Iliad

The Trojans, beat past pale and dike, and numbers prostrate laid,

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ διά τε σκόλοπας καὶ τάφρον ἔβησαν

All got to chariot, fear-driv'n all, and fear'd as men dismay'd.

φεύγοντες, πολλοὶ δὲ δάμεν Δαναῶν ὑπὸ χερσίν,

Then Jove on Ida's top awak'd, rose from Saturnia's side,

οἳ μὲν δὴ παρʼ ὄχεσφιν ἐρητύοντο μένοντες

Stood up, and look'd upon the war; and all inverted spied

χλωροὶ ὑπαὶ δείους πεφοβημένοι· ἔγρετο δὲ Ζεὺς

Since he had seen it; th' Ilians now in rout, the Greeks in fight;

Ἴδης ἐν κορυφῇσι παρὰ χρυσοθρόνου Ἥρης,

King Neptune, with his long sword, chief; great Hector put down quite,

στῆ δʼ ἄρʼ ἀναΐξας, ἴδε δὲ Τρῶας καὶ Ἀχαιοὺς

Laid flat in field, and with a crown of princes compasséd

τοὺς μὲν ὀρινομένους, τοὺς δὲ κλονέοντας ὄπισθεν

So stopp'd up that he scarce could breathe, his mind's sound habit fled,

Ἀργείους, μετὰ δέ σφι Ποσειδάωνα ἄνακτα·

And he still spitting blood. Indeed, his hurt was not set on

Ἕκτορα δʼ ἐν πεδίῳ ἴδε κείμενον, ἀμφὶ δʼ ἑταῖροι

By one that was the weakest Greek. But him Jove look'd upon

εἵαθʼ, ὃ δʼ ἀργαλέῳ ἔχετʼ ἄσθματι κῆρ ἀπινύσσων

With eyes of pity; on his wife with horrible aspéct,

αἷμʼ ἐμέων, ἐπεὶ οὔ μιν ἀφαυρότατος βάλʼ Ἀχαιῶν.

To whom he said: “O thou in ill most cunning architect,

τὸν δὲ ἰδὼν ἐλέησε πατὴρ ἀνδρῶν τε θεῶν τε,

All arts and comments that exceed'st! not only to enforce

δεινὰ δʼ ὑπόδρα ἰδὼν Ἥρην πρὸς μῦθον ἔειπεν·

Hector from fight, but, with his men, to show the Greeks a course.

ἦ μάλα δὴ κακότεχνος ἀμήχανε σὸς δόλος Ἥρη

I fear, as formerly, so now, these ills have with thy hands

Ἕκτορα δῖον ἔπαυσε μάχης, ἐφόβησε δὲ λαούς.

Their first fruits sown, and therefore could load all thy limbs with bands,

οὐ μὰν οἶδʼ εἰ αὖτε κακορραφίης ἀλεγεινῆς

Forgett'st thou, when I hang'd thee up, how to thy feet I tied

πρώτη ἐπαύρηαι καί σε πληγῇσιν ἱμάσσω.

Two anvils, golden manacles on thy false wrists implied,

ἦ οὐ μέμνῃ ὅτε τʼ ἐκρέμω ὑψόθεν, ἐκ δὲ ποδοῖιν

And let thee mercilessly hang from our refinéd heav'n

ἄκμονας ἧκα δύω, περὶ χερσὶ δὲ δεσμὸν ἴηλα

Ev'n to earth's vapours; all the Gods in great Olympus giv'n

χρύσεον ἄρρηκτον; σὺ δʼ ἐν αἰθέρι καὶ νεφέλῃσιν

To mutinies about thee, yet, though all stood staring on,

ἐκρέμω· ἠλάστεον δὲ θεοὶ κατὰ μακρὸν Ὄλυμπον,

None durst dissolve thee, for these hands, had they but seiz'd upon

λῦσαι δʼ οὐκ ἐδύναντο παρασταδόν· ὃν δὲ λάβοιμι

Thy friend, had headlong thrown him off from our star-bearing round,

ῥίπτασκον τεταγὼν ἀπὸ βηλοῦ ὄφρʼ ἂν ἵκηται

Till he had tumbled out his breath, and piece-meal dash'd the ground?

γῆν ὀλιγηπελέων· ἐμὲ δʼ οὐδʼ ὧς θυμὸν ἀνίει

Nor was my angry spirit calm'd so soon, for those foul seas,

ἀζηχὴς ὀδύνη Ἡρακλῆος θείοιο,

On which, inducing northern flaws, thou shipwrack'dst Hercules,

τὸν σὺ ξὺν Βορέῃ ἀνέμῳ πεπιθοῦσα θυέλλας

And toss'd him to the Coan shore, that thou shouldst tempt again

πέμψας ἐπʼ ἀτρύγετον πόντον κακὰ μητιόωσα,

My wrath's importance, when thou seest, besides, how grossly vain

καί μιν ἔπειτα Κόων δʼ εὖ ναιομένην ἀπένεικας.

My pow'rs can make thy policies; for from their utmost force

τὸν μὲν ἐγὼν ἔνθεν ῥυσάμην καὶ ἀνήγαγον αὖτις

I freed my son, and set him safe in Argos, nurse of horse.

Ἄργος ἐς ἱππόβοτον καὶ πολλά περ ἀθλήσαντα.

These I remember to thy thoughts, that thou may'st shun these sleights,

τῶν σʼ αὖτις μνήσω ἵνʼ ἀπολλήξῃς ἀπατάων,

And know how badly bed-sports thrive, procur'd by base deceits.”

ὄφρα ἴδῃ ἤν τοι χραίσμῃ φιλότης τε καὶ εὐνή,

This frighted the offending queen, who with this state excus'd

ἣν ἐμίγης ἐλθοῦσα θεῶν ἄπο καί μʼ ἀπάτησας.

Her kind unkindness: “Witness Earth, and Heav'n so far diffus'd,

ὣς φάτο, ῥίγησεν δὲ βοῶπις πότνια Ἥρη,

Thou Flood whose silent gliding waves the under ground doth bear,

καί μιν φωνήσασʼ ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

(Which is the great'st and gravest oath, that any God can swear)

ἴστω νῦν τόδε Γαῖα καὶ Οὐρανὸς εὐρὺς ὕπερθε

Thy sacred head, those secret joys that our young bed gave forth,

καὶ τὸ κατειβόμενον Στυγὸς ὕδωρ, ὅς τε μέγιστος

By which I never rashly swore! that He who shakes the earth

ὅρκος δεινότατός τε πέλει μακάρεσσι θεοῖσι,

Not by my counsel did this wrong to Hector and his host,

σή θʼ ἱερὴ κεφαλὴ καὶ νωΐτερον λέχος αὐτῶν

But, pitying th' oppresséd Greeks, their fleet being nearly lost,

κουρίδιον, τὸ μὲν οὐκ ἂν ἐγώ ποτε μὰψ ὀμόσαιμι·

Reliev'd their hard conditión, yet utterly impell'd

μὴ διʼ ἐμὴν ἰότητα Ποσειδάων ἐνοσίχθων

By his free mind. Which since I see is so offensive held

πημαίνει Τρῶάς τε καὶ Ἕκτορα, τοῖσι δʼ ἀρήγει,

To thy high pleasure, I will now advise him not to tread

ἀλλά που αὐτὸν θυμὸς ἐποτρύνει καὶ ἀνώγει,

But where thy tempest-raising feet, O Jupiter, shall lead.”

τειρομένους δʼ ἐπὶ νηυσὶν ἰδὼν ἐλέησεν Ἀχαιούς.

Jove laugh'd to hear her so submiss, and said: “My fair-ey'd love,

αὐτάρ τοι καὶ κείνῳ ἐγὼ παραμυθησαίμην

If still thus thou and I were one, in counsels held above,

τῇ ἴμεν ᾗ κεν δὴ σὺ κελαινεφὲς ἡγεμονεύῃς.

Neptune would still in word and fact be ours, if not in heart.

ὣς φάτο, μείδησεν δὲ πατὴρ ἀνδρῶν τε θεῶν τε,

If then thy tongue and heart agree, from hence to heav'n depart,

καί μιν ἀμειβόμενος ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

To call the excellent-in-bows, the Rain-bow, and the Sun,

εἰ μὲν δὴ σύ γʼ ἔπειτα βοῶπις πότνια Ἥρη

That both may visit both the hosts; the Grecian army one,

ἶσον ἐμοὶ φρονέουσα μετʼ ἀθανάτοισι καθίζοις,

And that is Iris, let her haste, and make the Sea-god cease

τώ κε Ποσειδάων γε, καὶ εἰ μάλα βούλεται ἄλλῃ,

T' assist the Greeks, and to his court retire from war in peace;

αἶψα μεταστρέψειε νόον μετὰ σὸν καὶ ἐμὸν κῆρ.

Let Phœbus, on the Trojan part, inspire with wonted pow'r

ἀλλʼ εἰ δή ῥʼ ἐτεόν γε καὶ ἀτρεκέως ἀγορεύεις,

Great Hector's spirits, make his thoughts forget the late stern hour,

ἔρχεο νῦν μετὰ φῦλα θεῶν, καὶ δεῦρο κάλεσσον

And all his anguish, setting on his whole recover'd man

Ἶρίν τʼ ἐλθέμεναι καὶ Ἀπόλλωνα κλυτότοξον,

To make good his late grace in fight, and hold in constant wane

ὄφρʼ ἣ μὲν μετὰ λαὸν Ἀχαιῶν χαλκοχιτώνων

The Grecian glories, till they fall, in flight before the fleet

ἔλθῃ, καὶ εἴπῃσι Ποσειδάωνι ἄνακτι

Of vex'd Achilles. Which extreme will prove the mean to greet

παυσάμενον πολέμοιο τὰ ἃ πρὸς δώμαθʼ ἱκέσθαι,

Thee with thy wish, for then the eyes of great Æacides

Ἕκτορα δʼ ὀτρύνῃσι μάχην ἐς Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων,

(Made witness of the gen'ral ill, that doth so near him prease)

αὖτις δʼ ἐμπνεύσῃσι μένος, λελάθῃ δʼ ὀδυνάων

Will make his own particular look out, and by degrees

αἳ νῦν μιν τείρουσι κατὰ φρένας, αὐτὰρ Ἀχαιοὺς

Abate his wrath, that, though himself for no extremities

αὖτις ἀποστρέψῃσιν ἀνάλκιδα φύζαν ἐνόρσας,

Will seem reflected, yet his friend may get of him the grace

φεύγοντες δʼ ἐν νηυσὶ πολυκλήϊσι πέσωσι

To help his country in his arms; and he shall make fit place

Πηλεΐδεω Ἀχιλῆος· ὃ δʼ ἀνστήσει ὃν ἑταῖρον

For his full presence with his death, which shall be well fore-run;

Πάτροκλον· τὸν δὲ κτενεῖ ἔγχεϊ φαίδιμος Ἕκτωρ

For I will first renown his life with slaughter of my son,

Ἰλίου προπάροιθε πολέας ὀλέσαντʼ αἰζηοὺς

Divine Sarpedon, and his death great Hector's pow'r shall wreak,

τοὺς ἄλλους, μετὰ δʼ υἱὸν ἐμὸν Σαρπηδόνα δῖον.

Ending his ends. Then, at once, out shall the fury break

τοῦ δὲ χολωσάμενος κτενεῖ Ἕκτορα δῖος Ἀχιλλεύς.

ἐκ τοῦ δʼ ἄν τοι ἔπειτα παλίωξιν παρὰ νηῶν

αἰὲν ἐγὼ τεύχοιμι διαμπερὲς εἰς ὅ κʼ Ἀχαιοὶ

Ἴλιον αἰπὺ ἕλοιεν Ἀθηναίης διὰ βουλάς.

τὸ πρὶν δʼ οὔτʼ ἄρʼ ἐγὼ παύω χόλον οὔτέ τινʼ ἄλλον

ἀθανάτων Δαναοῖσιν ἀμυνέμεν ἐνθάδʼ ἐάσω

πρίν γε τὸ Πηλεΐδαο τελευτηθῆναι ἐέλδωρ,

Of fierce Achilles, and, with that, the flight now felt shall turn,

ὥς οἱ ὑπέστην πρῶτον, ἐμῷ δʼ ἐπένευσα κάρητι,

And then last, till in wrathful flames the long-sieg'd Ilion burn.

ἤματι τῷ ὅτʼ ἐμεῖο θεὰ Θέτις ἥψατο γούνων,

Minerva's counsel shall become grave mean to this my will,

λισσομένη τιμῆσαι Ἀχιλλῆα πτολίπορθον.

Which no God shall neglect before Achilles take his fill

ὣς ἔφατʼ, οὐδʼ ἀπίθησε θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη,

Of slaughter for his slaughter'd friend; ev'n Hector's slaughter thrown

βῆ δʼ ἐξ Ἰδαίων ὀρέων ἐς μακρὸν Ὄλυμπον.

Under his anger; that these facts may then make fully known

ὡς δʼ ὅτʼ ἂν ἀΐξῃ νόος ἀνέρος, ὅς τʼ ἐπὶ πολλὴν

My vow's performance, made of late, and, with my bowéd head,

γαῖαν ἐληλουθὼς φρεσὶ πευκαλίμῃσι νοήσῃ

Confirm'd to Thetis, when her arms embrac'd my knees, and pray'd

ἔνθʼ εἴην ἢ ἔνθα, μενοινήῃσί τε πολλά,

That to her city-razing son I would all honour show.”

ὣς κραιπνῶς μεμαυῖα διέπτατο πότνια Ἥρη·

This heard, his charge she seem'd t' intend, and to Olympus flew.

ἵκετο δʼ αἰπὺν Ὄλυμπον, ὁμηγερέεσσι δʼ ἐπῆλθεν

But, as the mind of such a man that hath a great way gone,

ἀθανάτοισι θεοῖσι Διὸς δόμῳ· οἳ δὲ ἰδόντες

And either knowing not his way, or then would let alone

πάντες ἀνήϊξαν καὶ δεικανόωντο δέπασσιν.

His purpos'd journey, is distract, and in his vexéd mind

ἣ δʼ ἄλλους μὲν ἔασε, Θέμιστι δὲ καλλιπαρῄῳ

Resolves now not to go, now goes, still many ways inclin'd;

δέκτο δέπας· πρώτη γὰρ ἐναντίη ἦλθε θέουσα,

So rev'rend Juno headlong flew, and 'gainst her stomach striv'd,

καί μιν φωνήσασʼ ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

For, being amongst th' immortal Gods in high heav'n soon arriv'd,

Ἥρη τίπτε βέβηκας; ἀτυζομένῃ δὲ ἔοικας·

All rising, welcoming with cups her little absence thence,

ἦ μάλα δή σʼ ἐφόβησε Κρόνου πάϊς, ὅς τοι ἀκοίτης.

She all their courtships overpass'd with solemn negligence,

τὴν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη·

Save that which fair-cheek'd Themis show'd, and her kind cup she took,

μή με θεὰ Θέμι ταῦτα διείρεο· οἶσθα καὶ αὐτὴ

For first she ran and met with her, and ask'd: “What troubled look

οἷος κείνου θυμὸς ὑπερφίαλος καὶ ἀπηνής.

She brought to heav'n? She thought, for truth, that Jove had terrified

ἀλλὰ σύ γʼ ἄρχε θεοῖσι δόμοις ἔνι δαιτὸς ἐΐσης·

Her spirits strangely since she went.” The fair-arm'd Queen replied:

ταῦτα δὲ καὶ μετὰ πᾶσιν ἀκούσεαι ἀθανάτοισιν

“That truth may eas'ly be suppos'd; you, Goddess Themis, know

οἷα Ζεὺς κακὰ ἔργα πιφαύσκεται· οὐδέ τί φημι

His old severity and pride, but you bear't out with show,

πᾶσιν ὁμῶς θυμὸν κεχαρησέμεν, οὔτε βροτοῖσιν

And like the banquet's arbiter amongst th' Immortals' fare,

οὔτε θεοῖς, εἴ πέρ τις ἔτι νῦν δαίνυται εὔφρων.

Though well you hear amongst them all, how bad his actions are;

ἣ μὲν ἄρʼ ὣς εἰποῦσα καθέζετο πότνια Ἥρη,

Nor are all here, or anywhere, mortals, nor Gods, I fear,

ὄχθησαν δʼ ἀνὰ δῶμα Διὸς θεοί· ἣ δʼ ἐγέλασσε

Entirely pleas'd with what he does, though thus ye banquet here.”

χείλεσιν, οὐδὲ μέτωπον ἐπʼ ὀφρύσι κυανέῃσιν

Thus took she place, displeasedly; the feast in general

ἰάνθη· πᾶσιν δὲ νεμεσσηθεῖσα μετηύδα·

Bewraying privy spleens at Jove; and then, to colour all,

νήπιοι οἳ Ζηνὶ μενεαίνομεν ἀφρονέοντες·

She laugh'd, but merely from her lips, for over her black brows

ἦ ἔτι μιν μέμαμεν καταπαυσέμεν ἆσσον ἰόντες

Her still-bent forehead was not clear'd; yet this her passion's throes

ἢ ἔπει ἠὲ βίῃ· ὃ δʼ ἀφήμενος οὐκ ἀλεγίζει

Brought forth in spite, being lately school'd: “Alas, what fools are we

οὐδʼ ὄθεται· φησὶν γὰρ ἐν ἀθανάτοισι θεοῖσι

That envy Jove! Or that by act, word, thought, can fantasy

κάρτεΐ τε σθένεΐ τε διακριδὸν εἶναι ἄριστος.

Any resistance to his will! He sits far off, nor cares,

τὼ ἔχεθʼ ὅττί κεν ὔμμι κακὸν πέμπῃσιν ἑκάστῳ.

Nor moves, but says he knows his strength, to all degrees compares

ἤδη γὰρ νῦν ἔλπομʼ Ἄρηΐ γε πῆμα τετύχθαι·

His greatness past all other Gods, and that in fortitude,

υἱὸς γάρ οἱ ὄλωλε μάχῃ ἔνι φίλτατος ἀνδρῶν

And ev'ry other godlike pow'r, he reigns past all indu'd.

Ἀσκάλαφος, τόν φησιν ὃν ἔμμεναι ὄβριμος Ἄρης.

For which great eminence all you Gods, whatever ill he does,

ὣς ἔφατʼ, αὐτὰρ Ἄρης θαλερὼ πεπλήγετο μηρὼ

Sustain with patience. Here is Mars, I think, not free from woes,

χερσὶ καταπρηνέσσʼ, ὀλοφυρόμενος δʼ ἔπος ηὔδα·

And yet he bears them like himself. The great God had a son,

μὴ νῦν μοι νεμεσήσετʼ Ὀλύμπια δώματʼ ἔχοντες

Whom he himself yet justifies, one that from all men won

τίσασθαι φόνον υἷος ἰόντʼ ἐπὶ νῆας Ἀχαιῶν,

Just surname of their best belov'd, Ascalaphus; yet he,

εἴ πέρ μοι καὶ μοῖρα Διὸς πληγέντι κεραυνῷ

By Jove's high grace to Troy, is slain.” Mars started horribly,

κεῖσθαι ὁμοῦ νεκύεσσι μεθʼ αἵματι καὶ κονίῃσιν.

As Juno knew he would, at this, beat with his hurl'd-out hands

ὣς φάτο, καί ῥʼ ἵππους κέλετο Δεῖμόν τε Φόβον τε

His brawny thighs, cried out, and said: “O you that have commands

ζευγνύμεν, αὐτὸς δʼ ἔντεʼ ἐδύσετο παμφανόωντα.

In these high temples, bear with me, if I revenge the death

ἔνθά κʼ ἔτι μείζων τε καὶ ἀργαλεώτερος ἄλλος

Of such a son. I'll to the fleet, and though I sink beneath

πὰρ Διὸς ἀθανάτοισι χόλος καὶ μῆνις ἐτύχθη,

The fate of being shot to hell, by Jove's fell thunder-stone,

εἰ μὴ Ἀθήνη πᾶσι περιδείσασα θεοῖσιν

And lie all grim'd amongst the dead with dust and blood, my son

ὦρτο διὲκ προθύρου, λίπε δὲ θρόνον ἔνθα θάασσε,

Revenge shall honour.” Then he charg'd Fear and Dismay to join

τοῦ δʼ ἀπὸ μὲν κεφαλῆς κόρυθʼ εἵλετο καὶ σάκος ὤμων,

His horse and chariot. He got arms, that over heav'n did shine

ἔγχος δʼ ἔστησε στιβαρῆς ἀπὸ χειρὸς ἑλοῦσα

And then a wrath more great and grave in Jove had been prepar'd

χάλκεον· ἣ δʼ ἐπέεσσι καθάπτετο θοῦρον Ἄρηα·

Against the Gods than Juno caus'd, if Pallas had not car'd

μαινόμενε φρένας ἠλὲ διέφθορας· ἦ νύ τοι αὔτως

More for the peace of heav'n than Mars; who leap'd out of her throne,

οὔατʼ ἀκουέμεν ἐστί, νόος δʼ ἀπόλωλε καὶ αἰδώς.

Rapt up her helmet, lance, and shield, and made her fane's porch groan

οὐκ ἀΐεις ἅ τέ φησι θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη

With her egression to his stay, and thus his rage defers:

ἣ δὴ νῦν πὰρ Ζηνὸς Ὀλυμπίου εἰλήλουθεν;

“Furious and foolish, th' art undone! Hast thou for nought thine ears?

ἦ ἐθέλεις αὐτὸς μὲν ἀναπλήσας κακὰ πολλὰ

Heard'st thou not Juno being arriv'd from heav'n's great King but now?

ἂψ ἴμεν Οὔλυμπον δὲ καὶ ἀχνύμενός περ ἀνάγκῃ,

Or wouldst thou he himself should rise, forc'd with thy rage, to show

αὐτὰρ τοῖς ἄλλοισι κακὸν μέγα πᾶσι φυτεῦσαι;

The dreadful pow'r she urg'd in him, so justly being stirr'd?

αὐτίκα γὰρ Τρῶας μὲν ὑπερθύμους καὶ Ἀχαιοὺς

Know, thou most impudent and mad, thy wrath had not inferr'd

λείψει, ὃ δʼ ἡμέας εἶσι κυδοιμήσων ἐς Ὄλυμπον,

Mischief to thee, but to us all. His spirit had instantly

μάρψει δʼ ἑξείης ὅς τʼ αἴτιος ὅς τε καὶ οὐκί.

Left both the hosts, and turn'd his hands to uproars in the sky,

τώ σʼ αὖ νῦν κέλομαι μεθέμεν χόλον υἷος ἑῆος·

Guilty and guiltless both to wrack in his high rage had gone.

ἤδη γάρ τις τοῦ γε βίην καὶ χεῖρας ἀμείνων

And therefore, as thou lov'st thyself, cease fury for thy son;

ἢ πέφατʼ, ἢ καὶ ἔπειτα πεφήσεται· ἀργαλέον δὲ

Another, far exceeding him in heart and strength of hand,

πάντων ἀνθρώπων ῥῦσθαι γενεήν τε τόκον τε.

Or is, or will be shortly, slain. It were a work would stand

ὣς εἰποῦσʼ ἵδρυσε θρόνῳ ἔνι θοῦρον Ἄρηα.

Jove in much trouble, to free all from death that would not die.”

Ἥρη δʼ Ἀπόλλωνα καλέσσατο δώματος ἐκτὸς

Ἶρίν θʼ, ἥ τε θεοῖσι μετάγγελος ἀθανάτοισι,

καί σφεας φωνήσασʼ ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

Ζεὺς σφὼ εἰς Ἴδην κέλετʼ ἐλθέμεν ὅττι τάχιστα·

αὐτὰρ ἐπὴν ἔλθητε, Διός τʼ εἰς ὦπα ἴδησθε,

ἕρδειν ὅττί κε κεῖνος ἐποτρύνῃ καὶ ἀνώγῃ.

ἣ μὲν ἄρʼ ὣς εἰποῦσα πάλιν κίε πότνια Ἥρη,

This threat ev'n nail'd him to his throne; when heav'n's chief Majesty

ἕζετο δʼ εἰνὶ θρόνῳ· τὼ δʼ ἀΐξαντε πετέσθην.

Call'd bright Apollo from his fane, and Iris that had place

Ἴδην δʼ ἵκανον πολυπίδακα μητέρα θηρῶν,

Of internunciess from the Gods, to whom she did the grace

εὗρον δʼ εὐρύοπα Κρονίδην ἀνὰ Γαργάρῳ ἄκρῳ

Of Jupiter, to this effect: “It is Saturnius' will,

ἥμενον· ἀμφὶ δέ μιν θυόεν νέφος ἐστεφάνωτο.

That both, with utmost speed, should stoop to the Idalian hill,

τὼ δὲ πάροιθʼ ἐλθόντε Διὸς νεφεληγερέταο

To know his further pleasure there. And this let me advise,

στήτην· οὐδέ σφωϊν ἰδὼν ἐχολώσατο θυμῷ,

When you arrive, and are in reach of his refulgent eyes,

ὅττί οἱ ὦκʼ ἐπέεσσι φίλης ἀλόχοιο πιθέσθην.

His pleasure heard, perform it all, of whatsoever kind.”

Ἶριν δὲ προτέρην ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

Thus mov'd she back, and us'd her throne. Those two outstripp'd the wind,

βάσκʼ ἴθι Ἶρι ταχεῖα, Ποσειδάωνι ἄνακτι

And Ida all-enchas'd with springs they soon attain'd, and found

πάντα τάδʼ ἀγγεῖλαι, μὴ δὲ ψευδάγγελος εἶναι.

Where far-discerning Jupiter, in his repose, had crown'd

παυσάμενόν μιν ἄνωχθι μάχης ἠδὲ πτολέμοιο

The brows of Gargarus, and wrapt an odorif'rous cloud

ἔρχεσθαι μετὰ φῦλα θεῶν ἢ εἰς ἅλα δῖαν.

About his bosom. Coming near, they stood. Nor now he show'd

εἰ δέ μοι οὐκ ἐπέεσσʼ ἐπιπείσεται, ἀλλʼ ἀλογήσει,

His angry count'nance, since so soon he saw they made th' access

φραζέσθω δὴ ἔπειτα κατὰ φρένα καὶ κατὰ θυμὸν

That his lov'd wife enjoin'd; but first the fair ambassadress

μή μʼ οὐδὲ κρατερός περ ἐὼν ἐπιόντα ταλάσσῃ

He thus commanded: “Iris, go to Neptune, and relate

μεῖναι, ἐπεί εὑ φημὶ βίῃ πολὺ φέρτερος εἶναι

Our pleasure truly, and at large. Command him from the fate

καὶ γενεῇ πρότερος· τοῦ δʼ οὐκ ὄθεται φίλον ἦτορ

Of human war, and either greet the Gods' society,

ἶσον ἐμοὶ φάσθαι, τόν τε στυγέουσι καὶ ἄλλοι.

Or the divine sea make his seat. If proudly he deny,

ὣς ἔφατʼ, οὐδʼ ἀπίθησε ποδήνεμος ὠκέα Ἶρις,

Let better counsels be his guides, than such as bid me war,

βῆ δὲ κατʼ Ἰδαίων ὀρέων εἰς Ἴλιον ἱρήν.

And tempt my charge, though he be strong, for I am stronger far,

ὡς δʼ ὅτʼ ἂν ἐκ νεφέων πτῆται νιφὰς ἠὲ χάλαζα

And elder born. Nor let him dare, to boast even state with me

ψυχρὴ ὑπὸ ῥιπῆς αἰθρηγενέος Βορέαο,

Whom all Gods else prefer in fear.” This said, down hasted she

ὣς κραιπνῶς μεμαυῖα διέπτατο ὠκέα Ἶρις,

From Ida's top to Ilion; and like a mighty snow,

ἀγχοῦ δʼ ἱσταμένη προσέφη κλυτὸν ἐννοσίγαιον·

Or gelid hail, that from the clouds the northern spirit doth blow;

ἀγγελίην τινά τοι γαιήοχε κυανοχαῖτα

So fell the windy-footed dame, and found with quick repair

ἦλθον δεῦρο φέρουσα παραὶ Διὸς αἰγιόχοιο.

The wat'ry God, to whom she said: “God with the sable hair,

παυσάμενόν σʼ ἐκέλευσε μάχης ἠδὲ πτολέμοιο

I came from Ægis-bearing Jove, to bid thee cease from fight,

ἔρχεσθαι μετὰ φῦλα θεῶν ἢ εἰς ἅλα δῖαν.

And visit heav'n, or th' ample seas. Which if, in his despite,

εἰ δέ οἱ οὐκ ἐπέεσσʼ ἐπιπείσεαι, ἀλλʼ ἀλογήσεις,

Or disobedience, thou deniest, he threatens thee to come,

ἠπείλει καὶ κεῖνος ἐναντίβιον πολεμίξων

In opposite fight, to field himself; and therefore warns thee home,

ἐνθάδʼ ἐλεύσεσθαι· σὲ δʼ ὑπεξαλέασθαι ἄνωγε

His hands eschewing, since his pow'r is far-superior,

χεῖρας, ἐπεὶ σέο φησὶ βίῃ πολὺ φέρτερος εἶναι

His birth before thee; and affirms, thy lov'd heart should abhor

καὶ γενεῇ πρότερος· σὸν δʼ οὐκ ὄθεται φίλον ἦτορ

To vaunt equality with him, whom ev'ry Deity fears.”

ἶσόν οἱ φάσθαι, τόν τε στυγέουσι καὶ ἄλλοι.

He answer'd: “O unworthy thing! Though he be great, he bears

τὴν δὲ μέγʼ ὀχθήσας προσέφη κλυτὸς ἐννοσίγαιος·

His tongue too proudly, that ourself, born to an equal share

ὢ πόποι ἦ ῥʼ ἀγαθός περ ἐὼν ὑπέροπλον ἔειπεν

Of state and freedom, he would force. Three brothers born we are

εἴ μʼ ὁμότιμον ἐόντα βίῃ ἀέκοντα καθέξει.

To Saturn, Rhea brought us forth, this Jupiter, and I.

τρεῖς γάρ τʼ ἐκ Κρόνου εἰμὲν ἀδελφεοὶ οὓς τέκετο Ῥέα

And Pluto, God of under-grounds. The world indiff'rently

Ζεὺς καὶ ἐγώ, τρίτατος δʼ Ἀΐδης ἐνέροισιν ἀνάσσων.

Dispos'd betwixt us; ev'ry one his kingdom; I the seas,

τριχθὰ δὲ πάντα δέδασται, ἕκαστος δʼ ἔμμορε τιμῆς·

Pluto the black lot, Jupiter the principalities

ἤτοι ἐγὼν ἔλαχον πολιὴν ἅλα ναιέμεν αἰεὶ

Of broad heav'n, all the sky and clouds, was sorted out. The earth

παλλομένων, Ἀΐδης δʼ ἔλαχε ζόφον ἠερόεντα,

And high Olympus common are, and due to either's birth.

Ζεὺς δʼ ἔλαχʼ οὐρανὸν εὐρὺν ἐν αἰθέρι καὶ νεφέλῃσι·

Why then should I be aw'd by him? Content he his great heart

γαῖα δʼ ἔτι ξυνὴ πάντων καὶ μακρὸς Ὄλυμπος.

With his third portion, and not think, to amplify his part,

τώ ῥα καὶ οὔ τι Διὸς βέομαι φρεσίν, ἀλλὰ ἕκηλος

With terrors of his stronger hands, on me, as if I were

καὶ κρατερός περ ἐὼν μενέτω τριτάτῃ ἐνὶ μοίρῃ.

The most ignoble of us all. Let him contain in fear

χερσὶ δὲ μή τί με πάγχυ κακὸν ὣς δειδισσέσθω·

His daughters and his sons, begot by his own person, This

θυγατέρεσσιν γάρ τε καὶ υἱάσι βέλτερον εἴη

Holds more convenience. They must hear these violent threats of his.”

ἐκπάγλοις ἐπέεσσιν ἐνισσέμεν οὓς τέκεν αὐτός,

“Shall I,” said Iris, “bear from thee, an answer so austere?

οἵ ἑθεν ὀτρύνοντος ἀκούσονται καὶ ἀνάγκῃ.

Or wilt thou change it? Changing minds, all noble natures bear.

τὸν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα ποδήνεμος ὠκέα Ἶρις·

And well thou know'st, these greatest born, the Furies follow still.”

οὕτω γὰρ δή τοι γαιήοχε κυανοχαῖτα

He answer'd: “Iris, thy reply keeps time, and shows thy skill.

τόνδε φέρω Διὶ μῦθον ἀπηνέα τε κρατερόν τε,

O 'tis a most praiseworthy thing, when messengers can tell,

ἦ τι μεταστρέψεις; στρεπταὶ μέν τε φρένες ἐσθλῶν.

Besides their messages, such things, as fit th' occasion well.

οἶσθʼ ὡς πρεσβυτέροισιν Ἐρινύες αἰὲν ἕπονται.

But this much grieves my heart and soul, that being in pow'r and state

τὴν δʼ αὖτε προσέειπε Ποσειδάων ἐνοσίχθων·

All-ways his equal, and so fix'd by one decree in fate,

Ἶρι θεὰ μάλα τοῦτο ἔπος κατὰ μοῖραν ἔειπες·

He should to me, as under him, ill language give, and chide.

ἐσθλὸν καὶ τὸ τέτυκται ὅτʼ ἄγγελος αἴσιμα εἰδῇ.

Yet now, though still incens'd, I yield, affirming this beside,

ἀλλὰ τόδʼ αἰνὸν ἄχος κραδίην καὶ θυμὸν ἱκάνει

And I enforce it with a threat: That if without consent

ὁππότʼ ἂν ἰσόμορον καὶ ὁμῇ πεπρωμένον αἴσῃ

Of me, Minerva, Mercury, the Queen of regiment,

νεικείειν ἐθέλῃσι χολωτοῖσιν ἐπέεσσιν.

And Vulcan, he will either spare high Ilion, or not race

ἀλλʼ ἤτοι νῦν μέν κε νεμεσσηθεὶς ὑποείξω·

Her turrets to the lowest stone, and, with both these, not grace

ἄλλο δέ τοι ἐρέω, καὶ ἀπειλήσω τό γε θυμῷ·

The Greeks as victors absolute, inform him this from me—

αἴ κεν ἄνευ ἐμέθεν καὶ Ἀθηναίης ἀγελείης

His pride and my contempt shall live at endless enmity.”

Ἥρης Ἑρμείω τε καὶ Ἡφαίστοιο ἄνακτος

This said, he left the Greeks, and rush'd into his wat'ry throne,

Ἰλίου αἰπεινῆς πεφιδήσεται, οὐδʼ ἐθελήσει

Much miss'd of all th' heroic host. When Jove discern'd him gone,

ἐκπέρσαι, δοῦναι δὲ μέγα κράτος Ἀργείοισιν,

Apollo's service he employ'd, and said: “Lov'd Phœbus, go

ἴστω τοῦθʼ ὅτι νῶϊν ἀνήκεστος χόλος ἔσται.

To Hector; now th' earth-shaking God hath taken sea, and so

ὣς εἰπὼν λίπε λαὸν Ἀχαιϊκὸν ἐννοσίγαιος,

δῦνε δὲ πόντον ἰών, πόθεσαν δʼ ἥρωες Ἀχαιοί.

καὶ τότʼ Ἀπόλλωνα προσέφη νεφεληγερέτα Ζεύς·

ἔρχεο νῦν φίλε Φοῖβε μεθʼ Ἕκτορα χαλκοκορυστήν·

ἤδη μὲν γάρ τοι γαιήοχος ἐννοσίγαιος

οἴχεται εἰς ἅλα δῖαν ἀλευάμενος χόλον αἰπὺν

Shrunk from the horrors I denounc'd; which standing, he, and all

ἡμέτερον· μάλα γάρ κε μάχης ἐπύθοντο καὶ ἄλλοι,

The under-seated Deities, that circle Saturn's fall,

οἵ περ ἐνέρτεροί εἰσι θεοὶ Κρόνον ἀμφὶς ἐόντες.

Had heard of me in such a fight as had gone hard for them.

ἀλλὰ τόδʼ ἠμὲν ἐμοὶ πολὺ κέρδιον ἠδέ οἱ αὐτῷ

But both for them and me 'tis best, that thus they fly th' extreme,

ἔπλετο, ὅττι πάροιθε νεμεσσηθεὶς ὑπόειξε

That had not pass'd us without sweat. Now then, in thy hands take

χεῖρας ἐμάς, ἐπεὶ οὔ κεν ἀνιδρωτί γʼ ἐτελέσθη.

My adder-fring'd affrighting shield, which with such terror shake,

ἀλλὰ σύ γʼ ἐν χείρεσσι λάβʼ αἰγίδα θυσσανόεσσαν,

That fear may shake the Greeks to flight. Besides this, add thy care,

τῇ μάλʼ ἐπισσείων φοβέειν ἥρωας Ἀχαιούς·

O Phœbus, far-off shooting God, that this so sickly fare

σοὶ δʼ αὐτῷ μελέτω ἑκατηβόλε φαίδιμος Ἕκτωρ·

Of famous Hector be recur'd, and quickly so excite

τόφρα γὰρ οὖν οἱ ἔγειρε μένος μέγα, ὄφρʼ ἂν Ἀχαιοὶ

His amplest pow'rs, that all the Greeks may grace him with their flight,

φεύγοντες νῆάς τε καὶ Ἑλλήσποντον ἵκωνται.

Ev'n to their ships, and Hellespont; and then will I devise

κεῖθεν δʼ αὐτὸς ἐγὼ φράσομαι ἔργον τε ἔπος τε,

All words and facts again for Greece, that largely may suffice

ὥς κε καὶ αὖτις Ἀχαιοὶ ἀναπνεύσωσι πόνοιο.

To breathe them from their instant toils.” Thus from th' Idæan height,

ὣς ἔφατʼ, οὐδʼ ἄρα πατρὸς ἀνηκούστησεν Ἀπόλλων,

Like air's swift pigeon-killer, stoop'd the far-shot God of light,

βῆ δὲ κατʼ Ἰδαίων ὀρέων ἴρηκι ἐοικὼς

And found great Hector sitting up, not stretch'd upon his bed,

ὠκέϊ φασσοφόνῳ, ὅς τʼ ὤκιστος πετεηνῶν.

Not wheezing with a stopp'd-up spirit, not in cold sweats, but fed

εὗρʼ υἱὸν Πριάμοιο δαΐφρονος Ἕκτορα δῖον

With fresh and comfortable veins, but his mind all his own,

ἥμενον, οὐδʼ ἔτι κεῖτο, νέον δʼ ἐσαγείρετο θυμόν,

But round about him all his friends, as well as ever known.

ἀμφὶ ἓ γιγνώσκων ἑτάρους· ἀτὰρ ἆσθμα καὶ ἱδρὼς

And this was with the mind of Jove, that flew to him before

παύετʼ, ἐπεί μιν ἔγειρε Διὸς νόος αἰγιόχοιο.

Apollo came; who, as he saw no sign of any sore,

ἀγχοῦ δʼ ἱστάμενος προσέφη ἑκάεργος Ἀπόλλων·

Ask'd, like a cheerful visitant: “Why in this sickly kind,

Ἕκτορ υἱὲ Πριάμοιο, τί ἢ δὲ σὺ νόσφιν ἀπʼ ἄλλων

Great Hector, sitt'st thou so apart? Can any grief of mind

ἧσʼ ὀλιγηπελέων; ἦ πού τί σε κῆδος ἱκάνει;

Invade thy fortitude?” He spake, but with a feeble voice:

τὸν δʼ ὀλιγοδρανέων προσέφη κορυθαίολος Ἕκτωρ·

“O thou, the best of Deities! Why, since I thus rejoice

τίς δὲ σύ ἐσσι φέριστε θεῶν ὅς μʼ εἴρεαι ἄντην;

By thy so serious benefit, demand'st thou, as in mirth,

οὐκ ἀΐεις ὅ με νηυσὶν ἔπι πρυμνῇσιν Ἀχαιῶν

And to my face, if I were ill? For, more than what thy worth

οὓς ἑτάρους ὀλέκοντα βοὴν ἀγαθὸς βάλεν Αἴας

Must needs take note of, doth not Fame from all mouths fill thine ears,

χερμαδίῳ πρὸς στῆθος, ἔπαυσε δὲ θούριδος ἀλκῆς;

That, as my hand at th' Achive fleet was making massacres

καὶ δὴ ἔγωγʼ ἐφάμην νέκυας καὶ δῶμʼ Ἀΐδαο

Of men whom valiant Ajax led, his strength strook with a stone

ἤματι τῷδʼ ἵξεσθαι, ἐπεὶ φίλον ἄϊον ἦτορ.

All pow'r of more hurt from my breast? My very soul was gone,

τὸν δʼ αὖτε προσέειπεν ἄναξ ἑκάεργος Ἀπόλλων·

And once to-day I thought to see the house of Dis and Death.”

θάρσει νῦν· τοῖόν τοι ἀοσσητῆρα Κρονίων

“Be strong,” said he, “for such a spirit now sends the God of breath

ἐξ Ἴδης προέηκε παρεστάμεναι καὶ ἀμύνειν

From airy Ida, as shall run through all Greek spirits in thee.

Φοῖβον Ἀπόλλωνα χρυσάορον, ὅς σε πάρος περ

Apollo with the golden sword, the clear Far-seer, see,

ῥύομʼ, ὁμῶς αὐτόν τε καὶ αἰπεινὸν πτολίεθρον.

Him, who betwixt death and thy life, 'twixt ruin and those tow'rs,

ἀλλʼ ἄγε νῦν ἱππεῦσιν ἐπότρυνον πολέεσσι

Ere this day oft hath held his shield. Come then, be all thy pow'rs

νηυσὶν ἔπι γλαφυρῇσιν ἐλαυνέμεν ὠκέας ἵππους·

In wonted vigour, let thy knights with all their horse assay

αὐτὰρ ἐγὼ προπάροιθε κιὼν ἵπποισι κέλευθον

The Grecian fleet, myself will lead, and scour so clear the way,

πᾶσαν λειανέω, τρέψω δʼ ἥρωας Ἀχαιούς.

That flight shall leave no Greek a rub.” Thus instantly inspir'd

ὣς εἰπὼν ἔμπνευσε μένος μέγα ποιμένι λαῶν.

Were all his nerves with matchless strength; and then his friends he fir'd

ὡς δʼ ὅτε τις στατὸς ἵππος ἀκοστήσας ἐπὶ φάτνῃ

Against their foes, when to his eyes his ears confirm'd the God.

δεσμὸν ἀπορρήξας θείῃ πεδίοιο κροαίνων

Then, as a goodly-headed hart, or goat, bred in the wood,

εἰωθὼς λούεσθαι ἐϋρρεῖος ποταμοῖο

A rout of country huntsmen chase, with all their hounds in cry,

κυδιόων· ὑψοῦ δὲ κάρη ἔχει, ἀμφὶ δὲ χαῖται

The beast yet or the shady woods, or rocks excessive high,

ὤμοις ἀΐσσονται· ὃ δʼ ἀγλαΐηφι πεποιθὼς

Keep safe, or our unwieldy fates (that ev'n in hunters sway)

ῥίμφά ἑ γοῦνα φέρει μετά τʼ ἤθεα καὶ νομὸν ἵππων·

Bar them the poor beast's pulling down; when straight the clam'rous fray

ὣς Ἕκτωρ λαιψηρὰ πόδας καὶ γούνατʼ ἐνώμα

Calls out a lion, hugely-man'd, and his abhorréd view

ὀτρύνων ἱππῆας, ἐπεὶ θεοῦ ἔκλυεν αὐδήν.

Turns headlong in unturning flight (though vent'rous) all the crew;

οἳ δʼ ὥς τʼ ἢ ἔλαφον κεραὸν ἢ ἄγριον αἶγα

So hitherto the chasing Greeks their slaughter dealt by troops;

ἐσσεύαντο κύνες τε καὶ ἀνέρες ἀγροιῶται·

But, after Hector was beheld range here and there, then stoops

τὸν μέν τʼ ἠλίβατος πέτρη καὶ δάσκιος ὕλη

The boldest courage, then their heels took in their drooping hearts,

εἰρύσατʼ, οὐδʼ ἄρα τέ σφι κιχήμεναι αἴσιμον ἦεν·

And then spake Andræmonides, a man of far-best parts

τῶν δέ θʼ ὑπὸ ἰαχῆς ἐφάνη λὶς ἠϋγένειος

Of all the Ætolians, skill'd in darts, strenuous in fights of stand,

εἰς ὁδόν, αἶψα δὲ πάντας ἀπέτραπε καὶ μεμαῶτας·

And one of whom few of the Greeks could get the better hand

ὣς Δαναοὶ εἷος μὲν ὁμιλαδὸν αἰὲν ἕποντο

For rhetoric, when they fought with words; with all which being wise,

νύσσοντες ξίφεσίν τε καὶ ἔγχεσιν ἀμφιγύοισιν·

Thus spake he to his Grecian friends: “O mischief! Now mine eyes

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ ἴδον Ἕκτορʼ ἐποιχόμενον στίχας ἀνδρῶν

Discern no little miracle; Hector escap'd from death,

τάρβησαν, πᾶσιν δὲ παραὶ ποσὶ κάππεσε θυμός.

And all-recover'd, when all thought his soul had sunk beneath

τοῖσι δʼ ἔπειτʼ ἀγόρευε Θόας Ἀνδραίμονος υἱός,

The hands of Ajax. But some God hath sav'd and freed again

Αἰτωλῶν ὄχʼ ἄριστος ἐπιστάμενος μὲν ἄκοντι

Him that but now dissolv'd the knees of many a Grecian,

ἐσθλὸς δʼ ἐν σταδίῃ· ἀγορῇ δέ ἑ παῦροι Ἀχαιῶν

And now I fear will weaken more; for, not without the hand

νίκων, ὁππότε κοῦροι ἐρίσσειαν περὶ μύθων·

Of Him that thunders, can his pow'rs thus still the forefights stand,

ὅ σφιν ἐϋφρονέων ἀγορήσατο καὶ μετέειπεν·

Thus still triumphant. Hear me then: Our troops in quick retreat

ὢ πόποι ἦ μέγα θαῦμα τόδʼ ὀφθαλμοῖσιν ὁρῶμαι,

Let's draw up to our fleet, and we, that boast ourselves the great,

οἷον δʼ αὖτʼ ἐξαῦτις ἀνέστη κῆρας ἀλύξας

Stand firm, and try if these that raise so high their charging darts

Ἕκτωρ· ἦ θήν μιν μάλα ἔλπετο θυμὸς ἑκάστου

May be resisted. I believe, ev'n this great heart of hearts

χερσὶν ὑπʼ Αἴαντος θανέειν Τελαμωνιάδαο.

Will fear himself to be too bold, in charging thorow us.”

ἀλλά τις αὖτε θεῶν ἐρρύσατο καὶ ἐσάωσεν

They eas'ly heard him, and obey'd; when all the generous

Ἕκτορʼ, ὃ δὴ πολλῶν Δαναῶν ὑπὸ γούνατʼ ἔλυσεν,

ὡς καὶ νῦν ἔσσεσθαι ὀΐομαι· οὐ γὰρ ἄτερ γε

Ζηνὸς ἐριγδούπου πρόμος ἵσταται ὧδε μενοινῶν.

ἀλλʼ ἄγεθʼ ὡς ἂν ἐγὼν εἴπω πειθώμεθα πάντες.

πληθὺν μὲν ποτὶ νῆας ἀνώξομεν ἀπονέεσθαι·

αὐτοὶ δʼ, ὅσσοι ἄριστοι ἐνὶ στρατῷ εὐχόμεθʼ εἶναι,

στήομεν, εἴ κεν πρῶτον ἐρύξομεν ἀντιάσαντες

δούρατʼ ἀνασχόμενοι· τὸν δʼ οἴω καὶ μεμαῶτα

They call'd t' encounter Hector's charge, and turn'd the common men

θυμῷ δείσεσθαι Δαναῶν καταδῦναι ὅμιλον.

Back to the fleet. And these were they, that bravely furnish'd then

ὣς ἔφαθʼ, οἳ δʼ ἄρα τοῦ μάλα μὲν κλύον ἠδὲ πίθοντο·

The fierce forefight: Th' Ajaces both, the worthy Cretan king,

οἳ μὲν ἄρʼ ἀμφʼ Αἴαντα καὶ Ἰδομενῆα ἄνακτα

The Mars-like Meges, Merion, and Teucer. Up then bring

Τεῦκρον Μηριόνην τε Μέγην τʼ ἀτάλαντον Ἄρηϊ

The Trojan chiefs their men in heaps; before whom, amply-pac'd,

ὑσμίνην ἤρτυνον ἀριστῆας καλέσαντες

March'd Hector, and in front of him Apollo, who had cast

Ἕκτορι καὶ Τρώεσσιν ἐναντίον· αὐτὰρ ὀπίσσω

About his bright aspect a cloud, and did before him bear

ἣ πληθὺς ἐπὶ νῆας Ἀχαιῶν ἀπονέοντο.

Jove's huge and each-where-shaggy shield, which, to contain in fear

Τρῶες δὲ προὔτυψαν ἀολλέες, ἦρχε δʼ ἄρʼ Ἕκτωρ

Offending men, the God-smith gave to Jove; with this he led

μακρὰ βιβάς· πρόσθεν δὲ κίʼ αὐτοῦ Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων

The Trojan forces. The Greeks stood. A fervent clamour spread

εἱμένος ὤμοιιν νεφέλην, ἔχε δʼ αἰγίδα θοῦριν

The air on both sides as they join'd. Out flew the shafts and darts,

δεινὴν ἀμφιδάσειαν ἀριπρεπέʼ, ἣν ἄρα χαλκεὺς

Some falling short, but other some found butts in breasts and hearts.

Ἥφαιστος Διὶ δῶκε φορήμεναι ἐς φόβον ἀνδρῶν·

As long as Phœbus held but out his horrid shield, so long

τὴν ἄρʼ ὅ γʼ ἐν χείρεσσιν ἔχων ἡγήσατο λαῶν.

The darts flew raging either way, and death grew both ways strong;

Ἀργεῖοι δʼ ὑπέμειναν ἀολλέες, ὦρτο δʼ ἀϋτὴ

But when the Greeks had seen his face, and, who it was that shook

ὀξεῖʼ ἀμφοτέρωθεν, ἀπὸ νευρῆφι δʼ ὀϊστοὶ

The bristled targe, knew by his voice, then all their strengths forsook

θρῷσκον· πολλὰ δὲ δοῦρα θρασειάων ἀπὸ χειρῶν

Their nerves and minds. And then look how a goodly herd of neat,

ἄλλα μὲν ἐν χροῒ πήγνυτʼ ἀρηϊθόων αἰζηῶν,

Or wealthy flock of sheep, being close, and dreadless at their meet,

πολλὰ δὲ καὶ μεσσηγὺ πάρος χρόα λευκὸν ἐπαυρεῖν

In some black midnight, suddenly, and not a keeper near,

ἐν γαίῃ ἵσταντο λιλαιόμενα χροὸς ἆσαι.

A brace of horrid bears rush in, and then fly here and there

ὄφρα μὲν αἰγίδα χερσὶν ἔχʼ ἀτρέμα Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων,

The poor affrighted flocks or herds; so ev'ry way dispers'd

τόφρα μάλʼ ἀμφοτέρων βέλεʼ ἥπτετο, πῖπτε δὲ λαός.

The heartless Grecians, so the Sun their headstrong chace revers'd

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ κατʼ ἐνῶπα ἰδὼν Δαναῶν ταχυπώλων

To headlong flight, and that day rais'd, with all grace, Hector's head.

σεῖσʼ, ἐπὶ δʼ αὐτὸς ἄϋσε μάλα μέγα, τοῖσι δὲ θυμὸν

Arcesilaus then he slew, and Stichius; Stichius led

ἐν στήθεσσιν ἔθελξε, λάθοντο δὲ θούριδος ἀλκῆς.

Bœotia's brazen-coated men; the other was the friend

οἳ δʼ ὥς τʼ ἠὲ βοῶν ἀγέλην ἢ πῶϋ μέγʼ οἰῶν

Of mighty-soul'd Menestheüs. Æneas brought to end

θῆρε δύω κλονέωσι μελαίνης νυκτὸς ἀμολγῷ

Medon and Jasus; Medon was the brother, though but base,

ἐλθόντʼ ἐξαπίνης σημάντορος οὐ παρεόντος,

Of swift Oïliades, and dwelt, far from his breeding place,

ὣς ἐφόβηθεν Ἀχαιοὶ ἀνάλκιδες· ἐν γὰρ Ἀπόλλων

In Phylace; the other led th' Athenian bands, his sire

ἧκε φόβον, Τρωσὶν δὲ καὶ Ἕκτορι κῦδος ὄπαζεν.

Was Spelus, Bucolus's son. Mecistheus did expire

ἔνθα δʼ ἀνὴρ ἕλεν ἄνδρα κεδασθείσης ὑσμίνης.

Beneath Polydamas's hand. Polites, Echius slew,

Ἕκτωρ μὲν Στιχίον τε καὶ Ἀρκεσίλαον ἔπεφνε,

Just at the joining of the hosts. Agenor overthrew

τὸν μὲν Βοιωτῶν ἡγήτορα χαλκοχιτώνων,

Clonius. Bold Deïochus felt Alexander's lance;

τὸν δὲ Μενεσθῆος μεγαθύμου πιστὸν ἑταῖρον·

It strook his shoulder's upper part, and did his head advance

Αἰνείας δὲ Μέδοντα καὶ Ἴασον ἐξενάριξεν.

Quite through his breast, as from the fight he turn'd him for retreat.

ἤτοι ὃ μὲν νόθος υἱὸς Ὀϊλῆος θείοιο

While these stood spoiling of the slain, the Greeks found time to get

ἔσκε Μέδων Αἴαντος ἀδελφεός· αὐτὰρ ἔναιεν

Beyond the dike and th' undik'd pales; all scapes they gladly gain'd,

ἐν Φυλάκῃ γαίης ἄπο πατρίδος ἄνδρα κατακτὰς

Till all had pass'd the utmost wall; Necessity so reign'd.

γνωτὸν μητρυιῆς Ἐριώπιδος, ἣν ἔχʼ Ὀϊλεύς·

Then Hector cried out: “Take no spoil, but rush on to the fleet;

Ἴασος αὖτʼ ἀρχὸς μὲν Ἀθηναίων ἐτέτυκτο,

From whose assault, for spoil or flight, if any man I meet,

υἱὸς δὲ Σφήλοιο καλέσκετο Βουκολίδαο.

He meets his death; nor in the fire of holy funeral

Μηκιστῆ δʼ ἕλε Πουλυδάμας, Ἐχίον δὲ Πολίτης

His brother's or his sister's hands shall cast within our wall

πρώτῃ ἐν ὑσμίνῃ, Κλονίον δʼ ἕλε δῖος Ἀγήνωρ.

His loathéd body; but, without, the throats of dogs shall grave

Δηΐοχον δὲ Πάρις βάλε νείατον ὦμον ὄπισθε

His manless limbs.” This said, the scourge his forward horses drave

φεύγοντʼ ἐν προμάχοισι, διὰ πρὸ δὲ χαλκὸν ἔλασσεν.

Through ev'ry order; and, with him, all whipp'd their chariots on,

ὄφρʼ οἳ τοὺς ἐνάριζον ἀπʼ ἔντεα, τόφρα δʼ Ἀχαιοὶ

All threat'ningly, out-thund'ring shouts as earth were overthrown.

τάφρῳ καὶ σκολόπεσσιν ἐνιπλήξαντες ὀρυκτῇ

Before them march'd Apollo still, and, as he march'd, digg'd down,

ἔνθα καὶ ἔνθα φέβοντο, δύοντο δὲ τεῖχος ἀνάγκῃ.

Without all labour, with his feet the dike, till, with his own,

Ἕκτωρ δὲ Τρώεσσιν ἐκέκλετο μακρὸν ἀΰσας

He fill'd it to the top, and made way both for man and horse

νηυσὶν ἐπισσεύεσθαι, ἐᾶν δʼ ἔναρα βροτόεντα·

As broad and long as with a lance, cast out to try one's force,

ὃν δʼ ἂν ἐγὼν ἀπάνευθε νεῶν ἑτέρωθι νοήσω,

A man could measure. Into this they pour'd whole troops as fast

αὐτοῦ οἱ θάνατον μητίσομαι, οὐδέ νυ τόν γε

As num'rous; Phœbus still, before, for all their haste,

γνωτοί τε γνωταί τε πυρὸς λελάχωσι θανόντα,

Still shaking Jove's unvalu'd shield, and held it up to all.

ἀλλὰ κύνες ἐρύουσι πρὸ ἄστεος ἡμετέροιο.

And then, as he had chok'd their dike, he tumbled down their wall.

ὣς εἰπὼν μάστιγι κατωμαδὸν ἤλασεν ἵππους

And look how eas'ly any boy, upon the sea-ebb'd shore,

κεκλόμενος Τρώεσσι κατὰ στίχας· οἳ δὲ σὺν αὐτῷ

Makes with a little sand a toy, and cares for it no more,

πάντες ὁμοκλήσαντες ἔχον ἐρυσάρματας ἵππους

But as he rais'd it childishly, so in his wanton vein,

ἠχῇ θεσπεσίῃ· προπάροιθε δὲ Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων

Both with his hands and feet he pulls, and spurns it down again;

ῥεῖʼ ὄχθας καπέτοιο βαθείης ποσσὶν ἐρείπων

So slight, O Phœbus, thy hands made of that huge Grecian toil,

ἐς μέσσον κατέβαλλε, γεφύρωσεν δὲ κέλευθον

And their late stand, so well-resolv'd, as eas'ly mad'st recoil.

μακρὴν ἠδʼ εὐρεῖαν, ὅσον τʼ ἐπὶ δουρὸς ἐρωὴ

Thus stood they driv'n up at their fleet; where each heard other's thought,

γίγνεται, ὁππότʼ ἀνὴρ σθένεος πειρώμενος ᾗσι.

Exhorted, passing humbly pray'd, all all the Gods besought,

τῇ ῥʼ οἵ γε προχέοντο φαλαγγηδόν, πρὸ δʼ Ἀπόλλων

With hands held up to heav'n, for help. 'Mongst all the good old man,

αἰγίδʼ ἔχων ἐρίτιμον· ἔρειπε δὲ τεῖχος Ἀχαιῶν

Grave Nestor, for his counsels call'd the Argives' guardian,

ῥεῖα μάλʼ, ὡς ὅτε τις ψάμαθον πάϊς ἄγχι θαλάσσης,

Fell on his aged knees, and pray'd, and to the starry host

ὅς τʼ ἐπεὶ οὖν ποιήσῃ ἀθύρματα νηπιέῃσιν

Stretch'd out his hands for aid to theirs, of all thus moving most:

ἂψ αὖτις συνέχευε ποσὶν καὶ χερσὶν ἀθύρων.

“O father Jove, if ever man, of all our host, did burn

ὥς ῥα σὺ ἤϊε Φοῖβε πολὺν κάματον καὶ ὀϊζὺν

Fat thighs of oxen or of sheep, for grace of safe return,

σύγχεας Ἀργείων, αὐτοῖσι δὲ φύζαν ἐνῶρσας.

In fruitful Argos, and obtain'd the bowing of thy head

ὣς οἳ μὲν παρὰ νηυσὶν ἐρητύοντο μένοντες,

ἀλλήλοισί τε κεκλόμενοι καὶ πᾶσι θεοῖσι

χεῖρας ἀνίσχοντες μεγάλʼ εὐχετόωντο ἕκαστος·

Νέστωρ αὖτε μάλιστα Γερήνιος οὖρος Ἀχαιῶν

εὔχετο χεῖρʼ ὀρέγων εἰς οὐρανὸν ἀστερόεντα·

Ζεῦ πάτερ εἴ ποτέ τίς τοι ἐν Ἄργεΐ περ πολυπύρῳ

ἢ βοὸς ἢ οἰὸς κατὰ πίονα μηρία καίων

For promise of his humble pray'rs, O now remember him,

εὔχετο νοστῆσαι, σὺ δʼ ὑπέσχεο καὶ κατένευσας,

Thou merely heav'nly, and clear up the foul brows of this dim

τῶν μνῆσαι καὶ ἄμυνον Ὀλύμπιε νηλεὲς ἦμαρ,

And cruel day; do not destroy our zeal for Trojan pride.”

μηδʼ οὕτω Τρώεσσιν ἔα δάμνασθαι Ἀχαιούς.

He pray'd, and heav'n's great Counsellor with store of thunder tried

ὣς ἔφατʼ εὐχόμενος, μέγα δʼ ἔκτυπε μητίετα Ζεύς,

His former grace good, and so heard the old man's hearty pray'rs.

ἀράων ἀΐων Νηληϊάδαο γέροντος.

The Trojans took Jove's sign for them, and pour'd out their affairs

Τρῶες δʼ ὡς ἐπύθοντο Διὸς κτύπον αἰγιόχοιο,

In much more violence on the Greeks, and thought on nought but fight.

μᾶλλον ἐπʼ Ἀργείοισι θόρον, μνήσαντο δὲ χάρμης.

And as a huge wave of a sea, swoln to his rudest height,

οἳ δʼ ὥς τε μέγα κῦμα θαλάσσης εὐρυπόροιο

Breaks over both sides of a ship, being all-urg'd by the wind,

νηὸς ὑπὲρ τοίχων καταβήσεται, ὁππότʼ ἐπείγῃ

For that's it makes the wave so proud; in such a borne-up kind

ἲς ἀνέμου· ἣ γάρ τε μάλιστά γε κύματʼ ὀφέλλει·

The Trojans overgat the wall, and, getting in their horse,

ὣς Τρῶες μεγάλῃ ἰαχῇ κατὰ τεῖχος ἔβαινον,

Fought close at fleet, which now the Greeks ascended for their force.

ἵππους δʼ εἰσελάσαντες ἐπὶ πρύμνῃσι μάχοντο

Then from their chariots they with darts, the Greeks with bead-hooks fought,

ἔγχεσιν ἀμφιγύοις αὐτοσχεδόν, οἳ μὲν ἀφʼ ἵππων,

Kept still aboard for naval fights, their heads with iron wrought

οἳ δʼ ἀπὸ νηῶν ὕψι μελαινάων ἐπιβάντες

In hooks and pikes. Achilles' friend, still while he saw the wall,

μακροῖσι ξυστοῖσι, τά ῥά σφʼ ἐπὶ νηυσὶν ἔκειτο

That stood without their fleet, afford employment for them all,

ναύμαχα κολλήεντα, κατὰ στόμα εἱμένα χαλκῷ.

Was never absent from the tent of that man-loving Greek,

Πάτροκλος δʼ εἷος μὲν Ἀχαιοί τε Τρῶές τε

Late-hurt Eurypylus, but sate, and ev'ry way did seek,

τείχεος ἀμφεμάχοντο θοάων ἔκτοθι νηῶν,

To spend the sharp time of his wound, with all the ease he could

τόφρʼ ὅ γʼ ἐνὶ κλισίῃ ἀγαπήνορος Εὐρυπύλοιο

In med'cines, and in kind discourse. But when he might behold

ἧστό τε καὶ τὸν ἔτερπε λόγοις, ἐπὶ δʼ ἕλκεϊ λυγρῷ

The Trojans past the wall, the Greeks flight-driv'n, and all in cries,

φάρμακʼ ἀκέσματʼ ἔπασσε μελαινάων ὀδυνάων.

Then cried he out, cast down his hands, and beat with grief his thighs,

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ δὴ τεῖχος ἐπεσσυμένους ἐνόησε

Then, “O Eurypylus,” he cried, “now all thy need of me

Τρῶας, ἀτὰρ Δαναῶν γένετο ἰαχή τε φόβος τε,

Must bear my absence, now a work of more necessity

ᾤμωξέν τʼ ἄρʼ ἔπειτα καὶ ὣ πεπλήγετο μηρὼ

Calls hence, and I must haste to call Achilles to the field.

χερσὶ καταπρηνέσσʼ, ὀλοφυρόμενος δʼ ἔπος ηὔδα·

Who knows, but, God assisting me, my words may make him yield?

Εὐρύπυλʼ οὐκ ἔτι τοι δύναμαι χατέοντί περʼ ἔμπης

The motion of a friend is strong.” His feet thus took him thence.

ἐνθάδε παρμενέμεν· δὴ γὰρ μέγα νεῖκος ὄρωρεν·

The rest yet stood their enemies firm; but all their violence

ἀλλὰ σὲ μὲν θεράπων ποτιτερπέτω, αὐτὰρ ἔγωγε

(Though Troy fought there with fewer men) lack'd vigour to repell

σπεύσομαι εἰς Ἀχιλῆα, ἵνʼ ὀτρύνω πολεμίζειν.

Those fewer from their navy's charge, and so that charge as well

τίς δʼ οἶδʼ εἴ κέν οἱ σὺν δαίμονι θυμὸν ὀρίνω

Lack'd force to spoil their fleet or tents. And as a shipwright's line

παρειπών; ἀγαθὴ δὲ παραίφασίς ἐστιν ἑταίρου.

(Dispos'd by such a hand as learn'd from th' Artizan divine

τὸν μὲν ἄρʼ ὣς εἰπόντα πόδες φέρον· αὐτὰρ Ἀχαιοὶ

The perfect practice of his art) directs or guards so well

Τρῶας ἐπερχομένους μένον ἔμπεδον, οὐδʼ ἐδύναντο

The naval timber then in frame, that all the laid-on steel

παυροτέρους περ ἐόντας ἀπώσασθαι παρὰ νηῶν·

Can hew no further than may serve, to give the timber th' end

οὐδέ ποτε Τρῶες Δαναῶν ἐδύναντο φάλαγγας

Fore-purpos'd by the skilful wright; so both hosts did contend

ῥηξάμενοι κλισίῃσι μιγήμεναι ἠδὲ νέεσσιν.

With such a line or law applied, to what their steel would gain.

ἀλλʼ ὥς τε στάθμη δόρυ νήϊον ἐξιθύνει

At other ships fought other men; but Hector did maintain

τέκτονος ἐν παλάμῃσι δαήμονος, ὅς ῥά τε πάσης

His quarrel firm at Ajax' ship. And so did both employ

εὖ εἰδῇ σοφίης ὑποθημοσύνῃσιν Ἀθήνης,

About one vessel all their toil; nor could the one destroy

ὣς μὲν τῶν ἐπὶ ἶσα μάχη τέτατο πτόλεμός τε·

The ship with fire, nor force the man, nor that man yet get gone

ἄλλοι δʼ ἀμφʼ ἄλλῃσι μάχην ἐμάχοντο νέεσσιν,

The other from so near his ship, for God had brought him on.

Ἕκτωρ δʼ ἄντʼ Αἴαντος ἐείσατο κυδαλίμοιο.

But now did Ajax, with a dart, wound deadly in the breast

τὼ δὲ μιῆς περὶ νηὸς ἔχον πόνον, οὐδὲ δύναντο

Caletor, son of Clytius, as he with fire address'd

οὔθʼ ὃ τὸν ἐξελάσαι καὶ ἐνιπρῆσαι πυρὶ νῆα

To burn the vessel; as he fell, the brand fell from his hand.

οὔθʼ ὃ τὸν ἂψ ὤσασθαι, ἐπεί ῥʼ ἐπέλασσέ γε δαίμων.

When Hector saw his sister's son lie slaughter'd in the sand,

ἔνθʼ υἷα Κλυτίοιο Καλήτορα φαίδιμος Αἴας

He call'd to all his friends, and pray'd they would not in that strait

πῦρ ἐς νῆα φέροντα κατὰ στῆθος βάλε δουρί.

Forsake his nephew, but maintain about his corse the fight,

δούπησεν δὲ πεσών, δαλὸς δέ οἱ ἔκπεσε χειρός.

And save it from the spoil of Greece. Then sent he out a lance

Ἕκτωρ δʼ ὡς ἐνόησεν ἀνεψιὸν ὀφθαλμοῖσιν

At Ajax, in his nephew's wreak; which miss'd, but made the chance

ἐν κονίῃσι πεσόντα νεὸς προπάροιθε μελαίνης,

On Lycophron Mastorides, that was the household friend

Τρωσί τε καὶ Λυκίοισιν ἐκέκλετο μακρὸν ἀΰσας·

Of Ajax, born in Cythera; whom Ajax did defend,

Τρῶες καὶ Λύκιοι καὶ Δάρδανοι ἀγχιμαχηταὶ

Being fled to his protectión, for killing of a man

μὴ δή πω χάζεσθε μάχης ἐν στείνεϊ τῷδε,

Amongst the god-like Cytherans. The vengeful jav'lin ran

ἀλλʼ υἷα Κλυτίοιο σαώσατε, μή μιν Ἀχαιοὶ

Quite through his head, above his ear, as he was standing by

τεύχεα συλήσωσι νεῶν ἐν ἀγῶνι πεσόντα.

His fautour then astern his ship, from whence his soul did fly,

ὣς εἰπὼν Αἴαντος ἀκόντισε δουρὶ φαεινῷ.

And to the earth his body fell. The hair stood up an end

τοῦ μὲν ἅμαρθʼ, ὃ δʼ ἔπειτα Λυκόφρονα Μάστορος υἱὸν

On Ajax, who to Teucer call'd (his brother) saying: “Friend

Αἴαντος θεράποντα Κυθήριον, ὅς ῥα παρʼ αὐτῷ

Our lovéd consort, whom we brought from Cythera, and grac'd

ναῖʼ, ἐπεὶ ἄνδρα κατέκτα Κυθήροισι ζαθέοισι,

So like our father, Hector's hand hath made him breathe his last.

τόν ῥʼ ἔβαλεν κεφαλὴν ὑπὲρ οὔατος ὀξέϊ χαλκῷ

Where then are all thy death-borne shafts, and that unvalu'd bow

ἑσταότʼ ἄγχʼ Αἴαντος· ὃ δʼ ὕπτιος ἐν κονίῃσι

Apollo gave thee?” Teucer straight his brother's thoughts did know,

νηὸς ἄπο πρυμνῆς χαμάδις πέσε, λύντο δὲ γυῖα.

Stood near him, and dispatch'd a shaft, amongst the Trojan fight.

Αἴας δʼ ἐρρίγησε, κασίγνητον δὲ προσηύδα·

It strook Pisenor's goodly son, young Clitus, the delight

Τεῦκρε πέπον δὴ νῶϊν ἀπέκτατο πιστὸς ἑταῖρος

Of the renown'd Polydamas, the bridle in his hand,

Μαστορίδης, ὃν νῶϊ Κυθηρόθεν ἔνδον ἐόντα

As he was labouring his horse, to please the high command

ἶσα φίλοισι τοκεῦσιν ἐτίομεν ἐν μεγάροισι·

Of Hector and his Trojan friends, and bring him where the fight

τὸν δʼ Ἕκτωρ μεγάθυμος ἀπέκτανε. ποῦ νύ τοι ἰοὶ

Made greatest tumult; but his strife, for honour in their sight,

ὠκύμοροι καὶ τόξον ὅ τοι πόρε Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων;

Wrought not what sight or wishes help'd; for, turning back his look,

ὣς φάθʼ, ὃ δὲ ξυνέηκε, θέων δέ οἱ ἄγχι παρέστη,

τόξον ἔχων ἐν χειρὶ παλίντονον ἠδὲ φαρέτρην

ἰοδόκον· μάλα δʼ ὦκα βέλεα Τρώεσσιν ἐφίει.

καί ῥʼ ἔβαλε Κλεῖτον Πεισήνορος ἀγλαὸν υἱὸν

Πουλυδάμαντος ἑταῖρον ἀγαυοῦ Πανθοΐδαο

ἡνία χερσὶν ἔχοντα· ὃ μὲν πεπόνητο καθʼ ἵππους·

The hollow of his neck the shaft came singing on, and strook,

τῇ γὰρ ἔχʼ ᾗ ῥα πολὺ πλεῖσται κλονέοντο φάλαγγες

And down he fell; his horses back, and hurried through the field

Ἕκτορι καὶ Τρώεσσι χαριζόμενος· τάχα δʼ αὐτῷ

The empty chariot. Panthus' son made all haste, and withheld

ἦλθε κακόν, τό οἱ οὔ τις ἐρύκακεν ἱεμένων περ.

Their loose career, disposing them to Protiaon's son,

αὐχένι γάρ οἱ ὄπισθε πολύστονος ἔμπεσεν ἰός·

Astynous, with special charge, to keep them ever on,

ἤριπε δʼ ἐξ ὀχέων, ὑπερώησαν δέ οἱ ἵπποι

And in his sight. So he again, amongst the foremost went.

κείνʼ ὄχεα κροτέοντες. ἄναξ δʼ ἐνόησε τάχιστα

At Hector then another shaft, incenséd Teucer sent,

Πουλυδάμας, καὶ πρῶτος ἐναντίος ἤλυθεν ἵππων.

Which, had it hit him, sure had hurt, and, had it hurt him, slain,

τοὺς μὲν ὅ γʼ Ἀστυνόῳ Προτιάονος υἱέϊ δῶκε,

And, had it slain him, it had driv'n all those to Troy again.

πολλὰ δʼ ἐπότρυνε σχεδὸν ἴσχειν εἰσορόωντα

But Jove's mind was not sleeping now, it wak'd to Hector's fame,

ἵππους· αὐτὸς δʼ αὖτις ἰὼν προμάχοισιν ἐμίχθη.

And Teucer's infamy; himself (in Teucer's deadly aim)

Τεῦκρος δʼ ἄλλον ὀϊστὸν ἐφʼ Ἕκτορι χαλκοκορυστῇ

His well-wrought string dissevering, that serv'd his bravest bow;

αἴνυτο, καί κεν ἔπαυσε μάχης ἐπὶ νηυσὶν Ἀχαιῶν,

His shaft flew quite another way, his bow the earth did strow.

εἴ μιν ἀριστεύοντα βαλὼν ἐξείλετο θυμόν.

At all which Teucer stood amaz'd, and to his brother cried:

ἀλλʼ οὐ λῆθε Διὸς πυκινὸν νόον, ὅς ῥʼ ἐφύλασσεν

“O prodigy! Without all doubt, our angel doth deride

Ἕκτορʼ, ἀτὰρ Τεῦκρον Τελαμώνιον εὖχος ἀπηύρα,

The counsels of our fight; he brake a string my hands put on

ὅς οἱ ἐϋστρεφέα νευρὴν ἐν ἀμύμονι τόξῳ

This morning, and was newly made, and well might have set gone

ῥῆξʼ ἐπὶ τῷ ἐρύοντι· παρεπλάγχθη δέ οἱ ἄλλῃ

A hundred arrows; and, beside, he strook out of my hand

ἰὸς χαλκοβαρής, τόξον δέ οἱ ἔκπεσε χειρός.

The bow Apollo gave.” He said: “Then, good friend, do not stand

Τεῦκρος δʼ ἐρρίγησε, κασίγνητον δὲ προσηύδα·

More on thy archery, since God, preventer of all grace

ὢ πόποι ἦ δὴ πάγχυ μάχης ἐπὶ μήδεα κείρει

Desir'd by Grecians, slights it so. Take therefore in the place

δαίμων ἡμετέρης, ὅ τέ μοι βιὸν ἔκβαλε χειρός,

A good large lance, and on thy neck a target cast as bright,

νευρὴν δʼ ἐξέρρηξε νεόστροφον, ἣν ἐνέδησα

With which come fight thyself with some, and other some excite,

πρώϊον, ὄφρʼ ἀνέχοιτο θαμὰ θρῴσκοντας ὀϊστούς.

That without labour at the least, though we prove worser men,

τὸν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα μέγας Τελαμώνιος Αἴας·

Troy may not brag it took our ships. Come, mind our business, then.”

ὦ πέπον ἀλλὰ βιὸν μὲν ἔα καὶ ταρφέας ἰοὺς

This said, he hasted to his tent, left there his shafts and bow,

κεῖσθαι, ἐπεὶ συνέχευε θεὸς Δαναοῖσι μεγήρας·

And then his double double shield did on his shoulders throw;

αὐτὰρ χερσὶν ἑλὼν δολιχὸν δόρυ καὶ σάκος ὤμῳ

Upon his honour'd head he plac'd his helmet thickly-plum'd,

μάρναό τε Τρώεσσι καὶ ἄλλους ὄρνυθι λαούς.

And then his strong and well-pil'd lance in his fair hand assum'd,

μὴ μὰν ἀσπουδί γε δαμασσάμενοί περ ἕλοιεν

Return'd; and boldly took his place, by his great brother's side.

νῆας ἐϋσσέλμους, ἀλλὰ μνησώμεθα χάρμης.

When Hector saw his arrows broke, out to his friends he cried:

ὣς φάθʼ, ὃ δὲ τόξον μὲν ἐνὶ κλισίῃσιν ἔθηκεν,

“O friends, be yet more comforted; I saw the hands of Jove

αὐτὰρ ὅ γʼ ἀμφʼ ὤμοισι σάκος θέτο τετραθέλυμνον,

Break the great Grecian archer's shafts. 'Tis easy to approve

κρατὶ δʼ ἐπʼ ἰφθίμῳ κυνέην εὔτυκτον ἔθηκεν

That Jove's pow'r is direct with men; as well in those set high

ἵππουριν, δεινὸν δὲ λόφος καθύπερθεν ἔνευεν·

Upon the sudden, as in those depress'd as suddenly,

εἵλετο δʼ ἄλκιμον ἔγχος ἀκαχμένον ὀξέϊ χαλκῷ,

And those not put in state at all. As now he takes away

βῆ δʼ ἰέναι, μάλα δʼ ὦκα θέων Αἴαντι παρέστη.

Strength from the Greeks, and gives it us; then use it, and assay

Ἕκτωρ δʼ ὡς εἶδεν Τεύκρου βλαφθέντα βέλεμνα,

With join'd hands this approachéd fleet. If any bravely buy

Τρωσί τε καὶ Λυκίοισιν ἐκέκλετο μακρὸν ἀΰσας·

His fame or fate with wounds or death, in Jove's name let him die.

Τρῶες καὶ Λύκιοι καὶ Δάρδανοι ἀγχιμαχηταὶ

Who for his country suffers death, sustains no shameful thing,

ἀνέρες ἔστε φίλοι, μνήσασθε δὲ θούριδος ἀλκῆς

His wife in honour shall survive, his progeny shall spring

νῆας ἀνὰ γλαφυράς· δὴ γὰρ ἴδον ὀφθαλμοῖσιν

In endless summers, and their roofs with patrimony swell.

ἀνδρὸς ἀριστῆος Διόθεν βλαφθέντα βέλεμνα.

And all this, though, with all their freight, the Greek ships we repell.”

ῥεῖα δʼ ἀρίγνωτος Διὸς ἀνδράσι γίγνεται ἀλκή,

His friends thus cheer'd; on th' other part, strong Ajax stirr'd his friends:

ἠμὲν ὁτέοισιν κῦδος ὑπέρτερον ἐγγυαλίξῃ,

“O Greeks,” said he, “what shame is this, that no man more defends

ἠδʼ ὅτινας μινύθῃ τε καὶ οὐκ ἐθέλῃσιν ἀμύνειν,

His fame and safety, than to live, and thus be forc'd to shrink!

ὡς νῦν Ἀργείων μινύθει μένος, ἄμμι δʼ ἀρήγει.

Now either save your fleet, or die; unless ye vainly think

ἀλλὰ μάχεσθʼ ἐπὶ νηυσὶν ἀολλέες· ὃς δέ κεν ὑμέων

That you can live and they destroy'd. Perceives not ev'ry ear

βλήμενος ἠὲ τυπεὶς θάνατον καὶ πότμον ἐπίσπῃ

How Hector heartens up his men, and hath his fire-brands here

τεθνάτω· οὔ οἱ ἀεικὲς ἀμυνομένῳ περὶ πάτρης

Now ready to inflame our fleet? He doth not bid them dance,

τεθνάμεν· ἀλλʼ ἄλοχός τε σόη καὶ παῖδες ὀπίσσω,

That you may take your ease and see, but to the fight advance.

καὶ οἶκος καὶ κλῆρος ἀκήρατος, εἴ κεν Ἀχαιοὶ

No counsel can serve us but this: To mix both hands and hearts,

οἴχωνται σὺν νηυσὶ φίλην ἐς πατρίδα γαῖαν.

And bear up close. 'Tis better much, t' expose our utmost parts

ὣς εἰπὼν ὄτρυνε μένος καὶ θυμὸν ἑκάστου.

To one day's certain life or death, than languish in a war

Αἴας δʼ αὖθʼ ἑτέρωθεν ἐκέκλετο οἷς ἑτάροισιν·

So base as this, beat to our ships by our inferiors far.”

αἰδὼς Ἀργεῖοι· νῦν ἄρκιον ἢ ἀπολέσθαι

Thus rous'd he up their spirits and strengths. To work then both sides went,

ἠὲ σαωθῆναι καὶ ἀπώσασθαι κακὰ νηῶν.

When Hector the Phocensian duke to fields of darkness sent,

ἦ ἔλπεσθʼ ἢν νῆας ἕλῃ κορυθαίολος Ἕκτωρ

Fierce Schedius, Perimedes' son; which Ajax did requite

ἐμβαδὸν ἵξεσθαι ἣν πατρίδα γαῖαν ἕκαστος;

With slaughter of Laodamas, that led the foot to fight,

ἦ οὐκ ὀτρύνοντος ἀκούετε λαὸν ἅπαντα

And was Antenor's famous son. Polydamas did end

Ἕκτορος, ὃς δὴ νῆας ἐνιπρῆσαι μενεαίνει;

Otus, surnam'd Cyllenius, whom Phydas made his friend,

οὐ μὰν ἔς γε χορὸν κέλετʼ ἐλθέμεν, ἀλλὰ μάχεσθαι.

Being chief of the Epeians' bands. Whose fall when Meges view'd,

ἡμῖν δʼ οὔ τις τοῦδε νόος καὶ μῆτις ἀμείνων

He let fly at his feller's life; who, shrinking in, eschew'd

ἢ αὐτοσχεδίῃ μῖξαι χεῖράς τε μένος τε.

The well-aim'd lance; Apollo's will denied that Panthus' son

βέλτερον ἢ ἀπολέσθαι ἕνα χρόνον ἠὲ βιῶναι

Should fall amongst the foremost fights; the dart the mid-breast won

ἢ δηθὰ στρεύγεσθαι ἐν αἰνῇ δηϊοτῆτι

Of Crasmus; Meges won his arms. At Meges, Dolops then

ὧδʼ αὔτως παρὰ νηυσὶν ὑπʼ ἀνδράσι χειροτέροισιν.

Bestow'd his lance; he was the son of Lampus, best of men,

ὣς εἰπὼν ὄτρυνε μένος καὶ θυμὸν ἑκάστου.

And Lampus of Laomedon, well-skill'd in strength of mind,

ἔνθʼ Ἕκτωρ μὲν ἕλε Σχεδίον Περιμήδεος υἱὸν

ἀρχὸν Φωκήων, Αἴας δʼ ἕλε Λαοδάμαντα

ἡγεμόνα πρυλέων Ἀντήνορος ἀγλαὸν υἱόν·

Πουλυδάμας δʼ Ὦτον Κυλλήνιον ἐξενάριξε

Φυλεΐδεω ἕταρον, μεγαθύμων ἀρχὸν Ἐπειῶν.

τῷ δὲ Μέγης ἐπόρουσεν ἰδών· ὃ δʼ ὕπαιθα λιάσθη

Πουλυδάμας· καὶ τοῦ μὲν ἀπήμβροτεν· οὐ γὰρ Ἀπόλλων

εἴα Πάνθου υἱὸν ἐνὶ προμάχοισι δαμῆναι·

He strook Phylides' shield quite through, whose curets, better lin'd,

αὐτὰρ ὅ γε Κροίσμου στῆθος μέσον οὔτασε δουρί.

And hollow'd fitly, sav'd his life. Phyleus left him them,

δούπησεν δὲ πεσών· ὃ δʼ ἀπʼ ὤμων τεύχεʼ ἐσύλα.

Who from Epirus brought them home, on that part where the stream

τόφρα δὲ τῷ ἐπόρουσε Δόλοψ αἰχμῆς ἐῢ εἰδὼς

Of famous Seléés doth run; Euphetes did bestow,

Λαμπετίδης, ὃν Λάμπος ἐγείνατο φέρτατον υἱὸν

Being guest with him, those well-prov'd arms, to wear against the foe,

Λαομεδοντιάδης εὖ εἰδότα θούριδος ἀλκῆς,

And now they sav'd his son from death. At Dolops, Meges threw

ὃς τότε Φυλεΐδαο μέσον σάκος οὔτασε δουρὶ

A spear well-pil'd, that strook his casque full in the height; off flew

ἐγγύθεν ὁρμηθείς· πυκινὸς δέ οἱ ἤρκεσε θώρηξ,

His purple feather, newly made, and in the dust it fell.

τόν ῥʼ ἐφόρει γυάλοισιν ἀρηρότα· τόν ποτε Φυλεὺς

While these thus striv'd for victory, and either's hope serv'd well,

ἤγαγεν ἐξ Ἐφύρης, ποταμοῦ ἄπο Σελλήεντος.

Atrides came to Meges' aid, and, hidden with his side,

ξεῖνος γάρ οἱ ἔδωκεν ἄναξ ἀνδρῶν Εὐφήτης

Let loose a jav'lin at his foe, that through his back implied

ἐς πόλεμον φορέειν δηΐων ἀνδρῶν ἀλεωρήν·

His lusty head, ev'n past his breast; the ground receiv'd his weight.

ὅς οἱ καὶ τότε παιδὸς ἀπὸ χροὸς ἤρκεσʼ ὄλεθρον.

While these made in to spoil his arms, great Hector did excite

τοῦ δὲ Μέγης κόρυθος χαλκήρεος ἱπποδασείης

All his allies to quick revenge; and first he wrought upon

κύμβαχον ἀκρότατον νύξʼ ἔγχεϊ ὀξυόεντι,

Strong Manalippus, that was son to great Hycetaon,

ῥῆξε δʼ ἀφʼ ἵππειον λόφον αὐτοῦ· πᾶς δὲ χαμᾶζε

With some reproof. Before these wars, he in Percote fed