The Phoenician Women

Euripides

Euripides. The Plays of Euripides, Translated into English Prose from the Text of Paley. Vol. II. Coleridge, Edward P., translator. London: George Bell and Sons, 1891.

  1. where Menoeceus is, who led me here.
Creon
  1. Here, not far away, but at your side.
Teiresias
  1. Let him go far from my prophecies.
Creon
  1. He is my own son and will be silent as he ought.
Teiresias
  1. Do you want me to tell you in his presence?
Creon
  1. Yes, for he will rejoice to hear the means of safety.
Teiresias
  1. Then hear the intent of my oracle; if you observe it, you will save the city of Cadmus you must sacrifice Menoeceus, your son here, for your country, since you yourself are calling on fate.
Creon
  1. What do you mean? What is this you have said, old man?
Teiresias
  1. I have said what is, and you must do it.
Creon
  1. O great evil, spoken so briefly!
Teiresias
  1. Evil to you, but to your country great salvation.
Creon
  1. I did not hear; I never listened; I renounce my city!
Teiresias
  1. The man is no longer himself; he is drawing back.
Creon
  1. Go in peace; it is not your prophecy I need.
Teiresias
  1. Is truth dead, because you are unfortunate?
Creon
  1. By your knees and gray hair—
Teiresias
  1. Why implore me? You are demanding evils that are hard to prevent.
Creon
  1. Be silent; do not tell the city your news.
Teiresias
  1. You bid me to act unjustly; I cannot be silent.
Creon
  1. What will you do to me? Kill my child?