I should incur,
+Known as a parricide through all the land.
+At length, so treated, I resolved to dwell
+No longer in his house. My friends, indeed,
+And all my kindred compass’d me around575
+With much entreaty, wooing me to stay;
+Oxen and sheep they slaughter’d, many a plump
+Well-fatted brawn extended in the flames,
+And drank the old man’s vessels to the lees.
+Nine nights continual at my side they slept,580
+While others watch’d by turns, nor were the fires
+Extinguish’d ever, one, beneath the porch
+Of the barr’d hall, and one that from within
+The vestibule illumed my chamber door.
+But when the tenth dark night at length arrived,585
+Sudden the chamber doors bursting I flew
+That moment forth, and unperceived alike
+By guards and menial woman, leap’d the wall.
+Through spacious Hellas flying thence afar,
+I came at length to Phthia the deep-soil’d,590
+Mother of flocks, and to the royal house
+Of Peleus; Peleus with a willing heart
+Receiving, loved me as a father loves
+His only son, the son of his old age,
+Inheritor of all his large demesnes.595
+He made me rich; placed under my control
+A populous realm, and on the skirts I dwelt
+Of Phthia, ruling the Dolopian race.
+Thee from my soul, thou semblance of the Gods,
+I loved, and all illustrious as thou art,600
+Achilles! such I made thee. For with me,
+Me only, would’st thou forth to feast abroad,
+Nor would’st thou taste thy food at home, till first
+I placed thee on my knees, with my own hand
+Thy viands carved and fed thee, and the wine605
+Held to thy lips; and many a time, in fits
+Of infant frowardness, the purple juice
+Rejecting thou hast deluged all my vest,
+And fill’d my bosom. Oh, I have endured
+Much, and have also much perform’d for thee,610
+Thus purposing, that since the Gods vouchsaf’d
+No son to me, thyself shouldst be my son,
+Godlike Achilles! who shouldst screen perchance
+From a foul fate my else unshelter’d age.
+Achilles! bid thy mighty spirit down.615
+Thou shouldst not be thus merciless; the Gods,
+Although more honorable, and in power
+And virtue thy superiors, are themselves
+Yet placable; and if a mortal man
+Offend them by transgression of their laws,620
+Libation, incense, sacrifice, and prayer,
+In meekness offer’d turn their wrath away.
+Prayers are Jove’s daughters,[15] wrinkled,[16] lame, slant-eyed,
+Which though far distant, yet with constant pace
+Follow Offence. Offence, robust of limb,625
+And treading firm the ground, outstrips them all,
+And over all the earth before them runs
+Hurtful to man. They, following, heal the hurt.
+Received respectfully when they approach,
+They help us, and our prayers hear in return.630
+But if we slight, and with obdurate heart
+Resist them, to Saturnian Jove they cry
+Against us, supplicating that Offence
+May cleave to us for vengeance of the wrong.
+Thou, therefore, O Achilles! honor yield635
+To Jove’s own daughters, vanquished, as the brave
+Have ofttimes been, by honor paid to thee.
+For came not Agamemnon as he comes
+With gifts in hand, and promises of more
+Hereafter; burn’d his anger still the same,640
+I would not move thee to renounce thy own,
+And to assist us, howsoe’er distress’d.
+But now, not only are his present gifts
+Most liberal, and his promises of more
+Such also, but these Princes he hath sent645
+Charged with entreaties, thine especial friends,
+And chosen for that cause, from all the host.
+Slight not their embassy, nor put to shame
+Their intercession. We confess that once
+Thy wrath was unreprovable and just.650
+Thus we have heard the heroes of old times
+Applauded oft, whose anger, though intense,
+Yet left them open to the gentle sway
+Of reason and conciliatory gifts.
+I recollect an ancient history,655
+Which, since all here are friends, I will relate.
+The brave Ætolians and Curetes met
+Beneath the walls of Calydon, and fought
+With mutual slaughter; the Ætolian powers
+In the defence of Calydon the fair,660
+And the Curetes bent to lay it waste:
+That strife Diana of the golden throne
+Kindled between them, with resentment fired
+That Oeneus had not in some fertile spot
+The first fruits of his harvest set apart665
+To her; with hecatombs he entertained
+All the Divinities of heaven beside,
+And her alone, daughter of Jove supreme,
+Or through forgetfulness, or some neglect,
+Served not; omission careless and profane!670
+She, progeny of Jove, Goddess shaft-arm’d,
+A savage boar bright-tusk’d in anger sent,
+Which haunting Oeneus’ fields much havoc made.
+Trees numerous on the earth in heaps he cast
+Uprooting them, with all their blossoms on.675
+But Meleager, Oeneus’ son, at length
+Slew him, the hunters gathering and the hounds
+Of numerous cities; for a boar so vast
+Might not be vanquish’d by the power of few,
+And many to their funeral piles he sent.680
+Then raised Diana clamorous dispute,
+And contest hot between them, all alike,
+Curetes and Ætolians fierce in arms
+The boar’s head claiming, and his bristly hide.
+So long as warlike Meleager fought,685
+Ætolia prosper’d, nor with all their powers
+Could the Curetes stand before the walls.
+But when resentment once had fired the heart
+Of Meleager, which hath tumult oft
+Excited in the breasts of wisest men,690
+(For his own mother had his wrath provoked
+Althæa) thenceforth with his wedded wife
+He dwelt, fair Cleopatra, close retired.
+She was Marpessa’s daughter, whom she bore
+To Idas, bravest warrior in his day695
+Of all on earth. He fear’d not ’gainst the King
+Himself Apollo, for the lovely nymph
+Marpessa’s sake, his spouse, to bend his bow.
+Her, therefore, Idas and Marpessa named
+Thenceforth Alcyone, because the fate700
+Of sad Alcyone Marpessa shared,
+And wept like her, by Phœbus forced away.
+Thus Meleager, tortured with the pangs
+Of wrath indulged, with Cleopatra dwelt,
+Vex’d that his mother cursed him; for, with grief705
+Frantic, his mother importuned the Gods
+To avenge her slaughter’d brothers[17] on his head.
+Oft would she smite the earth, while on her knees
+Seated, she fill’d her bosom with her tears,
+And call’d on Pluto and dread Proserpine710
+To slay her son; nor vain was that request,
+But by implacable Erynnis heard
+Roaming the shades of Erebus. Ere long
+The tumult and the deafening din of war
+Roar’d at the gates, and all the batter’d towers715
+Resounded. Then the elders of the town
+Dispatch’d the high-priests of the Gods to plead
+With Meleager for his instant aid,
+With strong assurances of rich reward.
+Where Calydon afforded fattest soil720
+They bade him choose to his own use a farm
+Of fifty measured acres, vineyard half,
+And half of land commodious for the plow.
+Him Oeneus also, warrior grey with age,
+Ascending to his chamber, and his doors725
+Smiting importunate, with earnest prayers
+Assay’d to soften, kneeling to his son.
+Nor less his sisters woo’d him to relent,
+Nor less his mother; but in vain; he grew
+Still more obdurate. His companions last,730
+The most esteem’d and dearest of his friends,
+The same suit urged, yet he persisted still
+Relentless, nor could even they prevail.
+But when the battle shook his chamber-doors
+And the Curetes climbing the high towers735
+Had fired the spacious city, then with tears
+The beauteous Cleopatra, and with prayers
+Assail’d him; in his view she set the woes
+Numberless of a city storm’d—the men
+Slaughter’d, the city burnt to dust, the chaste740
+Matrons with all their children dragg’d away.
+That dread recital roused him, and at length
+Issuing, he put his radiant armor on.
+Thus Meleager, gratifying first
+His own resentment from a fatal day745
+Saved the Ætolians, who the promised gift
+Refused him, and his toils found no reward.
+But thou, my son, be wiser; follow thou
+No demon who would tempt thee to a course
+Like his; occasion more propitious far750
+Smiles on thee now, than if the fleet were fired.
+Come, while by gifts invited, and receive
+From all the host, the honors of a God;
+For shouldst thou, by no gifts induced, at last
+Enter the bloody field, although thou chase755
+The Trojans hence, yet less shall be thy praise.
+  Then thus Achilles, matchless in the race.
+Phœnix, my guide, wise, noble and revered!
+I covet no such glory! the renown
+Ordain’d by Jove for me, is to resist760
+All importunity to quit my ships
+While I have power to move, or breath to draw.
+Hear now, and mark me well. Cease thou from tears.
+Confound me not, pleading with sighs and sobs
+In Agamemnon’s cause; O love not him,765
+Lest I renounce thee, who am now thy friend.
+Assist me rather, as thy duty bids,
+Him to afflict, who hath afflicted me,
+So shalt thou share my glory and my power.
+These shall report as they have heard, but here770
+Rest thou this night, and with the rising morn
+We will decide, to stay or to depart.
+  He ceased, and silent, by a nod enjoin’d
+Patroclus to prepare an easy couch
+For Phœnix, anxious to dismiss the rest775
+Incontinent; when Ajax, godlike son
+Of Telamon, arising, thus began.
+  Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d:
+Depart we now; for I perceive that end
+Or fruit of all our reasonings shall be none.780
+It is expedient also that we bear
+Our answer back (unwelcome as it is)
+With all dispatch, for the assembled Greeks
+Expect us. Brave Achilles shuts a fire
+Within his breast; the kindness of his friends,785
+And the respect peculiar by ourselves
+Shown to him, on his heart work no effect.
+Inexorable man! others accept
+Even for a brother slain, or for a son
+Due compensation;[18] the delinquent dwells790
+Secure at home, and the receiver, soothed
+And pacified, represses his revenge.
+But thou, resentful of the loss of one,
+One virgin (such obduracy of heart
+The Gods have given thee) can’st not be appeased795
+Yet we assign thee seven in her stead,
+The most distinguish’d of their sex, and add
+Large gifts beside. Ah then, at last relent!
+Respect thy roof; we are thy guests; we come
+Chosen from the multitude of all the Greeks,800
+Beyond them all ambitious of thy love.
+  To whom Achilles, swiftest of the swift.
+My noble friend, offspring of Telamon!
+Thou seem’st sincere, and I believe thee such.
+But at the very mention of the name805
+Of Atreus’ son, who shamed me in the sight
+Of all Achaia’s host, bearing me down
+As I had been some vagrant at his door,
+My bosom boils. Return ye and report
+Your answer. I no thought will entertain810
+Of crimson war, till the illustrious son
+Of warlike Priam, Hector, blood-embrued,
+Shall in their tents the Myrmidons assail
+Themselves, and fire my fleet. At my own ship,
+And at my own pavilion it may chance815
+That even Hector’s violence shall pause.[19]
+  He ended; they from massy goblets each
+Libation pour’d, and to the fleet their course
+Resumed direct, Ulysses at their head.
+Patroclus then his fellow-warriors bade,820
+And the attendant women spread a couch
+For Phœnix; they the couch, obedient, spread
+With fleeces, with rich arras, and with flax
+Of subtlest woof. There hoary Phœnix lay
+In expectation of the sacred dawn.825
+Meantime Achilles in the interior tent,
+With beauteous Diomeda by himself
+From Lesbos brought, daughter of Phorbas, lay.
+Patroclus opposite reposed, with whom
+Slept charming Iphis; her, when he had won830
+The lofty towers of Scyros, the divine
+Achilles took, and on his friend bestow’d.
+  But when those Chiefs at Agamemnon’s tent
+Arrived, the Greeks on every side arose
+With golden cups welcoming their return.835
+All question’d them, but Agamemnon first.
+  Oh worthy of Achaia’s highest praise,
+And her chief ornament, Ulysses, speak!
+Will he defend the fleet? or his big heart
+Indulging wrathful, doth he still refuse?840
+  To whom renown’d Ulysses thus replied.
+Atrides, Agamemnon, King of men!
+He his resentment quenches not, nor will,
+But burns with wrath the more, thee and thy gifts
+Rejecting both. He bids thee with the Greeks845
+Consult by what expedient thou may’st save
+The fleet and people, threatening that himself
+Will at the peep of day launch all his barks,
+And counselling, beside, the general host
+To voyage homeward, for that end as yet850
+Of Ilium wall’d to heaven, ye shall not find,
+Since Jove the Thunderer with uplifted arm
+Protects her, and her courage hath revived.
+Thus speaks the Chief, and Ajax is prepared,
+With the attendant heralds to report855
+As I have said. But Phœnix in the tent
+Sleeps of Achilles, who his stay desired,
+That on the morrow, if he so incline,
+The hoary warrior may attend him hence
+Home to his country, but he leaves him free.860
+  He ended. They astonish’d at his tone
+(For vehement he spake) sat silent all.
+Long silent sat the afflicted sons of Greece,
+When thus the mighty Diomede began.
+  Atrides, Agamemnon, King of men!865
+Thy supplications to the valiant son
+Of Peleus, and the offer of thy gifts
+Innumerous, had been better far withheld.
+He is at all times haughty, and thy suit
+Hath but increased his haughtiness of heart870
+Past bounds: but let him stay or let him go
+As he shall choose. He will resume the fight
+When his own mind shall prompt him, and the Gods
+Shall urge him forth. Now follow my advice.
+Ye have refresh’d your hearts with food and wine875
+Which are the strength of man; take now repose.
+And when the rosy-finger’d morning fair
+Shall shine again, set forth without delay
+The battle, horse and foot, before the fleet,
+And where the foremost fight, fight also thou.880
+
+  He ended; all the Kings applauded warm
+His counsel, and the dauntless tone admired
+Of Diomede. Then, due libation made,
+Each sought his tent, and took the gift of sleep.
+
+
+There is much in this book which is worthy of close attention. The
+consummate genius, the varied and versatile power, the eloquence,
+truth, and nature displayed in it, will always be admired. Perhaps
+there is no portion of the poem more remarkable for these
+attributes.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK X.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TENTH BOOK.
+
+Diomede and Ulysses enter the Trojan host by night, and slay Rhesus.
+
+
+BOOK X.
+
+
+All night the leaders of the host of Greece
+Lay sunk in soft repose, all, save the Chief,[1]
+The son of Atreus; him from thought to thought
+Roving solicitous, no sleep relieved.
+As when the spouse of beauteous Juno, darts5
+His frequent fires, designing heavy rain
+Immense, or hail-storm, or field-whitening snow,
+Or else wide-throated war calamitous,
+So frequent were the groans by Atreus’ son
+Heaved from his inmost heart, trembling with dread.10
+For cast he but his eye toward the plain
+Of Ilium, there, astonish’d he beheld
+The city fronted with bright fires, and heard
+Pipes, and recorders, and the hum of war;
+But when again the Grecian fleet he view’d,15
+And thought on his own people, then his hair
+Uprooted elevating to the Gods,
+He from his generous bosom groan’d again.
+At length he thus resolved; of all the Greeks
+To seek Neleian Nestor first, with whom20
+He might, perchance, some plan for the defence
+Of the afflicted Danaï devise.
+Rising, he wrapp’d his tunic to his breast,
+And to his royal feet unsullied bound
+His sandals; o’er his shoulders, next, he threw25
+Of amplest size a lion’s tawny skin
+That swept his footsteps, dappled o’er with blood,
+Then took his spear. Meantime, not less appall’d
+Was Menelaus, on whose eyelids sleep
+Sat not, lest the Achaians for his sake30
+O’er many waters borne, and now intent
+On glorious deeds, should perish all at Troy.
+With a pard’s spotted hide his shoulders broad
+He mantled over; to his head he raised
+His brazen helmet, and with vigorous hand35
+Grasping his spear, forth issued to arouse
+His brother, mighty sovereign of the host,
+And by the Grecians like a God revered.
+He found him at his galley’s stern, his arms
+Assuming radiant; welcome he arrived40
+To Agamemnon, whom he thus address’d.
+  Why arm’st thou, brother? Wouldst thou urge abroad
+Some trusty spy into the Trojan camp?[2]
+I fear lest none so hardy shall be found
+As to adventure, in the dead still night,45
+So far, alone; valiant indeed were he!
+  To whom great Agamemnon thus replied.
+Heaven-favor’d Menelaus! We have need,
+Thou and myself, of some device well-framed,
+Which both the Grecians and the fleet of Greece50
+May rescue, for the mind of Jove hath changed,
+And Hector’s prayers alone now reach his ear.
+I never saw, nor by report have learn’d
+From any man, that ever single chief
+Such awful wonders in one day perform’d55
+As he with ease against the Greeks, although
+Nor from a Goddess sprung nor from a God.
+Deeds he hath done, which, as I think, the Greeks
+Shall deep and long lament, such numerous ills
+Achaia’s host hath at his hands sustain’d.60
+But haste, begone, and at their several ships
+Call Ajax and Idomeneus; I go
+To exhort the noble Nestor to arise,
+That he may visit, if he so incline,
+The chosen band who watch, and his advice65
+Give them; for him most prompt they will obey,
+Whose son, together with Meriones,
+Friend of Idomeneus, controls them all,
+Entrusted by ourselves with that command.
+  Him answer’d Menelaus bold in arms.70
+Explain thy purpose. Wouldst thou that I wait
+Thy coming, there, or thy commands to both
+Given, that I incontinent return?
+  To whom the Sovereign of the host replied.
+There stay; lest striking into different paths75
+(For many passes intersect the camp)
+We miss each other; summon them aloud
+Where thou shalt come; enjoin them to arise;
+Call each by his hereditary name,
+Honoring all. Beware of manners proud,80
+For we ourselves must labor, at our birth
+By Jove ordain’d to suffering and to toil.
+  So saying, he his brother thence dismiss’d
+Instructed duly, and himself, his steps
+Turned to the tent of Nestor. Him he found85
+Amid his sable galleys in his tent
+Reposing soft, his armor at his side,
+Shield, spears, bright helmet, and the broider’d belt
+Which, when the Senior arm’d led forth his host
+To fight, he wore; for he complied not yet90
+With the encroachments of enfeebling age.
+He raised his head, and on his elbow propp’d,
+Questioning Agamemnon, thus began.
+  But who art thou, who thus alone, the camp
+Roamest, amid the darkness of the night,95
+While other mortals sleep? Comest thou abroad
+Seeking some friend or soldier of the guard?
+Speak—come not nearer mute. What is thy wish?
+  To whom the son of Atreus, King of men.
+Oh Nestor, glory of the Grecian name,100
+Offspring of Neleus! thou in me shalt know
+The son of Atreus, Agamemnon, doom’d
+By Jove to toil, while life shall yet inform
+These limbs, or I shall draw the vital air.
+I wander thus, because that on my lids105
+Sweet sleep sits not, but war and the concerns
+Of the Achaians occupy my soul.
+Terrible are the fears which I endure
+For these my people; such as supersede
+All thought; my bosom can no longer hold110
+My throbbing heart, and tremors shake my limbs.
+But if thy mind, more capable, project
+Aught that may profit us (for thee it seems
+Sleep also shuns) arise, and let us both
+Visit the watch, lest, haply, overtoil’d115
+They yield to sleep, forgetful of their charge.
+The foe is posted near, and may intend
+(None knows his purpose) an assault by night.
+  To him Gerenian Nestor thus replied.
+Illustrious Agamemnon, King of men!120
+Deep-planning Jove the imaginations proud
+Of Hector will not ratify, nor all
+His sanguine hopes effectuate; in his turn
+He also (fierce Achilles once appeased)
+Shall trouble feel, and haply, more than we.125
+But with all readiness I will arise
+And follow thee, that we may also rouse
+Yet others; Diomede the spear-renown’d,
+Ulysses, the swift Ajax, and the son
+Of Phyleus, valiant Meges. It were well130
+Were others also visited and call’d,
+The godlike Ajax, and Idomeneus,
+Whose ships are at the camp’s extremest bounds.
+But though I love thy brother and revere,
+And though I grieve e’en thee, yet speak I must,135
+And plainly censure him, that thus he sleeps
+And leaves to thee the labor, who himself
+Should range the host, soliciting the Chiefs
+Of every band, as utmost need requires.
+  Him answer’d Agamemnon, King of men.140
+Old warrior, times there are, when I could wish
+Myself thy censure of him, for in act
+He is not seldom tardy and remiss.
+Yet is not sluggish indolence the cause,
+No, nor stupidity, but he observes145
+Me much, expecting till I lead the way.
+But he was foremost now, far more alert
+This night than I, and I have sent him forth
+Already, those to call whom thou hast named.
+But let us hence, for at the guard I trust150
+To find them, since I gave them so in charge.[3]
+  To whom the brave Gerenian Chief replied.
+Him none will censure, or his will dispute,
+Whom he shall waken and exhort to rise.
+  So saying, he bound his corselet to his breast,155
+His sandals fair to his unsullied feet,
+And fastening by its clasps his purple cloak
+Around him, double and of shaggy pile,
+Seized, next, his sturdy spear headed with brass,
+And issued first into the Grecian fleet.160
+There, Nestor, brave Gerenian, with a voice
+Sonorous roused the godlike counsellor
+From sleep, Ulysses; the alarm came o’er
+His startled ear, forth from his tent he sprang
+Sudden, and of their coming, quick, inquired.165
+  Why roam ye thus the camp and fleet alone
+In darkness? by what urgent need constrain’d?
+  To whom the hoary Pylian thus replied.
+Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!
+Resent it not, for dread is our distress.170
+Come, therefore, and assist us to convene
+Yet others, qualified to judge if war
+Be most expedient, or immediate flight.
+  He ended, and regaining, quick, his tent,
+Ulysses slung his shield, then coming forth175
+Join’d them. The son of Tydeus first they sought.
+Him sleeping arm’d before his tent they found,
+Encompass’d by his friends also asleep;
+His head each rested on his shield, and each
+Had planted on its nether point[4] erect180
+His spear beside him; bright their polish’d heads,
+As Jove’s own lightning glittered from afar.
+Himself, the Hero, slept. A wild bull’s hide
+Was spread beneath him, and on arras tinged
+With splendid purple lay his head reclined.185
+Nestor, beside him standing, with his heel
+Shook him, and, urgent, thus the Chief reproved.
+  Awake, Tydides! wherefore givest the night
+Entire to balmy slumber? Hast not heard
+How on the rising ground beside the fleet190
+The Trojans sit, small interval between?
+  He ceased; then up sprang Diomede alarm’d
+Instant, and in wing’d accents thus replied.
+  Old wakeful Chief! thy toils are never done.
+Are there not younger of the sons of Greece,195
+Who ranging in all parts the camp, might call
+The Kings to council? But no curb controls
+Or can abate activity like thine.
+  To whom Gerenian Nestor in return.
+My friend! thou hast well spoken. I have sons,200
+And they are well deserving; I have here
+A numerous people also, one of whom
+Might have sufficed to call the Kings of Greece.
+But such occasion presses now the host
+As hath not oft occurr’d; the overthrow205
+Complete, or full deliverance of us all,
+In balance hangs, poised on a razor’s edge.
+But haste, and if thy pity of my toils
+Be such, since thou art younger, call, thyself,
+Ajax the swift, and Meges to the guard.210
+  Then Diomede a lion’s tawny skin
+Around him wrapp’d, dependent to his heels,
+And, spear in hand, set forth. The Hero call’d
+Those two, and led them whither Nestor bade.
+  They, at the guard arrived, not sleeping found215
+The captains of the guard, but sitting all
+In vigilant posture with their arms prepared.
+As dogs that, careful, watch the fold by night,
+Hearing some wild beast in the woods,[5] which hounds
+And hunters with tumultuous clamor drive220
+Down from the mountain-top, all sleep forego;
+So, sat not on their eyelids gentle sleep
+That dreadful night, but constant to the plain
+At every sound of Trojan feet they turn’d.
+The old Chief joyful at the sight, in terms225
+Of kind encouragement them thus address’d.
+  So watch, my children! and beware that sleep
+Invade none here, lest all become a prey.
+  So saying, he traversed with quick pace the trench
+By every Chief whom they had thither call’d230
+Attended, with whom Nestor’s noble son
+Went, and Meriones, invited both
+To join their consultation. From the foss
+Emerging, in a vacant space they sat,
+Unstrew’d with bodies of the slain, the spot,235
+Whence furious Hector, after slaughter made
+Of numerous Greeks, night falling, had return’d.
+There seated, mutual converse close they held,
+And Nestor, brave Gerenian, thus began.
+
+  Oh friends! hath no Achaian here such trust240
+In his own prowess, as to venture forth
+Among yon haughty Trojans? He, perchance,
+Might on the borders of their host surprise
+Some wandering adversary, or might learn
+Their consultations, whether they propose245
+Here to abide in prospect of the fleet,
+Or, satiate with success against the Greeks
+So signal, meditate retreat to Troy.
+These tidings gain’d, should he at last return
+Secure, his recompense will be renown250
+Extensive as the heavens, and fair reward.
+From every leader of the fleet, his gift
+Shall be a sable[6] ewe, and sucking lamb,
+Rare acquisition! and at every board
+And sumptuous banquet, he shall be a guest.255
+  He ceased, and all sat silent, when at length
+The mighty son of Tydeus thus replied.
+  Me, Nestor, my courageous heart incites
+To penetrate into the neighbor host
+Of enemies; but went some other Chief260
+With me, far greater would my comfort prove,
+And I should dare the more. Two going forth,
+One quicker sees than other, and suggests
+Prudent advice; but he who single goes,
+Mark whatsoe’er he may, the occasion less265
+Improves, and his expedients soon exhausts.
+  He ended, and no few willing arose
+To go with Diomede. Servants of Mars
+Each Ajax willing stood; willing as they
+Meriones; most willing Nestor’s son;270
+Willing the brother of the Chief of all,
+Nor willing less Ulysses to explore
+The host of Troy, for he possess’d a heart
+Delighted ever with some bold exploit.
+  Then Agamemnon, King of men, began.275
+Now Diomede, in whom my soul delights!
+Choose whom thou wilt for thy companion; choose
+The fittest here; for numerous wish to go.
+Leave not through deference to another’s rank,
+The more deserving, nor prefer a worse,280
+Respecting either pedigree or power.
+  Such speech he interposed, fearing his choice
+Of Menelaus; then, renown’d in arms
+The son of Tydeus, rising, spake again.
+  Since, then, ye bid me my own partner choose285
+Free from constraint, how can I overlook
+Divine Ulysses, whose courageous heart
+With such peculiar cheerfulness endures
+Whatever toils, and whom Minerva loves?
+Let _him_ attend me, and through fire itself290
+We shall return; for none is wise as he.[7]
+  To him Ulysses, hardy Chief, replied.
+Tydides! neither praise me much, nor blame,
+For these are Grecians in whose ears thou speak’st,
+And know me well. But let us hence! the night295
+Draws to a close; day comes apace; the stars
+Are far advanced; two portions have elapsed
+Of darkness, but the third is yet entire.
+  So they; then each his dreadful arms put on.
+To Diomede, who at the fleet had left300
+His own, the dauntless Thrasymedes gave
+His shield and sword two-edged, and on his head
+Placed, crestless, unadorn’d, his bull-skin casque.
+It was a stripling’s helmet, such as youths
+Scarce yet confirm’d in lusty manhood, wear.305
+Meriones with quiver, bow and sword
+Furnish’d Ulysses, and his brows enclosed
+In his own casque of hide with many a thong
+Well braced within;[8] guarded it was without
+With boar’s teeth ivory-white inherent firm310
+On all sides, and with woolen head-piece lined.
+That helmet erst Autolycus[9] had brought
+From Eleon, city of Amyntor son
+Of Hormenus, where he the solid walls
+Bored through, clandestine, of Amyntor’s house.315
+He on Amphidamas the prize bestow’d
+In Scandia;[10] from Amphidamas it pass’d
+To Molus as a hospitable pledge;
+He gave it to Meriones his son,
+And now it guarded shrewd Ulysses’ brows.320
+Both clad in arms terrific, forth they sped,
+Leaving their fellow Chiefs, and as they went
+A heron, by command of Pallas, flew
+Close on the right beside them; darkling they
+Discern’d him not, but heard his clanging plumes.[11]325
+Ulysses in the favorable sign
+Exulted, and Minerva thus invoked.[12]
+
+  Oh hear me, daughter of Jove Ægis-arm’d!
+My present helper in all straits, whose eye
+Marks all my ways, oh with peculiar care330
+Now guard me, Pallas! grant that after toil
+Successful, glorious, such as long shall fill
+With grief the Trojans, we may safe return
+And with immortal honors to the fleet.
+  Valiant Tydides, next, his prayer preferr’d.335
+Hear also me, Jove’s offspring by the toils
+Of war invincible! me follow now
+As my heroic father erst to Thebes
+Thou followedst, Tydeus; by the Greeks dispatch’d
+Ambassador, he left the mail-clad host340
+Beside Asopus, and with terms of peace
+Entrusted, enter’d Thebes; but by thine aid
+Benevolent, and in thy strength, perform’d
+Returning, deeds of terrible renown.
+Thus, now, protect me also! In return345
+I vow an offering at thy shrine, a young
+Broad-fronted heifer, to the yoke as yet
+Untamed, whose horns I will incase with gold.
+  Such prayer they made, and Pallas heard well pleased.
+Their orisons ended to the daughter dread350
+Of mighty Jove, lion-like they advanced
+Through shades of night, through carnage, arms and blood.
+  Nor Hector to his gallant host indulged
+Sleep, but convened the leaders; leader none
+Or senator of all his host he left355
+Unsummon’d, and his purpose thus promulged.
+  Where is the warrior who for rich reward,
+Such as shall well suffice him, will the task
+Adventurous, which I propose, perform?
+A chariot with two steeds of proudest height,360
+Surpassing all in the whole fleet of Greece
+Shall be his portion, with immortal praise,
+Who shall the well-appointed ships approach
+Courageous, there to learn if yet a guard
+As heretofore, keep them, or if subdued365
+Beneath us, the Achaians flight intend,
+And worn with labor have no will to watch.
+  So Hector spake, but answer none return’d.
+There was a certain Trojan, Dolon named,[13]
+Son of Eumedes herald of the Gods,370
+Rich both in gold and brass, but in his form
+Unsightly; yet the man was swift of foot,
+Sole brother of five sisters; he his speech
+To Hector and the Trojans thus address’d.
+  My spirit, Hector, prompts me, and my mind375
+Endued with manly vigor, to approach
+Yon gallant ships, that I may tidings hear.
+But come. For my assurance, lifting high
+Thy sceptre, swear to me, for my reward,
+The horses and the brazen chariot bright380
+Which bear renown’d Achilles o’er the field.
+I will not prove a useless spy, nor fall
+Below thy best opinion; pass I will
+Their army through, till I shall reach the ship
+Of Agamemnon, where the Chiefs, perchance,385
+Now sit consulting, or to fight, or fly.[14]
+
+  Then raising high his sceptre, Hector sware
+Know, Jove himself, Juno’s high-thundering spouse!
+That Trojan none shall in that chariot ride
+By those steeds drawn, save Dolon; on my oath390
+I make them thine; enjoy them evermore.
+  He said, and falsely sware, yet him assured.
+Then Dolon, instant, o’er his shoulder slung
+His bow elastic, wrapp’d himself around
+With a grey wolf-skin, to his head a casque395
+Adjusted, coated o’er with ferret’s felt,
+And seizing his sharp javelin, from the host
+Turn’d right toward the fleet, but was ordain’d
+To disappoint his sender, and to bring
+No tidings thence. The throng of Trojan steeds400
+And warriors left, with brisker pace he moved,
+When brave Ulysses his approach perceived,
+And thus to Diomede his speech address’d.
+  Tydides! yonder man is from the host;
+Either a spy he comes, or with intent405
+To spoil the dead. First, freely let him pass
+Few paces, then pursuing him with speed,
+Seize on him suddenly; but should he prove
+The nimbler of the three, with threatening spear
+Enforce him from his camp toward the fleet,410
+Lest he elude us, and escape to Troy.
+  So they; then, turning from the road oblique,
+Among the carcases each laid him down.
+Dolon, suspecting nought, ran swiftly by.
+[15]But when such space was interposed as mules415
+Plow in a day (for mules the ox surpass
+Through fallows deep drawing the ponderous plow)
+Both ran toward him. Dolon at the sound
+Stood; for he hoped some Trojan friends at hand
+From Hector sent to bid him back again.420
+But when within spear’s cast, or less they came,
+Knowing them enemies he turn’d to flight
+Incontinent, whom they as swift pursued.
+As two fleet hounds sharp fang’d, train’d to the chase,
+Hang on the rear of flying hind or hare,425
+And drive her, never swerving from the track,
+Through copses close; she screaming scuds before;
+So Diomede and dread Ulysses him
+Chased constant, intercepting his return.
+And now, fast-fleeting to the ships, he soon430
+Had reach’d the guard, but Pallas with new force
+Inspired Tydides, lest a meaner Greek
+Should boast that he had smitten Dolon first,
+And Diomede win only second praise.
+He poised his lifted spear, and thus exclaim’d.435
+  Stand! or my spear shall stop thee. Death impends
+At every step; thou canst not ’scape me long.
+  He said, and threw his spear, but by design,
+Err’d from the man. The polish’d weapon swift
+O’er-glancing his right shoulder, in the soil440
+Stood fixt, beyond him. Terrified he stood,
+Stammering, and sounding through his lips the clash
+Of chattering teeth, with visage deadly wan.
+They panting rush’d on him, and both his hands
+Seized fast; he wept, and suppliant them bespake.445
+  Take me alive, and I will pay the price
+Of my redemption. I have gold at home,
+Brass also, and bright steel, and when report
+Of my captivity within your fleet
+Shall reach my father, treasures he will give450
+Not to be told, for ransom of his son.
+  To whom Ulysses politic replied.
+Take courage; entertain no thought of death.[16]
+But haste! this tell me, and disclose the truth.
+Why thus toward the ships comest thou alone455
+From yonder host, by night, while others sleep?
+To spoil some carcase? or from Hector sent
+A spy of all that passes in the fleet?
+Or by thy curiosity impell’d?
+  Then Dolon, his limbs trembling, thus replied.460
+To my great detriment, and far beyond
+My own design, Hector trepann’d me forth,
+Who promised me the steeds of Peleus’ son
+Illustrious, and his brazen chariot bright.
+He bade me, under night’s fast-flitting shades465
+Approach our enemies, a spy, to learn
+If still as heretofore, ye station guards
+For safety of your fleet, or if subdued
+Completely, ye intend immediate flight,
+And worn with labor, have no will to watch.470
+  To whom Ulysses, smiling, thus replied.
+Thou hadst, in truth, an appetite to gifts
+Of no mean value, coveting the steeds
+Of brave Æacides; but steeds are they
+Of fiery sort, difficult to be ruled475
+By force of mortal man, Achilles’ self
+Except, whom an immortal mother bore.
+But tell me yet again; use no disguise;
+Where left’st thou, at thy coming forth, your Chief,
+The valiant Hector? where hath he disposed480
+His armor battle-worn, and where his steeds?
+What other quar4ers of your host are watch’d?
+Where lodge the guard, and what intend ye next?
+Still to abide in prospect of the fleet?
+Or well-content that ye have thus reduced485
+Achaia’s host, will ye retire to Troy?
+  To whom this answer Dolon straight returned
+Son of Eumedes. With unfeigning truth
+Simply and plainly will I utter all.
+Hector, with all the Senatorial Chiefs,490
+Beside the tomb of sacred Ilius sits
+Consulting, from the noisy camp remote.
+But for the guards, Hero! concerning whom
+Thou hast inquired, there is no certain watch
+And regular appointed o’er the camp;495
+The native[17] Trojans (for _they_ can no less)
+Sit sleepless all, and each his next exhorts
+To vigilance; but all our foreign aids,
+Who neither wives nor children hazard here,
+Trusting the Trojans for that service, sleep.500
+  To whom Ulysses, ever wise, replied.
+How sleep the strangers and allies?—apart?
+Or with the Trojans mingled?—I would learn.
+  So spake Ulysses; to whom Dolon thus,
+Son of Eumedes. I will all unfold,505
+And all most truly. By the sea are lodged
+The Carians, the Pæonians arm’d with bows,
+The Leleges, with the Pelasgian band,
+And the Caucones. On the skirts encamp
+Of Thymbra, the Mæonians crested high,510
+The Phrygian horsemen, with the Lycian host,
+And the bold troop of Mysia’s haughty sons.
+But wherefore these inquiries thus minu4e?
+For if ye wish to penetrate the host,
+These who possess the borders of the camp515
+Farthest removed of all, are Thracian powers
+Newly arrived; among them Rhesus sleeps,
+Son of Eïoneus, their Chief and King.
+His steeds I saw, the fairest by these eyes
+Ever beheld, and loftiest; snow itself520
+They pass in whiteness, and in speed the winds,
+With gold and silver all his chariot burns,
+And he arrived in golden armor clad
+Stupendous! little suited to the state
+Of mortal man—fit for a God to wear!525
+Now, either lead me to your gallant fleet,
+Or where ye find me leave me straitly bound
+Till ye return, and after trial made,
+Shall know if I have spoken false or true.
+
+  But him brave Diomede with aspect stern530
+Answer’d. Since, Dolon! thou art caught, although
+Thy tidings have been good, hope not to live;
+For should we now release thee and dismiss,
+Thou wilt revisit yet again the fleet
+A spy or open foe; but smitten once535
+By this death-dealing arm, thou shall return
+To render mischief to the Greeks no more.
+  He ceased, and Dolon would have stretch’d his hand
+Toward his beard, and pleaded hard for life,
+But with his falchion, rising to the blow,540
+On the mid-neck he smote him, cutting sheer
+Both tendons with a stroke so swift, that ere
+His tongue had ceased, his head was in the dust.[18]
+They took his helmet clothed with ferret’s felt,
+Stripp’d off his wolf-skin, seized his bow and spear,545
+And brave Ulysses lifting in his hand
+The trophy to Minerva, pray’d and said:
+  Hail Goddess; these are thine! for thee of all
+Who in Olympus dwell, we will invoke
+First to our aid. Now also guide our steps,550
+Propitious, to the Thracian tents and steeds.
+  He ceased, and at arm’s-length the lifted spoils
+Hung on a tamarisk; but mark’d the spot,
+Plucking away with handful grasp the reeds
+And spreading boughs, lest they should seek the prize555
+Themselves in vain, returning ere the night,
+Swift traveller, should have fled before the dawn.
+Thence, o’er the bloody champain strew’d with arms
+Proceeding, to the Thracian lines they came.
+They, wearied, slept profound; beside them lay,560
+In triple order regular arranged,
+Their radiant armor, and their steeds in pairs.
+Amid them Rhesus slept, and at his side
+His coursers, to the outer chariot-ring
+Fasten’d secure. Ulysses saw him first,565
+And, seeing, mark’d him out to Diomede.
+  Behold the man, Tydides! Lo! the steeds
+By Dolon specified whom we have slain.
+Be quick. Exert thy force. Arm’d as thou art,
+Sleep not. Loose thou the steeds, or slaughter thou570
+The Thracians, and the steeds shall be my care.
+  He ceased; then blue-eyed Pallas with fresh force
+Invigor’d Diomede. From side to side
+He slew; dread groans arose of dying men
+Hewn with the sword, and the earth swam with blood.575
+As if he find a flock unguarded, sheep
+Or goats, the lion rushes on his prey,
+With such unsparing force Tydides smote
+The men of Thrace, till he had slaughter’d twelve;
+And whom Tydides with his falchion struck580
+Laertes’ son dragg’d by his feet abroad,
+Forecasting that the steeds might pass with ease,
+Nor start, as yet uncustom’d to the dead.
+But when the son of Tydeus found the King,
+Him also panting forth his last, last, breath,585
+He added to the twelve; for at his head
+An evil dream that night had stood, the form
+Of Diomede, by Pallas’ art devised.
+Meantime, the bold Ulysses loosed the steeds,
+Which, to each other rein’d, he drove abroad,590
+Smiting them with his bow (for of the scourge
+He thought not in the chariot-seat secured)
+And as he went, hiss’d, warning Diomede.
+But he, projecting still some hardier deed,
+Stood doubtful, whether by the pole to draw595
+The chariot thence, laden with gorgeous arms,
+Or whether heaving it on high, to bear
+The burthen off, or whether yet to take
+More Thracian lives; when him with various thoughts
+Perplex’d, Minerva, drawing near, bespake.600
+  Son of bold Tydeus! think on thy return
+To yonder fleet, lest thou depart constrain’d.
+Some other God may rouse the powers of Troy.
+  She ended, and he knew the voice divine.
+At once he mounted. With his bow the steeds605
+Ulysses plyed, and to the ships they flew.
+  Nor look’d the bender of the silver bow,
+Apollo, forth in vain, but at the sight
+Of Pallas following Diomede incensed,
+Descended to the field where numerous most610
+He saw the Trojans, and the Thracian Chief
+And counsellor, Hippocoön aroused,[19]
+Kinsman of Rhesus, and renown’d in arms.
+He, starting from his sleep, soon as he saw
+The spot deserted where so lately lay615
+Those fiery coursers, and his warrior friends
+Gasping around him, sounded loud the name
+Of his loved Rhesus. Instant, at the voice,
+Wild stir arose and clamorous uproar
+Of fast-assembling Trojans. Deeds they saw—620
+Terrible deeds, and marvellous perform’d,
+But not their authors—they had sought the ships.
+  Meantime arrived where they had slain the spy
+Of Hector, there Ulysses, dear to Jove,
+The coursers stay’d, and, leaping to the ground,625
+The son of Tydeus in Ulysses’ hands
+The arms of Dolon placed foul with his blood,
+Then vaulted light into his seat again.
+He lash’d the steeds, they, not unwilling, flew
+To the deep-bellied barks, as to their home.630
+First Nestor heard the sound, and thus he said.
+  Friends! Counsellors! and leaders of the Greeks!
+False shall I speak, or true?—but speak I must.
+The echoing sound of hoofs alarms my ear.
+Oh, that Ulysses, and brave Diomede635
+This moment might arrive drawn into camp
+By Trojan steeds! But, ah, the dread I feel!
+Lest some disaster have for ever quell’d
+In yon rude host those noblest of the Greeks.
+  He hath not ended, when themselves arrived,640
+Both quick dismounted; joy at their return
+Fill’d every bosom; each with kind salute
+Cordial, and right-hand welcome greeted them,
+And first Gerenian Nestor thus inquired.
+  Oh Chief by all extoll’d, glory of Greece,645
+Ulysses! how have ye these steeds acquired?
+In yonder host? or met ye as ye went
+Some God who gave them to you? for they show
+A lustre dazzling as the beams of day.
+Old as I am, I mingle yet in fight650
+With Ilium’s sons—lurk never in the fleet—
+Yet saw I at no time, or have remark’d
+Steeds such as these; which therefore I believe
+Perforce, that ye have gained by gift divine;
+For cloud-assembler Jove, and azure-eyed655
+Minerva, Jove’s own daughter, love you both.
+  To whom Ulysses, thus, discreet, replied.
+Neleian Nestor, glory of the Greeks!
+A God, so willing, could have given us steeds
+Superior, for their bounty knows no bounds.660
+But, venerable Chief! these which thou seest
+Are Thracians new-arrived. Their master lies
+Slain by the valiant Diomede, with twelve
+The noblest of his warriors at his side,
+A thirteenth[20] also, at small distance hence665
+We slew, by Hector and the Chiefs of Troy
+Sent to inspect the posture of our host.
+  He said; then, high in exultation, drove
+The coursers o’er the trench, and with him pass’d
+The glad Achaians; at the spacious tent670
+Of Diomede arrived, with even thongs
+They tied them at the cribs where stood the steeds
+Of Tydeus’ son, with winnow’d wheat supplied.
+Ulysses in his bark the gory spoils
+Of Dolon placed, designing them a gift675
+To Pallas. Then, descending to the sea,
+Neck, thighs, and legs from sweat profuse they cleansed,
+And, so refresh’d and purified, their last
+Ablution in bright tepid baths perform’d.
+Each thus completely laved, and with smooth oil680
+Anointed, at the well-spread board they sat,
+And quaff’d, in honor of Minerva, wine
+Delicious, from the brimming beaker drawn.
+
+
+The vividness of the scenes presented to us in this Book constitute its
+chief beauty. The reader sees the most natural night-scene in the
+world. He is led step by step with the adventurers, and made the
+companion of all their expectations and uncertainties. We see the very
+color of the sky; know the time to a minute; are impatient while the
+heroes are arming; our imagination follows them, knows all their
+doubts, and even the secret wishes of their hearts sent up to Minerva.
+We are alarmed at the approach of Dolon, hear his very footsteps,
+assist the two chiefs in pursuing him, and stop just with the spear
+that arrests him. We are perfectly acquainted with the situation of all
+the forces, with the figure in which they lie, with the disposition of
+Rhesus and the Thracians, with the posture of his chariot and horses.
+The marshy spot of ground where Dolon is killed, the tamarisk, or
+aquatic plant upon which they hung his spoils, and the reeds that are
+heaped together to mark the place, are circumstances the most
+picturesque imaginable.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XI.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE ELEVENTH BOOK.
+
+Agamemnon distinguishes himself. He is wounded, and retires. Diomede is
+wounded by Paris; Ulysses by Socus. Ajax with Menelaus flies to the
+relief of Ulysses, and Eurypylus, soon after, to the relief of Ajax.
+While he is employed in assisting Ajax, he is shot in the thigh by
+Paris, who also wounds Machaon. Nestor conveys Machaon from the field.
+Achilles dispatches Patroclus to the tent of Nestor, and Nestor takes
+that occasion to exhort Patroclus to engage in battle, clothed in the
+armor of Achilles.
+
+
+BOOK XI.
+
+
+Aurora from Tithonus’ side arose
+With light for heaven and earth, when Jove dispatch’d
+Discord, the fiery signal in her hand
+Of battle bearing, to the Grecian fleet.
+High on Ulysses’ huge black ship she stood5
+The centre of the fleet, whence all might hear,
+The tent of Telamon’s huge son between,
+And of Achilles; for confiding they
+In their heroic fortitude, their barks
+Well-poised had station’d utmost of the line.10
+There standing, shrill she sent a cry abroad
+Among the Achaians, such as thirst infused
+Of battle ceaseless into every breast.
+All deem’d, at once, war sweeter, than to seek
+Their native country through the waves again.15
+Then with loud voice Atrides bade the Greeks
+Gird on their armor, and himself his arms
+Took radiant. First around his legs he clasp’d
+His shining greaves with silver studs secured,
+Then bound his corselet to his bosom, gift20
+Of Cynyras long since;[1] for rumor loud
+Had Cyprus reached of an Achaian host
+Assembling, destined to the shores of Troy:
+Wherefore, to gratify the King of men,
+He made the splendid ornament his own.25
+Ten rods of steel cœrulean all around
+Embraced it, twelve of gold, twenty of tin;
+Six[2] spiry serpents their uplifted heads
+Cœrulean darted at the wearer’s throat,
+Splendor diffusing as the various bow30
+Fix’d by Saturnian Jove in showery clouds,
+A sign to mortal men.[3] He slung his sword
+Athwart his shoulders; dazzling bright it shone
+With gold emboss’d, and silver was the sheath
+Suspended graceful in a belt of gold.35
+His massy shield o’ershadowing him whole,
+High-wrought and beautiful, he next assumed.
+Ten circles bright of brass around its field
+Extensive, circle within circle, ran;
+The central boss was black, but hemm’d about40
+With twice ten bosses of resplendent tin.
+There, dreadful ornament! the visage dark
+Of Gorgon scowl’d, border’d by Flight and Fear.
+The loop was silver, and a serpent form
+Cœrulean over all its surface twined,45
+Three heads erecting on one neck, the heads
+Together wreath’d into a stately crown.
+His helmet quâtre-crested,[4] and with studs
+Fast riveted around he to his brows
+Adjusted, whence tremendous waved his crest50
+Of mounted hair on high. Two spears he seized
+Ponderous, brass-pointed, and that flash’d to heaven.
+Sounds[5] like clear thunder, by the spouse of Jove
+And by Minerva raised to extol the King
+Of opulent Mycenæ, roll’d around.55
+At once each bade his charioteer his steeds
+Hold fast beside the margin of the trench
+In orderly array; the foot all arm’d
+Rush’d forward, and the clamor of the host
+Rose infinite into the dawning skies.60
+First, at the trench, the embattled infantry[6]
+Stood ranged; the chariots follow’d close behind;
+Dire was the tumult by Saturnian Jove
+Excited, and from ether down he shed
+Blood-tinctured dews among them, for he meant65
+That day to send full many a warrior bold
+To Pluto’s dreary realm, slain premature.
+  Opposite, on the rising-ground, appear’d
+The Trojans; them majestic Hector led,
+Noble Polydamas, Æneas raised70
+To godlike honors in all Trojan hearts,
+And Polybus, with whom Antenor’s sons
+Agenor, and young Acamas advanced.
+Hector the splendid orb of his broad shield
+Bore in the van, and as a comet now75
+Glares through the clouds portentous, and again,
+Obscured by gloomy vapors, disappears,
+So Hector, marshalling his host, in front
+Now shone, now vanish’d in the distant rear.
+All-cased he flamed in brass, and on the sight80
+Flash’d as the lightnings of Jove Ægis-arm’d.
+As reapers, toiling opposite,[7] lay bare
+Some rich man’s furrows, while the sever’d grain,
+Barley or wheat, sinks as the sickle moves,
+So Greeks and Trojans springing into fight85
+Slew mutual; foul retreat alike they scorn’d,
+Alike in fierce hostility their heads
+Both bore aloft, and rush’d like wolves to war.
+Discord, spectatress terrible, that sight
+Beheld exulting; she, of all the Gods,90
+Alone was present; not a Power beside
+There interfered, but each his bright abode
+Quiescent occupied wherever built
+Among the windings of the Olympian heights;
+Yet blamed they all the storm-assembler King95
+Saturnian, for his purposed aid to Troy.
+The eternal father reck’d not; he, apart,
+Seated in solitary pomp, enjoy’d
+His glory, and from on high the towers survey’d
+Of Ilium and the fleet of Greece, the flash100
+Of gleaming arms, the slayer and the slain.
+  While morning lasted, and the light of day
+Increased, so long the weapons on both sides
+Flew in thick vollies, and the people fell.
+But, what time his repast the woodman spreads105
+In some umbrageous vale, his sinewy arms
+Wearied with hewing many a lofty tree,
+And his wants satisfied, he feels at length
+The pinch of appetite to pleasant food,[8]
+Then was it, that encouraging aloud110
+Each other, in their native virtue strong,
+The Grecians through the phalanx burst of Troy.
+Forth sprang the monarch first; he slew the Chief
+Bianor, nor himself alone, but slew
+Oïleus also driver of his steeds.115
+Oïleus, with a leap alighting, rush’d
+On Agamemnon; he his fierce assault
+Encountering, with a spear met full his front.
+Nor could his helmet’s ponderous brass sustain
+That force, but both his helmet and his skull120
+It shatter’d, and his martial rage repress’d.
+The King of men, stripping their corselets, bared
+Their shining breasts, and left them. Isus, next,
+And Antiphus he flew to slay, the sons
+Of Priam both, and in one chariot borne,125
+This spurious, genuine that. The bastard drove,
+And Antiphus, a warrior high-renown’d,
+Fought from the chariot; them Achilles erst
+Feeding their flocks on Ida had surprised
+And bound with osiers, but for ransom loosed.130
+Of these, imperial Agamemnon, first,
+Above the pap pierced Isus; next, he smote
+Antiphus with his sword beside the ear,
+And from his chariot cast him to the ground.
+Conscious of both, their glittering arms he stripp’d,135
+For he had seen them when from Ida’s heights
+Achilles led them to the Grecian fleet.
+As with resistless fangs the lion breaks
+The young in pieces of the nimble hind,
+Entering her lair, and takes their feeble lives;140
+She, though at hand, can yield them no defence,
+But through the thick wood, wing’d with terror, starts
+Herself away, trembling at such a foe;
+So them the Trojans had no power to save,
+Themselves all driven before the host of Greece.145
+Next, on Pisandrus, and of dauntless heart
+Hippolochus he rush’d; they were the sons
+Of brave Antimachus, who with rich gifts
+By Paris bought, inflexible withheld
+From Menelaus still his lovely bride.150
+His sons, the monarch, in one chariot borne
+Encounter’d; they (for they had lost the reins)
+With trepidation and united force
+Essay’d to check the steeds; astonishment
+Seized both; Atrides with a lion’s rage155
+Came on, and from the chariot thus they sued.
+  Oh spare us! son of Atreus, and accept
+Ransom immense. Antimachus our sire
+Is rich in various treasure, gold and brass,
+And temper’d steel, and, hearing the report160
+That in Achaia’s fleet his sons survive,
+He will requite thee with a glorious price.
+  So they, with tears and gentle terms the King
+Accosted, but no gentle answer heard.
+  Are ye indeed the offspring of the Chief165
+Antimachus, who when my brother once
+With godlike Laertiades your town
+Enter’d ambassador, his death advised
+In council, and to let him forth no more?
+Now rue ye both the baseness of your sire.170
+  He said, and from his chariot to the plain
+Thrust down Pisandrus, piercing with keen lance
+His bosom, and supine he smote the field.
+Down leap’d Hippolochus, whom on the ground
+He slew, cut sheer his hands, and lopp’d his head,175
+And roll’d it like a mortar[9] through the ranks.
+He left the slain, and where he saw the field
+With thickest battle cover’d, thither flew
+By all the Grecians follow’d bright in arms.
+The scatter’d infantry constrained to fly,180
+Fell by the infantry; the charioteers,
+While with loud hoofs their steeds the dusty soil
+Excited, o’er the charioteers their wheels
+Drove brazen-fellied, and the King of men
+Incessant slaughtering, called his Argives[10] on.185
+As when fierce flames some ancient forest seize,
+From side to side in flakes the various wind
+Rolls them, and to the roots devour’d, the trunks
+Fall prostrate under fury of the fire,
+So under Agamemnon fell the heads190
+Of flying Trojans. Many a courser proud
+The empty chariots through the paths of war
+Whirl’d rattling, of their charioteers deprived;
+They breathless press’d the plain, now fitter far
+To feed the vultures than to cheer their wives.195
+  Conceal’d, meantime, by Jove, Hector escaped
+The dust, darts, deaths, and tumult of the field;
+And Agamemnon to the swift pursuit
+Call’d loud the Grecians. Through the middle plain
+Beside the sepulchre of Ilus, son200
+Of Dardanus, and where the fig-tree stood,
+The Trojans flew, panting to gain the town,
+While Agamemnon pressing close the rear,
+Shout after shout terrific sent abroad,
+And his victorious hands reek’d, red with gore.205
+But at the beech-tree and the Scæan gate
+Arrived, the Trojans halted, waiting there
+The rearmost fugitives; they o’er the field
+Came like a herd, which in the dead of night
+A lion drives; all fly, but one is doom’d210
+To death inevitable; her with jaws
+True to their hold he seizes, and her neck
+Breaking, embowels her, and laps the blood;
+So, Atreus’ royal son, the hindmost still
+Slaying, and still pursuing, urged them on.215
+Many supine, and many prone, the field
+Press’d, by the son of Atreus in their flight
+Dismounted; for no weapon raged as his.
+But now, at last, when he should soon have reach’d
+The lofty walls of Ilium, came the Sire220
+Of Gods and men descending from the skies,
+And on the heights of Ida fountain-fed,
+Sat arm’d with thunders. Calling to his foot
+Swift Iris golden-pinion’d, thus he spake.
+  Iris! away. Thus speak in Hector’s ears.225
+While yet he shall the son of Atreus see
+Fierce warring in the van, and mowing down
+The Trojan ranks, so long let him abstain
+From battle, leaving to his host the task
+Of bloody contest furious with the Greeks.230
+But soon as Atreus’ son by spear or shaft
+Wounded shall climb his chariot, with such force
+I will endue Hector, that he shall slay
+Till he have reach’d the ships, and till, the sun
+Descending, sacred darkness cover all.235
+  He spake, nor rapid Iris disobey’d
+Storm-wing’d ambassadress, but from the heights
+Of Ida stoop’d to Ilium. There she found
+The son of royal Priam by the throng
+Of chariots and of steeds compass’d about240
+She, standing at his side, him thus bespake.
+  Oh, son of Priam! as the Gods discreet!
+I bring thee counsel from the Sire of all.
+While yet thou shalt the son of Atreus see
+Fierce warring in the van, and mowing down245
+The warrior ranks, so long he bids thee pause
+From battle, leaving to thy host the task
+Of bloody contest furious with the Greeks.
+But soon as Atreus’ son, by spear or shaft
+Wounded, shall climb his chariot, Jove will then250
+Endue thee with such force, that thou shalt slay
+Till thou have reach’d the ships, and till, the sun
+Descending, sacred darkness cover all.
+  So saying, swift-pinion’d Iris disappear’d.
+Then Hector from his chariot at a leap255
+Came down all arm’d, and, shaking his bright spears,
+Ranged every quarter, animating loud
+The legions, and rekindling horrid war.
+Back roll’d the Trojan ranks, and faced the Greeks;
+The Greeks their host to closer phalanx drew;260
+The battle was restored, van fronting van
+They stood, and Agamemnon into fight
+Sprang foremost, panting for superior fame.
+  Say now, ye Nine, who on Olympus dwell!
+What Trojan first, or what ally of Troy265
+Opposed the force of Agamemnon’s arm?
+Iphidamas, Antenor’s valiant son,
+Of loftiest stature, who in fertile Thrace
+Mother of flocks was nourish’d, Cisseus him
+His grandsire, father of Theano praised270
+For loveliest features, in his own abode
+Rear’d yet a child, and when at length he reach’d
+The measure of his glorious manhood firm
+Dismiss’d him not, but, to engage him more,
+Gave him his daughter. Wedded, he his bride275
+As soon deserted, and with galleys twelve
+Following the rumor’d voyage of the Greeks,
+The same course steer’d; but at Percope moor’d,
+And marching thence, arrived on foot at Troy.
+He first opposed Atrides. They approach’d.280
+The spear of Agamemnon wander’d wide;
+But him Iphidamas on his broad belt
+Beneath the corselet struck, and, bearing still
+On his spear-beam, enforced it; but ere yet
+He pierced the broider’d zone, his point, impress’d285
+Against the silver, turn’d, obtuse as lead.
+Then royal Agamemnon in his hand
+The weapon grasping, with a lion’s rage
+Home drew it to himself, and from his gripe
+Wresting it, with his falchion keen his neck290
+Smote full, and stretch’d him lifeless at his foot.
+So slept Iphidamas among the slain;
+Unhappy! from his virgin bride remote,
+Associate with the men of Troy in arms
+He fell, and left her beauties unenjoy’d.295
+He gave her much, gave her a hundred beeves,
+And sheep and goats a thousand from his flocks
+Promised, for numberless his meadows ranged;
+But Agamemnon, son of Atreus, him
+Slew and despoil’d, and through the Grecian host300
+Proceeded, laden with his gorgeous arms.
+Coön that sight beheld, illustrious Chief,
+Antenor’s eldest born, but with dim eyes
+Through anguish for his brother’s fall. Unseen
+Of noble Agamemnon, at his side305
+He cautious stood, and with a spear his arm,
+Where thickest flesh’d, below his elbow, pierced,
+Till opposite the glittering point appear’d.
+A thrilling horror seized the King of men
+So wounded; yet though wounded so, from fight310
+He ceased not, but on Coön rush’d, his spear
+Grasping, well-thriven growth[11] of many a wind.
+He by the foot drew off Iphidamas,
+His brother, son of his own sire, aloud
+Calling the Trojan leaders to his aid;315
+When him so occupied with his keen point
+Atrides pierced his bossy shield beneath.
+Expiring on Iphidamas he fell
+Prostrate, and Agamemnon lopp’d his head.
+Thus, under royal Agamemnon’s hand,320
+Antenor’s sons their destiny fulfill’d,
+And to the house of Ades journey’d both.
+Through other ranks of warriors then he pass’d,
+Now with his spear, now with his falchion arm’d,
+And now with missile force of massy stones,325
+While yet his warm blood sallied from the wound.
+But when the wound grew dry, and the blood ceased,
+Anguish intolerable undermined
+Then all the might of Atreus’ royal son.
+As when a laboring woman’s arrowy throes330
+Seize her intense, by Juno’s daughters dread
+The birth-presiding Ilithyæ deep
+Infixt, dispensers of those pangs severe;
+So, anguish insupportable subdued
+Then all the might of Atreus’ royal son.335
+Up-springing to his seat, instant he bade
+His charioteer drive to the hollow barks,
+Heart-sick himself with pain; yet, ere he went,
+With voice loud-echoing hail’d the Danaï.
+  Friends! counsellors and leaders of the Greeks!340
+Now drive, yourselves, the battle from your ships.
+For me the Gods permit not to employ
+In fight with Ilium’s host the day entire.
+  He ended, and the charioteer his steeds
+Lash’d to the ships; they not unwilling flew,345
+Bearing from battle the afflicted King
+With foaming chests and bellies grey with dust.
+Soon Hector, noting his retreat, aloud
+Call’d on the Trojans and allies of Troy.
+  Trojans and Lycians, and close-fighting sons350
+Of Dardanus! oh summon all your might;
+Now, now be men! Their bravest is withdrawn!
+Glory and honor from Saturnian Jove
+On me attend; now full against the Greeks
+Drive all your steeds, and win a deathless name.355
+  He spake—and all drew courage from his word.
+As when his hounds bright-tooth’d some hunter cheers
+Against the lion or the forest-boar,
+So Priameïan Hector cheer’d his host
+Magnanimous against the sons of Greece,360
+Terrible as gore-tainted Mars. Among
+The foremost warriors, with success elate
+He strode, and flung himself into the fight
+Black as a storm which sudden from on high
+Descending, furrows deep the gloomy flood.365
+  Then whom slew Priameïan Hector first,
+Whom last, by Jove, that day, with glory crown’d?
+Assæus, Dolops, Orus, Agelaüs,
+Autonoüs, Hipponoüs, Æsymnus,
+Opheltius and Opites first he slew,370
+All leaders of the Greeks, and, after these,
+The people. As when whirlwinds of the West
+A storm encounter from the gloomy South,
+The waves roll multitudinous, and the foam
+Upswept by wandering gusts fills all the air,375
+So Hector swept the Grecians. Then defeat
+Past remedy and havoc had ensued,
+Then had the routed Grecians, flying, sought
+Their ships again, but that Ulysses[12] thus
+Summon’d the brave Tydides to his aid.380
+  Whence comes it, Diomede, that we forget
+Our wonted courage? Hither, O my friend!
+And, fighting at my side, ward off the shame
+That must be ours, should Hector seize the fleet.
+  To whom the valiant Diomede replied.385
+I will be firm; trust me thou shalt not find
+Me shrinking; yet small fruit of our attempts
+Shall follow, for the Thunderer, not to us,
+But to the Trojan, gives the glorious day.
+  The Hero spake, and from his chariot cast390
+Thymbræus to the ground pierced through the pap,
+While by Ulysses’ hand his charioteer
+Godlike Molion, fell. The warfare thus
+Of both for ever closed, them there they left,
+And plunging deep into the warrior-throng395
+Troubled the multitude. As when two boars
+Turn desperate on the close-pursuing hounds,
+So they, returning on the host of Troy,
+Slew on all sides, and overtoil’d with flight
+From Hector’s arm, the Greeks meantime respired.400
+Two warriors, next, their chariot and themselves
+They took, plebeians brave, sons of the seer
+Percosian Merops in prophetic skill
+Surpassing all; he both his sons forbad
+The mortal field, but disobedient they405
+Still sought it, for their destiny prevail’d.
+Spear-practised Diomede of life deprived
+Both these, and stripp’d them of their glorious arms,
+While by Ulysses’ hand Hippodamus
+Died and Hypeirochus. And now the son410
+Of Saturn, looking down from Ida, poised
+The doubtful war, and mutual deaths they dealt.
+Tydides plunged his spear into the groin
+Of the illustrious son of Pæon, bold
+Agastrophus. No steeds at his command415
+Had he, infatuate! but his charioteer
+His steeds detain’d remote, while through the van
+Himself on foot rush’d madly till he fell.
+But Hector through the ranks darting his eye
+Perceived, and with ear-piercing cries advanced420
+Against them, follow’d by the host of Troy.
+The son of Tydeus, shuddering, his approach
+Discern’d, and instant to Ulysses spake.[13]
+  Now comes the storm! This way the mischief rolls!
+Stand and repulse the Trojan. Now be firm.425
+  He said, and hurling his long-shadow’d beam
+Smote Hector. At his helmet’s crown he aim’d,
+Nor err’d, but brass encountering brass, the point
+Glanced wide, for he had cased his youthful brows
+In triple brass, Apollo’s glorious gift.430
+Yet with rapidity at such a shock
+Hector recoil’d into the multitude
+Afar, where sinking to his knees, he lean’d
+On his broad palm, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+But while Tydides follow’d through the van435
+His stormy spear, which in the distant soil
+Implanted stood, Hector his scatter’d sense
+Recovering, to his chariot sprang again,
+And, diving deep into his host, escaped.
+The noble son of Tydeus, spear in hand,440
+Rush’d after him, and as he went, exclaim’d.
+  Dog! thou hast now escaped; but, sure the stroke
+Approach’d thee nigh, well-aim’d. Once more thy prayers
+Which ever to Apollo thou prefer’st
+Entering the clash of battle, have prevail’d,445
+And he hath rescued thee. But well beware
+Our next encounter, for if also me
+Some God befriend, thou diest. Now will I seek
+Another mark, and smite whom next I may.
+  He spake, and of his armor stripp’d the son450
+Spear-famed of Pæon. Meantime Paris, mate
+Of beauteous Helen, drew his bow against
+Tydides; by a pillar of the tomb
+Of Ilus, ancient senator revered,
+Conceal’d he stood, and while the Hero loosed455
+His corselet from the breast of Pæon’s son
+Renown’d, and of his helmet and his targe
+Despoil’d him; Paris, arching quick his bow,
+No devious shaft dismiss’d, but his right foot
+Pierced through the sole, and fix’d it to the ground.460
+Transported from his ambush forth he leap’d
+With a loud laugh, and, vaunting, thus exclaim’d:
+  Oh shaft well shot! it galls thee. Would to heaven
+That it had pierced thy heart, and thou hadst died!
+So had the Trojans respite from their toils465
+Enjoy’d, who, now, shudder at sight of thee
+Like she-goats when the lion is at hand.
+  To whom, undaunted, Diomede replied.
+Archer shrew-tongued! spie-maiden! man of curls![14]
+Shouldst thou in arms attempt me face to face,470
+Thy bow and arrows should avail thee nought.
+Vain boaster! thou hast scratch’d my foot—no more—
+And I regard it as I might the stroke
+Of a weak woman or a simple child.
+The weapons of a dastard and a slave475
+Are ever such. More terrible are mine,
+And whom they pierce, though slightly pierced, he dies.
+His wife her cheeks rends inconsolable,
+His babes are fatherless, his blood the glebe
+Incarnadines, and where he bleeds and rots480
+More birds of prey than women haunt the place.
+  He ended, and Ulysses, drawing nigh,
+Shelter’d Tydides; he behind the Chief
+Of Ithaca sat drawing forth the shaft,
+But pierced with agonizing pangs the while.485
+Then, climbing to his chariot-seat, he bade
+Sthenelus hasten to the hollow ships,
+Heart-sick with pain. And now alone was seen
+Spear-famed Ulysses; not an Argive more
+Remain’d, so universal was the rout,490
+And groaning, to his own great heart he said.
+  Alas! what now awaits me? If, appall’d
+By multitudes, I fly, much detriment;
+And if alone they intercept me here,
+Still more; for Jove hath scatter’d all the host,495
+Yet why these doubts! for know I not of old
+That only dastards fly, and that the voice
+Of honor bids the famed in battle stand,
+Bleed they themselves, or cause their foes to bleed?
+  While busied in such thought he stood, the ranks500
+Of Trojans fronted with broad shields, enclosed
+The hero with a ring, hemming around
+Their own destruction. As when dogs, and swains
+In prime of manhood, from all quarters rush
+Around a boar, he from his thicket bolts,505
+The bright tusk whetting in his crooked jaws:
+They press him on all sides, and from beneath
+Loud gnashings hear, yet firm, his threats defy;
+Like them the Trojans on all sides assail’d
+Ulysses dear to Jove. First with his spear510
+He sprang impetuous on a valiant chief,
+Whose shoulder with a downright point he pierced,
+Deïopites; Thoön next he slew,
+And Ennomus, and from his coursers’ backs
+Alighting quick, Chersidamas; beneath515
+His bossy shield the gliding weapon pass’d
+Right through his navel; on the plain he fell
+Expiring, and with both hands clench’d the dust.
+Them slain he left, and Charops wounded next,
+Brother of Socus, generous Chief, and son520
+Of Hippasus; brave Socus to the aid
+Of Charops flew, and, godlike, thus began.
+  Illustrious chief, Ulysses! strong to toil
+And rich in artifice! Or boast to-day
+Two sons of Hippasus, brave warriors both,525
+Of armor and of life bereft by thee,
+Or to my vengeful spear resign thy own!
+  So saying, Ulysses’ oval disk he smote.
+Through his bright disk the stormy weapon flew,
+Transpierced his twisted mail, and from his side530
+Drove all the skin, but to his nobler parts
+Found entrance none, by Pallas turn’d aslant.[15]
+Ulysses, conscious of his life untouch’d,
+Retired a step from Socus, and replied.
+  Ah hapless youth; thy fate is on the wing;535
+Me thou hast forced indeed to cease a while
+From battle with the Trojans, but I speak
+Thy death at hand; for vanquish’d by my spear,
+This self-same day thou shalt to me resign
+Thy fame, thy soul to Pluto steed-renown’d.540
+  He ceased; then Socus turn’d his back to fly,
+But, as he turn’d, his shoulder-blades between
+He pierced him, and the spear urged through his breast.
+On his resounding arms he fell, and thus
+Godlike Ulysses gloried in his fall.545
+  Ah, Socus, son of Hippasus, a chief
+Of fame equestrian! swifter far than thou
+Death follow’d thee, and thou hast not escaped.
+Ill-fated youth! thy parents’ hands thine eyes
+Shall never close, but birds of ravenous maw550
+Shall tear thee, flapping thee with frequent wing,
+While me the noble Grecians shall entomb!
+  So saying, the valiant Socus’ spear he drew
+From his own flesh, and through his bossy shield.
+The weapon drawn, forth sprang the blood, and left555
+His spirit faint. Then Ilium’s dauntless sons,
+Seeing Ulysses’ blood, exhorted glad
+Each other, and, with force united, all
+Press’d on him. He, retiring, summon’d loud
+His followers. Thrice, loud as mortal may,560
+He call’d, and valiant Menelaus thrice
+Hearing the voice, to Ajax thus remark’d.
+  Illustrious son of Telamon! The voice
+Of Laertiades comes o’er my ear
+With such a sound, as if the hardy chief,565
+Abandon’d of his friends, were overpower’d
+By numbers intercepting his retreat.
+Haste! force we quick a passage through the ranks.
+His worth demands our succor, for I fear
+Lest sole conflicting with the host of Troy,570
+Brave as he is, he perish, to the loss
+Unspeakable and long regret of Greece.
+  So saying, he went, and Ajax, godlike Chief,
+Follow’d him. At the voice arrived, they found
+Ulysses Jove-beloved compass’d about575
+By Trojans, as the lynxes in the hills,
+Adust for blood, compass an antler’d stag
+Pierced by an archer; while his blood is warm
+And his limbs pliable, from him he ’scapes;
+But when the feather’d barb hath quell’d his force,580
+In some dark hollow of the mountain’s side,
+The hungry troop devour him; chance, the while,
+Conducts a lion thither, before whom
+All vanish, and the lion feeds alone;
+So swarm’d the Trojan powers, numerous and bold,585
+Around Ulysses, who with wary skill
+Heroic combated his evil day.
+But Ajax came, cover’d with his broad shield
+That seem’d a tower, and at Ulysses’ side
+Stood fast; then fled the Trojans wide-dispersed,590
+And Menelaus led him by the hand
+Till his own chariot to his aid approach’d.
+But Ajax, springing on the Trojans, slew
+Doryclus, from the loins of Priam sprung,
+But spurious. Pandocus he wounded next,595
+Then wounded Pyrasus, and after him
+Pylartes and Lysander. As a flood
+Runs headlong from the mountains to the plain
+After long showers from Jove; many a dry oak
+And many a pine the torrent sweeps along,600
+And, turbid, shoots much soil into the sea,
+So, glorious Ajax troubled wide the field,
+Horse and man slaughtering, whereof Hector yet
+Heard not; for on the left of all the war
+He fought beside Scamander, where around605
+Huge Nestor, and Idomeneus the brave,
+Most deaths were dealt, and loudest roar’d the fight.
+There Hector toil’d, feats wonderful of spear
+And horsemanship achieving, and the lines
+Of many a phalanx desolating wide.610
+Nor even then had the bold Greeks retired,
+But that an arrow triple-barb’d, dispatch’d
+By Paris, Helen’s mate, against the Chief
+Machaon warring with distinguish’d force,
+Pierced his right shoulder. For his sake alarm’d,615
+The valor-breathing Grecians fear’d, lest he
+In that disast’rous field should also fall.[16]
+At once, Idomeneus of Crete approach’d
+The noble Nestor, and him thus bespake.
+  Arise, Neleian Nestor! Pride of Greece!620
+Ascend thy chariot, and Machaon placed
+Beside thee, bear him, instant to the fleet.
+For one, so skill’d in medicine, and to free
+The inherent barb, is worth a multitude.
+  He said, nor the Gerenian hero old625
+Aught hesitated, but into his seat
+Ascended, and Machaon, son renown’d
+Of Æsculapius, mounted at his side.
+He lash’d the steeds, they not unwilling sought
+The hollow ships, long their familiar home.630
+  Cebriones, meantime, the charioteer
+Of Hector, from his seat the Trojan ranks
+Observing sore discomfited, began.
+  Here are we busied, Hector! on the skirts
+Of roaring battle, and meantime I see635
+Our host confused, their horses and themselves
+All mingled. Telamonian Ajax there
+Routs them; I know the hero by his shield.
+Haste, drive we thither, for the carnage most
+Of horse and foot conflicting furious, there640
+Rages, and infinite the shouts arise.
+  He said, and with shrill-sounding scourge the steeds
+Smote ample-maned; they, at the sudden stroke
+Through both hosts whirl’d the chariot, shields and men
+Trampling; with blood the axle underneath645
+All redden’d, and the chariot-rings with drops
+From the horse-hoofs, and from the fellied wheels.
+Full on the multitude he drove, on fire
+To burst the phalanx, and confusion sent
+Among the Greeks, for nought[17] he shunn’d the spear.650
+All quarters else with falchion or with lance,
+Or with huge stones he ranged, but cautious shunn’d
+The encounter of the Telamonian Chief.
+  But the eternal father throned on high
+With fear fill’d Ajax; panic-fixt he stood,655
+His seven-fold shield behind his shoulder cast,
+And hemm’d by numbers, with an eye askant,
+Watchful retreated. As a beast of prey
+Retiring, turns and looks, so he his face
+Turn’d oft, retiring slow, and step by step.660
+As when the watch-dogs and assembled swains
+Have driven a tawny lion from the stalls,
+Then, interdicting him his wish’d repast,
+Watch all the night, he, famish’d, yet again
+Comes furious on, but speeds not, kept aloof665
+By frequent spears from daring hands, but more
+By flash of torches, which, though fierce, he dreads,
+Till, at the dawn, sullen he stalks away;
+So from before the Trojans Ajax stalk’d
+Sullen, and with reluctance slow retired.670
+His brave heart trembling for the fleet of Greece.
+As when (the boys o’erpower’d) a sluggish ass,
+On whose tough sides they have spent many a staff,
+Enters the harvest, and the spiry ears
+Crops persevering; with their rods the boys675
+Still ply him hard, but all their puny might
+Scarce drives him forth when he hath browsed his fill,
+So, there, the Trojans and their foreign aids
+With glittering lances keen huge Ajax urged,
+His broad shield’s centre smiting.[18] He, by turns,680
+With desperate force the Trojan phalanx dense
+Facing, repulsed them, and by turns he fled,
+But still forbad all inroad on the fleet.
+Trojans and Greeks between, alone, he stood
+A bulwark. Spears from daring hands dismiss’d685
+Some, piercing his broad shield, there planted stood,
+While others, in the midway falling, spent
+Their disappointed rage deep in the ground.
+
+  Eurypylus, Evæmon’s noble son,
+Him seeing, thus, with weapons overwhelmed690
+Flew to his side, his glittering lance dismiss’d,
+And Apisaon, son of Phausias, struck
+Under the midriff; through his liver pass’d
+The ruthless point, and, falling, he expired.
+Forth sprang Eurypylus to seize the spoil;695
+Whom soon as godlike Alexander saw
+Despoiling Apisaon of his arms,
+Drawing incontinent his bow, he sent
+A shaft to his right thigh; the brittle reed
+Snapp’d, and the rankling barb stuck fast within.700
+Terrified at the stroke, the wounded Chief
+To his own band retired, but, as he went,
+With echoing voice call’d on the Danaï—
+  Friends! Counsellors, and leaders of the Greeks!
+Turn ye and stand, and from his dreadful lot705
+Save Ajax whelm’d with weapons; ’scape, I judge,
+He cannot from the roaring fight, yet oh
+Stand fast around him; if save ye may,
+Your champion huge, the Telamonian Chief!
+  So spake the wounded warrior. They at once710
+With sloping bucklers, and with spears erect,
+To his relief approach’d. Ajax with joy
+The friendly phalanx join’d, then turn’d and stood.
+  Thus burn’d the embattled field as with the flames
+Of a devouring fire. Meantime afar715
+From all that tumult the Neleian mares
+Bore Nestor, foaming as they ran, with whom
+Machaon also rode, leader revered.
+Achilles mark’d him passing; for he stood
+Exalted on his huge ship’s lofty stern,720
+Spectator of the toil severe, and flight
+Deplorable of the defeated Greeks.
+He call’d his friend Patroclus. He below
+Within his tent the sudden summons heard
+And sprang like Mars abroad, all unaware725
+That in that sound he heard the voice of fate.
+Him first Menœtius’ gallant son address’d.
+  What would Achilles? Wherefore hath he call’d?
+To whom Achilles swiftest of the swift:
+  Brave Menœtiades! my soul’s delight!730
+Soon will the Grecians now my knees surround
+Suppliant, by dread extremity constrain’d.
+But fly Patroclus, haste, oh dear to Jove!
+Inquire of Nestor, whom he hath convey’d
+From battle, wounded? Viewing him behind,735
+I most believed him Æsculapius’ son
+Machaon, but the steeds so swiftly pass’d
+My galley, that his face escaped my note.[19]
+  He said, and prompt to gratify his friend,
+Forth ran Patroclus through the camp of Greece.740
+  Now when Neleian Nestor to his tent
+Had brought Machaon, they alighted both,
+And the old hero’s friend Eurymedon
+Released the coursers. On the beach awhile
+Their tunics sweat-imbued in the cool air745
+They ventilated, facing full the breeze,
+Then on soft couches in the tent reposed.
+Meantime, their beverage Hecamede mix’d,
+The old King’s bright-hair’d captive, whom he brought
+From Tenedos, what time Achilles sack’d750
+The city, daughter of the noble Chief
+Arsinoüs, and selected from the rest
+For Nestor, as the honorable meed
+Of counsels always eminently wise.
+She, first, before them placed a table bright,755
+With feet cœrulean; thirst-provoking sauce
+She brought them also in a brazen tray,
+Garlic[20] and honey new, and sacred meal.
+Beside them, next, she placed a noble cup
+Of labor exquisite, which from his home760
+The ancient King had brought with golden studs
+Embellish’d; it presented to the grasp
+Four ears; two golden turtles, perch’d on each,
+Seem’d feeding, and two turtles[21] form’d the base.
+That cup once fill’d, all others must have toil’d765
+To move it from the board, but it was light
+In Nestor’s hand; he lifted it with ease.[22]
+The graceful virgin in that cup a draught
+Mix’d for them, Pramnian wine and savory cheese
+Of goat’s milk, grated with a brazen rasp,770
+Then sprinkled all with meal. The draught prepared,
+She gave it to their hand; they, drinking, slaked
+Their fiery thirst, and with each other sat
+Conversing friendly, when the godlike youth
+By brave Achilles sent, stood at the door.775
+  Him seeing, Nestor from his splendid couch
+Arose, and by the hand leading him in,
+Entreated him to sit, but that request
+Patroclus, on his part refusing, said,
+  Oh venerable King! no seat is here780
+For me, nor may thy courtesy prevail.
+He is irascible, and to be fear’d
+Who bade me ask what Chieftain thou hast brought
+From battle, wounded; but untold I learn;
+I see Machaon, and shall now report785
+As I have seen; oh ancient King revered!
+Thou know’st Achilles fiery, and propense
+Blame to impute even where blame is none.
+
+  To whom the brave Gerenian thus replied.
+Why feels Achilles for the wounded Greeks790
+Such deep concern? He little knows the height
+To which our sorrows swell. Our noblest lie
+By spear or arrow wounded in the fleet.
+Diomede, warlike son of Tydeus, bleeds,
+Gall’d by a shaft; Ulysses, glorious Chief,795
+And Agamemnon[23] suffer by the spear;
+Eurypylus is shot into the thigh,
+And here lies still another newly brought
+By me from fight, pierced also by a shaft.
+What then? How strong soe’er to give them aid,800
+Achilles feels no pity of the Greeks.
+Waits he till every vessel on the shore
+Fired, in despite of the whole Argive host,
+Be sunk in its own ashes, and ourselves
+All perish, heaps on heaps? For in my limbs805
+No longer lives the agility of my youth.
+Oh, for the vigor of those days again,
+When Elis, for her cattle which we took,
+Strove with us and Itymoneus I slew,
+Brave offspring of Hypirochus; he dwelt810
+In Elis, and while I the pledges drove,
+Stood for his herd, but fell among the first
+By a spear hurl’d from my victorious arm.
+Then fled the rustic multitude, and we
+Drove off abundant booty from the plain,815
+Herds fifty of fat beeves, large flocks of goats
+As many, with as many sheep and swine,
+And full thrice fifty mares of brightest hue,
+All breeders, many with their foals beneath.
+All these, by night returning safe, we drove820
+Into Neleian Pylus, and the heart
+Rejoiced of Neleus, in a son so young
+A warrior, yet enrich’d with such a prize.
+At early dawn the heralds summon’d loud
+The citizens, to prove their just demands825
+On fruitful Elis, and the assembled Chiefs
+Division made (for numerous were the debts
+Which the Epeans, in the weak estate
+Of the unpeopled Pylus, had incurr’d;
+For Hercules, few years before, had sack’d[24]830
+Our city, and our mightiest slain. Ourselves
+The gallant sons of Neleus, were in all
+Twelve youths, of whom myself alone survived;
+The rest all perish’d; whence, presumptuous grown,
+The brazen-mail’d Epeans wrong’d us oft).835
+A herd of beeves my father for himself
+Selected, and a numerous flock beside,
+Three hundred sheep, with shepherds for them all.
+For he a claimant was of large arrears
+From sacred Elis. Four unrivall’d steeds840
+With his own chariot to the games he sent,
+That should contend for the appointed prize
+A tripod; but Augeias, King of men,
+Detain’d the steeds, and sent the charioteer
+Defrauded home. My father, therefore, fired845
+At such foul outrage both of deeds and words,
+Took much, and to the Pylians gave the rest
+For satisfaction of the claims of all.
+While thus we busied were in these concerns,
+And in performance of religious rites850
+Throughout the city, came the Epeans arm’d,
+Their whole vast multitude both horse and foot
+On the third day; came also clad in brass
+The two Molions, inexpert as yet
+In feats of arms, and of a boyish age.855
+There is a city on a mountain’s head,
+Fast by the banks of Alpheus, far remote,
+The utmost town which sandy Pylus owns,
+Named Thryoëssa, and, with ardor fired
+To lay it waste, that city they besieged.860
+Now when their host had traversed all the plain,
+Minerva from Olympus flew by night
+And bade us arm; nor were the Pylians slow
+To assemble, but impatient for the fight.
+Me, then, my father suffer’d not to arm,865
+But hid my steeds, for he supposed me raw
+As yet, and ignorant how war is waged.
+Yet, even thus, unvantaged and on foot,
+Superior honors I that day acquired
+To theirs who rode, for Pallas led me on870
+Herself to victory. There is a stream
+Which at Arena falls into the sea,
+Named Minuëius; on that river’s bank
+The Pylian horsemen waited day’s approach,
+And thither all our foot came pouring down.875
+The flood divine of Alpheus thence we reach’d
+At noon, all arm’d complete; there, hallow’d rites
+We held to Jove omnipotent, and slew
+A bull to sacred Alpheus, with a bull
+To Neptune, and a heifer of the herd880
+To Pallas; then, all marshall’d as they were,
+From van to rear our legions took repast,
+And at the river’s side slept on their arms.
+Already the Epean host had round
+Begirt the city, bent to lay it waste,885
+A task which cost them, first, both blood and toil,
+For when the radiant sun on the green earth
+Had risen, with prayer to Pallas and to Jove,
+We gave them battle. When the Pylian host
+And the Epeans thus were close engaged,890
+I first a warrior slew, Mulius the brave,
+And seized his coursers. He the eldest-born
+Of King Augeias’ daughters had espoused
+The golden Agamede; not an herb
+The spacious earth yields but she knew its powers,895
+Him, rushing on me, with my brazen lance
+I smote, and in the dust he fell; I leap’d
+Into his seat, and drove into the van.
+A panic seized the Epeans when they saw
+The leader of their horse o’erthrown, a Chief900
+Surpassing all in fight. Black as a cloud
+With whirlwind fraught, I drove impetuous on,
+Took fifty chariots, and at side of each
+Lay two slain warriors, with their teeth the soil
+Grinding, all vanquish’d by my single arm.905
+I had slain also the Molions, sons
+Of Actor, but the Sovereign of the deep
+Their own authentic Sire, in darkness dense
+Involving both, convey’d them safe away.
+Then Jove a victory of prime renown910
+Gave to the Pylians; for we chased and slew
+And gather’d spoil o’er all the champain spread
+With scatter’d shields, till we our steeds had driven
+To the Buprasian fields laden with corn,
+To the Olenian rock, and to a town915
+In fair Colona situate, and named
+Alesia. There it was that Pallas turn’d
+Our people homeward; there I left the last
+Of all the slain, and he was slain by me.
+Then drove the Achaians from Buprasium home920
+Their coursers fleet, and Jove, of Gods above,
+Received most praise, Nestor of men below.
+  Such once was I. But brave Achilles shuts
+His virtues close, an unimparted store;
+Yet even he shall weep, when all the host,925
+His fellow-warriors once, shall be destroy’d.
+But recollect, young friend! the sage advice
+Which when thou earnest from Phthia to the aid
+Of Agamemnon, on that selfsame day
+Menœtius gave thee. We were present there,930
+Ulysses and myself, both in the house,
+And heard it all; for to the house we came
+Of Peleus in our journey through the land
+Of fertile Greece, gathering her states to war.
+We found thy noble sire Menœtius there,935
+Thee and Achilles; ancient Peleus stood
+To Jove the Thunderer offering in his court
+Thighs of an ox, and on the blazing rites
+Libation pouring from a cup of gold.
+While ye on preparation of the feast940
+Attended both, Ulysses and myself
+Stood in the vestibule; Achilles flew
+Toward us, introduced us by the hand,
+And, seating us, such liberal portion gave
+To each, as hospitality requires.945
+Our thirst, at length, and hunger both sufficed,
+I, foremost speaking, ask’d you to the wars,
+And ye were eager both, but from your sires
+Much admonition, ere ye went, received.
+Old Peleus charged Achilles to aspire950
+To highest praise, and always to excel.
+But thee, thy sire Menœtius thus advised.
+“My son! Achilles boasts the nobler birth,
+But thou art elder; he in strength excels
+Thee far; thou, therefore, with discretion rule955
+His inexperience; thy advice impart
+With gentleness; instruction wise suggest
+Wisely, and thou shalt find him apt to learn.”
+So thee thy father taught, but, as it seems,
+In vain. Yet even now essay to move960
+Warlike Achilles; if the Gods so please,
+Who knows but that thy reasons may prevail
+To rouse his valiant heart? men rarely scorn
+The earnest intercession of a friend.
+But if some prophecy alarm his fears,965
+And from his Goddess mother he have aught
+Received, who may have learnt the same from Jove,
+Thee let him send at least, and order forth
+With thee the Myrmidons; a dawn of hope
+Shall thence, it may be, on our host arise.970
+And let him send thee to the battle clad
+In his own radiant armor; Troy, deceived
+By such resemblance, shall abstain perchance
+From conflict, and the weary Greeks enjoy
+Short respite; it is all that war allows.975
+Fresh as ye are, ye, by your shouts alone,
+May easily repulse an army spent
+With labor from the camp and from the fleet.
+  Thus Nestor, and his mind bent to his words.
+Back to Æacides through all the camp980
+He ran; and when, still running, he arrived
+Among Ulysses’ barks, where they had fix’d
+The forum, where they minister’d the laws,
+And had erected altars to the Gods,
+There him Eurypylus, Evæmon’s son,985
+Illustrious met, deep-wounded in his thigh,
+And halting-back from battle. From his head
+The sweat, and from his shoulders ran profuse,
+And from his perilous wound the sable blood
+Continual stream’d; yet was his mind composed.990
+Him seeing, Menœtiades the brave
+Compassion felt, and mournful, thus began.
+  Ah hapless senators and Chiefs of Greece!
+Left ye your native country that the dogs
+Might fatten on your flesh at distant Troy?995
+But tell me, Hero! say, Eurypylus!
+Have the Achaians power still to withstand
+The enormous force of Hector, or is this
+The moment when his spear must pierce us all?
+  To whom Eurypylus, discreet, replied.1000
+Patroclus, dear to Jove! there is no help,
+No remedy. We perish at our ships.
+The warriors, once most strenuous of the Greeks,
+Lie wounded in the fleet by foes whose might
+Increases ever. But thyself afford1005
+To me some succor; lead me to my ship;
+Cut forth the arrow from my thigh; the gore
+With warm ablution cleanse, and on the wound
+Smooth unguents spread, the same as by report
+Achilles taught thee; taught, himself, their use1010
+By Chiron, Centaur, justest of his kind
+For Podalirius and Machaon both
+Are occupied. Machaon, as I judge,
+Lies wounded in his tent, needing like aid
+Himself, and Podalirius in the field1015
+Maintains sharp conflict with the sons of Troy.
+  To whom Menœtius’ gallant son replied.
+Hero! Eurypylus! how shall we act
+In this perplexity? what course pursue?
+I seek the brave Achilles, to whose ear1020
+I bear a message from the ancient chief
+Gerenian Nestor, guardian of the Greeks.
+Yet will I not, even for such a cause,
+My friend! abandon thee in thy distress.
+  He ended, and his arms folding around1025
+The warrior bore him thence into his tent.
+His servant, on his entrance, spread the floor
+With hides, on which Patroclus at his length
+Extended him, and with his knife cut forth
+The rankling point; with tepid lotion, next,1030
+He cleansed the gore, and with a bitter root
+Bruised small between his palms, sprinkled the wound.
+At once, the anodyne his pain assuaged,
+The wound was dried within, and the blood ceased.
+
+
+It will be well here to observe the position of the Greeks. All human
+aid is cut off by the wounds of their heroes, and all assistance from
+the Gods forbidden by Jupiter. On the contrary, the Trojans see their
+general at their head, and Jupiter himself fights on their side. Upon
+this hinge turns the whole poem. The distress of the Greeks occasions
+first the assistance of Patroclus, and then the death of that hero
+brings back Achilles.
+
+The poet shows great skill in conducting these incidents. He gives
+Achilles the pleasure of seeing that the Greeks could not carry on the
+war without his assistance, and upon this depends the great catastrophe
+of the poem.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWELFTH BOOK.
+
+The Trojans assail the ramparts, and Hector forces the gates.
+
+
+BOOK XII.
+
+
+So was Menœtius’ gallant son employ’d
+Healing Eurypylus. The Greeks, meantime,
+And Trojans with tumultuous fury fought.
+Nor was the foss ordain’d long time to exclude
+The host of Troy, nor yet the rampart built5
+Beside it for protection of the fleet;
+For hecatomb the Greeks had offer’d none,
+Nor prayer to heaven, that it might keep secure
+Their ships with all their spoils. The mighty work
+As in defiance of the Immortal Powers10
+Had risen, and could not therefore long endure.
+While Hector lived, and while Achilles held
+His wrathful purpose; while the city yet
+Of royal Priam was unsack’d, so long
+The massy structure stood; but when the best15
+And bravest of the Trojan host were slain,
+And of the Grecian heroes, some had fallen
+And some survived, when Priam’s towers had blazed
+In the tenth year, and to their native shores
+The Grecians with their ships, at length, return’d,20
+Then Neptune, with Apollo leagued, devised
+Its ruin; every river that descends
+From the Idæan heights into the sea
+They brought against it, gathering all their force.
+Rhesus, Caresus, Rhodius, the wide-branch’d25
+Heptaporus, Æsepus, Granicus,
+Scamander’s sacred current, and thy stream
+Simöis, whose banks with helmets and with shields
+Were strew’d, and Chiefs of origin divine;
+All these with refluent course Apollo drove30
+Nine days against the rampart, and Jove rain’d
+Incessant, that the Grecian wall wave-whelm’d
+Through all its length might sudden disappear.
+Neptune with his tridental mace, himself,
+Led them, and beam and buttress to the flood35
+Consigning, laid by the laborious Greeks,
+Swept the foundation, and the level bank
+Of the swift-rolling Hellespont restored.
+The structure thus effaced, the spacious beach
+He spread with sand as at the first; then bade40
+Subside the streams, and in their channels wind
+With limpid course, and pleasant as before,
+  Apollo thus and Neptune, from the first,
+Design’d its fall; but now the battle raved
+And clamors of the warriors all around45
+The strong-built turrets, whose assaulted planks
+Rang, while the Grecians, by the scourge of Jove
+Subdued, stood close within their fleet immured,
+At Hector’s phalanx-scattering force appall’d.
+He, as before, with whirlwind fury fought.50
+As when the boar or lion fiery-eyed
+Turns short, the hunters and the hounds among,
+The close-embattled troop him firm oppose,
+And ply him fast with spears; he no dismay
+Conceives or terror in his noble heart,55
+But by his courage falls; frequent he turns
+Attempting bold the ranks, and where he points
+Direct his onset, there the ranks retire;
+So, through the concourse on his rolling wheels
+Borne rapid, Hector animated loud60
+His fellow-warriors to surpass the trench.
+But not his own swift-footed steeds would dare
+That hazard; standing on the dangerous brink
+They neigh’d aloud, for by its breadth the foss
+Deterr’d them; neither was the effort slight65
+To leap that gulf, nor easy the attempt
+To pass it through; steep were the banks profound
+On both sides, and with massy piles acute
+Thick-planted, interdicting all assault.
+No courser to the rapid chariot braced70
+Had enter’d there with ease; yet strong desires
+Possess’d the infantry of that emprize,
+And thus Polydamas the ear address’d
+Of dauntless Hector, standing at his side.
+  Hector, and ye the leaders of our host,75
+Both Trojans and allies! rash the attempt
+I deem, and vain, to push our horses through,
+So dangerous is the pass; rough is the trench
+With pointed stakes, and the Achaian wall
+Meets us beyond. No chariot may descend80
+Or charioteer fight there; strait are the bounds,
+And incommodious, and his death were sure.
+If Jove, high-thundering Ruler of the skies,
+Will succor Ilium, and nought less intend
+Than utter devastation of the Greeks,85
+I am content; now perish all their host
+Inglorious, from their country far remote.
+But should they turn, and should ourselves be driven
+Back from the fleet impeded and perplex’d
+In this deep foss, I judge that not a man,90
+’Scaping the rallied Grecians, should survive
+To bear the tidings of our fate to Troy.
+Now, therefore, act we all as I advise.
+Let every charioteer his coursers hold
+Fast-rein’d beside the foss, while we on foot,95
+With order undisturb’d and arms in hand,
+Shall follow Hector. If destruction borne
+On wings of destiny this day approach
+The Grecians, they will fly our first assault.
+  So spake Polydamas, whose safe advice100
+Pleased Hector; from his chariot to the ground
+All arm’d he leap’d, nor would a Trojan there
+(When once they saw the Hero on his feet)
+Ride into battle, but unanimous
+Descending with a leap, all trod the plain.105
+Each gave command that at the trench his steeds
+Should stand detain’d in orderly array;
+Then, suddenly, the parted host became
+Five bands, each following its appointed chief.
+The bravest and most numerous, and whose hearts110
+Wish’d most to burst the barrier and to wage
+The battle at the ships, with Hector march’d
+And with Polydamas, whom follow’d, third,
+Cebriones; for Hector had his steeds
+Consign’d and chariot to inferior care.115
+Paris, Alcathoüs, and Agenor led
+The second band, and, sons of Priam both,
+Deïphobus and Helenus, the third;
+With them was seen partner of their command;
+The Hero Asius; from Arisba came120
+Asius Hyrtacides, to battle drawn
+From the Selleïs banks by martial steeds
+Hair’d fiery-red and of the noblest size.
+The fourth, Anchises’ mighty son controll’d,
+Æneas; under him Antenor’s sons,125
+Archilochus and Acamas, advanced,
+Adept in all the practice of the field.
+Last came the glorious powers in league with Troy
+Led by Sarpedon; he with Glaucus shared
+His high control, and with the warlike Chief130
+Asteropæus; for of all his host
+Them bravest he esteem’d, himself except
+Superior in heroic might to all.
+And now (their shields adjusted each to each)
+With dauntless courage fired, right on they moved135
+Against the Grecians; nor expected less
+Than that beside their sable ships, the host
+Should self-abandon’d fall an easy prey.
+  The Trojans, thus with their confederate powers,
+The counsel of the accomplish’d Prince pursued,140
+Polydamas, one Chief alone except,
+Asius Hyrtacides. He scorn’d to leave
+His charioteer and coursers at the trench,
+And drove toward the fleet. Ah, madly brave!
+His evil hour was come; he was ordain’d145
+With horse and chariot and triumphant shout
+To enter wind-swept Ilium never more.
+Deucalion’s offspring, first, into the shades
+Dismiss’d him; by Idomeneus he died.
+Leftward he drove furious, along the road150
+By which the steeds and chariots of the Greeks
+Return’d from battle; in that track he flew,
+Nor found the portals by the massy bar
+Secured, but open for reception safe
+Of fugitives, and to a guard consign’d.155
+Thither he drove direct, and in his rear
+His band shrill-shouting follow’d, for they judged
+The Greeks no longer able to withstand
+Their foes, but sure to perish in the camp.
+Vain hope! for in the gate two Chiefs they found160
+Lapithæ-born, courageous offspring each
+Of dauntless father; Polypœtes, this,
+Sprung from Pirithöus; that, the warrior bold
+Leonteus, terrible as gore-tainted Mars.
+These two, defenders of the lofty gates,165
+Stood firm before them. As when two tall oaks
+On the high mountains day by day endure
+Rough wind and rain, by deep-descending roots
+Of hugest growth fast-founded in the soil;
+So they, sustain’d by conscious valor, saw,170
+Unmoved, high towering Asius on his way,
+Nor fear’d him aught, nor shrank from his approach
+Right on toward the barrier, lifting high
+Their season’d bucklers and with clamor loud
+The band advanced, King Asius at their head,175
+With whom Iämenus, expert in arms,
+Orestes, Thöon, Acamas the son
+Of Asius, and Oenomäus, led them on.
+Till now, the warlike pair, exhorting loud
+The Grecians to defend the fleet, had stood180
+Within the gates; but soon as they perceived
+The Trojans swift advancing to the wall,
+And heard a cry from all the flying Greeks,
+Both sallying, before the gates they fought
+Like forest-boars, which hearing in the hills185
+The crash of hounds and huntsmen nigh at hand,
+With start oblique lay many a sapling flat
+Short-broken by the root, nor cease to grind
+Their sounding tusks, till by the spear they die;
+So sounded on the breasts of those brave two190
+The smitten brass; for resolute they fought,
+Embolden’d by their might who kept the wall,
+And trusting in their own; they, in defence
+Of camp and fleet and life, thick battery hurl’d
+Of stones precipitated from the towers;195
+Frequent as snows they fell, which stormy winds,
+Driving the gloomy clouds, shake to the ground,
+Till all the fertile earth lies cover’d deep.
+Such volley pour’d the Greeks, and such return’d
+The Trojans; casques of hide, arid and tough,200
+And bossy shields rattled, by such a storm
+Assail’d of millstone masses from above.
+Then Asius, son of Hyrtacus, a groan
+Indignant utter’d; on both thighs he smote
+With disappointment furious, and exclaim’d,205
+  Jupiter! even thou art false become,
+And altogether such. Full sure I deem’d
+That not a Grecian hero should abide
+One moment force invincible as ours,
+And lo! as wasps ring-streaked,[1] or bees that build210
+Their dwellings in the highway’s craggy side
+Leave not their hollow home, but fearless wait
+The hunter’s coming, in their brood’s defence,
+So these, although two only, from the gates
+Move not, nor will, till either seized or slain.215
+  So Asius spake, but speaking so, changed not
+The mind of Jove on Hector’s glory bent.
+Others, as obstinate, at other gates
+Such deeds perform’d, that to enumerate all
+Were difficult, unless to power divine.220
+For fierce the hail of stones from end to end
+Smote on the barrier; anguish fill’d the Greeks.
+Yet, by necessity constrain’d, their ships
+They guarded still; nor less the Gods themselves,
+Patrons of Greece, all sorrow’d at the sight.225
+  At once the valiant Lapithæ began
+Terrible conflict, and Pirithous’ son
+Brave Polypœtes through his helmet pierced
+Damasus; his resplendent point the brass
+Sufficed not to withstand; entering, it crush’d230
+The bone within, and mingling all his brain
+With his own blood, his onset fierce repress’d.
+Pylon and Ormenus he next subdued.
+Meantime Leonteus, branch of Mars, his spear
+Hurl’d at Hippomachus, whom through his belt235
+He pierced; then drawing forth his falchion keen,
+Through all the multitude he flew to smite
+Antiphates, and with a downright stroke
+Fell’d him. Iämenus and Menon next
+He slew, with brave Orestes, whom he heap’d,240
+All three together, on the fertile glebe.
+  While them the Lapithæ of their bright arms
+Despoil’d, Polydamas and Hector stood
+(With all the bravest youths and most resolved
+To burst the barrier and to fire the fleet)245
+Beside the foss, pondering the event.
+For, while they press’d to pass, they spied a bird
+Sublime in air, an eagle. Right between
+Both hosts he soar’d (the Trojan on his left)
+A serpent bearing in his pounces clutch’d250
+Enormous, dripping blood, but lively still
+And mindful of revenge; for from beneath
+The eagle’s breast, updarting fierce his head,
+Fast by the throat he struck him; anguish-sick
+The eagle cast him down into the space255
+Between the hosts, and, clanging loud his plumes
+As the wind bore him, floated far away.
+Shudder’d the Trojans viewing at their feet
+The spotted serpent ominous, and thus
+Polydamas to dauntless Hector spake.260
+  Ofttimes in council, Hector, thou art wont
+To censure me, although advising well;
+Nor ought the private citizen, I confess,
+Either in council or in war to indulge
+Loquacity, but ever to employ265
+All his exertions in support of thine.
+Yet hear my best opinion once again.
+Proceed we not in our attempt against
+The Grecian fleet. For if in truth the sign
+Respect the host of Troy ardent to pass,270
+Then, as the eagle soar’d both hosts between,
+With Ilium’s on his left, and clutch’d a snake
+Enormous, dripping blood, but still alive,
+Which yet he dropp’d suddenly, ere he reach’d
+His eyry, or could give it to his young,275
+So we, although with mighty force we burst
+Both gates and barrier, and although the Greeks
+Should all retire, shall never yet the way
+Tread honorably back by which we came.
+No. Many a Trojan shall we leave behind280
+Slain by the Grecians in their fleet’s defence.
+An augur skill’d in omens would expound
+This omen thus, and faith would win from all.
+  To whom, dark-louring, Hector thus replied.
+Polydamas! I like not thy advice;285
+Thou couldst have framed far better; but if this
+Be thy deliberate judgment, then the Gods
+Make thy deliberate judgment nothing worth,
+Who bidd’st me disregard the Thunderer’s[2] firm
+Assurance to myself announced, and make290
+The wild inhabitants of air my guides,
+Which I alike despise, speed they their course
+With right-hand flight toward the ruddy East,
+Or leftward down into the shades of eve.
+Consider _we_ the will of Jove alone,295
+Sovereign of heaven and earth. Omens abound,
+But the best omen is our country’s cause.[3]
+Wherefore should fiery war _thy_ soul alarm?
+For were we slaughter’d, one and all, around
+The fleet of Greece, _thou_ need’st not fear to die,300
+Whose courage never will thy flight retard.
+But if thou shrink thyself, or by smooth speech
+Seduce one other from a soldier’s part,
+Pierced by this spear incontinent thou diest.
+  So saying he led them, who with deafening roar305
+Follow’d him. Then, from the Idæan hills
+Jove hurl’d a storm which wafted right the dust
+Into the fleet; the spirits too he quell’d
+Of the Achaians, and the glory gave
+To Hector and his host; they, trusting firm310
+In signs from Jove, and in their proper force,
+Assay’d the barrier; from the towers they tore
+The galleries, cast the battlements to ground,
+And the projecting buttresses adjoin’d
+To strengthen the vast work, with bars upheaved.315
+All these, with expectation fierce to break
+The rampart, down they drew; nor yet the Greeks
+Gave back, but fencing close with shields the wall,
+Smote from behind them many a foe beneath.
+Meantime from tower to tower the Ajaces moved320
+Exhorting all; with mildness some, and some
+With harsh rebuke, whom they observed through fear
+Declining base the labors of the fight,
+  Friends! Argives! warriors of whatever rank!
+Ye who excel, and ye of humbler note!325
+And ye the last and least! (for such there are,
+All have not magnanimity alike)
+Now have we work for all, as all perceive.
+Turn not, retreat not to your ships, appall’d
+By sounding menaces, but press the foe;330
+Exhort each other, and e’en now perchance
+Olympian Jove, by whom the lightnings burn,
+Shall grant us to repulse them, and to chase
+The routed Trojans to their gates again.
+  So they vociferating to the Greeks,335
+Stirr’d them to battle. As the feathery snows
+Fall frequent, on some wintry day, when Jove
+Hath risen to shed them on the race of man,
+And show his arrowy stores; he lulls the winds,
+Then shakes them down continual, covering thick340
+Mountain tops, promontories, flowery meads,
+And cultured valleys rich; the ports and shores
+Receive it also of the hoary deep,
+But there the waves bound it, while all beside
+Lies whelm’d beneath Jove’s fast-descending shower,345
+So thick, from side to side, by Trojans hurl’d
+Against the Greeks, and by the Greeks return’d
+The stony vollies flew; resounding loud
+Through all its length the battered rampart roar’d.
+Nor yet had Hector and his host prevail’d350
+To burst the gates, and break the massy bar,
+Had not all-seeing Jove Sarpedon moved
+His son, against the Greeks, furious as falls
+The lion on some horned herd of beeves.
+At once his polish’d buckler he advanced355
+With leafy brass o’erlaid; for with smooth brass
+The forger of that shield its oval disk
+Had plated, and with thickest hides throughout
+Had lined it, stitch’d with circling wires of gold.
+That shield he bore before him; firmly grasp’d360
+He shook two spears, and with determined strides
+March’d forward. As the lion mountain-bred,
+After long fast, by impulse of his heart
+Undaunted urged, seeks resolute the flock
+Even in the shelter of their guarded home;365
+He finds, perchance, the shepherds arm’d with spears,
+And all their dogs awake, yet can not leave
+Untried the fence, but either leaps it light,
+And entering tears the prey, or in the attempt
+Pierced by some dexterous peasant, bleeds himself;370
+So high his courage to the assault impell’d
+Godlike Sarpedon, and him fired with hope
+To break the barrier; when to Glaucus thus,
+Son of Hippolochus, his speech he turn’d.
+  Why, Glaucus, is the seat of honor ours,375
+Why drink we brimming cups, and feast in state?
+Why gaze they all on us as we were Gods
+In Lycia, and why share we pleasant fields
+And spacious vineyards, where the Xanthus winds?
+Distinguished thus in Lycia, we are call’d380
+To firmness here, and to encounter bold
+The burning battle, that our fair report
+Among the Lycians may be blazon’d thus—
+No dastards are the potentates who rule
+The bright-arm’d Lycians; on the fatted flock385
+They banquet, and they drink the richest wines;
+But they are also valiant, and the fight
+Wage dauntless in the vanward of us all.
+Oh Glaucus, if escaping safe the death
+That threats us here, we also could escape390
+Old age, and to ourselves secure a life
+Immortal, I would neither in the van
+Myself expose, nor would encourage thee
+To tempt the perils of the glorious field.
+But since a thousand messengers of fate395
+Pursue us close, and man is born to die—
+E’en let us on; the prize of glory yield,
+If yield we must, or wrest it from the foe.
+  He said, nor cold refusal in return
+Received from Glaucus, but toward the wall400
+Their numerous Lycian host both led direct.
+Menestheus, son of Peteos, saw appall’d
+Their dread approach, for to his tower they bent;
+Their threatening march. An eager look he cast,
+On the embodied Greeks, seeking some Chief405
+Whose aid might turn the battle from his van:
+He saw, where never sated with exploits
+Of war, each Ajax fought, near whom his eye
+Kenn’d Teucer also, newly from his tent;
+But vain his efforts were with loudest call410
+To reach their ears, such was the deafening din
+Upsent to heaven, of shields and crested helms,
+And of the batter’d gates; for at each gate
+They thundering stood, and urged alike at each
+Their fierce attempt by force to burst the bars.415
+To Ajax therefore he at once dispatch’d
+A herald, and Thöotes thus enjoin’d.
+  My noble friend, Thöotes! with all speed
+Call either Ajax; bid them hither both;
+Far better so; for havoc is at hand.420
+The Lycian leaders, ever in assault
+Tempestuous, bend their force against this tower
+My station. But if also there they find
+Laborious conflict pressing them severe,
+At least let Telamonian Ajax come,425
+And Teucer with his death-dispensing bow.
+  He spake, nor was Thöotes slow to hear;
+Beside the rampart of the mail-clad Greeks
+Rapid he flew, and, at their side arrived,
+To either Ajax, eager, thus began.430
+  Ye leaders of the well-appointed Greeks,
+The son of noble Peteos calls; he begs
+With instant suit, that ye would share his toils,
+However short your stay; the aid of both
+Will serve him best, for havoc threatens there435
+The Lycian leaders, ever in assault
+Tempestuous, bend their force toward the tower
+His station. But if also here ye find
+Laborious conflict pressing you severe,
+At least let Telamonian Ajax come,440
+And Teucer with his death-dispensing bow.
+  He spake, nor his request the towering son
+Of Telamon denied, but quick his speech
+To Ajax Oïliades address’d.
+  Ajax! abiding here, exhort ye both445
+(Heroic Lycomedes and thyself)
+The Greeks to battle. Thither I depart
+To aid our friends, which service once perform’d
+Duly, I will incontinent return.
+  So saying, the Telamonian Chief withdrew450
+With whom went Teucer, son of the same sire,
+Pandion also, bearing Teucer’s bow.
+Arriving at the turret given in charge
+To the bold Chief Menestheus, and the wall
+Entering, they found their friends all sharply tried.455
+Black as a storm the senators renown’d
+And leaders of the Lycian host assail’d
+Buttress and tower, while opposite the Greeks
+Withstood them, and the battle-shout began.
+First, Ajax, son of Telamon, a friend460
+And fellow-warrior of Sarpedon slew,
+Epicles. With a marble fragment huge
+That crown’d the battlement’s interior side,
+He smote him. No man of our puny race,
+Although in prime of youth, had with both hands465
+That weight sustain’d; but he the cumberous mass
+Uplifted high, and hurl’d it on his head.
+It burst his helmet, and his batter’d skull
+Dash’d from all form. He from the lofty tower
+Dropp’d downright, with a diver’s plunge, and died.470
+But Teucer wounded Glaucus with a shaft
+Son of Hippolochus; he, climbing, bared
+His arm, which Teucer, marking, from the wall
+Transfix’d it, and his onset fierce repress’d;
+For with a backward leap Glaucus withdrew475
+Sudden and silent, cautious lest the Greeks
+Seeing him wounded should insult his pain.
+Grief seized, at sight of his retiring friend,
+Sarpedon, who forgat not yet the fight,
+But piercing with his lance Alcmaon, son480
+Of Thestor, suddenly reversed the beam,
+Which following, Alcmaon to the earth
+Fell prone, with clangor of his brazen arms.
+Sarpedon, then, strenuous with both hands
+Tugg’d, and down fell the battlement entire;485
+The wall, dismantled at the summit, stood
+A ruin, and wide chasm was open’d through.
+Then Ajax him and Teucer at one time
+Struck both; an arrow struck from Teucer’s bow
+The belt that cross’d his bosom, by which hung490
+His ample shield; yet lest his son should fall
+Among the ships, Jove turn’d the death aside.
+But Ajax, springing to his thrust, a spear
+Drove through his shield. Sarpedon at the shock
+With backward step short interval recoil’d,495
+But not retired, for in his bosom lived
+The hope of glory still, and, looking back
+On all his godlike Lycians, he exclaim’d,
+  Oh Lycians! where is your heroic might?
+Brave as I boast myself, I feel the task500
+Arduous, through the breach made by myself
+To win a passage to the ships, alone.
+Follow me all—Most laborers, most dispatch.[4]
+  So he; at whose sharp reprimand abash’d
+The embattled host to closer conflict moved,505
+Obedient to their counsellor and King.
+On the other side the Greeks within the wall
+Made firm the phalanx, seeing urgent need;
+Nor could the valiant Lycians through the breach
+Admittance to the Grecian fleet obtain,510
+Nor since they first approach’d it, had the Greeks
+With all their efforts, thrust the Lycians back.
+But as two claimants of one common field,
+Each with his rod of measurement in hand,
+Dispute the boundaries, litigating warm515
+Their right in some small portion of the soil,
+So they, divided by the barrier, struck
+With hostile rage the bull-hide bucklers round,
+And the light targets on each other’s breast.
+Then many a wound the ruthless weapons made.520
+Pierced through the unarm’d back, if any turn’d,
+He died, and numerous even through the shield.
+The battlements from end to end with blood
+Of Grecians and of Trojans on both sides
+Were sprinkled; yet no violence could move525
+The stubborn Greeks, or turn their powers to flight.
+So hung the war in balance, as the scales
+Held by some woman scrupulously just,
+A spinner; wool and weight she poises nice,
+Hard-earning slender pittance for her babes,[5]530
+Such was the poise in which the battle hung
+Till Jove himself superior fame, at length,
+To Priamëian Hector gave, who sprang
+First through the wall. In lofty sounds that reach’d
+Their utmost ranks, he call’d on all his host.535
+  Now press them, now ye Trojans steed-renown’d
+Rush on! break through the Grecian rampart, hurl
+At once devouring flames into the fleet.
+Such was his exhortation; they his voice
+All hearing, with close-order’d ranks direct540
+Bore on the barrier, and up-swarming show’d
+On the high battlement their glittering spears.
+But Hector seized a stone; of ample base
+But tapering to a point, before the gate
+It stood. No two men, mightiest of a land545
+(Such men as now are mighty) could with ease
+Have heaved it from the earth up to a wain;
+He swung it easily alone; so light
+The son of Saturn made it in his hand.
+As in one hand with ease the shepherd bears550
+A ram’s fleece home, nor toils beneath the weight,
+So Hector, right toward the planks of those
+Majestic folding-gates, close-jointed, firm
+And solid, bore the stone. Two bars within
+Their corresponding force combined transvere555
+To guard them, and one bolt secured the bars.
+He stood fast by them, parting wide his feet
+For ’vantage sake, and smote them in the midst.
+He burst both hinges; inward fell the rock
+Ponderous, and the portals roar’d; the bars560
+Endured not, and the planks, riven by the force
+Of that huge mass, flew scatter’d on all sides.
+In leap’d the godlike Hero at the breach,
+Gloomy as night in aspect, but in arms
+All-dazzling, and he grasp’d two quivering spears.565
+Him entering with a leap the gates, no force
+Whate’er of opposition had repress’d,
+Save of the Gods alone. Fire fill’d his eyes;
+Turning, he bade the multitude without
+Ascend the rampart; they his voice obey’d;570
+Part climb’d the wall, part pour’d into the gate;
+The Grecians to their hollow galleys flew
+Scatter’d, and tumult infinite arose.[6]
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XIII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE THIRTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Neptune engages on the part of the Grecians. The battle proceeds.
+Deiphobus advances to combat, but is repulsed by Meriones, who losing
+his spear, repairs to his tent for another. Teucer slays Imbrius, and
+Hector Amphimachus. Neptune, under the similitude of Thoas, exhorts
+Idomeneus. Idomeneus having armed himself in his tent, and going forth
+to battle, meets Meriones. After discourse held with each other,
+Idomeneus accommodates Meriones with a spear, and they proceed to
+battle. Idomeneus slays Othryoneus, and Asius. Deiphobus assails
+Idomeneus, but, his spear glancing over him, kills Hypsenor. Idomeneus
+slays Alcathoüs, son-in-law of Anchises. Deiphobus and Idomeneus
+respectively summon their friends to their assistance, and a contest
+ensues for the body of Alcathoüs.
+
+
+BOOK XIII.
+
+
+[1]When Jove to Hector and his host had given
+Such entrance to the fleet, to all the woes
+And toils of unremitting battle there
+He them abandon’d, and his glorious eyes
+Averting, on the land look’d down remote5
+Of the horse-breeding Thracians, of the bold
+Close-fighting Mysian race, and where abide
+On milk sustain’d, and blest with length of days,
+The Hippemolgi,[2] justest of mankind.
+No longer now on Troy his eyes he turn’d,10
+For expectation none within his breast
+Survived, that God or Goddess would the Greeks
+Approach with succor, or the Trojans more.
+  Nor Neptune, sovereign of the boundless Deep,
+Look’d forth in vain; he on the summit sat15
+Of Samothracia forest-crown’d, the stir
+Admiring thence and tempest of the field;
+For thence appear’d all Ida, thence the towers
+Of lofty Ilium, and the fleet of Greece.
+There sitting from the deeps uprisen, he mourn’d20
+The vanquished Grecians, and resentment fierce
+Conceived and wrath against all-ruling Jove.
+Arising sudden, down the rugged steep
+With rapid strides he came; the mountains huge
+And forests under the immortal feet25
+Trembled of Ocean’s Sovereign as he strode.
+Three strides he made, the fourth convey’d him home
+To Ægæ. At the bottom of the abyss,
+There stands magnificent his golden fane,
+A dazzling, incorruptible abode.30
+Arrived, he to his chariot join’d his steeds
+Swift, brazen-hoof’d, and maned with wavy gold;
+Himself attiring next in gold, he seized
+His golden scourge, and to his seat sublime
+Ascending, o’er the billows drove; the whales35
+Leaving their caverns, gambol’d on all sides
+Around him, not unconscious of their King;
+He swept the surge that tinged not as he pass’d
+His axle, and the sea parted for joy.
+His bounding coursers to the Grecian fleet40
+Convey’d him swift. There is a spacious cave
+Deep in the bottom of the flood, the rocks
+Of Imbrus rude and Tenedos between;
+There Neptune, Shaker of the Shores, his steeds
+Station’d secure; he loosed them from the yoke,45
+Gave them ambrosial food, and bound their feet
+With golden tethers not to be untied
+Or broken, that unwandering they might wait
+Their Lord’s return, then sought the Grecian host.
+The Trojans, tempest-like or like a flame,50
+Now, following Priameïan Hector, all
+Came furious on and shouting to the skies.
+Their hope was to possess the fleet, and leave
+Not an Achaian of the host unslain.
+But earth-encircler Neptune from the gulf55
+Emerging, in the form and with the voice
+Loud-toned of Calchas, roused the Argive ranks
+To battle—and his exhortation first
+To either Ajax turn’d, themselves prepared.
+  Ye heroes Ajax! your accustomed force60
+Exert, oh! think not of disastrous flight,
+And ye shall save the people. Nought I fear
+Fatal elsewhere, although Troy’s haughty sons
+Have pass’d the barrier with so fierce a throng
+Tumultuous; for the Grecians brazen-greaved65
+Will check them there. Here only I expect
+And with much dread some dire event forebode,
+Where Hector, terrible as fire, and loud
+Vaunting his glorious origin from Jove,
+Leads on the Trojans. Oh that from on high70
+Some God would form the purpose in your hearts
+To stand yourselves firmly, and to exhort
+The rest to stand! so should ye chase him hence
+All ardent as he is, and even although
+Olympian Jove himself his rage inspire.75
+  So Neptune spake, compasser of the earth,
+And, with his sceptre smiting both, their hearts
+Fill’d with fresh fortitude; their limbs the touch
+Made agile, wing’d their feet and nerved their arms.
+Then, swift as stoops a falcon from the point80
+Of some rude rock sublime, when he would chase
+A fowl of other wing along the meads,
+So started Neptune thence, and disappear’d.
+Him, as he went, swift Oïliades
+First recognized, and, instant, thus his speech85
+To Ajax, son of Telamon, address’d.
+  Since, Ajax, some inhabitant of heaven
+Exhorts us, in the prophet’s form to fight
+(For prophet none or augur we have seen;
+This was not Calchas; as he went I mark’d90
+His steps and knew him; Gods are known with ease)
+I feel my spirit in my bosom fired
+Afresh for battle; lightness in my limbs,
+In hands and feet a glow unfelt before.
+  To whom the son of Telamon replied.95
+I also with invigorated hands
+More firmly grasp my spear; my courage mounts,
+A buoyant animation in my feet
+Bears me along, and I am all on fire
+To cope with Priam’s furious son, alone.100
+  Thus they, with martial transport to their souls
+Imparted by the God, conferr’d elate.
+Meantime the King of Ocean roused the Greeks,
+Who in the rear, beside their gallant barks
+Some respite sought. They, spent with arduous toil,105
+Felt not alone their weary limbs unapt
+To battle, but their hearts with grief oppress’d,
+Seeing the numerous multitude of Troy
+Within the mighty barrier; sad they view’d
+That sight, and bathed their cheeks with many a tear,110
+Despairing of escape. But Ocean’s Lord
+Entering among them, soon the spirit stirr’d
+Of every valiant phalanx to the fight.
+Teucer and Leïtus, and famed in arms
+Peneleus, Thoas and Deipyrus,115
+Meriones, and his compeer renown’d,
+Antilochus; all these in accents wing’d
+With fierce alacrity the God address’d.
+  Oh shame, ye Grecians! vigorous as ye are
+And in life’s prime, to your exertions most120
+I trusted for the safety of our ships.
+If _ye_ renounce the labors of the field,
+Then hath the day arisen of our defeat
+And final ruin by the powers of Troy.
+Oh! I behold a prodigy, a sight125
+Tremendous, deem’d impossible by me,
+The Trojans at our ships! the dastard race
+Fled once like fleetest hinds the destined prey
+Of lynxes, leopards, wolves; feeble and slight
+And of a nature indisposed to war130
+They rove uncertain; so the Trojans erst
+Stood not, nor to Achaian prowess dared
+The hindrance of a moment’s strife oppose.
+But now, Troy left afar, even at our ships
+They give us battle, through our leader’s fault135
+And through the people’s negligence, who fill’d
+With fierce displeasure against _him_, prefer
+Death at their ships, to war in their defence.
+But if the son of Atreus, our supreme,
+If Agamemnon, have indeed transgress’d140
+Past all excuse, dishonoring the swift
+Achilles, ye at least the fight decline
+Blame-worthy, and with no sufficient plea.
+But heal we speedily the breach; brave minds
+Easily coalesce. It is not well145
+That thus your fury slumbers, for the host
+Hath none illustrious as yourselves in arms.
+I can excuse the timid if he shrink,
+But am incensed at _you_. My friends, beware!
+Your tardiness will prove ere long the cause150
+Of some worse evil. Let the dread of shame
+Affect your hearts; oh tremble at the thought
+Of infamy! Fierce conflict hath arisen;
+Loud shouting Hector combats at the ships
+Nobly, hath forced the gates and burst the bar.155
+  With such encouragement those Grecian chiefs
+The King of Ocean roused. Then, circled soon
+By many a phalanx either Ajax stood,
+Whose order Mars himself arriving there
+Had praised, or Pallas, patroness of arms.160
+For there the flower of all expected firm
+Bold Hector and his host; spear crowded spear,
+Shield, helmet, man, press’d helmet, man and shield;[3]
+The hairy crests of their resplendent casques
+Kiss’d close at every nod, so wedged they stood;165
+No spear was seen but in the manly grasp
+It quiver’d, and their every wish was war.
+The powers of Ilium gave the first assault
+Embattled close; them Hector led himself[4]
+Right on, impetuous as a rolling rock170
+Destructive; torn by torrent waters off
+From its old lodgment on the mountain’s brow,
+It bounds, it shoots away; the crashing wood
+Falls under it; impediment or check
+None stays its fury, till the level found,175
+There, settling by degrees, it rolls no more;
+So after many a threat that he would pass
+Easily through the Grecian camp and fleet
+And slay to the sea-brink, when Hector once
+Had fallen on those firm ranks, standing, he bore180
+Vehement on them; but by many a spear
+Urged and bright falchion, soon, reeling, retired,
+And call’d vociferous on the host of Troy.
+  Trojans, and Lycians, and close-fighting sons
+Of Dardanus, oh stand! not long the Greeks185
+Will me confront, although embodied close
+In solid phalanx; doubt it not; my spear
+Shall chase and scatter them, if Jove, in truth,
+High-thundering mate of Juno, bid me on.
+  So saying he roused the courage of them all190
+Foremost of whom advanced, of Priam’s race
+Deiphobus, ambitious of renown.
+Tripping he came with shorten’d steps,[5] his feet
+Sheltering behind his buckler; but at him
+Aiming, Meriones his splendid lance195
+Dismiss’d, nor err’d; his bull-hide targe he struck
+But ineffectual; where the hollow wood
+Receives the inserted brass, the quivering beam
+Snapp’d; then, Deiphobus his shield afar
+Advanced before him, trembling at a spear200
+Hurl’d by Meriones. He, moved alike
+With indignation for the victory lost
+And for his broken spear, into his band
+At first retired, but soon set forth again
+In prowess through the Achaian camp, to fetch205
+Its fellow-spear within his tent reserved.
+  The rest all fought, and dread the shouts arose
+On all sides. Telamonian Teucer, first,
+Slew valiant Imbrius, son of Mentor, rich
+In herds of sprightly steeds. He ere the Greeks210
+Arrived at Ilium, in Pedæus dwelt,
+And Priam’s spurious daughter had espoused
+Medesicasta. But the barks well-oar’d
+Of Greece arriving, he return’d to Troy,
+Where he excell’d the noblest, and abode215
+With Priam, loved and honor’d as his own.
+Him Teucer pierced beneath his ear, and pluck’d
+His weapon home; he fell as falls an ash
+Which on some mountain visible afar,
+Hewn from its bottom by the woodman’s axe,220
+With all its tender foliage meets the ground
+So Imbrius fell; loud rang his armor bright
+With ornamental brass, and Teucer flew
+To seize his arms, whom hasting to the spoil
+Hector with his resplendent spear assail’d;225
+He, marking opposite its rapid flight,
+Declined it narrowly and it pierced the breast,
+As he advanced to battle, of the son
+Of Cteatus of the Actorian race,
+Amphimachus; he, sounding, smote the plain,230
+And all his batter’d armor rang aloud.
+Then Hector swift approaching, would have torn
+The well-forged helmet from the brows away
+Of brave Amphimachus; but Ajax hurl’d
+Right forth at Hector hasting to the spoil235
+His radiant spear; no wound the spear impress’d,
+For he was arm’d complete in burnish’d brass
+Terrific; but the solid boss it pierced
+Of Hector’s shield, and with enormous force
+So shock’d him, that retiring he resign’d240
+Both bodies,[6] which the Grecians dragg’d away.
+Stichius and Menestheus, leaders both
+Of the Athenians, to the host of Greece
+Bore off Amphimachus, and, fierce in arms
+The Ajaces, Imbrius. As two lions bear245
+Through thick entanglement of boughs and brakes
+A goat snatch’d newly from the peasants’ cogs,
+Upholding high their prey above the ground,
+So either Ajax terrible in fight,
+Upholding Imbrius high, his brazen arms250
+Tore off, and Oïliades his head
+From his smooth neck dissevering in revenge
+For slain Amphimachus, through all the host
+Sent it with swift rotation like a globe,
+Till in the dust at Hector’s feet it fell.255
+  Then anger fill’d the heart of Ocean’s King,
+His grandson[7] slain in battle; forth he pass’d
+Through the Achaian camp and fleet, the Greeks
+Rousing, and meditating wo to Troy.
+It chanced that brave Idomeneus return’d260
+That moment from a Cretan at the knee
+Wounded, and newly borne into his tent;
+His friends had borne him off, and when the Chief
+Had given him into skilful hands, he sought
+The field again, still coveting renown.265
+Him therefore, meeting him on his return,
+Neptune bespake, but with the borrow’d voice
+Of Thoas, offspring of Andræmon, King
+In Pleuro and in lofty Calydon,
+And honor’d by the Ætolians as a God.270
+  Oh counsellor of Crete! our threats denounced
+Against the towers of Troy, where are they now?
+  To whom the leader of the Cretans, thus,
+Idomeneus. For aught that I perceive
+Thoas! no Grecian is this day in fault!275
+For we are all intelligent in arms,
+None yields by fear oppress’d, none lull’d by sloth
+From battle shrinks; but such the pleasure seems
+Of Jove himself, that we should perish here
+Inglorious, from our country far remote280
+But, Thoas! (for thine heart was ever firm
+In battle, and thyself art wont to rouse
+Whom thou observ’st remiss) now also fight
+As erst, and urge each leader of the host.
+  Him answered, then, the Sovereign of the Deep.285
+Return that Grecian never from the shores
+Of Troy, Idomeneus! but may the dogs
+Feast on him, who shall this day intermit
+Through wilful negligence his force in fight!
+But haste, take arms and come; we must exert290
+All diligence, that, being only two,
+We yet may yield some service. Union much
+Emboldens even the weakest, and our might
+Hath oft been proved on warriors of renown.
+  So Neptune spake, and, turning, sought again295
+The toilsome field. Ere long, Idomeneus
+Arriving in his spacious tent, put on
+His radiant armor, and, two spears in hand,
+Set forth like lightning which Saturnian Jove
+From bright Olympus shakes into the air,300
+A sign to mortal men, dazzling all eyes;
+So beam’d the Hero’s armor as he ran.
+But him not yet far distant from his tent
+Meriones, his fellow-warrior met,
+For he had left the fight, seeking a spear,305
+When thus the brave Idomeneus began.
+  Swift son of Molus! chosen companion dear!
+Wherefore, Meriones, hast thou the field
+Abandon’d? Art thou wounded? Bring’st thou home
+Some pointed mischief in thy flesh infixt?310
+Or comest thou sent to me, who of myself
+The still tent covet not, but feats of arms?
+  To whom Meriones discreet replied,
+Chief leader of the Cretans, brazen-mail’d
+Idomeneus! if yet there be a spear315
+Left in thy tent, I seek one; for I broke
+The spear, even now, with which erewhile I fought,
+Smiting the shield of fierce Deiphobus.
+  Then answer thus the Cretan Chief return’d,
+Valiant Idomeneus. If spears thou need,320
+Within my tent, leaning against the wall,
+Stand twenty spears and one, forged all in Troy,
+Which from the slain I took; for distant fight
+Me suits not; therefore in my tent have I
+Both spears and bossy shields, with brazen casques325
+And corselets bright that smile against the sun.
+  Him answer’d, then, Meriones discreet.
+I also, at my tent and in my ship
+Have many Trojan spoils, but they are hence
+Far distant. I not less myself than thou330
+Am ever mindful of a warrior’s part,
+And when the din of glorious arms is heard,
+Fight in the van. If other Greeks my deeds
+Know not, at least I judge them known to thee.
+  To whom the leader of the host of Crete335
+Idomeneus. I know thy valor well,
+Why speakest thus to me? Choose we this day
+An ambush forth of all the bravest Greeks,
+(For in the ambush is distinguish’d best
+The courage; there the timorous and the bold340
+Plainly appear; the dastard changes hue
+And shifts from place to place, nor can he calm
+The fears that shake his trembling limbs, but sits
+Low-crouching on his hams, while in his breast
+Quick palpitates his death-foreboding heart,345
+And his teeth chatter; but the valiant man
+His posture shifts not; no excessive fears
+Feels he, but seated once in ambush, deems
+Time tedious till the bloody fight begin;)
+Even there, thy courage should no blame incur.[8]350
+For should’st thou, toiling in the fight, by spear
+Or falchion bleed, not on thy neck behind
+Would fall the weapon, or thy back annoy,
+But it would meet thy bowels or thy chest
+While thou didst rush into the clamorous van.355
+But haste—we may not longer loiter here
+As children prating, lest some sharp rebuke
+Reward us. Enter quick, and from within
+My tent provide thee with a noble spear.
+  Then, swift as Mars, Meriones produced360
+A brazen spear of those within the tent
+Reserved, and kindling with heroic fire
+Follow’d Idomeneus. As gory Mars
+By Terror follow’d, his own dauntless son
+Who quells the boldest heart, to battle moves;365
+From Thrace against the Ephyri they arm,
+Or hardy Phlegyans, and by both invoked,
+Hear and grant victory to which they please;
+Such, bright in arms Meriones, and such
+Idomeneus advanced, when foremost thus370
+Meriones his fellow-chief bespake.
+  Son of Deucalion! where inclinest thou most
+To enter into battle? On the right
+Of all the host? or through the central ranks?
+Or on the left? for nowhere I account375
+The Greeks so destitute of force as there.
+  Then answer thus Idomeneus return’d
+Chief of the Cretans. Others stand to guard
+The middle fleet; there either Ajax wars,
+And Teucer, noblest archer of the Greeks,380
+Nor less in stationary fight approved.
+Bent as he is on battle, they will task
+And urge to proof sufficiently the force
+Of Priameïan Hector; burn his rage
+How fierce soever, he shall find it hard,385
+With all his thirst of victory, to quell
+Their firm resistance, and to fire the fleet,
+Let not Saturnian Jove cast down from heaven
+Himself a flaming brand into the ships.
+High towering Telamonian Ajax yields390
+To no mere mortal by the common gift
+Sustain’d of Ceres, and whose flesh the spear
+Can penetrate, or rocky fragment bruise;
+In standing fight Ajax would not retire
+Even before that breaker of the ranks395
+Achilles, although far less swift than he.
+But turn we to the left, that we may learn
+At once, if glorious death, or life be ours.
+  Then, rapid as the God of war, his course
+Meriones toward the left began,400
+As he enjoin’d. Soon as the Trojans saw
+Idomeneus advancing like a flame,
+And his compeer Meriones in arms
+All-radiant clad, encouraging aloud
+From rank to rank each other, on they came405
+To the assault combined. Then soon arose
+Sharp contest on the left of all the fleet.
+As when shrill winds blow vehement, what time
+Dust deepest spreads the ways, by warring blasts
+Upborne a sable cloud stands in the air,410
+Such was the sudden conflict; equal rage
+To stain with gore the lance ruled every breast.
+Horrent with quivering spears the fatal field
+Frown’d on all sides; the brazen flashes dread
+Of numerous helmets, corselets furbish’d bright,415
+And shields refulgent meeting, dull’d the eye,
+And turn’d it dark away. Stranger indeed
+Were he to fear, who could that strife have view’d
+With heart elate, or spirit unperturb’d.
+  Two mighty sons of Saturn adverse parts420
+Took in that contest, purposing alike
+To many a valiant Chief sorrow and pain.
+Jove, for the honor of Achilles, gave
+Success to Hector and the host of Troy,
+Not for complete destruction of the Greeks425
+At Ilium, but that glory might redound
+To Thetis thence, and to her dauntless son.
+On the other side, the King of Ocean risen
+Secretly from the hoary Deep, the host
+Of Greece encouraged, whom he grieved to see430
+Vanquish’d by Trojans, and with anger fierce
+Against the Thunderer burn’d on their behalf.
+Alike from one great origin divine
+Sprang they, but Jove was elder, and surpass’d
+In various knowledge; therefore when he roused435
+Their courage, Neptune traversed still the ranks
+Clandestine, and in human form disguised.
+Thus, these Immortal Two, straining the cord
+Indissoluble of all-wasting war,
+Alternate measured with it either host,440
+And loosed the joints of many a warrior bold.
+Then, loud exhorting (though himself with age
+Half grey) the Achaians, into battle sprang
+Idomeneus, and scatter’d, first, the foe,
+Slaying Othryoneus, who, by the lure445
+Of martial glory drawn, had left of late
+Cabesus. He Priam’s fair daughter woo’d
+Cassandra, but no nuptial gift vouchsafed
+To offer, save a sounding promise proud
+To chase, himself, however resolute450
+The Grecian host, and to deliver Troy.
+To him assenting, Priam, ancient King,
+Assured to him his wish, and in the faith
+Of that assurance confident, he fought.
+But brave Idomeneus his splendid lance455
+Well-aim’d dismissing, struck the haughty Chief.
+Pacing elate the field; his brazen mail
+Endured not; through his bowels pierced, with clang
+Of all his arms he fell, and thus with joy
+Immense exulting, spake Idomeneus.460
+  I give thee praise, Othryoneus! beyond
+All mortal men, if truly thou perform
+Thy whole big promise to the Dardan king,
+Who promised thee his daughter. Now, behold,
+We also promise: doubt not the effect.465
+We give into thy arms the most admired
+Of Agamemnon’s daughters, whom ourselves
+Will hither bring from Argos, if thy force
+With ours uniting, thou wilt rase the walls
+Of populous Troy. Come—follow me; that here470
+Among the ships we may adjust the terms
+Of marriage, for we take not scanty dower.
+  So saying, the Hero dragg’d him by his heel
+Through all the furious fight. His death to avenge
+Asius on foot before his steeds advanced,475
+For them, where’er he moved, his charioteer
+Kept breathing ever on his neck behind.
+With fierce desire the heart of Asius burn’d
+To smite Idomeneus, who with his lance
+Him reaching first, pierced him beneath the chin480
+Into his throat, and urged the weapon through.
+He fell, as some green poplar falls, or oak,
+Or lofty pine, by naval artists hewn
+With new-edged axes on the mountain’s side.
+So, his teeth grinding, and the bloody dust485
+Clenching, before his chariot and his steeds
+Extended, Asius lay. His charioteer
+(All recollection lost) sat panic-stunn’d,
+Nor dared for safety turn his steeds to flight.
+Him bold Antilochus right through the waist490
+Transpierced; his mail sufficed not, but the spear
+Implanted in his midmost bowels stood.
+Down from his seat magnificent he fell
+Panting, and young Antilochus the steeds
+Drove captive thence into the host of Greece.495
+Then came Deiphobus by sorrow urged
+For Asius, and, small interval between,
+Hurl’d at Idomeneus his glittering lance;
+But he, foreseeing its approach, the point
+Eluded, cover’d whole by his round shield500
+Of hides and brass by double belt sustain’d,
+And it flew over him, but on his targe
+Glancing, elicited a tinkling sound.
+Yet left it not in vain his vigorous grasp,
+But pierced the liver of Hypsenor, son505
+Of Hippasus; he fell incontinent,
+And measureless exulting in his fall
+Deiphobus with mighty voice exclaim’d.
+  Not unavenged lies Asius; though he seek
+Hell’s iron portals, yet shall he rejoice,510
+For I have given him a conductor home.
+  So he, whose vaunt the Greeks indignant heard!
+But of them all to anger most he roused
+Antilochus, who yet his breathless friend[9]
+Left not, but hasting, fenced him with his shield,515
+And brave Alastor with Mecisteus son
+Of Echius, bore him to the hollow ships
+Deep-groaning both, for of their band was he.
+Nor yet Idomeneus his warlike rage
+Remitted aught, but persevering strove520
+Either to plunge some Trojan in the shades,
+Or fall himself, guarding the fleet of Greece.
+Then slew he brave Alcathoüs the son
+Of Æsyeta, and the son-in-law
+Of old Anchises, who to him had given525
+The eldest-born of all his daughters fair,
+Hippodamia; dearly loved was she
+By both her parents in her virgin state,[10]
+For that in beauty she surpass’d, in works
+Ingenious, and in faculties of mind530
+All her coëvals; wherefore she was deem’d
+Well worthy of the noblest prince of Troy.
+Him in that moment, Neptune by the arm
+Quell’d of Idomeneus, his radiant eyes
+Dimming, and fettering his proportion’d limbs.535
+All power of flight or to elude the stroke
+Forsook him, and while motionless he stood
+As stands a pillar tall or towering oak,
+The hero of the Cretans with a spear
+Transfix’d his middle chest. He split the mail540
+Erewhile his bosom’s faithful guard; shrill rang
+The shiver’d brass; sounding he fell; the beam
+Implanted in his palpitating heart
+Shook to its topmost point, but, its force spent,
+At last, quiescent, stood. Then loud exclaim’d545
+Idomeneus, exulting in his fall.
+  What thinks Deiphobus? seems it to thee
+Vain boaster, that, three warriors slain for one,
+We yield thee just amends? else, stand thyself
+Against me; learn the valor of a Chief550
+The progeny of Jove; Jove first begat
+Crete’s guardian, Minos, from which Minos sprang
+Deucalion, and from famed Deucalion, I;
+I, sovereign of the numerous race of Crete’s
+Extensive isle, and whom my galleys brought555
+To these your shores at last, that I might prove
+Thy curse, thy father’s, and a curse to Troy.
+  He spake; Deiphobus uncertain stood
+Whether, retreating, to engage the help
+Of some heroic Trojan, or himself560
+To make the dread experiment alone.
+At length, as his discreeter course, he chose
+To seek Æneas; him he found afar
+Station’d, remotest of the host of Troy,
+For he resented evermore his worth565
+By Priam[11] recompensed with cold neglect.
+Approaching him, in accents wing’d he said.
+  Æneas! Trojan Chief! If e’er thou lov’dst
+Thy sister’s husband, duty calls thee now
+To prove it. Haste—defend with me the dead570
+Alcathoüs, guardian of thy tender years,
+Slain by Idomeneus the spear-renown’d.
+  So saying, he roused his spirit, and on fire
+To combat with the Cretan, forth he sprang.
+But fear seized not Idomeneus as fear575
+May seize a nursling boy; resolved he stood
+As in the mountains, conscious of his force,
+The wild boar waits a coming multitude
+Of boisterous hunters to his lone retreat;
+Arching his bristly spine he stands, his eyes580
+Beam fire, and whetting his bright tusks, he burns
+To drive, not dogs alone, but men to flight;
+So stood the royal Cretan, and fled not,
+Expecting brave Æneas; yet his friends
+He summon’d, on Ascalaphus his eyes585
+Fastening, on Aphareus, Deipyrus,
+Meriones, and Antilochus, all bold
+In battle, and in accents wing’d exclaim’d.
+  Haste ye, my friends! to aid me, for I stand
+Alone, nor undismay’d the coming wait590
+Of swift Æneas, nor less brave than swift,
+And who possesses fresh his flower of youth,
+Man’s prime advantage; were we match’d in years
+As in our spirits, either he should earn
+At once the meed of deathless fame, or I.595
+  He said; they all unanimous approach’d,
+Sloping their shields, and stood. On the other side
+His aids Æneas call’d, with eyes toward
+Paris, Deiphobus, Agenor, turn’d,
+His fellow-warriors bold; them follow’d all600
+Their people as the pastured flock the ram
+To water, by the shepherd seen with joy;
+Such joy Æneas felt, seeing, so soon,
+That numerous host attendant at his call.
+Then, for Alcathoüs, into contest close605
+Arm’d with long spears they rush’d; on every breast
+Dread rang the brazen corselet, each his foe
+Assailing opposite; but two, the rest
+Surpassing far, terrible both as Mars,
+Æneas and Idomeneus, alike610
+Panted to pierce each other with the spear.
+Æneas, first, cast at Idomeneus,
+But, warn’d, he shunn’d the weapon, and it pass’d.
+Quivering in the soil Æneas’ lance
+Stood, hurl’d in vain, though by a forceful arm.615
+Not so the Cretan; at his waist he pierced
+Oenomaüs, his hollow corselet clave,
+And in his midmost bowels drench’d the spear;
+Down fell the Chief, and dying, clench’d the dust.
+Instant, his massy spear the King of Crete620
+Pluck’d from the dead, but of his radiant arms
+Despoil’d him not, by numerous weapons urged;
+For now, time-worn, he could no longer make
+Brisk sally, spring to follow his own spear,
+Or shun another, or by swift retreat625
+Vanish from battle, but the evil day
+Warded in stationary fight alone.
+At him retiring, therefore, step by step
+Deiphobus, who had with bitterest hate
+Long time pursued him, hurl’d his splendid lance,630
+But yet again erroneous, for he pierced
+Ascalaphus instead, offspring of Mars;
+Right through his shoulder flew the spear; he fell
+Incontinent, and dying, clench’d the dust.
+But tidings none the brazen-throated Mars635
+Tempestuous yet received, that his own son
+In bloody fight had fallen, for on the heights
+Olympian over-arch’d with clouds of gold
+He sat, where sat the other Powers divine,
+Prisoners together of the will of Jove.640
+Meantime, for slain Ascalaphus arose
+Conflict severe; Deiphobus his casque
+Resplendent seized, but swift as fiery Mars
+Assailing him, Meriones his arm
+Pierced with a spear, and from his idle hand645
+Fallen, the casque sonorous struck the ground.
+Again, as darts the vulture on his prey,
+Meriones assailing him, the lance
+Pluck’d from his arm, and to his band retired.
+Then, casting his fraternal arms around650
+Deiphobus, him young Polites led
+From the hoarse battle to his rapid steeds
+And his bright chariot in the distant rear,
+Which bore him back to Troy, languid and loud-
+Groaning, and bleeding from his recent wound.655
+Still raged the war, and infinite arose
+The clamor. Aphareus, Caletor’s son,
+Turning to face Æneas, in his throat
+Instant the hero’s pointed lance received.
+With head reclined, and bearing to the ground660
+Buckler and helmet with him, in dark shades
+Of soul-divorcing death involved, he fell.
+Antilochus, observing Thoön turn’d
+To flight, that moment pierced him; from his back
+He ripp’d the vein which through the trunk its course665
+Winds upward to the neck; that vein he ripp’d
+All forth; supine he fell, and with both hands
+Extended to his fellow-warriors, died.
+Forth sprang Antilochus to strip his arms,
+But watch’d, meantime, the Trojans, who in crowds670
+Encircling him, his splendid buckler broad
+Smote oft, but none with ruthless point prevail’d
+Even to inscribe the skin of Nestor’s son,
+Whom Neptune, shaker of the shores, amid
+Innumerable darts kept still secure.675
+Yet never from his foes he shrank, but faced
+From side to side, nor idle slept his spear,
+But with rotation ceaseless turn’d and turn’d
+To every part, now levell’d at a foe
+Far-distant, at a foe, now, near at hand.680
+Nor he, thus occupied, unseen escaped
+By Asius’ offspring Adamas, who close
+Advancing, struck the centre of his shield.
+But Neptune azure-hair’d so dear a life
+Denied to Adamas, and render’d vain685
+The weapon; part within his disk remain’d
+Like a seer’d stake, and part fell at his feet.
+Then Adamas, for his own life alarm’d,
+Retired, but as he went, Meriones
+Him reaching with his lance, the shame between690
+And navel pierced him, where the stroke of Mars
+Proves painful most to miserable man.
+There enter’d deep the weapon; down he fell,
+And in the dust lay panting as an ox
+Among the mountains pants by peasants held695
+In twisted bands, and dragg’d perforce along;
+So panted dying Adamas, but soon
+Ceased, for Meriones, approaching, pluck’d
+The weapon forth, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+Helenus, with his heavy Thracian blade700
+Smiting the temples of Deipyrus,
+Dash’d off his helmet; from his brows remote
+It fell, and wandering roll’d, till at his feet
+Some warrior found it, and secured; meantime
+The sightless shades of death him wrapp’d around.705
+Grief at that spectacle the bosom fill’d
+Of valiant Menelaus; high he shook
+His radiant spear, and threatening him, advanced
+On royal Helenus, who ready stood
+With his bow bent. They met; impatient, one,710
+To give his pointed lance its rapid course,
+And one, to start his arrow from the nerve.
+The arrow of the son of Priam struck
+Atrides’ hollow corselet, but the reed
+Glanced wide. As vetches or as swarthy beans715
+Leap from the van and fly athwart the floor,
+By sharp winds driven, and by the winnower’s force,
+So from the corselet of the glorious Greek
+Wide-wandering flew the bitter shaft away.
+But Menelaus the left-hand transpierced720
+Of Helenus, and with the lance’s point
+Fasten’d it to his bow; shunning a stroke
+More fatal, Helenus into his band
+Retired, his arm dependent at his side,
+And trailing, as he went, the ashen beam;725
+There, bold Agenor from his hand the lance
+Drew forth, then folded it with softest wool
+Around, sling-wool, and borrow’d from the sling
+Which his attendant into battle bore.
+Then sprang Pisander on the glorious Chief730
+The son of Atreus, but his evil fate
+Beckon’d him to his death in conflict fierce,
+Oh Menelaus, mighty Chief! with thee.
+And now they met, small interval between.
+Atrides hurl’d his weapon, and it err’d.735
+Pisander with his spear struck full the shield
+Of glorious Menelaus, but his force
+Resisted by the stubborn buckler broad
+Fail’d to transpierce it, and the weapon fell
+Snapp’d at the neck. Yet, when he struck, the heart740
+Rebounded of Pisander, full of hope.
+But Menelaus, drawing his bright blade,
+Sprang on him, while Pisander from behind
+His buckler drew a brazen battle-axe
+By its long haft of polish’d olive-wood,745
+And both Chiefs struck together. He the crest
+That crown’d the shaggy casque of Atreus’ son
+Hew’d from its base, but Menelaus him
+In his swift onset smote full on the front
+Above his nose; sounded the shatter’d bone,750
+And his eyes both fell bloody at his feet.
+Convolved with pain he lay; then, on his breast
+Atrides setting fast his heel, tore off
+His armor, and exulting thus began.
+  So shall ye leave at length the Grecian fleet,755
+Traitors, and never satisfied with war!
+Nor want ye other guilt, dogs and profane!
+But me have injured also, and defied
+The hot displeasure of high-thundering Jove
+The hospitable, who shall waste in time,760
+And level with the dust your lofty Troy.
+I wrong’d not you, yet bore ye far away
+My youthful bride who welcomed you, and stole
+My treasures also, and ye now are bent
+To burn Achaia’s gallant fleet with fire765
+And slay her heroes; but your furious thirst
+Of battle shall hereafter meet a check.
+Oh, Father Jove! Thee wisest we account
+In heaven or earth, yet from thyself proceed
+All these calamities, who favor show’st770
+To this flagitious race the Trojans, strong
+In wickedness alone, and whose delight
+In war and bloodshed never can be cloy’d.
+All pleasures breed satiety, sweet sleep,
+Soft dalliance, music, and the graceful dance,775
+Though sought with keener appetite by most
+Than bloody war; but Troy still covets blood.
+  So spake the royal Chief, and to his friends
+Pisander’s gory spoils consigning, flew
+To mingle in the foremost fight again.780
+Him, next, Harpalion, offspring of the King
+Pylæmenes assail’d; to Troy he came
+Following his sire, but never thence return’d.
+He, from small distance, smote the central boss
+Of Menelaus’ buckler with his lance,785
+But wanting power to pierce it, with an eye
+Of cautious circumspection, lest perchance
+Some spear should reach him, to his band retired.
+But him retiring with a brazen shaft
+Meriones pursued; swift flew the dart790
+To his right buttock, slipp’d beneath the bone,
+His bladder grazed, and started through before.
+There ended his retreat; sudden he sank
+And like a worm lay on the ground, his life
+Exhaling in his fellow-warrior’s arms,795
+And with his sable blood soaking the plain.
+Around him flock’d his Paphlagonians bold,
+And in his chariot placed drove him to Troy,
+With whom his father went, mourning with tears
+A son, whose death he never saw avenged.800
+  Him slain with indignation Paris view’d,
+For he, with numerous Paphlagonians more
+His guest had been; he, therefore, in the thirst
+Of vengeance, sent a brazen arrow forth.
+There was a certain Greek, Euchenor, son805
+Of Polyides the soothsayer, rich
+And brave in fight, and who in Corinth dwelt
+He, knowing well his fate, yet sail’d to Troy
+For Polyides oft, his reverend sire,
+Had prophecied that he should either die810
+By some dire malady at home, or, slain
+By Trojan hands, amid the fleet of Greece.
+He, therefore, shunning the reproach alike
+Of the Achaians, and that dire disease,
+Had join’d the Grecian host; him Paris pierced815
+The ear and jaw beneath; life at the stroke
+Left him, and darkness overspread his eyes.
+  So raged the battle like devouring fire.
+But Hector dear to Jove not yet had learn’d,
+Nor aught surmised the havoc of his host820
+Made on the left, where victory crown’d well-nigh
+The Grecians animated to the fight
+By Neptune seconding himself their arms.
+He, where he first had started through the gate
+After dispersion of the shielded Greeks825
+Compact, still persevered. The galleys there
+Of Ajax and Protesilaüs stood
+Updrawn above the hoary Deep; the wall
+Was there of humblest structure, and the steeds
+And warriors there conflicted furious most.830
+The Epeans there and Iäonians[12] robed-
+Prolix, the Phthians,[13] Locrians, and the bold
+Bœtians check’d the terrible assault
+Of Hector, noble Chief, ardent as flame,
+Yet not repulsed him. Chosen Athenians form’d835
+The van, by Peteos’ son, Menestheus, led,
+Whose high command undaunted Bias shared,
+Phidas and Stichius. The Epean host
+Under Amphion, Dracius, Meges, fought.
+Podarces brave in arms the Phthians ruled,840
+And Medon (Medon was by spurious birth
+Brother of Ajax Oïliades,
+And for his uncle’s death, whom he had slain,
+The brother of Oïleus’ wife, abode
+In Phylace; but from Iphiclus sprang845
+Podarces;) these, all station’d in the front
+Of Phthias’ hardy sons, together strove
+With the Bœotians for the fleet’s defence.
+Ajax the swift swerved never from the side
+Of Ajax son of Telamon a step,850
+But as in some deep fallow two black steers
+Labor combined, dragging the ponderous plow,
+The briny sweat around their rooted horns
+Oozes profuse; they, parted as they toil
+Along the furrow, by the yoke alone,855
+Cleave to its bottom sheer the stubborn glebe,
+So, side by side, they, persevering fought.[14]
+The son of Telamon a people led
+Numerous and bold, who, when his bulky limbs
+Fail’d overlabor’d, eased him of his shield.860
+Not so attended by his Locrians fought
+Oïleus’ valiant son; pitch’d battle them
+Suited not, unprovided with bright casques
+Of hairy crest, with ashen spears, and shields
+Of ample orb; for, trusting in the bow865
+And twisted sling alone, they came to Troy,
+And broke with shafts and volley’d stones the ranks.
+Thus occupying, clad in burnish’d arms,
+The van, these two with Hector and his host
+Conflicted, while the Locrians from behind870
+Vex’d them with shafts, secure; nor could the men
+Of Ilium stand, by such a shower confused.
+Then, driven with dreadful havoc thence, the foe
+To wind-swept Ilium had again retired.
+Had not Polydamas, at Hector’s side875
+Standing, the dauntless hero thus address’d.
+  Hector! Thou ne’er canst listen to advice;
+But think’st thou, that if heaven in feats of arms
+Give thee pre-eminence, thou must excel
+Therefore in council also all mankind?880
+No. All-sufficiency is not for thee.
+To one, superior force in arms is given,
+Skill to another in the graceful dance,
+Sweet song and powers of music to a third,
+And to a fourth loud-thundering Jove imparts885
+Wisdom, which profits many, and which saves
+Whole cities oft, though reverenced but by few.
+Yet hear; I speak as wisest seems to me.
+War, like a fiery circle, all around
+Environs thee; the Trojans, since they pass’d890
+The bulwark, either hold themselves aloof,
+Or, wide-dispersed among the galleys, cope
+With numbers far superior to their own.
+Retiring, therefore, summon all our Chiefs
+To consultation on the sum of all,895
+Whether (should heaven so prosper us) to rush
+Impetuous on the gallant barks of Greece,
+Or to retreat secure; for much I dread
+Lest the Achaians punctually refund
+All yesterday’s arrear, since yonder Chief[15]900
+Insatiable with battle still abides
+Within the fleet, nor longer, as I judge,
+Will rest a mere spectator of the field.
+  So spake Polydamas, whose safe advice
+Pleased Hector; from his chariot down he leap’d905
+All arm’d, and in wing’d accents thus replied.
+  Polydamas! here gather all the Chiefs;
+I haste into the fight, and my commands
+Once issued there, incontinent return.
+  He ended, and conspicuous as the height910
+Of some snow-crested mountain, shouting ranged
+The Trojans and confederates of Troy.
+They swift around Polydamas, brave son
+Of Panthus, at the voice of Hector, ran.
+Himself with hasty strides the front, meantime,915
+Of battle roam’d, seeking from rank to rank
+Asius Hyrtacides, with Asius’ son
+Adamas, and Deiphobus, and the might
+Of Helenus, his royal brother bold.
+Them neither altogether free from hurt920
+He found, nor living all. Beneath the sterns
+Of the Achaian ships some slaughter’d lay
+By Grecian hands; some stricken by the spear
+Within the rampart sat, some by the sword.
+But leftward of the woful field he found,925
+Ere long, bright Helen’s paramour his band
+Exhorting to the fight. Hector approach’d,
+And him, in fierce displeasure, thus bespake.
+  Curst Paris, specious, fraudulent and lewd!
+Where is Deiphobus, and where the might930
+Of royal Helenus? Where Adamas
+Offspring of Asius, and where Asius, son
+Of Hyrtacus, and where Othryoneus?
+Now lofty Ilium from her topmost height
+Falls headlong, now is thy own ruin sure!935
+  To whom the godlike Paris thus replied.
+Since Hector! thou art pleased with no just cause
+To censure me, I may decline, perchance,
+Much more the battle on some future day,
+For I profess some courage, even I.940
+Witness our constant conflict with the Greeks
+Here, on this spot, since first led on by thee
+The host of Troy waged battle at the ships.
+But those our friends of whom thou hast inquired
+Are slain, Deiphobus alone except945
+And royal Helenus, who in the hand
+Bear each a wound inflicted by the spear,
+And have retired; but Jove their life preserved.
+Come now—conduct us whither most thine heart
+Prompts thee, and thou shalt find us ardent all950
+To face like danger; what we can, we will,
+The best and most determined can no more.
+  So saying, the hero soothed his brother’s mind.
+Then moved they both toward the hottest war
+Together, where Polydamas the brave,955
+Phalces, Cebriones, Orthæus fought,
+Palmys and Polyphœtes, godlike Chief,
+And Morys and Ascanius, gallant sons
+Both of Hippotion. They at Troy arrived
+From fair Ascania the preceding morn,960
+In recompense for aid[16] by Priam lent
+Erewhile to Phrygia, and, by Jove impell’d,
+Now waged the furious battle side by side.
+The march of these at once, was as the sound
+Of mighty winds from deep-hung thunder-clouds965
+Descending; clamorous the blast and wild
+With ocean mingles; many a billow, then,
+Upridged rides turbulent the sounding flood,
+Foam-crested billow after billow driven,
+So moved the host of Troy, rank after rank970
+Behind their Chiefs, all dazzling bright in arms.
+Before them Priameian Hector strode
+Fierce as gore-tainted Mars, and his broad shield
+Advancing came, heavy with hides, and thick-
+Plated with brass; his helmet on his brows975
+Refulgent shook, and in its turn he tried
+The force of every phalanx, if perchance
+Behind his broad shield pacing he might shake
+Their steadfast order; but he bore not down
+The spirit of the firm Achaian host.980
+Then Ajax striding forth, him, first, defied.
+  Approach. Why temptest thou the Greeks to fear?
+No babes are we in aught that appertains
+To arms, though humbled by the scourge of Jove.
+Thou cherishest the foolish hope to burn985
+Our fleet with fire; but even we have hearts
+Prepared to guard it, and your populous Troy,
+By us dismantled and to pillage given,
+Shall perish sooner far. Know this thyself
+Also; the hour is nigh when thou shalt ask990
+In prayer to Jove and all the Gods of heaven,
+That speed more rapid than the falcon’s flight
+May wing thy coursers, while, exciting dense
+The dusty plain, they whirl thee back to Troy.
+  While thus he spake, sublime on the right-hand995
+An eagle soar’d; confident in the sign
+The whole Achaian host with loud acclaim
+Hail’d it. Then glorious Hector thus replied.
+  Brainless and big, what means this boast of thine,
+Earth-cumberer Ajax? Would I were the son1000
+As sure, for ever, of almighty Jove
+And Juno, and such honor might receive
+Henceforth as Pallas and Apollo share,
+As comes this day with universal wo
+Fraught for the Grecians, among whom thyself1005
+Shalt also perish if thou dare abide
+My massy spear, which shall thy pamper’d flesh
+Disfigure, and amid the barks of Greece
+Falling, thou shalt the vultures with thy bulk
+Enormous satiate, and the dogs of Troy.1010
+  He spake, and led his host; with clamor loud
+They follow’d him, and all the distant rear
+Came shouting on. On the other side the Greeks
+Re-echoed shout for shout, all undismay’d,
+And waiting firm the bravest of their foes.1015
+Upwent the double roar into the heights
+Ethereal, and among the beams of Jove.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XIV.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE FOURTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Agamemnon and the other wounded Chiefs taking Nestor with them, visit
+the battle. Juno having borrowed the Cestus of Venus, first engages the
+assistance of Sleep, then hastens to Ida to inveigle Jove. She
+prevails. Jove sleeps; and Neptune takes that opportunity to succor the
+Grecians.
+
+
+BOOK XIV.
+
+
+Nor was that cry by Nestor unperceived
+Though drinking, who in words wing’d with surprise
+The son of Æsculapius thus address’d.
+  Divine Machaon! think what this may bode.
+The cry of our young warriors at the ships5
+Grows louder; sitting here, the sable wine
+Quaff thou, while bright-hair’d Hecamede warms
+A bath, to cleanse thy crimson stains away.
+I from yon eminence will learn the cause.
+  So saying, he took a shield radiant with brass10
+There lying in the tent, the shield well-forged
+Of valiant Thrasymedes, his own son
+(For he had borne to fight his father’s shield)
+And arming next his hand with a keen lance
+Stood forth before the tent. Thence soon he saw15
+Foul deeds and strange, the Grecian host confused,
+Their broken ranks flying before the host
+Of Ilium, and the rampart overthrown.
+As when the wide sea, darken’d over all
+Its silent flood, forebodes shrill winds to blow,20
+The doubtful waves roll yet to neither side,
+Till swept at length by a decisive gale;[1]
+So stood the senior, with distressful doubts
+Conflicting anxious, whether first to seek
+The Grecian host, or Agamemnon’s self25
+The sovereign, and at length that course preferr’d.
+Meantime with mutual carnage they the field
+Spread far and wide, and by spears double-edged
+Smitten, and by the sword their corselets rang.
+  The royal Chiefs ascending from the fleet,30
+Ulysses, Diomede, and Atreus’ son
+Imperial Agamemnon, who had each
+Bled in the battle, met him on his way.
+For from the war remote they had updrawn
+Their galleys on the shore of the gray Deep,35
+The foremost to the plain, and at the sterns
+Of that exterior line had built the wall.
+For, spacious though it were, the shore alone
+That fleet sufficed not, incommoding much
+The people; wherefore they had ranged the ships40
+Line above line gradual, and the bay
+Between both promontories, all was fill’d.
+They, therefore, curious to survey the fight,
+Came forth together, leaning on the spear,
+When Nestor met them; heavy were their hearts,45
+And at the sight of him still more alarm’d,
+Whom royal Agamemnon thus bespake.
+  Neleian Nestor, glory of the Greeks!
+What moved thee to forsake yon bloody field,
+And urged thee hither? Cause I see of fear,50
+Lest furious Hector even now his threat
+Among the Trojans publish’d, verify,
+That he would never enter Ilium more
+Till he had burn’d our fleet, and slain ourselves.
+So threaten’d Hector, and shall now perform.55
+Alas! alas! the Achaians brazen-greaved
+All, like Achilles, have deserted me
+Resentful, and decline their fleet’s defence.
+  To whom Gerenian Nestor thus replied.
+Those threats are verified; nor Jove himself60
+The Thunderer can disappoint them now;
+For our chief strength in which we trusted most
+That it should guard impregnably secure
+Our navy and ourselves, the wall hath fallen.
+Hence all this conflict by our host sustain’d65
+Among the ships; nor could thy keenest sight
+Inform thee where in the Achaian camp
+Confusion most prevails, such deaths are dealt
+Promiscuous, and the cry ascends to heaven.
+But come—consult we on the sum of all,70
+If counsel yet may profit. As for you,
+Ye shall have exhortation none from me
+To seek the fight; the wounded have excuse.
+  Whom Agamemnon answer’d, King of men.
+Ah Nestor! if beneath our very sterns75
+The battle rage, if neither trench nor wall
+Constructed with such labor, and supposed
+Of strength to guard impregnably secure
+Our navy and ourselves, avail us aught,
+It is because almighty Jove hath will’d80
+That the Achaian host should perish here
+Inglorious, from their country far remote.
+When he vouchsafed assistance to the Greeks,
+I knew it well; and now, not less I know
+That high as the immortal Gods he lifts85
+Our foes to glory, and depresses us.
+Haste therefore all, and act as I advise.
+Our ships—all those that nearest skirt the Deep,
+Launch we into the sacred flood, and moor
+With anchors safely, till o’ershadowing night90
+(If night itself may save us) shall arrive.
+Then may we launch the rest; for I no shame
+Account it, even by ’vantage of the night
+To fly destruction. Wiser him I deem
+Who ’scapes his foe, than whom his foe enthralls.95
+  But him Ulysses, frowning stern, reproved.
+What word, Atrides, now hath pass’d thy lips?
+Counsellor of despair! thou should’st command
+(And would to heaven thou didst) a different host,
+Some dastard race, not ours; whom Jove ordains100
+From youth to hoary age to weave the web
+Of toilsome warfare, till we perish all.
+Wilt thou the spacious city thus renounce
+For which such numerous woes we have endured?
+Hush! lest some other hear; it is a word105
+Which no man qualified by years mature
+To speak discreetly, no man bearing rule
+O’er such a people as confess thy sway,
+Should suffer to contaminate his lips.
+I from my soul condemn thee, and condemn110
+Thy counsel, who persuad’st us in the heat
+Of battle terrible as this, to launch
+Our fleet into the waves, that we may give
+Our too successful foes their full desire,
+And that our own prepondering scale115
+May plunge us past all hope; for while they draw
+Their galleys down, the Grecians shall but ill
+Sustain the fight, seaward will cast their eyes
+And shun the battle, bent on flight alone.
+Then, shall they rue thy counsel, King of men!120
+  To whom the imperial leader of the Greeks.
+Thy sharp reproof, Ulysses, hath my soul
+Pierced deeply. Yet I gave no such command
+That the Achaians should their galleys launch,
+Would they, or would they not. No. I desire125
+That young or old, some other may advice
+More prudent give, and he shall please me well.
+  Then thus the gallant Diomede replied.
+That man is near, and may ye but be found
+Tractable, our inquiry shall be short.130
+Be patient each, nor chide me nor reproach
+Because I am of greener years than ye,
+For I am sprung from an illustrious Sire,
+From Tydeus, who beneath his hill of earth
+Lies now entomb’d at Thebes. Three noble sons135
+Were born to Portheus, who in Pleuro dwelt,
+And on the heights of Calydon; the first
+Agrius; the second Melas; and the third
+Brave Oeneus, father of my father, famed
+For virtuous qualities above the rest.140
+Oeneus still dwelt at home; but wandering thence
+My father dwelt in Argos; so the will
+Of Jove appointed, and of all the Gods.
+There he espoused the daughter of the King
+Adrastus, occupied a mansion rich145
+In all abundance; many a field possess’d
+Of wheat, well-planted gardens, numerous flocks,
+And was expert in spearmanship esteem’d
+Past all the Grecians. I esteem’d it right
+That ye should hear these things, for they are true.150
+Ye will not, therefore, as I were obscure
+And of ignoble origin, reject
+What I shall well advise. Expedience bids
+That, wounded as we are, we join the host.
+We will preserve due distance from the range155
+Of spears and arrows, lest already gall’d,
+We suffer worse; but we will others urge
+To combat, who have stood too long aloof,
+Attentive only to their own repose.
+  He spake, whom all approved, and forth they went,160
+Imperial Agamemnon at their head.
+  Nor watch’d the glorious Shaker of the shores
+In vain, but like a man time-worn approach’d,
+And, seizing Agamemnon’s better hand,
+In accents wing’d the monarch thus address’d.165
+  Atrides! now exults the vengeful heart
+Of fierce Achilles, viewing at his ease
+The flight and slaughter of Achaia’s host;
+For he is mad, and let him perish such,
+And may his portion from the Gods be shame!170
+But as for thee, not yet the powers of heaven
+Thee hate implacable; the Chiefs of Troy
+Shall cover yet with cloudy dust the breadth
+Of all the plain, and backward from the camp
+To Ilium’s gates thyself shalt see them driven.175
+  He ceased, and shouting traversed swift the field.
+Loud as nine thousand or ten thousand shout
+In furious battle mingled, Neptune sent
+His voice abroad, force irresistible
+Infusing into every Grecian heart,180
+And thirst of battle not to be assuaged.
+  But Juno of the golden throne stood forth
+On the Olympian summit, viewing thence
+The field, where clear distinguishing the God
+Of ocean, her own brother, sole engaged185
+Amid the glorious battle, glad was she.
+Seeing Jove also on the topmost point
+Of spring-fed Ida seated, she conceived
+Hatred against him, and thenceforth began
+Deliberate how best she might deceive190
+The Thunderer, and thus at last resolved;
+Attired with skill celestial to descend
+On Ida, with a hope to allure him first
+Won by her beauty to a fond embrace,
+Then closing fast in balmy sleep profound195
+His eyes, to elude his vigilance, secure.
+She sought her chamber; Vulcan her own son
+That chamber built. He framed the solid doors,
+And to the posts fast closed them with a key
+Mysterious, which, herself except, in heaven200
+None understood. Entering she secured
+The splendid portal. First, she laved all o’er
+Her beauteous body with ambrosial lymph,
+Then polish’d it with richest oil divine
+Of boundless fragrance;[2] oil that in the courts205
+Eternal only shaken, through the skies
+Breathed odors, and through all the distant earth.
+Her whole fair body with those sweets bedew’d,
+She passed the comb through her ambrosial hair,
+And braided her bright locks streaming profuse210
+From her immortal brows; with golden studs
+She made her gorgeous mantle fast before,
+Ethereal texture, labor of the hands
+Of Pallas beautified with various art,
+And braced it with a zone fringed all around215
+A hundred fold; her pendants triple-gemm’d
+Luminous, graceful, in her ears she hung,
+And covering all her glories with a veil
+Sun-bright, new-woven, bound to her fair feet
+Her sandals elegant. Thus full attired,220
+In all her ornaments, she issued forth,
+And beckoning Venus from the other powers
+Of heaven apart, the Goddess thus bespake.
+  Daughter beloved! shall I obtain my suit,
+Or wilt thou thwart me, angry that I aid225
+The Grecians, while thine aid is given to Troy?
+  To whom Jove’s daughter Venus thus replied.
+What would majestic Juno, daughter dread
+Of Saturn, sire of Jove? I feel a mind
+Disposed to gratify thee, if thou ask230
+Things possible, and possible to me.
+  Then thus with wiles veiling her deep design
+Imperial Juno. Give me those desires,
+That love-enkindling power by which thou sway’st
+Immortal hearts and mortal, all alike;235
+For to the green earth’s utmost bounds I go,
+To visit there the parent of the Gods,
+Oceanus, and Tethys his espoused,
+Mother of all. They kindly from the hands
+Of Rhea took, and with parental care240
+Sustain’d and cherish’d me, what time from heaven
+The Thunderer hurled down Saturn, and beneath
+The earth fast bound him and the barren Deep.
+Them go I now to visit, and their feuds
+Innumerable to compose; for long245
+They have from conjugal embrace abstain’d
+Through mutual wrath, whom by persuasive speech
+Might I restore into each other’s arms,
+They would for ever love me and revere.
+  Her, foam-born Venus then, Goddess of smiles,250
+Thus answer’d. Thy request, who in the arms
+Of Jove reposest the omnipotent,
+Nor just it were nor seemly to refuse.
+  So saying, the cincture from her breast she loosed
+Embroider’d, various, her all-charming zone.255
+It was an ambush of sweet snares, replete
+With love, desire, soft intercourse of hearts,
+And music of resistless whisper’d sounds
+That from the wisest steal their best resolves;
+She placed it in her hands and thus she said.260
+  Take this—this girdle fraught with every charm.
+Hide this within thy bosom, and return,
+Whate’er thy purpose, mistress of it all.
+  She spake; imperial Juno smiled, and still
+Smiling complacent, bosom’d safe the zone.265
+Then Venus to her father’s court return’d,
+And Juno, starting from the Olympian height,
+O’erflew Pieria and the lovely plains
+Of broad Emathia; soaring thence she swept
+The snow-clad summits of the Thracian hills270
+Steed-famed, nor printed, as she passed, the soil.
+From Athos o’er the foaming billows borne
+She came to Lemnos, city and abode
+Of noble Thoas, and there meeting Sleep,
+Brother of Death, she press’d his hand, and said,275
+  Sleep, over all, both Gods and men, supreme!
+If ever thou hast heard, hear also now
+My suit; I will be grateful evermore.
+Seal for me fast the radiant eyes of Jove
+In the instant of his gratified desire.280
+Thy recompense shall be a throne of gold,
+Bright, incorruptible; my limping son,
+Vulcan, shall fashion it himself with art
+Laborious, and, beneath, shall place a stool[3]
+For thy fair feet, at the convivial board.285
+  Then answer thus the tranquil Sleep returned
+Great Saturn’s daughter, awe-inspiring Queen!
+All other of the everlasting Gods
+I could with ease make slumber, even the streams
+Of Ocean, Sire of all.[4] Not so the King290
+The son of Saturn: him, unless himself
+Give me command, I dare not lull to rest,
+Or even approach him, taught as I have been
+Already in the school of thy commands
+That wisdom. I forget not yet the day295
+When, Troy laid waste, that valiant son[5] of his
+Sail’d homeward: then my influence I diffused
+Soft o’er the sovereign intellect of Jove;
+While thou, against the Hero plotting harm,
+Didst rouse the billows with tempestuous blasts,300
+And separating him from all his friend,
+Brought’st him to populous Cos. Then Jove awoke,
+And, hurling in his wrath the Gods about,
+Sought chiefly me, whom far below all ken
+He had from heaven cast down into the Deep,305
+But Night, resistless vanquisher of all,
+Both Gods and men, preserved me; for to her
+I fled for refuge. So the Thunderer cool’d,
+Though sore displeased, and spared me through a fear
+To violate the peaceful sway of Night.[6]310
+And thou wouldst now embroil me yet again!
+  To whom majestic Juno thus replied.
+Ah, wherefore, Sleep! shouldst thou indulge a fear
+So groundless?  Chase it from thy mind afar.
+Think’st thou the Thunderer as intent to serve315
+The Trojans, and as jealous in their cause
+As erst for Hercules, his genuine son?
+Come then, and I will bless thee with a bride;
+One of the younger Graces shall be thine,
+Pasithea, day by day still thy desire.320
+  She spake; Sleep heard delighted, and replied.
+By the inviolable Stygian flood
+Swear to me; lay thy right hand on the glebe
+All-teeming, lay thy other on the face
+Of the flat sea, that all the Immortal Powers325
+Who compass Saturn in the nether realms
+May witness, that thou givest me for a bride
+The younger Grace whom thou hast named, divine
+Pasithea, day by day still my desire.
+  He said, nor beauteous Juno not complied,330
+But sware, by name invoking all the powers
+Titanian call’d who in the lowest gulf
+Dwell under Tartarus, omitting none.
+Her oath with solemn ceremonial sworn,
+Together forth they went; Lemnos they left335
+And Imbrus, city of Thrace, and in dark clouds
+Mantled, with gliding ease swam through the air
+To Ida’s mount with rilling waters vein’d,
+Parent of savage beasts; at Lectos[7] first
+They quitted Ocean, overpassing high340
+The dry land, while beneath their feet the woods
+Their spiry summits waved. There, unperceived
+By Jove, Sleep mounted Ida’s loftiest pine
+Of growth that pierced the sky, and hidden sat
+Secure by its expanded boughs, the bird345
+Shrill-voiced resembling in the mountains seen,[8]
+Chalcis in heaven, on earth Cymindis named.
+  But Juno swift to Gargarus the top
+Of Ida, soar’d, and there Jove saw his spouse.
+—Saw her—and in his breast the same love felt350
+Rekindled vehement, which had of old
+Join’d them, when, by their parents unperceived,
+They stole aside, and snatch’d their first embrace.
+Soon he accosted her, and thus inquired.
+
+  Juno! what region seeking hast thou left355
+The Olympian summit, and hast here arrived
+With neither steed nor chariot in thy train?
+  To whom majestic Juno thus replied
+Dissembling. To the green earth’s end I go,
+To visit there the parent of the Gods360
+Oceanus, and Tethys his espoused,
+Mother of all. They kindly from the hands
+Of Rhea took, and with parental care
+Sustain’d and cherish’d me;[9] to them I haste
+Their feuds innumerable to compose,365
+Who disunited by intestine strife
+Long time, from conjugal embrace abstain.
+My steeds, that lightly over dank and dry
+Shall bear me, at the rooted base I left
+Of Ida river-vein’d. But for thy sake370
+From the Olympian summit I arrive,
+Lest journeying remote to the abode
+Of Ocean, and with no consent of thine
+Entreated first, I should, perchance, offend.
+  To whom the cloud-assembler God replied.375
+Juno! thy journey thither may be made
+Hereafter. Let us turn to dalliance now.
+For never Goddess pour’d, nor woman yet
+So full a tide of love into my breast;
+I never loved Ixion’s consort thus380
+Who bore Pirithoüs, wise as we in heaven;
+Nor sweet Acrisian Danäe, from whom
+Sprang Perseus, noblest of the race of man;
+Nor Phœnix’ daughter fair,[10] of whom were born
+Minos unmatch’d but by the powers above,385
+And Rhadamanthus; nor yet Semele,
+Nor yet Alcmena, who in Thebes produced
+The valiant Hercules; and though my son
+By Semele were Bacchus, joy of man;
+Nor Ceres golden-hair’d, nor high-enthroned390
+Latona in the skies, no—nor thyself
+As now I love thee, and my soul perceive
+O’erwhelm’d with sweetness of intense desire.
+  Then thus majestic Juno her reply
+Framed artful. Oh unreasonable haste!395
+What speaks the Thunderer? If on Ida’s heights.
+Where all is open and to view exposed
+Thou wilt that we embrace, what must betide,
+Should any of the everlasting Gods
+Observe us, and declare it to the rest?400
+Never could I, arising, seek again,
+Thy mansion, so unseemly were the deed.
+But if thy inclinations that way tend,
+Thou hast a chamber; it is Vulcan’s work,
+Our son’s; he framed and fitted to its posts405
+The solid portal; thither let us his,
+And there repose, since such thy pleasure seems.
+  To whom the cloud-assembler Deity.
+Fear thou not, Juno, lest the eye of man
+Or of a God discern us; at my word410
+A golden cloud shall fold us so around,
+That not the Sun himself shall through that veil
+Discover aught, though keenest-eyed of all.
+  So spake the son of Saturn, and his spouse
+Fast lock’d within his arms. Beneath them earth415
+With sudden herbage teem’d; at once upsprang
+The crocus soft, the lotus bathed in dew,
+And the crisp hyacinth with clustering bells;
+Thick was their growth, and high above the ground
+Upbore them. On that flowery couch they lay,420
+Invested with a golden cloud that shed
+Bright dew-drops all around.[11] His heart at ease,
+There lay the Sire of all, by Sleep and Love
+Vanquish’d on lofty Gargarus, his spouse
+Constraining still with amorous embrace.425
+Then, gentle Sleep to the Achaian camp
+Sped swift away, with tidings for the ear
+Of earth-encircler Neptune charged; him soon
+He found, and in wing’d accents thus began.
+  Now Neptune, yield the Greeks effectual aid,430
+And, while the moment lasts of Jove’s repose,
+Make victory theirs; for him in slumbers soft
+I have involved, while Juno by deceit
+Prevailing, lured him with the bait of love.
+  He said, and swift departed to his task435
+Among the nations; but his tidings urged
+Neptune with still more ardor to assist
+The Danaï; he leap’d into the van
+Afar, and thus exhorted them aloud.
+  Oh Argives! yield we yet again the day440
+To Priameian Hector? Shall he seize
+Our ships, and make the glory all his own?
+Such is his expectation, so he vaunts,
+For that Achilles leaves not yet his camp,
+Resentful; but of him small need, I judge,445
+Should here be felt, could once the rest be roused
+To mutual aid. Act, then, as I advise.
+The best and broadest bucklers of the host,
+And brightest helmets put we on, and arm’d
+With longest spears, advance; myself will lead;450
+And trust me, furious though he be, the son
+Of Priam flies. Ye then who feel your hearts
+Undaunted, but are arm’d with smaller shields,
+Them give to those who fear, and in exchange
+Their stronger shields and broader take yourselves.455
+  So he, whom, unreluctant, all obey’d.
+Then, wounded as they were, themselves the Kings,
+Tydides, Agamemnon and Ulysses
+Marshall’d the warriors, and from rank to rank
+Made just exchange of arms, giving the best460
+To the best warriors, to the worse, the worst.
+And now in brazen armor all array’d
+Refulgent on they moved, by Neptune led
+With firm hand grasping his long-bladed sword
+Keen as Jove’s bolt; with him may none contend465
+In dreadful fight; but fear chains every arm.
+  Opposite, Priameian Hector ranged
+His Trojans; then they stretch’d the bloody cord
+Of conflict tight, Neptune cœrulean-hair’d,
+And Hector, pride of Ilium; one, the Greeks470
+Supporting firm, and one, the powers of Troy;
+A sea-flood dash’d the galleys, and the hosts
+Join’d clamorous. Not so the billows roar
+The shores among, when Boreas’ roughest blast
+Sweeps landward from the main the towering surge;475
+Not so, devouring fire among the trees
+That clothe the mountain, when the sheeted flames
+Ascending wrap the forest in a blaze;
+Nor howl the winds through leafy boughs of oaks
+Upgrown aloft (though loudest there they rave)480
+With sounds so awful as were heard of Greeks
+And Trojans shouting when the clash began.
+  At Ajax, first (for face to face they stood)
+Illustrious Hector threw a spear well-aim’d,
+But smote him where the belts that bore his shield485
+And falchion cross’d each other on his breast.
+The double guard preserved him unannoy’d.
+Indignant that his spear had bootless flown,
+Yet fearing death at hand, the Trojan Chief
+Toward the phalanx of his friends retired.490
+But, as he went, huge Ajax with a stone
+Of those which propp’d the ships (for numerous such
+Lay rolling at the feet of those who fought)
+Assail’d him. Twirling like a top it pass’d
+The shield of Hector, near the neck his breast495
+Struck full, then plough’d circuitous the dust.
+As when Jove’s arm omnipotent an oak
+Prostrates uprooted on the plain, a fume
+Rises sulphureous from the riven trunk,
+And if, perchance, some traveller nigh at hand500
+See it, he trembles at the bolt of Jove,
+So fell the might of Hector, to the earth
+Smitten at once. Down dropp’d his idle spear,
+And with his helmet and his shield himself
+Also; loud thunder’d all his gorgeous arms.505
+Swift flew the Grecians shouting to the skies,
+And showering darts, to drag his body thence,
+But neither spear of theirs nor shaft could harm
+The fallen leader, with such instant aid
+His princely friends encircled him around,510
+Sarpedon, Lycian Chief, Glaucus the brave,
+Polydamas, Æneas, and renown’d
+Agenor; neither tardy were the rest,
+But with round shields all shelter’d Hector fallen.
+Him soon uplifted from the plain his friends515
+Bore thence, till where his fiery coursers stood,
+And splendid chariot in the rear, they came,
+Then Troy-ward drove him groaning as he went.
+Ere long arriving at the pleasant stream
+Of eddied Xanthus, progeny of Jove,520
+They laid him on the bank, and on his face
+Pour’d water; he, reviving, upward gazed,
+And seated on his hams black blood disgorged
+Coagulate, but soon relapsing, fell
+Supine, his eyes with pitchy darkness veil’d,525
+And all his powers still torpid by the blow.
+  Then, seeing Hector borne away, the Greeks
+Rush’d fiercer on, all mindful of the fight,
+And far before the rest, Ajax the swift,
+The Oïlean Chief, with pointed spear530
+On Satnius springing, pierced him. Him a nymph
+A Naiad, bore to Enops, while his herd
+Feeding, on Satnio’s grassy verge he stray’d.
+But Oïliades the spear-renown’d
+Approaching, pierced his flank; supine he fell,535
+And fiery contest for the dead arose.
+In vengeance of his fall, spear-shaking Chief
+The son of Panthus into fight advanced
+Polydamas, who Prothöenor pierced
+Offspring of Areïlocus, and urged540
+Through his right shoulder sheer the stormy lance.
+He, prostrate, clench’d the dust, and with loud voice
+Polydamas exulted at his fall.
+  Yon spear, methinks, hurl’d from the warlike hand
+Of Panthus’ noble son, flew not in vain,545
+But some Greek hath it, purposing, I judge,
+To lean on it in his descent to hell.
+  So he, whose vaunt the Greeks indignant heard.
+But most indignant, Ajax, offspring bold
+Of Telamon, to whom he nearest fell.550
+He, quick, at the retiring conqueror cast
+His radiant spear; Polydamas the stroke
+Shunn’d, starting sideward; but Antenor’s son
+Archilochus the mortal dint received,
+Death-destined by the Gods; where neck and spine555
+Unite, both tendons he dissever’d wide,
+And, ere his knees, his nostrils met the ground.
+  Then Ajax in his turn vaunting aloud
+Against renown’d Polydamas, exclaim’d.
+Speak now the truth, Polydamas, and weigh560
+My question well. His life whom I have slain
+Makes it not compensation for the loss
+Of Prothöenor’s life! To me he seems
+Nor base himself; nor yet of base descent,
+But brother of Atenor steed-renown’d,565
+Or else perchance his son; for in my eyes
+Antenor’s lineage he resembles most.
+  So he, well knowing him, and sorrow seized
+Each Trojan heart. Then Acamas around
+His brother stalking, wounded with his spear570
+Bœotian Promachus, who by the feet
+Dragg’d off the slain. Acamas in his fall
+Aloud exulted with a boundless joy.
+  Vain-glorious Argives, archers inexpert!
+War’s toil and trouble are not ours alone,575
+But ye shall perish also; mark the man—
+How sound he sleeps tamed by my conquering arm,
+Your fellow-warrior Promachus! the debt
+Of vengeance on my brother’s dear behalf
+Demanded quick discharge; well may the wish580
+Of every dying warrior be to leave
+A brother living to avenge his fall.
+  He ended, whom the Greeks indignant heard,
+But chiefly brave Peneleus; swift he rush’d
+On Acamas; but from before the force585
+Of King Peneleus Acamas retired,
+And, in his stead, Ilioneus he pierced,
+Offspring of Phorbas, rich in flocks; and blest
+By Mercury with such abundant wealth
+As other Trojan none, nor child to him590
+His spouse had borne, Ilioneus except.
+Him close beneath the brow to his eye-roots
+Piercing, he push’d the pupil from its seat,
+And through his eye and through his poll the spear
+Urged furious. He down-sitting on the earth595
+Both hands extended; but, his glittering blade
+Forth-drawn, Peneleus through his middle neck
+Enforced it; head and helmet to the ground
+He lopp’d together, with the lance infixt
+Still in his eye; then like a poppy’s head600
+The crimson trophy lifting, in the ears
+He vaunted loud of Ilium’s host, and cried.
+  Go, Trojans! be my messengers! Inform
+The parents of Ilioneus the brave
+That they may mourn their son through all their house,605
+For so the wife of Alegenor’s son
+Bœotian Promachus must him bewail,
+Nor shall she welcome his return with smiles
+Of joy affectionate, when from the shores
+Of Troy the fleet shall bear us Grecians home.610
+  He said; fear whiten’d every Trojan cheek,
+And every Trojan eye with earnest look
+Inquired a refuge from impending fate.
+  Say now, ye Muses, blest inhabitants
+Of the Olympian realms! what Grecian first615
+Fill’d his victorious hand with armor stript
+From slaughter’d Trojans, after Ocean’s God
+Had, interposing, changed the battle’s course?
+  First, Telamonian Ajax Hyrtius slew,
+Undaunted leader of the Mysian band.620
+Phalces and Mermerus their arms resign’d
+To young Antilochus; Hyppotion fell
+And Morys by Meriones; the shafts
+Right-aim’d of Teucer to the shades dismiss’d
+Prothöus and Periphetes, and the prince625
+Of Sparta, Menelaus, in his flank
+Pierced Hyperenor; on his entrails prey’d
+The hungry steel, and, through the gaping wound
+Expell’d, his spirit flew; night veil’d his eyes.
+But Ajax Oïliades the swift630
+Slew most; him none could equal in pursuit
+Of tremblers scatter’d by the frown of Jove.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XV.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE FIFTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Jove, awaking and seeing the Trojans routed, threatens Juno. He sends
+Iris to admonish Neptune to relinquish the battle, and Apollo to
+restore health to Hector. Apollo armed with the Ægis, puts to flight
+the Grecians; they are pursued home to their fleet, and Telamonian Ajax
+slays twelve Trojans bringing fire to burn it.
+
+
+BOOK XV.
+
+
+But when the flying Trojans had o’erpass’d
+Both stakes and trench, and numerous slaughtered lay
+By Grecian hands, the remnant halted all
+Beside their chariots, pale, discomfited.
+Then was it that on Ida’s summit Jove5
+At Juno’s side awoke; starting, he stood
+At once erect; Trojans and Greeks he saw,
+These broken, those pursuing and led on
+By Neptune; he beheld also remote
+Encircled by his friends, and on the plain10
+Extended, Hector; there he panting lay,
+Senseless, ejecting blood, bruised by a blow
+From not the feeblest of the sons of Greece.
+Touch’d with compassion at that sight, the Sire
+Of Gods and men, frowning terrific, fix’d15
+His eyes on Juno, and her thus bespake.
+  No place for doubt remains. Oh, versed in wiles,
+Juno! thy mischief-teeming mind perverse
+Hath plotted this; thou hast contrived the hurt
+Of Hector, and hast driven his host to flight.20
+I know not but thyself mayst chance to reap
+The first-fruits of thy cunning, scourged[1] by me.
+Hast thou forgotten how I once aloft
+Suspended thee, with anvils at thy feet,
+And both thy wrists bound with a golden cord25
+Indissoluble? In the clouds of heaven
+I hung thee, while from the Olympian heights
+The Gods look’d mournful on, but of them all
+None could deliver thee, for whom I seized,
+Hurl’d through the gates of heaven on earth he fell,30
+Half-breathless. Neither so did I resign
+My hot resentment of the hero’s wrongs
+Immortal Hercules, whom thou by storms
+Call’d from the North, with mischievous intent
+Hadst driven far distant o’er the barren Deep35
+To populous Cos. Thence I deliver’d him,
+And after numerous woes severe, he reach’d
+The shores of fruitful Argos, saved by me.
+I thus remind thee now, that thou mayst cease
+Henceforth from artifice, and mayst be taught40
+How little all the dalliance and the love
+Which, stealing down from heaven, thou hast by fraud
+Obtain’d from me, shall profit thee at last.
+  He ended, whom imperial Juno heard
+Shuddering, and in wing’d accents thus replied.45
+  Be witness Earth, the boundless Heaven above,
+And Styx beneath, whose stream the blessed Gods
+Even tremble to adjure;[2] be witness too
+Thy sacred life, and our connubial bed,
+Which by a false oath I will never wrong,50
+That by no art induced or plot of mine
+Neptune, the Shaker of the shores, inflicts
+These harms on Hector and the Trojan host
+Aiding the Grecians, but impell’d alone
+By his own heart with pity moved at sight55
+Of the Achaians at the ships subdued.
+But even him, oh Sovereign of the storms!
+I am prepared to admonish that he quit
+The battle, and retire where thou command’st.
+  So she; then smiled the Sire of Gods and men,60
+And in wing’d accents answer thus return’d.[3]
+  Juno! wouldst thou on thy celestial throne
+Assist my counsels, howso’er in heart
+He differ now, Neptune should soon his will
+Submissive bend to thy desires and mine.65
+But if sincerity be in thy words
+And truth, repairing to the blest abodes
+Send Iris hither, with the archer God
+Apollo; that she, visiting the host
+Of Greece, may bid the Sovereign of the Deep70
+Renounce the fight, and seek his proper home.
+Apollo’s part shall be to rouse again
+Hector to battle, to inspire his soul
+Afresh with courage, and all memory thence
+To banish of the pangs which now he feels.75
+Apollo also shall again repulse
+Achaia’s host, which with base panic fill’d,
+Shall even to Achilles’ ships be driven.
+Achilles shall his valiant friend exhort
+Patroclus forth; him under Ilium’s walls80
+Shall glorious Hector slay; but many a youth
+Shall perish by Patroclus first, with whom,
+My noble son Sarpedon. Peleus’ son,
+Resentful of Patroclus’ death, shall slay
+Hector, and I will urge ceaseless, myself,85
+Thenceforth the routed Trojans back again,
+Till by Minerva’s aid the Greeks shall take
+Ilium’s proud city; till that day arrive
+My wrath shall burn, nor will I one permit
+Of all the Immortals to assist the Greeks,90
+But will perform Achilles’ whole desire.
+Such was my promise to him at the first,
+Ratified by a nod that self-same day
+When Thetis clasp’d my knees, begging revenge
+And glory for her city-spoiler son.95
+  He ended; nor his spouse white-arm’d refused
+Obedience, but from the Idæan heights
+Departing, to the Olympian summit soar’d.
+Swift as the traveller’s thought,[4] who, many a land
+Traversed, deliberates on his future course100
+Uncertain, and his mind sends every way,
+So swift updarted Juno to the skies.
+Arrived on the Olympian heights, she found
+The Gods assembled; they, at once, their seats
+At her approach forsaking, with full cups105
+Her coming hail’d; heedless of all beside,
+She took the cup from blooming Themis’ hand,
+For she first flew to welcome her, and thus
+In accents wing’d of her return inquired.
+  Say, Juno, why this sudden re-ascent?110
+Thou seem’st dismay’d; hath Saturn’s son, thy spouse,
+Driven thee affrighted to the skies again?
+  To whom the white-arm’d Goddess thus replied.
+Themis divine, ask not. Full well thou know’st
+How harshly temper’d is the mind of Jove,115
+And how untractable. Resume thy seat;
+The banquet calls thee; at our board preside,
+Thou shalt be told, and all in heaven shall hear
+What ills he threatens; such as shall not leave
+All minds at ease, I judge, here or on earth,120
+However tranquil some and joyous now.
+  So spake the awful spouse of Jove, and sat.
+Then, all alike, the Gods displeasure felt
+Throughout the courts of Jove, but she, her lips
+Gracing with smiles from which her sable brows125
+Dissented,[5] thus indignant them address’d.
+  Alas! how vain against the Thunderer’s will
+Our anger, and the hope to supersede
+His purpose, by persuasion or by force!
+He solitary sits, all unconcern’d130
+At our resentment, and himself proclaims
+Mightiest and most to be revered in heaven.
+Be patient, therefore, and let each endure
+Such ills as Jove may send him. Mars, I ween,
+Already hath his share; the warrior God135
+Hath lost Ascalaphus, of all mankind
+His most beloved, and whom he calls his own.
+  She spake, and with expanded palms his thighs
+Smiling, thus, sorrowful, the God exclaim’d.
+  Inhabitants of the Olympian heights!140
+Oh bear with me, if to avenge my son
+I seek Achaia’s fleet, although my doom
+Be thunder-bolts from Jove, and with the dead
+Outstretch’d to lie in carnage and in dust.
+  He spake, and bidding Horror and Dismay145
+Lead to the yoke his rapid steeds, put on
+His all-refulgent armor. Then had wrath
+More dreadful, some strange vengeance on the Gods
+From Jove befallen, had not Minerva, touch’d
+With timely fears for all, upstarting sprung150
+From where she sat, right through the vestibule.
+She snatch’d the helmet from his brows, the shield
+From his broad shoulder, and the brazen spear
+Forced from his grasp into its place restored.
+Then reprimanding Mars, she thus began.155
+  Frantic, delirious! thou art lost for ever!
+Is it in vain that thou hast ears to hear,
+And hast thou neither shame nor reason left?
+How? hear’st thou not the Goddess? the report
+Of white-arm’d Juno from Olympian Jove160
+Return’d this moment? or perfer’st thou rather,
+Plagued with a thousand woes, and under force
+Of sad necessity to seek again
+Olympus, and at thy return to prove
+Author of countless miseries to us all?165
+For He at once Grecians and Trojans both
+Abandoning, will hither haste prepared
+To tempest[6] us in heaven, whom he will seize,
+The guilty and the guiltless, all alike.
+I bid thee, therefore, patient bear the death170
+Of thy Ascalaphus; braver than he
+And abler have, ere now, in battle fallen,
+And shall hereafter; arduous were the task
+To rescue from the stroke of fate the race
+Of mortal men, with all their progeny.175
+  So saying, Minerva on his throne replaced
+The fiery Mars. Then, summoning abroad
+Apollo from within the hall of Jove,
+With Iris, swift ambassadress of heaven,
+Them in wing’d accents Juno thus bespake.180
+  Jove bids you hence with undelaying speed
+To Ida; in his presence once arrived,
+See that ye execute his whole command.
+  So saying, the awful Goddess to her throne
+Return’d and sat. They, cleaving swift the air,185
+Alighted soon on Ida fountain-fed,
+Parent of savage kinds. High on the point
+Seated of Gargarus, and wrapt around
+With fragrant clouds, they found Saturnian Jove
+The Thunderer, and in his presence stood.190
+He, nought displeased that they his high command
+Had with such readiness obey’d, his speech
+To Iris, first, in accents wing’d address’d
+  Swift Iris, haste—to royal Neptune bear
+My charge entire; falsify not the word.195
+Bid him, relinquishing the fight, withdraw
+Either to heaven, or to the boundless Deep.
+But should he disobedient prove, and scorn
+My message, let him, next, consider well
+How he will bear, powerful as he is,200
+My coming. Me I boast superior far
+In force, and elder-born; yet deems he slight
+The danger of comparison with me,
+Who am the terror of all heaven beside.
+  He spake, nor storm-wing’d Iris disobey’d,205
+But down from the Idæan summit stoop’d
+To sacred Ilium. As when snow or hail
+Flies drifted by the cloud-dispelling North,
+So swiftly, wing’d with readiness of will,
+She shot the gulf between, and standing soon210
+At glorious Neptune’s side, him thus address’d.
+  To thee, O Neptune azure-hair’d! I come
+With tidings charged from Ægis-bearing Jove.
+He bids thee cease from battle, and retire
+Either to heaven, or to the boundless Deep.215
+But shouldst thou, disobedient, set at nought
+His words, he threatens that himself will haste
+To fight against thee; but he bids thee shun
+That strife with one superior far to thee,
+And elder-born; yet deem’st thou slight, he saith,220
+The danger of comparison with Him,
+Although the terror of all heaven beside.
+  Her then the mighty Shaker of the shores
+Answer’d indignant. Great as is his power,
+Yet he hath spoken proudly, threatening me225
+With force, high-born and glorious as himself.
+We are three brothers; Saturn is our sire,
+And Rhea brought us forth; first, Jove she bore;
+Me next; then, Pluto, Sovereign of the shades.
+By distribution tripart we received230
+Each his peculiar honors; me the lots
+Made Ruler of the hoary floods, and there
+I dwell for ever. Pluto, for his part,
+The regions took of darkness; and the heavens,
+The clouds, and boundless æther, fell to Jove.235
+The Earth and the Olympian heights alike
+Are common to the three. My life and being
+I hold not, therefore, at his will, whose best
+And safest course, with all his boasted power,
+Were to possess in peace his proper third.240
+Let him not seek to terrify with force
+Me like a dastard; let him rather chide
+His own-begotten; with big-sounding words
+His sons and daughters govern, who perforce
+Obey his voice, and shrink at his commands.245
+  To whom thus Iris tempest-wing’d replied,
+Cœrulean-tress’d Sovereign of the Deep!
+Shall I report to Jove, harsh as it is,
+Thy speech, or wilt thou soften it? The wise
+Are flexible, and on the elder-born250
+Erynnis, with her vengeful sisters, waits.[7]
+  Her answer’d then the Shaker of the shores.
+Prudent is thy advice, Iris divine!
+Discretion in a messenger is good
+At all times. But the cause that fires me thus,255
+And with resentment my whole heart and mind
+Possesses, is the license that he claims
+To vex with provocation rude of speech
+Me his compeer, and by decree of Fate
+Illustrious as himself; yet, though incensed,260
+And with just cause, I will not now persist.
+But hear—for it is treasured in my heart
+The threat that my lips utter. If he still
+Resolve to spare proud Ilium in despite
+Of me, of Pallas, Goddess of the spoils,265
+Of Juno, Mercury, and the King of fire,
+And will not overturn her lofty towers,
+Nor grant immortal glory to the Greeks,
+Then tell him thus—hostility shall burn,
+And wrath between us never to be quench’d.270
+  So saying, the Shaker of the shores forsook
+The Grecian host, and plunged into the deep,
+Miss’d by Achaia’s heroes. Then, the cloud-Assembler
+God thus to Apollo spake.
+  Hence, my Apollo! to the Trojan Chief275
+Hector; for earth-encircler Neptune, awed
+By fear of my displeasure imminent,
+Hath sought the sacred Deep. Else, all the Gods
+Who compass Saturn in the nether realms,
+Had even there our contest heard, I ween,280
+And heard it loudly. But that he retreats
+Although at first incensed, shunning my wrath,
+Is salutary both for him and me,
+Whose difference else had not been healed with ease.
+Take thou my shaggy Ægis, and with force285
+Smiting it, terrify the Chiefs of Greece.
+As for illustrious Hector, him I give
+To thy peculiar care; fail not to rouse
+His fiercest courage, till he push the Greeks
+To Hellespont, and to their ships again;290
+Thenceforth to yield to their afflicted host
+Some pause from toil, shall be my own concern.
+  He ended, nor Apollo disobey’d
+His father’s voice; from the Idæan heights,
+Swift as the swiftest of the fowls of air,295
+The dove-destroyer falcon, down he flew.
+The noble Hector, valiant Priam’s son
+He found, not now extended on the plain,
+But seated; newly, as from death, awaked,
+And conscious of his friends; freely he breathed300
+Nor sweated more, by Jove himself revived.
+Apollo stood beside him, and began.
+  Say, Hector, Priam’s son! why sittest here
+Feeble and spiritless, and from thy host
+Apart? what new disaster hath befall’n?305
+  To whom with difficulty thus replied
+The warlike Chief.—But tell me who art Thou,
+Divine inquirer! best of powers above!
+Know’st not that dauntless Ajax me his friends
+Slaughtering at yonder ships, hath with a stone310
+Surceased from fight, smiting me on the breast?
+I thought to have beheld, this day, the dead
+In Ades, every breath so seem’d my last.
+  Then answer thus the Archer-God return’d.
+Courage this moment! such a helper Jove315
+From Ida sends thee at thy side to war
+Continual, Phœbus of the golden sword,
+Whose guardian aid both thee and lofty Troy
+Hath succor’d many a time. Therefore arise!
+Instant bid drive thy numerous charioteers320
+Their rapid steeds full on the Grecian fleet;
+I, marching at their head, will smooth, myself,
+The way before them, and will turn again
+To flight the heroes of the host of Greece.
+  He said and with new strength the Chief inspired.325
+As some stall’d horse high pamper’d, snapping short
+His cord, beats under foot the sounding soil,
+Accustom’d in smooth-sliding streams to lave
+Exulting; high he bears his head, his mane
+Wantons around his shoulders; pleased, he eyes330
+His glossy sides, and borne on pliant knees
+Soon finds the haunts where all his fellows graze;
+So bounded Hector, and his agile joints
+Plied lightly, quicken’d by the voice divine,
+And gather’d fast his charioteers to battle.335
+But as when hounds and hunters through the woods
+Rush in pursuit of stag or of wild goat,
+He, in some cave with tangled boughs o’erhung,
+Lies safe conceal’d, no destined prey of theirs,
+Till by their clamors roused, a lion grim340
+Starts forth to meet them; then, the boldest fly;
+Such hot pursuit the Danaï, with swords
+And spears of double edge long time maintain’d.
+But seeing Hector in his ranks again
+Occupied, felt at once their courage fall’n.345
+  Then, Thoas them, Andræmon’s son, address’d,
+Foremost of the Ætolians, at the spear
+Skilful, in stationary combat bold,
+And when the sons of Greece held in dispute
+The prize of eloquence, excell’d by few.350
+Prudent advising them, he thus began.
+  Ye Gods! what prodigy do I behold?
+Hath Hector, ’scaping death, risen again?
+For him, with confident persuasion all
+Believed by Telamonian Ajax slain.355
+But some Divinity hath interposed
+To rescue and save Hector, who the joints
+Hath stiffen’d of full many a valiant Greek,
+As surely now he shall; for, not without
+The Thunderer’s aid, he flames in front again.360
+But take ye all my counsel. Send we back
+The multitude into the fleet, and first
+Let us, who boast ourselves bravest in fight,
+Stand, that encountering him with lifted spears,
+We may attempt to give his rage a check.365
+To thrust himself into a band like ours
+Will, doubtless, even in Hector move a fear.
+  He ceased, with whose advice all, glad, complied.
+Then Ajax with Idomeneus of Crete,
+Teucer, Meriones, and Meges fierce370
+As Mars in battle, summoning aloud
+The noblest Greeks, in opposition firm
+To Hector and his host their bands prepared,
+While others all into the fleet retired.
+Troy’s crowded host[8] struck first. With awful strides375
+Came Hector foremost; him Apollo led,
+His shoulders wrapt in clouds, and, on his arm,
+The Ægis shagg’d terrific all around,
+Tempestuous, dazzling-bright; it was a gift
+To Jove from Vulcan, and design’d to appall,380
+And drive to flight the armies of the earth.
+Arm’d with that shield Apollo led them on.
+Firm stood the embodied Greeks; from either host
+Shrill cries arose; the arrows from the nerve
+Leap’d, and, by vigorous arms dismiss’d, the spears385
+Flew frequent; in the flesh some stood infixt
+Of warlike youths, but many, ere they reach’d
+The mark they coveted, unsated fell
+Between the hosts, and rested in the soil.
+Long as the God unagitated held390
+The dreadful disk, so long the vollied darts
+Made mutual slaughter, and the people fell;
+But when he look’d the Grecian charioteers
+Full in the face and shook it, raising high
+Himself the shout of battle, then he quell’d395
+Their spirits, then he struck from every mind
+At once all memory of their might in arms.
+As when two lions in the still, dark night
+A herd of beeves scatter or numerous flock
+Suddenly, in the absence of the guard,400
+So fled the heartless Greeks, for Phœbus sent
+Terrors among them, but renown conferr’d
+And triumph proud on Hector and his host.
+Then, in that foul disorder of the field,
+Man singled man. Arcesilaüs died405
+By Hector’s arm, and Stichius; one, a Chief[9]
+Of the Bœotians brazen-mail’d, and one,
+Menestheus’ faithful follower to the fight.
+Æneas Medon and Iäsus slew.
+Medon was spurious offspring of divine410
+Oïleus Ajax’ father, and abode
+In Phylace; for he had slain a Chief
+Brother of Eriopis the espoused
+Of brave Oïleus; but Iäsus led
+A phalanx of Athenians, and the son415
+Of Sphelus, son of Bucolus was deem’d.
+Pierced by Polydamas Mecisteus fell,
+Polites, in the van of battle, slew
+Echion, and Agenor Clonius;
+But Paris, while Deïochus to flight420
+Turn’d with the routed van, pierced him beneath
+His shoulder-blade, and urged the weapon through.
+  While them the Trojans spoil’d, meantime the Greeks,
+Entangled in the piles of the deep foss,
+Fled every way, and through necessity425
+Repass’d the wall. Then Hector with a voice
+Of loud command bade every Trojan cease
+From spoil, and rush impetuous on the fleet.
+[10]And whom I find far lingering from the ships
+Wherever, there he dies; no funeral fires430
+Brother on him, or sister, shall bestow,
+But dogs shall rend him in the sight of Troy.
+  So saying, he lash’d the shoulders of his steeds,
+And through the ranks vociferating, call’d
+His Trojans on; they, clamorous as he,435
+All lash’d their steeds, and menacing, advanced.
+Before them with his feet Apollo push’d
+The banks into the foss, bridging the gulf
+With pass commodious, both in length and breadth
+A lance’s flight, for proof of vigor hurl’d.440
+There, phalanx after phalanx, they their host
+Pour’d dense along, while Phœbus in the van
+Display’d the awful ægis, and the wall
+Levell’d with ease divine. As, on the shore
+Some wanton boy with sand builds plaything walls,445
+Then, sportive spreads them with his feet abroad,
+So thou, shaft-arm’d Apollo! that huge work
+Laborious of the Greeks didst turn with ease
+To ruin, and themselves drovest all to flight.
+They, thus enforced into the fleet, again450
+Stood fast, with mutual exhortation each
+His friend encouraging, and all the Gods
+With lifted hands soliciting aloud.
+But, more than all, Gerenian Nestor pray’d
+Fervent, Achaia’s guardian, and with arms455
+Outstretch’d toward the starry skies, exclaim’d.
+  Jove, Father! if in corn-clad Argos, one,
+One Greek hath ever, burning at thy shrine
+Fat thighs of sheep or oxen, ask’d from thee
+A safe return, whom thou hast gracious heard,460
+Olympian King! and promised what he sought,
+Now, in remembrance of it, give us help
+In this disastrous day, nor thus permit
+Their Trojan foes to tread the Grecians down!
+  So Nestor pray’d, and Jove thunder’d aloud465
+Responsive to the old Neleïan’s prayer.
+But when that voice of Ægis-bearing Jove
+The Trojans heard, more furious on the Greeks
+They sprang, all mindful of the fight. As when
+A turgid billow of some spacious sea,470
+While the wind blow that heaves its highest, borne
+Sheer o’er the vessel’s side, rolls into her,
+With such loud roar the Trojans pass’d the wall;
+In rush’d the steeds, and at the ships they waged
+Fierce battle hand to hand, from chariots, these,475
+With spears of double edge, those, from the decks
+Of many a sable bark, with naval poles
+Long, ponderous, shod with steel; for every ship
+Had such, for conflict maritime prepared.
+  While yet the battle raged only without480
+The wall, and from the ships apart, so long
+Patroclus quiet in the tent and calm
+Sat of Eurypylus, his generous friend
+Consoling with sweet converse, and his wound
+Sprinkling with drugs assuasive of his pains.485
+But soon as through the broken rampart borne
+He saw the Trojans, and the clamor heard
+And tumult of the flying Greeks, a voice
+Of loud lament uttering, with open palms
+His thighs he smote, and, sorrowful, exclaim’d.490
+  Eurypylus! although thy need be great,
+No longer may I now sit at thy side,
+Such contest hath arisen; thy servant’s voice
+Must soothe thee now, for I will to the tent
+Haste of Achilles, and exhort him forth;495
+Who knows? if such the pleasure of the Gods,
+I may prevail; friends rarely plead in vain.
+  So saying, he went. Meantime the Greeks endured
+The Trojan onset, firm, yet from the ships
+Repulsed them not, though fewer than themselves,500
+Nor could the host of Troy, breaking the ranks
+Of Greece, mix either with the camp or fleet;
+But as the line divides the plank aright,
+Stretch’d by some naval architect, whose hand
+Minerva hath accomplish’d in his art,505
+So stretch’d on them the cord of battle lay.
+Others at other ships the conflict waged,
+But Hector to the ship advanced direct
+Of glorious Ajax; for one ship they strove;
+Nor Hector, him dislodging thence, could fire510
+The fleet, nor Ajax from the fleet repulse
+Hector, conducted thither by the Gods.
+Then, noble Ajax with a spear the breast
+Pierced of Caletor, son of Clytius, arm’d
+With fire to burn his bark; sounding he fell,515
+And from his loosen’d grasp down dropp’d the brand.
+But Hector seeing his own kinsman fallen
+Beneath the sable bark, with mighty voice
+Call’d on the hosts of Lycia and of Troy.
+  Trojans and Lycians, and close-fighting sons520
+Of Dardanus, within this narrow pass
+Stand firm, retreat not, but redeem the son
+Of Clytius, lest the Grecians of his arms
+Despoil him slain in battle at the ships.
+
+  So saying, at Ajax his bright spear he cast525
+Him pierced he not, but Lycophron the son
+Of Mastor, a Cytherian, who had left
+Cytheras, fugitive for blood, and dwelt
+With Ajax. Him standing at Ajax’ side,
+He pierced above his ear; down from the stern530
+Supine he fell, and in the dust expired.
+Then, shuddering, Ajax to his brother spake.
+  Alas, my Teucer! we have lost our friend;
+Mastorides is slain, whom we received
+An inmate from Cytheræ, and with love535
+And reverence even filia,, entertain’d;
+B9 Hector pierced, he dies. Where are thy shafts
+Death-wing’d, and bow, by gift from Phœbus thine?
+  He said, whom Teucer hearing, instant ran
+With bow and well-stored quiver to his side,540
+Whence soon his arrows sought the Trojan host.
+He struck Pisenor’s son Clytus, the friend
+And charioteer of brave Polydamas,
+Offspring of Panthus, toiling with both hands
+To rule his fiery steeds; for more to please545
+The Trojans and their Chief, where stormy most
+He saw the battle, thither he had driven.
+But sudden mischief, valiant as he was,
+Found him, and such as none could waft aside,
+For right into his neck the arrow plunged,550
+And down he fell; his startled coursers shook
+Their trappings, and the empty chariot rang.
+That sound alarm’d Polydamas; he turn’d,
+And flying to their heads, consign’d them o’er
+To Protiaön’s son, Astynoüs,555
+Whom he enjoin’d to keep them in his view;
+Then, turning, mingled with the van again.
+But Teucer still another shaft produced
+Design’d for valiant Hector, whose exploits
+(Had that shaft reach’d him) at the ships of Greece560
+Had ceased for ever. But the eye of Jove,
+Guardian of Hector’s life, slept not; he took
+From Telamonian Te5cer that renown,
+And while he stood straining the twisted nerve
+Against the Trojan, snapp’d it. Devious flew565
+The steel-charged[11] arrow, and he dropp’d his bow.
+Then shuddering, to his brother thus he spake.
+  Ah! it is evident. Some Power divine
+Makes fruitless all our efforts, who hath struck
+My bow out of my hand, and snapt the cord570
+With which I strung it new at dawn of day,
+That it might bear the bound of many a shaft.
+  To whom the towering son of Telamon.
+Leave then thy bow, and let thine arrows rest,
+Which, envious of the Greeks, some God confounds,575
+That thou may’st fight with spear and buckler arm’d,
+And animate the rest. Such be our deeds
+That, should they conquer us, our foes may find
+Our ships, at least a prize not lightly won.
+  So Ajax spake; then Teucer, in his tent580
+The bow replacing, slung his fourfold shield,
+Settled on his illustrious brows his casque
+With hair high-crested, waving, as he moved,
+Terrible from above, took forth a spear
+Tough-grain’d, acuminated sharp with brass,585
+And stood, incontinent, at Ajax’ side.
+Hector perceived the change, and of the cause
+Conscious, with echoing voice call’d to his host.
+  Trojans and Lycians and close-fighting sons
+Of Dardanus, oh now, my friends, be men;590
+Now, wheresoever through the fleet dispersed,
+Call into mind the fury of your might!
+For I have seen, myself, Jove rendering vain
+The arrows of their mightiest. Man may know
+With ease the hand of interposing Jove,595
+Both whom to glory he ordains, and whom
+He weakens and aids not; so now he leaves
+The Grecians, but propitious smiles on us.
+Therefore stand fast, and whosoever gall’d
+By arrow or by spear, dies—let him die;600
+It shall not shame him that he died to serve
+His country,[12] but his children, wife and home,
+With all his heritage, shall be secure,
+Drive but the Grecians from the shores of Troy.
+  So saying, he animated each. Meantime,605
+Ajax his fellow-warriors thus address’d.
+  Shame on you all! Now, Grecians, either die,
+Or save at once your galley and yourselves.
+Hope ye, that should your ships become the prize
+Of warlike Hector, ye shall yet return610
+On foot? Or hear ye not the Chief aloud
+Summoning all his host, and publishing
+His own heart’s wish to burn your fleet with fire?
+Not to a dance, believe me, but to fight
+He calls them; therefore wiser course for us615
+Is none, than that we mingle hands with hands
+In contest obstinate, and force with force.
+Better at once to perish, or at once
+To rescue life, than to consume the time
+Hour after hour in lingering conflict vain620
+Here at the ships, with an inferior foe.
+  He said, and by his words into all hearts
+Fresh confidence infused. Then Hector smote
+Schedius, a Chief of the Phocensian powers
+And son of Perimedes; Ajax slew,625
+Meantime, a Chief of Trojan infantry,
+Laodamas, Antenor’s noble son
+While by Polydamas, a leader bold
+Of the Epeans, and Phylides’[13] friend,
+Cyllenian Otus died. Meges that sight630
+Viewing indignant on the conqueror sprang,
+But, starting wide, Polydamas escaped,
+Saved by Apollo, and his spear transpierced
+The breast of Cræsmus; on his sounding shield
+Prostrate he fell, and Meges stripp’d his arms.635
+Him so employ’d Dolops assail’d, brave son
+Of Lampus, best of men and bold in fight,
+Offspring of King Laomedon; he stood
+Full near, and through his middle buckler struck
+The son of Phyleus, but his corselet thick640
+With plates of scaly brass his life secured.
+That corselet Phyleus on a time brought home
+From Ephyre, where the Selleïs winds,
+And it was given him for his life’s defence
+In furious battle by the King of men,645
+Euphetes. Many a time had it preserved
+Unharm’d the sire, and now it saved the son.
+Then Meges, rising, with his pointed lance
+The bushy crest of Dolops’ helmet drove
+Sheer from its base; new-tinged with purple bright650
+Entire it fell and mingled with the dust.
+While thus they strove, each hoping victory,
+Came martial Menelaus to the aid
+Of Meges; spear in hand apart he stood
+By Dolops unperceived, through his back drove655
+And through his breast the spear, and far beyond.
+And down fell Dolops, forehead to the ground.
+At once both flew to strip his radiant arms,
+Then, Hector summoning his kindred, call’d
+Each to his aid, and Melanippus first,660
+Illustrious Hicetaon’s son, reproved.
+Ere yet the enemies of Troy arrived
+He in Percote fed his wandering beeves;
+But when the Danaï with all their fleet
+Came thither, then returning, he outshone665
+The noblest Trojans, and at Priam’s side
+Dwelling, was honor’d by him as a son.
+Him Hector reprimanding, stern began.
+  Are we thus slack? Can Melanippus view
+Unmoved a kinsman slain? Seest not the Greeks670
+How busy there with Dolops and his arms?
+Come on. It is no time for distant war,
+But either our Achaian foes must bleed,
+Or Ilium taken, from her topmost height
+Must stoop, and all her citizens be slain.675
+  So saying he went, whose steps the godlike Chief
+Attended; and the Telamonian, next,
+Huge Ajax, animated thus the Greeks.
+  Oh friends, be men! Deep treasure in your hearts
+An honest shame, and, fighting bravely, fear680
+Each to incur the censure of the rest.
+Of men so minded more survive than die,
+While dastards forfeit life and glory both.
+  So moved he them, themselves already bent
+To chase the Trojans; yet his word they bore685
+Faithful in mind, and with a wall of brass
+Fenced firm the fleet, while Jove impell’d the foe.
+Then Menelaus, brave in fight, approach’d
+Antilochus, and thus his courage roused.
+  Antilochus! in all the host is none690
+Younger, or swifter, or of stronger limb
+Than thou. Make trial, therefore, of thy might,
+Spring forth and prove it on some Chief of Troy.
+  He ended and retired, but him his praise
+Effectual animated; from the van695
+Starting, he cast a wistful eye around
+And hurl’d his glittering spear; back fell the ranks
+Of Troy appall’d; nor vain his weapon flew,
+But Melanippus pierced heroic son
+Of Hicetaon, coming forth to fight,700
+Full in the bosom, and with dreadful sound
+Of all his batter’d armor down he fell.
+Swift flew Antilochus as flies the hound
+Some fawn to seize, which issuing from her lair
+The hunter with his lance hath stricken dead,705
+So thee, O Melanippus! to despoil
+Of thy bright arms valiant Antilochus
+Sprang forth, but not unnoticed by the eye
+Of noble Hector, who through all the war
+Ran to encounter him; his dread approach710
+Antilochus, although expert in arms,
+Stood not, but as some prowler of the wilds,
+Conscious of injury that he hath done,
+Slaying the watchful herdsman or his dog,
+Escapes, ere yet the peasantry arise,715
+So fled the son of Nestor, after whom
+The Trojans clamoring and Hector pour’d
+Darts numberless; but at the front arrived
+Of his own phalanx, there he turn’d and stood.
+Then, eager as voracious lions, rush’d720
+The Trojans on the fleet of Greece, the mind
+Of Jove accomplishing who them impell’d
+Continual, calling all their courage forth,
+While, every Grecian heart he tamed, and took
+Their glory from them, strengthening Ilium’s host.725
+For Jove’s unalter’d purpose was to give
+Success to Priameian Hector’s arms,[14]
+That he might cast into the fleet of Greece
+Devouring flames, and that no part might fail
+Of Thetis’ ruthless prayer; that sight alone730
+He watch’d to see, one galley in a blaze,
+Ordaining foul repulse, thenceforth, and flight
+To Ilium’s host, but glory to the Greeks.
+Such was the cause for which, at first, he moved
+To that assault Hector, himself prepared735
+And ardent for the task; nor less he raged
+Than Mars while fighting, or than flames that seize
+Some forest on the mountain-tops; the foam
+Hung at his lips, beneath his awful front
+His keen eyes glisten’d, and his helmet mark’d740
+The agitation wild with which he fought.
+For Jove omnipotent, himself, from heaven
+Assisted Hector, and, although alone
+With multitudes he strove, gave him to reach
+The heights of glory, for that now his life745
+Waned fast, and, urged by Pallas on,[15] his hour
+To die by Peleus’ mighty son approach’d.
+He then, wherever richest arms he saw
+And thickest throng, the warrior-ranks essay’d
+To break, but broke them not, though fierce resolved,750
+In even square compact so firm they stood.
+As some vast rock beside the hoary Deep
+The stress endures of many a hollow wind,
+And the huge billows tumbling at his base,
+So stood the Danaï, nor fled nor fear’d.755
+But he, all-fiery bright in arms, the host
+Assail’d on every side, and on the van
+Fell, as a wave by wintry blasts upheaved
+Falls ponderous on the ship; white clings the foam
+Around her, in her sail shrill howls the storm,760
+And every seaman trembles at the view
+Of thousand deaths from which he scarce escapes,
+Such anguish rent the bosom of the Greeks.
+But he, as leaps a famish’d lion fell
+On beeves that graze some marshy meadow’s breadth,765
+A countless herd, tended by one unskill’d
+To cope with savage beasts in their defence,
+Beside the foremost kine or with the last
+He paces heedless, but the lion, borne
+Impetuous on the midmost, one devours770
+And scatters all the rest,[16] so fled the Greeks,
+Terrified from above, before the arm
+Of Hector, and before the frown of Jove.
+All fled, but of them all alone he slew
+The Mycenæan Periphetes, son775
+Of Copreus custom’d messenger of King
+Eurystheus to the might of Hercules.
+From such a sire inglorious had arisen
+A son far worthier, with all virtue graced,
+Swift-footed, valiant, and by none excell’d780
+In wisdom of the Mycenæan name;
+Yet all but served to ennoble Hector more.
+For Periphetes, with a backward step
+Retiring, on his buckler’s border trod,
+Which swept his heels; so check’d, he fell supine,785
+And dreadful rang the helmet on his brows.
+Him Hector quick noticing, to his side
+Hasted, and, planting in his breast a spear,
+Slew him before the phalanx of his friends.
+But they, although their fellow-warrior’s fate790
+They mourn’d, no succor interposed, or could,
+Themselves by noble Hector sore appall’d.
+  And now behind the ships (all that updrawn
+Above the shore, stood foremost of the fleet)
+The Greeks retired; in rush’d a flood of foes;795
+Then, through necessity, the ships in front
+Abandoning, amid the tents they stood
+Compact, not disarray’d, for shame and fear
+Fast held them, and vociferating each
+Aloud, call’d ceaseless on the rest to stand.800
+But earnest more than all, guardian of all,
+Gerenian Nestor in their parents’ name
+Implored them, falling at the knees of each.
+  Oh friends! be men. Now dearly prize your place
+Each in the estimation of the rest.805
+Now call to memory your children, wives,
+Possessions, parents; ye whose parents live,
+And ye whose parents are not, all alike!
+By them as if here present, I entreat
+That ye stand fast—oh be not turn’d to flight!810
+  So saying he roused the courage of the Greeks;
+Then, Pallas chased the cloud fall’n from above
+On every eye; great light the plain illumed
+On all sides, both toward the fleet, and where
+The undiscriminating battle raged.815
+Then might be seen Hector and Hector’s host
+Distinct, as well the rearmost who the fight
+Shared not, as those who waged it at the ships.
+  To stand aloof where other Grecians stood
+No longer now would satisfy the mind820
+Of Ajax, but from deck to deck with strides
+Enormous marching, to and fro he swung
+With iron studs emboss’d a battle-pole
+Unwieldy, twenty and two cubits long.
+As one expert to spring from horse to horse,825
+From many steeds selecting four, toward
+Some noble city drives them from the plain
+Along the populous road; him many a youth
+And many a maiden eyes, while still secure
+From steed to steed he vaults; they rapid fly;830
+So Ajax o’er the decks of numerous ships
+Stalk’d striding large, and sent his voice to heaven.
+Thus, ever clamoring, he bade the Greeks
+Stand both for camp and fleet. Nor could himself
+Hector, contented, now, the battle wage835
+Lost in the multitude of Trojans more,
+But as the tawny eagle on full wing
+Assails the feather’d nations, geese or cranes
+Or swans lithe-neck’d grazing the river’s verge,
+So Hector at a galley sable-prow’d840
+Darted; for, from behind, Jove urged him on
+With mighty hand, and his host after him.
+And now again the battle at the ships
+Grew furious; thou hadst deem’d them of a kind
+By toil untameable, so fierce they strove,845
+And, striving, thus they fought. The Grecians judged
+Hope vain, and the whole host’s destruction sure;
+But nought expected every Trojan less
+Than to consume the fleet with fire, and leave
+Achaia’s heroes lifeless on the field.850
+With such persuasions occupied, they fought.
+  Then Hector seized the stern of a brave bark
+Well-built, sharp-keel’d, and of the swiftest sail,
+Which had to Troy Protesiläus brought,
+But bore him never thence. For that same ship855
+Contending, Greeks and Trojans hand to hand
+Dealt slaughter mutual. Javelins now no more
+Might serve them, or the arrow-starting bow,
+But close conflicting and of one mind all
+With bill and battle-axe, with ponderous swords,860
+And with long lances double-edged they fought.
+Many a black-hilted falchion huge of haft
+Fell to the ground, some from the grasp, and some
+From shoulders of embattled warriors hewn,
+And pools of blood soak’d all the sable glebe.865
+Hector that ship once grappled by the stern
+Left not, but griping fast her upper edge
+With both hands, to his Trojans call’d aloud.
+  Fire! Bring me fire! Stand fast and shout to heaven!
+Jove gives us now a day worth all the past;870
+The ships are ours which, in the Gods’ despite
+Steer’d hither, such calamities to us
+Have caused, for which our seniors most I blame
+Who me withheld from battle at the fleet
+And check’d the people; but if then the hand875
+Of Thunderer Jove our better judgment marr’d,
+Himself now urges and commands us on.
+  He ceased; they still more violent assail’d
+The Grecians. Even Ajax could endure,
+Whelm’d under weapons numberless, that storm880
+No longer, but expecting death retired
+Down from the decks to an inferior stand,
+Where still he watch’d, and if a Trojan bore
+Fire thither, he repulsed him with his spear,
+Roaring continual to the host of Greece.885
+  Friends! Grecian heroes! ministers of Mars!
+Be men, my friends! now summon all your might!
+Think we that we have thousands at our backs
+To succor us, or yet some stronger wall
+To guard our warriors from the battle’s force?890
+Not so. No tower’d city is at hand,
+None that presents us with a safe retreat
+While others occupy our station here,
+But from the shores of Argos far remote
+Our camp is, where the Trojans arm’d complete895
+Swarm on the plain, and Ocean shuts us in.
+Our hands must therefore save us, not our heels
+  He said, and furious with his spear again
+Press’d them, and whatsoever Trojan came,
+Obsequious to the will of Hector, arm’d900
+With fire to burn the fleet, on his spear’s point
+Ajax receiving pierced him, till at length
+Twelve in close fight fell by his single arm.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XVI.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE SIXTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Achilles, at the suit of Patroclus, grants him his own armor, and
+permission to lead the Myrmidons to battle. They, sallying, repulse the
+Trojans. Patroclus slays Sarpedon, and Hector, when Apollo had first
+stripped off his armor and Euphorbus wounded him, slays Patroclus.
+
+
+BOOK XVI.
+
+
+Such contest for that gallant bark they waged.
+Meantime Patroclus, standing at the side
+Of the illustrious Chief Achilles, wept
+Fast as a crystal fountain from the height
+Of some rude rock pours down its rapid[1] stream.5
+Divine Achilles with compassion moved
+Mark’d him, and in wing’d accents thus began.[2]
+  Who weeps Patroclus like an infant girl
+Who, running at her mother’s side, entreats
+To be uplifted in her arms? She grasps10
+Her mantle, checks her haste, and looking up
+With tearful eyes, pleads earnest to be borne;
+So fall, Patroclus! thy unceasing tears.
+Bring’st thou to me or to my people aught
+Afflictive? Hast thou mournful tidings learn’d15
+Prom Phthia, trusted to thy ear alone?
+Menœtius, son of Actor, as they say,
+Still lives; still lives his Myrmidons among
+Peleus Æacides; whom, were they dead,
+With cause sufficient we should both deplore.20
+Or weep’st thou the Achaians at the ships
+Perishing, for their outrage done to me?
+Speak. Name thy trouble. I would learn the cause
+  To whom, deep-sorrowing, thou didst reply,
+Patroclus! Oh Achilles, Peleus’ son!25
+Noblest of all our host! bear with my grief,
+Since such distress hath on the Grecians fallen.
+The bravest of their ships disabled lie,
+Some wounded from afar, some hand to hand.
+Diomede, warlike son of Tydeus, bleeds,30
+Gall’d by a shaft; Ulysses, glorious Chief,
+And Agamemnon suffer by the spear,
+And brave Eurypylus an arrow-point
+Bears in his thigh. These all, are now the care
+Of healing hands. Oh thou art pity-proof,35
+Achilles! be my bosom ever free
+From anger such as harbor finds in thine,
+Scorning all limits! whom, of men unborn,
+Hereafter wilt thou save, from whom avert
+Disgrace, if not from the Achaians now?40
+Ah ruthless! neither Peleus thee begat,
+Nor Thetis bore, but rugged rocks sublime,
+And roaring billows blue gave birth to thee,
+Who bear’st a mind that knows not to relent,
+But, if some prophecy alarm thy fears,45
+If from thy Goddess-mother thou have aught
+Received, and with authority of Jove,
+Me send at least, me quickly, and with me
+The Myrmidons. A dawn of cheerful hope
+Shall thence, it may be, on the Greeks arise.50
+Grant me thine armor also, that the foe
+Thyself supposing present, may abstain
+From battle, and the weary Greeks enjoy
+Short respite; it is all that war allows.
+We, fresh and vigorous, by our shouts alone55
+May easily repulse an army spent
+With labor from the camp, and from the fleet,
+  Such suit he made, alas! all unforewarn’d
+That his own death should be the bitter fruit,
+And thus Achilles, sorrowful, replied.60
+  Patroclus, noble friend! what hast thou spoken?
+Me neither prophesy that I have heard
+Holds in suspense, nor aught that I have learn’d
+From Thetis with authority of Jove!
+Hence springs, and hence alone, my grief of heart;65
+If one, in nought superior to myself
+Save in his office only, should by force
+Amerce me of my well-earn’d recompense—
+How then? There lies the grief that stings my soul.
+The virgin chosen for me by the sons70
+Of Greece, my just reward, by my own spear
+Obtain’d when I Eëtion’s city took,
+Her, Agamemnon, leader of the host
+From my possession wrung, as I had been
+Some alien wretch, unhonor’d and unknown.75
+But let it pass; anger is not a flame
+To feed for ever; I affirm’d, indeed,
+Mine inextinguishable till the shout
+Of battle should invade my proper barks;
+But thou put on my glorious arms, lead forth80
+My valiant Myrmidons, since such a cloud,
+So dark, of dire hostility surrounds
+The fleet, and the Achaians, by the waves
+Hemm’d in, are prison’d now in narrow space.
+Because the Trojans meet not in the field85
+My dazzling helmet, therefore bolder grown
+All Ilium comes abroad; but had I found
+Kindness at royal Agamemnon’s hands,
+Soon had they fled, and with their bodies chok’d
+The streams, from whom ourselves now suffer siege90
+For in the hands of Diomede his spear
+No longer rages rescuing from death
+The afflicted Danaï, nor hear I more
+The voice of Agamemnon issuing harsh
+From his detested throat, but all around95
+The burst[3] of homicidal Hector’s cries,
+Calling his Trojans on; they loud insult
+The vanquish’d Greeks, and claim the field their own.
+Go therefore, my Patroclus; furious fall
+On these assailants, even now preserve100
+From fire the only hope of our return.
+But hear the sum of all; mark well my word;
+So shalt thou glorify me in the eyes
+Of all the Danaï, and they shall yield
+Brisëis mine, with many a gift beside.105
+The Trojans from the fleet expell’d, return.
+Should Juno’s awful spouse give thee to win
+Victory, be content; seek not to press
+The Trojans without me, for thou shalt add
+Still more to the disgrace already mine.[4]110
+Much less, by martial ardor urged, conduct
+Thy slaughtering legions to the walls of Troy,
+Lest some immortal power on her behalf
+Descend, for much the Archer of the skies
+Loves Ilium. No—the fleet once saved, lead back115
+Thy band, and leave the battle to themselves.
+For oh, by all the powers of heaven I would
+That not one Trojan might escape of all,
+Nor yet a Grecian, but that we, from death
+Ourselves escaping, might survive to spread120
+Troy’s sacred bulwarks on the ground, alone.
+  Thus they conferr’d. [5]But Ajax overwhelm’d
+Meantime with darts, no longer could endure,
+Quell’d both by Jupiter and by the spears
+Of many a noble Trojan; hideous rang125
+His batter’d helmet bright, stroke after stroke
+Sustaining on all sides, and his left arm
+That had so long shifted from side to side
+His restless shield, now fail’d; yet could not all
+Displace him with united force, or move.130
+Quick pantings heaved his chest, copious the sweat
+Trickled from all his limbs, nor found he time,
+However short, to breathe again, so close
+Evil on evil heap’d hemm’d him around.
+  Olympian Muses! now declare, how first135
+The fire was kindled in Achaia’s fleet?
+  Hector the ashen lance of Ajax smote
+With his broad falchion, at the nether end,
+And lopp’d it sheer. The Telamonian Chief
+His mutilated beam brandish’d in vain,140
+And the bright point shrill-sounding-fell remote.
+Then Ajax in his noble mind perceived,
+Shuddering with awe, the interposing power
+Of heaven, and that, propitious to the arms
+Of Troy, the Thunderer had ordain’d to mar145
+And frustrate all the counsels of the Greeks.
+He left his stand; they fired the gallant bark;
+Through all her length the conflagration ran
+Incontinent, and wrapp’d her stern in flames.
+Achilles saw them, smote his thighs, and said,150
+  Patroclus, noble charioteer, arise!
+I see the rapid run of hostile fires
+Already in the fleet—lest all be lost,
+And our return impossible, arm, arm
+This moment; I will call, myself, the band.155
+  Then put Patroclus on his radiant arms.
+Around his legs his polish’d greaves he clasp’d,
+With argent studs secured; the hauberk rich
+Star-spangled to his breast he bound of swift
+Æacides; he slung his brazen sword160
+With silver bright emboss’d, and his broad shield
+Ponderous; on his noble head his casque
+He settled elegant, whose lofty crest
+Waved dreadful o’er his brows, and last he seized
+Well fitted to his gripe two sturdy spears.165
+Of all Achilles’ arms his spear alone
+He took not; that huge beam, of bulk and length
+Enormous, none, Æacides except,
+In all Achaia’s host had power to wield.
+It was that Pelian ash which from the top170
+Of Pelion hewn that it might prove the death
+Of heroes, Chiron had to Peleus given.
+He bade Automedon his coursers bind
+Speedily to the yoke, for him he loved
+Next to Achilles most, as worthiest found175
+Of trust, what time the battle loudest roar’d.
+Then led Automedon the fiery steeds
+Swift as wing’d tempests to the chariot-yoke,
+Xanthus and Balius. Them the harpy bore
+Podarge, while in meadows green she fed180
+On Ocean’s side, to Zephyrus the wind.
+To these he added, at their side, a third,
+The noble Pedasus; him Peleus’ son,
+Eëtion’s city taken, thence had brought,
+Though mortal, yet a match for steeds divine.185
+Meantime from every tent Achilles call’d
+And arm’d his Myrmidons. As wolves that gorge
+The prey yet panting, terrible in force,
+When on the mountains wild they have devour’d
+An antler’d stag new-slain, with bloody jaws190
+Troop all at once to some clear fountain, there
+To lap with slender tongues the brimming wave;
+No fears have they, but at their ease eject
+From full maws flatulent the clotted gore;
+Such seem’d the Myrmidon heroic Chiefs195
+Assembling fast around the valiant friend
+Of swift Æacides. Amid them stood
+Warlike Achilles, the well-shielded ranks
+Exhorting, and the steeds, to glorious war.
+  The galleys by Achilles dear to Jove200
+Commanded, when to Ilium’s coast he steer’d,
+Were fifty; fifty rowers sat in each,
+And five, in whom he trusted, o’er the rest
+He captains named, but ruled, himself, supreme.
+One band Menestheus swift in battle led,205
+Offspring of Sperchius heaven-descended stream.
+Him Polydora, Peleus’ daughter, bore
+To ever-flowing Sperchius, compress’d,
+Although a mortal woman, by a God.
+But his reputed father was the son210
+Of Perieres, Borus, who with dower
+Enrich’d, and made her openly his bride.
+Warlike Eudorus led the second band.
+Him Polymela, graceful in the dance,
+And daughter beautiful of Phylas, bore,215
+A mother unsuspected of a child.
+Her worshiping the golden-shafted Queen
+Diana, in full choir, with song and dance,
+The valiant Argicide[6] beheld and loved.
+Ascending with her to an upper room,220
+All-bounteous Mercury[7] clandestine there
+Embraced her, who a noble son produced
+Eudorus, swift to run, and bold in fight.
+No sooner Ilithya, arbitress
+Of pangs puerperal, had given him birth,225
+And he beheld the beaming sun, than her
+Echechleus, Actor’s mighty son, enrich’d
+With countless dower, and led her to his home;
+While ancient Phylas, cherishing her boy
+With fond affection, reared him as his own.230
+The third brave troop warlike Pisander led,
+Offspring of Maimalus; he far excell’d
+In spear-fight every Myrmidon, the friend
+Of Peleus’ dauntless son alone except.
+The hoary Phœnix of equestrian fame235
+The fourth band led to battle, and the fifth
+Laërceus’ offspring, bold Alcimedon.
+Thus, all his bands beneath their proper Chiefs
+Marshall’d, Achilles gave them strict command—
+  Myrmidons! all that vengeance now inflict,240
+Which in this fleet ye ceased not to denounce
+Against the Trojans while my wrath endured.
+Me censuring, ye have proclaim’d me oft
+Obdurate. Oh Achilles! ye have said,
+Thee not with milk thy mother but with bile245
+Suckled, who hold’st thy people here in camp
+Thus long imprison’d. Unrelenting Chief!
+Even let us hence in our sea-skimming barks
+To Phthia, since thou can’st not be appeased—
+Thus in full council have ye spoken oft.250
+Now, therefore, since a day of glorious toil
+At last appears, such as ye have desired,
+There lies the field—go—give your courage proof.
+  So them he roused, and they, their leader’s voice
+Hearing elate, to closest order drew.255
+As when an architect some palace wall
+With shapely stones upbuilds, cementing close
+A barrier against all the winds of heaven,
+So wedged, the helmets and boss’d bucklers stood;
+Shield, helmet, man, press’d helmet, man, and shield,260
+And every bright-arm’d warrior’s bushy crest
+Its fellow swept, so dense was their array.
+In front of all, two Chiefs their station took,
+Patroclus and Automedon; one mind
+In both prevail’d, to combat in the van265
+Of all the Myrmidons. Achilles, then,
+Retiring to his tent, displaced the lid
+Of a capacious chest magnificent
+By silver-footed Thetis stow’d on board
+His bark, and fill’d with tunics, mantles warm,270
+And gorgeous arras; there he also kept
+Secure a goblet exquisitely wrought,
+Which never lip touched save his own, and whence
+He offer’d only to the Sire of all.
+That cup producing from the chest, he first275
+With sulphur fumed it, then with water rinsed
+Pellucid of the running stream, and, last
+(His hands clean laved) he charged it high with wine.
+And now, advancing to his middle court,
+He pour’d libation, and with eyes to heaven280
+Uplifted pray’d,[8] of Jove not unobserved.
+  Pelasgian, Dodonæan Jove supreme,
+Dwelling remote, who on Dodona’s heights
+Snow-clad reign’st Sovereign, by thy seers around
+Compass’d the Selli, prophets vow-constrain’d285
+To unwash’d feet and slumbers on the ground!
+Plain I behold my former prayer perform’d,
+Myself exalted, and the Greeks abased.
+Now also grant me, Jove, this my desire!
+Here, in my fleet, I shall myself abide,290
+But lo! with all these Myrmidons I send
+My friend to battle. Thunder-rolling Jove,
+Send glory with him, make his courage firm!
+That even Hector may himself be taught,
+If my companion have a valiant heart295
+When he goes forth alone, or only then
+The noble frenzy feels that Mars inspires
+When I rush also to the glorious field.
+But when he shall have driven the battle-shout
+Once from the fleet, grant him with all his arms,300
+None lost, himself unhurt, and my whole band
+Of dauntless warriors with him, safe return!
+  Such prayer Achilles offer’d, and his suit
+Jove hearing, part confirm’d, and part refused;
+To chase the dreadful battle from the fleet305
+He gave him, but vouchsafed him no return.
+Prayer and libation thus perform’d to Jove
+The Sire of all, Achilles to his tent
+Return’d, replaced the goblet in his chest,
+And anxious still that conflict to behold310
+Between the hosts, stood forth before his tent.
+  Then rush’d the bands by brave Patroclus led,
+Full on the Trojan host. As wasps forsake
+Their home by the way-side, provoked by boys
+Disturbing inconsiderate their abode,315
+Not without nuisance sore to all who pass,
+For if, thenceforth, some traveller unaware
+Annoy them, issuing one and all they swarm
+Around him, fearless in their broods’ defence,
+So issued from their fleet the Myrmidons320
+Undaunted; clamor infinite arose,
+And thus Patroclus loud his host address’d.
+  Oh Myrmidons, attendants in the field
+On Peleus’ son, now be ye men, my friends!
+Call now to mind the fury of your might;325
+That we, close-fighting servants of the Chief
+Most excellent in all the camp of Greece,
+May glory gain for him, and that the wide-
+Commanding Agamemnon, Atreus’ son,
+May learn his fault, that he dishonor’d foul330
+The prince in whom Achaia glories most.
+  So saying he fired their hearts, and on the van
+Of Troy at once they fell; loud shouted all
+The joyful Grecians, and the navy rang.
+Then, soon as Ilium’s host the valiant son335
+Saw of Menœtius and his charioteer
+In dazzling armor clad, all courage lost,
+Their closest ranks gave way, believing sure
+That, wrath renounced, and terms of friendship chosen,
+Achilles’ self was there; thus thinking, each340
+Look’d every way for refuge from his fate.
+  Patroclus first, where thickest throng he saw
+Gather’d tumultuous around the bark
+Of brave Protesilaüs, hurl’d direct
+At the whole multitude his glittering spear.345
+He smote Pyræchmes; he his horsemen band
+Pœonian led from Amydon, and from
+Broad-flowing Axius. In his shoulder stood
+The spear, and with loud groans supine he fell.
+At once fled all his followers, on all sides350
+With consternation fill’d, seeing their Chief
+And their best warrior, by Patroclus slain.
+Forth from the fleet he drove them, quench’d the flames,
+And rescued half the ship. Then scatter’d fled
+With infinite uproar the host of Troy,355
+While from between their ships the Danaï
+Pour’d after them, and hideous rout ensued.
+As when the king of lightnings, Jove, dispels
+From some huge eminence a gloomy cloud,
+The groves, the mountain-tops, the headland heights360
+Shine all, illumined from the boundless heaven,
+So when the Danaï those hostile fires
+Had from their fleet expell’d, awhile they breathed,
+Yet found short respite, for the battle yet
+Ceased not, nor fled the Trojans in all parts365
+Alike, but still resisted, from the ships
+Retiring through necessity alone.
+Then, in that scatter’d warfare, every Chief
+Slew one. While Areïlochus his back
+Turn’d on Patroclus, sudden with a lance370
+His thigh he pierced, and urged the weapon through,
+Shivering the bone; he headlong smote the ground.
+The hero Menelaus, where he saw
+The breast of Thoas by his slanting shield
+Unguarded, struck and stretch’d him at his feet.375
+Phylides,[9] meeting with preventive spear
+The furious onset of Amphiclus, gash’d
+His leg below the knee, where brawny most
+The muscles swell in man; disparted wide
+The tendons shrank, and darkness veil’d his eyes.380
+The two Nestoridæ slew each a Chief.
+Of these, Antilochus Atymnius pierced
+Right through his flank, and at his feet he fell.
+With fierce resentment fired Maris beheld
+His brother’s fall, and guarding, spear in hand,385
+The slain, impetuous on the conqueror flew;
+But godlike Thrasymedes[10] wounded first
+Maris, ere he Antilochus; he pierced
+His upper arm, and with the lance’s point
+Rent off and stript the muscles to the bone.390
+Sounding he fell, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+They thus, two brothers by two brothers slain,
+Went down to Erebus, associates both
+Of brave Sarpedon, and spear-practised sons
+Of Amisodarus; of him who fed395
+Chimæra,[11] monster, by whom many died.
+Ajax the swift on Cleobulus sprang,
+Whom while he toil’d entangled in the crowd,
+He seized alive, but smote him where he stood
+With his huge-hafted sword full on the neck;400
+The blood warm’d all his blade, and ruthless fate
+Benighted dark the dying warrior’s eyes.
+Peneleus into close contention rush’d
+And Lycon. Each had hurl’d his glittering spear,
+But each in vain, and now with swords they met.405
+He smote Peneleus on the crested casque,
+But snapp’d his falchion; him Peneleus smote
+Beneath his ear; the whole blade entering sank
+Into his neck, and Lycon with his head
+Depending by the skin alone, expired.410
+Meriones o’ertaking Acamas
+Ere yet he could ascend his chariot, thrust
+A lance into his shoulder; down he fell
+In dreary death’s eternal darkness whelm’d.
+Idomeneus his ruthless spear enforced415
+Into the mouth of Erymas. The point
+Stay’d not, but gliding close beneath the brain,
+Transpierced his spine,[12] and started forth beyond.
+It wrench’d his teeth, and fill’d his eyes with blood;
+Blood also blowing through his open mouth420
+And nostrils, to the realms of death he pass’d.
+Thus slew these Grecian leaders, each, a foe.
+  Sudden as hungry wolves the kids purloin
+Or lambs, which haply some unheeding swain
+Hath left to roam at large the mountains wild;425
+They, seeing, snatch them from beside the dams,
+And rend incontinent the feeble prey,
+So swift the Danaï the host assail’d
+Of Ilium; they, into tumultuous flight
+Together driven, all hope, all courage lost.430
+  Huge Ajax ceaseless sought his spear to cast
+At Hector brazen-mail’d, who, not untaught
+The warrior’s art, with bull-hide buckler stood
+Sheltering his ample shoulders, while he mark’d
+The hiss of flying shafts and crash of spears.435
+Full sure he saw the shifting course of war
+Now turn’d, but scorning flight, bent all his thoughts
+To rescue yet the remnant of his friends.
+  As when the Thunderer spreads a sable storm
+O’er ether, late serene, the cloud that wrapp’d440
+Olympus’ head escapes into the skies,
+So fled the Trojans from the fleet of Greece
+Clamoring in their flight, nor pass’d the trench
+In fair array; the coursers fleet indeed
+Of Hector, him bore safe with all his arms445
+Right through, but in the foss entangled foul
+He left his host, and struggling to escape.
+Then many a chariot-whirling steed, the pole
+Broken at its extremity, forsook
+His driver, while Patroclus with the shout450
+Of battle calling his Achaians on,
+Destruction purposed to the powers of Troy.
+They, once dispersed, with clamor and with flight
+Fill’d all the ways, the dust beneath the clouds
+Hung like a tempest, and the steeds firm-hoof’d455
+Whirl’d off at stretch the chariots to the town.
+He, wheresoe’er most troubled he perceived
+The routed host, loud-threatening thither drove,
+While under his own axle many a Chief
+Fell prone, and the o’ertumbled chariots rang.460
+Right o’er the hollow foss the coursers leap’d
+Immortal, by the Gods to Peleus given,
+Impatient for the plain, nor less desire
+Felt he who drove to smite the Trojan Chief,
+But him his fiery steeds caught swift away.465
+  As when a tempest from autumnal skies
+Floats all the fields, what time Jove heaviest pours
+Impetuous rain, token of wrath divine
+Against perverters of the laws by force,
+Who drive forth justice, reckless of the Gods;470
+The rivers and the torrents, where they dwell,
+Sweep many a green declivity away,
+And plunge at length, groaning, into the Deep
+From the hills headlong, leaving where they pass’d
+No traces of the pleasant works of man,475
+So, in their flight, loud groan’d the steeds of Troy.
+And now, their foremost intercepted all,
+Patroclus back again toward the fleet
+Drove them precipitate, nor the ascent
+Permitted them to Troy for which they strove,480
+But in the midway space between the ships
+The river and the lofty Trojan wall
+Pursued them ardent, slaughtering whom he reached,
+And vengeance took for many a Grecian slain.
+First then, with glittering spear the breast he pierced485
+Of Pronöus, undefended by his shield,
+And stretch’d him dead; loud rang his batter’d arms.
+The son of Enops, Thestor next he smote.
+He on his chariot-seat magnificent
+Low-cowering sat, a fear-distracted form,490
+And from his palsied grasp the reins had fallen.
+Then came Patroclus nigh, and through his cheek
+His teeth transpiercing, drew him by his lance
+Sheer o’er the chariot front. As when a man
+On some projecting rock seated, with line495
+And splendid hook draws forth a sea-fish huge,
+So him wide-gaping from his seat he drew
+At his spear-point, then shook him to the ground
+Prone on his face, where gasping he expired.
+At Eryalus, next, advancing swift500
+He hurl’d a rock; full on the middle front
+He smote him, and within the ponderous casque
+His whole head open’d into equal halves.
+With deadliest night surrounded, prone he fell.
+Epaltes, Erymas, Amphoterus,505
+Echius, Tlepolemus Damastor’s son,
+Evippus, Ipheus, Pyres, Polymelus,
+All these he on the champain, corse on corse
+Promiscuous flung. Sarpedon, when he saw
+Such havoc made of his uncinctured[13] friends510
+By Menœtiades, with sharp rebuke
+His band of godlike Lycians loud address’d.
+  Shame on you, Lycians! whither would ye fly?
+Now are ye swift indeed! I will oppose
+Myself this conqueror, that I may learn515
+Who thus afflicts the Trojan host, of life
+Bereaving numerous of their warriors bold.
+  He said, and with his arms leap’d to the ground.
+On the other side, Patroclus at that sight
+Sprang from his chariot. As two vultures clash520
+Bow-beak’d, crook-talon’d, on some lofty rock
+Clamoring both, so they together rush’d
+With clamors loud; whom when the son observed
+Of wily Saturn, with compassion moved
+His sister and his spouse he thus bespake.525
+  Alas, he falls! my most beloved of men
+Sarpedon, vanquished by Patroclus, falls!
+So will the Fates. Yet, doubtful, much I muse
+Whether to place him, snatch’d from furious fight
+In Lycia’s wealthy realm, or to permit530
+His death by valiant Menœtiades.
+  To whom his awful spouse, displeased, replied.
+How speaks the terrible Saturnian Jove!
+Wouldst thou again from pangs of death exempt
+A mortal man, destined long since to die?535
+Do it. But small thy praise shall be in heaven,
+Mark thou my words, and in thy inmost breast
+Treasure them. If thou send Sarpedon safe
+To his own home, how many Gods _their_ sons
+May also send from battle? Weigh it well.540
+For under yon great city fight no few
+Sprung from Immortals whom thou shalt provoke.
+But if thou love him, and thine heart his lot
+Commiserate, leave him by the hands to fall
+Of Menœtiades in conflict dire;545
+But give command to Death and gentle Sleep
+That him of life bereft at once they bear
+To Lycia’s ample realm,[14] where, with due rites
+Funereal, his next kindred and his friends
+Shall honor him, a pillar and a tomb550
+(The dead man’s portion) rearing to his name.
+  She said, from whom the Sire of Gods and men
+Dissented not, but on the earth distill’d
+A sanguine shower in honor of a son
+Dear to him, whom Patroclus on the field555
+Of fruitful Troy should slay, far from his home.
+  Opposite now, small interval between,
+Those heroes stood. Patroclus at his waist
+Pierced Thrasymelus the illustrious friend
+Of King Sarpedon, and his charioteer.560
+Spear’d through the lower bowels, dead he fell.
+Then hurl’d Sarpedon in his turn a lance,
+But miss’d Patroclus and the shoulder pierced
+Of Pedasus the horse; he groaning heaved
+His spirit forth, and fallen on the field565
+In long loud moanings sorrowful expired.
+Wide started the immortal pair; the yoke
+Creak’d, and entanglement of reins ensued
+To both, their fellow slaughter’d at their side.
+That mischief soon Automedon redress’d.570
+He rose, and from beside his sturdy thigh
+Drawing his falchion, with effectual stroke
+Cut loose the side-horse; then the pair reduced
+To order, in their traces stood composed,
+And the two heroes fierce engaged again.575
+  Again his radiant spear Sarpedon hurl’d,
+But miss’d Patroclus; the innocuous point,
+O’erflying his left shoulder, pass’d beyond.
+Then with bright lance Patroclus in his turn
+Assail’d Sarpedon, nor with erring course580
+The weapon sped or vain, but pierced profound
+His chest, enclosure of the guarded heart.
+As falls an oak, poplar, or lofty pine
+With new-edged axes on the mountains hewn
+Right through, for structure of some gallant bark,585
+So fell Sarpedon stretch’d his steeds before
+And gnash’d his teeth and clutch’d the bloody dust,
+And as a lion slays a tawny bull
+Leader magnanimous of all the herd;
+Beneath the lion’s jaws groaning he dies;590
+So, leader of the shielded Lycians groan’d
+Indignant, by Patroclus slain, the bold
+Sarpedon, and his friend thus, sad, bespake.
+  Glaucus, my friend, among these warring Chiefs
+Thyself a Chief illustrious! thou hast need595
+Of all thy valor now; now strenuous fight,
+And, if thou bear within thee a brave mind,
+Now make the war’s calamities thy joy.
+First, marching through the host of Lycia, rouse
+Our Chiefs to combat for Sarpedon slain,600
+Then haste, thyself, to battle for thy friend.
+For shame and foul dishonor which no time
+Shall e’er obliterate, I must prove to thee,
+Should the Achaians of my glorious arms
+Despoil me in full prospect[15] of the fleet.605
+Fight, therefore, thou, and others urge to fight.
+  He said, and cover’d by the night of death,
+Nor look’d nor breath’d again; for on his chest
+Implanting firm his heel, Patroclus drew
+The spear enfolded with his vitals forth,610
+Weapon and life at once. Meantime his steeds
+Snorted, by Myrmidons detain’d, and, loosed
+From their own master’s chariot, foam’d to fly.
+Terrible was the grief by Glaucus felt,
+Hearing that charge, and troubled was his heart615
+That all power fail’d him to protect the dead.
+Compressing his own arm he stood, with pain
+Extreme tormented which the shaft had caused
+Of Teucer, who while Glaucus climb’d the wall,
+Had pierced him from it, in the fleet’s defence.620
+Then, thus, to Phœbus, King shaft-arm’d, he pray’d.
+  Hear now, O King! For whether in the land
+Of wealthy Lycia dwelling, or in Troy,
+Thou hear’st in every place alike the prayer
+Of the afflicted heart, and such is mine;625
+Behold my wound; it fills my useless hand
+With anguish, neither can my blood be stay’d,
+And all my shoulder suffers. I can grasp
+A spear, or rush to conflict with the Greeks
+No longer now; and we have also lost630
+Our noblest Chief, Sarpedon, son of Jove,
+Who guards not his own son. But thou, O King!
+Heal me, assuage my anguish, give me strength,
+That I may animate the Lycian host
+To fight, and may, myself, defend the dead!635
+  Such prayer he offer’d, whom Apollo heard;
+He eased at once his pain, the sable blood
+Staunch’d, and his soul with vigor new inspired.
+Then Glaucus in his heart that prayer perceived
+Granted, and joyful for the sudden aid640
+Vouchsafed to him by Phœbus, first the lines
+Of Lycia ranged, summoning every Chief
+To fight for slain Sarpedon; striding next
+With eager haste into the ranks of Troy,
+Renown’d Agenor and the son he call’d645
+Of Panthus, brave Polydamas, with whom
+Æneas also, and approaching last
+To Hector brazen-mail’d him thus bespake.
+  Now, Hector! now, thou hast indeed resign’d
+All care of thy allies, who, for thy sake,650
+Lost both to friends and country, on these plains
+Perish, unaided and unmiss’d by thee.
+Sarpedon breathless lies, who led to fight
+Our shielded bands, and from whose just control
+And courage Lycia drew her chief defence.655
+Him brazen Mars hath by the spear subdued
+Of Menœtiades. But stand ye firm!
+Let indignation fire you, O my friends!
+Lest, stripping him of his resplendent arms,
+The Myrmidons with foul dishonor shame660
+His body, through resentment of the deaths
+Of numerous Grecians slain by spears of ours.
+  He ceased; then sorrow every Trojan heart
+Seized insupportable and that disdain’d
+All bounds, for that, although a stranger born,665
+Sarpedon ever had a bulwark proved
+To Troy, the leader of a numerous host,
+And of that host by none in fight excell’d.
+Right on toward the Danaï they moved
+Ardent for battle all, and at their head670
+Enraged for slain Sarpedon, Hector came.
+Meantime, stout-hearted[16] Chief, Patroclus roused
+The Grecians, and exhorting first (themselves
+Already prompt) the Ajaces, thus began.
+  Heroic pair! now make it all your joy675
+To chase the Trojan host, and such to prove
+As erst, or even bolder, if ye may.
+The Chief lies breathless who ascended first
+Our wall, Sarpedon. Let us bear him hence,
+Strip and dishonor him, and in the blood680
+Of his protectors drench the ruthless spear.
+  So Menœtiades his warriors urged,
+Themselves courageous. Then the Lycian host
+And Trojan here, and there the Myrmidons
+With all the host of Greece, closing the ranks685
+Rush’d into furious contest for the dead,
+Shouting tremendous; clang’d their brazen arms,
+And Jove with Night’s pernicious shades[17] o’erhung
+The bloody field, so to enhance the more
+Their toilsome strife for his own son. First then690
+The Trojans from their place and order shock’d
+The bright-eyed Grecians, slaying not the least
+Nor worst among the Myrmidons, the brave
+Epigeus from renown’d Agacles sprung.
+He, erst, in populous Budeum ruled,695
+But for a valiant kinsman of his own
+Whom there he slew, had thence to Peleus fled
+And to his silver-footed spouse divine,
+Who with Achilles, phalanx-breaker Chief,
+Sent him to fight beneath the walls of Troy.700
+Him seizing fast the body, with a stone
+Illustrious Hector smote full on the front,
+And his whole skull within the ponderous casque
+Split sheer; he prostrate on the body fell
+In shades of soul-divorcing death involved.705
+Patroclus, grieving for his slaughter’d friend,
+Rush’d through the foremost warriors. As the hawk
+Swift-wing’d before him starlings drives or daws,
+So thou, Patroclus, of equestrian fame!
+Full on the Lycian ranks and Trojan drov’st,710
+Resentful of thy fellow-warrior’s fall.
+At Sthenelaüs a huge stone he cast,
+Son of Ithæmenes, whom on the neck
+He smote and burst the tendons; then the van
+Of Ilium’s host, with Hector, all retired.715
+Far as the slender javelin cuts the air
+Hurl’d with collected force, or in the games,
+Or even in battle at a desperate foe,
+So far the Greeks repulsed the host of Troy.
+Then Glaucus first, Chief of the shielded bands720
+Of Lycia, slew Bathycles, valiant son
+Of Calchon; Hellas was his home, and far
+He pass’d in riches all the Myrmidons.
+Him chasing Glaucus whom he now attain’d,
+The Lycian, turning sudden, with his lance725
+Pierced through the breast, and, sounding, down he fell
+Grief fill’d Achaia’s sons for such a Chief
+So slain, but joy the Trojans; thick they throng’d
+The conqueror around, nor yet the Greeks
+Forgat their force, but resolute advanced.730
+Then, by Meriones a Trojan died
+Of noble rank, Laogonus, the son
+Undaunted of Onetor great in Troy,
+Priest of Idæan Jove. The ear and jaw
+Between, he pierced him with a mortal force;735
+Swift flew the life, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+Æneas, in return, his brazen spear
+Hurl’d at Meriones with ardent hope
+To pierce him, while, with nimble[18] steps and short
+Behind his buckler made, he paced the field;740
+But, warn’d of its approach, Meriones
+Bow’d low his head, shunning it, and the spear
+Behind him pierced the soil; there quivering stood
+The weapon, vain, though from a vigorous arm,
+Till spent by slow degrees its fury slept.745
+       *       *       *       *       *
+       *       *       *       *       *[19]
+Indignant then Æneas thus exclaim’d.
+
+  Meriones! I sent thee such a spear
+As reaching thee, should have for ever marr’d750
+Thy step, accomplish’d dancer as thou art.
+  To whom Meriones spear-famed replied.
+Æneas! thou wilt find the labor hard
+How great soe’er thy might, to quell the force
+Of all opposers. Thou art also doom’d755
+Thyself to die; and may but spear of mine
+Well-aim’d once strike thee full, what strength soe’er
+Or magnanimity be thine to boast,
+Thy glory in that moment thou resign’st
+To me, thy soul to Pluto steed-renown’d.760
+  He said, but him Patroclus sharp reproved.
+Why speaks Meriones, although in fight
+Approved, thus proudly? Nay, my gallant friend!
+The Trojans will not for reproach of ours
+Renounce the body. Blood must first be spilt.765
+Tongues in debate, but hands in war decide;
+Deeds therefore now, not wordy vaunts, we need.
+  So saying he led the way, whom follow’d close
+Godlike Meriones. As from the depth
+Of some lone wood that clothes the mountain’s side770
+The fellers at their toil are heard remote,
+So, from the face of Ilium’s ample plain
+Reverberated, was the din of brass
+And of tough targets heard by falchions huge
+Hard-smitten, and by spears of double-edge.775
+None then, no, not the quickest to discern,
+Had known divine Sarpedon, from his head
+To his foot-sole with mingled blood and dust
+Polluted, and o’erwhelm’d with weapons. They
+Around the body swarm’d. As hovel-flies780
+In spring-time buzz around the brimming pails
+With milk bedew’d, so they around the dead.
+Nor Jove averted once his glorious eyes
+From that dread contest, but with watchful note
+Marked all, the future death in battle deep785
+Pondering of Patroclus, whether him
+Hector should even now slay on divine
+Sarpedon, and despoil him of his arms,
+Or he should still that arduous strife prolong.
+This counsel gain’d as eligible most790
+At length his preference: that the valiant friend
+Of Peleus’ son should yet again compel
+The Trojan host with Hector brazen-mail’d
+To Ilium, slaughtering numerous by the way.
+First then, with fears unmanly he possess’d795
+The heart of Hector; mounting to his seat
+He turn’d to flight himself, and bade his host
+Fly also; for he knew Jove’s purpose[20] changed.
+Thenceforth, no longer even Lycia’s host
+Endured, but all fled scatter’d, seeing pierced800
+Their sovereign through his heart, and heap’d with dead;
+For numerous, while Saturnian Jove the fight
+Held in suspense, had on his body fallen.
+At once the Grecians of his dazzling arms
+Despoil’d Sarpedon, which the Myrmidons805
+By order of Menœtius’ valiant son
+Bore thence into the fleet. Meantime his will
+The Thunderer to Apollo thus express’d.
+  Phœbus, my son, delay not; from beneath
+Yon hill of weapons drawn cleanse from his blood810
+Sarpedon’s corse; then, bearing him remote,
+Lave him in waters of the running stream,
+With oils divine anoint, and in attire
+Immortal clothe him. Last, to Death and Sleep,
+Swift bearers both, twin-born, deliver him;815
+For hence to Lycia’s opulent abodes
+They shall transport him quickly, where, with rites
+Funereal, his next kindred and his friends
+Shall honor him, a pillar and a tomb
+(The dead man’s portion) rearing to his name.820
+  He ceased; nor was Apollo slow to hear
+His father’s will, but, from the Idæan heights
+Descending swift into the dreadful field,
+Godlike Sarpedon’s body from beneath
+The hill of weapons drew, which, borne remote,825
+He laved in waters of the running stream,
+With oils ambrosial bathed, and clothed in robes
+Immortal. Then to Death and gentle Sleep,
+Swift-bearers both, twin-born, he gave the charge,
+Who placed it soon in Lycia’s wealthy realm.830
+  Meantime Patroclus, calling to his steeds,
+And to Automedon, the Trojans chased
+And Lycians, on his own destruction bent
+Infatuate; heedless of his charge received
+From Peleus’ son, which, well perform’d, had saved835
+The hero from his miserable doom.
+But Jove’s high purpose evermore prevails
+Against the thoughts of man; he turns to flight
+The bravest, and the victory takes with ease
+E’en from the Chief whom he impels himself840
+To battle, as he now this Chief impell’d.
+Who, then, Patroclus! first, who last by thee
+Fell slain, what time thyself was call’d to die?
+Adrastus first, then Perimus he slew,
+Offspring of Megas, then Autonoüs,845
+Echechlus, Melanippus, and Epistor,
+Pylartes, Mulius, Elasus. All these
+He slew, and from the field chased all beside.
+Then, doubtless, had Achaia’s sons prevail’d
+To take proud-gated Troy, such havoc made850
+He with his spear, but that the son of Jove
+Apollo, on a tower’s conspicuous height
+Station’d, devoted him for Ilium’s sake.
+Thrice on a buttress of the lofty wall
+Patroclus mounted, and him thrice the God855
+With hands immortal his resplendent shield
+Smiting, struck down again; but when he rush’d
+A fourth time, demon-like, to the assault,
+The King of radiant shafts him, stern, rebuked.
+  Patroclus, warrior of renown, retire!860
+The fates ordain not that imperial Troy
+Stoop to thy spear, nor to the spear itself
+Of Peleus’ son, though mightier far than thou.
+  He said, and Menœtiades the wrath
+Of shaft-arm’d Phœbus shunning, far retired.865
+But in the Scæan gate Hector his steeds
+Detain’d, uncertain whether thence to drive
+Amid the warring multitude again,
+Or, loud commandment issuing, to collect
+His host within the walls. Him musing long870
+Apollo, clad in semblance of a Chief
+Youthful and valiant, join’d. Asius he seem’d
+Equestrian Hector’s uncle, brother born
+Of Hecuba the queen, and Dymas’ son,
+Who on the Sangar’s banks in Phrygia dwelt.875
+Apollo, so disguised, him thus bespake.
+  Why, Hector, hast thou left the fight? this sloth
+Not well befits thee. Oh that I as far
+Thee pass’d in force as thou transcendest me,
+Then, not unpunish’d long, should’st thou retire;880
+But haste, and with thy coursers solid-hoof’d
+Seek out Patroclus, him perchance to slay,
+Should Phœbus have decreed that glory thine.
+  So saying, Apollo join’d the host again.
+Then noble Hector bade his charioteer885
+Valiant Cebriones his coursers lash
+Back into battle, while the God himself
+Entering the multitude confounded sore
+The Argives, victory conferring proud
+And glory on Hector and the host of Troy.890
+But Hector, leaving all beside unslain,
+Furious impell’d his coursers solid-hoof’d
+Against Patroclus; on the other side
+Patroclus from his chariot to the ground
+Leap’d ardent; in his left a spear he bore,895
+And in his right a marble fragment rough,
+Large as his grasp. With full collected might
+He hurl’d it; neither was the weapon slow
+To whom he had mark’d, or sent in vain.
+He smote the charioteer of Hector, bold900
+Cebriones, King Priam’s spurious son,
+Full on the forehead, while he sway’d the reins.
+The bone that force withstood not, but the rock
+With ragged points beset dash’d both his brows
+In pieces, and his eyes fell at his feet.905
+He diver-like, from his exalted stand
+Behind the steeds pitch’d headlong, and expired;
+O’er whom, Patroclus of equestrian fame!
+Thou didst exult with taunting speech severe.
+  Ye Gods, with what agility he dives!910
+Ah! it were well if in the fishy deep
+This man were occupied; he might no few
+With oysters satisfy, although the waves
+Were churlish, plunging headlong from his bark
+As easily as from his chariot here.915
+So then—in Troy, it seems, are divers too!
+  So saying, on bold Cebriones he sprang
+With all a lion’s force, who, while the folds
+He ravages, is wounded in the breast,
+And, victim of his own fierce courage, dies.920
+So didst thou spring, Patroclus! to despoil
+Cebriones, and Hector opposite
+Leap’d also to the ground. Then contest such
+For dead Cebriones those two between
+Arose, as in the lofty mountain-tops925
+Two lions wage, contending for a deer
+New-slain, both hunger-pinch’d and haughty both.
+So for Cebriones, alike in arms
+Expert, brave Hector and Patroclus strove
+To pierce each other with the ruthless spear.930
+First, Hector seized his head, nor loosed his hold,
+Patroclus, next, his feet, while all beside
+Of either host in furious battle join’d.
+  As when the East wind and the South contend
+To shake some deep wood on the mountain’s side,935
+Or beech, or ash, or rugged cornel old.
+With stormy violence the mingled boughs
+Smite and snap short each other, crashing loud;
+So, Trojans and Achaians, mingling, slew
+Mutual, while neither felt a wish to fly.940
+Around Cebriones stood many a spear,
+And many a shaft sent smartly from the nerve
+Implanted deep, and many a stone of grasp
+Enormous sounded on their batter’d shields
+Who fought to gain him. He, in eddies lost945
+Of sable dust, with his huge trunk huge space
+O’erspread, nor steeds nor chariots heeded more.
+  While yet the sun ascending climb’d the heavens,
+Their darts flew equal, and the people fell;
+But when he westward journey’d, by a change950
+Surpassing hope the Grecians then prevail’d.
+They drew Cebriones the hero forth
+From all those weapons, and his armor stripp’d
+At leisure, distant from the battle’s roar.
+Then sprang Patroclus on the Trojan host;955
+Thrice, like another Mars, he sprang with shouts
+Tremendous, and nine warriors thrice he slew.
+But when the fourth time, demon-like, he rush’d
+Against them, then, oh then, too manifest
+The consummation of thy days approach’d960
+Patroclus! whom Apollo, terror-clad
+Met then in battle. He the coming God
+Through all that multitude knew not, such gloom
+Impenetrable him involved around.
+Behind him close he stood, and with his palms965
+Expanded on the spine and shoulders broad
+Smote him; his eyes swam dizzy at the stroke.
+Then Phœbus from his head his helmet dash’d
+To earth; sonorous at the feet it roll’d
+Of many a prancing steed, and all the crest970
+Defilement gather’d gross of dust and blood,
+Then first; till then, impossible; for how
+Should dust the tresses of that helmet shame
+With which Achilles fighting fenced his head
+Illustrious, and his graceful brows divine?975
+But Jove now made it Hector’s; he awhile
+Bore it, himself to swift perdition doom’d
+His spear brass-mounted, ponderous, huge and long,
+Fell shiver’d from his grasp. His shield that swept
+His ancle, with its belt dropp’d from his arm,980
+And Phœbus loosed the corselet from his breast.
+Confusion seized his brain; his noble limbs
+Quaked under him, and panic-stunn’d he stood.
+Then came a Dardan Chief, who from behind
+Enforced a pointed lance into his back985
+Between the shoulders; Panthus’ son was he,
+Euphorbus, famous for equestrian skill,
+For spearmanship, and in the rapid race
+Past all of equal age. He twenty men
+(Although a learner yet of martial feats,990
+And by his steeds then first to battle borne)
+Dismounted. He, Patroclus, mighty Chief!
+First threw a lance at thee, which yet life
+Quell’d not; then snatching hasty from the wound
+His ashen beam, he ran into the crowd,995
+Nor dared confront in fight even the unarm’d
+Patroclus. But Patroclus, by the lance,
+And by the stroke of an immortal hand
+Subdued, fell back toward his ranks again.
+Then, soon as Hector the retreat perceived1000
+Of brave Patroclus wounded, issuing forth
+From his own phalanx, he approach’d and drove
+A spear right through his body at the waist.
+Sounding he fell. Loud groan’d Achaia’s host.
+As when the lion and the sturdy boar1005
+Contend in battle on the mountain-tops
+For some scant rivulet, thirst-parch’d alike,
+Ere long the lion quells the panting boar;
+So Priameian Hector, spear in hand,
+Slew Menœtiades the valiant slayer1010
+Of multitudes, and thus in accents wing’d,
+With fierce delight exulted in his fall.
+
+  It was thy thought, Patroclus, to have laid
+Our city waste, and to have wafted hence
+Our wives and daughters to thy native land,1015
+Their day of liberty for ever set.
+Fool! for their sakes the feet of Hector’s steeds
+Fly into battle, and myself excel,
+For their sakes, all our bravest of the spear,
+That I may turn from them that evil hour1020
+Necessitous. But thou art vulture’s food,
+Unhappy youth! all valiant as he is,
+Achilles hath no succor given to thee,
+Who when he sent the forth whither himself
+Would not, thus doubtless gave thee oft in charge:1025
+Ah, well beware, Patroclus, glorious Chief!
+That thou revisit not these ships again,
+Till first on hero-slaughterer Hector’s breast
+Thou cleave his bloody corselet. So he spake,
+And with vain words thee credulous beguiled.1030
+  To whom Patroclus, mighty Chief, with breath
+Drawn faintly, and dying, thou didst thus reply.
+Now, Hector, boast! now glory! for the son
+Of Saturn and Apollo, me with ease
+Vanquishing, whom they had themselves disarm’d,1035
+Have made the victory thine; else, twenty such
+As thou, had fallen by my victorious spear.
+Me Phœbus and my ruthless fate combined
+To slay; these foremost; but of mortal men
+Euphorbus, and thy praise is only third.1040
+I tell thee also, and within thy heart
+Repose it deep—thou shalt not long survive;
+But, even now, fate, and a violent death
+Attend thee by Achilles’ hands ordain’d
+To perish, by Æacides the brave.[21]1045
+  So saying, the shades of death him wrapp’d around.
+Down into Ades from his limbs dismiss’d,
+His spirit fled sorrowful, of youth’s prime
+And vigorous manhood suddenly bereft
+Then, him though dead, Hector again bespake.1050
+  Patroclus! these prophetic strains of death
+At hand, and fate, why hast thou sung to me?
+May not the son of Thetis azure-hair’d,
+Achilles, perish first by spear of mine?
+  He said; then pressing with his heel the trunk1055
+Supine, and backward thursting it, he drew
+His glittering weapon from the wound, nor stay’d,
+But lance in hand, the godlike charioteer
+Pursued of swift Æacides, on fire
+To smite Automedon; but him the steeds1060
+Immortal, rapid, by the Gods conferr’d
+(A glorious gift) on Peleus, snatch’d away.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XVII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE SEVENTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Sharp contest ensues around the body of Patroclus. Hector puts on the
+armor of Achilles. Menelaus, having dispatched Antilochus to Achilles
+with news of the death of Patroclus, returns to the battle, and,
+together with Meriones, bears Patroclus off the field, while the Ajaces
+cover their retreat.
+
+
+BOOK XVII.
+
+
+Nor Menelaus, Atreus’ valiant son,
+Knew not how Menœtiades had fallen
+By Trojan hands in battle; forth he rush’d
+All bright in burnish’d armor through his van,
+And as some heifer with maternal fears5
+Now first acquainted, compasses around
+Her young one murmuring, with tender moan,
+So moved the hero of the amber locks
+Around Patroclus, before whom his spear
+Advancing and broad shield, he death denounced10
+On all opposers; neither stood the son
+Spear-famed of Panthus inattentive long
+To slain Patroclus, but approach’d the dead,
+And warlike Menelaus thus bespake.
+  Prince! Menelaus! Atreus’ mighty son!15
+Yield. Leave the body and these gory spoils;
+For of the Trojans or allies of Troy
+None sooner made Patroclus bleed than I.
+Seek not to rob me, therefore, of my praise
+Among the Trojans, lest my spear assail20
+Thee also, and thou perish premature.[1]
+  To whom, indignant, Atreus’ son replied.
+Self-praise, the Gods do know, is little worth.
+But neither lion may in pride compare
+Nor panther, nor the savage boar whose heart’s25
+High temper flashes in his eyes, with these
+The spear accomplish’d youths of Panthus’ house.
+Yet Hyperenor of equestrian fame
+Lived not his lusty manhood to enjoy,
+Who scoffingly defied my force in arms,30
+And call’d me most contemptible in fight
+Of all the Danaï. But him, I ween,
+His feet bore never hence to cheer at home
+His wife and parents with his glad return.
+So also shall thy courage fierce be tamed,35
+If thou oppose me. I command thee, go—
+Mix with the multitude; withstand not me,
+Lest evil overtake thee! To be taught
+By sufferings only, is the part of fools.
+  He said, but him sway’d not, who thus replied.40
+Now, even now, Atrides! thou shalt rue
+My brother’s blood which thou hast shed, and mak’st
+His death thy boast. Thou hast his blooming bride
+Widow’d, and thou hast fill’d his parents’ hearts
+With anguish of unutterable wo;45
+But bearing hence thy armor and thy head
+To Troy, and casting them at Panthus’ feet,
+And at the feet of Phrontis, his espoused,
+I shall console the miserable pair.
+Nor will I leave that service unessay’d50
+Longer, nor will I fail through want of force,
+Of courage, or of terrible address.
+  He ceased, and smote his shield, nor pierced the disk,
+But bent his point against the stubborn brass.
+Then Menelaus, prayer preferring first55
+To Jove,[2] assail’d Euphorbus in his turn,
+Whom pacing backward in the throat he struck,
+And both hands and his full force the spear
+Impelled, urged it through his neck behind.
+Sounding he fell; loud rang his batter’d arms.60
+His locks, which even the Graces might have own’d,
+Blood-sullied, and his ringlets wound about
+With twine of gold and silver, swept the dust.
+As the luxuriant olive by a swain
+Rear’d in some solitude where rills abound,65
+Puts forth her buds, and fann’d by genial airs
+On all sides, hangs her boughs with whitest flowers,
+But by a sudden whirlwind from its trench
+Uptorn, it lies extended on the field;
+Such, Panthus’ warlike son Euphorbus seem’d,70
+By Menelaus, son of Atreus, slain
+Suddenly, and of all his arms despoil’d.
+But as the lion on the mountains bred,
+Glorious in strength, when he hath seized the best
+And fairest of the herd, with savage fangs75
+First breaks her neck, then laps the bloody paunch
+Torn wide; meantime, around him, but remote,
+Dogs stand and swains clamoring, yet by fear
+Repress’d, annoy him not nor dare approach;
+So there all wanted courage to oppose80
+The force of Menelaus, glorious Chief.
+Then, easily had Menelaus borne
+The armor of the son of Panthus thence,
+But that Apollo the illustrious prize
+Denied him, who in semblance of the Chief85
+Of the Ciconians, Mentes, prompted forth
+Against him Hector terrible as Mars,
+Whose spirit thus in accents wing’d he roused.
+  Hector! the chase is vain; here thou pursuest
+The horses of Æacides the brave,90
+Which thou shalt never win, for they are steeds
+Of fiery nature, such as ill endure
+To draw or carry mortal man, himself
+Except, whom an immortal mother bore.
+Meantime, bold Menelaus, in defence95
+Of dead Patroclus, hath a Trojan slain
+Of highest note, Euphorbus, Panthus’ son,
+And hath his might in arms for ever quell’d.
+  So spake the God and to the fight return’d.
+But grief intolerable at that word100
+Seized Hector; darting through the ranks his eye,
+He knew at once who stripp’d Euphorbus’ arms,
+And him knew also lying on the field,
+And from his wide wound bleeding copious still.
+Then dazzling bright in arms, through all the van105
+He flew, shrill-shouting, fierce as Vulcan’s fire
+Unquenchable; nor were his shouts unheard
+By Atreus’ son, who with his noble mind
+Conferring sad, thus to himself began.
+  Alas! if I forsake these gorgeous spoils,110
+And leave Patroclus for my glory slain,
+I fear lest the Achaians at that sight
+Incensed, reproach me; and if, urged by shame,
+I fight with Hector and his host, alone,
+Lest, hemm’d around by multitudes, I fall;115
+For Hector, by his whole embattled force
+Attended, comes. But whither tend my thoughts?
+No man may combat with another fenced
+By power divine and whom the Gods exalt,
+But he must draw down wo on his own head.120
+Me, therefore, none of all Achaia’s host
+Will blame indignant, seeing my retreat
+From Hector, whom themselves the Gods assist.
+But might the battle-shout of Ajax once
+Reach me, with force united we would strive,125
+Even in opposition to a God,
+To rescue for Achilles’ sake, his friend.
+Task arduous! but less arduous than this.
+  While he thus meditated, swift advanced
+The Trojan ranks, with Hector at their head.130
+He then, retiring slow, and turning oft,
+Forsook the body. As by dogs and swains
+With clamors loud and spears driven from the stalls
+A bearded lion goes, his noble heart
+Abhors retreat, and slow he quits the prey;135
+So Menelaus with slow steps forsook
+Patroclus, and arrived in front, at length,
+Of his own phalanx, stood, with sharpen’d eyes
+Seeking vast Ajax, son of Telamon.
+Him leftward, soon, of all the field he mark’d140
+Encouraging aloud his band, whose hearts
+With terrors irresistible himself
+Phœbus had fill’d. He ran, and at his side
+Standing, incontinent him thus bespake.
+  My gallant Ajax, haste—come quickly—strive145
+With me to rescue for Achilles’ sake
+His friend, though bare, for Hector hath his arms.
+  He said, and by his words the noble mind
+Of Ajax roused; issuing through the van
+He went, and Menelaus at his side.150
+Hector the body of Patroclus dragg’d,
+Stript of his arms, with falchion keen erelong
+Purposing to strike off his head, and cast
+His trunk, drawn distant, to the dogs of Troy.
+But Ajax, with broad shield tower-like, approach’d.155
+Then Hector, to his bands retreating, sprang
+Into his chariot, and to others gave
+The splendid arms in charge, who into Troy
+Should bear the destined trophy of his praise,
+But Ajax with his broad shield guarding stood160
+Slain Menœtiades, as for his whelps
+The lion stands; him through some forest drear
+Leading his little ones, the hunters meet;
+Fire glimmers in his looks, and down he draws
+His whole brow into frowns, covering his eyes;165
+So, guarding slain Patroclus, Ajax lour’d.
+On the other side, with tender grief oppress’d
+Unspeakable, brave Menelaus stood.
+But Glaucus, leader of the Lycian band,
+Son of Hippolochus, in bitter terms170
+Indignant, reprimanded Hector thus,
+  Ah, Hector, Chieftain of excelling form,
+But all unfurnish’d with a warrior’s heart!
+Unwarranted I deem thy great renown
+Who art to flight addicted. Think, henceforth,175
+How ye shall save city and citadel
+Thou and thy people born in Troy, alone.
+No Lycian shall, at least, in your defence
+Fight with the Grecians, for our ceaseless toil
+In arms, hath ever been a thankless task.180
+Inglorious Chief! how wilt thou save a worse
+From warring crowds, who hast Sarpedon left
+Thy guest, thy friend, to be a spoil, a prey
+To yonder Argives? While he lived he much
+Thee and thy city profited, whom dead185
+Thou fear’st to rescue even from the dogs.
+Now, therefore, may but my advice prevail,
+Back to your country, Lycians! so, at once,
+Shall remediless ruin fall on Troy.
+For had the Trojans now a daring heart190
+Intrepid, such as in the breast resides
+Of laborers in their country’s dear behalf,
+We soon should drag Patroclus into Troy;
+And were his body, from the battle drawn,
+In Priam’s royal city once secured,195
+As soon, the Argives would in ransom give
+Sarpedon’s body with his splendid arms
+To be conducted safe into the town.
+For when Patroclus fell, the friend was slain
+Of such a Chief as is not in the fleet200
+For valor, and his bands are dauntless all.
+But thou, at the first glimpse of Ajax’ eye
+Confounded, hast not dared in arms to face
+That warrior bold, superior far to thee.
+  To whom brave Hector, frowning stern, replied,205
+Why, Glaucus! should a Chief like thee his tongue
+Presume to employ thus haughtily? My friend!
+I thee accounted wisest, once, of all
+Who dwell in fruitful Lycia, but thy speech
+Now utter’d altogether merits blame,210
+In which thou tell’st me that I fear to stand
+Against vast Ajax. Know that I from fight
+Shrink not, nor yet from sound of prancing steeds;
+But Jove’s high purpose evermore prevails
+Against the thoughts of man; he turns to flight215
+The bravest, and the victory takes with ease
+Even from those whom once he favor’d most.
+But hither, friend! stand with me; mark my deed;
+Prove me, if I be found, as thou hast said,
+An idler all the day, or if by force220
+I not compel some Grecian to renounce
+Patroclus, even the boldest of them all.
+  He ceased, and to his host exclaim’d aloud.
+Trojans, and Lycians, and close-fighting sons
+Of Dardanus, oh be ye men, my friends!225
+Now summon all your fortitude, while I
+Put on the armor of Achilles, won
+From the renown’d Patroclus slain by me.
+  So saying, illustrious Hector from the clash
+Of spears withdrew, and with his swiftest pace230
+Departing, overtook, not far remote,
+The bearers of Achilles’ arms to Troy.
+Apart from all the horrors of the field
+Standing, he changed his armor; gave his own
+To be by them to sacred Ilium borne,235
+And the immortal arms of Peleus’ son
+Achilles, by the ever-living Gods
+To Peleüs given, put on. Those arms the Sire,
+Now old himself, had on his son conferr’d
+But in those arms his son grew never old.240
+  Him, therefore, soon as cloud-assembler Jove
+Saw glittering in divine Achilles’ arms,
+Contemplative he shook his brows, and said,
+  Ah hapless Chief! thy death, although at hand,
+Nought troubles thee. Thou wear’st his heavenly245
+Who all excels, terror of Ilium’s host.
+His friend, though bold yet gentle, thou hast slain
+And hast the brows and bosom of the dead
+Unseemly bared: yet, bright success awhile
+I give thee; so compensating thy lot,250
+From whom Andromache shall ne’er receive
+Those glorious arms, for thou shalt ne’er return.
+  So spake the Thunderer, and his sable brows
+Shaking, confirm’d the word. But Hector found
+The armor apt; the God of war his soul255
+With fury fill’d, he felt his limbs afresh
+Invigorated, and with loudest shouts
+Return’d to his illustrious allies.
+To them he seem’d, clad in those radiant arms,
+Himself Achilles; rank by rank he pass’d260
+Through all the host, exhorting every Chief,
+Asteropæus, Mesthles, Phorcys, Medon,
+Thersilochus, Deisenor, augur Ennomus,
+Chromius, Hippothoüs; all these he roused
+To battle, and in accents wing’d began.265
+  Hear me, ye myriads, neighbors and allies!
+For not through fond desire to fill the plain
+With multitudes, have I convened you here
+Each from his city, but that well-inclined
+To Ilium, ye might help to guard our wives270
+And little ones against the host of Greece.
+Therefore it is that forage large and gifts
+Providing for you, I exhaust the stores
+Of Troy, and drain our people for your sake.
+Turn then direct against them, and his life275
+Save each, or lose; it is the course of war.
+Him who shall drag, though dead, Patroclus home
+Into the host of Troy, and shall repulse
+Ajax, I will reward with half the spoils
+And half shall be my own; glory and praise280
+Shall also be his meed, equal to mine.
+  He ended; they compact with lifted spears
+Bore on the Danaï, conceiving each
+Warm expectation in his heart to wrest
+From Ajax son of Telamon, the dead.285
+Vain hope! he many a lifeless Trojan heap’d
+On slain Patroclus, but at length his speech
+To warlike Menelaus thus address’d.
+  Ah, Menelaus, valiant friend! I hope
+No longer, now, that even we shall ’scape290
+Ourselves from fight; nor fear I so the loss
+Of dead Patroclus, who shall soon the dogs
+Of Ilium, and the fowls sate with his flesh,
+As for my life I tremble and for thine,
+That cloud of battle, Hector, such a gloom295
+Sheds all around; death manifest impends.
+Haste—call our best, if even they can hear.
+  He spake, nor Menelaus not complied,
+But call’d aloud on all the Chiefs of Greece.
+  Friends, senators, and leaders of the powers300
+Of Argos! who with Agamemnon drink
+And Menelaus at the public feast,
+Each bearing rule o’er many, by the will
+Of Jove advanced to honor and renown!
+The task were difficult to single out305
+Chief after Chief by name amid the blaze
+Of such contention; but oh, come yourselves
+Indignant forth, nor let the dogs of Troy
+Patroclus rend, and gambol with his bones!
+  He ceased, whom Oïliades the swift310
+Hearing incontinent, of all the Chiefs
+Ran foremost, after whom Idomeneus
+Approach’d, and dread as homicidal Mars
+Meriones. But never mind of man
+Could even in silent recollection name315
+The whole vast multitude who, following these
+Renew’d the battle on the part of Greece.
+The Trojans first, with Hector at their head,
+Wedged in close phalanx, rush’d to the assault
+  As when within some rapid river’s mouth320
+The billows and stream clash, on either shore[3]
+Loud sounds the roar[3] of waves ejected wide,
+Such seem’d the clamors of the Trojan host.
+But the Achaians, one in heart, around
+Patroclus stood, bulwark’d with shields of brass325
+And over all their glittering helmets Jove
+Darkness diffused, for he had loved Patroclus
+While yet he lived friend of Æacides,
+And now, abhorring that the dogs of Troy
+Should eat him, urged the Greeks to his defence,330
+The host of Troy first shook the Grecian host;
+The body left, they fled; yet of them all,
+The Trojan powers, determined as they were,
+Slew none, but dragg’d the body. Neither stood
+The Greeks long time aloof, soon as repulsed335
+Again led on by Ajax, who in form
+And in exploits all others far excell’d.
+Peerless Æacides alone except.
+Right through the foremost combatants he rush’d,
+In force resembling most some savage boar340
+That in the mountains bursting through the brakes,
+The swains disperses and their hounds with ease;
+Like him, illustrious Ajax, mighty son
+Of Telamon, at his assault dispersed
+With ease the close imbattled ranks who fought345
+Around Patroclus’ body, strong in hope
+To achieve it, and to make the glory theirs.
+Hippothoüs, a youth of high renown,
+Son of Pelasgian Lethus, by a noose
+Around his ancle cast dragg’d through the fight350
+Patroclus, so to gratify the host
+Of Ilium and their Chief; but evil him
+Reached suddenly, by none of all his friends
+(Though numerous wish’d to save him) turn’d aside.
+For swift advancing on him through the crowd355
+The son of Telamon pierced, spear in hand,
+His helmet brazen-cheek’d; the crested casque,
+So smitten, open’d wide, for huge the hand
+And ponderous was the spear that gave the blow
+And all around its neck, mingled with blood360
+Gush’d forth the brain. There, lifeless, down he sank,
+Let fall the hero’s foot, and fell himself
+Prone on the dead, never to see again?
+Deep-soil’d Larissa, never to require
+Their kind solicitudes who gave him birth,365
+In bloom of life by dauntless Ajax slain.
+Then Hector hurl’d at Ajax his bright spear,
+But he, forewarn’d of its approach, escaped
+Narrowly, and it pierced Schedius instead,
+Brave son of Iphitus; he, noblest Chief370
+Of the Phocensians, over many reign’d,
+Dwelling in Panopeus the far-renown’d.
+Entering beneath the clavicle[4] the point
+Right through his shoulder’s summit pass’d behind,
+And on his loud-resounding arms he fell.375
+But Ajax at his waist wounded the son
+Of Phœnops, valiant Phorcys, while he stood
+Guarding Hippothöus; through his hollow mail
+Enforced the weapon drank his inmost life,
+And in his palm, supine, he clench’d the dust.380
+Then, Hector with the foremost Chiefs of Troy
+Fell back; the Argives sent a shout to heaven,
+And dragging Phorcys and Hippothöus thence
+Stripp’d both. In that bright moment Ilium’s host
+Fear-quell’d before Achaia’s warlike sons385
+Had Troy re-enter’d, and the host of Greece
+By matchless might and fortitude their own
+Had snatch’d a victory from the grasp of fate,
+But that, himself, the King of radiant shafts
+Æneas roused; Epytis’ son he seem’d390
+Periphas, ancient in the service grown
+Of old Anchises whom he dearly loved;
+His form assumed, Apollo thus began.
+  How could ye save, Æneas, were the Gods
+Your enemies, the towers of lofty Troy?395
+As I have others seen, warriors who would,
+Men fill’d with might and valor, firm themselves
+And Chiefs of multitudes disdaining fear.
+But Jove to us the victory far more
+Than to the Grecians wills; therefore the fault400
+Is yours, who tremble and refuse the fight.
+  He ended, whom Æneas marking, knew
+At once the glorious Archer of the skies,
+And thus to distant Hector call’d aloud.
+  Oh, Hector, and ye other Chiefs of Troy405
+And of her brave confederates! Shame it were
+Should we re-enter Ilium, driven to flight
+By dastard fear before the host of Greece.
+A God assured me even now, that Jove,
+Supreme in battle, gives his aid to Troy.410
+Rush, therefore, on the Danaï direct,
+Nor let them, safe at least and unannoy’d,
+Bear hence Patroclus’ body to the fleet.
+  He spake, and starting far into the van
+Stood foremost forth; they, wheeling, faced the Greeks.415
+Then, spear in hand, Æneas smote the friend
+Of Lycomedes, brave Leocritus,
+Son of Arisbas. Lycomedes saw
+Compassionate his death, and drawing nigh
+First stood, then hurling his resplendent lance,420
+Right through the liver Apisaon pierced
+Offspring of Hippasus, his chest beneath,
+And, lifeless, instant, on the field he fell.
+He from Pæonia the deep soil’d to Troy
+Came forth, Asteropæus sole except,425
+Bravest of all Pæonia’s band in arms.
+Asteropæus saw, and to the van
+Sprang forth for furious combat well prepared,
+But room for fight found none, so thick a fence
+Of shields and ported spears fronted secure430
+The phalanx guarding Menœtiades.
+For Ajax ranging all the ranks, aloud
+Admonish’d them that no man yielding ground
+Should leave Patroclus, or advance before
+The rest, but all alike fight and stand fast.435
+Such order gave huge Ajax; purple gore
+Drench’d all the ground; in slaughter’d heaps they fell
+Trojans and Trojan aids of dauntless hearts
+And Grecians; for not even they the fight
+Waged bloodless, though with far less cost of blood,440
+Each mindful to avert his fellow’s fate.
+  Thus burn’d the battle; neither hadst thou deem’d
+The sun himself in heaven unquench’d, or moon,
+Beneath a cope so dense of darkness strove
+Unceasing all the most renown’d in arms445
+For Menœtiades. Meantime the war,
+Wherever else, the bright-arm’d Grecians waged
+And Trojans under skies serene. The sun
+On them his radiance darted; not a cloud,
+From mountain or from vale rising, allay’d450
+His fervor; there at distance due they fought
+And paused by turns, and shunn’d the cruel dart.
+But in the middle field not war alone
+They suffer’d, but night also; ruthless raged
+The iron storm, and all the mightiest bled.455
+Two glorious Chiefs, the while, Antilochus
+And Thrasymedes, had no tidings heard
+Of brave Patroclus slain, but deem’d him still
+Living, and troubling still the host of Troy;
+For watchful[5] only to prevent the flight460
+Or slaughter of their fellow-warriors, they
+Maintain’d a distant station, so enjoin’d
+By Nestor when he sent them to the field.
+But fiery conflict arduous employ’d
+The rest all day continual; knees and legs,465
+Feet, hands, and eyes of those who fought to guard
+The valiant friend of swift Æacides
+Sweat gather’d foul and dust. As when a man
+A huge ox-hide drunken with slippery lard
+Gives to be stretch’d, his servants all around470
+Disposed, just intervals between, the task
+Ply strenuous, and while many straining hard
+Extend it equal on all sides, it sweats
+The moisture out, and drinks the unction in,[6]
+So they, in narrow space struggling, the dead475
+Dragg’d every way, warm hope conceiving, these
+To drag him thence to Troy, those, to the ships.
+Wild tumult raged around him; neither Mars,
+Gatherer of hosts to battle, nor herself
+Pallas, however angry, had beheld480
+That conflict with disdain, Jove to such length
+Protracted on that day the bloody toil
+Of steeds and men for Menœtiades.
+Nor knew divine Achilles or had aught
+Heard of Patroclus slain, for from the ships485
+Remote they fought, beneath the walls of Troy.
+He, therefore, fear’d not for his death, but hope
+Indulged much rather, that, the battle push’d
+To Ilium’s gates, he should return alive.
+For that his friend, unaided by himself490
+Or ever aided, should prevail to lay
+Troy waste, he nought supposed; by Thetis warn’d
+In secret conference oft, he better knew
+Jove’s purpose; yet not even she had borne
+Those dreadful tidings to his ear, the loss495
+Immeasurable of his dearest friend.
+  They all around the dead fought spear in hand
+With mutual slaughter ceaseless, and amid
+Achaia’s host thus spake a Chief mail-arm’d.
+  Shame were it, Grecians! should we seek by flight500
+Our galleys now; yawn earth our feet beneath
+And here ingulf us rather! Better far
+Than to permit the steed-famed host of Troy
+To drag Patroclus hence into the town,
+And make the glory of this conflict theirs.505
+  Thus also of the dauntless Trojans spake
+A certain warrior. Oh, my friends! although
+The Fates ordain us, one and all, to die
+Around this body, stand! quit not the field.
+  So spake the warrior prompting into act510
+The courage of his friends, and such they strove
+On both sides; high into the vault of heaven
+The iron din pass’d through the desart air.
+Meantime the horses of Æacides
+From fight withdrawn, soon as they understood515
+Their charioteer fallen in the dust beneath
+The arm of homicidal Hector, wept.
+Them oft with hasty lash Diores’ son
+Automedon impatient smote, full oft
+He stroked them gently, and as oft he chode;[7]520
+Yet neither to the fleet ranged on the shore
+Of spacious Hellespont would they return,
+Nor with the Grecians seek the fight, but stood
+As a sepulchral pillar stands, unmoved
+Between their traces;[8] to the earth they hung525
+Their heads, with plenteous tears their driver mourn’d,
+And mingled their dishevell’d manes with dust.
+Jove saw their grief with pity, and his brows
+Shaking, within himself thus, pensive, said.
+  Ah hapless pair! Wherefore by gift divine530
+Were ye to Peleus given, a mortal king,
+Yourselves immortal and from age exempt?
+Was it that ye might share in human woes?
+For, of all things that breathe or creep the earth,
+No creature lives so mere a wretch as man.535
+Yet shall not Priameian Hector ride
+Triumphant, drawn by you. Myself forbid.
+Suffice it that he boasts vain-gloriously
+Those arms his own. Your spirit and your limbs
+I will invigorate, that ye may bear540
+Safe hence Automedon into the fleet.
+For I ordain the Trojans still to spread
+Carnage around victorious, till they reach
+The gallant barks, and till the sun at length
+Descending, sacred darkness cover all.545
+  He said, and with new might the steeds inspired.
+They, shaking from their hair profuse the dust,
+Between the van of either army whirl’d
+The rapid chariot. Fighting as he pass’d,
+Though fill’d with sorrow for his slaughter’d friend,550
+Automedon high-mounted swept the field
+Impetuous as a vulture scattering geese;
+Now would he vanish, and now, turn’d again,
+Chase through a multitude his trembling foe;
+But whomsoe’er he follow’d, none he slew,555
+Nor was the task possible to a Chief
+Sole in the sacred chariot, both to aim
+The spear aright and guide the fiery steeds.
+At length Alcimedon, his friend in arms,
+Son of Laerceus son of Æmon, him560
+Observing, from behind the chariot hail’d
+The flying warrior, whom he thus bespake.
+  What power, Automedon! hath ta’en away
+Thy better judgment, and thy breast inspired
+With this vain purpose to assail alone565
+The Trojan van? Thy partner in the fight
+Is slain, and Hector on his shoulders bears,
+Elate, the armor of Æacides.
+  Then, answer thus Automedon return’d,
+Son of Diores. Who of all our host570
+Was ever skill’d, Alcimedon! as thou
+To rule the fire of these immortal steeds,
+Save only while he lived, peer of the Gods
+In that great art, Patroclus, now no more?
+Thou, therefore, the resplendent reins receive575
+And scourge, while I, dismounting, wage the fight.
+  He ceased; Alcimedon without delay
+The battle-chariot mounting, seized at once
+The lash and reins, and from his seat down leap’d
+Automedon. Them noble Hector mark’d,580
+And to Æneas at his side began.
+  Illustrious Chief of Trojans brazen-mail’d
+Æneas! I have noticed yonder steeds
+Of swift Achilles rushing into fight
+Conspicuous, but under sway of hands585
+Unskilful; whence arises a fair hope
+That we might seize them, wert thou so inclined;
+For never would those two dare to oppose
+In battle an assault dreadful as ours.
+  He ended, nor the valiant son refused590
+Of old Anchises, but with targets firm
+Of season’d hide brass-plated thrown athwart
+Their shoulders, both advanced direct, with whom
+Of godlike form Aretus also went
+And Chromius. Ardent hope they all conceived595
+To slay those Chiefs, and from the field to drive
+Achilles’ lofty steeds. Vain hope! for them
+No bloodless strife awaited with the force
+Of brave Automedon; he, prayer to Jove
+First offering, felt his angry soul with might600
+Heroic fill’d, and thus his faithful friend
+Alcimedon, incontinent, address’d.
+  Alcimedon! hold not the steeds remote
+But breathing on my back; for I expect
+That never Priameïan Hector’s rage605
+Shall limit know, or pause, till, slaying us,
+He shall himself the coursers ample-maned
+Mount of Achilles, and to flight compel
+The Argive host, or perish in the van.
+  So saying, he call’d aloud on Menelaus610
+With either Ajax. Oh, illustrious Chiefs
+Of Argos, Menelaus, and ye bold
+Ajaces![9] leaving all your best to cope
+With Ilium’s powers and to protect the dead,
+From friends still living ward the bitter day.615
+For hither borne, two Chiefs, bravest of all
+The Trojans, Hector and Æneas rush
+Right through the battle. The events of war
+Heaven orders; therefore even I will give
+My spear its flight, and Jove dispose the rest!620
+  He said, and brandishing his massy spear
+Dismiss’d it at Aretus; full he smote
+His ample shield, nor stay’d the pointed brass,
+But penetrating sheer the disk, his belt
+Pierced also, and stood planted in his waist.625
+As when some vigorous youth with sharpen’d axe
+A pastured bullock smites behind the horns
+And hews the muscle through; he, at the stroke
+Springs forth and falls, so sprang Aretus forth,
+Then fell supine, and in his bowels stood630
+The keen-edged lance still quivering till he died.
+Then Hector, in return, his radiant spear
+Hurl’d at Automedon, who of its flight
+Forewarn’d his body bowing prone, the stroke
+Eluded, and the spear piercing the soil635
+Behind him, shook to its superior end,
+Till, spent by slow degrees, its fury slept.
+And now, with hand to hilt, for closer war
+Both stood prepared, when through the multitude
+Advancing at their fellow-warrior’s call,640
+The Ajaces suddenly their combat fierce
+Prevented. Awed at once by their approach
+Hector retired, with whom Æneas went
+Also and godlike Chromius, leaving there
+Aretus with his vitals torn, whose arms,645
+Fierce as the God of war Automedon
+Stripp’d off, and thus exulted o’er the slain.
+  My soul some portion of her grief resigns
+Consoled, although by slaughter of a worse,
+For loss of valiant Menœtiades.650
+  So saying, within his chariot he disposed
+The gory spoils, then mounted it himself
+With hands and feet purpled, as from a bull
+His bloody prey, some lion newly-gorged.
+  And now around Patroclus raged again655
+Dread strife deplorable! for from the skies
+Descending at the Thunderer’s command
+Whose purpose now was to assist the Greeks,
+Pallas enhanced the fury of the fight.
+As when from heaven, in view of mortals, Jove660
+Exhibits bright his bow, a sign ordain’d
+Of war, or numbing frost which all the works
+Suspends of man and saddens all the flocks;
+So she, all mantled with a radiant cloud
+Entering Achaia’s host, fired every breast.665
+But meeting Menelaus first, brave son
+Of Atreus, in the form and with the voice
+Robust of Phœnix, him she thus bespake.
+  Shame, Menelaus, shall to thee redound
+For ever, and reproach, should dogs devour670
+The faithful friend of Peleus’ noble son
+Under Troy’s battlements; but stand, thyself,
+Undaunted, and encourage all the host.
+  To whom the son of Atreus bold in arms.
+Ah, Phœnix, friend revered, ancient and sage!675
+Would Pallas give me might and from the dint
+Shield me of dart and spear, with willing mind
+I would defend Patroclus, for his death
+Hath touch’d me deep. But Hector with the rage
+Burns of consuming fire, nor to his spear680
+Gives pause, for him Jove leads to victory.
+  He ceased, whom Pallas, Goddess azure-eyed
+Hearing, rejoiced that of the heavenly powers
+He had invoked _her_ foremost to his aid.
+His shoulders with new might, and limbs she fill’d,685
+And persevering boldness to his breast
+Imparted, such as prompts the fly, which oft
+From flesh of man repulsed, her purpose yet
+To bite holds fast, resolved on human blood.
+His stormy bosom with such courage fill’d690
+By Pallas, to Patroclus he approach’d
+And hurl’d, incontinent, his glittering spear.
+There was a Trojan Chief, Podes by name,
+Son of Eëtion, valorous and rich;
+Of all Troy’s citizens him Hector most695
+Respected, in convivial pleasures sweet
+His chosen companion. As he sprang to flight,
+The hero of the golden locks his belt
+Struck with full force and sent the weapon through.
+Sounding he fell, and from the Trojan ranks700
+Atrides dragg’d the body to his own.
+Then drew Apollo near to Hector’s side,
+And in the form of Phœnops, Asius’ son,
+Of all the foreign guests at Hector’s board
+His favorite most, the hero thus address’d.705
+  What Chief of all the Grecians shall henceforth
+Fear Hector, who from Menelaus shrinks
+Once deem’d effeminate, but dragging now
+The body of thy valiant friend approved
+Whom he hath slain, Podes, Eëtion’s son?710
+  He spake, and at his words grief like a cloud
+Involved the mind of Hector dark around;
+Right through the foremost combatants he rush’d
+All clad in dazzling brass. Then, lifting high
+His tassel’d Ægis radiant, Jove with storms715
+Enveloped Ida; flash’d his lightnings, roar’d
+His thunders, and the mountain shook throughout.
+Troy’s host he prosper’d, and the Greeks dispersed.
+  First fled Peneleus, the Bœotian Chief,
+Whom facing firm the foe Polydamas720
+Struck on his shoulder’s summit with a lance
+Hurl’d nigh at hand, which slight inscribed the bone.
+[10]Leïtus also, son of the renown’d
+Alectryon, pierced by Hector in the wrist,
+Disabled left the fight; trembling he fled725
+And peering narrowly around, nor hoped
+To lift a spear against the Trojans more.
+Hector, pursuing Leïtus, the point
+Encounter’d of the brave Idomeneus
+Full on his chest; but in his mail the lance730
+Snapp’d, and the Trojans shouted to the skies.
+He, in his turn, cast at Deucalion’s son
+Idomeneus, who in that moment gain’d[11]
+A chariot-seat; but him the erring spear
+Attain’d not, piercing Cœranus instead735
+The friend and follower of Meriones
+From wealthy Lyctus, and his charioteer.
+For when he left, that day, the gallant barks
+Idomeneus had sought the field on foot,
+And triumph proud, full sure, to Ilium’s host740
+Had yielded now, but that with rapid haste
+Cœranus drove to his relief, from him
+The fate averting which himself incurr’d
+Victim of Hector’s homicidal arm.
+Him Hector smiting between ear and jaw745
+Push’d from their sockets with the lance’s point
+His firm-set teeth, and sever’d sheer his tongue.
+Dismounted down he fell, and from his hand
+Let slide the flowing reins, which, to the earth
+Stooping, Meriones in haste resumed,750
+And briefly thus Idomeneus address’d.
+  Now drive, and cease not, to the fleet of Greece!
+Thyself see’st victory no longer ours.
+  He said; Idomeneus whom, now, dismay
+Seized also, with his lash plying severe755
+The coursers ample-maned, flew to the fleet.
+Nor Ajax, dauntless hero, not perceived,
+Nor Menelaus, by the sway of Jove
+The victory inclining fast to Troy,
+And thus the Telamonian Chief began.760
+  Ah! who can be so blind as not to see
+The eternal Father, now, with his own hand
+Awarding glory to the Trojan host,
+Whose every spear flies, instant, to the mark
+Sent forth by brave or base? Jove guides them all,765
+While, ineffectual, ours fall to the ground.
+But haste, devise we of ourselves the means
+How likeliest we may bear Patroclus hence,
+And gladden, safe returning, all our friends,
+Who, hither looking anxious, hope have none770
+That we shall longer check the unconquer’d force
+Of hero-slaughtering Hector, but expect
+[12]To see him soon amid the fleet of Greece.
+Oh for some Grecian now to carry swift
+The tidings to Achilles’ ear, untaught,775
+As I conjecture, yet the doleful news
+Of his Patroclus slain! but no such Greek
+May I discern, such universal gloom
+Both men and steeds envelops all around.
+Father of heaven and earth! deliver thou780
+Achaia’s host from darkness; clear the skies;
+Give day; and (since thy sovereign will is such)
+Destruction with it—but oh give us day![13]
+  He spake, whose tears Jove saw with pity moved,
+And chased the untimely shades; bright beam’d the sun785
+And the whole battle was display’d. Then spake
+The hero thus to Atreus’ mighty son.
+  Now noble Menelaus! looking forth,
+See if Antilochus be yet alive,
+Brave son of Nestor, whom exhort to fly790
+With tidings to Achilles, of the friend
+Whom most he loved, of his Patroclus slain.
+  He ceased, nor Menelaus, dauntless Chief,
+That task refused, but went; yet neither swift
+Nor willing. As a lion leaves the stalls795
+Wearied himself with harassing the guard,
+Who, interdicting him his purposed prey,
+Watch all the night; he famish’d, yet again
+Comes furious on, but speeds not, kept aloof
+By spears from daring hands dismissed, but more800
+By flash of torches which, though fierce, he dreads,
+Till at the dawn, sullen he stalks away;
+So from Patroclus Menelaus went
+Heroic Chief! reluctant; for he fear’d
+Lest the Achaians should resign the dead,805
+Through consternation, to the host of Troy.
+Departing, therefore, he admonish’d oft
+Meriones and the Ajaces, thus.
+  Ye two brave leaders of the Argive host,
+And thou, Meriones! now recollect810
+The gentle manners of Patroclus fallen
+Hapless in battle, who by carriage mild
+Well understood, while yet he lived, to engage
+All hearts, through prisoner now of death and fate.
+  So saying, the hero amber-hair’d his steps815
+Turn’d thence, the field exploring with an eye
+Sharp as the eagle’s, of all fowls beneath
+The azure heavens for keenest sight renown’d,
+Whom, though he soar sublime, the leveret
+By broadest leaves conceal’d ’scapes not, but swift820
+Descending, even her he makes his prey;
+So, noble Menelaus! were thine eyes
+Turn’d into every quarter of the host
+In search of Nestor’s son, if still he lived.
+Him, soon, encouraging his band to fight,825
+He noticed on the left of all the field,
+And sudden standing at his side, began.
+  Antilochus! oh hear me, noble friend!
+And thou shalt learn tidings of such a deed
+As best had never been. Thou know’st, I judge,830
+And hast already seen, how Jove exalts
+To victory the Trojan host, and rolls
+Distress on ours; but ah! Patroclus lies,
+Our chief Achaian, slain, whose loss the Greeks
+Fills with regret. Haste, therefore, to the fleet,835
+Inform Achilles; bid him haste to save,
+If save he can, the body of his friend;
+He can no more, for Hector hath his arms.
+  He ceased. Antilochus with horror heard
+Those tidings; mute long time he stood, his eyes840
+Swam tearful, and his voice, sonorous erst,
+Found utterance none. Yet even so distress’d,
+He not the more neglected the command
+Of Menelaus. Setting forth to run,
+He gave his armor to his noble friend845
+Laodocus, who thither turn’d his steeds,
+And weeping as he went, on rapid feet
+Sped to Achilles with that tale of wo.
+  Nor could the noble Menelaus stay
+To give the weary Pylian band, bereft850
+Of their beloved Antilochus, his aid,
+But leaving them to Thrasymedes’ care,
+He flew to Menœtiades again,
+And the Ajaces, thus, instant bespake.
+  He goes. I have dispatch’d him to the fleet855
+To seek Achilles; but his coming naught
+Expect I now, although with rage he burn
+Against illustrious Hector; for what fight
+Can he, unarm’d, against the Trojans wage?
+Deliberating, therefore, frame we means860
+How best to save Patroclus, and to ’scape
+Ourselves unslain from this disastrous field.
+  Whom answer’d the vast son of Telamon.
+Most noble Menelaus! good is all
+Which thou hast spoken. Lift ye from the earth865
+Thou and Meriones, at once, and bear
+The dead Patroclus from the bloody field.
+To cope meantime with Hector and his host
+Shall be our task, who, one in name, nor less
+In spirit one, already have the brunt870
+Of much sharp conflict, side by side, sustain’d.
+  He ended; they enfolding in their arms
+The dead, upbore him high above the ground
+With force united; after whom the host
+Of Troy, seeing the body borne away,875
+Shouted, and with impetuous onset all
+Follow’d them. As the hounds, urged from behind
+By youthful hunters, on the wounded boar
+Make fierce assault; awhile at utmost speed
+They stretch toward him hungering, for the prey,880
+But oft as, turning sudden, the stout brawn
+Faces them, scatter’d on all sides escape;
+The Trojans so, thick thronging in the rear,
+Ceaseless with falchions and spears double-edged
+Annoy’d them sore, but oft as in retreat885
+The dauntless heroes, the Ajaces turn’d
+To face them, deadly wan grew every cheek,
+And not a Trojan dared with onset rude
+Molest them more in conflict for the dead.
+  Thus they, laborious, forth from battle bore890
+Patroclus to the fleet, tempestuous war
+Their steps attending, rapid as the flames
+Which, kindled suddenly, some city waste;
+Consumed amid the blaze house after house
+Sinks, and the wind, meantime, roars through the fire;895
+So them a deafening tumult as they went
+Pursued, of horses and of men spear-arm’d.
+And as two mules with strength for toil endued,
+Draw through rough ways down from the distant hills
+Huge timber, beam or mast; sweating they go,900
+And overlabor’d to faint weariness;
+So they the body bore, while, turning oft,
+The Ajaces check’d the Trojans. As a mound
+Planted with trees and stretch’d athwart the mead
+Repels an overflow; the torrents loud905
+Baffling, it sends them far away to float
+The level land, nor can they with the force
+Of all their waters burst a passage through;
+So the Ajaces, constant, in the rear
+Repress’d the Trojans; but the Trojans them910
+Attended still, of whom Æneas most
+Troubled them, and the glorious Chief of Troy.
+They as a cloud of starlings or of daws
+Fly screaming shrill, warn’d timely of the kite
+Or hawk, devourers of the smaller kinds,915
+So they shrill-clamoring toward the fleet,
+Hasted before Æneas and the might
+Of Hector, nor the battle heeded more.
+Much radiant armor round about the foss
+Fell of the flying Grecians, or within920
+Lay scatter’d, and no pause of war they found.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XVIII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE EIGHTEENTH BOOK.
+
+Achilles, by command of Juno, shows himself to the Trojans, who fly at
+his appearance; Vulcan, at the insistence of Thetis, forges for him a
+suit of armor.
+
+
+BOOK XVIII.
+
+
+Thus burn’d the battle like devouring fire.
+Meantime, Antilochus with rapid steps
+Came to Achilles. Him he found before
+His lofty barks, occupied, as he stood,
+With boding fears of all that had befall’n.5
+He groan’d, and to his noble self he said.
+  Ah! wo is me—why falls Achaia’s host,
+With such disorder foul, back on the fleet?
+I tremble lest the Gods my anxious thoughts
+Accomplish and my mother’s words, who erst10
+Hath warn’d me, that the bravest and the best
+Of all my Myrmidons, while yet I live,
+Slain under Troy, must view the sun no more.
+Brave Menœtiades is, doubtless, slain.
+Unhappy friend! I bade thee oft, our barks15
+Deliver’d once from hostile fires, not seek
+To cope in arms with Hector, but return.
+  While musing thus he stood, the son approach’d
+Of noble Nestor, and with tears his cheeks
+Bedewing copious, his sad message told.20
+  Oh son of warlike Peleus! thou shalt hear
+Tidings of deeds which best had never been.
+Patroclus is no more. The Grecians fight
+For his bare corse, and Hector hath his arms.[1]
+
+  Then clouds of sorrow fell on Peleus’ son,25
+And, grasping with both hands the ashes, down
+He pour’d them on his head, his graceful brows
+Dishonoring, and thick the sooty shower
+Descending settled on his fragrant vest.
+Then, stretch’d in ashes, at the vast extent30
+Of his whole length he lay, disordering wild
+With his own hands, and rending off his hair.
+The maidens, captived by himself in war
+And by Patroclus, shrieking from the tent
+Ran forth, and hemm’d the glorious Chief around.[2]35
+All smote their bosoms, and all, fainting, fell.
+On the other side, Antilochus the hands
+Held of Achilles, mourning and deep groans
+Uttering from his noble heart, through fear
+Lest Peleus’ son should perish self-destroy’d.40
+Loud groan’d the hero, whose loud groans within
+The gulfs of ocean, where she sat beside
+Her ancient sire, his Goddess-mother heard,
+And hearing shriek’d; around her at the voice
+Assembled all the Nereids of the deep45
+Cymodoce, Thalia, Glauca came,
+Nisæa, Spio, Thoa, and with eyes
+Protuberant beauteous Halia; came with these
+Cymothöe, and Actæa, and the nymph
+Of marshes, Limnorea, nor delay’d50
+Agave, nor Amphithöe the swift,
+Iæra, Doto, Melita, nor thence
+Was absent Proto or Dynamene,
+Callianira, Doris, Panope,
+Pherusa or Amphinome, or fair55
+Dexamene, or Galatea praised
+For matchless form divine; Nemertes pure
+Came also, with Apseudes crystal-bright,
+Callianassa, Mæra, Clymene,
+Janeira and Janassa, sister pair,60
+And Orithya and with azure locks
+Luxuriant, Amathea; nor alone
+Came these, but every ocean-nymph beside,
+The silver cave was fill’d; each smote her breast,
+And Thetis, loud lamenting, thus began.65
+  Ye sister Nereids, hear! that ye may all
+From my own lips my boundless sorrow learn.
+Ah me forlorn! ah me, parent in vain
+Of an illustrious birth! who, having borne
+A noble son magnanimous, the chief70
+Of heroes, saw him like a thriving plant
+Shoot vigorous under my maternal care,
+And sent him early in his gallant fleet
+Embark’d, to combat with the sons of Troy.
+But him from fight return’d I shall receive75
+Beneath the roof of Peleus, never more;
+And while he lives, and on the sun his eyes
+Opens, he mourns, nor, going, can I aught
+Assist him; yet I go, that I may see
+My darling son, and from his lips be taught80
+What grief hath now befallen him, who close
+Abiding in his tent shares not the war.
+So saying she left the cave, whom all her nymphs
+Attended weeping, and where’er they pass’d
+The breaking billows open’d wide a way.85
+At fruitful Troy arrived, in order fair
+They climb’d the beach, where by his numerous barks
+Encompass’d, swift Achilles sighing lay.
+Then, drawing nigh to her afflicted son,
+The Goddess-mother press’d between her palms90
+His temples, and in accents wing’d inquired.
+  Why weeps my son? what sorrow wrings thy soul?
+Speak, hide it not. Jove hath fulfill’d the prayer
+Which erst with lifted hands thou didst prefer,
+That all Achaia’s host, wanting thy aid,95
+Might be compell’d into the fleet, and foul
+Disgrace incur, there prison’d for thy sake.
+  To whom Achilles, groaning deep, replied.
+My mother! it is true; Olympian Jove
+That prayer fulfils; but thence, what joy to me,100
+Patroclus slain? the friend of all my friends
+Whom most I loved, dear to me as my life—
+Him I have lost. Slain and despoil’d he lies
+By Hector of his glorious armor bright,
+The wonder of all eyes, a matchless gift105
+Given by the Gods to Peleus on that day
+When thee they doom’d into a mortal’s arms.
+Oh that with these thy deathless ocean-nymphs
+Dwelling content, thou hadst my father left
+To espouse a mortal bride, so hadst thou ’scaped110
+Pangs numberless which thou must now endure
+For thy son’s death, whom thou shalt never meet
+From Troy return’d, in Peleus’ mansion more!
+For life I covet not, nor longer wish
+To mix with human kind, unless my spear115
+May find out Hector, and atonement take
+By slaying him, for my Patroclus slain.
+  To whom, with streaming tears, Thetis replied.
+Swift comes thy destiny as thou hast said,
+For after Hector’s death thine next ensues.120
+  Then answer, thus, indignant he return’d.
+Death, seize me now! since when my friend was slain,
+My doom was, not to succor him. He died
+From home remote, and wanting me to save him.
+Now, therefore, since I neither visit more125
+My native land, nor, present here, have aught
+Avail’d Patroclus or my many friends
+Whom noble Hector hath in battle slain,
+But here I sit unprofitable grown,
+Earth’s burden, though of such heroic note,130
+If not in council foremost (for I yield
+That prize to others) yet in feats of arms,
+Such as none other in Achaia’s host,
+May fierce contention from among the Gods
+Perish, and from among the human race,135
+With wrath, which sets the wisest hearts on fire;
+Sweeter than dropping honey to the taste,
+But in the bosom of mankind, a smoke![3]
+Such was my wrath which Agamemnon roused,
+The king of men. But since the past is fled140
+Irrevocable, howsoe’er distress’d,
+Renounce we now vain musings on the past,
+Content through sad necessity. I go
+In quest of noble Hector, who hath slain
+My loved Patroclus, and such death will take145
+As Jove ordains me and the Powers of Heaven
+At their own season, send it when they may.
+For neither might the force of Hercules,
+Although high-favored of Saturnian Jove,
+From death escape, but Fate and the revenge150
+Restless of Juno vanquish’d even Him.
+I also, if a destiny like his
+Await me, shall, like him, find rest in death;
+But glory calls me now; now will I make
+Some Trojan wife or Dardan with both hands155
+Wipe her soft cheeks, and utter many a groan.
+Long time have I been absent from the field,
+And they shall know it. Love me as thou may’st,
+Yet thwart me not, for I am fixt to go.
+  Whom Thetis answer’d, Goddess of the Deep.160
+Thou hast well said, my son! it is no blame
+To save from threaten’d death our suffering friends.
+But thy magnificent and dazzling arms
+Are now in Trojan hands; them Hector wears
+Exulting, but ordain’d not long to exult,165
+So habited; his death is also nigh.
+But thou with yonder warring multitudes
+Mix not till thou behold me here again;
+For with the rising sun I will return
+To-morrow, and will bring thee glorious arms,170
+By Vulcan forged himself, the King of fire.[4]
+  She said, and turning from her son aside,
+The sisterhood of Ocean thus address’d.
+  Plunge ye again into the briny Deep,
+And to the hoary Sovereign of the floods175
+Report as ye have heard. I to the heights
+Olympian haste, that I may there obtain
+From Vulcan, glorious artist of the skies,
+Arms of excelling beauty for my son.
+  She said; they plunged into the waves again,180
+And silver-footed Thetis, to the heights
+Olympian soaring swiftly to obtain
+Arms for renown’d Achilles, disappear’d.
+  Meantime, with infinite uproar the Greeks
+From Hector’s hero-slaying arm had fled185
+Home to their galleys station’d on the banks
+Of Hellespont. Nor yet Achaia’s sons
+Had borne the body of Patroclus clear
+From flight of darts away, but still again
+The multitude of warriors and of steeds190
+Came on, by Priameian Hector led
+Rapid as fire. Thrice noble Hector seized
+His ancles from behind, ardent to drag
+Patroclus, calling to his host the while;
+But thrice, the two Ajaces, clothed with might,195
+Shock’d and repulsed him reeling. He with force
+Fill’d indefatigable, through his ranks
+Issuing, by turns assail’d them, and by turns
+Stood clamoring, yet not a step retired;
+But as the hinds deter not from his prey200
+A tawny lion by keen hunger urged,
+So would not both Ajaces, warriors bold,
+Intimidate and from the body drive
+Hector; and he had dragg’d him thence and won
+Immortal glory, but that Iris, sent205
+Unseen by Jove and by the powers of heaven,
+From Juno, to Achilles brought command
+That he should show himself. Full near she drew,
+And in wing’d accents thus the Chief address’d.
+  Hero! most terrible of men, arise!210
+protect Patroclus, for whose sake the war
+Stands at the fleet of Greece. Mutual prevails
+The slaughter, these the dead defending, those
+Resolute hence to drag him to the gates
+Of wind-swept Ilium. But beyond them all215
+Illustrious Hector, obstinate is bent
+To win him, purposing to lop his head,
+And to exhibit it impaled on high.
+Thou then arise, nor longer on the ground
+Lie stretch’d inactive; let the thought with shame220
+Touch thee, of thy Patroclus made the sport
+Of Trojan dogs, whose corse, if it return
+Dishonored home, brings with it thy reproach.
+  To whom Achilles matchless in the race.
+Iris divine! of all the Gods, who sent thee?225
+  Then, thus, the swift ambassadress of heaven.
+By Juno sent I come, consort of Jove.
+Nor knows Saturnian Jove high-throned, himself,
+My flight, nor any of the Immortal Powers,
+Tenants of the Olympian heights snow-crown’d.230
+  Her answer’d then Pelides, glorious Chief.
+How shall I seek the fight? they have my arms.
+My mother charged me also to abstain
+From battle, till she bring me armor new
+Which she hath promised me from Vulcan’s hand.235
+Meantime, whose armor else might serve my need
+I know not, save perhaps alone the shield
+Of Telamonian Ajax, whom I deem
+Himself now busied in the stormy van,
+Slaying the Trojans in my friend’s defence.240
+  To whom the swift-wing’d messenger of heaven,
+Full well we know thine armor Hector’s prize
+Yet, issuing to the margin of the foss,
+Show thyself only. Panic-seized, perchance,
+The Trojans shall from fight desist, and yield245
+To the o’ertoil’d though dauntless sons of Greece
+Short respite; it is all that war allows.
+  So saying, the storm-wing’d Iris disappear’d.
+Then rose at once Achilles dear to Jove,
+Athwart whose shoulders broad Minerva cast250
+Her Ægis fringed terrific, and his brows
+Encircled with a golden cloud that shot
+Fires insupportable to sight abroad.
+As when some island, situate afar
+On the wide waves, invested all the day255
+By cruel foes from their own city pour’d,
+Upsends a smoke to heaven, and torches shows
+On all her turrets at the close of eve
+Which flash against the clouds, kindled in hope
+Of aid from neighbor maritime allies,260
+So from Achilles’ head light flash’d to heaven.
+Issuing through the wall, beside the foss
+He stood, but mix’d not with Achaia’s host,
+Obedient to his mother’s wise command.
+He stood and shouted; Pallas also raised265
+A dreadful shout and tumult infinite
+Excited throughout all the host of Troy.
+Clear as the trumpet’s note when it proclaims
+A numerous host approaching to invest
+Some city close around, so clear the voice270
+Rang of Æacides, and tumult-toss’d
+Was every soul that heard the brazen tone.
+With swift recoil the long-maned coursers thrust
+The chariots back, all boding wo at hand,
+And every charioteer astonish’d saw275
+Fires that fail’d not, illumining the brows
+Of Peleus’ son, by Pallas kindled there.
+Thrice o’er the trench Achilles sent his voice
+Sonorous, and confusion at the sound
+Thrice seized the Trojans, and their famed allies.280
+Twelve in that moment of their noblest died
+By their own spears and chariots, and with joy
+The Grecians from beneath a hill of darts
+Dragging Patroclus, placed him on his bier.
+Around him throng’d his fellow-warriors bold,285
+All weeping, after whom Achilles went
+Fast-weeping also at the doleful sight
+Of his true friend on his funereal bed
+Extended, gash’d with many a mortal wound,
+Whom he had sent into the fight with steeds290
+And chariot, but received him thence no more.
+  And now majestic Juno sent the sun,
+Unwearied minister of light, although
+Reluctant, down into the Ocean stream.[5]
+So the sun sank, and the Achaians ceased295
+From the all-wasting labors of the war.
+On the other side, the Trojans, from the fight
+Retiring, loosed their steeds, but ere they took
+Thought of refreshment, in full council met.
+It was a council at which no man sat,300
+Or dared; all stood; such terror had on all
+Fallen, for that Achilles had appear’d,
+After long pause from battle’s arduous toil.
+First rose Polydamas the prudent son
+Of Panthus, above all the Trojans skill’d305
+Both in futurity and in the past.
+He was the friend of Hector, and one night
+Gave birth to both. In council one excell’d
+And one still more in feats of high renown.
+Thus then, admonishing them, he began.310
+  My friends! weigh well the occasion. Back to Troy
+By my advice, nor wait the sacred morn
+Here, on the plain, from Ilium’s walls remote
+So long as yet the anger of this Chief
+’Gainst noble Agamemnon burn’d, so long315
+We found the Greeks less formidable foes,
+And I rejoiced, myself, spending the night
+Beside their oary barks, for that I hoped
+To seize them; but I now tremble at thought
+Of Peleus’ rapid son again in arms.320
+A spirit proud as his will scorn to fight
+Here, on the plain, where Greeks and Trojans take
+Their common share of danger and of toil,
+And will at once strike at your citadel,
+Impatient till he make your wives his prey.325
+Haste—let us home—else thus shall it befall;
+Night’s balmy influence in his tent detains
+Achilles now, but rushing arm’d abroad
+To-morrow, should he find us lingering here,
+None shall mistake him then; happy the man330
+Who soonest, then, shall ’scape to sacred Troy!
+Then, dogs shall make and vultures on our flesh
+Plenteous repast. Oh spare mine ears the tale!
+But if, though troubled, ye can yet receive
+My counsel, thus assembled we will keep335
+Strict guard to-night; meantime, her gates and towers
+With all their mass of solid timbers, smooth
+And cramp’d with bolts of steel, will keep the town.
+But early on the morrow we will stand
+All arm’d on Ilium’s towers. Then, if he choose,340
+His galleys left, to compass Troy about,
+He shall be task’d enough; his lofty steeds
+Shall have their fill of coursing to and fro
+Beneath, and gladly shall to camp return.
+But waste the town he shall not, nor attempt345
+With all the utmost valor that he boasts
+To force a pass; dogs shall devour him first.
+  To whom brave Hector louring, and in wrath.
+Polydamas, I like not thy advice
+Who bidd’st us in our city skulk, again350
+Imprison’d there. Are ye not yet content?
+Wish ye for durance still in your own towers?
+Time was, when in all regions under heaven
+Men praised the wealth of Priam’s city stored
+With gold and brass; but all our houses now355
+Stand emptied of their hidden treasures rare.
+Jove in his wrath hath scatter’d them; our wealth
+Is marketed, and Phrygia hath a part
+Purchased, and part Mæonia’s lovely land.
+But since the son of wily Saturn old360
+Hath given me glory now, and to inclose
+The Grecians in their fleet hemm’d by the sea,
+Fool! taint not with such talk the public mind.
+For not a Trojan here will thy advice
+Follow, or shall; it hath not my consent.365
+But thus I counsel. Let us, band by band,
+Throughout the host take supper, and let each,
+Guarded against nocturnal danger, watch.
+And if a Trojan here be rack’d in mind
+Lest his possessions perish, let him cast370
+His golden heaps into the public maw,[6]
+Far better so consumed than by the Greeks.
+Then, with the morrow’s dawn, all fair array’d
+In battle, we will give them at their fleet
+Sharp onset, and if Peleus’ noble son375
+Have risen indeed to conflict for the ships,
+The worse for him. I shall not for his sake
+Avoid the deep-toned battle, but will firm
+Oppose his utmost. Either he shall gain
+Or I, great glory. Mars his favors deals380
+Impartial, and the slayer oft is slain.
+So counsell’d Hector, whom with shouts of praise
+The Trojans answer’d:—fools, and by the power
+Of Pallas of all sober thought bereft!
+For all applauded Hector, who had given385
+Advice pernicious, and Polydamas,
+Whose counsel was discreet and wholesome none.
+So then they took repast. But all night long
+The Grecians o’er Patroclus wept aloud,
+While, standing in the midst, Pelides led390
+The lamentation, heaving many a groan,
+And on the bosom of his breathless friend
+Imposing, sad, his homicidal hands.
+As the grim lion, from whose gloomy lair
+Among thick trees the hunter hath his whelps395
+Purloin’d, too late returning mourns his loss,
+Then, up and down, the length of many a vale
+Courses, exploring fierce the robber’s foot,
+Incensed as he, and with a sigh deep-drawn
+Thus to his Myrmidons Achilles spake.400
+  How vain, alas! my word spoken that day
+At random, when to soothe the hero’s fears
+Menœtius, then our guest, I promised him
+His noble son at Opoeis again,
+Living and laden with the spoils of Troy!405
+But Jove performs not all the thoughts of man,
+For we were both destined to tinge the soil
+Of Ilium with our blood, nor I shall see,
+Myself, my father in his mansion more
+Or Thetis, but must find my burial here.410
+Yet, my Patroclus! since the earth expects
+Me next, I will not thy funereal rites
+Finish, till I shall bring both head and arms
+Of that bold Chief who slew thee, to my tent.
+I also will smite off, before thy pile,415
+The heads of twelve illustrious sons of Troy,
+Resentful of thy death. Meantime, among
+My lofty galleys thou shalt lie, with tears
+Mourn’d day and night by Trojan captives fair
+And Dardan compassing thy bier around,420
+Whom we, at price of labor hard, ourselves
+With massy spears toiling in battle took
+From many an opulent city, now no more.
+  So saying, he bade his train surround with fire
+A tripod huge, that they might quickly cleanse425
+Patroclus from all stain of clotted gore.
+They on the blazing hearth a tripod placed
+Capacious, fill’d with water its wide womb,
+And thrust dry wood beneath, till, fierce, the flames
+Embraced it round, and warm’d the flood within.430
+Soon as the water in the singing brass
+Simmer’d, they bathed him, and with limpid oil
+Anointed; filling, next, his ruddy wounds
+With unguent mellow’d by nine circling years,
+They stretch’d him on his bed, then cover’d him435
+From head to feet with linen texture light,
+And with a wide unsullied mantle, last.[7]
+All night the Myrmidons around the swift
+Achilles stood, deploring loud his friend,
+And Jove his spouse and sister thus bespake.440
+  So then, Imperial Juno! not in vain
+Thou hast the swift Achilles sought to rouse
+Again to battle; the Achaians, sure,
+Are thy own children, thou hast borne them all.
+  To whom the awful Goddess ample-eyed.445
+What word hath pass’d thy lips, Jove, most severe?
+A man, though mortal merely, and to me
+Inferior in device, might have achieved
+That labor easily. Can I who boast
+Myself the chief of Goddesses, and such450
+Not by birth only, but as thine espoused,
+Who art thyself sovereign of all the Gods,
+Can I with anger burn against the house
+Of Priam, and want means of just revenge?
+
+  Thus they in heaven their mutual conference455
+Meantime, the silver-footed Thetis reach’d
+The starr’d abode eternal, brazen wall’d
+Of Vulcan, by the builder lame himself
+Uprear’d, a wonder even in eyes divine.
+She found him sweating, at his bellows huge460
+Toiling industrious; tripods bright he form’d
+Twenty at once, his palace-wall to grace
+Ranged in harmonious order. Under each
+Two golden wheels he set, on which (a sight
+Marvellous!) into council they should roll465
+Self-moved, and to his house, self-moved, return.
+Thus far the work was finish’d, but not yet
+Their ears of exquisite design affixt,
+For them he stood fashioning, and prepared
+The rivets. While he thus his matchless skill470
+Employ’d laborious, to his palace-gate
+The silver-footed Thetis now advanced,
+Whom Charis, Vulcan’s well-attired spouse,
+Beholding from the palace portal, flew
+To seize the Goddess’ hand, and thus inquired.475
+  Why, Thetis! worthy of all reverence
+And of all love, comest thou to our abode,
+Unfrequent here? But enter, and accept
+Such welcome as to such a guest is due.
+  So saying, she introduced and to a seat480
+Led her with argent studs border’d around
+And foot-stool’d sumptuously;[8] then, calling forth
+Her spouse, the glorious artist, thus she said.
+  Haste, Vulcan! Thetis wants thee; linger not.
+To whom the artist of the skies replied.485
+  A Goddess then, whom with much cause I love
+And venerate is here, who when I fell
+Saved me, what time my shameless mother sought
+To cast me, because lame, out of all sight;
+Then had I been indeed forlorn, had not490
+Eurynome the daughter of the Deep
+And Thetis in their laps received me fallen.
+Nine years with them residing, for their use
+I form’d nice trinkets, clasps, rings, pipes, and chains,
+While loud around our hollow cavern roar’d495
+The surge of the vast deep, nor God nor man,
+Save Thetis and Eurynome, my life’s
+Preservers, knew where I was kept conceal’d.
+Since, therefore, she is come, I cannot less
+Than recompense to Thetis amber-hair’d500
+With readiness the boon of life preserved.
+Haste, then, and hospitably spread the board
+For her regale, while with my best dispatch
+I lay my bellows and my tools aside.
+  He spake, and vast in bulk and hot with toil505
+Rose limping from beside his anvil-stock
+Upborne, with pain on legs tortuous and weak.
+First, from the forge dislodged he thrust apart
+His bellows, and his tools collecting all
+Bestow’d them, careful, in a silver chest,510
+Then all around with a wet sponge he wiped
+His visage, and his arms and brawny neck
+Purified, and his shaggy breast from smutch;
+Last, putting on his vest, he took in hand
+His sturdy staff, and shuffled through the door.515
+Beside the King of fire two golden forms
+Majestic moved, that served him in the place
+Of handmaids; young they seem’d, and seem’d alive,
+Nor want they intellect, or speech, or force,
+Or prompt dexterity by the Gods inspired.520
+These his supporters were, and at his side
+Attendant diligent, while he, with gait
+Uncouth, approaching Thetis where she sat
+On a bright throne, seized fast her hand and said,
+  Why, Thetis! worthy as thou art of love525
+And of all reverence, hast thou arrived,
+Unfrequent here? Speak—tell me thy desire,
+Nor doubt my services, if thou demand
+Things possible, and possible to me.
+  Then Thetis, weeping plenteously, replied.530
+Oh Vulcan! Is there on Olympius’ heights
+A Goddess with such load of sorrow press’d
+As, in peculiar, Jove assigns to me?
+Me only, of all ocean-nymphs, he made
+Spouse to a man, Peleus Æacides,535
+Whose bed, although reluctant and perforce,
+I yet endured to share. He now, the prey
+Of cheerless age, decrepid lies, and Jove
+Still other woes heaps on my wretched head.
+He gave me to bring forth, gave me to rear540
+A son illustrious, valiant, and the chief
+Of heroes; he, like a luxuriant plant
+Upran[9] to manhood, while his lusty growth
+I nourish’d as the husbandman his vine
+Set in a fruitful field, and being grown545
+I sent him early in his gallant fleet
+Embark’d, to combat with the sons of Troy;
+But him from fight return’d I shall receive,
+Beneath the roof of Peleus, never more,
+And while he lives and on the sun his eyes550
+Opens, affliction is his certain doom,
+Nor aid resides or remedy in me.
+The virgin, his own portion of the spoils,
+Allotted to him by the Grecians—her
+Atrides, King of men, resumed, and grief555
+Devour’d Achilles’ spirit for her sake.
+Meantime, the Trojans shutting close within
+Their camp the Grecians, have forbidden them
+All egress, and the senators of Greece
+Have sought with splendid gifts to soothe my son.560
+He, indisposed to rescue them himself
+From ruin, sent, instead, Patroclus forth,
+Clad in his own resplendent armor, Chief
+Of the whole host of Myrmidons. Before
+The Scæan gate from morn to eve they fought,565
+And on that self-same day had Ilium fallen,
+But that Apollo, to advance the fame
+Of Hector, slew Menœtius’ noble son
+Full-flush’d with victory. Therefore at thy knees
+Suppliant I fall, imploring from thine art570
+A shield and helmet, greaves of shapely form
+With clasps secured, and corselet for my son.
+For those, once his, his faithful friend hath lost,
+Slain by the Trojans, and Achilles lies,
+Himself, extended mournful on the ground.575
+  Her answer’d then the artist of the skies.
+Courage! Perplex not with these cares thy soul.
+I would that when his fatal hour shall come,
+I could as sure secrete him from the stroke
+Of destiny, as he shall soon have arms580
+Illustrious, such as each particular man
+Of thousands, seeing them, shall wish his own.
+  He said, and to his bellows quick repair’d,
+Which turning to the fire he bade them heave.
+Full twenty bellows working all at once595
+Breathed on the furnace, blowing easy and free
+The managed winds, now forcible, as best
+Suited dispatch, now gentle, if the will
+Of Vulcan and his labor so required.
+Impenetrable brass, tin, silver, gold,590
+He cast into the forge, then, settling firm
+His ponderous anvil on the block, one hand
+With his huge hammer fill’d, one with the tongs.
+  [10]He fashion’d first a shield massy and broad
+Of labor exquisite, for which he form’d595
+A triple border beauteous, dazzling bright,
+And loop’d it with a silver brace behind.
+The shield itself with five strong folds he forged,
+And with devices multiform the disk
+Capacious charged, toiling with skill divine.600
+  There he described the earth, the heaven, the sea,
+The sun that rests not, and the moon full-orb’d.
+There also, all the stars which round about
+As with a radiant frontlet bind the skies,
+The Pleiads and the Hyads, and the might605
+Of huge Orion, with him Ursa call’d,
+Known also by his popular name, the Wain,
+That spins around the pole looking toward
+Orion, only star of these denied
+To slake his beams in ocean’s briny baths.610
+  Two splendid cities also there he form’d
+Such as men build. In one were to be seen
+Rites matrimonial solemnized with pomp
+Of sumptuous banquets; from their chambers forth
+Leading the brides they usher’d them along615
+With torches through the streets, and sweet was heard
+The voice around of Hymenæal song.
+Here striplings danced in circles to the sound
+Of pipe and harp, while in the portals stood
+Women, admiring, all, the gallant show.620
+Elsewhere was to be seen in council met
+The close-throng’d multitude. There strife arose.
+Two citizens contended for a mulct
+The price of blood. This man affirm’d the fine
+All paid,[11] haranguing vehement the crowd,625
+That man denied that he had aught received,
+And to the judges each made his appeal
+Eager for their award. Meantime the people,
+As favor sway’d them, clamor’d loud for each.
+The heralds quell’d the tumult; reverend sat630
+On polish’d stones the elders in a ring,
+Each with a herald’s sceptre in his hand,
+Which holding they arose, and all in turn
+Gave sentence. In the midst two talents lay
+Of gold, his destined recompense whose voice635
+Decisive should pronounce the best award.
+The other city by two glittering hosts
+Invested stood, and a dispute arose
+Between the hosts, whether to burn the town
+And lay all waste, or to divide the spoil.640
+Meantime, the citizens, still undismay’d,
+Surrender’d not the town, but taking arms
+Secretly, set the ambush in array,
+And on the walls their wives and children kept
+Vigilant guard, with all the ancient men.645
+They sallied; at their head Pallas and Mars
+Both golden and in golden vests attired
+Advanced, proportion each showing divine,
+Large, prominent, and such as Gods beseem’d.
+Not such the people, but of humbler size.650
+Arriving at the spot for ambush chosen,
+A river’s side, where cattle of each kind
+Drank, down they sat, all arm’d in dazzling brass.
+Apart from all the rest sat also down
+Two spies, both looking for the flocks and herds.655
+Soon they appear’d, and at their side were seen
+Two shepherd swains, each playing on his pipe
+Careless, and of the danger nought apprized,
+Swift ran the spies, perceiving their approach,
+And intercepting suddenly the herds660
+And flocks of silver fleece, slew also those
+Who fed them. The besiegers, at that time
+In council, by the sound alarm’d, their steeds
+Mounted, and hasted, instant, to the place;
+Then, standing on the river’s brink they fought665
+And push’d each other with the brazen lance.
+There Discord raged, there Tumult, and the force
+Of ruthless Destiny; she now a Chief
+Seized newly wounded, and now captive held
+Another yet unhurt, and now a third670
+Dragg’d breathless through the battle by his feet
+And all her garb was dappled thick with blood
+Like living men they traversed and they strove,
+And dragg’d by turns the bodies of the slain.
+  He also graved on it a fallow field675
+Rich, spacious, and well-till’d. Plowers not few,
+There driving to and fro their sturdy teams,
+Labor’d the land; and oft as in their course
+They came to the field’s bourn, so oft a man
+Met them, who in their hands a goblet placed680
+Charged with delicious wine. They, turning, wrought
+Each his own furrow, and impatient seem’d
+To reach the border of the tilth, which black
+Appear’d behind them as a glebe new-turn’d,
+Though golden. Sight to be admired by all!685
+  There too he form’d the likeness of a field
+Crowded with corn, in which the reapers toil’d
+Each with a sharp-tooth’d sickle in his hand.
+Along the furrow here, the harvest fell
+In frequent handfuls, there, they bound the sheaves.690
+Three binders of the sheaves their sultry task
+All plied industrious, and behind them boys
+Attended, filling with the corn their arms
+And offering still their bundles to be bound.
+Amid them, staff in hand, the master stood695
+Silent exulting, while beneath an oak
+Apart, his heralds busily prepared
+The banquet, dressing a well-thriven ox
+New slain, and the attendant maidens mix’d
+Large supper for the hinds of whitest flour.700
+  There also, laden with its fruit he form’d
+A vineyard all of gold; purple he made
+The clusters, and the vines supported stood
+By poles of silver set in even rows.
+The trench he color’d sable, and around705
+Fenced it with tin. One only path it show’d
+By which the gatherers when they stripp’d the vines
+Pass’d and repass’d. There, youths and maidens blithe
+In frails of wicker bore the luscious fruit,
+While, in the midst, a boy on his shrill harp710
+Harmonious play’d, still as he struck the chord
+Carolling to it with a slender voice.
+They smote the ground together, and with song
+And sprightly reed came dancing on behind.[12]
+  There too a herd he fashion’d of tall beeves715
+Part gold, part tin. They, lowing, from the stalls
+Rush’d forth to pasture by a river-side
+Rapid, sonorous, fringed with whispering reeds.
+Four golden herdsmen drove the kine a-field
+By nine swift dogs attended. Dreadful sprang720
+Two lions forth, and of the foremost herd
+Seized fast a bull. Him bellowing they dragg’d,
+While dogs and peasants all flew to his aid.
+The lions tore the hide of the huge prey
+And lapp’d his entrails and his blood. Meantime725
+The herdsmen, troubling them in vain, their hounds
+Encouraged; but no tooth for lions’ flesh
+Found they, and therefore stood aside and bark’d.
+  There also, the illustrious smith divine
+Amidst a pleasant grove a pasture form’d730
+Spacious, and sprinkled o’er with silver sheep
+Numerous, and stalls and huts and shepherds’ tents.
+  To these the glorious artist added next,
+With various skill delineated exact,
+A labyrinth for the dance, such as of old735
+In Crete’s broad island Dædalus composed
+For bright-hair’d Ariadne.[13] There the youths
+And youth-alluring maidens, hand in hand,
+Danced jocund, every maiden neat-attired
+In finest linen, and the youths in vests740
+Well-woven, glossy as the glaze of oil.
+These all wore garlands, and bright falchions, those,
+Of burnish’d gold in silver trappings hung:—[14]
+They with well-tutor’d step, now nimbly ran
+The circle, swift, as when, before his wheel745
+Seated, the potter twirls it with both hands
+For trial of its speed,[15] now, crossing quick
+They pass’d at once into each other’s place.
+On either side spectators numerous stood
+Delighted, and two tumblers roll’d themselves750
+Between the dancers, singing as they roll’d.
+  Last, with the might of ocean’s boundless flood
+He fill’d the border of the wondrous shield.
+  When thus the massy shield magnificent
+He had accomplish’d, for the hero next755
+He forged, more ardent than the blaze of fire,
+A corselet; then, a ponderous helmet bright
+Well fitted to his brows, crested with gold,
+And with laborious art divine adorn’d.
+He also made him greaves of molten tin.760
+  The armor finish’d, bearing in his hand
+The whole, he set it down at Thetis’ feet.
+She, like a falcon from the snowy top
+Stoop’d of Olympus, bearing to the earth
+The dazzling wonder, fresh from Vulcan’s hand.765
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XIX.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE NINETEENTH BOOK.
+
+Achilles is reconciled to Agamemnon, and clothed in new armor forged by
+Vulcan, leads out the Myrmidons to battle.
+
+
+BOOK XIX.
+
+
+Now rose the morn in saffron vest attired
+From ocean, with new day for Gods and men,
+When Thetis at the fleet of Greece arrived,
+Bearing that gift divine. She found her son
+All tears, and close enfolding in his arms5
+Patroclus, while his Myrmidons around
+Wept also;[1] she amid them, graceful, stood,
+And seizing fast his hand, him thus bespake.
+  Although our loss be great, yet, oh my son!
+Leave we Patroclus lying on the bier10
+To which the Gods ordain’d him from the first.
+Receive from Vulcan’s hands these glorious arms,
+Such as no mortal shoulders ever bore.
+  So saying, she placed the armor on the ground
+Before him, and the whole bright treasure rang.15
+A tremor shook the Myrmidons; none dared
+Look on it, but all fled. Not so himself.
+In him fresh vengeance kindled at the view,
+And, while he gazed, a splendor as of fire
+Flash’d from his eyes. Delighted, in his hand20
+He held the glorious bounty of the God,
+And, wondering at those strokes of art divine,
+His eager speech thus to his mother turn’d.[2]
+  The God, my mother! hath bestow’d in truth
+Such armor on me as demanded skill25
+Like his, surpassing far all power of man.
+Now, therefore, I will arm. But anxious fears
+Trouble me, lest intrusive flies, meantime,
+Breed worms within the spear-inflicted wounds
+Of Menœtiades, and fill with taint30
+Of putrefaction his whole breathless form.[3]
+  But him the silver-footed Goddess fair
+Thus answer’d. Oh, my son! chase from thy mind
+All such concern. I will, myself, essay
+To drive the noisome swarms which on the slain35
+In battle feed voracious. Should he lie
+The year complete, his flesh shall yet be found
+Untainted, and, it may be, fragrant too.
+But thou the heroes of Achaia’s host
+Convening, in their ears thy wrath renounce40
+Against the King of men, then, instant, arm
+For battle, and put on thy glorious might.
+  So saying, the Goddess raised his courage high.
+Then, through the nostrils of the dead she pour’d
+Ambrosia, and the ruddy juice divine45
+Of nectar, antidotes against decay.
+  And now forth went Achilles by the side
+Of ocean, calling with a dreadful shout
+To council all the heroes of the host.[4]
+Then, even they who in the fleet before50
+Constant abode, helmsmen and those who held
+In stewardship the food and public stores,
+All flock’d to council, for that now at length
+After long abstinence from dread exploits
+Of war, Achilles had once more appear’d.55
+Two went together, halting on the spear,
+(For still they felt the anguish of their wounds)
+Noble Ulysses and brave Diomede,
+And took an early seat; whom follow’d last
+The King of men, by Coön in the field60
+Of furious battle wounded with a lance.
+The Grecians all assembled, in the midst
+Upstood the swift Achilles, and began.
+  Atrides! we had doubtless better sped
+Both thou and I, thus doing, when at first65
+With cruel rage we burn’d, a girl the cause.
+I would that Dian’s shaft had in the fleet
+Slain her that self-same day when I destroy’d
+Lyrnessus, and by conquest made her mine!
+Then had not many a Grecian, lifeless now,70
+Clench’d with his teeth the ground, victim, alas!
+Of my revenge; whence triumph hath accrued
+To Hector and his host, while ours have cause
+For long remembrance of our mutual strife.
+But evils past let pass, yielding perforce75
+To sad necessity. My wrath shall cease
+Now; I resign it; it hath burn’d too long.
+Thou therefore summon forth the host to fight,
+That I may learn meeting them in the field,
+If still the Trojans purpose at our fleet80
+To watch us this night also. But I judge
+That driven by my spear to rapid flight,
+They shall escape with weary limbs[5] at least.
+  He ended, and the Grecians brazen-greaved
+Rejoiced that Peleus’ mighty son had cast85
+His wrath aside. Then not into the midst
+Proceeding, but at his own seat, upstood
+King Agamemnon, and them thus bespake.
+
+  Friends! Grecian heroes! Ministers of Mars!
+Arise who may to speak, he claims your ear;90
+All interruption wrongs him, and distracts,
+Howe’er expert the speaker. Who can hear
+Amid the roar of tumult, or who speak?
+The clearest voice, best utterance, both are vain
+I shall address Achilles. Hear my speech95
+Ye Argives, and with understanding mark.
+I hear not now the voice of your reproach[6]
+First; ye have oft condemn’d me. Yet the blame
+Rests not with me; Jove, Destiny, and she
+Who roams the shades, Erynnis, caused the offence.100
+She fill’d my soul with fury on that day
+In council, when I seized Achilles’ prize.
+For what could I? All things obey the Gods.
+Ate, pernicious Power, daughter of Jove,
+By whom all suffer, challenges from all105
+Reverence and fear. Delicate are her feet
+Which scorn the ground, and over human heads
+She glides, injurious to the race of man,
+Of two who strive, at least entangling one.
+She injured, on a day, dread Jove himself110
+Most excellent of all in earth or heaven,
+When Juno, although female, him deceived,
+What time Alcmena should have brought to light
+In bulwark’d Thebes the force of Hercules.
+Then Jove, among the gods glorying, spake.115
+  Hear all! both Gods and Goddesses, attend!
+That I may make my purpose known. This day
+Birth-pang-dispensing Ilithya brings
+An hero forth to light, who, sprung from those
+That sprang from me, his empire shall extend120
+Over all kingdoms bordering on his own.
+  To whom, designing fraud, Juno replied.
+Thou wilt be found false, and this word of thine
+Shall want performance. But Olympian Jove!
+Swear now the inviolable oath, that he125
+Who shall, this day, fall from between the feet
+Of woman, drawing his descent from thee,
+Shall rule all kingdoms bordering on his own.
+  She said, and Jove, suspecting nought her wiles,
+The great oath swore, to his own grief and wrong.130
+At once from the Olympian summit flew
+Juno, and to Achaian Argos borne,
+There sought the noble wife[7] of Sthenelus,
+Offspring of Perseus. Pregnant with a son
+Six months, she now the seventh saw at hand,135
+But him the Goddess premature produced,
+And check’d Alcmena’s pangs already due.
+Then joyful to have so prevail’d, she bore
+Herself the tidings to Saturnian Jove.
+  Lord of the candent lightnings! Sire of all!140
+I bring thee tidings. The great prince, ordain’d
+To rule the Argive race, this day is born,
+Eurystheus, son of Sthenelus, the son
+Of Perseus; therefore he derives from thee,
+Nor shall the throne of Argos shame his birth.145
+  She spake; then anguish stung the heart of Jove
+Deeply, and seizing by her glossy locks
+The Goddess Ate, in his wrath he swore
+That never to the starry skies again
+And the Olympian heights he would permit150
+The universal mischief to return.
+Then, whirling her around, he cast her down
+To earth. She, mingling with all works of men,
+Caused many a pang to Jove, who saw his son
+Laborious tasks servile, and of his birth155
+Unworthy, at Eurystheus’ will enjoin’d.
+  So when the hero Hector at our ships
+Slew us, I then regretted my offence
+Which Ate first impell’d me to commit.
+But since, infatuated by the Gods160
+I err’d, behold me ready to appease
+With gifts of price immense whom I have wrong’d.
+Thou, then, arise to battle, and the host
+Rouse also. Not a promise yesternight
+Was made thee by Ulysses in thy tent165
+On my behalf, but shall be well perform’d.
+Or if it please thee, though impatient, wait
+Short season, and my train shall bring the gifts
+Even now; that thou may’st understand and know
+That my peace-offerings are indeed sincere.170
+  To whom Achilles, swiftest of the swift.
+Atrides! Agamemnon! passing all
+In glory! King of men! recompense just
+By gifts to make me, or to make me none,
+That rests with thee. But let us to the fight175
+Incontinent. It is no time to play
+The game of rhetoric, and to waste the hours
+In speeches. Much remains yet unperform’d.
+Achilles must go forth. He must be seen
+Once more in front of battle, wasting wide180
+With brazen spear, the crowded ranks of Troy.
+Mark him—and as he fights, fight also ye.
+  To whom Ulysses ever-wise replied.
+Nay—urge not, valiant as thou art thyself,
+Achaia’s sons up to the battlements185
+Of Ilium, by repast yet unrefresh’d,
+Godlike Achilles!—For when phalanx once
+Shall clash with phalanx, and the Gods with rage
+Both hosts inspire, the contest shall not then
+Prove short. Bid rather the Achaians take190
+Both food and wine, for they are strength and might.
+To stand all day till sunset to a foe
+Opposed in battle, fasting, were a task
+Might foil the best; for though his will be prompt
+To combat, yet the power must by degrees195
+Forsake him; thirst and hunger he must feel,
+And his limbs failing him at every step.
+But he who hath his vigor to the full
+Fed with due nourishment, although he fight
+All day, yet feels his courage unimpair’d,200
+Nor weariness perceives till all retire.
+Come then—dismiss the people with command
+That each prepare replenishment. Meantime
+Let Agamemnon, King of men, his gifts
+In presence here of the assembled Greeks205
+Produce, that all may view them, and that thou
+May’st feel thine own heart gladden’d at the sight.
+Let the King also, standing in the midst,
+Swear to thee, that he renders back the maid
+A virgin still, and strange to his embrace,210
+And let thy own composure prove, the while,
+That thou art satisfied. Last, let him spread
+A princely banquet for thee in his tent,
+That thou may’st want no part of just amends.
+Thou too, Atrides, shalt hereafter prove215
+More just to others; for himself, a King,
+Stoops not too low, soothing whom he hath wrong’d.
+  Him Agamemnon answer’d, King of men.
+Thou hast arranged wisely the whole concern,
+O Läertiades, and I have heard220
+Thy speech, both words and method with delight.
+Willing I am, yea more, I wish to swear
+As thou hast said, for by the Gods I can
+Most truly. Let Achilles, though of pause
+Impatient, suffer yet a short delay225
+With all assembled here, till from my tent
+The gifts arrive, and oaths of peace be sworn.
+To thee I give it in peculiar charge
+That choosing forth the most illustrious youths
+Of all Achaia, thou produce the gifts230
+from my own ship, all those which yesternight
+We promised, nor the women leave behind.
+And let Talthybius throughout all the camp
+Of the Achaians, instant, seek a boar
+For sacrifice to Jove and to the Sun.235
+  Then thus Achilles matchless in the race.
+Atrides! most illustrious! King of men!
+Expedience bids us to these cares attend
+Hereafter, when some pause, perchance, of fight
+Shall happen, and the martial rage which fires240
+My bosom now, shall somewhat less be felt.
+Our friends by Priameian Hector slain,
+Now strew the field mangled, for him hath Jove
+Exalted high, and given him great renown.
+But haste, now take refreshment; though, in truth245
+Might I direct, the host should by all means
+Unfed to battle, and at set of sun
+All sup together, this affront revenged.
+But as for me, no drop shall pass my lips
+Or morsel, whose companion lies with feet250
+Turn’d to the vestibule, pierced by the spear,
+And compass’d by my weeping train around.
+No want of food feel I. My wishes call
+For carnage, blood, and agonies and groans.
+  But him, excelling in all wisdom, thus255
+Ulysses answer’d. Oh Achilles! son
+Of Peleus! bravest far of all our host!
+Me, in no scanty measure, thou excell’st
+Wielding the spear, and thee in prudence, I
+Not less. For I am elder, and have learn’d260
+What thou hast yet to learn. Bid then thine heart
+Endure with patience to be taught by me.
+Men, satiate soon with battle, loathe the field
+On which the most abundant harvest falls,
+Reap’d by the sword; and when the hand of Jove265
+Dispenser of the great events of war,
+Turns once the scale, then, farewell every hope
+Of more than scanty gleanings. Shall the Greeks
+Abstain from sustenance for all who die?
+That were indeed severe, since day by day270
+No few expire, and respite could be none.
+The dead, die whoso may, should be inhumed.
+This, duty bids, but bids us also deem
+One day sufficient for our sighs and tears.
+Ourselves, all we who still survive the war,275
+Have need of sustenance, that we may bear
+The lengthen’d conflict with recruited might,
+Case in enduring brass.—Ye all have heard
+Your call to battle; let none lingering stand
+In expectation of a farther call,280
+Which if it sound, shall thunder prove to him
+Who lurks among the ships. No. Rush we all
+Together forth, for contest sharp prepared,
+And persevering with the host of Troy.
+  So saying, the sons of Nestor, glorious Chief,285
+He chose, with Meges Phyleus’ noble son,
+Thoas, Meriones, and Melanippus
+And Lycomedes. These, together, sought
+The tent of Agamemnon, King of men.
+They ask’d, and they received. Soon they produced290
+The seven promised tripods from the tent,
+Twice ten bright caldrons, twelve high-mettled steeds,
+Seven lovely captives skill’d alike in arts
+Domestic, of unblemish’d beauty rare,
+And last, Brisëis with the blooming cheeks.295
+Before them went Ulysses, bearing weigh’d
+Ten golden talents, whom the chosen Greeks
+Attended laden with the remnant gifts.
+Full in the midst they placed them. Then arose
+King Agamemnon, and Talthybius300
+The herald, clear in utterance as a God,
+Beside him stood, holding the victim boar.
+Atrides, drawing forth his dagger bright,
+Appendant ever to his sword’s huge sheath,
+Sever’d the bristly forelock of the boar,305
+A previous offering. Next, with lifted hands
+To Jove he pray’d, while, all around, the Greeks
+Sat listening silent to the Sovereign’s voice.
+He look’d to the wide heaven, and thus he pray’d.
+  First, Jove be witness! of all Powers above310
+Best and supreme; Earth next, and next the Sun!
+And last, who under Earth the guilt avenge
+Of oaths sworn falsely, let the Furies hear!
+For no respect of amorous desire
+Or other purpose, have I laid mine hand315
+On fair Brisëis, but within my tent
+Untouch’d, immaculate she hath remain’d.
+And if I falsely swear, then may the Gods
+The many woes with which they mark the crime
+Of men forsworn, pour also down on me!320
+  So saying, he pierced the victim in his throat
+And, whirling him around, Talthybius, next,
+Cast him into the ocean, fishes’ food.[8]
+Then, in the centre of Achaia’s sons
+Uprose Achilles, and thus spake again.325
+  Jove! Father! dire calamities, effects
+Of thy appointment, fall on human-kind.
+Never had Agamemnon in my breast
+Such anger kindled, never had he seized,
+Blinded by wrath, and torn my prize away,330
+But that the slaughter of our numerous friends
+Which thence ensued, thou hadst, thyself, ordained.
+Now go, ye Grecians, eat, and then to battle.
+  So saying, Achilles suddenly dissolved
+The hasty council, and all flew dispersed335
+To their own ships. Then took the Myrmidons
+Those splendid gifts which in the tent they lodged
+Of swift Achilles, and the damsels led
+Each to a seat, while others of his train
+Drove forth the steeds to pasture with his herd.340
+But when Brisëis, bright as Venus, saw
+Patroclus lying mangled by the spear,
+Enfolding him around, she shriek’d and tore
+Her bosom, her smooth neck and beauteous cheeks.
+Then thus, divinely fair, with tears she said.345
+  Ah, my Patroclus! dearest friend of all
+To hapless me, departing from this tent
+I left thee living, and now, generous Chief!
+Restored to it again, here find thee dead.
+How rapid in succession are my woes!350
+I saw, myself, the valiant prince to whom
+My parents had betroth’d me, slain before
+Our city walls; and my three brothers, sons
+Of my own mother, whom with long regret
+I mourn, fell also in that dreadful field.355
+But when the swift Achilles slew the prince
+Design’d my spouse, and the fair city sack’d
+Of noble Mynes, thou by every art
+Of tender friendship didst forbid my tears,
+Promising oft that thou would’st make me bride360
+Of Peleus’ godlike son, that thy own ship
+Should waft me hence to Phthia, and that thyself
+Would’st furnish forth among the Myrmidons
+Our nuptial feast. Therefore thy death I mourn
+Ceaseless, for thou wast ever kind to me.365
+  She spake, and all her fellow-captives heaved
+Responsive sighs, deploring each, in show,
+The dead Patroclus, but, in truth, herself.[9]
+Then the Achaian Chiefs gather’d around
+Achilles, wooing him to eat, but he370
+Groan’d and still resolute, their suit refused—
+  If I have here a friend on whom by prayers
+I may prevail, I pray that ye desist,
+Nor longer press me, mourner as I am,
+To eat or drink, for till the sun go down375
+I am inflexible, and _will_ abstain.
+  So saying, the other princes he dismiss’d
+Impatient, but the sons of Atreus both,
+Ulysses, Nestor and Idomeneus,
+With Phœnix, hoary warrior, in his tent380
+Abiding still, with cheerful converse kind
+Essay’d to soothe him, whose afflicted soul
+All soothing scorn’d till he should once again
+Rush on the ravening edge of bloody war.
+Then, mindful of his friend, groaning he said385
+  Time was, unhappiest, dearest of my friends!
+When even thou, with diligent dispatch,
+Thyself, hast spread a table in my tent,
+The hour of battle drawing nigh between
+The Greeks and warlike Trojans. But there lies390
+Thy body now, gored by the ruthless steel,
+And for thy sake I neither eat nor drink,
+Though dearth be none, conscious that other wo
+Surpassing this I can have none to fear.
+No, not if tidings of my father’s death395
+Should reach me, who, this moment, weeps, perhaps,
+In Phthia tears of tenderest regret
+For such a son; while I, remote from home
+Fight for detested Helen under Troy.
+Nor even were _he_ dead, whom, if he live,400
+I rear in Scyros, my own darling son,
+My Neoptolemus of form divine.[10]
+For still this hope I cherish’d in my breast
+Till now, that, of us two, myself alone
+Should fall at Ilium, and that thou, restored405
+To Phthia, should’st have wafted o’er the waves
+My son from Scyros to his native home,
+That thou might’st show him all his heritage,
+My train of menials, and my fair abode.
+For either dead already I account410
+Peleus, or doubt not that his residue
+Of miserable life shall soon be spent,
+Through stress of age and expectation sad
+That tidings of my death shall, next, arrive.
+  So spake Achilles weeping, around whom415
+The Chiefs all sigh’d, each with remembrance pain’d
+Of some loved object left at home. Meantime
+Jove, with compassion moved, their sorrow saw,
+And in wing’d accents thus to Pallas spake.
+
+  Daughter! thou hast abandon’d, as it seems,420
+Yon virtuous Chief for ever; shall no care
+Thy mind engage of brave Achilles more?
+Before his gallant fleet mourning he sits
+His friend, disconsolate; the other Greeks
+Sat and are satisfied; he only fasts.425
+Go then—instil nectar into his breast,
+And sweets ambrosial, that he hunger not.
+  So saying, he urged Minerva prompt before.
+In form a shrill-voiced Harpy of long wing
+Through ether down she darted, while the Greeks430
+In all their camp for instant battle arm’d.
+Ambrosial sweets and nectar she instill’d
+Into his breast, lest he should suffer loss
+Of strength through abstinence, then soar’d again
+To her great Sire’s unperishing abode.435
+And now the Grecians from their gallant fleet
+All pour’d themselves abroad. As when thick snow
+From Jove descends, driven by impetuous gusts
+Of the cloud-scattering North, so frequent shone
+Issuing from the fleet the dazzling casques,440
+Boss’d bucklers, hauberks strong, and ashen spears.
+Upwent the flash to heaven; wide all around
+The champain laugh’d with beamy brass illumed,
+And tramplings of the warriors on all sides
+Resounded, amidst whom Achilles arm’d.445
+He gnash’d his teeth, fire glimmer’d in his eyes,
+Anguish intolerable wrung his heart
+And fury against Troy, while he put on
+His glorious arms, the labor of a God.
+First, to his legs his polish’d greaves he clasp’d450
+Studded with silver, then his corselet bright
+Braced to his bosom, his huge sword of brass
+Athwart his shoulder slung, and his broad shield
+Uplifted last, luminous as the moon.
+Such as to mariners a fire appears,455
+Kindled by shepherds on the distant top
+Of some lone hill; they, driven by stormy winds,
+Reluctant roam far off the fishy deep,
+Such from Achilles’ burning shield divine
+A lustre struck the skies; his ponderous helm460
+He lifted to his brows; starlike it shone,
+And shook its curling crest of bushy gold,
+By Vulcan taught to wave profuse around.
+So clad, godlike Achilles trial made
+If his arms fitted him, and gave free scope465
+To his proportion’d limbs; buoyant they proved
+As wings, and high upbore his airy tread.
+He drew his father’s spear forth from his case,
+Heavy and huge and long. That spear, of all
+Achaia’s sons, none else had power to wield;470
+Achilles only could the Pelian spear
+Brandish, by Chiron for his father hewn
+From Pelion’s top for slaughter of the brave.
+His coursers, then, Automedon prepared
+And Alcimus, adjusting diligent475
+The fair caparisons; they thrust the bits
+Into their mouths, and to the chariot seat
+Extended and made fast the reins behind.
+The splendid scourge commodious to the grasp
+Seizing, at once Automedon upsprang480
+Into his place; behind him, arm’d complete
+Achilles mounted, as the orient sun
+All dazzling, and with awful tone his speech
+Directed to the coursers of his Sire.
+  Xanthus, and Balius of Podarges’ blood485
+Illustrious! see ye that, the battle done,
+Ye bring whom now ye bear back to the host
+Of the Achaians in far other sort,
+Nor leave him, as ye left Patroclus, dead.[11]
+Him then his steed unconquer’d in the race,490
+Xanthus answer’d from beneath his yoke,
+But, hanging low his head, and with his mane
+Dishevell’d all, and streaming to the ground.
+Him Juno vocal made, Goddess white-arm’d.
+  And doubtless so we will. This day at least495
+We bear thee safe from battle, stormy Chief!
+But thee the hour of thy destruction swift
+Approaches, hasten’d by no fault of ours,
+But by the force of fate and power divine.
+For not through sloth or tardiness on us500
+Aught chargeable, have Ilium’s sons thine arms
+Stript from Patroclus’ shoulders, but a God
+Matchless in battle, offspring of bright-hair’d
+Latona, him contending in the van
+Slew, for the glory of the Chief of Troy.505
+We, Zephyrus himself, though by report
+Swiftest of all the winds of heaven, in speed
+Could equal, but the Fates thee also doom
+By human hands to fall, and hands divine.
+  The interposing Furies at that word510
+Suppress’d his utterance,[12] and indignant, thus,
+Achilles, swiftest of the swift, replied.
+  Why, Xanthus, propheciest thou my death?
+It ill beseems thee. I already know
+That from my parents far remote my doom515
+Appoints me here to die; yet not the more
+Cease I from feats if arms, till Ilium’s host
+Shall have received, at length, their fill of war.
+  He said, and with a shout drove forth to battle.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XX.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWENTIETH BOOK.
+
+By permission of Jupiter the Gods descend into the battle, and range
+themselves on either side respectively. Neptune rescues Æneas from
+death by the hand of Achilles, from whom Apollo, soon after, rescues
+Hector. Achilles slays many Trojans.
+
+
+BOOK XX.
+
+
+The Grecians, thus, before their lofty ships
+Stood arm’d around Achilles, glorious Chief
+Insatiable with war, and opposite
+The Trojans on the rising-ground appear’d.[1]
+Meantime, Jove order’d Themis, from the head5
+Of the deep-fork’d Olympian to convene
+The Gods in council. She to every part
+Proceeding, bade them to the courts of Jove.[2]
+Nor of the Floods was any absent thence
+Oceanus except, or of the Nymphs10
+Who haunt the pleasant groves, or dwell beside
+Stream-feeding fountains, or in meadows green.
+Within the courts of cloud-assembler Jove
+Arrived, on pillar’d thrones radiant they sat,
+With ingenuity divine contrived15
+By Vulcan for the mighty Sire of all.
+Thus they within the Thunderer’s palace sat
+Assembled; nor was Neptune slow to hear
+The voice of Themis, but (the billows left)
+Came also; in the midst his seat he took,20
+And ask’d, incontinent, the mind of Jove.[3]
+  King of the lightnings! wherefore hast thou call’d
+The Gods to council? Hast thou aught at heart
+Important to the hosts of Greece and Troy?
+For on the battle’s fiery edge they stand.25
+  To whom replied Jove, Sovereign of the storms,
+Thou know’st my council, Shaker of the shores!
+And wherefore ye are call’d. Although ordain’d
+So soon to die, they interest me still.
+Myself, here seated on Olympus’ top,30
+With contemplation will my mind indulge
+Of yon great spectacle; but ye, the rest,
+Descend into the field, Trojan or Greek
+Each to assist, as each shall most incline.
+For should Achilles in the field no foe35
+Find save the Trojans, quickly should they fly
+Before the rapid force of Peleus’ son.
+They trembled ever at his look, and since
+Such fury for his friend hath fired his heart,
+I fear lest he anticipate the will40
+Of Fate, and Ilium perish premature.
+  So spake the son of Saturn kindling war
+Inevitable, and the Gods to fight
+’Gan move with minds discordant. Juno sought
+And Pallas, with the earth-encircling Power45
+Neptune, the Grecian fleet, with whom were join’d
+Mercury, teacher of all useful arts,
+And Vulcan, rolling on all sides his eyes
+Tremendous, but on disproportion’d legs,
+Not without labor hard, halting uncouth.50
+Mars, warrior-God, on Ilium’s part appear’d
+With Phœbus never-shorn, Dian shaft-arm’d,
+Xanthus, Latona, and the Queen of smiles,
+Venus. So long as the immortal Gods
+Mixed not with either host, Achaia’s sons55
+Exulted, seeing, after tedious pause,
+Achilles in the field, and terror shook
+The knees of every Trojan, at the sight
+Of swift Achilles like another Mars
+Panting for blood, and bright in arms again.60
+But when the Olympian Powers had enter’d once
+The multitude, then Discord, at whose voice
+The million maddens, vehement arose;
+Then, Pallas at the trench without the wall
+By turns stood shouting, and by turns a shout65
+Sent terrible along the sounding shore,
+While, gloomy as a tempest, opposite,
+Mars from the lofty citadel of Troy
+Now yell’d aloud, now running o’er the hill
+Callicolone, on the Simois’ side.70
+  Thus the Immortals, ever-blest, impell’d
+Both hosts to battle, and dire inroad caused
+Of strife among them. Sudden from on high
+The Sire of Gods and men thunder’d; meantime,
+Neptune the earth and the high mountains shook;75
+Through all her base and to her topmost peak
+Ida spring-fed the agitation felt
+Reeling, all Ilium and the fleet of Greece.
+Upstarted from his throne, appall’d, the King
+Of Erebus, and with a cry his fears80
+Through hell proclaim’d, lest Neptune, o’er his head
+Shattering the vaulted earth, should wide disclose
+To mortal and immortal eyes his realm
+Terrible, squalid, to the Gods themselves
+A dreaded spectacle; with such a sound85
+The Powers eternal into battle rush’d.[4]
+Opposed to Neptune, King of the vast Deep,
+Apollo stood with his wing’d arrows arm’d;
+Pallas to Mars; Diana shaft-expert,
+Sister of Phœbus, in her golden bow90
+Rejoicing, with whose shouts the forests ring
+To Juno; Mercury, for useful arts
+Famed, to Latona; and to Vulcan’s force
+The eddied River broad by mortal men
+Scamander call’d, but Xanthus by the Gods.95
+  So Gods encounter’d Gods. But most desire
+Achilles felt, breaking the ranks, to rush
+On Priameian Hector, with whose blood
+Chiefly his fury prompted him to sate
+The indefatigable God of war.100
+But, the encourager of Ilium’s host
+Apollo, urged Æneas to assail
+The son of Peleus, with heroic might
+Inspiring his bold heart. He feign’d the voice
+Of Priam’s son Lycaon, and his form105
+Assuming, thus the Trojan Chief address’d.
+  Æneas! Trojan leader! where are now
+Thy vaunts, which, banqueting erewhile among
+Our princes, o’er thy brimming cups thou mad’st,
+That thou would’st fight, thyself, with Peleus’ son?110
+  To whom Æneas answer thus returned.
+Offspring of Priam! why enjoin’st thou me
+Not so inclined, that arduous task, to cope
+With the unmatch’d Achilles? I have proved
+His force already, when he chased me down115
+From Ida with his spear, what time he made
+Seizure of all our cattle, and destroy’d
+Pedasus and Lyrnessus; but I ’scaped
+Unslain, by Jove himself empower’d to fly,
+Else had I fallen by Achilles’ hand,120
+And by the hand of Pallas, who his steps
+Conducted, and exhorted him to slay
+Us and the Leleges.[5] Vain, therefore, proves
+All mortal force to Peleus’ son opposed;
+For one, at least, of the Immortals stands125
+Ever beside him, guardian of his life,
+And, of himself, he hath an arm that sends
+His rapid spear unerring to the mark.
+Yet, would the Gods more equal sway the scales
+Of battle, not with ease should he subdue130
+Me, though he boast a panoply of brass.
+  Him, then, Apollo answer’d, son of Jove.
+Hero! prefer to the immortal Gods
+Thy Prayer, for thee men rumor Venus’ son
+Daughter of Jove; and Peleus’ son his birth135
+Drew from a Goddess of inferior note.
+Thy mother is from Jove; the offspring, his,
+Less noble of the hoary Ocean old.
+Go, therefore, and thy conquering spear uplift
+Against him, nor let aught his sounding words140
+Appal thee, or his threats turn thee away.
+  So saying, with martial force the Chief he fill’d,
+Who through the foremost combatants advanced
+Radiant in arms. Nor pass’d Anchises’ son
+Unseen of Juno, through the crowded ranks145
+Seeking Achilles, but the Powers of heaven
+Convened by her command, she thus address’d.
+  Neptune, and thou, Minerva! with mature
+Deliberation, ponder the event.
+Yon Chief, Æneas, dazzling bright in arms;150
+Goes to withstand Achilles, and he goes
+Sent by Apollo; in despite of whom
+Be it our task to give him quick repulse,
+Or, of ourselves, let some propitious Power
+Strengthen Achilles with a mind exempt155
+From terror, and with force invincible.
+So shall he know that of the Gods above
+The mightiest are his friends, with whom compared
+The favorers of Ilium in time past,
+Who stood her guardians in the bloody strife,160
+Are empty boasters all, and nothing worth.
+For therefore came we down, that we may share
+This fight, and that Achilles suffer nought
+Fatal to-day, though suffer all he must
+Hereafter, with his thread of life entwined165
+By Destiny, the day when he was born.
+But should Achilles unapprized remain
+Of such advantage by a voice divine,
+When he shall meet some Deity in the field,
+Fear then will seize him, for celestial forms170
+Unveil’d are terrible to mortal eyes.
+  To whom replied the Shaker of the shores.
+Juno! thy hot impatience needs control;
+It ill befits thee. No desire I feel
+To force into contention with ourselves175
+Gods, our inferiors. No. Let us, retired
+To yonder hill, distant from all resort,
+There sit, while these the battle wage alone.
+But if Apollo, or if Mars the fight
+Entering, begin, themselves, to interfere180
+Against Achilles, then will we at once
+To battle also; and, I much misdeem,
+Or glad they shall be soon to mix again
+Among the Gods on the Olympian heights,
+By strong coercion of our arms subdued.185
+  So saying, the God of Ocean azure-hair’d
+Moved foremost to the lofty mound earth-built
+Of noble Hercules, by Pallas raised
+And by the Trojans for his safe escape,
+What time the monster of the deep pursued190
+The hero from the sea-bank o’er the plain.
+There Neptune sat, and his confederate Gods,
+Their shoulders with impenetrable clouds
+O’ermantled, while the city-spoiler Mars
+Sat with Apollo opposite on the hill195
+Callicolone, with their aids divine.
+So, Gods to Gods in opposite aspect
+Sat ruminating, and alike the work
+All fearing to begin of arduous war,
+While from his seat sublime Jove urged them on.200
+The champain all was fill’d, and with the blaze
+Illumined wide of men and steeds brass-arm’d,
+And the incumber’d earth jarr’d under foot
+Of the encountering hosts. Then, two, the rest
+Surpassing far, into the midst advanced205
+Impatient for the fight, Anchises’ son
+Æneas and Achilles, glorious Chief!
+Æneas first, under his ponderous casque
+Nodding and menacing, advanced; before
+His breast he held the well-conducted orb210
+Of his broad shield, and shook his brazen spear.
+On the other side, Achilles to the fight
+Flew like a ravening lion, on whose death
+Resolved, the peasants from all quarters meet;
+He, viewing with disdain the foremost, stalks215
+Right on, but smitten by some dauntless youth
+Writhes himself, and discloses his huge fangs
+Hung with white foam; then, growling for revenge,
+Lashes himself to battle with his tail,
+Till with a burning eye and a bold heart220
+He springs to slaughter, or himself is slain;
+So, by his valor and his noble mind
+Impell’d, renown’d Achilles moved toward
+Æneas, and, small interval between,
+Thus spake the hero matchless in the race.225
+  Why stand’st thou here, Æneas! thy own band
+Left at such distance? Is it that thine heart
+Glows with ambition to contend with me
+In hope of Priam’s honors, and to fill
+His throne hereafter in Troy steed-renown’d?230
+But shouldst thou slay me, not for that exploit
+Would Priam such large recompense bestow,
+For he hath sons, and hath, beside, a mind
+And disposition not so lightly changed.
+Or have the Trojans of their richest soil235
+For vineyard apt or plow assign’d thee part
+If thou shalt slay me? Difficult, I hope,
+At least, thou shalt experience that emprize.
+For, as I think, I have already chased
+Thee with my spear. Forgettest thou the day240
+When, finding thee alone, I drove thee down
+Headlong from Ida, and, thy cattle left
+Afar, thou didst not dare in all thy flight
+Turn once, till at Lyrnessus safe arrived,
+Which city by Jove’s aid and by the aid245
+Of Pallas I destroy’d, and captive led
+Their women? Thee, indeed, the Gods preserved
+But they shall not preserve thee, as thou dream’st
+Now also. Back into thy host again;
+Hence, I command thee, nor oppose in fight250
+My force, lest evil find thee. To be taught
+By suffering only is the part of fools.
+  To whom Æneas answer thus return’d.
+Pelides! hope not, as I were a boy,
+With words to scare me. I have also taunts255
+At my command, and could be sharp as thou.
+By such reports as from the lips of men
+We oft have heard, each other’s birth we know
+And parents; but my parents to behold
+Was ne’er thy lot, nor have I thine beheld.260
+Thee men proclaim from noble Peleus sprung
+And Thetis, bright hair’d Goddess of the Deep;
+I boast myself of lovely Venus born
+To brave Anchises; and his son this day
+In battle slain thy sire shall mourn, or mine;265
+For I expect not that we shall depart
+Like children, satisfied with words alone.
+But if it please thee more at large to learn
+My lineage (thousands can attest it true)
+Know this. Jove, Sovereign of the storms, begat270
+Dardanus, and ere yet the sacred walls
+Of Ilium rose, the glory of this plain,
+He built Dardania; for at Ida’s foot
+Dwelt our progenitors in ancient days.
+Dardanus was the father of a son,275
+King Ericthonius, wealthiest of mankind.
+Three thousand mares of his the marish grazed,
+Each suckling with delight her tender foal.
+Boreas, enamor’d of no few of these,
+The pasture sought, and cover’d them in form280
+Of a steed azure-maned. They, pregnant thence,
+Twelve foals produced, and all so light of foot,
+That when they wanton’d in the fruitful field
+They swept, and snapp’d it not, the golden ear;
+And when they wanton’d on the boundless deep,285
+They skimm’d the green wave’s frothy ridge, secure.
+From Ericthonius sprang Tros, King of Troy,
+And Tros was father of three famous sons,
+Ilus, Assaracus, and Ganymede
+Loveliest of human kind, whom for his charms290
+The Gods caught up to heaven, there to abide
+With the immortals, cup-bearer of Jove.
+Ilus begat Laomedon, and he
+Five sons, Tithonus, Priam, Clytius,
+Lampus, and Hicetaon, branch of Mars.295
+Assaracus a son begat, by name
+Capys, and Capys in due time his son
+Warlike Anchises, and Anchises me.
+But Priam is the noble Hector’s sire.[6]
+Such is my lineage, and such blood I boast;300
+But valor is from Jove; he, as he wills,
+Increases or reduces it in man,
+For he is lord of all. Therefore enough—
+Too long like children we have stood, the time
+Consuming here, while battle roars around.305
+Reproach is cheap. Easily might we cast
+Gibes at each other, till a ship that asks
+A hundred oars should sink beneath the load.
+The tongue of man is voluble, hath words
+For every theme, nor wants wide field and long,310
+And as he speaks so shall he hear again.
+But we—why should we wrangle, and with taunts
+Assail each other, as the practice is
+Of women, who with heart-devouring strife
+On fire, start forth into the public way315
+To mock each other, uttering, as may chance,
+Much truth, much falsehood, as their anger bids?
+The ardor of my courage will not slack
+For all thy speeches; we must combat first;
+Now, therefore, without more delay, begin,320
+That we may taste each other’s force in arms.[7]
+  So spake Æneas, and his brazen lance
+Hurl’d with full force against the dreadful shield.
+Loud roar’d its ample concave at the blow.
+Not unalarm’d, Pelides his broad disk325
+Thrust farther from him, deeming that the force
+Of such an arm should pierce his guard with ease.
+Vain fear! he recollected not that arms
+Glorious as his, gifts of the immortal Gods,
+Yield not so quickly to the force of man.330
+The stormy spear by brave Æneas sent,
+No passage found; the golden plate divine
+Repress’d its vehemence; two folds it pierced,
+But three were still behind, for with five folds
+Vulcan had fortified it; two were brass;335
+The two interior, tin; the midmost, gold;
+And at the golden one the weapon stood.[8]
+Achilles next, hurl’d his long shadow’d spear,
+And struck Æneas on the utmost verge
+Of his broad shield, where thinnest lay the brass,340
+And thinnest the ox-hide. The Pelian ash
+Started right through the buckler, and it rang.
+Æneas crouch’d terrified, and his shield
+Thrust farther from him; but the rapid beam
+Bursting both borders of the ample disk,345
+Glanced o’er his back, and plunged into the soil.
+He ’scaped it, and he stood; but, as he stood,
+With horror infinite the weapon saw
+Planted so near him. Then, Achilles drew
+His falchion keen, and with a deafening shout350
+Sprang on him; but Æneas seized a stone
+Heavy and huge, a weight to overcharge
+Two men (such men as are accounted strong
+Now) but he wielded it with ease, alone.
+Then had Æneas, as Achilles came355
+Impetuous on, smitten, although in vain,
+His helmet or his shield, and Peleus’ son
+Had with his falchion him stretch’d at his feet,
+But that the God of Ocean quick perceived
+His peril, and the Immortals thus bespake.360
+  I pity brave Æneas, who shall soon,
+Slain by Achilles, see the realms below,
+By smooth suggestions of Apollo lured
+To danger, such as he can ne’er avert.
+But wherefore should the Chief, guiltless himself,365
+Die for the fault of others? at no time
+His gifts have fail’d, grateful to all in heaven.
+Come, therefore, and let us from death ourselves
+Rescue him, lest if by Achilles’ arm
+This hero perish, Jove himself be wroth;370
+For he is destined to survive, lest all
+The house of Dardanus (whom Jove beyond
+All others loved, his sons of woman born)
+Fail with Æneas, and be found no more.
+Saturnian Jove hath hated now long time375
+The family of Priam, and henceforth
+Æneas and his son, and his sons’ sons,
+Shall sway the sceptre o’er the race of Troy.
+  To whom, majestic thus the spouse of Jove.
+Neptune! deliberate thyself, and choose380
+Whether to save Æneas, or to leave
+The hero victim of Achilles’ ire.
+For Pallas and myself ofttimes have sworn
+In full assembly of the Gods, to aid
+Troy never, never to avert the day385
+Of her distress, not even when the flames
+Kindled by the heroic sons of Greece,
+Shall climb with fury to her topmost towers.
+  She spake; then Neptune, instant, through the throng
+Of battle flying, and the clash of spears,390
+Came where Achilles and Æneas fought.
+At once with shadows dim he blurr’d the sight
+Of Peleus’ son, and from the shield, himself,
+Of brave Æneas the bright-pointed ash
+Retracting, placed it at Achilles’ feet.395
+Then, lifting high Æneas from the ground,
+He heaved him far remote; o’er many a rank
+Of heroes and of bounding steeds he flew,
+Launch’d into air from the expanded palm
+Of Neptune, and alighted in the rear400
+Of all the battle where the Caucons stood.
+Neptune approach’d him there, and at his side
+Standing, in accents wing’d, him thus bespake.
+  What God, Æneas! tempted thee to cope
+Thus inconsiderately with the son405
+Of Peleus, both more excellent in fight
+Than thou, and more the favorite of the skies?
+From him retire hereafter, or expect
+A premature descent into the shades.
+But when Achilles shall have once fulfill’d410
+His destiny, in battle slain, then fight
+Fearless, for thou canst fall by none beside.
+  So saying, he left the well-admonish’d Chief,
+And from Achilles’ eyes scatter’d the gloom
+Shed o’er them by himself. The hero saw415
+Clearly, and with his noble heart incensed
+By disappointment, thus conferring, said.
+  Gods! I behold a prodigy. My spear
+Lies at my foot, and he at whom I cast
+The weapon with such deadly force, is gone!420
+Æneas therefore, as it seems, himself
+Interests the immortal Gods, although
+I deem’d his boast of their protection vain.
+I reck not. Let him go. So gladly ’scaped
+From slaughter now, he shall not soon again425
+Feel an ambition to contend with me.
+Now will I rouse the Danaï, and prove
+The force in fight of many a Trojan more.
+  He said, and sprang to battle with loud voice,
+Calling the Grecians after him.—Ye sons430
+Of the Achaians! stand not now aloof,
+My noble friends! but foot to foot let each
+Fall on courageous, and desire the fight.
+The task were difficult for me alone,
+Brave as I boast myself, to chase a foe435
+So numerous, and to combat with them all.
+Not Mars himself, immortal though he be,
+Nor Pallas, could with all the ranks contend
+Of this vast multitude, and drive the whole.
+With hands, with feet, with spirit and with might,440
+All that I can I will; right through I go,
+And not a Trojan who shall chance within
+Spear’s reach of me, shall, as I judge, rejoice.
+  Thus he the Greeks exhorted. Opposite,
+Meantime, illustrious Hector to his host445
+Vociferated, his design to oppose
+Achilles publishing in every ear.
+  Fear not, ye valiant men of Troy! fear not
+The son of Peleus. In a war of words
+I could, myself, cope even with the Gods;450
+But not with spears; there they excel us all.
+Nor shall Achilles full performance give
+To all his vaunts, but, if he some fulfil,
+Shall others leave mutilate in the midst.
+I will encounter him, though his hands be fire,455
+Though fire his hands, and his heart hammer’d steel.
+  So spake he them exhorting. At his word
+Uprose the Trojan spears, thick intermixt
+The battle join’d, and clamor loud began.
+Then thus, approaching Hector, Phœbus spake.460
+  Henceforth, advance not Hector! in the front
+Seeking Achilles, but retired within
+The stormy multitude his coming wait,
+Lest his spear reach thee, or his glittering sword.
+  He said, and Hector far into his host465
+Withdrew, admonish’d by the voice divine.
+Then, shouting terrible, and clothed with might,
+Achilles sprang to battle. First, he slew
+The valiant Chief Iphition, whom a band
+Numerous obey’d. Otrynteus was his sire.470
+Him to Otrynteus, city-waster Chief,
+A Naiad under snowy Tmolus bore
+In fruitful Hyda.[9] Right into his front
+As he advanced, Achilles drove his spear,
+And rived his skull; with thundering sound he fell,475
+And thus the conqueror gloried in his fall.
+  Ah Otryntides! thou art slain. Here lies
+The terrible in arms, who born beside
+The broad Gygæan lake, where Hyllus flows
+And Hermus, call’d the fertile soil his own.480
+  Thus gloried he. Meantime the shades of death
+Cover’d Iphition, and Achaian wheels
+And horses ground his body in the van.
+Demoleon next, Antenor’s son, a brave
+Defender of the walls of Troy, he slew.485
+Into his temples through his brazen casque
+He thrust the Pelian ash, nor could the brass
+Such force resist, but the huge weapon drove
+The shatter’d bone into his inmost brain,
+And his fierce onset at a stroke repress’d.490
+Hippodamas his weapon next received
+Within his spine, while with a leap he left
+His steeds and fled. He, panting forth his life,
+Moan’d like a bull, by consecrated youths
+Dragg’d round the Heliconian King,[10] who views495
+That victim with delight. So, with loud moans
+The noble warrior sigh’d his soul away.
+Then, spear in hand, against the godlike son
+Of Priam, Polydorus, he advanced.
+Not yet his father had to him indulged500
+A warrior’s place, for that of all his sons
+He was the youngest-born, his hoary sire’s
+Chief darling, and in speed surpass’d them all.
+Then also, in the vanity of youth,
+For show of nimbleness, he started oft505
+Into the vanward, till at last he fell.
+Him gliding swiftly by, swifter than he
+Achilles with a javelin reach’d; he struck
+His belt behind him, where the golden clasps
+Met, and the double hauberk interposed.510
+The point transpierced his bowels, and sprang through
+His navel; screaming, on his knees he fell,
+Death-shadows dimm’d his eyes, and with both hands,
+Stooping, he press’d his gather’d bowels back.
+But noble Hector, soon as he beheld515
+His brother Polydorus to the earth
+Inclined, and with his bowels in his hands,
+Sightless well-nigh with anguish could endure
+No longer to remain aloof; flame-like
+He burst abroad,[11] and shaking his sharp spear,520
+Advanced to meet Achilles, whose approach
+Seeing, Achilles bounded with delight,
+And thus, exulting, to himself he said.
+  Ah! he approaches, who hath stung my soul
+Deepest, the slayer of whom most I loved!525
+Behold, we meet! Caution is at an end,
+And timid skulking in the walks of war.
+  He ceased, and with a brow knit into frowns,
+Call’d to illustrious Hector. Haste, approach,
+That I may quick dispatch thee to the shades.530
+  Whom answer’d warlike Hector, nought appall’d.
+Pelides! hope not, as I were a boy,
+With words to scare me. I have also taunts
+At my command, and can be sharp as thou.
+I know thee valiant, and myself I know535
+Inferior far; yet, whether thou shalt slay
+Me, or, inferior as I am, be slain
+By me, is at the pleasure of the Gods,
+For I wield also not a pointless beam.
+  He said, and, brandishing it, hurl’d his spear,540
+Which Pallas, breathing softly, wafted back
+From the renown’d Achilles, and it fell
+Successless at illustrious Hector’s feet.
+Then, all on fire to slay him, with a shout
+That rent the air Achilles rapid flew545
+Toward him; but him wrapt in clouds opaque
+Apollo caught with ease divine away.
+Thrice, swift Achilles sprang to the assault
+Impetuous, thrice the pitchy cloud he smote,
+And at his fourth assault, godlike in act,550
+And terrible in utterance, thus exclaim’d.
+  Dog! thou art safe, and hast escaped again;
+But narrowly, and by the aid once more
+Of Phœbus, without previous suit to whom
+Thou venturest never where the javelin sings.555
+But when we next encounter, then expect,
+If one of all in heaven aid also me,
+To close thy proud career. Meantime I seek
+Some other, and assail e’en whom I may.
+  So saying, he pierced the neck of Dryops through,560
+And at his feet he fell. Him there he left,
+And turning on a valiant warrior huge,
+Philetor’s son, Demuchus, in the knee
+Pierced, and detain’d him by the planted spear,
+Till with his sword he smote him, and he died.565
+Laogonus and Dardanus he next
+Assaulted, sons of Bias; to the ground
+Dismounting both, one with his spear he slew,
+The other with his falchion at a blow.
+Tros too, Alastor’s son—he suppliant clasp’d570
+Achilles’ knees, and for his pity sued,
+Pleading equality of years, in hope
+That he would spare, and send him thence alive.
+Ah dreamer! ignorant how much in vain
+That suit he urged; for not of milky mind,575
+Or placable in temper was the Chief
+To whom he sued, but fiery. With both hands
+His knees he clasp’d importunate, and he
+Fast by the liver gash’d him with his sword.
+His liver falling forth, with sable blood580
+His bosom fill’d, and darkness veil’d his eyes.
+Then, drawing close to Mulius, in his ear
+He set the pointed brass, and at a thrust
+Sent it, next moment, through his ear beyond.
+Then, through the forehead of Agenor’s son585
+Echechlus, his huge-hafted blade he drove,
+And death and fate forever veil’d his eyes.
+Next, where the tendons of the elbow meet,
+Striking Deucalion, through his wrist he urged
+The brazen point; he all defenceless stood,590
+Expecting death; down came Achilles’ blade
+Full on his neck; away went head and casque
+Together; from his spine the marrow sprang,
+And at his length outstretch’d he press’d the plain.
+From him to Rhigmus, Pireus’ noble son,595
+He flew, a warrior from the fields of Thrace.
+Him through the loins he pierced, and with the beam
+Fixt in his bowels, to the earth he fell;
+Then piercing, as he turn’d to flight, the spine
+Of Areithöus his charioteer,600
+He thrust him from his seat; wild with dismay
+Back flew the fiery coursers at his fall.
+As a devouring fire within the glens
+Of some dry mountain ravages the trees,
+While, blown around, the flames roll to all sides,605
+So, on all sides, terrible as a God,
+Achilles drove the death-devoted host
+Of Ilium, and the champain ran with blood.
+As when the peasant his yoked steers employs
+To tread his barley, the broad-fronted pair610
+With ponderous hoofs trample it out with ease,
+So, by magnanimous Achilles driven,
+His coursers solid-hoof’d stamp’d as they ran
+The shields, at once, and bodies of the slain;
+Blood spatter’d all his axle, and with blood615
+From the horse-hoofs and from the fellied wheels
+His chariot redden’d, while himself, athirst
+For glory, his unconquerable hands
+Defiled with mingled carnage, sweat, and dust.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XXI.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWENTY-FIRST BOOK.
+
+Achilles having separated the Trojans, and driven one part of them to
+the city and the other into the Scamander, takes twelve young men
+alive, his intended victims to the manes of Patroclus. The river
+overflowing his banks with purpose to overwhelm him, is opposed by
+Vulcan, and gladly relinquishes the attempt. The battle of the gods
+ensues. Apollo, in the form of Agenor, decoys Achilles from the town,
+which in the mean time the Trojans enter and shut the gates against
+him.
+
+
+BOOK XXI.
+
+
+[1]But when they came, at length, where Xanthus winds
+His stream vortiginous from Jove derived,
+There, separating Ilium’s host, he drove
+Part o’er the plain to Troy in the same road
+By which the Grecians had so lately fled5
+The fury of illustrious Hector’s arm.
+That way they fled pouring themselves along
+Flood-like, and Juno, to retard them, threw
+Darkness as night before them. Other part,
+Push’d down the sides of Xanthus, headlong plunged10
+With dashing sound into his dizzy stream,
+And all his banks re-echoed loud the roar.
+They, struggling, shriek’d in silver eddies whirl’d.
+As when, by violence of fire expell’d,
+Locusts uplifted on the wing escape15
+To some broad river, swift the sudden blaze
+Pursues them, they, astonish’d, strew the flood,[2]
+So, by Achilles driven, a mingled throng
+Of horses and of warriors overspread
+Xanthus, and glutted all his sounding course20
+He, chief of heroes, leaving on the bank
+His spear against a tamarisk reclined,
+Plunged like a God, with falchion arm’d alone
+But fill’d with thoughts of havoc. On all sides
+Down came his edge; groans follow’d dread to hear25
+Of warriors smitten by the sword, and all
+The waters as they ran redden’d with blood.
+As smaller fishes, flying the pursuit
+Of some huge dolphin, terrified, the creeks
+And secret hollows of a haven fill,30
+For none of all that he can seize he spares,
+So lurk’d the trembling Trojans in the caves
+Of Xanthus’ awful flood. But he (his hands
+Wearied at length with slaughter) from the rest
+Twelve youths selected whom to death he doom’d,35
+In vengeance for his loved Patroclus slain.
+Them stupified with dread like fawns he drove
+Forth from the river, manacling their hands
+Behind them fast with their own tunic-strings,
+And gave them to his warrior train in charge.40
+Then, ardent still for blood, rushing again
+Toward the stream, Dardanian Priam’s son
+He met, Lycaon, as he climb’d the bank.
+Him erst by night, in his own father’s field
+Finding him, he had led captive away.45
+Lycaon was employ’d cutting green shoots
+Of the wild-fig for chariot-rings, when lo!
+Terrible, unforeseen, Achilles came.
+He seized and sent him in a ship afar
+To Lemnos; there the son of Jason paid50
+His price, and, at great cost, Eëtion
+The guest of Jason, thence redeeming him,
+Sent him to fair Arisba;[3] but he ’scaped
+Thence also and regain’d his father’s house.
+Eleven days, at his return, he gave55
+To recreation joyous with his friends,
+And on the twelfth his fate cast him again
+Into Achilles’ hands, who to the shades
+Now doom’d him, howsoever loth to go.
+Soon as Achilles swiftest of the swift60
+Him naked saw (for neither spear had he
+Nor shield nor helmet, but, when he emerged,
+Weary and faint had cast them all away)
+Indignant to his mighty self he said.
+  Gods! I behold a miracle! Ere long65
+The valiant Trojans whom my self have slain
+Shall rise from Erebus, for he is here,
+The self-same warrior whom I lately sold
+At Lemnos, free, and in the field again.
+The hoary deep is prison strong enough70
+For most, but not for him. Now shall he taste
+The point of this my spear, that I may learn
+By sure experience, whether hell itself
+That holds the strongest fast, can him detain,
+Or whether he shall thence also escape.75
+  While musing thus he stood, stunn’d with dismay
+The youth approach’d, eager to clasp his knees,
+For vehement he felt the dread of death
+Working within him; with his Pelian ash
+Uplifted high noble Achilles stood80
+Ardent to smite him; he with body bent
+Ran under it, and to his knees adhered;
+The weapon, missing him, implanted stood
+Close at his back, when, seizing with one hand
+Achilles’ knees, he with the other grasp’d85
+The dreadful beam, resolute through despair,
+And in wing’d accents suppliant thus began.
+  Oh spare me! pity me! Behold I clasp
+Thy knees, Achilles! Ah, illustrious Chief!
+Reject not with disdain a suppliant’s prayer.90
+I am thy guest also, who at thy own board
+Have eaten bread, and did partake the gift
+Of Ceres with thee on the very day
+When thou didst send me in yon field surprised
+For sale to sacred Lemnos, far remote,95
+And for my price receiv’dst a hundred beeves.
+Loose me, and I will yield thee now that sum
+Thrice told. Alas! this morn is but the twelfth
+Since, after numerous hardships, I arrived
+Once more in Troy, and now my ruthless lot100
+Hath given me into thy hands again.
+Jove cannot less than hate me, who hath twice
+Made me thy prisoner, and my doom was death,
+Death in my prime, the day when I was born
+Son of Laothöe from Alta sprung,105
+From Alta, whom the Leleges obey
+On Satnio’s banks in lofty Pedasus.
+His daughter to his other numerous wives
+King Priam added, and two sons she bore
+Only to be deprived by thee of both.110
+My brother hath already died, in front
+Of Ilium’s infantry, by thy bright spear,
+The godlike Polydorus; and like doom
+Shall now be mine, for I despair to escape
+Thine hands, to which the Gods yield me again.115
+But hear and mark me well. My birth was not
+From the same womb as Hector’s, who hath slain
+Thy valiant friend for clemency renown’d.
+  Such supplication the illustrious son
+Of Priam made, but answer harsh received.120
+  Fool! speak’st of ransom? Name it not to me.
+For till my friend his miserable fate
+Accomplish’d, I was somewhat given to spare,
+And numerous, whom I seized alive, I sold.
+But now, of all the Trojans whom the Gods125
+Deliver to me, none shall death escape,
+’Specially of the house of Priam, none.
+Die therefore, even thou, my friend! What mean
+Thy tears unreasonably shed and vain?
+Died not Patroclus. braver far than thou?130
+And look on me—see’st not to what a height
+My stature towers, and what a bulk I boast?
+A King begat me, and a Goddess bore.
+What then! A death by violence awaits
+Me also, and at morn, or eve, or noon,135
+I perish, whensoe’er the destined spear
+Shall reach me, or the arrow from the nerve.
+  He ceased, and where the suppliant kneel’d, he died.
+Quitting the spear, with both hands spread abroad
+He sat, but swift Achilles with his sword140
+’Twixt neck and key-bone smote him, and his blade
+Of double edge sank all into the wound.
+He prone extended on the champain lay
+Bedewing with his sable blood the glebe,
+Till, by the foot, Achilles cast him far145
+Into the stream, and, as he floated down,
+Thus in wing’d accents, glorying, exclaim’d.
+  Lie there, and feed the fishes, which shall lick
+Thy blood secure. Thy mother ne’er shall place
+Thee on thy bier, nor on thy body weep,150
+But swift Scamander on his giddy tide
+Shall bear thee to the bosom of the sea.
+There, many a fish shall through the crystal flood
+Ascending to the rippled surface, find
+Lycaon’s pamper’d flesh delicious fare.155
+Die Trojans! till we reach your city, you
+Fleeing, and slaughtering, I. This pleasant stream
+Of dimpling silver which ye worship oft
+With victim bulls, and sate with living steeds[4]
+His rapid whirlpools, shall avail you nought,160
+But ye shall die, die terribly, till all
+Shall have requited me with just amends
+For my Patroclus, and for other Greeks
+Slain at the ships while I declined the war.
+  He ended, at those words still more incensed165
+Scamander means devised, thenceforth to check
+Achilles, and avert the doom of Troy.
+Meantime the son of Peleus, his huge spear
+Grasping, assail’d Asteropæus son
+Of Pelegon, on fire to take his life.170
+Fair Peribœa, daughter eldest-born
+Of Acessamenus, his father bore
+To broad-stream’d Axius, who had clasp’d the nymph
+In his embrace. On him Achilles sprang.
+He newly risen from the river, stood175
+Arm’d with two lances opposite, for him
+Xanthus embolden’d, at the deaths incensed
+Of many a youth, whom, mercy none vouchsafed,
+Achilles had in all his current slain.
+And now small distance interposed, they faced180
+Each other, when Achilles thus began.
+  Who art and whence, who dar’st encounter me?
+Hapless the sires whose sons my force defy.
+  To whom the noble son of Pelegon.
+Pelides, mighty Chief? Why hast thou ask’d185
+My derivation? From the land I come
+Of mellow-soil’d Pœonia far remote,
+Chief leader of Pœnia’s host spear-arm’d;
+This day hath also the eleventh risen
+Since I at Troy arrived. For my descent,190
+It is from Axius river wide-diffused,
+From Axius, fairest stream that waters earth,
+Sire of bold Pelegon whom men report
+My sire. Let this suffice. Now fight, Achilles!
+  So spake he threatening, and Achilles raised195
+Dauntless the Pelian ash. At once two spears
+The hero bold, Asteropæus threw,
+With both hands apt for battle. One his shield
+Struck but pierced not, impeded by the gold,
+Gift of a God; the other as it flew200
+Grazed at his right elbow; sprang the sable blood;
+But, overflying him, the spear in earth
+Stood planted deep, still hungering for the prey.
+Then, full at the Pœonian Peleus’ son
+Hurl’d forth his weapon with unsparing force205
+But vain; he struck the sloping river bank,
+And mid-length deep stood plunged the ashen beam.
+Then, with his falchion drawn, Achilles flew
+To smite him; he in vain, meantime, essay’d
+To pluck the rooted spear forth from the bank;210
+Thrice with full force he shook the beam, and thrice,
+Although reluctant, left it; at his fourth
+Last effort, bending it he sought to break
+The ashen spear-beam of Æacides,
+But perish’d by his keen-edged falchion first;215
+For on the belly at his navel’s side
+He smote him; to the ground effused fell all
+His bowels, death’s dim shadows veil’d his eyes.
+Achilles ardent on his bosom fix’d
+His foot, despoil’d him, and exulting cried.220
+  Lie there; though River-sprung, thou find’st it hard
+To cope with sons of Jove omnipotent.
+Thou said’st, a mighty River is my sire—
+But my descent from mightier Jove I boast;
+My father, whom the Myrmidons obey,225
+Is son of Æacus, and he of Jove.
+As Jove all streams excels that seek the sea,
+So, Jove’s descendants nobler are than theirs.
+Behold a River at thy side—let him
+Afford thee, if he can, some succor—No—230
+He may not fight against Saturnian Jove.
+Therefore, not kingly Acheloïus,
+Nor yet the strength of Ocean’s vast profound,
+Although from him all rivers and all seas,
+All fountains and all wells proceed, may boast235
+Comparison with Jove, but even he
+Astonish’d trembles at his fiery bolt,
+And his dread thunders rattling in the sky.
+He said, and drawing from the bank his spear[5]
+Asteropæus left stretch’d on the sands,240
+Where, while the clear wave dash’d him, eels his flanks
+And ravening fishes numerous nibbled bare.
+The horsed Pœonians next he fierce assail’d,
+Who seeing their brave Chief slain by the sword
+And forceful arm of Peleus’ son, beside245
+The eddy-whirling stream fled all dispersed.
+Thersilochus and Mydon then he slew,
+Thrasius, Astypylus and Ophelestes,
+Ænius and Mnesus; nor had these sufficed
+Achilles, but Pœonians more had fallen,250
+Had not the angry River from within
+His circling gulfs in semblance, of a man
+Call’d to him, interrupting thus his rage.
+  Oh both in courage and injurious deeds
+Unmatch’d, Achilles! whom themselves the Gods255
+Cease not to aid, if Saturn’s son have doom’d
+All Ilium’s race to perish by thine arm,
+Expel them, first, from me, ere thou achieve
+That dread exploit; for, cumber’d as I am
+With bodies, I can pour my pleasant stream260
+No longer down into the sacred deep;
+All vanish where thou comest. But oh desist
+Dread Chief! Amazement fills me at thy deeds.
+  To whom Achilles, matchless in the race.
+River divine! hereafter be it so.265
+But not from slaughter of this faithless host
+I cease, till I shall shut them fast in Troy
+And trial make of Hector, if his arm
+In single fight shall strongest prove, or mine
+  He said, and like a God, furious, again270
+Assail’d the Trojans; then the circling flood
+To Phœbus thus his loud complaint address’d.
+  Ah son of Jove, God of the silver bow!
+The mandate of the son of Saturn ill
+Hast thou perform’d, who, earnest, bade thee aid275
+The Trojans, till (the sun sunk in the West)
+Night’s shadow dim should veil the fruitful field.
+  He ended, and Achilles spear-renown’d
+Plunged from the bank into the middle stream.
+Then, turbulent, the River all his tide280
+Stirr’d from the bottom, landward heaving off
+The numerous bodies that his current chok’d
+Slain by Achilles; them, as with the roar
+Of bulls, he cast aground, but deep within
+His oozy gulfs the living safe conceal’d.285
+Terrible all around Achilles stood
+The curling wave, then, falling on his shield
+Dash’d him, nor found his footsteps where to rest.
+An elm of massy trunk he seized and branch
+Luxuriant, but it fell torn from the root290
+And drew the whole bank after it; immersed
+It damm’d the current with its ample boughs,
+And join’d as with a bridge the distant shores,
+Upsprang Achilles from the gulf and turn’d
+His feet, now wing’d for flight, into the plain295
+Astonish’d; but the God, not so appeased,
+Arose against him with a darker curl,[6]
+That he might quell him and deliver Troy.
+Back flew Achilles with a bound, the length
+Of a spear’s cast, for such a spring he own’d300
+As bears the black-plumed eagle on her prey
+Strongest and swiftest of the fowls of air.
+Like her he sprang, and dreadful on his chest
+Clang’d his bright armor. Then, with course oblique
+He fled his fierce pursuer, but the flood,305
+Fly where he might, came thundering in his rear.
+As when the peasant with his spade a rill
+Conducts from some pure fountain through his grove
+Or garden, clearing the obstructed course,
+The pebbles, as it runs, all ring beneath,310
+And, as the slope still deepens, swifter still
+It runs, and, murmuring, outstrips the guide,
+So him, though swift, the river always reach’d
+Still swifter; who can cope with power divine?
+Oft as the noble Chief, turning, essay’d315
+Resistance, and to learn if all the Gods
+Alike rush’d after him, so oft the flood,
+Jove’s offspring, laved his shoulders. Upward then
+He sprang distress’d, but with a sidelong sweep
+Assailing him, and from beneath his steps320
+Wasting the soil, the Stream his force subdued.
+Then looking to the skies, aloud he mourn’d.
+  Eternal Sire! forsaken by the Gods
+I sink, none deigns to save me from the flood,
+From which once saved, I would no death decline.325
+Yet blame I none of all the Powers of heaven
+As Thetis; she with falsehood sooth’d my soul,
+She promised me a death by Phœbus’ shafts
+Swift-wing’d, beneath the battlements of Troy.
+I would that Hector, noblest of his race,330
+Had slain me, I had then bravely expired
+And a brave man had stripp’d me of my arms.
+But fate now dooms me to a death abhorr’d
+Whelm’d in deep waters, like a swine-herd’s boy
+Drown’d in wet weather while he fords a brook.335
+  So spake Achilles; then, in human form,
+Minerva stood and Neptune at his side;
+Each seized his hand confirming him, and thus
+The mighty Shaker of the shores began.
+  Achilles! moderate thy dismay, fear nought.340
+In us behold, in Pallas and in me,
+Effectual aids, and with consent of Jove;
+For to be vanquish’d by a River’s force
+Is not thy doom. This foe shall soon be quell’d;
+Thine eyes shall see it. Let our counsel rule345
+Thy deed, and all is well. Cease not from war
+Till fast within proud Ilium’s walls her host
+Again be prison’d, all who shall escape;
+Then (Hector slain) to the Achaian fleet
+Return; we make the glorious victory thine.350
+  So they, and both departing sought the skies.
+Then, animated by the voice divine,
+He moved toward the plain now all o’erspread
+By the vast flood on which the bodies swam
+And shields of many a youth in battle slain.355
+He leap’d, he waded, and the current stemm’d
+Right onward, by the flood in vain opposed,
+With such might Pallas fill’d him. Nor his rage
+Scamander aught repress’d, but still the more
+Incensed against Achilles, curl’d aloft360
+His waters, and on Simoïs call’d aloud.
+  Brother! oh let us with united force
+Check, if we may, this warrior; he shall else
+Soon lay the lofty towers of Priam low,
+Whose host appall’d, defend them now no more.365
+Haste—succor me—thy channel fill with streams
+From all thy fountains; call thy torrents down;
+Lift high the waters; mingle trees and stones
+With uproar wild, that we may quell the force
+Of this dread Chief triumphant now, and fill’d370
+With projects that might more beseem a God.
+But vain shall be his strength, his beauty nought
+Shall profit him or his resplendent arms,
+For I will bury them in slime and ooze,
+And I will overwhelm himself with soil,375
+Sands heaping o’er him and around him sands
+Infinite, that no Greek shall find his bones
+For ever, in my bottom deep immersed.
+There shall his tomb be piled, nor other earth,
+At his last rites, his friends shall need for him.380
+  He said, and lifting high his angry tide
+Vortiginous, against Achilles hurl’d,
+Roaring, the foam, the bodies, and the blood;
+Then all his sable waves divine again
+Accumulating, bore him swift along.385
+Shriek’d Juno at that sight, terrified lest
+Achilles in the whirling deluge sunk
+Should perish, and to Vulcan quick exclaim’d.
+  Vulcan, my son, arise; for we account
+Xanthus well able to contend with thee.390
+Give instant succor; show forth all thy fires.
+Myself will haste to call the rapid South
+And Zephyrus, that tempests from the sea
+Blowing, thou may’st both arms and dead consume
+With hideous conflagration. Burn along395
+The banks of Xanthus, fire his trees and him
+Seize also. Let him by no specious guile
+Of flattery soothe thee, or by threats appall,
+Nor slack thy furious fires till with a shout
+I give command, then bid them cease to blaze.400
+  She spake, and Vulcan at her word his fires
+Shot dreadful forth; first, kindling on the field,
+He burn’d the bodies strew’d numerous around
+Slain by Achilles; arid grew the earth
+And the flood ceased. As when a sprightly breeze405
+Autumnal blowing from the North, at once
+Dries the new-water’d garden,[7] gladdening him
+Who tills the soil, so was the champain dried;
+The dead consumed, against the River, next,
+He turn’d the fierceness of his glittering fires.410
+Willows and tamarisks and elms he burn’d,
+Burn’d lotus, rushes, reeds; all plants and herbs
+That clothed profuse the margin of his flood.
+His eels and fishes, whether wont to dwell
+In gulfs beneath, or tumble in the stream,415
+All languish’d while the artist of the skies
+Breath’d on them; even Xanthus lost, himself,
+All force, and, suppliant, Vulcan thus address’d.
+  Oh Vulcan! none in heaven itself may cope
+With thee. I yield to thy consuming fires.420
+Cease, cease. I reck not if Achilles drive
+Her citizens, this moment, forth from Troy,
+For what are war and war’s concerns to me?
+  So spake he scorch’d, and all his waters boil’d.
+As some huge caldron hisses urged by force425
+Of circling fires and fill’d with melted lard,
+The unctuous fluid overbubbling[8] streams
+On all sides, while the dry wood flames beneath,
+So Xanthus bubbled and his pleasant flood
+Hiss’d in the fire, nor could he longer flow430
+But check’d his current, with hot steams annoy’d
+By Vulcan raised. His supplication, then,
+Importunate to Juno thus he turn’d.
+  Ah Juno! why assails thy son my streams,
+Hostile to me alone? Of all who aid435
+The Trojans I am surely least to blame,
+Yet even I desist if thou command;
+And let thy son cease also; for I swear
+That never will I from the Trojans turn
+Their evil day, not even when the host440
+Of Greece shall set all Ilium in a blaze.
+  He said, and by his oath pacified, thus
+The white-arm’d Deity to Vulcan spake.
+  Peace, glorious son! we may not in behalf
+Of mortal man thus longer vex a God.445
+  Then Vulcan his tremendous fires repress’d,
+And down into his gulfy channel rush’d
+The refluent flood; for when the force was once
+Subdued of Xanthus, Juno interposed,
+Although incensed, herself to quell the strife.450
+  But contest vehement the other Gods
+Now waged, each breathing discord; loud they rush’d
+And fierce to battle, while the boundless earth
+Quaked under them, and, all around, the heavens
+Sang them together with a trumpet’s voice.455
+Jove listening, on the Olympian summit sat
+Well-pleased, and, in his heart laughing for joy,
+Beheld the Powers of heaven in battle join’d.
+Not long aloof they stood. Shield-piercer Mars,
+His brazen spear grasp’d, and began the fight460
+Rushing on Pallas, whom he thus reproach’d.
+  Wasp! front of impudence, and past all bounds
+Audacious! Why impellest thou the Gods
+To fight? Thy own proud spirit is the cause.
+Remember’st not, how, urged by thee, the son465
+Of Tydeus, Diomede, myself assail’d,
+When thou, the radiant spear with thy own hand
+Guiding, didst rend my body? Now, I ween,
+The hour is come in which I shall exact
+Vengeance for all thy malice shown to me.470
+  So saying, her shield he smote tassell’d around
+Terrific, proof against the bolts of Jove;
+That shield gore-tainted Mars with fury smote.
+But she, retiring, with strong grasp upheaved
+A rugged stone, black, ponderous, from the plain,475
+A land-mark fixt by men of ancient times,
+Which hurling at the neck of stormy Mars
+She smote him. Down he fell. Seven acres, stretch’d,
+He overspread, his ringlets in the dust
+Polluted lay, and dreadful rang his arms.480
+The Goddess laugh’d, and thus in accents wing’d
+With exultation, as he lay, exclaim’d.
+  Fool! Art thou still to learn how far my force
+Surpasses thine, and darest thou cope with me?
+Now feel the furies of thy mother’s ire485
+Who hates thee for thy treachery to the Greeks,
+And for thy succor given to faithless Troy.
+  She said, and turn’d from Mars her glorious eyes.
+But him deep-groaning and his torpid powers
+Recovering slow, Venus conducted thence490
+Daughter of Jove, whom soon as Juno mark’d,
+In accents wing’d to Pallas thus she spake.
+  Daughter invincible of glorious Jove!
+Haste—follow her—Ah shameless! how she leads
+Gore-tainted Mars through all the host of heaven.495
+
+  So she, whom Pallas with delight obey’d;
+To Venus swift she flew, and on the breast
+With such force smote her that of sense bereft
+The fainting Goddess fell. There Venus lay
+And Mars extended on the fruitful glebe,500
+And Pallas thus in accents wing’d exclaim’d.
+  I would that all who on the part of Troy
+Oppose in fight Achaia’s valiant sons,
+Were firm and bold as Venus in defence
+Of Mars, for whom she dared my power defy!505
+So had dissension (Ilium overthrown
+And desolated) ceased long since in heaven.
+  So Pallas, and approving Juno smiled.
+Then the imperial Shaker of the shores
+Thus to Apollo. Phœbus! wherefore stand510
+_We_ thus aloof? Since others have begun,
+Begin we also; shame it were to both
+Should we, no combat waged, ascend again
+Olympus and the brass-built hall of Jove.
+Begin, for thou art younger; me, whose years515
+Alike and knowledge thine surpass so far,
+It suits not. Oh stupidity! how gross
+Art thou and senseless! Are no traces left
+In thy remembrance of our numerous wrongs
+Sustain’d at Ilium, when, of all the Gods520
+Ourselves alone, by Jove’s commandment, served
+For stipulated hire, a year complete,
+Our task-master the proud Laomedon?
+Myself a bulwark’d town, spacious, secure
+Against assault, and beautiful as strong525
+Built for the Trojans, and thine office was
+To feed for King Laomedon his herds
+Among the groves of Ida many-valed.
+But when the gladsome hours the season brought
+Of payment, then the unjust King of Troy530
+Dismiss’d us of our whole reward amerced
+By violence, and added threats beside.
+Thee into distant isles, bound hand and foot,
+To sell he threatened, and to amputate
+The ears of both; we, therefore, hasted thence535
+Resenting deep our promised hire withheld.
+Aid’st thou for this the Trojans? Canst thou less
+Than seek, with us, to exterminate the whole
+Perfidious race, wives, children, husbands, all?
+  To whom the King of radiant shafts Apollo.540
+Me, Neptune, thou wouldst deem, thyself, unwise
+Contending for the sake of mortal men
+With thee; a wretched race, who like the leaves
+Now flourish rank, by fruits of earth sustain’d,
+Now sapless fall. Here, therefore, us between545
+Let all strife cease, far better left to them.
+  He said, and turn’d away, fearing to lift
+His hand against the brother of his sire.
+But him Diana of the woods with sharp
+Rebuke, his huntress sister, thus reproved.550
+  Fly’st thou, Apollo! and to Neptune yield’st
+An unearn’d victory, the prize of fame
+Resigning patient and with no dispute?
+Fool! wherefore bearest thou the bow in vain?
+Ah, let me never in my father’s courts555
+Hear thee among the immortals vaunting more
+That thou wouldst Neptune’s self confront in arms.
+  So she, to whom Apollo nought replied.[9]
+But thus the consort of the Thunderer, fired
+With wrath, reproved the Archeress of heaven.560
+  How hast thou dared, impudent, to oppose
+My will? Bow-practised as thou art, the task
+To match my force were difficult to thee.
+Is it, because by ordinance of Jove
+Thou art a lioness to womankind,565
+Killing them at thy pleasure? Ah beware—
+Far easier is it, on the mountain-heights
+To slay wild beasts and chase the roving hind,
+Than to conflict with mightier than ourselves.
+But, if thou wish a lesson on that theme,570
+Approach—thou shalt be taught with good effect
+How far my force in combat passes thine.
+  She said, and with her left hand seizing both
+Diana’s wrists, snatch’d suddenly the bow
+Suspended on her shoulder with the right,575
+And, smiling, smote her with it on the ears.
+She, writhing oft and struggling, to the ground
+Shook forth her rapid shafts, then, weeping, fled
+As to her cavern in some hollow rock
+The dove, not destined to his talons, flies580
+The hawk’s pursuit, and left her arms behind.
+  Then, messenger of heaven, the Argicide
+Address’d Latona. Combat none with thee,
+Latona, will I wage. Unsafe it were
+To cope in battle with a spouse of Jove.585
+Go, therefore, loudly as thou wilt, proclaim
+To all the Gods that thou hast vanquish’d me.
+  Collecting, then, the bow and arrows fallen
+In wild disorder on the dusty plain,
+Latona with the sacred charge withdrew590
+Following her daughter; she, in the abode
+Brass-built arriving of Olympian Jove,
+Sat on his knees, weeping till all her robe
+Ambrosial shook. The mighty Father smiled,
+And to his bosom straining her, inquired.595
+  Daughter beloved! who, which of all the Gods
+Hath raised his hand, presumptuous, against thee,
+As if convicted of some open wrong?
+  To whom the clear-voiced Huntress crescent-crown’d.
+My Father! Juno, thy own consort fair600
+My sorrow caused, from whom dispute and strife
+Perpetual, threaten the immortal Powers.
+  Thus they in heaven mutual conferr’d. Meantime
+Apollo into sacred Troy return’d
+Mindful to guard her bulwarks, lest the Greeks605
+Too soon for Fate should desolate the town.
+The other Gods, some angry, some elate
+With victory, the Olympian heights regain’d,
+And sat beside the Thunderer. But the son
+Of Peleus—He both Trojans slew and steeds.610
+As when in volumes slow smoke climbs the skies
+From some great city which the Gods have fired
+Vindictive, sorrow thence to many ensues
+With mischief, and to all labor severe,
+So caused Achilles labor on that day,615
+Severe, and mischief to the men of Troy.
+  But ancient Priam from a sacred tower
+Stood looking forth, whence soon he noticed vast
+Achilles, before whom the Trojans fled
+All courage lost. Descending from the tower620
+With mournful cries and hasting to the wall
+He thus enjoin’d the keepers of the gates.
+  Hold wide the portals till the flying host
+Re-enter, for himself is nigh, himself
+Achilles drives them home. Now, wo to Troy!625
+But soon as safe within the walls received
+They breathe again, shut fast the ponderous gates
+At once, lest that destroyer also pass.
+  He said; they, shooting back the bars, threw wide
+The gates and saved the people, whom to aid630
+Apollo also sprang into the field,
+They, parch’d with drought and whiten’d all with dust,
+Flew right toward the town, while, spear in hand,
+Achilles press’d them, vengeance in his heart
+And all on fire for glory. Then, full sure,635
+Ilium, the city of lofty gates, had fallen
+Won by the Grecians, had not Phœbus roused
+Antenor’s valiant son, the noble Chief
+Agenor; him with dauntless might he fill’d,
+And shielding him against the stroke of fate640
+Beside him stood himself, by the broad beech
+Cover’d and wrapt in clouds. Agenor then,
+Seeing the city-waster hero nigh
+Achilles, stood, but standing, felt his mind
+Troubled with doubts; he groan’d, and thus he mused.645
+  [10]Alas! if following the tumultuous flight
+Of these, I shun Achilles, swifter far
+He soon will lop my ignominious head.
+But if, these leaving to be thus dispersed
+Before him, from the city-wall I fly650
+Across the plain of Troy into the groves
+Of Ida, and in Ida’s thickets lurk,
+I may, at evening, to the town return
+Bathed and refresh’d. But whither tend my thoughts?
+Should he my flight into the plain observe655
+And swift pursuing seize me, then, farewell
+All hope to scape a miserable death,
+For he hath strength passing the strength of man.
+How then—shall I withstand him here before
+The city? He hath also flesh to steel660
+Pervious, within it but a single life,
+And men report him mortal, howsoe’er
+Saturnian Jove lift him to glory now.
+  So saying, he turn’d and stood, his dauntless heart
+Beating for battle. As the pard springs forth665
+To meet the hunter from her gloomy lair,
+Nor, hearing loud the hounds, fears or retires,
+But whether from afar or nigh at hand
+He pierce her first, although transfixt, the fight
+Still tries, and combats desperate till she fall,670
+So, brave Antenor’s son fled not, or shrank,
+Till he had proved Achilles, but his breast
+O’ershadowing with his buckler and his spear
+Aiming well-poised against him, loud exclaim’d.
+  Renown’d Achilles! Thou art high in hope675
+Doubtless, that thou shalt this day overthrow
+The city of the glorious sons of Troy.
+Fool! ye must labor yet ere she be won,
+For numerous are her citizens and bold,
+And we will guard her for our parents’ sake680
+Our wives and little ones. But here thou diest
+Terrible Chief and dauntless as thou art.
+  He said, and with full force hurling his lance
+Smote, and err’d not, his greave beneath his knee
+The glittering tin, forged newly, at the stroke685
+Tremendous rang, but quick recoil’d and vain
+The weapon, weak against that guard divine.
+Then sprang Achilles in his turn to assail
+Godlike Agenor, but Apollo took
+That glory from him, snatching wrapt in clouds690
+Agenor thence, whom calm he sent away.
+  Then Phœbus from pursuit of Ilium’s host
+By art averted Peleus’ son; the form
+Assuming of Agenor, swift he fled
+Before him, and Achilles swift pursued.695
+While him Apollo thus lured to the chase
+Wide o’er the fruitful plain, inclining still
+Toward Scamander’s dizzy stream his course
+Nor flying far before, but with false hope
+Always beguiling him, the scatter’d host700
+Meantime, in joyful throngs, regain’d the town.
+They fill’d and shut it fast, nor dared to wait
+Each other in the field, or to inquire
+Who lived and who had fallen, but all, whom flight
+Had rescued, like a flood pour’d into Troy.705
+
+
+The Trojans being now within the city, excepting Hector, the field is
+cleared for the most important and decisive action in the poem; that
+is, the battle between Achilles and Hector, and the death of the
+latter. This part of the story is managed with singular skill. It seems
+as if the poet, feeling the importance of the catastrophe, wished to
+withdraw from view the personages of less consequence, and to
+concentrate our attention upon those two alone. The poetic action and
+description are narrowed in extent, but deepened in interest. The fate
+of Troy is impending; the irreversible decree of Jupiter is about to be
+executed; the heroes, whose bravery is to be the instrument of bringing
+about this consummation, are left together on the plain.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XXII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND BOOK.
+
+Achilles slays Hector.
+
+
+BOOK XXII.
+
+
+Thus they, throughout all Troy, like hunted fawns
+Dispersed, their trickling limbs at leisure cool’d,
+And, drinking, slaked their fiery thirst, reclined
+Against the battlements. Meantime, the Greeks
+Sloping their shields, approach’d the walls of Troy,5
+And Hector, by his adverse fate ensnared,
+Still stood exposed before the Scæan gate.
+Then spake Apollo thus to Peleus’ son.
+  Wherefore, thyself mortal, pursuest thou me
+Immortal? oh Achilles! blind with rage,10
+Thou know’st not yet, that thou pursuest a God.
+Unmindful of thy proper task, to press
+The flying Trojans, thou hast hither turn’d
+Devious, and they are all now safe in Troy;
+Yet hope me not to slay; I cannot die.15
+  To whom Achilles swiftest of the swift,
+Indignant. Oh, of all the Powers above
+To me most adverse, Archer of the skies!
+Thou hast beguiled me, leading me away
+From Ilium far, whence intercepted, else,20
+No few had at this moment gnaw’d the glebe.
+Thou hast defrauded me of great renown,
+And, safe thyself, hast rescued _them_ with ease.
+Ah—had I power, I would requite thee well.
+  So saying, incensed he turned toward the town25
+His rapid course, like some victorious steed
+That whirls, at stretch, a chariot to the goal.
+Such seem’d Achilles, coursing light the field.
+  Him, first, the ancient King of Troy perceived
+Scouring the plain, resplendent as the star30
+Autumnal, of all stars in dead of night
+Conspicous most, and named Orion’s dog;
+Brightest it shines, but ominous, and dire
+Disease portends to miserable man;[1]
+So beam’d Achilles’ armor as he flew.35
+Loud wail’d the hoary King; with lifted hands
+His head he smote, and, uttering doleful cries
+Of supplication, sued to his own son.
+He, fixt before the gate, desirous stood
+Of combat with Achilles, when his sire40
+With arms outstretch’d toward him, thus began.
+  My Hector! wait not, oh my son! the approach
+Of this dread Chief, alone, lest premature
+Thou die, this moment by Achilles slain,
+For he is strongest far. Oh that the Gods45
+Him loved as I! then, soon should vultures rend
+And dogs his carcase, and my grief should cease.
+He hath unchilded me of many a son,
+All valiant youths, whom he hath slain or sold
+To distant isles, and even now, I miss50
+Two sons, whom since the shutting of the gates
+I find not, Polydorus and Lycaon,
+My children by Laothöe the fair.
+If they survive prisoners in yonder camp,
+I will redeem them with gold and brass55
+By noble Eltes to his daughter given,
+Large store, and still reserved. But should they both,
+Already slain, have journey’d to the shades,
+We, then, from whom they sprang have cause to mourn
+And mourn them long, but shorter shall the grief60
+Of Ilium prove, if thou escape and live.
+Come then, my son! enter the city-gate
+That thou may’st save us all, nor in thy bloom
+Of life cut off, enhance Achilles’ fame.
+Commiserate also thy unhappy sire65
+Ere yet distracted, whom Saturnian Jove
+Ordains to a sad death, and ere I die
+To woes innumerable; to behold
+Sons slaughter’d, daughters ravish’d, torn and stripp’d
+The matrimonial chamber, infants dash’d70
+Against the ground in dire hostility,[2]
+And matrons dragg’d by ruthless Grecian hands.
+Me, haply, last of all, dogs shall devour
+In my own vestibule, when once the spear
+Or falchion of some Greek hath laid me low.75
+The very dogs fed at my table-side,
+My portal-guards, drinking their master’s blood
+To drunkenness, shall wallow in my courts.
+Fair falls the warlike youth in battle slain,
+And when he lies torn by the pointed steel,80
+His death becomes him well; he is secure,
+Though dead, from shame, whatever next befalls:
+But when the silver locks and silver beard
+Of an old man slain by the sword, from dogs
+Receive dishonor, of all ills that wait85
+On miserable man, that sure is worst.
+  So spake the ancient King, and his grey hairs
+Pluck’d with both hands, but Hector firm endured.
+On the other side all tears his mother stood,
+And lamentation; with one hand she bared,90
+And with the other hand produced her breast,
+Then in wing’d accents, weeping, him bespake.
+  My Hector! reverence this, and pity me
+If ever, drawing forth this breast, thy griefs
+Of infancy I soothed, oh now, my son!95
+Acknowledge it, and from within the walls
+Repulse this enemy; stand not abroad
+To cope with _him_, for he is savage-fierce,
+And should he slay thee, neither shall myself
+Who bore thee, nor thy noble spouse weep o’er100
+Thy body, but, where we can never come,
+Dogs shall devour it in the fleet of Greece.
+  So they with prayers importuned, and with tears
+Their son, but him sway’d not; unmoved he stood,
+Expecting vast Achilles now at hand.105
+As some fell serpent in his cave expects
+The traveller’s approach, batten’d with herbs
+Of baneful juice to fury,[3] forth he looks
+Hideous, and lies coil’d all around his den,
+So Hector, fill’d with confidence untamed,110
+Fled not, but placing his bright shield against
+A buttress, with his noble heart conferr’d.
+  [4]Alas for me! should I repass the gate,
+Polydamas would be the first to heap
+Reproaches on me, for he bade me lead115
+The Trojans back this last calamitous night
+In which Achilles rose to arms again.
+But I refused, although to have complied,
+Had proved more profitable far; since then
+By rash resolves of mine I have destroy’d120
+The people, how can I escape the blame
+Of all in Troy? The meanest there will say—
+By his self-will he hath destroy’d us all.
+So shall they speak, and then shall I regret
+That I return’d ere I had slain in fight125
+Achilles, or that, by Achilles slain,
+I died not nobly in defence of Troy.
+But shall I thus? Lay down my bossy shield,
+Put off my helmet, and my spear recline
+Against the city wall, then go myself130
+To meet the brave Achilles, and at once
+Promise him Helen, for whose sake we strive
+With all the wealth that Paris in his fleet
+Brought home, to be restored to Atreus’ sons,
+And to distribute to the Greeks at large135
+All hidden treasures of the town, an oath
+Taking beside from every senator,
+That he will nought conceal, but will produce
+And share in just equality what stores
+Soever our fair city still includes?140
+Ah airy speculations, questions vain!
+I may not sue to him: compassion none
+Will he vouchsafe me, or my suit respect.
+But, seeing me unarm’d, will sate at once
+His rage, and womanlike I shall be slain.145
+It is no time from oak or hollow rock
+With him to parley, as a nymph and swain,
+A nymph and swain[5] soft parley mutual hold,
+But rather to engage in combat fierce
+Incontinent; so shall we soonest learn150
+Whom Jove will make victorious, him or me.
+  Thus pondering he stood; meantime approach’d
+Achilles, terrible as fiery Mars,
+Crest-tossing God, and brandish’d as he came
+O’er his right shoulder high the Pelian spear.155
+Like lightning, or like flame, or like the sun
+Ascending, beam’d his armor. At that sight
+Trembled the Trojan Chief, nor dared expect
+His nearer step, but flying left the gates
+Far distant, and Achilles swift pursued.160
+As in the mountains, fleetest fowl of air,
+The hawk darts eager at the dove; she scuds
+Aslant, he screaming, springs and springs again
+To seize her, all impatient for the prey,
+So flew Achilles constant to the track165
+Of Hector, who with dreadful haste beneath
+The Trojan bulwarks plied his agile limbs.
+Passing the prospect-mount where high in air
+The wild-fig waved,[6] they rush’d along the road,
+Declining never from the wall of Troy.170
+And now they reach’d the running rivulets clear,
+Where from Scamander’s dizzy flood arise
+Two fountains,[7] tepid one, from which a smoke
+Issues voluminous as from a fire,
+The other, even in summer heats, like hail175
+For cold, or snow, or crystal-stream frost-bound.
+Beside them may be seen the broad canals
+Of marble scoop’d, in which the wives of Troy
+And all her daughters fair were wont to lave
+Their costly raiment,[8] while the land had rest,180
+And ere the warlike sons of Greece arrived.
+By these they ran, one fleeing, one in chase.
+Valiant was he who fled, but valiant far
+Beyond him he who urged the swift pursuit;
+Nor ran they for a vulgar prize, a beast185
+For sacrifice, or for the hide of such,
+The swift foot-racer’s customary meed,
+But for the noble Hector’s life they ran.
+As when two steeds, oft conquerors, trim the goal
+For some illustrious prize, a tripod bright190
+Or beauteous virgin, at a funeral game,
+So they with nimble feet the city thrice
+Of Priam compass’d. All the Gods look’d on,
+And thus the Sire of Gods and men began.
+  Ah—I behold a warrior dear to me195
+Around the walls of Ilium driven, and grieve
+For Hector, who the thighs of fatted bulls
+On yonder heights of Ida many-valed
+Burn’d oft to me, and in the heights of Troy:[9]
+But him Achilles, glorious Chief, around200
+The city walls of Priam now pursues.
+Consider this, ye Gods! weigh the event.
+Shall we from death save Hector? or, at length,
+Leave him, although in battle high renown’d,
+To perish by the might of Peleus’ son?205
+  Whom answer’d thus Pallas cerulean-eyed.
+Dread Sovereign of the storms! what hast thou said?
+Wouldst thou deliver from the stroke of fate
+A mortal man death-destined from of old?
+Do it; but small thy praise shall be in heaven.210
+  Then answer thus, cloud-gatherer Jove return’d.
+Fear not, Tritonia, daughter dear! that word
+Spake not my purpose; me thou shalt perceive
+Always to thee indulgent. What thou wilt
+That execute, and use thou no delay.215
+  So roused he Pallas of herself prepared,
+And from the heights Olympian down she flew.
+With unremitting speed Achilles still
+Urged Hector. As among the mountain-height
+The hound pursues, roused newly from her lair220
+The flying fawn through many a vale and grove;
+And though she trembling skulk the shrubs beneath,
+Tracks her continual, till he find the prey,
+So ’scaped not Hector Peleus’ rapid son.
+Oft as toward the Dardan gates he sprang225
+Direct, and to the bulwarks firm of Troy,
+Hoping some aid by volleys from the wall,
+So oft, outstripping him, Achilles thence
+Enforced him to the field, who, as he might,
+Still ever stretch’d toward the walls again.230
+As, in a dream,[10] pursuit hesitates oft,
+This hath no power to fly, that to pursue,
+So these—one fled, and one pursued in vain.
+How, then, had Hector his impending fate
+Eluded, had not Phœbus, at his last,235
+Last effort meeting him, his strength restored,
+And wing’d for flight his agile limbs anew?
+The son of Peleus, as he ran, his brows
+Shaking, forbad the people to dismiss
+A dart at Hector, lest a meaner hand240
+Piercing him, should usurp the foremost praise.
+But when the fourth time to those rivulets.
+They came, then lifting high his golden scales,
+Two lots the everlasting Father placed
+Within them, for Achilles one, and one245
+For Hector, balancing the doom of both.
+Grasping it in the midst, he raised the beam.
+Down went the fatal day of Hector, down
+To Ades, and Apollo left his side.
+Then blue-eyed Pallas hasting to the son250
+Of Peleus, in wing’d accents him address’d.
+  Now, dear to Jove, Achilles famed in arms!
+I hope that, fierce in combat though he be,
+We shall, at last, slay Hector, and return
+Crown’d with great glory to the fleet of Greece.255
+No fear of his deliverance now remains,
+Not even should the King of radiant shafts,
+Apollo, toil in supplication, roll’d
+And roll’d again[11] before the Thunderer’s feet.
+But stand, recover breath; myself, the while,260
+Shall urge him to oppose thee face to face.
+  So Pallas spake, whom joyful he obey’d,
+And on his spear brass-pointed lean’d. But she,
+(Achilles left) to noble Hector pass’d,
+And in the form, and with the voice loud-toned265
+Approaching of Deiphobus, his ear
+In accents, as of pity, thus address’d.
+  Ah brother! thou art overtask’d, around
+The walls of Troy by swift Achilles driven;
+But stand, that we may chase him in his turn.[12]270
+  To whom crest-tossing Hector huge replied.
+Deiphobus! of all my father’s sons
+Brought forth by Hecuba, I ever loved
+Thee most, but more than ever love thee now,
+Who hast not fear’d, seeing me, for my sake275
+To quit the town, where others rest content.
+  To whom the Goddess, thus, cerulean-eyed.
+Brother! our parents with much earnest suit
+Clasping my knees, and all my friends implored me
+To stay in Troy, (such fear hath seized on all)280
+But grief for thee prey’d on my inmost soul.
+Come—fight we bravely—spare we now our spears
+No longer; now for proof if Peleus’ son
+Slaying us both, shall bear into the fleet
+Our arms gore-stain’d, or perish slain by thee.285
+  So saying, the wily Goddess led the way.
+They soon, approaching each the other, stood
+Opposite, and huge Hector thus began.
+  Pelides! I will fly thee now no more.
+Thrice I have compass’d Priam’s spacious walls290
+A fugitive, and have not dared abide
+Thy onset, but my heart now bids me stand
+Dauntless, and I will slay, or will be slain.
+But come. We will attest the Gods; for they
+Are fittest both to witness and to guard295
+Our covenant. If Jove to me vouchsafe
+The hard-earn’d victory, and to take thy life,
+I will not with dishonor foul insult
+Thy body, but, thine armor stripp’d, will give
+Thee to thy friends, as thou shalt me to mine.300
+  To whom Achilles, lowering dark, replied.
+Hector! my bitterest foe! speak not to me
+Of covenants! as concord can be none
+Lions and men between, nor wolves and lambs
+Can be unanimous, but hate perforce305
+Each other by a law not to be changed,
+So cannot amity subsist between
+Thee and myself; nor league make I with thee
+Or compact, till thy blood in battle shed
+Or mine, shall gratify the fiery Mars.310
+Rouse all thy virtue; thou hast utmost need
+Of valor now, and of address in arms.
+Escape me more thou canst not; Pallas’ hand
+By mine subdues thee; now will I avenge
+At once the agonies of every Greek315
+In thy unsparing fury slain by thee.
+  He said, and, brandishing the Pelian ash,
+Dismiss’d it; but illustrious Hector warn’d,
+Crouched low, and, overflying him, it pierced
+The soil beyond, whence Pallas plucking it320
+Unseen, restored it to Achilles’ hand,
+And Hector to his godlike foe replied.
+  Godlike Achilles! thou hast err’d, nor know’st
+At all my doom from Jove, as thou pretend’st,
+But seek’st, by subtlety and wind of words,325
+All empty sounds, to rob me of my might.
+Yet stand I firm. Think not to pierce my back.
+Behold my bosom! if the Gods permit,
+Meet me advancing, and transpierce me there.
+Meantime avoid my glittering spear, but oh330
+May’st thou receive it all! since lighter far
+To Ilium should the toils of battle prove,
+Wert thou once slain, the fiercest of her foes.
+  He said, and hurling his long spear with aim
+Unerring, smote the centre of the shield335
+Of Peleus’ son, but his spear glanced away.
+He, angry to have sent it forth in vain,
+(For he had other none) with eyes downcast
+Stood motionless awhile, then with loud voice
+Sought from Deiphobus, white-shielded Chief,340
+A second; but Deiphobus was gone.
+Then Hector understood his doom, and said.
+  Ah, it is plain; this is mine hour to die.
+I thought Deiphobus at hand, but me
+Pallas beguiled, and he is still in Troy.345
+A bitter death threatens me, it is nigh,
+And there is no escape; Jove, and Jove’s son
+Apollo, from the first, although awhile
+My prompt deliverers, chose this lot for me,
+And now it finds me. But I will not fall350
+Inglorious; I will act some great exploit
+That shall be celebrated ages hence.
+  So saying, his keen falchion from his side
+He drew, well-temper’d, ponderous, and rush’d
+At once to combat. As the eagle darts355
+Right downward through a sullen cloud to seize
+Weak lamb or timorous hare, so brandishing
+His splendid falchion, Hector rush’d to fight.
+Achilles, opposite, with fellest ire
+Full-fraught came on; his shield with various art360
+Celestial form’d, o’erspread his ample chest,
+And on his radiant casque terrific waved
+The bushy gold of his resplendent crest,
+By Vulcan spun, and pour’d profuse around.
+Bright as, among the stars, the star of all365
+Most radiant, Hesperus, at midnight moves,
+So, in the right hand of Achilles beam’d
+His brandish’d spear, while, meditating wo
+To Hector, he explored his noble form,
+Seeking where he was vulnerable most.370
+But every part, his dazzling armor torn
+From brave Patroclus’ body, well secured,
+Save where the circling key-bone from the neck
+Disjoins the shoulder; there his throat appear’d,
+Whence injured life with swiftest flight escapes;375
+Achilles, plunging in that part his spear,
+Impell’d it through the yielding flesh beyond.
+The ashen beam his power of utterance left
+Still unimpair’d, but in the dust he fell,
+And the exulting conqueror exclaim’d.380
+  But Hector! thou hadst once far other hopes,
+And, stripping slain Patroclus, thought’st thee safe,
+Nor caredst for absent me. Fond dream and vain!
+I was not distant far; in yonder fleet
+He left one able to avenge his death,385
+And he hath slain thee. Thee the dogs shall rend
+Dishonorably, and the fowls of air,
+But all Achaia’s host shall him entomb.
+  To whom the Trojan Chief languid replied.
+By thy own life, by theirs who gave thee birth,390
+And by thy knees,[13] oh let not Grecian dogs
+Rend and devour me, but in gold accept
+And brass a ransom at my father’s hands,
+And at my mother’s an illustrious price;
+Send home my body, grant me burial rites395
+Among the daughters and the sons of Troy.
+  To whom with aspect stern Achilles thus.
+Dog! neither knees nor parents name to me.
+I would my fierceness of revenge were such,
+That I could carve and eat thee, to whose arms400
+Such griefs I owe; so true it is and sure,
+That none shall save thy carcase from the dogs.
+No, trust me, would thy parents bring me weigh’d
+Ten—twenty ransoms, and engage on oath
+To add still more; would thy Dardanian Sire405
+Priam, redeem thee with thy weight in gold,
+Not even at that price would I consent
+That she who bare should place thee on thy bier
+With lamentation; dogs and ravening fowls
+Shall rend thy body while a scrap remains.410
+  Then, dying, warlike Hector thus replied.
+Full well I knew before, how suit of mine
+Should speed preferr’d to thee. Thy heart is steel.
+But oh, while yet thou livest, think, lest the Gods
+Requite thee on that day, when pierced thyself415
+By Paris and Apollo, thou shalt fall,
+Brave as thou art, before the Scæan gate.
+  He ceased, and death involved him dark around.
+His spirit, from his limbs dismiss’d, the house
+Of Ades sought, mourning in her descent420
+Youth’s prime and vigor lost, disastrous doom!
+But him though dead, Achilles thus bespake.
+  Die thou. My death shall find me at what hour
+Jove gives commandment, and the Gods above.
+  He spake, and from the dead drawing away425
+His brazen spear, placed it apart, then stripp’d
+His arms gore-stain’d. Meantime the other sons
+Of the Achaians, gathering fast around,
+The bulk admired, and the proportion just
+Of Hector; neither stood a Grecian there430
+Who pierced him not, and thus the soldier spake.
+  Ye Gods! how far more patient of the touch
+Is Hector now, than when he fired the fleet!
+  Thus would they speak, then give him each a stab.
+And now, the body stripp’d, their noble Chief435
+The swift Achilles standing in the midst,
+The Grecians in wing’d accents thus address’d.
+  Friends, Chiefs and Senators of Argos’ host!
+Since, by the will of heaven, this man is slain
+Who harm’d us more than all our foes beside,440
+Essay we next the city, so to learn
+The Trojan purpose, whether (Hector slain)
+They will forsake the citadel, or still
+Defend it, even though of him deprived.
+But wherefore speak I thus? still undeplored,445
+Unburied in my fleet Patroclus lies;
+Him never, while alive myself, I mix
+With living men and move, will I forget.
+In Ades, haply, they forget the dead,
+Yet will not I Patroclus, even there.450
+Now chanting pæans, ye Achaian youths!
+Return we to the fleet with this our prize;
+We have achieved great glory,[14] we have slain
+Illustrious Hector, him whom Ilium praised
+In all her gates, and as a God revered.455
+  He said; then purposing dishonor foul
+To noble Hector, both his feet he bored
+From heel to ancle, and, inserting thongs,
+Them tied behind his chariot, but his head
+Left unsustain’d to trail along the ground.460
+Ascending next, the armor at his side
+He placed, then lash’d the steeds; they willing flew
+Thick dust around the body dragg’d arose,
+His sable locks all swept the plain, and all
+His head, so graceful once, now track’d the dust,465
+For Jove had given it into hostile hands
+That they might shame it in his native soil.[15]
+Thus, whelm’d in dust, it went. The mother Queen
+Her son beholding, pluck’d her hair away,
+Cast far aside her lucid veil, and fill’d470
+With shrieks the air. His father wept aloud,
+And, all around, long, long complaints were heard
+And lamentations in the streets of Troy,
+Not fewer or less piercing, than if flames
+Had wrapt all Ilium to her topmost towers.475
+His people scarce detain’d the ancient King
+Grief-stung, and resolute to issue forth
+Through the Dardanian gates; to all he kneel’d
+In turn, then roll’d himself in dust, and each
+By name solicited to give him way.480
+  Stand off, my fellow mourners! I would pass
+The gates, would seek, alone, the Grecian fleet.
+I go to supplicate the bloody man,
+Yon ravager; he may respect, perchance,
+My years, may feel some pity of my age;485
+For, such as I am, his own father is,
+Peleus, who rear’d him for a curse to Troy,
+But chiefly rear’d him to myself a curse,
+So numerous have my sons in prime of youth
+Fall’n by his hand, all whom I less deplore490
+(Though mourning all) than one; my agonies
+For Hector soon shall send me to the shades.
+Oh had he but within these arms expired,
+The hapless Queen who bore him, and myself
+Had wept him, then, till sorrow could no more!495
+  So spake he weeping, and the citizens
+All sigh’d around; next, Hecuba began
+Amid the women, thus, her sad complaint.
+  Ah wherefore, oh my son! wretch that I am,
+Breathe I forlorn of thee? Thou, night and day,500
+My glory wast in Ilium, thee her sons
+And daughters, both, hail’d as their guardian God,
+Conscious of benefits from thee received,
+Whose life prolong’d should have advanced them all
+To high renown. Vain boast! thou art no more.505
+  So mourn’d the Queen. But fair Andromache
+Nought yet had heard, nor knew by sure report
+Hector’s delay without the city gates.
+She in a closet of her palace sat,
+A twofold web weaving magnificent,510
+With sprinkled flowers inwrought of various hues,
+And to her maidens had commandment given
+Through all her house, that compassing with fire
+An ample tripod, they should warm a bath
+For noble Hector from the fight return’d.515
+Tenderness ill-inform’d! she little knew
+That in the field, from such refreshments far,
+Pallas had slain him by Achilles’ hand.
+She heard a cry of sorrow from the tower;
+Her limbs shook under her, her shuttle fell,520
+And to her bright-hair’d train, alarm’d, she cried.
+  Attend me two of you, that I may learn
+What hath befallen. I have heard the voice
+Of the Queen-mother; my rebounding heart
+Chokes me, and I seem fetter’d by a frost.525
+Some mischief sure o’er Priam’s sons impends.
+Far be such tidings from me! but I fear
+Horribly, lest Achilles, cutting off
+My dauntless Hector from the gates alone,
+Enforce him to the field, and quell perhaps530
+The might, this moment, of that dreadful arm
+His hinderance long; for Hector ne’er was wont
+To seek his safety in the ranks, but flew
+First into battle, yielding place to none.
+  So saying, she rush’d with palpitating heart535
+And frantic air abroad, by her two maids
+Attended; soon arriving at the tower,
+And at the throng of men, awhile she stood
+Down-looking wistful from the city-wall,
+And, seeing him in front of Ilium, dragg’d540
+So cruelly toward the fleet of Greece,
+O’erwhelm’d with sudden darkness at the view
+Fell backward, with a sigh heard all around.
+Far distant flew dispersed her head-attire,
+Twist, frontlet, diadem, and even the veil545
+By golden Venus given her on the day
+When Hector led her from Eëtion’s house
+Enrich’d with nuptial presents to his home.
+Around her throng’d her sisters of the house
+Of Priam, numerous, who within their arms550
+Fast held her[16] loathing life; but she, her breath
+At length and sense recovering, her complaint
+Broken with sighs amid them thus began.
+  Hector! I am undone; we both were born
+To misery, thou in Priam’s house in Troy,555
+And I in Hypoplacian Thebes wood-crown’d
+Beneath Eëtion’s roof. He, doom’d himself
+To sorrow, me more sorrowfully doom’d,
+Sustain’d in helpless infancy, whom oh
+That he had ne’er begotten! thou descend’st560
+To Pluto’s subterraneous dwelling drear,
+Leaving myself destitute, and thy boy,
+Fruit of our hapless loves, an infant yet,
+Never to be hereafter thy delight,
+Nor love of thine to share or kindness more.565
+For should he safe survive this cruel war,
+With the Achaians penury and toil
+Must be his lot, since strangers will remove
+At will his landmarks, and possess his fields.
+Thee lost, he loses all, of father, both,570
+And equal playmate in one day deprived,
+To sad looks doom’d, and never-ceasing-tears.
+He seeks, necessitous his father’s friends,
+One by his mantle pulls, one by his vest,
+Whose utmost pity yields to his parch’d lips575
+A thirst-provoking drop, and grudges more;
+Some happier child, as yet untaught to mourn
+A parent’s loss, shoves rudely from the board
+My son, and, smiting him, reproachful cries—
+Away—thy father is no guest of ours—580
+Then, weeping, to his widow’d mother comes
+Astyanax, who on his father’s lap
+Ate marrow only, once, and fat of lambs,[17]
+And when sleep took him, and his crying fit
+Had ceased, slept ever on the softest bed,585
+Warm in his nurse’s arms, fed to his fill
+With delicacies, and his heart at rest.
+But now, Astyanax (so named in Troy
+For thy sake, guardian of her gates and towers)
+His father lost, must many a pang endure.590
+And as for thee, cast naked forth among
+Yon galleys, where no parent’s eye of thine
+Shall find thee, when the dogs have torn thee once
+Till they are sated, worms shall eat thee next.
+Meantime, thy graceful raiment rich, prepared595
+By our own maidens, in thy palace lies;
+But I will burn it, burn it all, because
+Useless to thee, who never, so adorn’d,
+Shalt slumber more; yet every eye in Troy
+Shall see, how glorious once was thy attire.[18]600
+  So, weeping, she; to whom the multitude
+Of Trojan dames responsive sigh’d around.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XXIII.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWENTY-THIRD BOOK.
+
+The body of Patroclus is burned, and the funeral games ensue.
+
+
+BOOK XXIII.
+
+
+Such mourning was in Troy; meantime the Greeks
+Their galleys and the shores of Hellespont
+Regaining, each to his own ship retired.
+But not the Myrmidons; Achilles them
+Close rank’d in martial order still detain’d,5
+And thus his fellow-warriors brave address’d.
+  Ye swift-horsed Myrmidons, associates dear!
+Release not from your chariots yet your steeds
+Firm-hoof’d, but steeds and chariots driving near,
+Bewail Patroclus, as the rites demand10
+Of burial; then, satiate with grief and tears,
+We will release our steeds, and take repast.
+  He ended, and, himself leading the way,
+His numerous band all mourn’d at once the dead.
+Around the body thrice their glossy steeds,15
+Mourning they drove, while Thetis in their hearts
+The thirst of sorrow kindled; they with tears
+The sands bedew’d, with tears their radiant arms,
+Such deep regret of one so brave they felt.
+Then, placing on the bosom of his friend20
+His homicidal hands, Achilles thus
+The shade of his Patroclus, sad, bespake.
+  Hail, oh Patroclus, even in Ades hail!
+For I will now accomplish to the full
+My promise pledged to thee, that I would give25
+Hector dragg’d hither to be torn by dogs
+Piecemeal, and would before thy funeral pile
+The necks dissever of twelve Trojan youths
+Of noblest rank, resentful of thy death.
+  He said, and meditating foul disgrace30
+To noble Hector, stretch’d him prone in dust
+Beside the bier of Menœtiades.
+Then all the Myrmidons their radiant arms
+Put off, and their shrill-neighing steeds released.
+A numerous band beside the bark they sat35
+Of swift Æacides, who furnish’d forth
+Himself a feast funereal for them all.
+Many a white ox under the ruthless steel
+Lay bleeding, many a sheep and blatant goat,
+With many a saginated boar bright-tusk’d,40
+Amid fierce flames Vulcanian stretch’d to roast.
+Copious the blood ran all around the dead.
+  And now the Kings of Greece conducted thence
+To Agamemnon’s tent the royal son
+Of Peleus, loth to go, and won at last45
+With difficulty, such his anger was
+And deep resentment of his slaughter’d friend.
+Soon then as Agamemnon’s tent they reach’d,
+The sovereign bade his heralds kindle fire
+Around an ample vase, with purpose kind50
+Moving Achilles from his limbs to cleanse
+The stains of battle; but he firm refused
+That suit, and bound refusal with an oath—
+  No; by the highest and the best of all,
+By Jove I will not. Never may it be55
+That brazen bath approach this head of mine,
+Till I shall first Patroclus’ body give
+To his last fires, till I shall pile his tomb,
+And sheer my locks in honor of my friend;
+For, like to this, no second wo shall e’er60
+My heart invade, while vital breath I draw.
+But, all unwelcome as it is, repast
+Now calls us. Agamemnon, King of men!
+Give thou command that at the dawn they bring
+Wood hither, such large portion as beseems65
+The dead, descending to the shades, to share,
+That hungry flames consuming out of sight
+His body soon, the host may war again.
+  He spake; they, hearing, readily obey’d.
+Then, each his food preparing with dispatch,70
+They ate, nor wanted any of the guests
+Due portion, and their appetites sufficed
+To food and wine, all to their tents repair’d
+Seeking repose; but on the sands beside
+The billowy deep Achilles groaning lay75
+Amidst his Myrmidons, where space he found
+With blood unstain’d beside the dashing wave.[1]
+There, soon as sleep, deliverer of the mind,
+Wrapp’d him around (for much his noble limbs
+With chase of Hector round the battlements80
+Of wind-swept Ilium wearied were and spent)
+The soul came to him of his hapless friend,
+In bulk resembling, in expressive eyes
+And voice Patroclus, and so clad as he.
+Him, hovering o’er his head, the form address’d.85
+  Sleep’st thou, Achilles! of thy friend become
+Heedless? Him living thou didst not neglect
+Whom thou neglectest dead. Give me a tomb
+Instant, that I may pass the infernal gates.
+For now, the shades and spirits of the dead90
+Drive me afar, denying me my wish
+To mingle with them on the farthest shore,
+And in wide-portal’d Ades sole I roam.
+Give me thine hand, I pray thee, for the earth
+I visit never more, once burnt with fire;95
+We never shall again close council hold
+As we were wont, for me my fate severe,
+Mine even from my birth, hath deep absorb’d.
+And oh Achilles, semblance of the Gods!
+Thou too predestined art beneath the wall100
+To perish of the high-born Trojan race.
+But hear my last injunction! ah, my friend!
+My bones sepulchre not from thine apart,
+But as, together we were nourish’d both
+Beneath thy roof (what time from Opoëis105
+Menœtius led me to thy father’s house,
+Although a child, yet fugitive for blood,
+Which, in a quarrel at the dice, I spilt,
+Killing my playmate by a casual blow,
+The offspring of Amphidamas, when, like110
+A father, Peleus with all tenderness
+Received and cherish’d me, and call’d me thine)
+So, let one vase inclose, at last, our bones,
+The golden vase, thy Goddess mother’s gift.[2]
+  To whom Achilles, matchless in the race.115
+Ah, loved and honor’d! wherefore hast thou come!
+Why thus enjoin’d me? I will all perform
+With diligence that thou hast now desired.
+But nearer stand, that we may mutual clasp
+Each other, though but with a short embrace,120
+And sad satiety of grief enjoy.
+  He said, and stretch’d his arms toward the shade,
+But him seized not; shrill-clamoring and light
+As smoke, the spirit pass’d into the earth.
+Amazed, upsprang Achilles, clash’d aloud125
+His palms together, and thus, sad, exclaim’d.
+  Ah then, ye Gods! there doubtless are below
+The soul and semblance both, but empty forms;
+For all night long, mourning, disconsolate,
+The soul of my Patroclus, hapless friend!130
+Hath hover’d o’er me, giving me in charge
+His last requests, just image of himself.
+  So saying, he call’d anew their sorrow forth,
+And rosy-palm’d Aurora found them all
+Mourning afresh the pitiable dead.135
+Then royal Agamemnon call’d abroad
+Mules and mule-drivers from the tents in haste
+To gather wood. Uprose a valiant man,
+Friend of the virtuous Chief Idomeneus,
+Meriones, who led them to the task.140
+They, bearing each in hand his sharpen’d axe
+And twisted cord, thence journey’d forth, the mules
+Driving before them; much uneven space
+They measured, hill and dale, right onward now,
+And now circuitous; but at the groves145
+Arrived at length, of Ida fountain-fed,
+Their keen-edged axes to the towering oaks
+Dispatchful they applied; down fell the trees
+With crash sonorous. Splitting, next, the trunks,
+They bound them on the mules; they, with firm hoofs150
+The hill-side stamping, through the thickets rush’d
+Desirous of the plain. Each man his log
+(For so the armor-bearer of the King
+Of Crete, Meriones, had them enjoin’d)
+Bore after them, and each his burthen cast155
+Down on the beach regular, where a tomb
+Of ample size Achilles for his friend
+Patroclus had, and for himself, design’d.
+  Much fuel thrown together, side by side
+There down they sat, and his command at once160
+Achilles issued to his warriors bold,
+That all should gird their armor, and the steeds
+Join to their chariots; undelaying each
+Complied, and in bright arms stood soon array’d.
+Then mounted combatants and charioteers.165
+First, moved the chariots, next, the infantry
+Proceeded numerous, amid whom his friends,
+Bearing the body of Patroclus, went.
+They poll’d their heads, and cover’d him with hair
+Shower’d over all his body, while behind170
+Noble Achilles march’d, the hero’s head
+Sustaining sorrowful, for to the realms
+Of Ades a distinguish’d friend he sent.
+  And now, arriving on the ground erewhile
+Mark’d by Achilles, setting down the dead,175
+They heap’d the fuel quick, a lofty pile.[3]
+But Peleus’ son, on other thoughts intent,
+Retiring from the funeral pile, shore off
+His amber ringlets,[4] whose exuberant growth
+Sacred to Sperchius he had kept unshorn,180
+And looking o’er the gloomy deep, he said.
+  Sperchius! in vain Peleus my father vow’d
+That, hence returning to my native land,
+These ringlets shorn I should present to thee[5]
+With a whole hecatomb, and should, beside,185
+Rams offer fifty at thy fountain head
+In thy own field, at thy own fragrant shrine.
+So vow’d the hoary Chief, whose wishes thou
+Leavest unperform’d. Since, therefore, never more
+I see my native home, the hero these190
+Patroclus takes down with him to the shades.
+  He said, and filling with his hair the hand
+Of his dead friend, the sorrows of his train
+Waken’d afresh. And now the lamp of day
+Westering[6] apace, had left them still in tears,195
+Had not Achilles suddenly address’d
+King Agamemnon, standing at his side.
+  Atrides! (for Achaia’s sons thy word
+Will readiest execute) we may with grief
+Satiate ourselves hereafter; but, the host200
+Dispersing from the pile, now give command
+That they prepare repast; ourselves,[7] to whom
+These labors in peculiar appertain
+Will finish them; but bid the Chiefs abide.
+  Which when imperial Agamemnon heard,205
+He scatter’d instant to their several ships
+The people; but the burial-dressers thence
+Went not; they, still abiding, heap’d the pile.
+A hundred feet of breadth from side to side
+They gave to it, and on the summit placed210
+With sorrowing hearts the body of the dead.
+Many a fat sheep, with many an ox full-horn’d
+They flay’d before the pile, busy their task
+Administering, and Peleus’ son the fat
+Taking from every victim, overspread215
+Complete the body with it of his friend[8]
+Patroclus, and the flay’d beasts heap’d around.
+Then, placing flagons on the pile, replete
+With oil and honey, he inclined their mouths
+Toward the bier, and slew and added next,220
+Deep-groaning and in haste, four martial steeds.
+Nine dogs the hero at his table fed,
+Of which beheading two, their carcases
+He added also. Last, twelve gallant sons
+Of noble Trojans slaying (for his heart225
+Teem’d with great vengeance) he applied the force
+Of hungry flames that should devour the whole,
+Then, mourning loud, by name his friend invoked.
+  Rejoice, Patroclus! even in the shades,
+Behold my promise to thee all fulfill’d!230
+Twelve gallant sons of Trojans famed in arms,
+Together with thyself, are all become
+Food for these fires: but fire shall never feed
+On Hector; him I destine to the dogs.
+  So threaten’d he; but him no dogs devour’d;235
+Them, day and night, Jove’s daughter Venus chased
+Afar, and smooth’d the hero o’er with oils
+Of rosy scent ambrosial, lest his corse,
+Behind Achilles’ chariot dragg’d along
+So rudely, should be torn; and Phœbus hung240
+A veil of sable clouds from heaven to earth,
+O’ershadowing broad the space where Hector lay,
+Lest parching suns intense should stiffen him.
+  But the pile kindled not. Then, Peleus’ son
+Seeking a place apart, two Winds in prayer245
+Boreas invoked and Zephyrus, to each
+Vowing large sacrifice. With earnest suit
+(Libation pouring from a golden cup)
+Their coming he implored, that so the flames
+Kindling, incontinent might burn the dead.250
+Iris, his supplications hearing, swift
+Convey’d them to the Winds; they, in the hall
+Banqueting of the heavy-blowing West
+Sat frequent. Iris, sudden at the gate
+Appear’d; they, at the sight upstarting all,255
+Invited each the Goddess to himself.
+But she refused a seat and thus she spake.[9]
+  I sit not here. Borne over Ocean’s stream
+Again, to Æthiopia’s land I go
+Where hecatombs are offer’d to the Gods,260
+Which, with the rest, I also wish to share.
+But Peleus’ son, earnest, the aid implores
+Of Boreas and of Zephyrus the loud,
+Vowing large sacrifice if ye will fan
+Briskly the pile on which Patroclus lies265
+By all Achaia’s warriors deep deplored.
+  She said, and went. Then suddenly arose
+The Winds, and, roaring, swept the clouds along.
+First, on the sea they blew; big rose the waves
+Beneath the blast. At fruitful Troy arrived270
+Vehement on the pile they fell, and dread
+On all sides soon a crackling blaze ensued.
+All night, together blowing shrill, they drove
+The sheeted flames wide from the funeral pile,
+And all night long, a goblet in his hand275
+From golden beakers fill’d, Achilles stood
+With large libations soaking deep the soil,
+And calling on the spirit of his friend.
+As some fond father mourns, burning the bones
+Of his own son, who, dying on the eve280
+Of his glad nuptials, hath his parents left
+O’erwhelm’d with inconsolable distress,
+So mourn’d Achilles, his companion’s bones
+Burning, and pacing to and fro the field
+Beside the pile with many a sigh profound.285
+But when the star, day’s harbinger, arose,
+Soon after whom, in saffron vest attired
+The morn her beams diffuses o’er the sea,
+The pile, then wasted, ceased to flame, and then
+Back flew the Winds over the Thracian deep290
+Rolling the flood before them as they pass’d.
+And now Pelides lying down apart
+From the funereal pile, slept, but not long,
+Though weary; waken’d by the stir and din
+Of Agamemnon’s train. He sat erect,295
+And thus the leaders of the host address’d.
+  Atrides, and ye potentates who rule
+The whole Achaian host! first quench the pile
+Throughout with generous wine, where’er the fire
+Hath seized it. We will then the bones collect300
+Of Menœtiades, which shall with ease
+Be known, though many bones lie scatter’d near,
+Since in the middle pile Patroclus lay,
+But wide apart and on its verge we burn’d
+The steeds and Trojans, a promiscuous heap.305
+Them so collected in a golden vase
+We will dispose, lined with a double cawl,
+Till I shall, also, to my home below.
+I wish not now a tomb of amplest bounds,
+But such as may suffice, which yet in height310
+The Grecians and in breadth shall much augment
+Hereafter, who, survivors of my fate,
+Shall still remain in the Achaian fleet.
+  So spake Pelides, and the Chiefs complied.
+Where’er the pile had blazed, with generous wine315
+They quench’d it, and the hills of ashes sank.
+Then, weeping, to a golden vase, with lard
+Twice lined, they gave their gentle comrade’s bones
+Fire-bleach’d, and lodging safely in his tent
+The relics, overspread them with a veil.320
+Designing, next, the compass of the tomb,
+They mark’d its boundary with stones, then fill’d
+The wide enclosure hastily with earth,
+And, having heap’d it to its height, return’d.
+But all the people, by Achilles still325
+Detain’d, there sitting, form’d a spacious ring,
+And he the destined prizes from his fleet
+Produced, capacious caldrons, tripods bright,
+Steeds, mules, tall oxen, women at the breast
+Close-cinctured, elegant, and unwrought[10] iron.330
+First, to the chariot-drivers he proposed
+A noble prize; a beauteous maiden versed
+In arts domestic, with a tripod ear’d,
+Of twenty and two measures. These he made
+The conqueror’s meed. The second should a mare335
+Obtain, unbroken yet, six years her age,
+Pregnant, and bearing in her womb a mule.
+A caldron of four measures, never smirch’d
+By smoke or flame, but fresh as from the forge
+The third awaited; to the fourth he gave340
+Two golden talents, and, unsullied yet
+By use, a twin-ear’d phial[11] to the fifth.
+He stood erect, and to the Greeks he cried.
+
+  Atrides, and ye chiefs of all the host!
+These prizes, in the circus placed, attend345
+The charioteers. Held we the present games
+In honor of some other Grecian dead,
+I would myself bear hence the foremost prize;
+For ye are all witnesses well-inform’d
+Of the superior virtue of my steeds.350
+They are immortal; Neptune on my sire
+Peleus conferr’d them, and my sire on me.
+But neither I this contest share myself,
+Nor shall my steeds; for they would miss the force
+And guidance of a charioteer so kind355
+As they have lost, who many a time hath cleansed
+Their manes with water of the crystal brook,
+And made them sleek, himself, with limpid oil.
+Him, therefore, mourning, motionless they stand
+With hair dishevell’d, streaming to the ground.360
+But ye, whoever of the host profess
+Superior skill, and glory in your steeds
+And well-built chariots, for the strife prepare!
+  So spake Pelides, and the charioteers,
+For speed renown’d arose. Long ere the rest365
+Eumelus, King of men, Admetus’ son
+Arose, accomplish’d in equestrian arts.
+Next, Tydeus’ son, brave Diomede, arose;
+He yoked the Trojan coursers by himself
+In battle from Æneas won, what time370
+Apollo saved their master. Third, upstood
+The son of Atreus with the golden locks,
+Who to his chariot Agamemnon’s mare
+Swift Æthe and his own Podargus join’d.
+Her Echepolus from Anchises sprung375
+To Agamemnon gave; she was the price
+At which he purchased leave to dwell at home
+Excused attendance on the King at Troy;
+For, by the gift of Jove, he had acquired
+Great riches, and in wide-spread Sicyon dwelt.380
+Her wing’d with ardor, Menelaus yoked.
+Antilochus, arising fourth, his steeds
+Bright-maned prepared, son of the valiant King
+Of Pylus, Nestor Neleïades.
+Of Pylian breed were they, and thus his sire,385
+With kind intent approaching to his side,
+Advised him, of himself not uninform’d.[12]
+  Antilochus! Thou art, I know, beloved
+By Jove and Neptune both, from whom, though young
+Thou hast received knowledge of every art390
+Equestrian, and hast little need to learn.
+Thou know’st already how to trim the goal
+With nicest skill, yet wondrous slow of foot
+Thy coursers are, whence evil may ensue.
+But though their steeds be swifter, I account395
+Thee wise, at least, as they. Now is the time
+For counsel, furnish now thy mind with all
+Precaution, that the prize escape thee not.
+The feller of huge trees by skill prevails
+More than by strength; by skill the pilot guides400
+His flying bark rock’d by tempestuous winds,
+And more by skill than speed the race is won.
+But he who in his chariot and his steeds
+Trusts only, wanders here and wanders there
+Unsteady, while his coursers loosely rein’d405
+Roam wide the field; not so the charioteer
+Of sound intelligence; he though he drive
+Inferior steeds, looks ever to the goal
+Which close he clips, not ignorant to check
+His coursers at the first but with tight rein410
+Ruling his own, and watching those before.
+Now mark; I will describe so plain the goal
+That thou shalt know it surely. A dry stump
+Extant above the ground an ell in height
+Stands yonder; either oak it is, or pine415
+More likely, which the weather least impairs.
+Two stones, both white, flank it on either hand.
+The way is narrow there, but smooth the course
+On both sides. It is either, as I think,
+A monument of one long since deceased,420
+Or was, perchance, in ancient days design’d,
+As now by Peleus’ mighty son, a goal.
+That mark in view, thy steeds and chariot push
+Near to it as thou may’st; then, in thy seat
+Inclining gently to the left, prick smart425
+Thy right-hand horse challenging him aloud,
+And give him rein; but let thy left-hand horse
+Bear on the goal so closely, that the nave
+And felly[13] of thy wheel may seem to meet.
+Yet fear to strike the stone, lest foul disgrace430
+Of broken chariot and of crippled steeds
+Ensue, and thou become the public jest.
+My boy beloved! use caution; for if once
+Thou turn the goal at speed, no man thenceforth
+Shall reach, or if he reach, shall pass thee by,435
+Although Arion in thy rear he drove
+Adrastus’ rapid horse of race divine,
+Or those, Troy’s boast, bred by Laomedon.
+  So Nestor spake, inculcating with care
+On his son’s mind these lessons in the art,440
+And to his place retiring, sat again.
+Meriones his coursers glossy-maned
+Made ready last. Then to his chariot-seat
+Each mounted, and the lots were thrown; himself
+Achilles shook them. First, forth leap’d the lot445
+Of Nestor’s son Antilochus, after whom
+The King Eumelus took his destined place.
+The third was Menelaus spear-renown’d;
+Meriones the fourth; and last of all,
+Bravest of all, heroic Diomede450
+The son of Tydeus took his lot to drive.
+So ranged they stood; Achilles show’d the goal
+Far on the champain, nigh to which he placed
+The godlike Phœnix servant of his sire,
+To mark the race and make a true report.455
+  All raised the lash at once, and with the reins
+At once all smote their steeds, urging them on
+Vociferous; they, sudden, left the fleet
+Far, far behind them, scouring swift the plain.
+Dark, like a stormy cloud, uprose the dust460
+Their chests beneath, and scatter’d in the wind
+Their manes all floated; now the chariots swept
+The low declivity unseen, and now
+Emerging started into view; erect
+The drivers stood; emulous, every heart465
+Beat double; each encouraged loud his steeds;
+They, flying, fill’d with dust the darken’d air.
+But when returning to the hoary deep
+They ran their last career, then each display’d
+Brightest his charioteership, and the race470
+Lay stretch’d, at once, into its utmost speed.
+Then, soon the mares of Pheretiades[14]
+Pass’d all, but Diomede behind him came,
+Borne by his unemasculated steeds
+Of Trojan pedigree; they not remote,475
+But close pursued him; and at every pace
+Seem’d entering both; the chariot at their head,
+For blowing warm into Eumelus’ neck
+Behind, and on his shoulders broad, they went,
+And their chins rested on him as they flew.480
+Then had Tydides pass’d him, or had made
+Decision dubious, but Apollo struck,
+Resentful,[15] from his hand the glittering scourge.
+Fast roll’d the tears indignant down his cheeks,
+For he beheld the mares with double speed,485
+Flying, and of the spur deprived, his own
+Retarded steeds continual thrown behind.
+But not unnoticed by Minerva pass’d
+The art by Phœbus practised to impede
+The son of Tydeus, whom with winged haste490
+Following, she gave to him his scourge again,
+And with new force his lagging steeds inspired.
+Eumelus, next, the angry Goddess, swift
+Pursuing, snapt his yoke; wide flew the mares
+Asunder, and the pole fell to the ground.495
+Himself, roll’d from his seat, fast by the wheel
+With lacerated elbows, nostrils, mouth,
+And batter’d brows lay prone; sorrow his eyes
+Deluged, and disappointment chok’d his voice.
+Then, far outstripping all, Tydides push’d500
+His steeds beyond, which Pallas fill’d with power
+That she might make the glorious prize his own.
+Him follow’d Menelaus amber-hair’d,
+The son of Atreus, and his father’s steeds
+Encouraging, thus spake Antilochus.505
+  Away—now stretch ye forward to the goal.
+I bid you not to an unequal strife
+With those of Diomede, for Pallas them
+Quickens that he may conquer, and the Chief
+So far advanced makes competition vain.510
+But reach the son of Atreus, fly to reach
+His steeds, incontinent; ah, be not shamed
+For ever, foil’d by Æthe, by a mare!
+Why fall ye thus behind, my noblest steeds?
+I tell you both, and ye shall prove me true,515
+No favor shall ye find at Nestor’s hands,
+My valiant sire, but he will thrust his spear
+Right through you, should we lose, for sloth of yours,
+Or by your negligence, the nobler prize.
+Haste then—pursue him—reach the royal Chief—520
+And how to pass him in yon narrow way
+Shall be my care, and not my care in vain.
+  He ended; they, awhile, awed by his voice,
+With more exertion ran, and Nestor’s son
+Now saw the hollow strait mark’d by his sire.525
+It was a chasm abrupt, where winter-floods,
+Wearing the soil, had gullied deep the way.
+Thither Atrides, anxious to avoid
+A clash of chariots drove, and thither drove
+Also, but somewhat devious from his track,530
+Antilochus. Then Menelaus fear’d,
+And with loud voice the son of Nestor hail’d.
+  Antilochus, at what a madman’s rate
+Drivest thou! stop—check thy steeds—the way is here
+Too strait, but widening soon, will give thee scope535
+To pass me by; beware, lest chariot close
+To chariot driven, thou maim thyself and me.
+  He said; but still more rapid and the scourge
+Plying continual, as he had not heard,
+Antilochus came on. Far as the quoit540
+By some broad-shoulder’d youth for trial hurl’d
+Of manhood flies, so far Antilochus
+Shot forward; but the coursers fell behind
+Of Atreus’ son, who now abated much
+By choice his driving, lest the steeds of both545
+Jostling, should overturn with sudden shock
+Both chariots, and themselves in dust be roll’d,
+Through hot ambition of the foremost prize.
+Him then the hero golden-hair’d reproved.
+  Antilochus! the man lives not on earth550
+Like thee for love of mischief. Go, extoll’d
+For wisdom falsely by the sons of Greece.
+Yet, trust me, not without an oath, the prize
+Thus foully sought shall even now be thine.
+  He said, and to his coursers call’d aloud.555
+Ah be not tardy; stand not sorrow-check’d;
+Their feet will fail them sooner far than yours,
+For years have pass’d since they had youth to boast.
+  So he; and springing at his voice, his steeds
+Regain’d apace the vantage lost. Meantime560
+The Grecians, in full circus seated, mark’d
+The steeds; they flying, fill’d with dust the air.
+Then, ere the rest, Idomeneus discern’d
+The foremost pair; for, on a rising ground
+Exalted, he without the circus sat,565
+And hearing, though remote, the driver’s voice
+Chiding his steeds, knew it, and knew beside
+The leader horse distinguish’d by his hue,
+Chestnut throughout, save that his forehead bore
+A splendid blazon white, round as the moon.570
+  He stood erect, and to the Greeks he cried.
+Friends! Chiefs and senators of Argos’ host!
+Discern I sole the steeds, or also ye?
+The horses, foremost now, to me appear
+Other than erst, and I descry at hand575
+A different charioteer; the mares of late
+Victorious, somewhere distant in the race
+Are hurt; I plainly saw them at the first
+Turning the goal, but see them now no more;
+And yet with eyes inquisitive I range580
+From side to side the whole broad plain of Troy.
+Either the charioteer hath slipp’d the reins,
+Or rounded not successfully the goal
+Through want of guidance. Thrown, as it should seem,
+Forth from his seat, he hath his chariot maim’d,585
+And his ungovern’d steeds have roam’d away.
+Arise and look ye forth yourselves, for I
+With doubtful ken behold him; yet the man
+Seems, in my view, Ætolian by descent,
+A Chief of prime renown in Argos’ host,590
+The hero Tydeus’ son, brave Diomede,
+  But Ajax Oïliades the swift
+Him sharp reproved. Why art thou always given
+To prate, Idomeneus? thou seest the mares,
+Remote indeed, but posting to the goal.595
+Thou art not youngest of the Argives here
+So much, nor from beneath thy brows look forth
+Quick-sighted more than ours, thine eyes abroad.
+Yet still thou pratest, although silence more
+Should suit thee, among wiser far than thou.600
+The mares which led, lead still, and he who drives
+Eumelus is, the same who drove before.
+  To whom the Cretan Chief, angry, replied.
+Ajax! whom none in wrangling can excel
+Or rudeness, though in all beside thou fall605
+Below the Argives, being boorish-rough,
+Come now—a tripod let us wager each,
+Or caldron, and let Agamemnon judge
+Whose horses lead, that, losing, thou may’st learn.
+  He said; then sudden from his seat upsprang610
+Swift Ajax Oïliades, prepared
+For harsh retort, nor had the contest ceased
+Between them, but had grown from ill to worse,
+Had not himself, Achilles, interposed.
+  Ajax—Idomeneus—abstain ye both615
+From bitter speech offensive, and such terms
+As ill become you. Ye would feel, yourselves,
+Resentment, should another act as ye.
+Survey the course, peaceable, from your seats;
+The charioteers, by competition wing’d,620
+Will soon themselves arrive, then shall ye know
+Distinctly, both who follows and who leads.
+  He scarce had said, when nigh at hand appear’d
+Tydides, lashing, as he came, his steeds
+Continual; they with hoofs uplifted high625
+Their yet remaining ground shorten’d apace,
+Sprinkling with dusty drops at every stroke
+Their charioteer, while close upon their heels
+Radiant with tin and gold the chariot ran,
+Scarce tracking light the dust, so swift they flew.630
+He stood in the mid-circus; there the sweat
+Rain’d under them from neck and chest profuse,
+And Diomede from his resplendent seat
+Leaping, reclined his scourge against the yoke.
+Nor was his friend brave Sthenelus remiss,635
+But, seizing with alacrity the prize,
+Consign’d the tripod and the virgin, first,
+To his own band in charge; then, loosed the steeds.
+Next came, by stratagem, not speed advanced
+To that distinction, Nestor’s son, whom yet640
+The hero Menelaus close pursued
+Near as the wheel runs to a courser’s heels,
+Drawing his master at full speed; his tail
+With its extremest hairs the felly sweeps
+That close attends him o’er the spacious plain,645
+So near had Menelaus now approach’d
+Antilochus; for though at first he fell
+A full quoit’s cast behind, he soon retrieved
+That loss, with such increasing speed the mare
+Bright-maned of Agamemnon, Æthe, ran;650
+She, had the course few paces more to both
+Afforded, should have clearly shot beyond
+Antilochus, nor dubious left the prize.
+But noble Menelaus threw behind
+Meriones, companion in the field,655
+Of King Idomeneus, a lance’s flight,
+For slowest were his steeds, and he, to rule
+The chariot in the race, least skill’d of all.
+Last came Eumelus drawing to the goal,
+Himself, his splendid chariot, and his mares660
+Driving before him. Peleus’ rapid son
+Beheld him with compassion, and, amid
+The Argives, in wing’d accents thus he spake.
+  Here comes the most expert, driving his steeds
+Before him. Just it were that he received665
+The second prize; Tydides claims the first.
+  He said, and all applauded the award.
+Then had Achilles to Eumelus given
+The mare (for such the pleasure seem’d of all)
+Had not the son of mighty Nestor risen,670
+Antilochus, who pleaded thus his right.
+  Achilles! acting as thou hast proposed,
+Thou shalt offend me much, for thou shalt take
+The prize from me, because the Gods, his steeds
+And chariot-yoke disabling, render’d vain675
+His efforts, and no failure of his own.
+It was his duty to have sought the Gods
+In prayer, then had he not, following on foot
+His coursers, hindmost of us all arrived.
+But if thou pity him, and deem it good,680
+Thou hast much gold, much brass, and many sheep
+In thy pavilion; thou hast maidens fair,
+And coursers also. Of thy proper stores
+Hereafter give to him a richer prize
+Than this, or give it now, so shall the Greeks685
+Applaud thee; but this mare yield I to none;
+Stand forth the Grecian who desires to win
+That recompense, and let him fight with me.
+  He ended, and Achilles, godlike Chief,
+Smiled on him, gratulating his success,690
+Whom much he loved; then, ardent, thus replied.
+  Antilochus! if thou wouldst wish me give
+Eumelus of my own, even so I will.
+I will present to him my corslet bright
+Won from Asteropæus, edged around695
+With glittering tin; a precious gift, and rare.
+  So saying, he bade Automedon his friend
+Produce it from the tent; he at his word
+Departing, to Achilles brought the spoil,
+Which at his hands Eumelus glad received.700
+Then, stung with grief, and with resentment fired
+Immeasurable, Menelaus rose
+To charge Antilochus. His herald gave
+The sceptre to his hand, and (silence bidden
+To all) the godlike hero thus began.705
+  Antilochus! oh heretofore discreet!
+What hast thou done? Thou hast dishonor’d foul
+My skill, and wrong’d my coursers, throwing thine,
+Although inferior far, by fraud before them.
+Ye Chiefs and Senators of Argos’ host!710
+Impartial judge between us, lest, of these,
+Some say hereafter, Menelaus bore
+Antilochus by falsehood down, and led
+The mare away, because, although his steeds
+Were worse, his arm was mightier, and prevail’d.715
+Yet hold—myself will judge, and will to all
+Contentment give, for I will judge aright.
+Hither, Antilochus, illustrious youth!
+And, as the law prescribes, standing before
+Thy steeds and chariot, holding too the scourge720
+With which thou drovest, lay hand on both thy steeds,
+And swear by Neptune, circler of the earth,
+That neither wilfully, nor yet by fraud
+Thou didst impede my chariot in its course.
+  Then prudent, thus Antilochus replied.725
+Oh royal Menelaus! patient bear
+The fault of one thy junior far, in years
+Alike unequal and in worth to thee.
+Thou know’st how rash is youth, and how propense
+To pass the bounds by decency prescribed,730
+Quick, but not wise. Lay, then, thy wrath aside;
+The mare now given me I will myself
+Deliver to thee, and if thou require
+A larger recompense, will rather yield
+A larger much than from thy favor fall735
+Deservedly for ever, mighty Prince!
+And sin so heinously against the Gods.
+  So saying, the son of valiant Nestor led
+The mare, himself, to Menelaus’ hand,
+Who with heart-freshening joy the prize received.740
+As on the ears of growing corn the dews
+Fall grateful, while the spiry grain erect
+Bristles the fields, so, Menelaus, felt
+Thy inmost soul a soothing pleasure sweet!
+Then answer thus the hero quick return’d.745
+  Antilochus! exasperate though I were,
+Now, such no longer, I relinquish glad
+All strife with thee, for that at other times
+Thou never inconsiderate wast or light,
+Although by youthful heat misled to-day.750
+Yet safer is it not to over-reach
+Superiors, for no other Grecian here
+Had my extreme displeasure calm’d so soon;
+But thou hast suffer’d much, and much hast toil’d,
+As thy good father and thy brother have,755
+On my behalf; I, therefore, yield, subdued
+By thy entreaties, and the mare, though mine,
+Will also give thee, that these Grecians all
+May know me neither proud nor hard to appease.
+  So saying, the mare he to Noëmon gave,760
+Friend of Antilochus, and, well-content,
+The polish’d caldron for _his_ prize received.
+The fourth awarded lot (for he had fourth
+Arrived) Meriones asserted next,
+The golden talents; but the phial still765
+Left unappropriated Achilles bore
+Across the circus in his hand, a gift
+To ancient Nestor, whom he thus bespake.
+  Thou also, oh my father! this accept,
+Which in remembrance of the funeral rites770
+Of my Patroclus, keep, for him thou seest
+Among the Greeks no more. Receive a prize,
+Thine by gratuity; for thou shalt wield
+The cestus, wrestle, at the spear contend,
+Or in the foot-race (fallen as thou art775
+Into the wane of life) never again.
+  He said, and placed it in his hands. He, glad,
+Receiving it, in accents wing’d replied.
+  True, oh my son! is all which thou hast spoken.
+These limbs, these hands, young friend! (their vigor lost)780
+No longer, darted from the shoulder, spring
+At once to battle. Ah that I could grow
+Young yet again, could feel again such force
+Athletic, as when in Buprasium erst
+The Epeans with sepulchral pomp entomb’d785
+King Amarynceus, where his sons ordain’d
+Funereal games in honor of their sire!
+Epean none or even Pylian there
+Could cope with me, or yet Ætolian bold.
+Boxing, I vanquish’d Clytomedes, son790
+Of Enops; wrestling, the Pleuronian Chief
+Ancæus; in the foot-race Iphiclus,
+Though a fleet runner; and I over-pitch’d
+Phyleus and Polydorus at the spear.
+The sons of Actor[16] in the chariot-race795
+Alone surpass’d me, being two for one,
+And jealous both lest I should also win
+That prize, for to the victor charioteer
+They had assign’d the noblest prize of all.
+They were twin-brothers, and one ruled the steeds,800
+The steeds one ruled,[17] the other lash’d them on.
+Such once was I; but now, these sports I leave
+To younger; me submission most befits
+To withering age, who then outshone the best.
+But go. The funeral of thy friend with games805
+Proceed to celebrate; I accept thy gift
+With pleasure; and my heart is also glad
+That thou art mindful evermore of one
+Who loves thee, and such honor in the sight
+Yield’st me of all the Greeks, as is my due.810
+May the Gods bless thee for it more and more!
+  He spake, and Peleus’ son, when he had heard
+At large his commendation from the lips
+Of Nestor, through the assembled Greeks return’d.
+He next proposed, not lightly to be won,815
+The boxer’s prize. He tether’d down a mule,
+Untamed and hard to tame, but strong to toil,
+And in her prime of vigor, in the midst;
+A goblet to the vanquish’d he assign’d,
+Then stood erect and to the Greeks exclaim’d.820
+  Atridæ! and ye Argives brazen-greaved!
+I call for two bold combatants expert
+To wage fierce strife for these, with lifted fists
+Smiting each other. He, who by the aid
+Of Phœbus shall o’ertome, and whom the Greeks825
+Shall all pronounce victorious, leads the mule
+Hence to his tent; the vanquish’d takes the cup.
+  He spake, and at his word a Greek arose
+Big, bold, and skillful in the boxer’s art,
+Epeüs, son of Panopeus; his hand830
+He on the mule imposed, and thus he said.
+  Approach the man ambitious of the cup!
+For no Achaian here shall with his fist
+Me foiling, win the mule. I boast myself
+To all superior. May it not suffice835
+That I to no pre-eminence pretend
+In battle? To attain to foremost praise
+Alike in every art is not for one.
+But this I promise, and will well perform—
+My blows shall lay him open, split him, crush840
+His bones to splinters, and let all his friends,
+Attendant on him, wait to bear him hence,
+Vanquish’d by my superior force in fight.
+  He ended, and his speech found no reply.
+One godlike Chief alone, Euryalus,845
+Son of the King Mecisteus, who, himself,
+Sprang from Talaion, opposite arose.
+He, on the death of Oedipus, at Thebes
+Contending in the games held at his tomb,
+Had overcome the whole Cadmean race.850
+Him Diomede spear-famed for fight prepared,
+Giving him all encouragement, for much
+He wish’d him victory. First then he threw[18]
+His cincture to him; next, he gave him thongs[19]
+Cut from the hide of a wild buffalo.855
+Both girt around, into the midst they moved.
+Then, lifting high their brawny arms, and fists
+Mingling with fists, to furious fight they fell;
+Dire was the crash of jaws, and the sweat stream’d
+From every limb. Epeüs fierce advanced,860
+And while Euryalus with cautious eye
+Watch’d his advantage, pash’d him on the cheek
+He stood no longer, but, his shapely limbs,
+Unequal to his weight, sinking, he fell.
+As by the rising north-wind driven ashore865
+A huge fish flounces on the weedy beach,
+Which soon the sable flood covers again,
+So, beaten down, he bounded. But Epeüs,
+Heroic chief, upraised him by his hand,
+And his own comrades from the circus forth870
+Led him, step dragging after step, the blood
+Ejecting grumous, and at every pace
+Rolling his head languid from side to side.
+They placed him all unconscious on his seat
+In his own band, then fetch’d his prize, the cup.875
+  Still other prizes, then, Achilles placed
+In view of all, the sturdy wrestler’s meed.
+A large hearth-tripod, valued by the Greeks
+At twice six beeves, should pay the victor’s toil;
+But for the vanquish’d, in the midst he set880
+A damsel in variety expert
+Of arts domestic, valued at four beeves.
+He rose erect, and to the Greeks he cried.
+  Arise ye, now, who shall this prize dispute.
+So spake the son of Peleus; then arose885
+Huge Telamonian Ajax, and upstood
+Ulysses also, in all wiles adept.
+Both girt around, into the midst they moved.
+With vigorous gripe each lock’d the other fast,
+Like rafters, standing, of some mansion built890
+By a prime artist proof against all winds.
+Their backs, tugg’d vehemently, creak’d,[20] the sweat
+Trickled, and on their flanks and shoulders, red
+The whelks arose; they bearing still in mind
+The tripod, ceased not struggling for the prize.895
+Nor could Ulysses from his station move
+And cast down Ajax, nor could Ajax him
+Unsettle, fixt so firm Ulysses stood.
+But when, long time expectant, all the Greeks
+Grew weary, then, huge Ajax him bespake.900
+  Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!
+Lift, or be lifted, and let Jove decide.
+  He said, and heaved Ulysses. Then, his wiles
+Forgat not he, but on the ham behind
+Chopp’d him; the limbs of Ajax at the stroke905
+Disabled sank; he fell supine, and bore
+Ulysses close adhering to his chest
+Down with him. Wonder riveted all eyes.
+Then brave Ulysses from the ground awhile
+Him lifted in his turn, but ere he stood,910
+Inserting his own knee the knees between[21]
+Of Ajax, threw him. To the earth they fell
+Both, and with dust defiled lay side by side.
+And now, arising to a third essay,
+They should have wrestled yet again, had not915
+Achilles, interfering, them restrain’d.
+  Strive not together more; cease to exhaust
+Each other’s force; ye both have earn’d the prize
+Depart alike requited, and give place
+To other Grecians who shall next contend.920
+  He spake; they glad complied, and wiping off
+The dust, put on their tunics. Then again
+Achilles other prizes yet proposed,
+The rapid runner’s meed. First, he produced
+A silver goblet of six measures; earth925
+Own’d not its like for elegance of form.
+Skilful Sidonian artists had around
+Embellish’d it,[22] and o’er the sable deep
+Phœnician merchants into Lemnos’ port
+Had borne it, and the boon to Thoas[23] given;930
+But Jason’s son, Euneüs, in exchange
+For Priam’s son Lycaon, to the hand
+Had pass’d it of Patroclus famed in arms.
+Achilles this, in honor of his friend,
+Set forth, the swiftest runner’s recompense.935
+The second should a fatted ox receive
+Of largest size, and he assign’d of gold
+A just half-talent to the worst and last.
+He stood erect, and to the Greeks he cried.
+  Now stand ye forth who shall this prize dispute.940
+He said, and at his word instant arose
+Swift Ajax Oïliades; upsprang
+The shrewd Ulysses next, and after him
+Brave Nestor’s son Antilochus, with whom
+None vied in speed of all the youths of Greece.945
+They stood prepared. Achilles show’d the goal.
+At once all started. Oïliades
+Led swift the course, and closely at his heels
+Ulysses ran. Near as some cinctured maid
+Industrious holds the distaff to her breast,950
+While to and fro with practised finger neat
+She tends the flax drawing it to a thread,
+So near Ulysses follow’d him, and press’d
+His footsteps, ere the dust fill’d them again,
+Pouring his breath into his neck behind,955
+And never slackening pace. His ardent thirst
+Of victory with universal shouts
+All seconded, and, eager, bade him on.
+And now the contest shortening to a close,
+Ulysses his request silent and brief960
+To azure-eyed Minerva thus preferr’d.
+  Oh Goddess hear, prosper me in the race!
+Such was his prayer, with which Minerva pleased,
+Freshen’d his limbs, and made him light to run.
+And now, when in one moment they should both965
+Have darted on the prize, then Ajax’ foot
+Sliding, he fell; for where the dung of beeves
+Slain by Achilles for his friend, had spread
+The soil, there[24] Pallas tripp’d him. Ordure foul
+His mouth, and ordure foul his nostrils fill’d.970
+Then brave Ulysses, first arriving, seized
+The cup, and Ajax took his prize, the ox.
+He grasp’d his horn, and sputtering as he stood
+The ordure forth, the Argives thus bespake.
+  Ah—Pallas tripp’d my footsteps; she attends975
+Ulysses ever with a mother’s care.
+  Loud laugh’d the Grecians. Then, the remnant prize
+Antilochus receiving, smiled and said.
+  Ye need not, fellow-warriors, to be taught
+That now, as ever, the immortal Gods980
+Honor on seniority bestow.
+Ajax is elder, yet not much, than I.
+But Laertiades was born in times
+Long past, a chief coëval with our sires,
+Not young, but vigorous; and of the Greeks,985
+Achilles may alone with him contend.
+  So saying, the merit of superior speed
+To Peleus’ son he gave, who thus replied.
+  Antilochus! thy praise of me shall prove
+Nor vain nor unproductive to thyself,990
+For the half-talent doubled shall be thine.
+  He spake, and, doubling it, the talent placed
+Whole in his hand. He glad the gift received.
+Achilles, then Sarpedon’s arms produced,
+Stripp’d from him by Patroclus, his long spear,995
+Helmet and shield, which in the midst he placed.
+He stood erect, and to the Greeks he cried.
+  I call for two brave warriors arm’d to prove
+Each other’s skill with weapons keen, this prize
+Disputing, next, in presence of us all.1000
+Who first shall through his armor reach the skin
+Of his antagonist, and shall draw his blood,
+To him this silver-studded falchion bright
+I give; the blade is Thracian, and of late
+Asteropæus wore it, whom I slew.1005
+These other arms shall be their common meed,
+And I will banquet both within my tent.
+  He said, then Telamonian Ajax huge
+Arose, and opposite the son arose
+Of warlike Tydeus, Diomede the brave.1010
+Apart from all the people each put on
+His arms, then moved into the middle space,
+Lowering terrific, and on fire to fight.
+The host look’d on amazed. Approaching each
+The other, thrice they sprang to the assault,1015
+And thrice struck hand to hand. Ajax the shield
+Pierced of his adversary, but the flesh
+Attain’d not, baffled by his mail within.
+Then Tydeus’ son, sheer o’er the ample disk
+Of Ajax, thrust a lance home to his neck,1020
+And the Achaians for the life appall’d
+Of Ajax, bade them, ceasing, share the prize.
+But the huge falchion with its sheath and belt—
+Achilles them on Diomede bestow’d.
+  The hero, next, an iron clod produced1025
+Rough from the forge, and wont to task the might
+Of King Eëtion; but, when him he slew,
+Pelides, glorious chief, with other spoils
+From Thebes convey’d it in his fleet to Troy.
+He stood erect, and to the Greeks he cried.1030
+  Come forth who also shall this prize dispute!
+How far soe’er remote the winner’s fields,
+This lump shall serve his wants five circling years;
+His shepherd shall not, or his plower, need
+In quest of iron seek the distant town,1035
+But hence he shall himself their wants supply.[25]
+Then Polypœtes brave in fight arose,
+Arose Leonteus also, godlike chief,
+With Ajax son of Telamon. Each took
+His station, and Epeüs seized the clod.1040
+He swung, he cast it, and the Grecians laugh’d.
+Leonteus, branch of Mars, quoited it next.
+Huge Telamonian Ajax with strong arm
+Dismiss’d it third, and overpitch’d them both.
+But when brave Polypœtes seized the mass1045
+Far as the vigorous herdsman flings his staff
+That twirling flies his numerous beeves between,[26]
+So far his cast outmeasured all beside,
+And the host shouted. Then the friends arose
+Of Polypœtes valiant chief, and bore1050
+His ponderous acquisition to the ships.
+  The archers’ prize Achilles next proposed,
+Ten double and ten single axes, form’d
+Of steel convertible to arrow-points.
+He fix’d, far distant on the sands, the mast1055
+Of a brave bark cerulean-prow’d, to which
+With small cord fasten’d by the foot he tied
+A timorous dove, their mark at which to aim.
+[27]Who strikes the dove, he conquers, and shall bear
+These double axes all into his tent.1060
+But who the cord alone, missing the bird,
+Successful less, he wins the single blades.
+  The might of royal Teucer then arose,
+And, fellow-warrior of the King of Crete,
+Valiant Meriones. A brazen casque1065
+Received the lots; they shook them, and the lot
+Fell first to Teucer. He, at once, a shaft
+Sent smartly forth, but vow’d not to the King[28]
+A hecatomb, all firstlings of the flock.
+He therefore (for Apollo greater praise1070
+Denied him) miss’d the dove, but struck the cord
+That tied her, at small distance from the knot,
+And with his arrow sever’d it. Upsprang
+The bird into the air, and to the ground
+Depending fell the cord. Shouts rent the skies.1075
+Then, all in haste, Meriones the bow
+Caught from his hand holding a shaft the while
+Already aim’d, and to Apollo vow’d
+A hecatomb, all firstlings of the flock.
+He eyed the dove aloft, under a cloud,1080
+And, while she wheel’d around, struck her beneath
+The pinion; through her and beyond her pass’d
+The arrow, and, returning, pierced the soil
+Fast by the foot of brave Meriones.
+She, perching on the mast again, her head1085
+Reclined, and hung her wide-unfolded wing,
+But, soon expiring, dropp’d and fell remote.
+Amazement seized the people. To his tent
+Meriones the ten best axes bore,
+And Teucer the inferior ten to his.[29]1090
+  Then, last, Achilles in the circus placed
+A ponderous spear and caldron yet unfired,
+Emboss’d with flowers around, its worth an ox.
+Upstood the spear-expert; Atrides first,
+Wide-ruling Agamemnon, King of men,1095
+And next, brave fellow-warrior of the King
+Of Crete, Meriones; when thus his speech
+Achilles to the royal chief address’d.
+  Atrides! (for we know thy skill and force
+Matchless! that none can hurl the spear as thou)1100
+This prize is thine, order it to thy ship;
+And if it please thee, as I would it might,
+Let brave Meriones the spear receive.
+  He said; nor Agamemnon not complied,
+But to Meriones the brazen spear
+Presenting, to Talthybius gave in charge
+The caldron, next, his own illustrious prize.
+
+
+
+
+BOOK XXIV.
+
+
+ARGUMENT OF THE TWENTY-FOURTH BOOK.
+
+Priam, by command of Jupiter, and under conduct of Mercury, seeks
+Achilles in his tent, who admonished previously by Thetis, consents to
+accept ransom for the body of Hector. Hector is mourned, and the manner
+of his funeral, circumstantially described, concludes the poem.
+
+
+BOOK XXIV.
+
+
+The games all closed, the people went dispersed
+Each to his ship; they, mindful of repast,
+And to enjoy repose; but other thoughts
+Achilles’ mind employ’d: he still deplored
+With tears his loved Patroclus, nor the force5
+Felt of all-conquering sleep, but turn’d and turn’d
+Restless from side to side, mourning the loss
+Of such a friend, so manly, and so brave.
+Their fellowship in toil; their hardships oft
+Sustain’d in fight laborious, or o’ercome10
+With difficulty on the perilous deep—
+Remembrance busily retracing themes
+Like these, drew down his cheeks continual tears.
+Now on his side he lay, now lay supine,
+Now prone, then starting from his couch he roam’d15
+Forlorn the beach, nor did the rising morn
+On seas and shores escape his watchful eye,
+But joining to his chariot his swift steeds,
+He fasten’d Hector to be dragg’d behind.
+Around the tomb of Menœtiades20
+Him thrice he dragg’d; then rested in his tent,
+Leaving him at his length stretch’d in the dust.
+Meantime Apollo with compassion touch’d
+Even of the lifeless Hector, from all taint
+Saved him, and with the golden ægis broad25
+Covering, preserved him, although dragg’d, untorn.
+
+  While he, indulging thus his wrath, disgraced
+Brave Hector, the immortals at that sight
+With pity moved, exhorted Mercury
+The watchful Argicide, to steal him thence.30
+That counsel pleased the rest, but neither pleased
+Juno, nor Neptune, nor the blue-eyed maid.
+They still, as at the first, held fast their hate
+Of sacred Troy, detested Priam still,
+And still his people, mindful of the crime35
+Of Paris, who when to his rural hut
+They came, those Goddesses affronting,[1] praise
+And admiration gave to her alone
+Who with vile lusts his preference repaid.
+But when the twelfth ensuing morn arose,40
+Apollo, then, the immortals thus address’d.
+  Ye Gods, your dealings now injurious seem
+And cruel. Was not Hector wont to burn
+Thighs of fat goats and bullocks at your shrines?
+Whom now, though dead, ye cannot yet endure45
+To rescue, that Andromache once more
+Might view him, his own mother, his own son,
+His father and the people, who would soon
+Yield him his just demand, a funeral fire.
+But, oh ye Gods! your pleasure is alone50
+To please Achilles, that pernicious chief,
+Who neither right regards, nor owns a mind
+That can relent, but as the lion, urged
+By his own dauntless heart and savage force,
+Invades without remorse the rights of man,55
+That he may banquet on his herds and flocks,
+So Peleus’ son all pity from his breast
+Hath driven, and shame, man’s blessing or his curse.[2]
+For whosoever hath a loss sustain’d
+Still dearer, whether of his brother born60
+From the same womb, or even of his son,
+When he hath once bewail’d him, weeps no more,
+For fate itself gives man a patient mind.
+Yet Peleus’ son, not so contented, slays
+Illustrious Hector first, then drags his corse65
+In cruel triumph at his chariot-wheels
+Around Patroclus’ tomb; but neither well
+He acts, nor honorably to himself,
+Who may, perchance, brave though he be, incur
+Our anger, while to gratify revenge70
+He pours dishonor thus on senseless clay.
+  To whom, incensed, Juno white-arm’d replied.
+And be it so; stand fast this word of thine,
+God of the silver bow! if ye account
+Only such honor to Achilles due75
+As Hector claims; but Hector was by birth
+Mere man, and suckled at a woman’s breast.
+Not such Achilles; him a Goddess bore,
+Whom I myself nourish’d, and on my lap
+Fondled, and in due time to Peleus gave80
+In marriage, to a chief beloved in heaven
+Peculiarly; ye were yourselves, ye Gods!
+Partakers of the nuptial feast, and thou
+Wast present also with thine harp in hand,
+Thou comrade of the vile! thou faithless ever!85
+  Then answer thus cloud-gatherer Jove return’d.
+Juno, forbear. Indulge not always wrath
+Against the Gods. They shall not share alike,
+And in the same proportion our regards.
+Yet even Hector was the man in Troy90
+Most favor’d by the Gods, and him no less
+I also loved, for punctual were his gifts
+To us; mine altar never miss’d from him
+Libation, or the steam of sacrifice,
+The meed allotted to us from of old.95
+But steal him not, since by Achilles’ eye
+Unseen ye cannot, who both day and night
+Watches[3] him, as a mother tends her son.
+But call ye Thetis hither, I would give
+The Goddess counsel, that, at Priam’s hands100
+Accepting gifts, Achilles loose the dead.
+  He ceased. Then Iris tempest-wing’d arose.
+Samos between, and Imbrus rock-begirt,
+She plunged into the gloomy flood; loud groan’d
+The briny pool, while sudden down she rush’d,105
+As sinks the bull’s[4] horn with its leaden weight,
+Death bearing to the raveners of the deep.
+Within her vaulted cave Thetis she found
+By every nymph of Ocean round about
+Encompass’d; she, amid them all, the fate110
+Wept of her noble son ordain’d to death
+At fertile Troy, from Phthia far remote.
+Then, Iris, drawing near, her thus address’d.
+  Arise, O Thetis! Jove, the author dread
+Of everlasting counsels, calls for thee.115
+  To whom the Goddess of the silver feet.
+Why calls the mighty Thunderer me? I fear,
+Oppress’d with countless sorrows as I am,
+To mingle with the Gods. Yet I obey—
+No word of his can prove an empty sound.120
+  So saying, the Goddess took her sable veil
+(Eye ne’er beheld a darker) and began
+Her progress, by the storm-wing’d Iris led.
+On either hand the billows open’d wide
+A pass before them; they, ascending soon125
+The shore, updarted swift into the skies.
+They found loud-voiced Saturnian Jove around
+Environ’d by the ever-blessed Gods
+Convened in full assembly; she beside
+Her Father Jove (Pallas retiring) sat.130
+Then, Juno, with consolatory speech,
+Presented to her hand a golden cup,
+Of which she drank, then gave it back again,
+And thus the sire of Gods and men began.
+  Goddess of ocean, Thetis! thou hast sought135
+Olympus, bearing in thy bosom grief
+Never to be assuaged, as well I know.
+Yet shalt thou learn, afflicted as thou art,
+Why I have summon’d thee. Nine days the Gods,
+Concerning Hector’s body and thy own140
+Brave city-spoiler son, have held dispute,
+And some have urged ofttimes the Argicide
+Keen-sighted Mercury, to steal the dead.
+But I forbade it for Achilles’ sake,
+Whom I exalt, the better to insure145
+Thy reverence and thy friendship evermore.
+Haste, therefore, seek thy son, and tell him thus,
+The Gods resent it, say (but most of all
+Myself am angry) that he still detains
+Amid his fleet, through fury of revenge,150
+Unransom’d Hector; so shall he, at length,
+Through fear of me, perchance, release the slain.
+Myself to generous Priam will, the while,
+Send Iris, who shall bid him to the fleet
+Of Greece, such ransom bearing as may soothe155
+Achilles, for redemption of his son.
+  So spake the God, nor Thetis not complied.
+Descending swift from the Olympian heights
+She reach’d Achilles’ tent. Him there she found
+Groaning disconsolate, while others ran160
+To and fro, occupied around a sheep
+New-slaughter’d, large, and of exuberant fleece.
+She, sitting close beside him, softly strok’d
+His cheek, and thus, affectionate, began.
+  How long, my son! sorrowing and mourning here,165
+Wilt thou consume thy soul, nor give one thought
+Either to food or love? Yet love is good,
+And woman grief’s best cure; for length of days
+Is not thy doom, but, even now, thy death
+And ruthless destiny are on the wing.170
+Mark me,—I come a lieger sent from Jove.
+The Gods, he saith, resent it, but himself
+More deeply than the rest, that thou detain’st
+Amid thy fleet, through fury of revenge,
+Unransom’d Hector. Be advised, accept175
+Ransom, and to his friends resign the dead.
+  To whom Achilles, swiftest of the swift.
+Come then the ransomer, and take him hence;
+If Jove himself command it,—be it so.
+  So they, among the ships, conferring sat180
+On various themes, the Goddess and her son;
+Meantime Saturnian Jove commanded down
+His swift ambassadress to sacred Troy.
+  Hence, rapid Iris! leave the Olympian heights.
+And, finding noble Priam, bid him haste185
+Into Achaia’s fleet, bearing such gifts
+As may assuage Achilles, and prevail
+To liberate the body of his son.
+Alone, he must; no Trojan of them all
+May company the senior thither, save190
+An ancient herald to direct his mules
+And his wheel’d litter, and to bring the dead
+Back into Ilium, whom Achilles slew.
+Let neither fear of death nor other fear
+Trouble him aught, so safe a guard and sure195
+We give him; Mercury shall be his guide
+Into Achilles’ presence in his tent.
+Nor will himself Achilles slay him there,
+Or even permit his death, but will forbid
+All violence; for he is not unwise200
+Nor heedless, no—nor wilful to offend,
+But will his suppliant with much grace receive.[5]
+
+  He ceased; then Iris tempest-wing’d arose,
+Jove’s messenger, and, at the gates arrived
+Of Priam, wo and wailing found within.205
+Around their father, in the hall, his sons
+Their robes with tears water’d, while them amidst
+The hoary King sat mantled, muffled close,
+And on his venerable head and neck
+Much dust was spread, which, rolling on the earth,210
+He had shower’d on them with unsparing hands.
+The palace echoed to his daughters’ cries,
+And to the cries of matrons calling fresh
+Into remembrance many a valiant chief
+Now stretch’d in dust, by Argive hands destroy’d.215
+The messenger of Jove at Priam’s side
+Standing, with whisper’d accents low his ear
+Saluted, but he trembled at the sound.
+  Courage, Dardanian Priam! fear thou nought;
+To thee no prophetess of ill, I come;220
+But with kind purpose: Jove’s ambassadress
+Am I, who though remote, yet entertains
+Much pity, and much tender care for thee.
+Olympian Jove commands thee to redeem
+The noble Hector, with an offering large225
+Of gifts that may Achilles’ wrath appease.
+Alone, thou must; no Trojan of them all
+Hath leave to attend thy journey thither, save
+An ancient herald to direct thy mules
+And thy wheel’d litter, and to bring the dead230
+Back into Ilium, whom Achilles slew.
+Let neither fear of death nor other fear
+Trouble thee aught, so safe a guard and sure
+He gives thee; Mercury shall be thy guide
+Even to Achilles’ presence in his tent.235
+Nor will himself Achilles slay thee there,
+Or even permit thy death, but will forbid
+All violence; for he is not unwise
+Nor heedless, no—nor wilful to offend,
+But will his suppliant with much grace receive.240
+
+  So spake the swift ambassadress, and went.
+Then, calling to his sons, he bade them bring
+His litter forth, and bind the coffer on,
+While to his fragrant chamber he repair’d
+Himself, with cedar lined and lofty-roof’d,245
+A treasury of wonders into which
+The Queen he summon’d, whom he thus bespake.
+  Hecuba! the ambassadress of Jove
+Hath come, who bids me to the Grecian fleet,
+Bearing such presents thither as may soothe250
+Achilles, for redemption of my son.
+But say, what seems this enterprise to thee?
+Myself am much inclined to it, I feel
+My courage prompting me amain toward
+The fleet, and into the Achaian camp.255
+  Then wept the Queen aloud, and thus replied.
+Ah! whither is thy wisdom fled, for which
+Both strangers once, and Trojans honor’d _thee_?
+How canst thou wish to penetrate alone
+The Grecian fleet, and to appear before260
+His face, by whom so many valiant sons
+Of thine have fallen? Thou hast an iron heart!
+For should that savage man and faithless once
+Seize and discover thee, no pity expect
+Or reverence at his hands. Come—let us weep265
+Together, here sequester’d; for the thread
+Spun for him by his destiny severe
+When he was born, ordain’d our son remote
+From us his parents to be food for hounds
+In that chief’s tent. Oh! clinging to his side,270
+How I could tear him with my teeth! His deeds,
+Disgraceful to my son, then should not want
+Retaliation; for he slew not him
+Skulking, but standing boldly for the wives,
+The daughters fair, and citizens of Troy,275
+Guiltless of flight,[6] and of the wish to fly.
+
+  Whom godlike Priam answer’d, ancient King.
+Impede me not who willing am to go,
+Nor be, thyself, a bird of ominous note
+To terrify me under my own roof,280
+For thou shalt not prevail. Had mortal man
+Enjoin’d me this attempt, prophet, or priest,
+Or soothsayer, I had pronounced him false
+And fear’d it but the more. But, since I saw
+The Goddess with these eyes, and heard, myself,285
+The voice divine, I go; that word shall stand;
+And, if my doom be in the fleet of Greece
+To perish, be it so; Achilles’ arm
+Shall give me speedy death, and I shall die
+Folding my son, and satisfied with tears.290
+  So saying, he open’d wide the elegant lids
+Of numerous chests, whence mantles twelve he took
+Of texture beautiful; twelve single cloaks;
+As many carpets, with as many robes,
+To which he added vests, an equal store.295
+He also took ten talents forth of gold,
+All weigh’d, two splendid tripods, caldrons four,
+And after these a cup of matchless worth
+Given to him when ambassador in Thrace;
+A noble gift, which yet the hoary King300
+Spared not, such fervor of desire he felt
+To loose his son. Then from his portico,
+With angry taunts he drove the gather’d crowds.
+  Away! away! ye dregs of earth, away!
+Ye shame of human kind! Have ye no griefs305
+At home, that ye come hither troubling _me_?
+Deem ye it little that Saturnian Jove
+Afflicts me thus, and of my very best,
+Best boy deprives me? Ah! ye shall be taught
+Yourselves that loss, far easier to be slain310
+By the Achaians now, since he is dead.
+But I, ere yet the city I behold
+Taken and pillaged, with these aged eyes,
+Shall find safe hiding in the shades below.
+
+  He said, and chased them with his staff; they left315
+In haste the doors, by the old King expell’d.
+Then, chiding them aloud, his sons he call’d,
+Helenus, Paris, noble Agathon,
+Pammon, Antiphonus, and bold in fight
+Polites, Dios of illustrious fame,320
+Hippothoüs and Deiphobus—all nine
+He call’d, thus issuing, angry, his commands.
+  Quick! quick! ye slothful in your father’s cause,
+Ye worthless brood! would that in Hector’s stead
+Ye all had perish’d in the fleet of Greece!325
+Oh altogether wretched! in all Troy
+No man had sons to boast valiant as mine,
+And I have lost them all. Mestor is gone
+The godlike, Troilus the steed-renown’d,
+And Hector, who with other men compared330
+Seem’d a Divinity, whom none had deem’d
+From mortal man derived, but from a God.
+These Mars hath taken, and hath left me none
+But scandals of my house, void of all truth,
+Dancers, exact step-measurers,[7] a band335
+Of public robbers, thieves of kids and lambs.
+Will ye not bring my litter to the gate
+This moment, and with all this package quick
+Charge it, that we may hence without delay?
+  He said, and by his chiding awed, his sons340
+Drew forth the royal litter, neat, new-built,
+And following swift the draught, on which they bound
+The coffer; next, they lower’d from the wall
+The sculptured boxen yoke with its two rings;[8]
+And with the yoke its furniture, in length345
+Nine cubits; this to the extremest end
+Adjusting of the pole, they cast the ring
+Over the ring-bolt; then, thrice through the yoke
+They drew the brace on both sides, made it fast
+With even knots, and tuck’d[9] the dangling ends.350
+Producing, next, the glorious ransom-price
+Of Hector’s body, on the litter’s floor
+They heap’d it all, then yoked the sturdy mules,
+A gift illustrious by the Mysians erst
+Conferr’d on Priam; to the chariot, last,355
+They led forth Priam’s steeds, which the old King
+(In person serving them) with freshest corn
+Constant supplied; meantime, himself within
+The palace, and his herald, were employ’d
+Girding[10] themselves, to go; wise each and good.360
+And now came mournful Hecuba, with wine
+Delicious charged, which in a golden cup
+She brought, that not without libation due
+First made, they might depart. Before the steeds
+Her steps she stay’d, and Priam thus address’d.365
+  Take this, and to the Sire of all perform
+Libation, praying him a safe return
+From hostile hands, since thou art urged to seek
+The Grecian camp, though not by my desire.
+Pray also to Idæan Jove cloud-girt,370
+Who oversees all Ilium, that he send
+His messenger or ere thou go, the bird
+His favorite most, surpassing all in strength,
+At thy right hand; him seeing, thou shalt tend
+With better hope toward the fleet of Greece.375
+But should loud-thundering Jove his lieger swift
+Withhold, from me far be it to advise
+This journey, howsoe’er thou wish to go.
+  To whom the godlike Priam thus replied.
+This exhortation will I not refuse,380
+O Queen! for, lifting to the Gods his hands
+In prayer for their compassion, none can err.
+  So saying, he bade the maiden o’er the rest,
+Chief in authority, pour on his hands
+Pure water, for the maiden at his side385
+With ewer charged and laver, stood prepared.
+He laved his hands; then, taking from the Queen
+The goblet, in his middle area stood
+Pouring libation with his eyes upturn’d
+Heaven-ward devout, and thus his prayer preferr’d.390
+  Jove, great and glorious above all, who rulest,
+On Ida’s summit seated, all below!
+Grant me arrived within Achilles’ tent
+Kindness to meet and pity, and oh send
+Thy messenger or ere I go, the bird395
+Thy favorite most, surpassing all in strength,
+At my right hand, which seeing, I shall tend
+With better hope toward the fleet of Greece.
+  He ended, at whose prayer, incontinent,
+Jove sent his eagle, surest of all signs,400
+The black-plumed bird voracious, Morphnos[11] named,
+And Percnos.[11] Wide as the well-guarded door
+Of some rich potentate his vans he spread
+On either side; they saw him on the right,
+Skimming the towers of Troy; glad they beheld405
+That omen, and all felt their hearts consoled.
+  Delay’d not then the hoary King, but quick
+Ascending to his seat, his coursers urged
+Through vestibule and sounding porch abroad.
+The four-wheel’d litter led, drawn by the mules410
+Which sage Idæus managed, behind whom
+Went Priam, plying with the scourge his steeds
+Continual through the town, while all his friends,
+Following their sovereign with dejected hearts,
+Lamented him as going to his death.415
+But when from Ilium’s gate into the plain
+They had descended, then the sons-in-law
+Of Priam, and his sons, to Troy return’d.
+Nor they, now traversing the plain, the note
+Escaped of Jove the Thunderer; he beheld420
+Compassionate the venerable King,
+And thus his own son Mercury bespake.
+  Mercury! (for above all others thou
+Delightest to associate with mankind
+Familiar, whom thou wilt winning with ease425
+To converse free) go thou, and so conduct
+Priam into the Grecian camp, that none
+Of all the numerous Danaï may see
+Or mark him, till he reach Achilles’ tent.
+  He spake, nor the ambassador of heaven430
+The Argicide delay’d, but bound in haste
+His undecaying sandals to his feet,
+Golden, divine, which waft him o’er the floods
+Swift as the wind, and o’er the boundless earth.
+He took his rod with which he charms to sleep435
+All eyes, and theirs who sleep opens again.
+Arm’d with that rod, forth flew the Argicide.
+At Ilium and the Hellespontic shores
+Arriving sudden, a king’s son he seem’d,
+Now clothing first his ruddy cheek with down,440
+Which is youth’s loveliest season; so disguised,
+His progress he began. They now (the tomb
+Magnificent of Ilus past) beside
+The river stay’d the mules and steeds to drink,
+For twilight dimm’d the fields. Idæus first445
+Perceived him near, and Priam thus bespake.
+  Think, son of Dardanus! for we have need
+Of our best thought. I see a warrior. Now,
+Now we shall die; I know it. Turn we quick
+Our steeds to flight; or let us clasp his knees450
+And his compassion suppliant essay.
+  Terror and consternation at that sound
+The mind of Priam felt; erect the hair
+Bristled his limbs, and with amaze he stood
+Motionless. But the God, meantime, approach’d,455
+And, seizing ancient Priam’s hand, inquired.
+  Whither, my father! in the dewy night
+Drivest thou thy mules and steeds, while others sleep?
+And fear’st thou not the fiery host of Greece,
+Thy foes implacable, so nigh at hand?460
+Of whom should any, through the shadow dun
+Of flitting night, discern thee bearing forth
+So rich a charge, then what wouldst thou expect?
+Thou art not young thyself, nor with the aid
+Of this thine ancient servant, strong enough465
+Force to repulse, should any threaten force.
+But injury fear none or harm from me;
+I rather much from harm by other hands
+Would save thee, thou resemblest so my sire.
+  Whom answer’d godlike Priam, hoar with age.470
+My son! well spoken. Thou hast judged aright.
+Yet even me some Deity protects
+Thus far; to whom I owe it that I meet
+So seasonably one like thee, in form
+So admirable, and in mind discreet475
+As thou art beautiful. Blest parents, thine!
+  To whom the messenger of heaven again,
+The Argicide. Oh ancient and revered!
+Thou hast well spoken all. Yet this declare,
+And with sincerity; bear’st thou away480
+Into some foreign country, for the sake
+Of safer custody, this precious charge?
+Or, urged by fear, forsake ye all alike
+Troy’s sacred towers! since he whom thou hast lost,
+Thy noble son, was of excelling worth485
+In arms, and nought inferior to the Greeks.
+  Then thus the godlike Priam, hoary King.
+But tell me first who _Thou_ art, and from whom
+Descended, loveliest youth! who hast the fate
+So well of my unhappy son rehearsed?490
+  To whom the herald Mercury replied.
+Thy questions, venerable sire! proposed
+Concerning noble Hector, are design’d
+To prove me. Him, not seldom, with these eyes
+In man-ennobling fight I have beheld495
+Most active; saw him when he thinn’d the Greeks
+With his sharp spear, and drove them to the ships.
+Amazed we stood to notice him; for us,
+Incensed against the ruler of our host,
+Achilles suffer’d not to share the fight.500
+I serve Achilles; the same gallant bark
+Brought us, and of the Myrmidons am I,
+Son of Polyctor; wealthy is my sire,
+And such in years as thou; six sons he hath,
+Beside myself the seventh, and (the lots cast505
+Among us all) mine sent me to the wars.
+That I have left the ships, seeking the plain,
+The cause is this; the Greeks, at break of day,
+Will compass, arm’d, the city, for they loathe
+To sit inactive, neither can the chiefs510
+Restrain the hot impatience of the host.
+  Then godlike Priam answer thus return’d.
+If of the band thou be of Peleus’ son,
+Achilles, tell me undisguised the truth.
+My son, subsists he still, or hath thy chief515
+Limb after limb given him to his dogs?
+  Him answer’d then the herald of the skies.
+Oh venerable sir! him neither dogs
+Have eaten yet, nor fowls, but at the ships
+His body, and within Achilles’ tent520
+Neglected lies. Twelve days he so hath lain;
+Yet neither worm which diets on the brave
+In battle fallen, hath eaten him, or taint
+Invaded. He around Patroclus’ tomb
+Drags him indeed pitiless, oft as day525
+Reddens the east, yet safe from blemish still
+His corse remains. Thou wouldst, thyself, admire
+Seeing how fresh the dew-drops, as he lies,
+Rest on him, and his blood is cleansed away
+That not a stain is left. Even his wounds530
+(For many a wound they gave him) all are closed,
+Such care the blessed Gods have of thy son,
+Dead as he is, whom living much they loved.
+  So he; then, glad, the ancient King replied.
+Good is it, oh my son! to yield the Gods535
+Their just demands. My boy, while yet he lived,
+Lived not unmindful of the worship due
+To the Olympian powers, who, therefore, him
+Remember, even in the bands of death.
+Come then—this beauteous cup take at my hand—540
+Be thou my guard, and, if the Gods permit,
+My guide, till to Achilles’ tent I come.
+  Whom answer’d then the messenger of heaven.
+Sir! thou perceivest me young, and art disposed
+To try my virtue; but it shall not fail.545
+Thou bidd’st me at thine hand a gift accept,
+Whereof Achilles knows not; but I fear
+Achilles, and on no account should dare
+Defraud him, lest some evil find me next.
+But thee I would with pleasure hence conduct550
+Even to glorious Argos, over sea
+Or over land, nor any, through contempt
+Of such a guard, should dare to do thee wrong.
+  So Mercury, and to the chariot seat
+Upspringing, seized at once the lash and reins,555
+And with fresh vigor mules and steeds inspired.
+Arriving at the foss and towers, they found
+The guard preparing now their evening cheer,
+All whom the Argicide with sudden sleep
+Oppress’d, then oped the gates, thrust back the bars,560
+And introduced, with all his litter-load
+Of costly gifts, the venerable King.
+But when they reached the tent for Peleus’ son
+Raised by the Myrmidons (with trunks of pine
+They built it, lopping smooth the boughs away,555
+Then spread with shaggy mowings of the mead
+Its lofty roof, and with a spacious court
+Surrounded it, all fenced with driven stakes;
+One bar alone of pine secured the door,
+Which ask’d three Grecians with united force570
+To thrust it to its place, and three again
+To thrust it back, although Achilles oft
+Would heave it to the door himself alone;)
+Then Hermes, benefactor of mankind,
+That bar displacing for the King of Troy,575
+Gave entrance to himself and to his gifts
+For Peleus’ son design’d, and from the seat
+Alighting, thus his speech to Priam turn’d.
+  Oh ancient Priam! an immortal God
+Attends thee; I am Hermes, by command580
+Of Jove my father thy appointed guide.
+But I return. I will not, entering here,
+Stand in Achilles’ sight; immortal Powers
+May not so unreservedly indulge
+Creatures of mortal kind. But enter thou,585
+Embrace his knees, and by his father both
+And by his Goddess mother sue to him,
+And by his son, that his whole heart may melt.
+  So Hermes spake, and to the skies again
+Ascended. Then leap’d Priam to the ground,590
+Leaving Idæus; he, the mules and steeds
+Watch’d, while the ancient King into the tent
+Proceeded of Achilles dear to Jove.
+Him there he found, and sitting found apart
+His fellow-warriors, of whom two alone595
+Served at his side, Alcimus, branch of Mars
+And brave Automedon; he had himself
+Supp’d newly, and the board stood unremoved.
+Unseen of all huge Priam enter’d, stood
+Near to Achilles, clasp’d his knees, and kiss’d600
+Those terrible and homicidal hands
+That had destroy’d so many of his sons.
+As when a fugitive for blood the house
+Of some chief enters in a foreign land,
+All gaze, astonish’d at the sudden guest,605
+So gazed Achilles seeing Priam there,
+And so stood all astonish’d, each his eyes
+In silence fastening on his fellow’s face.
+But Priam kneel’d, and suppliant thus began.
+  Think, oh Achilles, semblance of the Gods!610
+On thy own father full of days like me,
+And trembling on the gloomy verge of life.[12]
+Some neighbor chief, it may be, even now
+Oppresses him, and there is none at hand,
+No friend to suocor him in his distress.615
+Yet, doubtless, hearing that Achilles lives,
+He still rejoices, hoping, day by day,
+That one day he shall see the face again
+Of his own son from distant Troy return’d.
+But me no comfort cheers, whose bravest sons,620
+So late the flower of Ilium, all are slain.
+When Greece came hither, I had fifty sons;
+Nineteen were children of one bed, the rest
+Born of my concubines. A numerous house!
+But fiery Mars hath thinn’d it. One I had,625
+One, more than all my sons the strength of Troy,
+Whom standing for his country thou hast slain—
+Hector—his body to redeem I come
+Into Achaia’s fleet, bringing, myself,
+Ransom inestimable to thy tent.630
+Reverence the Gods, Achilles! recollect
+Thy father; for his sake compassion show
+To me more pitiable still, who draw
+Home to my lips (humiliation yet
+Unseen on earth) his hand who slew my son.635
+  So saying, he waken’d in his soul regret
+Of his own sire; softly he placed his hand
+On Priam’s hand, and push’d him gently away.
+Remembrance melted both. Rolling before
+Achilles’ feet, Priam his son deplored640
+Wide-slaughtering Hector, and Achilles wept
+By turns his father, and by turns his friend
+Patroclus; sounds of sorrow fill’d the tent.
+But when, at length satiate, Achilles felt
+His heart from grief, and all his frame relieved,645
+Upstarting from his seat, with pity moved
+Of Priam’s silver locks and silver beard,
+He raised the ancient father by his hand,
+Whom in wing’d accents kind he thus bespake.
+  Wretched indeed! ah what must thou have felt!650
+How hast thou dared to seek alone the fleet
+Of the Achaians, and his face by whom
+So many of thy valiant sons have fallen?
+Thou hast a heart of iron, terror-proof.
+Come—sit beside me—let us, if we may,665
+Great mourners both, bid sorrow sleep awhile.
+There is no profit of our sighs and tears;
+For thus, exempt from care themselves, the Gods
+Ordain man’s miserable race to mourn.
+Fast by the threshold of Jove’s courts are placed660
+Two casks, one stored with evil, one with good,
+From which the God dispenses as he wills.
+For whom the glorious Thunderer mingles both,
+He leads a life checker’d with good and ill
+Alternate; but to whom he gives unmixt665
+The bitter cup, he makes that man a curse,
+His name becomes a by-word of reproach,
+His strength is hunger-bitten, and he walks
+The blessed earth, unblest, go where he may.
+So was my father Peleus at his birth670
+Nobly endow’d with plenty and with wealth
+Distinguish’d by the Gods past all mankind,
+Lord of the Myrmidons, and, though a man,
+Yet match’d from heaven with an immortal bride.
+But even him the Gods afflict, a son675
+Refusing him, who might possess his throne
+Hereafter; for myself, his only heir,
+Pass as a dream, and while I live, instead
+Of solacing his age, here sit, before
+Your distant walls, the scourge of thee and thine.680
+Thee also, ancient Priam, we have heard
+Reported, once possessor of such wealth
+As neither Lesbos, seat of Macar, owns,
+Nor eastern Phrygia, nor yet all the ports
+Of Hellespont, but thou didst pass them all685
+In riches, and in number of thy sons.
+But since the Powers of heaven brought on thy land
+This fatal war, battle and deeds of death
+Always surround the city where thou reign’st.
+Cease, therefore, from unprofitable tears,690
+Which, ere they raise thy son to life again
+Shall, doubtless, find fresh cause for which to flow.
+  To whom the ancient King godlike replied.
+Hero, forbear. No seat is here for me,
+While Hector lies unburied in your camp.695
+Loose him, and loose him now, that with these eyes
+I may behold my son; accept a price
+Magnificent, which may’st thou long enjoy,
+And, since my life was precious in thy sight,
+May’st thou revisit safe thy native shore!700
+  To whom Achilles, lowering, and in wrath.[13]
+Urge me no longer, at a time like this,
+With that harsh note; I am already inclin’d
+To loose him. Thetis, my own mother came
+Herself on that same errand, sent from Jove.705
+Priam! I understand thee well. I know
+That, by some God conducted, thou hast reach’d
+Achaia’s fleet; for, without aid divine,
+No mortal even in his prime of youth,
+Had dared the attempt; guards vigilant as ours710
+He should not easily elude, such gates,
+So massy, should not easily unbar.
+Thou, therefore, vex me not in my distress,
+Lest I abhor to see thee in my tent,
+And, borne beyond all limits, set at nought715
+Thee, and thy prayer, and the command of Jove.
+  He said; the old King trembled, and obey’d.
+Then sprang Pelides like a lion forth,
+Not sole, but with his two attendant friends
+Alcimus and Automedon the brave,720
+For them (Patroclus slain) he honor’d most
+Of all the Myrmidons. They from the yoke
+Released both steeds and mules, then introduced
+And placed the herald of the hoary King.
+They lighten’d next the litter of its charge725
+Inestimable, leaving yet behind
+Two mantles and a vest, that, not unveil’d,
+The body might be borne back into Troy.
+Then, calling forth his women, them he bade
+Lave and anoint the body, but apart,730
+Lest haply Priam, noticing his son,
+Through stress of grief should give resentment scope,
+And irritate by some affront himself
+To slay him, in despite of Jove’s commands.[14]
+They, therefore, laving and anointing first735
+The body, cover’d it with cloak and vest;
+Then, Peleus’ son disposed it on the bier,
+Lifting it from the ground, and his two friends
+Together heaved it to the royal wain.
+Achilles, last, groaning, his friend invoked.740
+
+  Patroclus! should the tidings reach thine ear,
+Although in Ades, that I have released
+The noble Hector at his father’s suit,
+Resent it not; no sordid gifts have paid
+His ransom-price, which thou shalt also share.745
+  So saying, Achilles to his tent return’d,
+And on the splendid couch whence he had risen
+Again reclined, opposite to the seat
+Of Priam, whom the hero thus bespake.
+  Priam! at thy request thy son is loosed,750
+And lying on his bier; at dawn of day
+Thou shalt both see him and convey him hence
+Thyself to Troy. But take we now repast;
+For even bright-hair’d Niobe her food
+Forgat not, though of children twelve bereft,755
+Of daughters six, and of six blooming sons.
+Apollo these struck from his silver bow,
+And those shaft-arm’d Diana, both incensed
+That oft Latona’s children and her own
+Numbering, she scorn’d the Goddess who had borne760
+Two only, while herself had twelve to boast.
+Vain boast! those two sufficed to slay them all.
+Nine days they welter’d in their blood, no man
+Was found to bury them, for Jove had changed
+To stone the people; but themselves, at last,765
+The Powers of heaven entomb’d them on the tenth.
+Yet even she, once satisfied with tears,
+Remember’d food; and now the rocks among
+And pathless solitudes of Sipylus,
+The rumor’d cradle of the nymphs who dance770
+On Acheloüs’ banks, although to stone
+Transform’d, she broods her heaven-inflicted woes.
+Come, then, my venerable guest! take we
+Refreshment also; once arrived in Troy
+With thy dear son, thou shalt have time to weep775
+Sufficient, nor without most weighty cause.
+  So spake Achilles, and, upstarting, slew
+A sheep white-fleeced, which his attendants flay’d,
+And busily and with much skill their task
+Administ’ring, first scored the viands well,780
+Then pierced them with the spits, and when the roast
+Was finish’d, drew them from the spits again.
+And now, Automedon dispensed around
+The polish’d board bread in neat baskets piled,
+Which done, Achilles portion’d out to each785
+His share, and all assail’d the ready feast.
+But when nor hunger more nor thirst they felt,
+Dardanian Priam, wond’ring at his bulk
+And beauty (for he seem’d some God from heaven)
+Gazed on Achilles, while Achilles held790
+Not less in admiration of his looks
+Benign, and of his gentle converse wise,
+Gazed on Dardanian Priam, and, at length
+(The eyes of each gratified to the full)
+The ancient King thus to Achilles spake.795
+  Hero! dismiss us now each to our bed,
+That there at ease reclined, we may enjoy
+Sweet sleep; for never have these eyelids closed
+Since Hector fell and died, but without cease
+I mourn, and nourishing unnumber’d woes,800
+Have roll’d me in the ashes of my courts.
+But I have now both tasted food, and given
+Wine to my lips, untasted till with thee.
+  So he, and at his word Achilles bade
+His train beneath his portico prepare805
+With all dispatch two couches, purple rugs,
+And arras, and warm mantles over all.
+Forth went the women bearing lights, and spread
+A couch for each, when feigning needful fear,[15]
+Achilles thus his speech to Priam turn’d.810
+  My aged guest beloved; sleep thou without;
+Lest some Achaian chief (for such are wont
+Ofttimes, here sitting, to consult with me)
+Hither repair; of whom should any chance
+To spy thee through the gloom, he would at once815
+Convey the tale to Agamemnon’s ear,
+Whence hindrance might arise, and the release
+Haply of Hector’s body be delay’d.
+But answer me with truth. How many days
+Wouldst thou assign to the funereal rites820
+Of noble Hector, for so long I mean
+Myself to rest, and keep the host at home?
+  Then thus the ancient King godlike replied.
+If thou indeed be willing that we give
+Burial to noble Hector, by an act825
+So generous, O Achilles! me thou shalt
+Much gratify; for we are shut, thou know’st,
+In Ilium close, and fuel must procure
+From Ida’s side remote; fear, too, hath seized
+On all our people. Therefore thus I say.830
+Nine days we wish to mourn him in the house;
+To his interment we would give the tenth,
+And to the public banquet; the eleventh
+Shall see us build his tomb; and on the twelfth
+(If war we must) we will to war again.835
+  To whom Achilles, matchless in the race.
+So be it, ancient Priam! I will curb
+Twelve days the rage of war, at thy desire.[16]
+  He spake, and at his wrist the right hand grasp’d
+Of the old sovereign, to dispel his fear.840
+Then in the vestibule the herald slept
+And Priam, prudent both, but Peleus’ son
+In the interior tent, and at his side
+Brisëis, with transcendent beauty adorn’d.
+
+  Now all, all night, by gentle sleep subdued,845
+Both Gods and chariot-ruling warriors lay,
+But not the benefactor of mankind,
+Hermes; him sleep seized not, but deep he mused
+How likeliest from amid the Grecian fleet
+He might deliver by the guard unseen850
+The King of Ilium; at his head he stood
+In vision, and the senior thus bespake.
+  Ah heedless and secure! hast thou no dread
+Of mischief, ancient King, that thus by foes
+Thou sleep’st surrounded, lull’d by the consent855
+And sufferance of Achilles? Thou hast given
+Much for redemption of thy darling son,
+But thrice that sum thy sons who still survive
+Must give to Agamemnon and the Greeks
+For _thy_ redemption, should they know thee here.860
+  He ended; at the sound alarm’d upsprang
+The King, and roused his herald. Hermes yoked
+Himself both mules and steeds, and through the camp
+Drove them incontinent, by all unseen.
+  Soon as the windings of the stream they reach’d,865
+Deep-eddied Xanthus, progeny of Jove,
+Mercury the Olympian summit sought,
+And saffron-vested morn o’erspread the earth.
+They, loud lamenting, to the city drove
+Their steeds; the mules close follow’d with the dead.870
+Nor warrior yet, nor cinctured matron knew
+Of all in Ilium aught of their approach,
+Cassandra sole except. She, beautiful
+As golden Venus, mounted on the height
+Of Pergamus, her father first discern’d,875
+Borne on his chariot-seat erect, and knew:
+The herald heard so oft in echoing Troy;
+Him also on his bier outstretch’d she mark’d,
+Whom the mules drew. Then, shrieking, through the streets
+She ran of Troy, and loud proclaim’d the sight.880
+Ye sons of Ilium and ye daughters, haste,
+Haste all to look on Hector, if ye e’er
+With joy beheld him, while he yet survived,
+From fight returning; for all Ilium erst
+In him, and all her citizens rejoiced.885
+  She spake. Then neither male nor female more
+In Troy remain’d, such sorrow seized on all.
+Issuing from the city-gate, they met
+Priam conducting, sad, the body home,
+And, foremost of them all, the mother flew890
+And wife of Hector to the bier, on which
+Their torn-off tresses with unsparing hands
+They shower’d, while all the people wept around.
+All day, and to the going down of day
+They thus had mourn’d the dead before the gates,895
+Had not their Sovereign from his chariot-seat
+Thus spoken to the multitude around.
+  Fall back on either side, and let the mules
+Pass on; the body in my palace once
+Deposited, ye then may weep your fill.900
+  He said; they, opening, gave the litter way.
+Arrived within the royal house, they stretch’d
+The breathless Hector on a sumptuous bed,
+And singers placed beside him, who should chant
+The strain funereal; they with many a groan905
+The dirge began, and still, at every close,
+The female train with many a groan replied.
+Then, in the midst, Andromache white-arm’d
+Between her palms the dreadful Hector’s head
+Pressing, her lamentation thus began.910
+  [17]My hero! thou hast fallen in prime of life,
+Me leaving here desolate, and the fruit
+Of our ill-fated loves, a helpless child,
+Whom grown to manhood I despair to see.
+For ere that day arrive, down from her height915
+Precipitated shall this city fall,
+Since thou hast perish’d once her sure defence,
+Faithful protector of her spotless wives,
+And all their little ones. Those wives shall soon
+In Grecian barks capacious hence be borne,920
+And I among the rest. But thee, my child!
+Either thy fate shall with thy mother send
+Captive into a land where thou shalt serve
+In sordid drudgery some cruel lord,
+Or haply some Achaian here, thy hand925
+Seizing, shall hurl thee from a turret-top
+To a sad death, avenging brother, son,
+Or father by the hands of Hector slain;
+For he made many a Grecian bite the ground.
+Thy father, boy, bore never into fight930
+A milky mind, and for that self-same cause
+Is now bewail’d in every house of Troy.
+Sorrow unutterable thou hast caused
+Thy parents, Hector! but to me hast left
+Largest bequest of misery, to whom,935
+Dying, thou neither didst thy arms extend
+Forth from thy bed, nor gavest me precious word
+To be remember’d day and night with tears.
+  So spake she weeping, whom her maidens all
+With sighs accompanied, and her complaint940
+Mingled with sobs Hecuba next began.
+  Ah Hector! dearest to thy mother’s heart
+Of all her sons, much must the Gods have loved
+Thee living, whom, though dead, they thus preserve.
+What son soever of our house beside945
+Achilles took, over the barren deep
+To Samos, Imbrus, or to Lemnos girt
+With rocks inhospitable, him he sold;
+But thee, by his dread spear of life deprived,
+He dragg’d and dragg’d around Patroclus’ tomb,950
+As if to raise again his friend to life
+Whom thou hadst vanquish’d; yet he raised him not.
+But as for thee, thou liest here with dew
+Besprinkled, fresh as a young plant,[18] and more
+Resemblest some fair youth by gentle shafts955
+Of Phœbus pierced, than one in battle slain.
+  So spake the Queen, exciting in all hearts
+Sorrow immeasurable, after whom
+Thus Helen, third, her lamentation pour’d.
+  [19]Ah dearer far than all my brothers else960
+Of Priam’s house! for being Paris’ spouse,
+Who brought me (would I had first died!) to Troy,
+I call thy brothers mine; since forth I came
+From Sparta, it is now the twentieth year,
+Yet never heard I once hard speech from thee,965
+Or taunt morose, but if it ever chanced,
+That of thy father’s house female or male
+Blamed me, and even if herself the Queen
+(For in the King, whate’er befell, I found
+Always a father) thou hast interposed970
+Thy gentle temper and thy gentle speech
+To soothe them; therefore, with the same sad drops
+Thy fate, oh Hector! and my own I weep;
+For other friend within the ample bounds
+Of Ilium have I none, nor hope to hear975
+Kind word again, with horror view’d by all.
+  So Helen spake weeping, to whom with groans
+The countless multitude replied, and thus
+Their ancient sovereign next his people charged.
+  Ye Trojans, now bring fuel home, nor fear980
+Close ambush of the Greeks; Achilles’ self
+Gave me, at my dismission from his fleet,
+Assurance, that from hostile force secure
+We shall remain, till the twelfth dawn arise.
+  All, then, their mules and oxen to the wains985
+Join’d speedily, and under Ilium’s walls
+Assembled numerous; nine whole days they toil’d,
+Bringing much fuel home, and when the tenth
+Bright morn, with light for human kind, arose,
+Then bearing noble Hector forth, with tears990
+Shed copious, on the summit of the pile
+They placed him, and the fuel fired beneath.
+  But when Aurora, daughter of the Dawn,
+Redden’d the east, then, thronging forth, all Troy
+Encompass’d noble Hector’s pile around.995
+The whole vast multitude convened, with wine
+They quench’d the pile throughout, leaving no part
+Unvisited, on which the fire had seized.
+His brothers, next, collected, and his friends,
+His white bones, mourning, and with tears profuse1000
+Watering their cheeks; then in a golden urn
+They placed them, which with mantles soft they veil’d
+Mæonian-hued, and, delving, buried it,
+And overspread with stones the spot adust.
+Lastly, short time allowing to the task,1005
+They heap’d his tomb, while, posted on all sides,
+Suspicious of assault, spies watch’d the Greeks.
+The tomb once heap’d, assembling all again
+Within the palace, they a banquet shared
+Magnificent, by godlike Priam given.1010
+
+Such burial the illustrious Hector found.[20]
+
+
+[I cannot take my leave of this noble poem, without expressing how much
+I am struck with this plain conclusion of it. It is like the exit of a
+great man out of company whom he has entertained magnificently; neither
+pompous nor familiar; not contemptuous, yet without much ceremony. I
+recollect nothing, among the works of mere man, that exemplifies so
+strongly the true style of great antiquity.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+FOOTNOTES
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book I:
+
+
+“Latona’s son and Jove’s,” was Apollo, the tutelary deity of the
+Dorians. The Dorians had not, however, at this early age, become the
+predominant race in Greece proper. They had spread along the eastern
+shores of the Archipelago into the islands, especially Crete, and had
+every where signalized themselves by the Temples of Apollo, of which
+there seems to have been many in and about Troy. These temples were
+schools of art, and prove the Dorians to have been both intellectual
+and powerful. Homer was an Ionian, and therefore not deeply acquainted
+with the nature of the Dorian god. But to a mind like his, the god of a
+people so cultivated, and associated with what was most grand in art,
+must have been an imposing being, and we find him so represented.
+Throughout the Iliad, he appears and acts with splendor and effect, but
+always against the Greeks from mere partiality to Hector. It would
+perhaps be too much to say, that in this partiality to Hector, we
+detect the spirit of the Dorian worship, the only Paganism of antiquity
+that tended to perfect the individual—Apollo being the expression of
+the moral harmony of the universe, and the great spirit of the Dorian
+culture being to make a perfect man, an incarnation of the
+κοσμος. This Homer could only have known intuitively.
+
+In making Apollo author of the plague, he was confounded with Helios,
+which was frequent afterwards, but is not seen elsewhere in Homer. The
+arrows of Apollo were “silent as light,” and their emblem the sun’s
+rays. The analogies are multitudinous between the natural and
+intellectual sun; but Helios and Apollo were two.—E.P.P.
+
+There is something exceedingly venerable in this appearance of the
+priest. He comes with the ensigns of the gods to whom he belongs, with
+the laurel wreath, to show that he was a suppliant, and a golden
+sceptre, which the ancients gave in particular to Apollo, as they did
+one of silver to Diana.
+
+The art of this speech is remarkable. Chryses considers the army of
+Greeks, as made up of troops, partly from the kingdoms and partly from
+democracies, and therefore begins with a distinction that includes all.
+Then, as priest of Apollo, he prays that they may obtain the two
+blessings they most desire—the conquest of Troy and a safe return. As
+he names his petition, he offers an extraordinary ransom, and concludes
+with bidding them fear the god if they refuse it; like one who from his
+office seems to foretell their misery, and exhorts them to shun it.
+Thus he endeavors to work by the art of a general application, by
+religion, by interest, and the insinuation of danger.
+
+Homer is frequently eloquent in his silence. Chryses says not a word in
+answer to the insults of Agamemnon, but walks pensively along the
+shore. The melancholy flowing of the verse admirably expresses the
+condition of the mournful and deserted father.
+
+[So called on account of his having saved the people of Troas from a
+plague of mice, _sminthos_ in their language meaning a mouse.—Tr.]
+
+Apollo had temples at Chrysa, Tenedos, and Cilla, all of which lay
+round the bay of Troas. Müller remarks, that “the temple actually stood
+in the situation referred to, and that the appellation of Smintheus was
+still preserved in the district. Thus far actual circumstances are
+embodied in the mythus. On the other hand, the action of the deity as
+such, is purely ideal, and can have no other foundation than the belief
+that Apollo sternly resents ill usage of his priests, and that too in
+the way here represented, viz., by sending plagues. This belief is in
+perfect harmony with the idea generally entertained of the power and
+agency of Apollo; and it is manifest that the idea placed in
+combination with certain events, gave birth to the story so far as
+relates to the god. We have not yet the means of ascertaining whether
+it is to be regarded as a historical tradition, or an invention, and
+must therefore leave that question for the present undecided.”
+
+The poet is careful to leave no prayer unanswered that has justice on
+its side. He who prays either kills his enemy, or has signs given him
+that he has been heard.
+
+[For this singular line the Translator begs to apologize, by pleading
+the strong desire he felt to produce an English line, if possible,
+somewhat resembling in its effect the famous original one.
+
+Δεινη δε κλαγγη γενετ αργυρεοιο βιοιο.—Tr.]
+
+The plague in the Grecian camp was occasioned perhaps by immoderate
+heats and gross exhalations. Homer takes occasion from it, to open the
+scene with a beautiful allegory. He supposes that such afflictions are
+sent from Heaven for the punishment of evil actions; and because the
+sun was the principal agent, he says it was sent to punish Agamemnon
+for despising that god, and injuring his priest.
+
+Hippocrates observes two things of plagues; that their cause is in the
+air, and that different animals are differently affected by them,
+according to their nature and nourishment. This philosophy is referred
+to the plagues here mentioned. First, the cause is in the air by means
+of the darts or beams of Apollo; second, the mules and dogs are said to
+die sooner than the men, partly from their natural quickness of smell,
+and partly from their feeding so near the earth whence the exhalations
+arise.
+
+Juno, queen of Olympus, sides with the Grecians. Mr. Coleridge (in his
+disquisition upon the Prometheus of Æschylus, published in his Remains)
+shows very clearly by historical criticism, that Juno, in the Grecian
+religion, expressed the spirit of conservatism. Without going over his
+argument we assume it here, for Homer always attributes to Juno every
+thing that may be predicated of this principle. She is persistent,
+obstinate, acts from no idea, but often uses a superficial reasoning,
+and refers to Fate, with which she upbraids Jupiter. Jupiter is the
+intellectual power or Free Will, and by their union, or rather from
+their antagonism, the course of things proceeds with perpetual
+vicissitude, but with a great deal of life.—E.P.P.
+
+Observe this Grecian priest. He has no political power, and commands
+little reverence. In Agamemnon’s treatment of him, as well as Chryses,
+is seen the relation of the religion to the government. It was neither
+master nor slave.—E.P.P.
+
+A district of Thessaly forming a part of the larger district of
+Phthiotis. Phthiotis, according to Strabo, included all the southern
+portion of that country as far as Mount Œta and the Maliac Gulf. To the
+west it bordered on Dolopia, and on the east reached the confines of
+Magnesia. Homer comprised within this extent of territory the districts
+of Phthia and Hellas properly so called, and, generally speaking, the
+dominions of Achilles, together with those of Protesilaus and
+Eurypylus.
+
+Κυνωπα.
+
+μεγαναιδες.
+
+Agamemnon’s anger is that of a lover, and Achilles’ that of a warrior.
+Agamemnon speaks of Chrysëis as a beauty whom he values too much to
+resign. Achilles treats Brisëis as a slave, whom he is anxious to
+preserve in point of honor, and as a testimony of his glory. Hence he
+mentions her only as “his spoil,” “the reward of war,” etc.;
+accordingly he relinquishes her not in grief for a favorite whom he
+loses, but in sullenness for the injury done him.—Dacier.
+
+Jupiter, in the disguise of an ant, deceived Eurymedusa, the daughter
+of Cleitos. Her son was for this reason called Myrmidon (from μυρμηξ,
+an ant), and was regarded as the ancestor of the Myrmidons in
+Thessaly.—Smith.
+
+According to the belief of the ancients, the gods were supposed to have
+a peculiar light in their eyes. That Homer was not ignorant of this
+opinion appears from his use of it in other places.
+
+Minerva is the goddess of the art of war rather than of war itself. And
+this fable of her descent is an allegory of Achilles restraining his
+wrath through his consideration of martial law and order. This law in
+that age, prescribed that a subordinate should not draw his sword upon
+the commander of all, but allowed a liberty of speech which appears to
+us moderns rather out of order.—E.P.P.
+
+[The shield of Jupiter, made by Vulcan, and so called from its
+covering, which was the skin of the goat that suckled him.—Tr.]
+
+Homer magnifies the ambush as the boldest enterprise of war. They went
+upon those parties with a few only, and generally the most daring of
+the army, and on occasions of the greatest hazard, when the exposure
+was greater than in a regular battle. Idomeneus, in the 13th book,
+tells Meriones that the greatest courage appears in this way of
+service, each man being in a manner singled out to the proof of it.
+
+In the earlier ages of the world, the sceptre of a king was nothing
+more than his walking-staff, and thence had the name of sceptre. Ovid,
+in speaking of Jupiter, describes him as resting on his
+sceptre.—Spence.
+
+From the description here given, it would appear to have been a young
+tree cut from the root and stripped of its branches. It was the custom
+of Kings to swear by their sceptres.
+
+For an account of the contest between the Centaurs and Lapiths here
+referred to, see Grecian and Roman Mythology.
+
+In _antiquity_, a sacrifice of a hundred oxen, or beasts of the same
+kind; hence sometimes _indefinitely_, any sacrifice of a large number
+of victims.
+
+[The original is here abrupt, and expresses the precipitancy of the
+speaker by a most beautiful aposiopesis.—Tr.]
+
+The Iliad, in its connection, is, we all know, a glorification of
+Achilles by Zeus; for the Trojans only prevail because Zeus wishes to
+show that the reposing hero who sits in solitude, can alone conquer
+them. But to leave him this glorification entirely unmixed with sorrow,
+the Grecian sense of moderation forbids. The deepest anguish must
+mingle with his consciousness of fame, and punish his insolence. That
+glorification is the will of Zeus; and in the spirit of the ancient
+mythus, a motive for it is assigned in a divine legend. The sea-goddess
+Thetis, who was, according to the Phthiotic mythus, wedded to the
+mortal Peleus, saved Zeus, by calling up the giant Briareus or Ægæon to
+his rescue. Why it was Ægæon, is explained by the fact that this was a
+great sea-demon, who formed the subject of fables at Poseidonian
+Corinth, where even the sea-god himself was called Ægæon; who,
+moreover, was worshipped at several places in Eubœa, the seat of
+Poseidon Ægæus; and whom the Theogony calls the son-in-law of Poseidon,
+and most of the genealogists, especially Eumelus in the Titanomachy,
+brought into relation with the sea. There is therefore good reason to
+be found in ancient belief, why Thetis called up Ægæon of all others to
+Jove’s assistance. The whole of the story, however, is not detailed—it
+is not much more than indicated—and therefore it would be difficult
+even now to interpret it in a perfectly satisfactory manner. It bears
+the same relation to the Iliad, that the northern fables of the gods,
+which serve as a back-ground to the legend of Nibelungen, bear to our
+German ballad, only that here the separation is much greater
+still—Muller.
+
+Homer makes use of this fable, without reference to its meaning as an
+allegory. Briareus seems to symbolize a navy, and the fable refers to
+some event in remote history, when the reigning power was threatened in
+his autocracy, and strengthened by means of his association with the
+people against some intermediate class.—E.P.P.
+
+επαυρωνται.
+
+[A name by which we are frequently to understand the Nile in
+Homer.—Tr.]
+
+Around the sources of the Nile, and thence south-west into the very
+heart of Africa, stretching away indefinitely over its mountain plains,
+lies the country which the ancients called Ethiopia, rumors of whose
+wonderful people found their way early into Greece, and are scattered
+over the pages of her poets and historians.
+
+Homer wrote at least eight hundred years before Christ, and his poems
+are well ascertained to be a most faithful mirror of the manners of his
+times and the knowledge of his age.  *  *  *  *  *  *
+
+Homer never wastes an epithet. He often alludes to the Ethiopians
+elsewhere, and always in terms of admiration and praise, as being the
+most just of men, and the favorites of the gods. The same allusions
+glimmer through the Greek mythology, and appear in the verses of almost
+all the Greek poets, ere yet the countries of Italy and Sicily were
+even discovered. The Jewish Scriptures and Jewish literature abound in
+allusions to this distant and mysterious people, the annals of the
+Egyptian priests are full of them, and uniformly, the Ethiopians are
+there lauded as among the best, the most religious, and most civilized
+of men.—Christian Examiner.
+
+The Ethiopians, says Diodorus, are said to be the inventors of pomps,
+sacrifices, solemn meetings, and other honors paid to the gods. From
+hence arose their character of piety, which is here celebrated by
+Homer. Among these there was an annual feast at Diospolis, which
+Eustathius mentions, when they carried about the statues of Jupiter and
+other gods, for twelve days, according to their number; to which, if we
+add the ancient custom of setting meat before statues, it will appear
+to be a rite from which this fable might easily have arisen.
+
+[The original word (πολυβενθεος) seems to express variety of soundings,
+an idea probably not to be conveyed in an English epithet.—Tr.]
+
+The following passage gives the most exact account of the ancient
+sacrifices that we have left us. There is first, the purification by
+the washing of hands; second, the offering up of prayers; third, the
+barley-cakes thrown upon the victim; fourth, the manner of killing it,
+with the head turned upwards; fifth, selecting the thighs and fat for
+their gods, as the best of the sacrifice, and disposing about them
+pieces cut from every part for a representation of the whole (hence the
+thighs are frequently spoken of in Homer and the Greek poets as the
+whole victim); sixth, the libation of wine; seventh, consuming the
+thighs in the fire of the altar; eighth, the sacrificers dressing and
+feasting on the rest, with joy and hymns to the gods.
+
+The _Pæan_ (originally sung in honor of Apollo) was a hymn to
+propitiate the god, and also a song of thanksgiving, when freed from
+danger. It was always of a joyous nature. Both tune and sound expressed
+hope and confidence. It was sung by several persons, one of whom
+probably led the others, and the singers either marched onward, or sat
+together at table.
+
+It was the custom to draw the ships entirely upon the shore, and to
+secure them by long props.—Felton
+
+Suppliants threw themselves at the feet of the person to whom the
+supplication was addressed, and embraced his knees.—Felton.
+
+Ambrosia, the food of the gods, conferred upon them eternal youth and
+immortality, and was brought to Jupiter by pigeons. It was also used by
+the gods for anointing the body and hair. Hence the expression,
+ambrosial locks.
+
+The original says, “the ox-eyed goddess,” which furnishes Coleridge
+with one of the hints on which he proceeds in historically identifying
+the Argive Juno with Io and Isis, &c. There is real wit in Homer’s
+making her say to Jupiter, “I never search thy thoughts,” &c. The
+principle of conservatism asks nothing of the intellectual power, but
+blindly contends, reposing upon the instinct of a common sense, which
+leads her always to surmise that something is intended by the
+intellectual power that she shall not like.—E.P.P.
+
+This refers to an old fable of Jupiter’s hanging up Juno and whipping
+her. Homer introduces it without reference to its meaning, which was
+undoubtedly some physical truth connected with the ether and the
+atmosphere.—E.P.P.
+
+[The reader, in order that he may partake with the gods in the drollery
+of this scene, should observe that the crippled and distorted Vulcan
+had thrust himself into an office at all other times administered
+either by Hebe or Ganymede.—Tr.]
+
+As Minerva or Wisdom was among the company, the poet’s making Vulcan
+act the part of peace-maker, would appear to have been from choice,
+knowing that a mirthful person may often stop a quarrel, by making
+himself the subject of merriment.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book II:
+
+
+The poem now becomes more exciting; the language more animated; the
+descriptions more lively and figurative. Homer seems to kindle with his
+subject, and to press all the phenomena of nature into his service for
+the purpose of illustration and adornment. Jupiter prepares to keep his
+promise of avenging Achilles, by drawing Agamemnon into a deceitful
+expectation of taking the city. The forces are arranged for battle,
+which gives occasion for the celebrated catalogue.—Felton.
+
+The whole action of the Dream is natural. It takes the figure of one
+much beloved by Agamemnon, as the object that is most in our thoughts
+when awake, is the one that oftenest appears to us in our dreams, and
+just at the instant of its vanishing, leaves so strong an impression,
+that the voice seems still sounding in his ear.
+
+The Dream also repeats the words of Jupiter without variation, which is
+considered as a great propriety in delivering a message from the father
+of gods and men.
+
+King of Pylus, an ancient city of Elis.
+
+[Agamemnon seems to entertain some doubts lest the army should so
+resent his treatment of their favorite Achilles, as to be indisposed to
+serve him.—Tr.]
+
+[Mercury.]
+
+[Argus.]
+
+Homer, in a happy and poetical manner, acquaints us with the high
+descent of Agamemnon, and traces the origin of his power to the highest
+source, by saying, that the sceptre had descended to him from the hand
+of Jupiter.
+
+The power of Agamemnon as a monarch refers to his being the leader of
+an army. According to the form of royalty in the heroic age, a king had
+only the power of a magistrate, except as he held the office of priest.
+Aristotle defines a king as a Leader of war, a Judge of controversies,
+and President of the ceremonies of the gods. That he had the principal
+care of religious rites, appears from many passages in Homer. His power
+was nowhere absolute but in war, for we find Agamemnon insulted in the
+council, but in the army threatening deserters with death. Agamemnon is
+sometimes styled king of kings, as the other princes had given him
+supreme authority over them in the siege.
+
+[The extremest provocation is implied in this expression, which
+Thersites quotes exactly as he had heard it from the lips of
+Achilles.—Tr.]
+
+The character of Thersites is admirably sketched. There is nothing
+vague and indistinct, but all the traits are so lively, that he stands
+before us like the image of some absurd being whom we have ourselves
+seen. It has been justly remarked by critics, that the poet displays
+great skill in representing the opponents of Agamemnon in the character
+of so base a personage, since nothing could more effectually reconcile
+the Greeks to the continuance of the war, than the ridiculous
+turbulence of Thersites.—Felton.
+
+[Some for πονος here read ποθος; which reading I have adopted for the
+sake both of perspicuity and connection.—Tr.]
+
+The principal signs by which the gods were thought to declare their
+will, were things connected with the offering of sacrifices, the flight
+and voice of birds, all kinds of natural phenomena, ordinary as well as
+extraordinary dreams.
+
+An epithet supposed to have been derived from Gerenia, a Messenian
+town, where Nestor was educated.
+
+In the pictures which Homer draws of him, the most striking features
+are his wisdom, bravery, and knowledge of war, his eloquence, and his
+old age.
+
+For some general remarks upon the heroes of the time, see Grecian and
+Roman Mythology.
+
+In allusion to the custom of pouring out a libation of pure wine, in
+the ceremony of forming a league, and joining right hands, as a pledge
+of mutual fidelity after the sacrifice.—Felton.
+
+[Nestor is supposed here to glance at Achilles.—Tr.]
+
+Homer here exalts wisdom over valor.
+
+[Money stamped with the figure of an ox.]—Tr.
+
+The encouragement of a divine power, seemed all that was requisite to
+change the dispositions of the Grecians, and make them more ardent for
+combat than they had previously been to return. This conquers their
+inclinations in a manner at once poetical and in keeping with the moral
+which is every where spread through Homer, that nothing is accomplished
+without divine assistance.
+
+Homer’s rich invention gives us five beautiful similes on the march of
+the army. This profusion and variety can never be sufficiently admired.
+
+The superior knowledge that the poet here attributes to the Muses as
+divine beings, and then his occasional invocations to them, gives an
+air of importance to his subject and has an imposing effect.
+
+However fabulous the other parts of Homer’s poems may be, this account
+of the princes, people, and countries, is by far the most valuable
+piece of history and geography left us in regard to the state of Greece
+in that early period. Greece was then divided into several dynasties,
+which Homer has enumerated under their respective princes; and his
+division was considered so correct, that many disputes respecting the
+boundaries of Grecian cities were decided upon his authority.
+Eustathius has collected together the following instances: The city of
+Calydon was adjudged to the Ætolians, notwithstanding the pretensions
+of Æolia, because it was ranked by Homer as belonging to the former.
+Sestos was given to those of Abydos, upon the plea that he had said the
+Abydonians were possessors of Sestos, Abydos, and Arisbe. When the
+Milesians and people of Priene disputed their claim to Mycale, a verse
+of Homer gave it to the Milesians. The Athenians were put in possession
+of Salamis by another which was cited by Solon, or (according to some)
+interpolated by him for that purpose; and Porphyry says, that the
+catalogue was so highly esteemed, that the youths of some nations were
+required to commit it to memory.
+
+Professor Felton remarks, “The student is advised to give particular
+attention to this important passage. He will find it the most
+interesting fragment of geography extant; interesting for the poetical
+beauty of the verse, the regular order which is followed, and the
+little characteristic touches which denote the peculiarities of the
+several provinces. The more he examines this catalogue with the
+subsidiary lights of geography, history and travels, the more cause
+will he find of wonder, that a description so ancient should combine so
+much accuracy, beauty, and interest. It is recommended to the student,
+to trace the provinces and cities on some good map of ancient Greece.”
+
+[Some say Thebes the less, others, the suburbs of Thebes the greater.
+It is certain that Thebes itself sent none.—Tr.]
+
+It was the custom of these people to shave the fore parts of their
+heads, that their enemies might not seize them by the hair; on the
+hinder part they allowed it to grow, as a valiant race that would never
+turn their backs. Their manner of fighting was hand to hand, without
+quitting their javelins.
+
+Menelaus is occasionally distinguished by his activity, which shows his
+personal concern in the war.
+
+The Arcadians, being an inland people, were unskilled in navigation,
+for which reason Agamemnon furnished them with shipping.
+
+Nireus is nowhere mentioned as a leader but in these lines. As rank and
+beauty were his only qualifications, he is allowed to sink into
+oblivion.
+
+The mud of the Peneus is of a light color, for which reason Homer gives
+it the epithet of silvery. The Titaresius, and other small streams
+which are rolled from Olympus and Ossa, are so extremely clear, that
+their waters are distinguished from those of the Peneus for a
+considerable distance from the point of their confluence.—Dodwell.
+
+Dr. Clarke, in his travels, describes this tomb as a conical mound; and
+says that it is the spot of all others for viewing the plain of Troy,
+as it is visible in all parts of Troas. From its top may be traced the
+course of the Scamander, the whole chain of Ida, stretching towards
+Lectum, the snowy heights of Gargarus, and all the shores of
+Hellespont, near the mouth of the river Sigæum and the other tumuli
+upon the coast.
+
+A patronymic given to Achilles as descendant of Æacus, father of
+Peleus.
+
+A river of Troas in Asia Minor, the same as the Scamander.
+
+This expression is construed by critics as denoting an unpolished
+dialect, but not a foreign.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book III:
+
+
+The scenes described in this book are exceedingly lifesome. The figures
+are animating and beautiful, and the mind of the reader is borne along
+with breathless interest over the sonorous verse.—Felton.
+
+This is a striking simile, from its exactness in two points—the noise
+and the order. It has been supposed that the embattling of an army was
+first learned by observing the close order of the flight of these
+birds. The noise of the Trojans contrasts strongly with the silence of
+the Greeks. Plutarch remarks upon this distinction as a credit to the
+military discipline of the latter, and Homer would seem to have
+attached some importance to it, as he again alludes to the same thing.
+Book iv. 510.
+
+[Paris, frequently named Alexander in the original.—Tr.]
+
+Not from cowardice, but from a sense of guilt towards Menelaus. At the
+head of an army he challenges the boldest of the enemy; and Hector, at
+the end of the Sixth Book, confesses that no man could reproach him as
+a coward. Homer has a fine moral;—A brave mind, however blinded with
+passion, is sensible of remorse whenever he meets the person whom he
+has injured; and Paris is never made to appear cowardly, but when
+overcome by the consciousness of his injustice.
+
+[Λαινον εσσο χιτωνα]
+
+In allusion to the Oriental custom of stoning to death for the crime of
+adultery.—Felton.
+
+The sling was a very efficacious and important instrument in ancient
+warfare. Stones were also thrown with the hand. The Libyans carried no
+other arms than the spear and a bag of stones.
+
+The Trojans were required to sacrifice two lambs; one male of a white
+color to the Sun, as the father of light, and one female and black to
+the Earth, the mother and nurse of men. That these were the powers to
+which they sacrificed appears from their being attested by name in the
+oath. III. 330.
+
+Helen’s weaving the events of the Trojan war in a veil is an agreeable
+fiction; and one might suppose that it was inherited by Homer, and
+explained in his Iliad.—Dacier.
+
+[Not the grasshopper, but an insect well known in hot countries, and
+which in Italy is called Cicála. The grasshopper rests on the ground,
+but the favorite abode of the Cicála is in the trees and hedges.—Tr.]
+
+This episode is remarkable for its beauty. The effect of Helen’s
+appearance upon the aged counsellors is striking and poetical. It must
+be borne in mind, that Helen was of divine parentage and unfading
+beauty, and this will explain the enthusiasm which her sight called
+forth from the old men. The poet’s skill in taking this method of
+describing the Grecian chieftains is obvious, and the sketches
+themselves are living and characteristic to a high degree. The
+reminiscences of the aged Priam, as their names are announced, and the
+penitential sorrow of the erring Helen, which the sight of her
+countrymen, and the recollection of her home, her child, her
+companions, excite in her bosom, are among the most skilful touches of
+natural feeling.—Felton.
+
+The character of a benevolent old man is well preserved in Priam’s
+behavior to Helen. Upon observing her confusion, he attributes the
+misfortunes of the war to the gods alone. This sentiment is also
+natural to old age. Those who have had the longest experience of life,
+are the most inclined to ascribe the disposal of all things to the will
+of Heaven.
+
+This view of the Grecian leaders from the walls of Troy, is admired as
+an episode of great beauty, and considered a masterly manner of
+acquainting the reader with the figure and qualifications of each hero.
+
+Helen sees no where in the plain her two brothers Castor and Pollux.
+Her inquiry is a natural one, and her self-reproach naturally suggests
+her own disgrace as the cause of their not appearing among the other
+commanders. The two lines in which the poet mentions their death are
+simple and touching.—Felton.
+
+Homer here gives the whole ceremonial of the solemn oath, as it was
+then observed by the nations of whom he writes.
+
+It must be borne in mind that sacrificing was the most solemn act of
+religion, and that kings were also chief-priests.
+
+The armor of both Greeks and Trojans consisted of six portions, and was
+always put on in the order here given. The greaves were for the defence
+of the legs. They were made of some kind of metal, and probably lined
+with cloth or felt. The cuirass or corselet for the body, was made of
+horn cut in thin pieces and fastened upon linen cloth, one piece
+overlapping another. The sword hung on the left side by means of a belt
+which passed over the right shoulder. The large round shield, sometimes
+made of osiers twisted together and covered with several ox-hides, and
+bound round the edge with metal. In the Homeric times it was supported
+by a belt; subsequently a band was placed across the inner side, in
+which the left arm was inserted, and a strong leather strap fastened
+near the edge at certain distances, which was grasped by the hand. The
+helmet, made of metal and lined with felt. Lastly the spear, and in
+many cases two. The heavy-armed soldiery were distinguished from the
+light. The covering of the latter consisted of skins, and instead of
+the sword and lance, they fought with darts, bows and arrows, or
+slings, and were generally attached in a subordinate capacity to the
+heavy-armed soldiery.
+
+Homer puts a prayer in the mouth of Menelaüs, but none in that of
+Paris. Menelaüs is injured and innocent, and may therefore ask for
+justice; but Paris, who is the criminal, remains silent.
+
+[Because the hide of a beast that dies in health is tougher and fitter
+for use than of another that dies diseased.]
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book IV:
+
+
+The goddess of youth is made an attendant at the banquets of the gods,
+to show that they enjoyed a perpetual youth, and endless felicity.
+
+[A town of that name in Bœotia, where Pallas was particularly
+worshipped.—Tr.]
+
+[Βοωπις, constant description of Juno, but not susceptible of literal
+translation.]
+
+Homer does not make the gods use all persons indiscriminately as their
+agents, but each according to his powers. When Minerva would persuade
+the Greeks, she seeks Ulysses; when she would break the truce, for
+Pandarus; and when she would conquer, for Diomede. The goddess went not
+to the Trojans, because they hated Paris, and looks among the allies,
+where she finds Pandarus, who was of a nation noted for perfidiousness,
+and who, from his avarice, was capable of engaging in this treachery
+for the hope of a reward from Paris.
+
+A city of Asia Minor.
+
+This description, so full of circumstantial detail, is remarkably
+beautiful. 1. The history of the bow, giving in a few words the picture
+of a hunter, lying in ambush and slaying his victim. 2. Then the
+process of making the bow. 3. The anxious preparation for discharging
+the arrow with certainty, which was destined to break off the truce and
+precipitate the battle. 4. The hurried prayer and vow to Apollo, after
+which the string is drawn, the cord twangs, the arrow “leaps forth.”
+The whole is described with such graphic truth, that we see, and hear,
+and wait in breathless suspense to know the result.—Felton.
+
+This is one of those humble comparisons with which Homer sometimes
+diversifies his subject, but a very exact one of its kind, and
+corresponding in all its parts. The care of the goddess, the
+unsuspecting security of Menelaus, the ease with which she diverts the
+danger, and the danger itself, are all included in these few words. To
+which may be added, that if the providence of heavenly powers to their
+creatures is expressed by the love of a mother to her child, if men in
+regard to them are but as sleeping infants, and the dangers that seem
+so great to us, as easily warded off as the simile implies, the
+conception appears sublime, however insignificant the image may at
+first seem in regard to a hero.
+
+From this we learn that the Lydians and Carians were famous for their
+skill in dying purple, and that their women excelled in works of ivory;
+and also that there were certain ornaments that only kings and princes
+were privileged to wear.
+
+This speech of Agamemnon over his wounded brother, is full of noble
+power and touching eloquence. The Trojans have violated a truce
+sanctioned by a solemn sacrifice to the gods. The reflection that such
+perjury cannot pass with impunity, but that Jove will, sooner or later,
+punish it, occurs first to the mind of the warrior. In the excitement
+of the moment, he predicts that the day will surely come when sacred
+Troy shall fall. From this impetuous feeling his mind suddenly returns
+to the condition of his brother, and imagines with much pathos, the
+consequences that will follow from his death, and ends with the wish,
+that the earth may open before him when that time shall come.—Felton.
+
+The poet here changes the narration, and apostrophises the reader.
+Critics commend this figure, as the reader then becomes a spectator,
+and his mind is kept fixed on the action.
+
+In the following review of the army, we see the skill of an
+accomplished general as well as the characters of the leaders whom
+Agamemnon addresses. He begins with an address to the army in general,
+and then turns to individuals. To the brave he urges their secure hopes
+of conquest, since the gods must punish perjury; to the timid, their
+inevitable destruction if the enemy should burn their ships. After this
+he flies from rank to rank, skilfully addressing each ally, and
+presents a lively picture of a great mind in the highest emotion.
+
+The ancients usually in their feasts divided to the guests in equal
+portions, except they took particular occasion to show distinction. It
+was then considered the highest mark of honor to be allotted the best
+portion of meat and wine, and to be allowed an exemption from the laws
+of the feast in drinking wine unmingled and without measure. This
+custom was much more ancient than the time of the Trojan war, and we
+find it practised in the banquet given by Joseph to his brethren.
+
+[Diverse interpretations are given of this passage. I have adopted that
+which to me appeared most plausible. It seems to be a caution against
+the mischiefs that might ensue, should the horses be put under the
+management of a driver with whom they were unacquainted.—The scholium
+by Villoisson much countenances this solution.—Tr.]
+
+[Here Nestor only mentions the name of Ereuthalion, knowing the present
+to be an improper time for story-telling; in the seventh book he
+relates his fight and victory at length. This passage may serve to
+confute those who charge Nestor with indiscriminate loquacity.—Tr.]
+
+The first Theban war, previously alluded to, took place twenty-seven
+years before the war of Troy. Sthenelus here speaks of the second,
+which happened ten years after the first. For an account of these wars
+see Grecian and Roman Mythology.
+
+This is a most animated description. The onset, the clashing of spears,
+the shield pressed to shield, the tumult of the battle, the shouts and
+groans of the slayer and the dying—all are described in words, the very
+sound of which conveys the terrible meaning. Then come the exploits
+performed by individual heroes. The student must bear in mind, that the
+battles of the heroic age depended in a great measure upon the prowess
+of single chieftains. Hence the appropriateness of the following
+enumeration.—Felton.
+
+So called from the river Simoïs, near which he was born. It was an
+eastern custom to name children from the most remarkable accident of
+their birth. The Scriptures furnish many examples. In the Old Testament
+princes were also compared to trees, and Simöisius is here resembled to
+a poplar.
+
+Homer occasionally puts his readers in mind of Achilles, and finds
+occasion to celebrate his valor with the highest praise. Apollo here
+tells the Trojans they have nothing to fear, since Achilles fights not.
+
+[Ακροκομοι. They wore only a lock of hair on the crown of the head.]
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book V:
+
+
+In each battle there is one prominent person who may be called the hero
+of the day. This arrangement preserves unity, and helps to fix the
+attention of the reader. The gods sometimes favor one hero, and
+sometimes another. In this book we have the exploits of Diomede.
+Assisted by Minerva, he is eminent both for prudence and valor.
+
+Sirius. This comparison, among many others, shows how constantly the
+poet’s attention was directed to the phenomena of nature.—Felton.
+
+Ηιοεντι.
+
+The chariots were probably very low. We frequently find in the Iliad
+that a person standing in a chariot is killed (and sometimes by a
+stroke on the head) by a foot soldier with a sword. This may farther
+appear from the ease with which they mount or alight, to facilitate
+which, the chariots were made open behind. That the wheels were small,
+may be supposed from their custom of taking them off and putting them
+on. Hebe puts on the wheels of Juno’s chariot, when he called for it in
+battle. It may be in allusion to the same custom, that it is said in
+Ex., ch. xiv.: “The Lord took off their chariot wheels, so that they
+drove them heavily.” That it was very small and light, is evident from
+a passage in the tenth Il., where Diomede debates whether he shall draw
+the chariot of Rhesus out of the way, or carry it on his shoulders to a
+place of safety.
+
+[Meges, son of Phyleus.]
+
+This whole passage is considered by critics as very beautiful. It
+describes the hero carried by an enthusiastic valor into the midst of
+his enemies, and mingling in the ranks indiscriminately. The simile
+thoroughly illustrates this fury, proceeding as it did from an
+extraordinary infusion of courage from Heaven.
+
+[Apollo.]
+
+The deities are often invoked because of the agency ascribed to them
+and not from any particular religious usage. And just as often the
+heroes are protected by the gods who are worshipped by their own tribes
+and families—Muller.
+
+This fiction of Homer, says Dacier, is founded upon an important truth
+of religion, not unknown to the Pagans: viz. that God only can open the
+eyes of men, and enable them to see what they cannot otherwise
+discover. The Old Testament furnishes examples. God opens the eyes of
+Hagar, that she may see the fountain. “The Lord opened the eyes of
+Baalam, and he saw the angel,” etc. This power of sight was given to
+Diomede only for the present occasion. In the 6th Book, on meeting
+Glaucus, he is ignorant whether he is a god, a hero, or a man.
+
+[Or collar-bone.]
+
+The belief of those times, in regard to the peace and happiness of the
+soul after death, made the protection of the body a matter of great
+importance. For a full account of these rites, see the articles Charon
+and Pluto, Gr. & Rom. Mythology.
+
+The physician of the gods. Homer says nothing of his origin. He seems
+to be considered as distinct from Apollo, though perhaps originally
+identical with him.
+
+From the fact that so few mystical myths are introduced in the Iliad,
+Müller infers that the mystical element of religion could not have
+predominated among the Grecian people for whom Homer sang. Otherwise,
+his poems in which that element is but little regarded, would not have
+afforded universal pleasure and satisfaction. He therefore takes but a
+passing notice of Demeter. Müller also remarks, that in this we cannot
+but admire the artistic skill of Homer, and the feeling for what is
+right and fitting that was innate with the Greeks.
+
+[Vide Samson to Harapha in the Agonistes. There the word is used in the
+same sense.—Tr.]
+
+[This is a construction of λευκ ελεφαντι given by some of the best
+commentators, and that seems the most probable.—Tr.]
+
+This slow and orderly retreat of the Greeks, with their front
+constantly turned to the enemy, is a fine encomium on their courage and
+discipline. This manner of retreating was customary among the
+Lacedæmonians, as were many other martial customs described by Homer.
+The practice arose from the apprehension of being killed by a wound in
+the back, which was not only punished with infamy, but a person bearing
+the mark was denied the rites of burial.
+
+[This, according to Porphyrius as quoted by Clarke, is the true meaning
+of αιολομιτρης.—Tr.]
+
+The chariots of the gods were formed of various metals, and drawn
+through the air, or upon the surface of the sea, by horses of celestial
+breed. These chariots were used by the deities only on occasion of a
+long journey, or when they wished to appear with state and
+magnificence. Ordinarily they were transported from place to place by
+the aid of their golden sandals, with the exception of the
+“silver-footed Thetis,” to whom they seem to have been superfluous.
+When at home, the gods were barefoot, according to the custom of the
+age, as we see from various representations of antique art.
+
+[These which I have called crescents, were a kind of hook of a
+semicircular form, to which the reins were occasionally fastened.—Tr.]
+
+The Greeks borrowed the vest and shield of Minerva from the Lybians,
+only with this difference: the Lybian shield was fringed with thongs of
+leather, and the Grecian with serpents.—Herodotus.
+
+This expression (the gates of Heaven) is in the eastern manner, and
+common in the Scriptures.
+
+[Αρεα τονδε.]
+
+Every thing that enters the dark empire of Hades disappears, and is
+seen no more; hence the figurative expression, to put on Pluto’s
+helmet; that is to become invisible.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book VI:
+
+
+The Simoïs and Xanthus were two rivers of the Troad, which form a
+junction before they reached the Hellespont. The Simoïs rose in Mt.
+Ida, and the Xanthus had its origin near Troy.—Felton.
+
+Ajax commences his exploits immediately on the departure of the gods
+from the battle. It is observed of this hero, that he is never assisted
+by the deities.
+
+Axylus was distinguished for his hospitality. This trait was
+characteristic of the Oriental nations, and is often alluded to by
+ancient writers. The rite of hospitality often united families
+belonging to different and hostile nations, and was even transmitted
+from father to son. This description is a fine tribute to the
+generosity of Axylus.—Felton
+
+[Euryalus.]
+
+Agamemnon’s taking the life of the Trojan whom Menelaus had pardoned,
+was according to the custom of the times. The historical books of the
+Old Testament abound in instances of the like cruelty to conquered
+enemies.
+
+This important maxim of war is very naturally introduced, upon Menelaus
+being ready to spare an enemy for the sake of a ransom. According to
+Dacier, it was for such lessons as these that Alexander so much
+esteemed Homer and studied his poem.
+
+The custom of making donations to the gods is found among the ancients,
+from the earliest times of which we have any record down to the
+introduction of Christianity; and even after that period it was
+observed by the Christians during the middle ages. Its origin seems to
+have been the same as that of sacrifices: viz. the belief that the gods
+were susceptible of influence in their conduct towards men. These gifts
+were sometimes very costly, but often nothing more than locks of hair
+cut from the head of the votary.
+
+Diomede had knowingly wounded and insulted the deities; he therefore
+met Glaucus with a superstitious fear that he might be some deity in
+human shape. This feeling brought to his mind the story of Lycurgus.
+
+It is said that Lycurgus caused most of the vines of his country to be
+rooted up, so that his subjects were obliged to mix their wine with
+water, as it became less plentiful. Hence the fable that Thetis
+received Bacchus into her bosom.
+
+This style of language was according to the manners of the times. Thus
+Goliath to David, “Approach, and I will give thy flesh to the fowls of
+the air and the beasts of the field.” The Orientals still speak in the
+same manner.
+
+Though this comparison may be justly admired for its beauty in the
+obvious application to the mortality and succession of human life, it
+seems designed by the poet, in this place, as a proper emblem of the
+transitory state of families which, by their misfortune or folly, have
+fallen and decayed, and again appear, in a happier season, to revive
+and flourish in the fame and virtues of their posterity. In this sense
+it is a direct answer to the question of Diomede, as well as a proper
+preface to what Glaticus relates of his own family, which, having
+become extinct in Corinth, recovers new life in Lycia.
+
+The same as Corinth.
+
+Some suppose that alphabetical writing was unknown in the Homeric age,
+and consequently that these signs must have been hieroglyphical marks.
+The question is a difficult one, and the most distinguished scholars
+are divided in opinion. We can hardly imagine that a poem of the length
+and general excellence of the Iliad, could be composed without the aid
+of writing; and yet, we are told, there are well-authenticated examples
+of such works being preserved and handed down by traditional memory.
+However this may be, we know that the Oriental nations were in
+possession of the art of alphabetical writing it a very early period,
+and before the Trojan war. It cannot, then, seem very improbable, that
+the authors of the Iliad should also have been acquainted with
+it.—Felton.
+
+The Solymi were an ancient nation inhabiting the mountainous parts of
+Asia Minor, between Lycia and Pisidia. Pliny mentions them as having
+become extinct in his time.
+
+It was the custom in ancient times, upon the performance of any signal
+service by kings or great men, for the public to grant them a tract of
+land as a reward. When Sarpedon, in the 12th Book, exhorts Glaucus to
+behave valiantly, he reminds him of these possessions granted by his
+countrymen.
+
+The laws of hospitality were considered so sacred, that a friendship
+contracted under their observance was preferred to the ties of
+consanguinity and alliance, and regarded as obligatory even to the
+third and fourth generation. Diomede and Glaucus here became friends,
+on the ground of their grandfathers having been mutual guests. The
+presents made on these occasions were preserved by families, as it was
+considered obligatory to transmit them as memorials to their children.
+
+[Ξεινοι πατρωιοι.]
+
+The Scæan gate opened to the field of battle, and was the one through
+which the Trojans made their excursions. Close to this stood the beech
+tree sacred to Jupiter, and often mentioned in connection with it.
+
+There is a mournfulness in the interview between the hero and his
+mother which is deeply interesting. Her urging him to take wine and his
+refusal were natural and simple incidents, which heighten the effect of
+the scene.—Felton.
+
+The custom that prohibits persons polluted with blood from performing
+any offices of divine worship before purification, is so ancient and
+universal, that it may be considered a precept of natural religion,
+tending to inspire a horror of bloodshed. In Euripides, Iphigenia
+argues the impossibility of human sacrifices being acceptable to the
+gods, since they do not permit any one defiled with blood, or even
+polluted with the touch of a dead body, to come near their altars.
+
+Paris surprised the King of Phœnecia by night, and carried off many of
+his treasures and captives, among whom probably were these Sidonian
+women. Tyre and Sidon were famous for works in gold, embroidery, etc.,
+and for whatever pertained to magnificence and luxury.
+
+This gesture is the only one described by Homer as being used by the
+ancients in their invocations of the gods.
+
+[δια θεαων.]
+
+The employment in which Hector finds Paris engaged, is extremely
+characteristic.—Felton.
+
+This address of Helen is in fine keeping with her character.—Felton.
+
+[The bulk of his heroes is a circumstance of which Homer frequently
+reminds us by the use of the word μεγας—and which ought, therefore, by
+no means to be suppressed.—Tr.]
+
+Love of his country is a prominent characteristic of Hector, and is
+here beautifully displayed in his discharging the duties that the
+public welfare required, before seeking his wife and child. Then
+finding that she had gone to the tower, he retraces his steps to “the
+Scæan gate, whence he must seek the field.” Here his wife, on her
+return home, accidentally meets him.
+
+ [The name signifies, the _Chief of the city_.—Tr.]
+
+It was the custom to plant about tombs only such trees as elms, alders,
+etc., that bear no fruit, as being most appropriate to the dead.
+
+In this recapitulation, Homer acquaints us with some of the great
+achievements of Achilles, which preceded the opening of the poem—a
+happy manner of exalting his hero, and exciting our expectation as to
+what he is yet to accomplish. His greatest enemies never upbraid him,
+but confess his glory. When Apollo encourages the Trojans to fight, it
+is by telling them Achilles fights no more. When Juno animates the
+Greeks, she reminds them how their enemies fear Achilles; and when
+Andromache trembles for Hector, it is with the remembrance of his
+resistless force.
+
+Drawing water was considered the most servile employment.
+
+[The Scholiast in Villoisson calls it
+φυσικον τινα και μετριον γελωτα a natural and moderate laughter.—Tr.]
+
+According to the ancient belief, the fatal period of life is appointed
+to all men at the time of their birth, which no precaution can avoid
+and no danger hasten.
+
+This scene, for true and unaffected pathos, delicate touches of nature,
+and a profound knowledge of the human heart, has rarely been equalled,
+and never surpassed, among all the efforts of genius during the three
+thousand years that have gone by since it was conceived and
+composed.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book VII:
+
+
+Holding the spear in this manner was, in ancient warfare, understood as
+a signal to discontinue the fight.
+
+The challenge of Hector and the consternation of the Greeks, presents
+much the same scene as the challenge of Goliath, 1 Samuel, ch. 17: “And
+he stood and cried to the armies of Israel;—Choose you a man for you,
+and let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and to
+kill me, then will we be your servants.—When Saul and all Israel heard
+the words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid.”
+
+It was an ancient custom for warriors to dedicate trophies of this kind
+to the temples of their tutelary deities.
+
+[The club-bearer.]
+
+[It is a word used by Dryden.]
+
+Homer refers every thing, even the chance of the lots, to the
+disposition of the gods.
+
+[Agamemnon.]
+
+The lot was merely a piece of wood or shell, or any thing of the kind
+that was at hand. Probably it had some private mark, and not the name,
+as it was only recognized by the owner.
+
+This reply is supposed to allude to some gesture made by Ajax in
+approaching Hector.
+
+The heralds were considered as sacred persons, the delegates of
+Mercury, and inviolable by the laws of nations. Ancient history
+furnishes examples of the severity exercised upon those who were guilty
+of any outrage upon them. Their office was, to assist in the sacrifices
+and councils, to proclaim war or peace, to command silence at
+ceremonies or single combats, to part the combatants and declare the
+conqueror.
+
+This word I have taken leave to coin. The Latins have both substantive
+and adjective. _Purpura—Purpureus._ We make purple serve both uses; but
+it seems a poverty to which we have no need to submit, at least in
+poetry.—Tr.
+
+A particular mark of honor and respect, as this part of the victim
+belonged to the king. In the simplicity of the times, the reward
+offered a victorious warrior of the best portion of the sacrifice at
+supper, a more capacious bowl, or an upper seat at table, was a
+recompense for the greatest actions.
+It is worthy of observation, that beef, mutton, or kid, was the food of
+the heroes of Homer and the patriarchs and warriors of the Old
+Testament. Fishing and fowling were then the arts of more luxurious
+nations.
+
+[The word is here used in the Latin sense of it. Virgil, describing the
+entertainment given by Evander to the Trojans, says that he regaled
+them
+
+Perpetui _tergo bovis et lustralibus extis._
+Æn. viii.
+
+It means, the whole.—Tr.]
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book VIII:
+
+
+An epithet of Aurora, supposed to designate an early hour.
+
+Many have explained this as an allegorical expression for one of the
+great laws of nature—gravity or the attraction of the sun. There is not
+the slightest probability that any such meaning is intended.—Felton.
+
+A part of Mt. Ida. This place was celebrated, in subsequent times, for
+the worship of Jupiter. Several years ago, Dr. E.D. Clarke deposited,
+in the vestibule of the public library in Cambridge, England, a marble
+bust of Juno, taken from the ruins of this temple of Jupiter, at the
+base of Mt. Ida.—Felton
+
+[In the repetition of this expression, the translator follows the
+original.]
+
+Sacred, because that part of the day was appropriate to sacrifice and
+religious worship.
+
+This figure is first used in the Scriptures. Job prays to be weighed in
+an even balance, that God may know his integrity. Daniel says to
+Belshazzar, “thou art weighed in the balances, and found wanting,” etc.
+
+Jupiter’s declaring against the Greeks by thunder and lightning, is
+drawn (says Dacier) from truth itself. 1 Sam. ch. vii.: “And as Samuel
+was offering up the burnt-offering, the Philistines drew near to battle
+against Israel; but the Lord thundered on that day upon the Philistines
+and discomfited them.”
+
+Nothing can be more spirited than the enthusiasm of Hector, who, in the
+transport of his joy, breaks out in the following apostrophe to his
+horses. He has, in imagination, already forced the Grecian
+entrenchments, set the fleet in flames, and destroyed the whole army.
+
+From this speech, it may be gathered that women were accustomed to
+loosen the horses from the chariot, on their return from battle, and
+feed them; and from line 214, unless it is spurious, it seems that the
+provender was sometimes mixed with wine. It is most probable, however,
+that the line is not genuine.—Felton.
+
+Homer describes a princess so tender in her love to her husband, that
+she meets him on his return from every battle, and, in the joy of
+seeing him again, feeds his horses with bread and wine, as an
+acknowledgment to them for bringing him back.—Dacier.
+
+These were the arms that Diomede had received from Glaucus.
+
+[None daring to keep the field, and all striving to enter the gates
+together, they obstructed their own passage, and were, of course,
+compelled into the narrow interval between the foss and rampart.
+
+But there are different opinions about the space intended. See
+Villoisson.—Tr.]
+
+[To Jove, the source of all oracular information.]
+
+Jupiter, in answer to the prayer of Agamemnon, sends an omen to
+encourage the Greeks. The application of it is obvious: The eagle
+signified Hector, the fawn denoted the fear and flight of the Greeks,
+and being dropped at the altar of Jupiter, indicated that they would be
+saved by the protection of that god.
+
+This simile is very beautiful, and exactly represents the manner of
+Gorgythion’s death. There is so much truth in the comparison, that we
+pity the fall of the youth and almost feel his wound.
+
+[Ενικλαν.—The word is here metaphorical, and expresses, in its primary
+use, the breaking of a spear against a shield.—Tr.]
+
+[The following lines, to the end of this paragraph, are a translation
+of some which Barnes has here inserted from the second Alcibiades of
+Plato.]
+
+The simile is the most magnificent that can be conceived. The stars
+come forth brightly, the whole heaven is cloudless and serene, the moon
+is in the sky, the heights, and promontories, and forests stand forth
+distinctly in the light, _and the shepherd rejoices in his heart_. This
+last simple and natural circumstance is inexpressibly beautiful, and
+heightens the effect of the visible scene, by associating it, in the
+most direct and poetical manner, with the inward emotion that such a
+scene must produce.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book IX:
+
+
+[In the original the word is—μελανυδρος—dark-watered; and it is
+rendered—_deep_—by the best interpreters, because deep waters have a
+blackish appearance. Δνοφερον υδωρ is properly water that runs with
+rapidity; water—μετα δονησεως φερομενον—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+This is the language of a brave man, boldly to affirm that courage is
+above crowns and sceptres. In former times they were not hereditary,
+but the recompense of valor.
+
+[The observation seems made with a view to prevent such a reply from
+Agamemnon to Diomede as might give birth to new dissensions, while it
+reminds him indirectly of the mischiefs that had already attended his
+quarrel with Achilles.]—Tr.
+
+This speech of Nestor is happily conceived. It belonged to him as the
+aged counsellor to begin the debate, by laying the subject before the
+assembly, especially as it was necessary to impale the blame of the
+present unfortunate condition of the army to Agamemnon. It would have
+been presumptuous in any other, and it was a matter of difficulty and
+delicacy even for Nestor.—Felton.
+
+In the heroic age, the bridegroom, before marriage, was obliged to make
+two presents, one to his betrothed wife, and one to his father-in-law.
+This was also an ancient custom of the Hebrews. Abraham’s servant gave
+presents to Rebekah: Gen. xxiv. 22. Shechem promised a dowry and gift
+to Jacob for his daughter: Gen. xxiv. 12. And in after times, Saul said
+he desired no dowry for Michal: 1 Sam. xviii. 25.
+
+One of the religious ceremonies previous to any important enterprise.
+Then followed the order for silence and reverent attention; then the
+libation, &c.—Felton
+
+ Achilles having retired from action in displeasure to Agamemnon,
+ quieted himself by singing to his lyre the achievements of demi-gods
+ and heroes. Nothing was better suited to the martial disposition of
+ this hero, than these heroic songs. Celebrating the actions of the
+ valiant prepared him for his own great exploits. Such was the music of
+ the ancients, and to such purposes was it applied. When the lyre of
+ Paris was offered to Alexander, he replied that he had little value
+ for it, but much desired that of Achilles, on which he sung the
+ actions of heroes in former times.—Plutarch.
+
+The manners of the Iliad are the manners of the patriarchal and early
+ages of the East. The chief differences arise from a different religion
+and a more maritime situation. Very far removed from the savage state
+on the one hand, and equally distant from the artificial state of an
+extended commerce and a manufacturing population on the other, the
+spirit and habitudes of the two modes of society are almost identical.
+The hero and the Patriarch are substantially coëval; but the first
+wanders in twilight, the last stands in the eye of Heaven. When three
+men appeared to Abraham in the plains of Mamre, he ran to meet them
+from the tent door, brought them in, directed Sarah to make bread,
+fetched from the herd himself a calf tender and good, dressed it, and
+set it before them. When Ajax, Ulysses, and Phœnix stand before
+Achilles, he rushes forth to greet them, brings them into the tent,
+directs Patroclus to mix the wine, cuts up the meat, dresses it, and
+sets it before the ambassadors.  *  *  *  *
+
+Instances of this sort might be multiplied to any extent, but the
+student will find it a pleasing and useful task to discover them for
+himself; and these will amply suffice to demonstrate the existence of
+that correspondence of spirit and manners between the Homeric and the
+early ages of the Bible history, to which I have adverted. It is real
+and important; it affords a standard of the feelings with which we
+ought to read the Iliad, if we mean to read it as it deserves; and it
+explains and sets in the true point of view numberless passages, which
+the ignorance or frivolity of after-times has charged with obscurity,
+meanness or error. The Old Testament and the Iliad reflect light
+mutually on each other; and both in respect of poetry and morals (for
+the whole of Homer’s poetry is a praise of virtue, and every thing in
+him tends to this point, except that which is merely superfluous and
+for ornament) it may with great truth be said, that he who has the
+longest studied, and the most deeply imbibed, the spirit of the Hebrew
+Bible, will the best understand and the most lastingly appreciate the
+tale of Troy divine.—H.N. Coleridge.
+
+[I have given this sense to the word
+Ζωροτερον—on the authority of the Venetian Scholium, though some
+contend that it should be translated—_quickly_. Achilles, who had
+reproached Agamemnon with intemperate drinking, was, himself, more
+addicted to music than to wine.]—Tr.
+
+[It is not without authority that I have thus rendered
+κρειον μεγα. Homer’s banquets are never stewed or boiled; it cannot
+therefore signify a kettle. It was probably a kitchen-table, dresser,
+or tray, on which the meat was prepared for the spit. Accordingly we
+find that this very meat was spitted afterward.—See
+Schaufelbergerus.]—Tr.
+
+There are no speeches in the Iliad better placed, better timed, or that
+give a greater idea of Homer’s genius than these of the ambassadors to
+Achilles. They are not only demanded by the occasion, but skilfully
+arranged, and in a manner that gives pleasure to the reader.
+
+[Dacier observes, that he pluralizes the one wife of Menelaus, through
+the impetuosity of his spirit.]—Tr.
+
+According to some ancient writers, Achilles was but twelve years of age
+when he went to the wars of Troy. And from what is here related of his
+education under Phœnix, it may be inferred, that the fable of his
+having been taught by Chiron is an invention of a later age and unknown
+to Homer.
+
+The ancients gave the name of Jupiter not only to the God of heaven,
+but also to the God of hell, as is seen here; and to the God of the
+sea, as appears from Æschylus. They meant thereby to show that one sole
+deity governed the world. To teach this truth, statues were made of
+Jupiter which had three eyes. Priam had one in the court of his palace,
+which, in sharing the booty of the war of Troy, fell to the lot of
+Sthenelus, who carried it to Greece.—Dacier.
+
+So called because Jove protects those who implore his aid.
+
+[Wrinkled—because the countenance of a man driven to prayer by a
+consciousness of guilt is sorrowful and dejected. Lame—because it is a
+remedy to which men recur late, and with reluctance. And
+slant-eyed—either because, in that state of humiliation they fear to
+lift their eyes to heaven, or are employed in taking a retrospect of
+their past misconduct.
+
+The whole allegory, considering _when_ and _where_ it was composed,
+forms a very striking passage.]—Tr.
+
+[She had five brothers: Iphiclus, Polyphontes, Phanes, Eurypylus,
+Plexippus.]—Tr.
+
+It was the custom for the murderer to go into banishment for one year.
+But if the relations of the murdered person were willing, the criminal,
+by paying a certain fine, might buy off the exile and remain at home.
+Ajax sums up this argument with great strength: We see, says he, a
+brother forgive the murder of his brother, a father that of his son;
+but Achilles will not forgive the injury offered him by taking away one
+captive woman.
+
+The character of Achilles is well sustained in all his speeches. To
+Ulysses he returns a flat denial, and threatens to leave the Trojan
+shore in the morning. To Phœnix his answer is more gentle. After Ajax
+has spoken, he seems determined not to depart, but yet refuses to bear
+arms, except in defence of his own squadron.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book X:
+
+
+With slight alteration, Homer here repeats the verses that open the 2d
+Book, and ascribes to Agamemnon the same watchfulness over men that
+Jupiter had over the gods.
+
+Menelaus starts a design, which is afterwards proposed by Nestor in
+council. The poet knew that the project would come with greater weight
+from the age of the one than from the youth of the other, and that the
+valiant would be ready to engage in the enterprise suggested by so
+venerable a counsellor.
+
+Agamemnon is uniformly represented as an example of brotherly
+affection, and at all times defends Menelaus.
+
+[Σαυρωτηρ—seems to have been a hollow iron with a point, fitted to the
+obtuse end of the spear, for the purpose of planting that end of it in
+the ground. It might probably be taken off at pleasure.]—Tr.
+
+The dogs represent the watch, the flocks the Greeks, the fold their
+camp, and the wild beast that invades them, Hector. The place,
+position, and circumstances are represented with the utmost life and
+nature.
+
+[_Sable_, because the expedition was made by night, and _each with a
+lamb_, as typical of the fruit of their labors.]—Tr.
+
+It required some address in Diomede to make a choice without offending
+the Grecian princes, each one of whom might consider it an indignity to
+be refused such a place of honor. Diomede, therefore, chose Ulysses,
+not for his valor, but for his wisdom. On this point, the other leaders
+all yielded to him.
+
+The heroes are well armed for their design. Ulysses has a bow and
+arrows, that he may be able to wound the enemy at a distance, and
+Diomede a two-edged sword. They both have leathern helmets, as the
+glittering of the metal might betray them to the enemy.
+
+[Autolycus was grandfather of Ulysses by the mother’s side.]—Tr.
+
+Making these military presents to brave adventurers was an ancient
+custom. “Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and
+gave it to David; and his garments, even to his sword, and his bow, and
+his girdle.” 1 Sam. xviii. v.
+
+These lines show how careful the poet always was to be true to nature.
+The little circumstance that they could not _see_ the heron, but only
+heard him, stamps the description with an air of verisimilitude which
+is at once recognized.—Felton.
+
+This passage sufficiently justifies Diomede for his choice of Ulysses.
+Diomede, who was most renowned for valor, might have given a wrong
+interpretation to this omen, and have been discouraged from proceeding
+in the attempt. For though it really signified that, as the bird was
+not seen, but only heard, so they should not be discovered by the
+Trojans, but perform actions of which all Troy should hear with sorrow;
+yet, on the other hand, it might imply that, as they discovered the
+bird by the noise of its wings, so the noise they should make would
+betray them to the Trojans. Pallas does not send the bird sacred to
+herself, but the heron, because that is a bird of prey, and denoted
+that they should spoil the Trojans.
+
+Dolon seems to have been eminent for wealth, and Hector summons him to
+the assembly as one of the chiefs of Troy. He was known to the Greeks,
+perhaps, from his having passed between the two armies as a herald.
+Ancient writers observe, that it was the office of Dolon that led him
+to offer himself in this service. The sacredness attached to it gave
+him hopes that they would not violate his person, should he chance to
+be taken; and his riches he knew were sufficient to purchase his
+liberty. Besides these advantages, he probably trusted to his swiftness
+to escape pursuit.
+
+Eustathius remarks upon the different manner in which the Grecians and
+Trojans conduct the same enterprise. In the council of the Greeks, a
+wise old man proposes the adventure with an air of deference; in that
+of the Trojans, a brave young man with an air of authority. The one
+promises a small gift, but honorable and certain; the other a great
+one, but uncertain and less honorable, because it is given as a reward.
+Diomede and Ulysses are inspired with a love of glory; Dolon with the
+thirst of gain. They proceed with caution and bravery; he with rashness
+and vanity. They go in conjunction; he alone. They cross the fields out
+of the road, he follows the common track. In all this there is an
+admirable contrast, and a moral that strikes every reader at first
+sight.
+
+[Commentators are extremely in the dark, and even Aristarchus seems to
+have attempted an explanation in vain. The translator does not pretend
+to have ascertained the distance intended, but only to have given a
+distance suited to the occasion.]—Tr.
+
+Ulysses makes no promise of life, but artfully bids Dolon, who is
+overpowered by fear, not to think of death. He was so cautious as not
+to believe a friend just before without an oath, but he trusts an enemy
+without even a promise.
+
+['Οσσαι γαρ Τρωων πυρος εσχαραι—As many as are owners of hearths—that
+is to say, all who are householders here, or natives of the city.]—Tr
+
+It seems barbarous in Diomede thus to have killed Dolon, but Eustathius
+observes that it was necessary to their success, as his cries might
+have put the Trojans on their guard.
+
+An allegorical manner of saying that they were awakened by the morning
+light.
+
+[Homer did not here forget himself, though some have altered
+τρις ιο τετρακαιδεκατον.—Rhesus for distinction sake is not numbered
+with his people—See Villoisson _in loco_.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XI:
+
+
+Cynyras was king of Cyprus, and this probably alludes to some
+historical fact. Cyprus was famous for its minerals.
+
+[Τρεις εκατερθ'—three on a side, This is evidently the proper
+punctuation, though it differs from that of all the editions that I
+have seen. I find it no where but in the _Venetian Scholium_.]—Tr.
+
+It is finely remarked by Trollope, that, of all the points of
+resemblance which may be discovered between the sentiments,
+associations and expressions of Homer, and those of the sacred
+writings, this similitude is perhaps the most striking; and there can
+be little doubt that it exhibits a traditional vestige of the
+patriarchal record of God’s covenant.—Felton.
+
+[Quâtre-crested. So I have rendered
+τετραφαληρον which literally signifies having four cones. The cone was
+a tube into which the crest was inserted. The word quâtre-crested may
+need a precedent for its justification, and seems to have a sufficient
+one in the cinque-spotted cowslip of Shakspeare.]—Tr.
+
+[This seems the proper import of
+εγδουπησαν. Jupiter is called
+εριγδουτος.]—Tr.
+
+[The translator follows Clarke in this interpretation of a passage to
+us not very intelligible.]
+
+The ancient manner of mowing and reaping was, for the laborers to
+divide in two parties, and to begin at each end of the field, which was
+equally divided, and proceed till they met in the middle of it.
+
+Time was then measured by the progression of the sun, and the parts of
+the day were distinguished by the various employments.
+
+[ολμος.]
+
+[The Grecians at large are indiscriminately called Danaï, Argives, and
+Achaians, in the original. The Phthians in particular—Hellenes. They
+were the troops of Achilles.]—Tr.
+
+[Ανεμοτρεφες—literally—wind-nourished.]—Tr.
+
+In making Ulysses direct Diomede, Homer intends to show that valor
+should be under the guidance of wisdom. In the 8th Book, when Diomede
+could hardly be restrained by the thunder of Jupiter, his valor is
+checked by the wisdom of Nestor.
+
+Diomede does not fear Hector, but Jupiter, who, he has previously said,
+will give the Trojans the day.
+
+[In the original—κερα αγλαε.—All that I pretend to know of this
+expression is that it is ironical, and may relate either to the
+head-dress of Paris, or to his archership. To translate it is
+impossible; to paraphrase it, in a passage of so much emotion, would be
+absurd. I have endeavored to supply its place by an appellation in
+point of contempt equal.]—Tr.
+
+No moral is so evident throughout the Iliad, as the dependence of man
+upon divine assistance and protection. Apollo saves Hector from the
+dart, and Minerva Ulysses.
+
+Homer here pays a marked distinction. The army had seen several of
+their bravest heroes wounded, yet without expressing as much concern as
+at the danger of Machaon, their physician and surgeon.
+
+[This interpretation of—μινυνθα δε χαζετο δουρος—is taken from the
+Scholium by Villoisson. It differs from those of Clarke, Eustathius,
+and another Scholiast quoted by Clarke, but seems to suit the context
+much better than either.]—Tr.
+
+The address of Homer in bringing off Ajax is admirable. He makes Hector
+afraid to approach him, and brings down Jupiter to terrify him. Thus he
+retreats, not from a mortal, but from a God.
+
+The whole passage is inimitably just and beautiful. We see Ajax slowly
+retreating between two armies, and even with a look repulse the one and
+protect the other. Every line resembles Ajax. The character of a
+stubborn and undaunted warrior is perfectly maintained. He compares him
+first to the lion for his undaunted spirit in fighting, and then to the
+ass for his stubborn slowness in retreating. In the latter comparison
+there are many points of resemblance that enliven the image. The havoc
+he makes in the field is represented by the tearing and trampling down
+the harvests; and we see the bulk, strength, and obstinancy of the
+hero, when the Trojans, in respect to him, are compared to the troops
+of boys that impotently endeavor to drive him away.
+
+It must be borne in mind that among the people of the East, an ass was
+a beast upon which kings and princes might ride with dignity.
+
+Though the resentment of Achilles would not permit him to be an actor
+in the field, yet his love of war inclines him to be a spectator. As
+the poet did not intend to draw the character of a perfect man in
+Achilles, he makes him delighted with the destruction of the Greeks,
+because it gratified his revenge. That resentment which is the subject
+of the poem, still presides over every other feeling, even the love of
+his country. He begins now to pity his countrymen, yet he seems
+gratified by their distress, because it will contribute to his glory.
+
+This onion was very different from the root which now passes under that
+name. It had a sweet flavor, and was used to impart an agreeable flavor
+to wine. It is in high repute at the present day in Egypt.—Felton.
+
+[I have interpreted the very ambiguous words
+ουω δ' υπο πυθμενες ησαν according to Athenæus as quoted by Clarke, and
+his interpretation of them is confirmed by the Scholium in the Venetian
+edition of the Iliad, lately published by Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+Homer here reminds the reader, that Nestor belonged to a former
+generation of men, who were stronger than the heroes of the war.
+
+[It would have suited the dignity of Agamemnon’s rank to have mentioned
+_his_ wound first; but Nestor making this recital to the _friend of
+Achilles_, names him slightly, and without any addition.]—Tr.
+
+[It is said that the Thebans having war with the people of Orchomenos,
+the Pylians assisted the latter, for which cause Hercules destroyed
+their city.—See Scholium per Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XII:
+
+
+[The word is of scripture use; see Gen. ch. xxx. where it describes the
+cattle of Jacob.]—Tr.
+
+[Alluding to the message delivered to him from Jupiter by Iris.]—Tr.
+
+The morality of the Iliad deserves particular attention. It is not
+_perfect_, upon Christian principles. How should it be under the
+circumstances of the composition of the poem? Yet, compared with that
+of all the rest of the classical poetry, it is of a transcendently
+noble and generous character. The answer of Hector to Polydamas, who
+would have dissuaded a further prosecution of the Trojan success, has
+been repeated by many of the most devoted patriots the world ever saw.
+_We_, who defy augury in these matters, can yet add nothing to the
+nobleness of the sentiment.—H.N. Coleridge.
+
+[πλεονων δε τοι εργον αμεινον.—This is evidently proverbial, for which
+reason I have given it that air in the translation.]—Tr.
+
+There is something touching in this simile. Our attention is fixed, not
+so much on the battle, as on the struggles of the laboring,
+true-hearted woman, who toils for a hard-earned pittance for her
+children. The description is not so much illustrated by the simile, as
+the simile by the description.—Felton.
+
+The description of this exploit of Hector is wonderfully imposing. It
+seems to be the poet’s wish to magnify his deeds during the short
+period that he has yet to live, both to do justice to the hero of Troy,
+and to give the greater glory to Achilles his conquerer.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XIII:
+
+
+We are hurried through this book by the warlike ardor of the poet.
+Battle succeeds battle with animating rapidity. The speeches are in
+fine keeping with the scenes, and the similes are drawn from the most
+imposing natural phenomena. The descriptions possess a wonderful
+distinctness and vigor, presenting the images to the mind by a few bold
+and grand lines, thus shunning the confusion of intricate and minute
+detail.—Felton.
+
+So called from their simple diet, consisting principally of mare’s
+milk. They were a people living on the north-east coast of the Euxine
+Sea. These epithets are sometimes supposed to be the _gentile_
+denominations of the different tribes; but they are all susceptible of
+interpretation as epithets applied to the Hippemolgi.—Felton.
+
+[For this admirable line the translator is indebted to Mr. Fuseli.]—Tr.
+
+The following simile is considered by critics as one of the finest in
+Homer.
+
+[A fitter occasion to remark on this singular mode of approach in
+battle, will present itself hereafter.]—Tr.
+
+[The bodies of Imbrius and Amphimachus.]
+
+[Amphimachus.]
+
+This is a noble passage. The difference between the conduct of the
+brave man and that of the coward is drawn with great vigor and
+beauty.—Felton.
+
+[Hypsenor.]
+
+[This seems to be he meaning ofεν μεγαρω an expression similar to that
+of Demosthenes in a parallel case—ετι ενδον ουσαν.—See
+Schaufelburgerus.]—Tr
+
+[He is said to have been jealous of him on account of his great
+popularity, and to have discountenanced him, fearing a conspiracy in
+his favor to the prejudice of his own family.—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The Iäonianans were a distinct people from the Ionians, and according
+to the Scholium, separated from them by a pillar bearing on opposite 
+sides the name of each.—See Barnes. See also Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The people of Achilles were properly called the Phthiotæ, whereas the
+Phthians belonged to Protesiläus and Philoctetes.—See Eustathius, as
+quoted by Clarke.]—Tr.
+
+This simile is derived from one of the most familiar sights among a
+simple people. It is extremely natural, and its propriety will be
+peculiarly striking to those who have had occasion to see a yoke of
+oxen plowing in a hot day.—Felton.
+
+[Achilles.]
+
+[This, according to Eustathius, is the import of
+αμοιβοι.—See Iliad III., in which Priam relates an expedition of his
+into that country.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XIV:
+
+
+The beauty of this simile will be lost to those who have never been at
+sea during a calm. The water is then not quite motionless, but swells
+gently in smooth waves, which fluctuate in a balancing motion, until a
+rising wind gives them a certain determination. Every circumstance of
+the comparison is just, as well as beautiful.
+
+Anointing the body with perfumed oil was a remarkable part of ancient
+cosmetics. It was probably an eastern invention, agreeable to the
+luxury of the Asiatics.
+
+A footstool was considered a mark of honor.
+
+In accordance with the doctrine of Thales the Milesian, that all things
+are generated from water, and nourished by the same element.
+
+[Hercules.]
+
+Night was venerated, both for her antiquity and power.
+
+[One of the heads of Ida.]
+
+A bird about the size of a hawk, and entirely black.
+
+By Juno is understood the air, and it is allegorically said that she
+was nourished by the vapors that rise from the ocean and the earth.
+Tethys being the same as Rhea.
+
+[Europa.]
+
+An evident allusion to the ether and the atmosphere.—E.P.P.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XV:
+
+
+[The translator seizes the opportunity afforded to him by this
+remarkable passage, to assure his readers who are not readers of the
+original, that the discipline which Juno is here said to have suffered
+from the hands of Jove, is not his own invention. He found it in the
+original, and considering fidelity as his indispensable duty, has not
+attempted to soften or to refine away the matter. He begs that this
+observation may be adverted to as often as any passage shall occur in
+which ancient practices or customs, not consonant to our own, either in
+point of delicacy or humanity, may be either expressed or alluded to.
+
+He makes this request the rather, because on these occasions Mr. Pope
+has observed a different conduct, suppressing all such images as he had
+reason to suppose might be offensive.]—Tr.
+
+The earliest form of an oath seems to have been by the elements of
+nature, or rather the deities who preside over them.—Trollope.
+
+In the following speech, Jupiter discloses the future events of the
+war.
+
+The illustration in the following lines is one of the most beautiful in
+Homer. The rapid passage of Juno is compared to the speed of thought,
+by which a traveller revisits in imagination the scenes over which he
+has passed. No simile could more exalt the power of the
+Goddess.—Felton.
+
+The picture is strikingly true to nature. The smile upon the lip, and
+frown upon the brow, express admirably the state of mind in which the
+Goddess must be supposed to have been at this moment.—Felton.
+
+[_To tempest_—κυδοιμησων—Milton uses _tempest_ as a verb. Speaking of
+the fishes, he says
+
+... part, huge of bulk
+Wallowing unwieldy, enormous in their gait,
+_Tempest_ the ocean.
+
+]—Tr.
+
+The Furies are said to wait upon men in a double sense; either for
+evil; as upon Orestes after he had killed his mother, or else for their
+good, as upon elders when they are injured, to protect them and avenge
+their wrongs. The ancients considered birth-right as a right divine.
+
+[Τρωες δε προυτυψαν αολλεες. The translation is literal, and affords
+one of many instances in which the Greek and English idiom correspond
+exactly.]—Tr.
+
+[Arcesilaüs.]
+
+[This abruptness of transition from the third person to the first,
+follows the original.]
+
+[The translator hopes that his learned readers will pardon him, if
+sometimes, to avoid an irksome cacophony, he turns brass into steel. In
+fact, arrow had not a point of steel, but a brazen one.]—Tr.
+
+This sentiment is noble and patriotic. It is in strict keeping with the
+character of Hector, who always appears as his country’s champion, and
+ready to die in her defence. Our sympathies go with him; we
+involuntarily wish him success, and deplore his misfortune, though we
+admire the invincible courage of his more fortunate antagonist. His
+actions and sentiments, springing from the simplest feelings of our
+nature, will always command applause, and, under all circumstances, and
+every form of political existence, will be imitated by the defenders of
+their country.
+
+The speech of Ajax is animating and powerful. It is conceived in the
+true spirit of a warrior rousing his followers to make a last effort to
+repel the enemy.—Felton.
+
+[Meges.]
+
+Hector is here represented as an instrument in the hand of Jupiter, to
+bring about the design the God had long ago projected. As his fatal
+hour now approaches, Jove is willing to recompense his early death with
+this short-lived glory.
+
+It may be asked what Pallas has to do with the Fates, or what power has
+she over them?  Homer speaks thus, because Minerva has already resolved
+to deceive Hector and exalt Achilles. Pallas, as the wisdom and
+knowledge of Jove, may be considered as drawing all things to the
+termination decreed by his councils.
+
+[This termination of the period, so little consonant to the beginning
+of it, follows the original, where it is esteemed by commentators a
+great beauty.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XVI:
+
+
+[This translation of
+δνοφερον is warranted by the Scholiast, who paraphrases it thus:
+
+
+μετα δονησεως φερομενον.
+_Iliad per Vill._]
+
+The friendship of Achilles and Patroclus was celebrated by all
+antiquity. It is said in the life of Alexander the Great, that when
+that prince visited the monuments of the heroes of Troy, and placed a
+crown upon the tomb of Achilles, his friend Hephæstion placed another
+on that of Patroclus; an intimation of his being to Alexander, what
+Patroclus was to Achilles. It is also said, that Alexander remarked,
+“Achilles was happy indeed, in having had such a friend to love him
+when living, and such a poet to celebrate him when dead.”
+
+[περιαγνυται. A word of incomparable force, and that defies
+translation.]
+
+This charge is in keeping with the ambitious character of Achilles. He
+is unwilling that even his dearest friend should have the honor of
+conquering Hector.
+
+The picture of the situation of Ajax, exhausted by his efforts, pressed
+by the arms of his assailants and the will of Jupiter, is drawn with
+much graphic power.—Felton.
+
+Argus-slayer.
+
+The mythi which we find in the Iliad respecting Mercury, represent him
+as the god who blessed the land with fertility, which was his attribute
+in the original worship. He is represented as loving the daughter of
+Phthiotian Phylas, the possessor of many herds, and by her had Eudorus
+(or riches) whom the aged Phylas fostered and brought up in his
+house—quite a significant local mythus, which is here related, like
+others in the usual tone of heroic mythology.—Muller.
+
+This passage is an exact description and perfect ritual of the
+ceremonies on these occasions. Achilles, urgent as the case was, would
+not suffer Patroclus to enter the fight, till he had in the most solemn
+manner recommended him to the protection of Jupiter.
+
+[Meges.]
+
+[Brother of Antilochus.]
+
+[αμαιμακετην—is a word which I can find nowhere satisfactorily derived.
+Perhaps it is expressive of great length, and I am the more inclined to
+that sense of it, because it is the epithet given to the mast on which
+Ulysses floated to Charybdis. We must in that case derive it from
+αμα and μηκος Doricè, μακος—longitudo.
+
+In this uncertainty I thought myself free to translate it as I have, by
+the word—monster.]—Tr.
+
+[Apollonius says that the
+οστεα λευκα here means the οπονδυλους, or vertebræ of the neck.—See
+Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+['Αμιτροχιτονας is a word, according to Clarke, descriptive of their
+peculiar habit. Their corselet, and the mail worn under it, were of a
+piece, and put on together. To them therefore the cincture or belt of
+the Greeks was unnecessary.]—Tr.
+
+According to the history or fable received in Homer’s time, Sarpedon
+was interred in Lycia. This gave the poet the liberty of making him die
+at Troy, provided that after his death he was carried into Lycia, to
+preserve the fable. In those times, as at this day, princes and persons
+of rank who died abroad, were carried to their own country to be laid
+in the tomb of their fathers. Jacob, when dying in Egypt, desired his
+children to carry him to the land of Canaan, where he wished to be
+buried.
+
+[Sarpedon certainly was not slain _in the fleet_, neither can the Greek
+expression νεων εν αγωνι be with propriety interpreted—_in certamine de
+navibus_—as Clarke and Mme. Dacier are inclined to render it. _Juvenum
+in certamine_, seems equally an improbable sense of it. Eustathius,
+indeed, and Terrasson, supposing Sarpedon to assert that he dies in the
+middle of the fleet (which was false in fact) are kind enough to
+vindicate Homer by pleading in his favor, that Sarpedon, being in the
+article of death, was delirious, and knew not, in reality, where he
+died. But Homer, however he may have been charged with now and then a
+nap (a crime of which I am persuaded he is never guilty) certainly does
+not slumber here, nor needs to be so defended. 'Αγων in the 23d Iliad,
+means the _whole extensive area_ in which the games were exhibited, and
+may therefore here, without any strain of the expression, be understood
+to signify the _whole range of shore_ on which the ships were
+stationed. In which case Sarpedon represents the matter as it was,
+saying that he dies—νεων εν αγωνι—that is, in the neighborhood of the
+ships, and in full prospect of them.
+
+The translator assumes not to himself the honor of this judicious
+remark. It belongs to Mr. Fuseli.]—Tr.
+
+[λασιν κηρ.]
+
+The clouds of thick dust that rise from beneath the feet of the
+combatants, which hinder them from knowing one another.
+
+[Υπασπιδια προβιβωντος. A similar expression occurs in Book xiii., 158.
+There we read υπασπιδια προποδιζων. Which is explained by the Scholiast
+in Villoisson to signify—advancing with quick, short steps, and at the
+same time covering the feet with a shield. A practice which, unless
+they bore the
+αμφιβροτην ασπιδα, must necessarily leave the upper parts exposed.
+
+It is not improbable, though the translation is not accommodated to
+that conjecture, that Æneas, in his following speech to Meriones, calls
+him,
+ορχηστην, with a view to the agility with which he performed this
+particular step in battle.]—Tr.
+
+[Two lines occurring here in the original which contain only the same
+matter as the two preceding, and which are found neither in the MSS.
+use by Barnes nor in the Harleian, the translator has omitted them in
+his version as interpolated and superfluous.]—Tr.
+
+[Ιρα ταλαντα—_Voluntatem Jovis cui cedendum_—So it is interpreted is
+the Scholium MSS. Lipsiensis.—Vide Schaufelbergerus.]—Tr.
+
+It is an opinion of great antiquity, that when the soul is on the point
+of leaving the body, its views become stronger and clearer, and the
+mind is endowed with a spirit of true prediction.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XVII:
+
+
+In the chase, the spoils of the prey, the hide and head of the animal,
+belonged to the one who gave the first wound. So in war—the one who
+first pierced an enemy slain in battle, was entitled to his armor.
+
+[The expediency and utility of prayer, Homer misses no opportunity of
+enforcing. Cold and comfortless as the religious creed of the heathens
+was, they were piously attentive to its dictates, and to a degree that
+may serve as a reproof to many professed believers of revelation. The
+allegorical history of prayer, given us in the 9th Book of the Iliad
+from the lips of Phœnix, the speech of Antilochus in the 23d, in which
+he ascribes the ill success of Eumelus in the chariot race to his
+neglect of prayer, and that of Pisistratus in the 3d book of the
+Odyssey, where speaking of the newly-arrived Telemachus, he says;
+
+For I deem
+ Him wont to pray; since all of every land
+ Need succor from the Gods;
+
+are so many proofs of the truth of this remark; to which a curious
+reader might easily add a multitude.]—Tr.
+
+[There is no word in our language expressive of loud sound at all
+comparable in effect to the Greek _Bo-o-osin_. I have therefore
+endeavored by the juxta-position of two words similar in sound, to
+palliate in some degree defect which it was not in my power to
+cure.]—Tr.
+
+[Or collar-bone.]
+
+[The proper meaning of
+επιοσαομενω—is not simply _looking on_, but _providing against_. And
+thus their ignorance of the death of Patroclus is accounted for. They
+were ordered by Nestor to a post in which they should have little to do
+themselves, except to superintend others, and were consequently too
+remote from Patroclus to see him fall, or even to hear that he had
+fallen.—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+This is one of the similes of Homer which illustrates the manners and
+customs of his age. The mode of preparing hides for use is particularly
+described. They were first softened with oil, and then were stretched
+every direction by the hands of men, so that the moisture might be
+removed and the oil might penetrate them. Considered in the single
+point of comparison intended, it gives a lively picture of the struggle
+on all sides to get possession of the body.—Felton.
+
+This is the proper imperfect of the verb _chide_, though modern usage
+has substituted _chid_, a word of mean and awkward sound, in the place
+of it.
+
+This alludes to the custom of placing columns upon tombs, on which were
+frequently represented chariots with two or four horses. The horses
+standing still to mourn for their master, could not be more finely
+represented than by the dumb sorrow of images standing over a tomb.
+Perhaps the very posture in which these horses are described, their
+heads bowed down, and their manes falling in the dust, has an allusion
+to the attitude in which those statues on monuments were usually
+represented; there are bas-reliefs that favor this conjecture.
+
+[The Latin plural of Ajax is sometimes necessary, because the English
+plural—Ajaxes—would be insupportable.]—Tr.
+
+[Leïtus was another chief of the Bœotians.]—Tr.
+
+[Διφρω εφεσταοτος—Yet we learn soon after that he fought on foot. But
+the Scholiast explains the expression thus—νεωστι τω διφωω επιβαντος.
+The fact was that Idomeneus had left the camp on foot, and was on foot
+when Hector prepared to throw at him. But Cœranus, charioteer of
+Meriones, observing his danger, drove instantly to his aid. Idomeneus
+had just time to mount, and the spear designed for him, struck
+Cœranus.—For a right understanding of this very intricate and difficult
+passage, I am altogether indebted to the Scholiast as quoted by
+Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The translator here follows the interpretation preferred by the
+Scholiast. The original expression is ambiguous, and may signify,
+either, that _we shall perish in the fleet ourselves_, or that Hector
+will soon be in the midst of it. Vide Villoisson _in loco_.]—Tr.
+
+[A noble instance of the heroism of Ajax, who asks not deliverance from
+the Trojans, or that he may escape alive, but light only, without which
+be could not possibly distinguish himself. The tears of such a warrior,
+and shed for such a reason, are singularly affecting.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XVIII:
+
+
+This speech of Antilochus may serve as a model for its brevity.
+
+This form of manifesting grief is frequently alluded to in the
+classical writers, and sometimes in the Bible. The lamentation of
+Achilles is in the spirit of the heroic times, and the poet describes
+it with much simplicity. The captives join in the lamentation, perhaps
+in the recollection of his gentleness, which has before been alluded
+to.—Felton.
+
+[Here it is that the drift of the whole poem is fulfilled. The evils
+consequent on the quarrel between him and Agamemnon, at last teach
+Achilles himself this wisdom—that wrath and strife are criminal and
+pernicious; and the confession is extorted from his own lips, that the
+lesson may be the more powerfully inculcated. To point the instruction
+to leaders of armies only, is to narrow its operation unnecessarily.
+The moral is of universal application, and the poet’s beneficent
+intentions are wronged by one so partial.]—Tr.
+
+The promise of Thetis to present her son with a suit of armor, was the
+most artful method of hindering him from putting immediately in
+practice his resolution of fighting, which, with his characteristic
+violence, he would otherwise have done.
+
+[The sun is said to set with reluctance, because his setting-time was
+not yet come. Jupiter had promised Hector that he should prevail till
+the sun should go down, and _sacred darkness cover all_. Juno
+therefore, impatient to arrest the victor’s progress, and having no
+other means of doing it, shortens the time allotted him.]—Tr.
+
+[καταδημοβορησαι.]
+
+This custom of washing the dead is continued among the Greeks to this
+day, and is performed by the dearest friend or relative. The body is
+then anointed with a perfume, and covered with linen, exactly in the
+manner here related.
+
+Among the Greeks, visitors of rank are still honored in the same
+manner, by being set apart from the rest of the company, on a high
+seat, with a footstool.
+
+['Ανεδραμε.]
+
+The description of the shield of Achilles is one of the noblest
+passages in the Iliad. It is elaborated to the highest finish of
+poetry. The verse is beautifully harmonious, and the language as nicely
+chosen and as descriptive as can be conceived. But a still stronger
+interest belongs to this episode when considered as an exact
+representation of life at a very early period of the world, as it
+undoubtedly was designed by the poet.
+
+It is certainly a most remarkable passage for the amount of information
+it conveys relative to the state of arts, and the general condition of
+life at that period. From many intimations in the ancient authors, it
+may be gathered, that shields were often adorned by deities of figures
+in bas-relief, similar to those here described. In particular, see
+Æschylus in the Seven against Thebes. A close examination of the whole
+passage will lead to many curious inductions and inferences relative to
+the ancient world, and throw much light upon points which are elsewhere
+left in great obscurity.—Felton.
+
+Murder was not always punished with death or even banishment. But on
+the payment of a fine, the criminal was allowed to remain in the city.
+
+Linus was the most ancient name in poetry, the first upon record as
+inventor of verse and measure among the Grecians. There was a solemn
+custom among the Greeks, of bewailing annually their first poet.
+Pausanias informs us, that before the yearly sacrifice to the Muses on
+Mount Helicon, the obsequies of Linus were performed, who had a statue
+and altar erected to him in that place. In this passage Homer is
+supposed to allude to that custom.
+
+See article Theseus, Gr. and Rom. Mythology.
+
+There were two kinds of dance—the Pyrrhic, and the common dance; both
+are here introduced. The Pyrrhic, or military, is performed by Youths
+wearing swords, the other by the virgins crowned with garlands. The
+Grecian dance is still performed in this manner in the oriental
+nations. The youths and maidens dance in a ring, beginning slowly; by
+degrees the music plays in quicker time, till at last they dance with
+the utmost swiftness; and towards the conclusion, they sing in a
+general chorus.
+
+The point of comparison is this. When the potter first tries the wheel
+to see “if it will run,” he moves it much faster than when at work.
+Thus it illustrates the rapidity of the dance.—Felton.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XIX:
+
+
+[Brave men are great weepers—was a proverbial saying in Greece.
+Accordingly there are few of Homer’s heroes who do not weep plenteously
+on occasion. True courage is doubtless compatible with the utmost
+sensibility. See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+The fear with which the divine armor filled the Myrmidons, and the
+exaltation of Achilles, the terrible gleam of his eye, and his
+increased desire for revenge, are highly poetical.—Felton.
+
+The ancients had a great horror of putrefaction previous to interment.
+
+[Achilles in the first book also summons a council himself, and not as
+was customary, by a herald. It seems a stroke of character, and
+intended by the poet to express the impetuosity of his spirit, too
+ardent for the observance of common forms, and that could trust no one
+for the dispatch he wanted.]—Tr.
+
+['Ασπασιως γονυ καμψειν.—Shall be glad to bend their knee, i.e. to sit
+and repose themselves.]—Tr.
+
+[Τουτον μυθον.—He seems to intend the reproaches sounded in his ear
+from all quarters, and which he had repeatedly heard before.]—Tr.
+
+[By some call’d Antibia, by others, Nicippe.]—Tr.
+
+It was unlawful to eat the flesh of victims that were sacrificed in
+confirmation of oaths. Such were victims of malediction.
+
+Nothing can be more natural than the representation of these unhappy
+young women; who, weary of captivity, take occasion from every mournful
+occurrence to weep afresh, though in reality little interested in the
+objects that call forth these expressions of sorrow.—Dacier.
+
+Son of Deidameia, daughter of Lycomedes, in whose house Achilles was
+concealed at the time when he was led forth to the war.
+
+[We are not warranted in accounting any practice unnatural or absurd,
+merely because it does not obtain among ourselves. I know not that any
+historian has recorded this custom of the Grecians, but that it was a
+custom among them occasionally to harangue their horses, we may assure
+ourselves on the authority of Homer, who would not have introduced such
+speeches, if they could have appeared as strange to his countrymen as
+they do to us.]—Tr.
+
+Hence it seems, that too great an insight into futurity, or the
+revelation of more than was expedient, was prevented by the
+Furies.—Trollope.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XX:
+
+
+[This rising ground was five stadia in circumference, and was between
+the river Simois and a village named Ilicon, in which Paris is said to
+have decided between the goddesses. It was called Callicolone, being
+the most conspicuous ground in the neighborhood of the
+city.—Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[Iris is the messenger of the gods on ordinary occasions, Mercury on
+those of importance. But Themis is now employed, because the affair in
+question is a council, and to assemble and dissolve councils is her
+peculiar Province. The return of Achilles is made as magnificent as
+possible. A council in heaven precedes it, and a battle of the gods is
+the consequence.—Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The readiness of Neptune to obey the summons is particularly noticed,
+on account of the resentment he so lately expressed, when commanded by
+Jupiter to quit the battle.—Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+The description of the battle of the gods is strikingly grand. Jupiter
+thunders in the heavens, Neptune shakes the boundless earth and the
+high mountain-tops; Ida rocks on its base, and the city of the Trojans
+and the ships of the Greeks tremble; and Pluto leaps from his throne in
+terror, lest his loathsome dominions should be laid open to mortals and
+immortals.—Felton.
+
+[The Leleges were a colony of Thessalians, and the first inhabitants of
+the shores of the Hellespont.]—Tr.
+
+Hector was the son of Priam, who descended from Ilus, and Æneas the son
+of Anchises, whose descent was from Assaracus, the brother of Ilus.
+
+This dialogue between Achilles and Æneas, when on the point of battle,
+as well as several others of a similar description, have been censured
+as improbable and impossible. The true explanation is to be found in
+the peculiar character of war in the heroic age. A similar passage has
+been the subject of remark.—Felton.
+
+[Some commentators, supposing the golden plate the outermost as the
+most ornamental, have perplexed themselves much with this passage, for
+how, say they, could two folds be pierced and the spear be stopped by
+the gold, if the gold lay on the surface? But to avoid the difficulty,
+we need only suppose that the gold was inserted between the two plates
+of brass and the two of tin; Vulcan, in this particular, having
+attended less to ornament than to security.
+
+See the Scholiast in Villoisson, who argues at large in favor of this
+opinion.]—Tr.
+
+Tmolus was a mountain of Lydia, and Hyda a city of the same country.
+The Gygæan lake was also in Lydia.
+
+[Neptune. So called, either because he was worshiped on Helicon, a
+mountain of Bœotia, or from Helice, an island of Achaia, where he had a
+temple.]—Tr.
+If the bull bellowed as he was led to the altar, it was considered a
+favorable omen. Hence the simile.—Felton.
+
+[It is an amiable trait in the character of Hector, that his pity in
+this instance supercedes his caution, and that at the sight of his
+brother in circumstances so affecting, he becomes at once inattentive
+to himself and the command of Apollo.]—Tr.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XXI:
+
+
+The scene is now entirely changed, and the battle diversified with a
+vast variety of imagery and description. It is worthy of notice, that
+though the whole war of the Iliad was upon the banks of these rivers,
+yet Homer has reserved the machinery of the river-gods to aggrandize
+his hero in this battle. There is no book in the poem which exhibits
+greater force of imagination, none in which the inexhaustible invention
+of the poet is more powerfully exerted.
+
+The swarms of locusts that sometimes invade whole countries in the
+East, have often been described. It seems that the ancient mode of
+exterminating them was, to kindle a fire, and thus drive them into a
+lake or river. The simile illustrates in the most striking manner the
+panic caused by Achilles.—Felton.
+
+According to the Scholiast, Arisba was a city of Thrace, and near to
+the Hellespont; but according to Eustathius, a city of Troas, inhabited
+by a colony from Mitylene.
+
+It was an ancient custom to cast living horses into rivers, to honor,
+as it were, the rapidity of their streams.
+
+This gives us an idea of the superior strength of Achilles. His spear
+pierced so deep in the ground, that another hero of great strength
+could not disengage it, but immediately after, Achilles draws it with
+the utmost ease.
+
+['Ακροκελαινιοων.—The beauty and force of this word are wonderful; I
+have in vain endeavored to do it justice.]—Tr.
+
+[The reason given in the Scholium is, that the surface being hardened
+by the wind, the moisture remains unexhaled from beneath, and has time
+to saturate the roots.—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[Αμβολαδην.]
+
+Homer represents Aphrodite as the protector of Æneas, and in the battle
+of the Trojans, Ares appears in a disadvantageous light; the weakness
+of the goddess, and the brutal confidence of the god are described with
+evident irony. In like manner Diana and the river-god Scamander
+sometimes play a very undignified part. Apollo alone uniformly
+maintains his dignity.—Muller.
+
+This is a very beautiful soliloquy of Agenor, such as would naturally
+arise in the soul of a brave man going upon a desperate enterprise.
+From the conclusion it is evident, that the story of Achilles being
+invulnerable except in the heel, is an invention of a later age.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XXII:
+
+
+This simile is very striking. It not only describes the appearance of
+Achilles, but is peculiarly appropriate because the star was supposed
+to be of evil omen, and to bring with it disease and destruction. So
+Priam beholds Achilles, splendid with the divine armor, and the
+destined slayer of his son.—Felton.
+
+The usual cruelties practised in the sacking of towns. Isaiah foretells
+to Babylon, that her children shall be dashed in pieces by the Medes.
+David says to the same city, “Happy shall he be that taketh and dasheth
+thy little ones against the stones.”—Ps. c22vii. 9.
+
+It was supposed that venomous serpents were accustomed to eat poisonous
+roots and plants before attacking their victims.—Felton.
+
+This speech of Hector shows the fluctuation of his mind, with much
+discernment on the part of the poet. He breaks out, after having
+apparently meditated a return to the city. But the imagined reproaches
+of Polydamas, and the anticipated scorn of the Trojans forbid it. He
+soliloquizes upon the possibility of coming to terms with Achilles, and
+offering him large concessions; but the character of Achilles precludes
+all hope of reconciliation. It is a fearful crisis with him, and his
+mind wavers, as if presentient of his approaching doom.—Felton.
+
+[The repetition follows the original, and the Scholiast is of opinion
+that Homer uses it here that he may express more emphatically the
+length to which such conferences are apt to proceed.—Δια την πολυλογιαν
+τη αναληψε εχρησατο.]—Tr.
+
+[It grew near to the tomb of Ilus.]
+
+The Scamander ran down the eastern side of Ida, and at the distance of
+three stadia from Troy, making a subterraneous dip, it passed under the
+walls and rose again in the form of the two fountains here
+described—from which fountains these rivulets are said to have
+proceeded.
+
+It was the custom of that age to have cisterns by the side of rivers
+and fountains, to which the women, including the wives and daughters of
+kings and princes, resorted to wash their garments.
+
+Sacrifices were offered to the gods upon the hills and mountains, or,
+in the language of scripture, upon the _high places_, for the people
+believed that the gods inhabited such eminences.
+
+[The numbers in the original are so constructed as to express the
+painful struggle that characterizes such a dream.]—Tr.
+
+[προπροκυλινδομενος.]
+
+The whole circumference of ancient Troy is said to have measured sixty
+stadia. A stadium measured one hundred and twenty-five paces.
+
+[The knees of the conqueror were a kind of sanctuary to which the
+vanquished fled for refuge.]—Tr.
+
+[The lines of which these three are a translation, are supposed by some
+to have been designed for the Επινικιον, or song of victory sung by the
+whole army.]—Tr.
+
+[It was a custom in Thessaly to drag the slayer around the tomb of the
+slain; which custom was first begun by Simon, whose brother being
+killed by Eurydamas, he thus treated the body of the murderer. Achilles
+therefore, being a Thessalian, when he thus dishonors Hector, does it
+merely in compliance with the common practice of his country.]—Tr.
+
+[It is an observation of the Scholiast, that two more affecting
+spectacles cannot be imagined, than Priam struggling to escape into the
+field, and Andromache to cast herself from the wall; for so he
+understands
+ατυζομενην απολεσθαι.]—Tr.
+
+A figurative expression. In the style of the orientals, marrow and
+fatness are taken for whatever is best, most tender, and most
+delicious.
+
+Homer is in nothing more excellent than in the distinction of
+characters, which he maintains throughout the poem. What Andromache
+here says, cannot be said with propriety by any one but Andromache.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XXIII:
+
+
+According to the oriental custom. David mourns in the same manner,
+refusing to wash or take any repast, and lies upon the earth.
+
+[Bacchus having hospitably entertained Vulcan in the island of Naxos,
+one of the Cyclades, received from him a cup as a present; but being
+driven afterward by Lycurgus into the sea, and kindly protected by
+Thetis, he presented her with this work of Vulcan, which she gave to
+Achilles for a receptacle of his bones after death.]—Tr.
+
+[The funeral pile was a square of a hundred feet on each side.]—Tr.
+
+The ceremony of cutting off the hair in honor of the dead, was
+practised not only among the Greeks, but among other nations. Ezekiel
+describing a great lamentation, says, “They shall make themselves
+utterly bald for thee.” ch. xxvii. 31. If it was the general custom of
+any country to wear long hair, then the cutting it off was a token of
+sorrow; but if the custom was to wear it short, then letting it grow,
+in neglect, was a sign of mourning.
+
+It was the custom of the ancients not only to offer their own hair to
+the river-gods of their country, but also the hair of their children.
+In Egypt hair was consecrated to the Nile.
+
+[Westering wheel.—Milton.]
+
+[Himself and the Myrmidons.]
+
+[That the body might be the more speedily consumed. The same end was
+promoted by the flagons of oil and honey.]—Tr.
+
+Homer here introduces the gods of the winds in person, and as Iris, or
+the rainbow, is a sign of winds, they are made to come at her bidding.
+
+[Such it appears to have been in the sequel.]—Tr.
+
+[Φιαλη—a vessel, as Athenæus describes it, made for the purpose of
+warming water. It was formed of brass, and expanded somewhat in the
+shape of a broad leaf.]—Tr.
+
+The poet omits no opportunity of paying honor to Nestor. His age has
+disabled him from taking an active part in the games, yet, Antilochus
+wins, not by the speed of his horses, but by the wisdom of Nestor.
+
+[This could not happen unless the felly of the wheel were nearly
+horizontal to the eye of the spectator, in which case the chariot must
+be infallibly overturned.—There is an obscurity in the passage which
+none of the commentators explain. The Scholiast, as quoted by Clarke,
+attempts an explanation, but, I think, not successfully.]—Tr.
+
+[Eumelus.]
+
+[Resentful of the attack made on him by Diomede in the fifth Book.]
+
+[The twin monster or double man called the Molions. They were sons of
+Actor and Molione, and are said to have had two heads with four hands
+and four feet, and being so formed were invincible both in battle and
+in athletic exercises. Even Hercules could only slay them by stratagem,
+which he did when he desolated Elis. See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The repetition follows the original.]—Tr.
+
+[παρακαββαλε.]
+
+ [With which they bound on the cestus.]—Tr.
+
+[τετριγει—It is a circumstance on which the Scholiast observes that it
+denotes in a wrestler the greatest possible bodily strength and
+firmness of position.—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[I have given what seems to me the most probable interpretation, and
+such a one as to any person who has ever witnessed a wrestling-match,
+will, I presume, appear intelligible.]—Tr.
+
+[The Sidonians were celebrated not only as the most ingenious artists
+but as great adepts in science, especially in astronomy and
+arithmetical calculation.]—Tr.
+
+[King of Lemnos.]
+
+[That is to say, Ulysses; who, from the first intending it, had run
+close behind him.]—Tr.
+
+The prodigious weight and size of the quoit is described with the
+simplicity of the orientals, and in the manner of the heroic ages. The
+poet does not specify the quantity of this enormous piece of iron, but
+the use it will be to the winner. We see from hence that the ancients
+in the prizes they proposed, had in view not only the honorable but the
+useful; a captive for work, a bull for tillage, a quoit for the
+provision of iron, which in those days was scarce.
+
+[The use of this staff was to separate the cattle. It had a string
+attached to the lower part of it, which the herdsman wound about his
+hand, and by the help of it whirled the staff to a prodigious
+distance.—Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+[The transition from narrative to dramatic follows the original.]—Tr.
+
+[Apollo; frequently by Homer called the King without any addition.]—Tr.
+
+Teucer is eminent for his archery, yet he is excelled by Meriones, who
+had not neglected to invoke Apollo the god of archery.
+
+
+
+
+Footnotes for Book XXIV:
+
+
+This is the first allusion in the Iliad to the _Judgment of Paris_,
+which gave mortal offence to Minerva and Juno. On this account it has
+been supposed by some that these lines are spurious, on the ground that
+Homer could not have known the fable, or he would have mentioned it
+earlier in the poem.—Felton.
+
+[His blessing, if he is properly influenced by it; his curse in its
+consequences if he is deaf to its dictates.]—Tr.
+
+[This is the sense preferred by the Scholiast, for it is not true that
+Thetis was always present with Achilles, as is proved by the passage
+immediately ensuing.]—Tr.
+
+[The angler’s custom was, in those days, to guard his line above the
+hook from the fishes’ bite, by passing it through a pipe of horn.]—Tr.
+
+[Jupiter justifies him against Apollo’s charge, affirming him to be
+free from those mental defects which chiefly betray men into sin,
+folly, improvidence, and perverseness.]—Tr.
+
+[But, at first, he did fly. It is therefore spoken, as the Scholiast
+observes,
+φιλοστοργως, and must be understood as the language of strong maternal
+affection.]—Tr.
+
+[κοροιτυπιησιν αριστοι.]
+
+[Through which the reins were passed.]—Tr.
+
+[The yoke being flat at the bottom, and the pole round, there would of
+course be a small aperture between the band and the pole on both sides,
+through which, according to the Scholium in Villoisson, they thrust the
+ends of the tackle lest they should dangle.]—Tr.
+
+[The text here is extremely intricate; as it stands now, the sons are,
+first, said to yoke the horses, then Priam and Idæus are said to do it,
+and in the palace too. I have therefore adopted an alteration suggested
+by Clarke, who with very little violence to the copy, proposes instead
+of ζευγνυσθην to read—ζωννυσθην.]—Tr.
+
+[The words both signify—sable.]—Tr.
+
+Priam begins not with a display of the treasures he has brought for the
+redemption of Hector’s body, but with a pathetic address to the
+feelings of Achilles. Homer well knew that neither gold nor silver
+would influence the heart of a young and generous warrior, but that
+persuasion would. The old king therefore, with a judicious abruptness,
+avails himself of his most powerful plea at once, and seizes the
+sympathy of the hero, before he has time to recollect who it is that
+addresses him.
+
+[Mortified to see his generosity, after so much kindness shown to
+Priam, still distrusted, and that the impatience of the old king
+threatened to deprive him of all opportunity to do gracefully what he
+could not be expected to do willingly.]—Tr.
+
+[To control anger argues a great mind—and to avoid occasions that may
+betray one into it, argues a still greater. An observation that should
+suggest itself to us with no little force, when Achilles, not
+remarkable either for patience or meekness, exhorts Priam to beware of
+provoking him; and when having cleansed the body of Hector and covered
+it, he places it himself in the litter, lest his father, seeing how
+indecently he had treated it, should be exasperated at the sight, and
+by some passionate reproach exasperate himself also. For that a person
+so singularly irascible and of a temper harsh as his, should not only
+be aware of his infirmity, but even guard against it with so much
+precaution, evidences a prudence truly wonderful.—Plutarch.]—Tr.
+
+['Επικερτομεων. Clarke renders the word in this place, _falso metû,
+ludens,_ and Eustathius says that Achilles suggested such cause of fear
+to Priam, to excuse his lodging him in an exterior part of the tent.
+The general import of the Greek word is sarcastic, but here it
+signifies rather—to intimidate. See also Dacier.]—Tr.
+
+The poet here shows the importance of Achilles in the army. Agamemnon
+is the general, yet all the chief commanders appeal to him for advice,
+and on his own authority he promises Priam a cessation of arms. Giving
+his hand to confirm the promise, agrees with the custom of the present
+day.
+
+This lament of Andromache may be compared to her pathetic address to
+Hector in the scene at the Scæan gate. It forms indeed, a most
+beautiful and eloquent pendant to that.—Felton.
+
+[This, according to the Scholiast, is a probable sense of προσφατος.—He
+derives it απο των νεωστι πεφασμενων εκ γης φυτων.—See Villoisson.]—Tr.
+
+Helen is throughout the Iliad a genuine lady, graceful in motion and
+speech, noble in her associations, full of remorse for a fault for
+which higher powers seem responsible, yet grateful and affectionate
+towards those with whom that fault had connected her. I have always
+thought the following speech in which Helen laments Hector and hints at
+her own invidious and unprotected situation in Troy, as almost the
+sweetest passage in the poem.—H.N. Coleridge.
+
+[Ως οι γ'αμφιεπον ταφον Εκτορος ιπποδαμοιο.]
+
+
+
+
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