Seven Against Thebes

Aeschylus

Aeschylus, Volume 1. Smyth, Herbert Weir, translator. London; New York: William Heinemann; G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1922.

  1. I am terrified—the crashing at the gates is increasing.
Eteocles
  1. Won’t you be silent, and speak none of this throughout the city?
Chorus
  1. Divine company, do not betray our fortifications!
Eteocles
  1. Damn you! Will you not endure these events in silence?
Chorus
  1. Gods of our city! Do not let my fate be slavery!
Eteocles
  1. You would enslave both me and all the city.
Chorus
  1. Almighty Zeus, turn your missile against the enemy!
Eteocles
  1. O Zeus, what a breed you have made for us in women!
Chorus
  1. A breed steeped in misery, just like men whose city is captured.
Eteocles
  1. Why are your words ill-omened, when you still grasp the gods’ statues?
Chorus
  1. In my weakness fear controls my tongue.
Eteocles
  1. If only you would grant my plea for a small service.
Chorus
  1. Please state it as quickly as possible, and I will quickly know what to do.