Iliad

Achilles’ baneful wrath resound, O Goddess, that impos’d

μῆνιν ἄειδε θεὰ Πηληϊάδεω Ἀχιλῆος

Infinite sorrows on the Greeks, and many brave souls los’d.

οὐλομένην, ἣ μυρίʼ Ἀχαιοῖς ἄλγεʼ ἔθηκε,

From breasts heroic; sent them far to that invisible cave

πολλὰς δʼ ἰφθίμους ψυχὰς Ἄϊδι προΐαψεν

That no light comforts; and their limbs to dogs and vultures gave;

ἡρώων, αὐτοὺς δὲ ἑλώρια τεῦχε κύνεσσιν

To all which Jove’s will gave effect; from whom first strife begun

οἰωνοῖσί τε πᾶσι, Διὸς δʼ ἐτελείετο βουλή,

Betwixt Atrides, king of men, and Thetis’ godlike son.

ἐξ οὗ δὴ τὰ πρῶτα διαστήτην ἐρίσαντε

What god gave Eris their command, and op’d that fighting vein?

Ἀτρεΐδης τε ἄναξ ἀνδρῶν καὶ δῖος Ἀχιλλεύς.

Jove’s and Latona’s son: who fir’d against the king of men,

τίς τʼ ἄρ σφωε θεῶν ἔριδι ξυνέηκε μάχεσθαι;

For contumély shown his priest, infectious sickness sent

Λητοῦς καὶ Διὸς υἱός· ὃ γὰρ βασιλῆϊ χολωθεὶς

To plague the army, and to death by troops the soldiers went.

νοῦσον ἀνὰ στρατὸν ὄρσε κακήν, ὀλέκοντο δὲ λαοί,

Occasion’d thus: Chryses, the priest, came to the fleet to buy,

οὕνεκα τὸν Χρύσην ἠτίμασεν ἀρητῆρα

For presents of unvalu’d price, his daughter’s liberty;

Ἀτρεΐδης· ὃ γὰρ ἦλθε θοὰς ἐπὶ νῆας Ἀχαιῶν

The golden sceptre and the crown of Phœbus in his hands

λυσόμενός τε θύγατρα φέρων τʼ ἀπερείσιʼ ἄποινα,

Proposing; and made suit to all, but most to the commands

στέμματʼ ἔχων ἐν χερσὶν ἑκηβόλου Ἀπόλλωνος

Of both th’ Atrides, who most rul’d. “Great Atreus’ sons,” said he,

χρυσέῳ ἀνὰ σκήπτρῳ, καὶ λίσσετο πάντας Ἀχαιούς,

“And all ye well-greav’d Greeks, the gods, whose habitations be

Ἀτρεΐδα δὲ μάλιστα δύω, κοσμήτορε λαῶν·

In heav’nly houses, grace your pow’rs with Priam’s razéd town,

Ἀτρεΐδαι τε καὶ ἄλλοι ἐϋκνήμιδες Ἀχαιοί,

And grant ye happy conduct home! To win which wish’d renown

ὑμῖν μὲν θεοὶ δοῖεν Ὀλύμπια δώματʼ ἔχοντες

Of Jove, by honouring his son, far-shooting Phœbus, deign

ἐκπέρσαι Πριάμοιο πόλιν, εὖ δʼ οἴκαδʼ ἱκέσθαι·

For these fit presents to dissolve the ransomable chain

παῖδα δʼ ἐμοὶ λύσαιτε φίλην, τὰ δʼ ἄποινα δέχεσθαι,

Of my lov’d daughter’s servitude.” The Greeks entirely gave

ἁζόμενοι Διὸς υἱὸν ἑκηβόλον Ἀπόλλωνα.

Glad acclamations, for sign that their desires would have

ἔνθʼ ἄλλοι μὲν πάντες ἐπευφήμησαν Ἀχαιοὶ

The grave priest reverenc’d, and his gifts of so much price embrac’d.

αἰδεῖσθαί θʼ ἱερῆα καὶ ἀγλαὰ δέχθαι ἄποινα·

The Gen’ral yet bore no such mind, but viciously disgrac’d

ἀλλʼ οὐκ Ἀτρεΐδῃ Ἀγαμέμνονι ἥνδανε θυμῷ,

With violent terms the priest, and said:—“Dotard! avoid our fleet,

ἀλλὰ κακῶς ἀφίει, κρατερὸν δʼ ἐπὶ μῦθον ἔτελλε·

Where ling’ring be not found by me; nor thy returning feet

μή σε γέρον κοίλῃσιν ἐγὼ παρὰ νηυσὶ κιχείω

Let ever visit us again; lest nor thy godhead’s crown,

ἢ νῦν δηθύνοντʼ ἢ ὕστερον αὖτις ἰόντα,

Nor sceptre, save thee! Her thou seek’st I still will hold mine own,

μή νύ τοι οὐ χραίσμῃ σκῆπτρον καὶ στέμμα θεοῖο·

Till age deflow’r her. In our court at Argos, far transferr’d

τὴν δʼ ἐγὼ οὐ λύσω· πρίν μιν καὶ γῆρας ἔπεισιν

From her lov’d country, she shall ply her web, and see prepar’d

ἡμετέρῳ ἐνὶ οἴκῳ ἐν Ἄργεϊ τηλόθι πάτρης

With all fit ornaments my bed. Incense me then no more,

ἱστὸν ἐποιχομένην καὶ ἐμὸν λέχος ἀντιόωσαν·

But, if thou wilt be safe, be gone.” This said, the sea-beat shore,

ἀλλʼ ἴθι μή μʼ ἐρέθιζε σαώτερος ὥς κε νέηαι.

Obeying his high will, the priest trod off with haste and fear;

ὣς ἔφατʼ, ἔδεισεν δʼ ὃ γέρων καὶ ἐπείθετο μύθῳ·

And, walking silent, till he left far off his enemies’ ear,

βῆ δʼ ἀκέων παρὰ θῖνα πολυφλοίσβοιο θαλάσσης·

Phœbus, fair hair’d Latona’s son, he stirr’d up with a vow,

πολλὰ δʼ ἔπειτʼ ἀπάνευθε κιὼν ἠρᾶθʼ ὁ γεραιὸς

To this stern purpose: “Hear, thou God that bear’st the silver bow,

Ἀπόλλωνι ἄνακτι, τὸν ἠΰκομος τέκε Λητώ·

That Chrysa guard’st, rul’st Tenedos with strong hand, and the round

κλῦθί μευ ἀργυρότοξʼ, ὃς Χρύσην ἀμφιβέβηκας

Of Cilia most divine dost walk! O Sminthëus! if crown’d

Κίλλαν τε ζαθέην Τενέδοιό τε ἶφι ἀνάσσεις,

With thankful off’rings thy rich fane I ever saw, or fir’d

Σμινθεῦ εἴ ποτέ τοι χαρίεντʼ ἐπὶ νηὸν ἔρεψα,

Fat thighs of oxen and of goats to thee, this grace desir’d

ἢ εἰ δή ποτέ τοι κατὰ πίονα μηρίʼ ἔκηα

Vouchsafe to me: pains for my tears let these rude Greeks repay,

ταύρων ἠδʼ αἰγῶν, τὸ δέ μοι κρήηνον ἐέλδωρ·

Forc’d with thy arrows.” Thus he pray’d, and Phœebus heard him pray,

τίσειαν Δαναοὶ ἐμὰ δάκρυα σοῖσι βέλεσσιν.

And, vex’d at heart, down from the tops of steep heav’n stoop’d; his

ὣς ἔφατʼ εὐχόμενος, τοῦ δʼ ἔκλυε Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων,

bow,

βῆ δὲ κατʼ Οὐλύμποιο καρήνων χωόμενος κῆρ,

And quiver cover’d round, his hands did on his shoulders throw;

τόξʼ ὤμοισιν ἔχων ἀμφηρεφέα τε φαρέτρην·

And of the angry Deity the arrows as he mov’d

ἔκλαγξαν δʼ ἄρʼ ὀϊστοὶ ἐπʼ ὤμων χωομένοιο,

Rattled about him. Like the night he rang’d the host, and rov’d

αὐτοῦ κινηθέντος· ὃ δʼ ἤϊε νυκτὶ ἐοικώς.

(Apart the fleet set) terribly; with his hard-loosing hand

ἕζετʼ ἔπειτʼ ἀπάνευθε νεῶν, μετὰ δʼ ἰὸν ἕηκε·

His silver bow twang’d; and his shafts did first the mules command,

δεινὴ δὲ κλαγγὴ γένετʼ ἀργυρέοιο βιοῖο·

And swift hounds; then the Greeks themselves his deadly arrows shot.

οὐρῆας μὲν πρῶτον ἐπῴχετο καὶ κύνας ἀργούς,

The fires of death went never out; nine days his shafts flew hot

αὐτὰρ ἔπειτʼ αὐτοῖσι βέλος ἐχεπευκὲς ἐφιεὶς

About the army; and the tenth, Achilles called a court

βάλλʼ· αἰεὶ δὲ πυραὶ νεκύων καίοντο θαμειαί.

Of all the Greeks; heav’n’s white-arm’d Queen (who, ev’rywhere cut

ἐννῆμαρ μὲν ἀνὰ στρατὸν ᾤχετο κῆλα θεοῖο,

short,

τῇ δεκάτῃ δʼ ἀγορὴν δὲ καλέσσατο λαὸν Ἀχιλλεύς·

Beholding her lov’d Greeks, by death) suggested it; and he

τῷ γὰρ ἐπὶ φρεσὶ θῆκε θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη·

(All met in one) arose, and said: “Atrides, now I see

κήδετο γὰρ Δαναῶν, ὅτι ῥα θνήσκοντας ὁρᾶτο.

We must be wandering again, flight must be still our stay,

οἳ δʼ ἐπεὶ οὖν ἤγερθεν ὁμηγερέες τε γένοντο,

If flight can save us now, at once sickness and battle lay

τοῖσι δʼ ἀνιστάμενος μετέφη πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

Such strong hand on us. Let us ask some prophet, priest, or prove

Ἀτρεΐδη νῦν ἄμμε παλιμπλαγχθέντας ὀΐω

Some dream-interpreter (for dreams are often sent from Jove)

ἂψ ἀπονοστήσειν, εἴ κεν θάνατόν γε φύγοιμεν,

Why Phœbus is so much incens’d; if unperformed vows

εἰ δὴ ὁμοῦ πόλεμός τε δαμᾷ καὶ λοιμὸς Ἀχαιούς·

He blames in us, or hecatombs; and if these knees he bows

ἀλλʼ ἄγε δή τινα μάντιν ἐρείομεν ἢ ἱερῆα

To death may yield his graves no more, but off’ring all supply

ἢ καὶ ὀνειροπόλον, καὶ γάρ τʼ ὄναρ ἐκ Διός ἐστιν,

Of savours burnt from lambs and goats, avert his fervent eye,

ὅς κʼ εἴποι ὅ τι τόσσον ἐχώσατο Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων,

And turn his temp’rate.” Thus, he sat; and then stood up to them

εἴτʼ ἄρʼ ὅ γʼ εὐχωλῆς ἐπιμέμφεται ἠδʼ ἑκατόμβης,

Calchas, surnam’d Thestorides, of augurs the supreme;

αἴ κέν πως ἀρνῶν κνίσης αἰγῶν τε τελείων

He knew things present, past, to come, and rul’d the equipage

βούλεται ἀντιάσας ἡμῖν ἀπὸ λοιγὸν ἀμῦναι.

Of th’ Argive fleet to Ilion, for his prophetic rage

ἤτοι ὅ γʼ ὣς εἰπὼν κατʼ ἄρʼ ἕζετο· τοῖσι δʼ ἀνέστη

Giv’n by Apollo; who, well-seen in th’ ill they felt, propos’d

Κάλχας Θεστορίδης οἰωνοπόλων ὄχʼ ἄριστος,

This to Achilles: “Jove’s belov’d, would thy charge see disclos’d

ὃς ᾔδη τά τʼ ἐόντα τά τʼ ἐσσόμενα πρό τʼ ἐόντα,

The secret of Apollo’s wrath? then cov’nant and take oath

καὶ νήεσσʼ ἡγήσατʼ Ἀχαιῶν Ἴλιον εἴσω

To my discov’ry, that, with words and pow’rful actions both,

ἣν διὰ μαντοσύνην, τήν οἱ πόρε Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων·

Thy strength will guard the truth in me; because I well conceive

ὅ σφιν ἐὺ φρονέων ἀγορήσατο καὶ μετέειπεν·

That he whose empire governs all, whom all the Grecians give

ὦ Ἀχιλεῦ κέλεαί με Διῒ φίλε μυθήσασθαι

Confirm’d obedience, will be mov’d; and then you know the state

μῆνιν Ἀπόλλωνος ἑκατηβελέταο ἄνακτος·

Of him that moves him. When a king hath once mark’d for his hate

τοὶ γὰρ ἐγὼν ἐρέω· σὺ δὲ σύνθεο καί μοι ὄμοσσον

A man inferior, though that day his wrath seems to digest

ἦ μέν μοι πρόφρων ἔπεσιν καὶ χερσὶν ἀρήξειν·

Th’ offence he takes, yet evermore he rakes up in his breast

ἦ γὰρ ὀΐομαι ἄνδρα χολωσέμεν, ὃς μέγα πάντων

Brands of quick anger, till revenge hath quench’d to his desire

Ἀργείων κρατέει καί οἱ πείθονται Ἀχαιοί·

The fire reservéd. Tell me, then, if, whatsoever ire

κρείσσων γὰρ βασιλεὺς ὅτε χώσεται ἀνδρὶ χέρηϊ·

Suggests in hurt of me to him, thy valour will prevent?”

εἴ περ γάρ τε χόλον γε καὶ αὐτῆμαρ καταπέψῃ,

Achilles answer’d: “All thou know’st speak, and be confident;

ἀλλά τε καὶ μετόπισθεν ἔχει κότον, ὄφρα τελέσσῃ,

For by Apollo, Jove’s belov’d, (to whom performing vows,

ἐν στήθεσσιν ἑοῖσι· σὺ δὲ φράσαι εἴ με σαώσεις.

O Calchas, for the state of Greece, thy spirit prophetic shows

τὸν δʼ ἀπαμειβόμενος προσέφη πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

Skills that direct us) not a man of all these Grecians here,

θαρσήσας μάλα εἰπὲ θεοπρόπιον ὅ τι οἶσθα·

I living, and enjoy’ng the light shot through this flow’ry sphere,

οὐ μὰ γὰρ Ἀπόλλωνα Διῒ φίλον, ᾧ τε σὺ Κάλχαν

Shall touch thee with offensive hands; though Agamemnon be

εὐχόμενος Δαναοῖσι θεοπροπίας ἀναφαίνεις,

The man in question, that doth boast the mightiest empery

οὔ τις ἐμεῦ ζῶντος καὶ ἐπὶ χθονὶ δερκομένοιο

Of all our army.” Then took heart the prophet unreprov’d,

σοὶ κοίλῃς παρὰ νηυσί βαρείας χεῖρας ἐποίσει

And said: “They are not unpaid vows, nor hecatombs, that mov’d

συμπάντων Δαναῶν, οὐδʼ ἢν Ἀγαμέμνονα εἴπῃς,

The God against us; his offence is for his priest impair’d

ὃς νῦν πολλὸν ἄριστος Ἀχαιῶν εὔχεται εἶναι.

By Agamemnon, that refus’d the present he preferr’d,

καὶ τότε δὴ θάρσησε καὶ ηὔδα μάντις ἀμύμων·

And kept his daughter. This is cause why heav’n’s Far-darter darts

οὔ τʼ ἄρ ὅ γʼ εὐχωλῆς ἐπιμέμφεται οὐδʼ ἑκατόμβης,

These plagues amongst us; and this still will empty in our hearts

ἀλλʼ ἕνεκʼ ἀρητῆρος ὃν ἠτίμησʼ Ἀγαμέμνων,

His deathful quiver, uncontain’d till to her lovéd sire

οὐδʼ ἀπέλυσε θύγατρα καὶ οὐκ ἀπεδέξατʼ ἄποινα,

The black-eyed damsel be resign’d; no rédemptory hire

τοὔνεκʼ ἄρʼ ἄλγεʼ ἔδωκεν ἑκηβόλος ἠδʼ ἔτι δώσει·

Took for her freedom,-not a gift, but all the ransom quit,

οὐδʼ ὅ γε πρὶν Δαναοῖσιν ἀεικέα λοιγὸν ἀπώσει

And she convey’d, with sacrifice, till her enfranchis’d feet

πρίν γʼ ἀπὸ πατρὶ φίλῳ δόμεναι ἑλικώπιδα κούρην

Tread Chrysa under; then the God, so pleas’d, perhaps we may

ἀπριάτην ἀνάποινον, ἄγειν θʼ ἱερὴν ἑκατόμβην

Move to remission.” Thus, he sate; and up, the great in sway,

ἐς Χρύσην· τότε κέν μιν ἱλασσάμενοι πεπίθοιμεν.

Heroic Agamemnon rose, eagérly bearing all;

ἤτοι ὅ γʼ ὣς εἰπὼν κατʼ ἄρʼ ἕζετο· τοῖσι δʼ ἀνέστη

His mind’s seat overcast with fumes; an anger general

ἥρως Ἀτρεΐδης εὐρὺ κρείων Ἀγαμέμνων

Fill’d all his faculties; his eyes sparkled like kindling fire,

ἀχνύμενος· μένεος δὲ μέγα φρένες ἀμφιμέλαιναι

Which sternly cast upon the priest, thus vented he his ire:

πίμπλαντʼ, ὄσσε δέ οἱ πυρὶ λαμπετόωντι ἐΐκτην·

“Prophet of ill! for never good came from thee towards me

Κάλχαντα πρώτιστα κάκʼ ὀσσόμενος προσέειπε·

Not to a word’s worth; evermore thou took’st delight to be

μάντι κακῶν οὐ πώ ποτέ μοι τὸ κρήγυον εἶπας·

Offensive in thy auguries, which thou continu’st still,

αἰεί τοι τὰ κάκʼ ἐστὶ φίλα φρεσὶ μαντεύεσθαι,

Now casting thy prophetic gall, and vouching all our ill,

ἐσθλὸν δʼ οὔτέ τί πω εἶπας ἔπος οὔτʼ ἐτέλεσσας·

Shot from Apollo, is impos’d since I refus’d the price

καὶ νῦν ἐν Δαναοῖσι θεοπροπέων ἀγορεύεις

Of fair Chryseis’ liberty; which would in no worth rise

ὡς δὴ τοῦδʼ ἕνεκά σφιν ἑκηβόλος ἄλγεα τεύχει,

To my rate of herself, which moves my vows to have her home,

οὕνεκʼ ἐγὼ κούρης Χρυσηΐδος ἀγλάʼ ἄποινα

Past Clytemnestra loving her, that grac’d my nuptial room

οὐκ ἔθελον δέξασθαι, ἐπεὶ πολὺ βούλομαι αὐτὴν

With her virginity and flow’r. Nor ask her merits less

οἴκοι ἔχειν· καὶ γάρ ῥα Κλυταιμνήστρης προβέβουλα

For person, disposition, wit, and skill in housewif’ries.

κουριδίης ἀλόχου, ἐπεὶ οὔ ἑθέν ἐστι χερείων,

And yet, for all this, she shall go, if more conducible

οὐ δέμας οὐδὲ φυήν, οὔτʼ ἂρ φρένας οὔτέ τι ἔργα.

That course be than her holding here. I rather wish the weal

ἀλλὰ καὶ ὧς ἐθέλω δόμεναι πάλιν εἰ τό γʼ ἄμεινον·

Of my lov’d army than the death. Provide yet instantly

βούλομʼ ἐγὼ λαὸν σῶν ἔμμεναι ἢ ἀπολέσθαι·

Supply for her, that I alone of all our royalty

αὐτὰρ ἐμοὶ γέρας αὐτίχʼ ἑτοιμάσατʼ ὄφρα μὴ οἶος

Lose not my winnings. ’Tis not fit. Ye see all I lose mine

Ἀργείων ἀγέραστος ἔω, ἐπεὶ οὐδὲ ἔοικε·

Forc’d by another, see as well some other may resign

λεύσσετε γὰρ τό γε πάντες ὅ μοι γέρας ἔρχεται ἄλλῃ.

His prise to me.” To this replied the swift-foot, god-like, son

τὸν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα ποδάρκης δῖος Ἀχιλλεύς·

Of Thetis, thus: “King of us all, in all ambition

Ἀτρεΐδη κύδιστε φιλοκτεανώτατε πάντων,

Most covetous of all that breathe, why should the great-soul’d Greeks

πῶς γάρ τοι δώσουσι γέρας μεγάθυμοι Ἀχαιοί;

Supply thy lost prise out of theirs? Nor what thy av’rice seeks

οὐδέ τί που ἴδμεν ξυνήϊα κείμενα πολλά·

Our common treasury can find; so little it doth guard

ἀλλὰ τὰ μὲν πολίων ἐξεπράθομεν, τὰ δέδασται,

Of what our ras’d towns yielded us; of all which most is shar’d,

λαοὺς δʼ οὐκ ἐπέοικε παλίλλογα ταῦτʼ ἐπαγείρειν.

And giv’n our soldiers; which again to take into our hands

ἀλλὰ σὺ μὲν νῦν τήνδε θεῷ πρόες· αὐτὰρ Ἀχαιοὶ

Were ignominious and base. Now then, since God commands,

τριπλῇ τετραπλῇ τʼ ἀποτείσομεν, αἴ κέ ποθι Ζεὺς

Part with thy most-lov’d prise to him; not any one of us

δῷσι πόλιν Τροίην εὐτείχεον ἐξαλαπάξαι.

Exacts it of thee, yet we all, all loss thou suffer’st thus,

τὸν δʼ ἀπαμειβόμενος προσέφη κρείων Ἀγαμέμνων·

Will treble, quadruple, in gain, when Jupiter bestows

μὴ δʼ οὕτως ἀγαθός περ ἐὼν θεοείκελʼ Ἀχιλλεῦ

The sack of well-wall’d Troy on us; which by his word he owes.”

κλέπτε νόῳ, ἐπεὶ οὐ παρελεύσεαι οὐδέ με πείσεις.

“Do not deceive yourself with wit,” he answer’d, “god-like man,

ἦ ἐθέλεις ὄφρʼ αὐτὸς ἔχῃς γέρας, αὐτὰρ ἔμʼ αὔτως

Though your good name may colour it; ’tis not your swift foot can

ἧσθαι δευόμενον, κέλεαι δέ με τήνδʼ ἀποδοῦναι;

Outrun me here; nor shall the gloss, set on it with the God,

ἀλλʼ εἰ μὲν δώσουσι γέρας μεγάθυμοι Ἀχαιοὶ

Persuade me to my wrong. Wouldst thou maintain in sure abode

ἄρσαντες κατὰ θυμὸν ὅπως ἀντάξιον ἔσται·

Thine own prise, and slight me of mine? Resolve this: if our friends,

εἰ δέ κε μὴ δώωσιν ἐγὼ δέ κεν αὐτὸς ἕλωμαι

As fits in equity my worth, will right me with amends,

ἢ τεὸν ἢ Αἴαντος ἰὼν γέρας, ἢ Ὀδυσῆος

So rest it; otherwise, myself will enter personally

ἄξω ἑλών· ὃ δέ κεν κεχολώσεται ὅν κεν ἵκωμαι.

On thy prise, that of Ithacus, or Ajax, for supply;

ἀλλʼ ἤτοι μὲν ταῦτα μεταφρασόμεσθα καὶ αὖτις,

Let him on whom I enter rage. But come, we’ll order these

νῦν δʼ ἄγε νῆα μέλαιναν ἐρύσσομεν εἰς ἅλα δῖαν,

Hereafter, and in other place. Now put to sacred seas

ἐν δʼ ἐρέτας ἐπιτηδὲς ἀγείρομεν, ἐς δʼ ἑκατόμβην

Our black sail; in it rowers put, in it fit sacrifice;

θείομεν, ἂν δʼ αὐτὴν Χρυσηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον

And to these I will make ascend my so much envied prise,

βήσομεν· εἷς δέ τις ἀρχὸς ἀνὴρ βουληφόρος ἔστω,

Bright-cheek’d Chryseis. For conduct of all which, we must choose

ἢ Αἴας ἢ Ἰδομενεὺς ἢ δῖος Ὀδυσσεὺς

A chief out of our counsellors. Thy service we must use,

ἠὲ σὺ Πηλεΐδη πάντων ἐκπαγλότατʼ ἀνδρῶν,

Idomenëus; Ajax, thine; or thine, wise Ithacus;

ὄφρʼ ἥμιν ἑκάεργον ἱλάσσεαι ἱερὰ ῥέξας.

Or thine, thou terriblest of men, thou son of Peleüs,

τὸν δʼ ἄρʼ ὑπόδρα ἰδὼν προσέφη πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

Which fittest were, that thou might’st see these holy acts perform’d

ὤ μοι ἀναιδείην ἐπιειμένε κερδαλεόφρον

For which thy cunning zeal so pleads; and he, whose bow thus storm’d

πῶς τίς τοι πρόφρων ἔπεσιν πείθηται Ἀχαιῶν

For our offences, may be calm’d.” Achilles, with a frown,

ἢ ὁδὸν ἐλθέμεναι ἢ ἀνδράσιν ἶφι μάχεσθαι;

Thus answer’d: “O thou impudent! of no good but thine own

οὐ γὰρ ἐγὼ Τρώων ἕνεκʼ ἤλυθον αἰχμητάων

Ever respectful, but of that with all craft covetous,

With what heart can a man attempt a service dangerous,

δεῦρο μαχησόμενος, ἐπεὶ οὔ τί μοι αἴτιοί εἰσιν·

Or at thy voice be spirited to fly upon a foe,

οὐ γὰρ πώποτʼ ἐμὰς βοῦς ἤλασαν οὐδὲ μὲν ἵππους,

Thy mind thus wretched? For myself, I was not injur’d so

οὐδέ ποτʼ ἐν Φθίῃ ἐριβώλακι βωτιανείρῃ

By any Trojan, that my pow’rs should bid them any blows;

καρπὸν ἐδηλήσαντʼ, ἐπεὶ ἦ μάλα πολλὰ μεταξὺ

In nothing bear they blame of me; Phthia, whose bosom flows

οὔρεά τε σκιόεντα θάλασσά τε ἠχήεσσα·

With corn and people, never felt impair of her increase

ἀλλὰ σοὶ ὦ μέγʼ ἀναιδὲς ἅμʼ ἑσπόμεθʼ ὄφρα σὺ χαίρῃς,

By their invasion; hills enow, and far-resounding seas,

τιμὴν ἀρνύμενοι Μενελάῳ σοί τε κυνῶπα

Pour out their shades and deeps between; but thee, thou frontless man,

πρὸς Τρώων· τῶν οὔ τι μετατρέπῃ οὐδʼ ἀλεγίζεις·

We follow, and thy triumphs make with bonfires of our bane;

καὶ δή μοι γέρας αὐτὸς ἀφαιρήσεσθαι ἀπειλεῖς,

Thine, and thy brother’s, vengeance sought, thou dog’s eyes, of this

ᾧ ἔπι πολλὰ μόγησα, δόσαν δέ μοι υἷες Ἀχαιῶν.

Troy

οὐ μὲν σοί ποτε ἶσον ἔχω γέρας ὁππότʼ Ἀχαιοὶ

By our expos’d lives; whose deserts thou neither dost employ

Τρώων ἐκπέρσωσʼ εὖ ναιόμενον πτολίεθρον·

With honour nor with care. And now, thou threat’st to force from me

ἀλλὰ τὸ μὲν πλεῖον πολυάϊκος πολέμοιο

The fruit of my sweat, which the Greeks gave all; and though it be,

χεῖρες ἐμαὶ διέπουσʼ· ἀτὰρ ἤν ποτε δασμὸς ἵκηται,

Compar’d with thy part, then snatch’d up, nothing; nor ever is

σοὶ τὸ γέρας πολὺ μεῖζον, ἐγὼ δʼ ὀλίγον τε φίλον τε

At any sack’d town; but of fight, the fetcher in of this,

ἔρχομʼ ἔχων ἐπὶ νῆας, ἐπεί κε κάμω πολεμίζων.

My hands have most share; in whose toils when I have emptied me

νῦν δʼ εἶμι Φθίην δʼ, ἐπεὶ ἦ πολὺ φέρτερόν ἐστιν

Of all my forces, my amends in liberality,

οἴκαδʼ ἴμεν σὺν νηυσὶ κορωνίσιν, οὐδέ σʼ ὀΐω

Though it be little, I accept, and turn pleas’d to my tent;

ἐνθάδʼ ἄτιμος ἐὼν ἄφενος καὶ πλοῦτον ἀφύξειν.

And yet that little thou esteem’st too great a continent

τὸν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα ἄναξ ἀνδρῶν Ἀγαμέμνων·

In thy incontinent avarice. For Phthia therefore now

φεῦγε μάλʼ εἴ τοι θυμὸς ἐπέσσυται, οὐδέ σʼ ἔγωγε

My course is; since ’tis better far, than here t’ endure that thou

λίσσομαι εἵνεκʼ ἐμεῖο μένειν· πάρʼ ἔμοιγε καὶ ἄλλοι

Should’st still be ravishing my right, draw my whole treasure dry,

οἵ κέ με τιμήσουσι, μάλιστα δὲ μητίετα Ζεύς.

And add dishonour.” He replied: “If thy heart serve thee, fly;

ἔχθιστος δέ μοί ἐσσι διοτρεφέων βασιλήων·

Stay not for my cause; others here will aid and honour me;

αἰεὶ γάρ τοι ἔρις τε φίλη πόλεμοί τε μάχαι τε·

If not, yet Jove I know is sure; that counsellor is he

εἰ μάλα καρτερός ἐσσι, θεός που σοὶ τό γʼ ἔδωκεν·

That I depend on. As for thee, of all our Jove-kept kings

οἴκαδʼ ἰὼν σὺν νηυσί τε σῇς καὶ σοῖς ἑτάροισι

Thou still art most my enemy; strifes, battles, bloody things,

Μυρμιδόνεσσιν ἄνασσε, σέθεν δʼ ἐγὼ οὐκ ἀλεγίζω,

Make thy blood-feasts still. But if strength, that these moods build

οὐδʼ ὄθομαι κοτέοντος· ἀπειλήσω δέ τοι ὧδε·

upon,

ὡς ἔμʼ ἀφαιρεῖται Χρυσηΐδα Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων,

Flow in thy nerves, God gave thee it; and so ’tis not thine own,

τὴν μὲν ἐγὼ σὺν νηΐ τʼ ἐμῇ καὶ ἐμοῖς ἑτάροισι

But in his hands still. What then lifts thy pride in this so high?

πέμψω, ἐγὼ δέ κʼ ἄγω Βρισηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον

Home with thy fleet, and Myrmidons; use there their empery;

αὐτὸς ἰὼν κλισίην δὲ τὸ σὸν γέρας ὄφρʼ ἐῢ εἰδῇς

Command not here. I weigh thee not, nor mean to magnify

ὅσσον φέρτερός εἰμι σέθεν, στυγέῃ δὲ καὶ ἄλλος

Thy rough-hewn rages, but, instead, I thus far threaten thee:

ἶσον ἐμοὶ φάσθαι καὶ ὁμοιωθήμεναι ἄντην.

Since Phœbus needs will force from me Chryseis, she shall go;

ὣς φάτο· Πηλεΐωνι δʼ ἄχος γένετʼ, ἐν δέ οἱ ἦτορ

My ships and friends shall waft her home; but I will imitate so

στήθεσσιν λασίοισι διάνδιχα μερμήριξεν,

His pleasure, that mine own shall take, in person, from thy tent

ἢ ὅ γε φάσγανον ὀξὺ ἐρυσσάμενος παρὰ μηροῦ

Bright-cheek’d Briseis; and so tell thy strength how eminent

τοὺς μὲν ἀναστήσειεν, ὃ δʼ Ἀτρεΐδην ἐναρίζοι,

My pow’r is, being compar’d with thine; all other making fear

ἦε χόλον παύσειεν ἐρητύσειέ τε θυμόν.

To vaunt equality with me, or in this proud kind bear

ἧος ὃ ταῦθʼ ὥρμαινε κατὰ φρένα καὶ κατὰ θυμόν,

Their beards against me.” Thetis’ son at this stood vex’d, his heart

ἕλκετο δʼ ἐκ κολεοῖο μέγα ξίφος, ἦλθε δʼ Ἀθήνη

Bristled his bosom, and two ways drew his discursive part;

οὐρανόθεν· πρὸ γὰρ ἧκε θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη

If, from his thigh his sharp sword drawn, he should make room about

ἄμφω ὁμῶς θυμῷ φιλέουσά τε κηδομένη τε·

Atrides’ person, slaught’ring him, or sit his anger out,

στῆ δʼ ὄπιθεν, ξανθῆς δὲ κόμης ἕλε Πηλεΐωνα

And curb his spirit. While these thoughts striv’d in his blood and

οἴῳ φαινομένη· τῶν δʼ ἄλλων οὔ τις ὁρᾶτο·

mind,

θάμβησεν δʼ Ἀχιλεύς, μετὰ δʼ ἐτράπετʼ, αὐτίκα δʼ ἔγνω

And he his sword drew, down from heav’n Athenia stoop’d, and shin’d

Παλλάδʼ Ἀθηναίην· δεινὼ δέ οἱ ὄσσε φάανθεν·

About his temples, being sent by th’ ivory-wristed Queen,

καί μιν φωνήσας ἔπεα πτερόεντα προσηύδα·

Saturnia, who out of her heart had ever loving been,

τίπτʼ αὖτʼ αἰγιόχοιο Διὸς τέκος εἰλήλουθας;

And careful for the good of both. She stood behind, and took

ἦ ἵνα ὕβριν ἴδῃ Ἀγαμέμνονος Ἀτρεΐδαο;

Achilles by the yellow curls, and only gave her look

ἀλλʼ ἔκ τοι ἐρέω, τὸ δὲ καὶ τελέεσθαι ὀΐω·

To him appearance; not a man of all the rest could see.

ᾗς ὑπεροπλίῃσι τάχʼ ἄν ποτε θυμὸν ὀλέσσῃ.

He turning back his eye, amaze strook every faculty;

τὸν δʼ αὖτε προσέειπε θεὰ γλαυκῶπις Ἀθήνη·

Yet straight he knew her by her eyes, so terrible they were,

ἦλθον ἐγὼ παύσουσα τὸ σὸν μένος, αἴ κε πίθηαι,

Sparkling with ardour, and thus spake: “Thou seed of Jupiter,

οὐρανόθεν· πρὸ δέ μʼ ἧκε θεὰ λευκώλενος Ἥρη

Why com’st thou? To behold his pride, that boasts our empery?

ἄμφω ὁμῶς θυμῷ φιλέουσά τε κηδομένη τε·

Then witness with it my revenge, and see that insolence die

ἀλλʼ ἄγε λῆγʼ ἔριδος, μηδὲ ξίφος ἕλκεο χειρί·

That lives to wrong me.” She replied: “I come from heav’n to see

ἀλλʼ ἤτοι ἔπεσιν μὲν ὀνείδισον ὡς ἔσεταί περ·

Thy anger settled, if thy soul will use her sov’reignty

ὧδε γὰρ ἐξερέω, τὸ δὲ καὶ τετελεσμένον ἔσται·

In fit reflection. I am sent from Juno, whose affects

καί ποτέ τοι τρὶς τόσσα παρέσσεται ἀγλαὰ δῶρα

Stand heartily inclin’d to both. Come, give us both respects,

ὕβριος εἵνεκα τῆσδε· σὺ δʼ ἴσχεο, πείθεο δʼ ἡμῖν.

And cease contention; draw no sword; use words, and such as may

τὴν δʼ ἀπαμειβόμενος προσέφη πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

Be bitter to his pride, but just; for, trust in what I say,

χρὴ μὲν σφωΐτερόν γε θεὰ ἔπος εἰρύσσασθαι

A time shall come, when, thrice the worth of that he forceth now,

καὶ μάλα περ θυμῷ κεχολωμένον· ὧς γὰρ ἄμεινον·

He shall propose for recompense of these wrongs; therefore throw

ὅς κε θεοῖς ἐπιπείθηται μάλα τʼ ἔκλυον αὐτοῦ.

Reins on thy passions, and serve us.” He answer’d “Though my heart

ἦ καὶ ἐπʼ ἀργυρέῃ κώπῃ σχέθε χεῖρα βαρεῖαν,

Burn in just anger, yet my soul must conquer th’ angry part,

ἂψ δʼ ἐς κουλεὸν ὦσε μέγα ξίφος, οὐδʼ ἀπίθησε

And yield you conquest. Who subdues his earthly part for heav’n,

μύθῳ Ἀθηναίης· ἣ δʼ Οὔλυμπον δὲ βεβήκει

Heav’n to his pray’rs subdues his wish.” This said, her charge was

δώματʼ ἐς αἰγιόχοιο Διὸς μετὰ δαίμονας ἄλλους.

given

Πηλεΐδης δʼ ἐξαῦτις ἀταρτηροῖς ἐπέεσσιν

Fit honour; in his silver hilt he held his able hand,

Ἀτρεΐδην προσέειπε, καὶ οὔ πω λῆγε χόλοιο·

And forc’d his broad sword up; and up to heav’n did re-ascend

οἰνοβαρές, κυνὸς ὄμματʼ ἔχων, κραδίην δʼ ἐλάφοιο,

Minerva, who, in Jove’s high roof that bears the rough shield, took

οὔτέ ποτʼ ἐς πόλεμον ἅμα λαῷ θωρηχθῆναι

Her place with other deities. She gone, again forsook

οὔτε λόχον δʼ ἰέναι σὺν ἀριστήεσσιν Ἀχαιῶν

Patience his passion, and no more his silence could confine

τέτληκας θυμῷ· τὸ δέ τοι κὴρ εἴδεται εἶναι.

ἦ πολὺ λώϊόν ἐστι κατὰ στρατὸν εὐρὺν Ἀχαιῶν

His wrath, that this broad language gave: “Thou ever steep’d in wine,

δῶρʼ ἀποαιρεῖσθαι ὅς τις σέθεν ἀντίον εἴπῃ·

Dog’s face, with heart but of a hart, that nor in th’ open eye

δημοβόρος βασιλεὺς ἐπεὶ οὐτιδανοῖσιν ἀνάσσεις·

Of fight dar’st thrust into a prease, nor with our noblest lie

ἦ γὰρ ἂν Ἀτρεΐδη νῦν ὕστατα λωβήσαιο.

In secret ambush! These works seem too full of death for thee;

ἀλλʼ ἔκ τοι ἐρέω καὶ ἐπὶ μέγαν ὅρκον ὀμοῦμαι·

’Tis safer far in the open host to dare an injury

ναὶ μὰ τόδε σκῆπτρον, τὸ μὲν οὔ ποτε φύλλα καὶ ὄζους

To any crosser of thy lust. Thou subject-eating king!

φύσει, ἐπεὶ δὴ πρῶτα τομὴν ἐν ὄρεσσι λέλοιπεν,

Base spirits thou govern’st, or this wrong had been the last foul thing

οὐδʼ ἀναθηλήσει· περὶ γάρ ῥά ἑ χαλκὸς ἔλεψε

Thou ever author’dst; yet I vow, and by a great oath swear,

φύλλά τε καὶ φλοιόν· νῦν αὖτέ μιν υἷες Ἀχαιῶν

Ev’n by this sceptre, that, as this never again shall bear

ἐν παλάμῃς φορέουσι δικασπόλοι, οἵ τε θέμιστας

Green leaves or branches, nor increase with any growth his size,

πρὸς Διὸς εἰρύαται· ὃ δέ τοι μέγας ἔσσεται ὅρκος·

Nor did since first it left the hills, and had his faculties

ἦ ποτʼ Ἀχιλλῆος ποθὴ ἵξεται υἷας Ἀχαιῶν

And ornaments bereft with iron; which now to other end

σύμπαντας· τότε δʼ οὔ τι δυνήσεαι ἀχνύμενός περ

Judges of Greece bear, and their laws, receiv’d from Jove, defend;

χραισμεῖν, εὖτʼ ἂν πολλοὶ ὑφʼ Ἕκτορος ἀνδροφόνοιο

(For which my oath to thee is great); so, whensoever need

θνήσκοντες πίπτωσι· σὺ δʼ ἔνδοθι θυμὸν ἀμύξεις

Shall burn with thirst of me thy host, no pray’rs shall ever breed

χωόμενος ὅ τʼ ἄριστον Ἀχαιῶν οὐδὲν ἔτισας.

Affection in me to their aid, though well-deserved woes

ὣς φάτο Πηλεΐδης, ποτὶ δὲ σκῆπτρον βάλε γαίῃ

Afflict thee for them, when to death man-slaught’ring Hector throws

χρυσείοις ἥλοισι πεπαρμένον, ἕζετο δʼ αὐτός·

Whole troops of them, and thou torment’st thy vex’d mind with conceit

Ἀτρεΐδης δʼ ἑτέρωθεν ἐμήνιε· τοῖσι δὲ Νέστωρ

Of thy rude rage now, and his wrong that most deserv’d the right

ἡδυεπὴς ἀνόρουσε λιγὺς Πυλίων ἀγορητής,

Of all thy army.” Thus, he threw his sceptre ’gainst the ground,

τοῦ καὶ ἀπὸ γλώσσης μέλιτος γλυκίων ῥέεν αὐδή·

With golden studs stuck, and took seat. Atrides’ breast was drown’d

τῷ δʼ ἤδη δύο μὲν γενεαὶ μερόπων ἀνθρώπων

In rising choler. Up to both sweet-spoken Nestor stood,

ἐφθίαθʼ, οἵ οἱ πρόσθεν ἅμα τράφεν ἠδʼ ἐγένοντο

The cunning Pylian orator, whose tongue pour’d forth a flood

ἐν Πύλῳ ἠγαθέῃ, μετὰ δὲ τριτάτοισιν ἄνασσεν·

Of more-than-honey-sweet discourse; two ages were increas’d

ὅ σφιν ἐὺ φρονέων ἀγορήσατο καὶ μετέειπεν·

Of divers-languag’d men, all born in his time and deceas’d,

ὦ πόποι ἦ μέγα πένθος Ἀχαιΐδα γαῖαν ἱκάνει·

In sacred Pylos, where he reign’d amongst the third-ag’d men

ἦ κεν γηθήσαι Πρίαμος Πριάμοιό τε παῖδες

He, well-seen in the world, advis’d, and thus express’d it then:

ἄλλοι τε Τρῶες μέγα κεν κεχαροίατο θυμῷ

“O Gods! Our Greek earth will be drown’d in just tears; rapeful Troy,

εἰ σφῶϊν τάδε πάντα πυθοίατο μαρναμένοιϊν,

Her king, and all his sons, will make as just a mock, and joy,

οἳ περὶ μὲν βουλὴν Δαναῶν, περὶ δʼ ἐστὲ μάχεσθαι.

Of these disjunctions; if of you, that all our host excel

ἀλλὰ πίθεσθʼ· ἄμφω δὲ νεωτέρω ἐστὸν ἐμεῖο·

In counsel and in skill of fight, they hear this. Come, repel

ἤδη γάρ ποτʼ ἐγὼ καὶ ἀρείοσιν ἠέ περ ὑμῖν

These young men’s passions. Y’ are not both, put both your years in

ἀνδράσιν ὡμίλησα, καὶ οὔ ποτέ μʼ οἵ γʼ ἀθέριζον.

one,

οὐ γάρ πω τοίους ἴδον ἀνέρας οὐδὲ ἴδωμαι,

So old as I. I liv’d long since, and was companion

οἷον Πειρίθοόν τε Δρύαντά τε ποιμένα λαῶν

With men superior to you both, who yet would ever hear

Καινέα τʼ Ἐξάδιόν τε καὶ ἀντίθεον Πολύφημον

My counsels with respect. My eyes yet never witness were,

Θησέα τʼ Αἰγεΐδην, ἐπιείκελον ἀθανάτοισιν·

Nor ever will be, of such men as then delighted them;

κάρτιστοι δὴ κεῖνοι ἐπιχθονίων τράφεν ἀνδρῶν·

Pirithous, Exadius, and god-like Polypheme,

κάρτιστοι μὲν ἔσαν καὶ καρτίστοις ἐμάχοντο

Cæneus, and Dryas prince of men, Ægean Theseüs,

φηρσὶν ὀρεσκῴοισι καὶ ἐκπάγλως ἀπόλεσσαν.

A man like heav’n’s immortals form’d; all, all most vigorous,

καὶ μὲν τοῖσιν ἐγὼ μεθομίλεον ἐκ Πύλου ἐλθὼν

Of all men that ev’n those days: bred; most vig’rous men, and fought

τηλόθεν ἐξ ἀπίης γαίης· καλέσαντο γὰρ αὐτοί·

With beasts most vig’rous, mountain beasts, (for men in strength were

καὶ μαχόμην κατʼ ἔμʼ αὐτὸν ἐγώ· κείνοισι δʼ ἂν οὔ τις

nought

τῶν οἳ νῦν βροτοί εἰσιν ἐπιχθόνιοι μαχέοιτο·

Match’d with their forces) fought with them, and bravely fought them

καὶ μέν μευ βουλέων ξύνιεν πείθοντό τε μύθῳ·

down

ἀλλὰ πίθεσθε καὶ ὔμμες, ἐπεὶ πείθεσθαι ἄμεινον·

Yet ev’n with these men I convers’d, being call’d to the renown

μήτε σὺ τόνδʼ ἀγαθός περ ἐὼν ἀποαίρεο κούρην,

Of their societies, by their suits, from Pylos far, to fight

ἀλλʼ ἔα ὥς οἱ πρῶτα δόσαν γέρας υἷες Ἀχαιῶν·

In th’ Apian kingdom; and I fought, to a degree of might

μήτε σὺ Πηλείδη ἔθελʼ ἐριζέμεναι βασιλῆϊ

That help’d ev’n their mights, against such as no man now would dare

ἀντιβίην, ἐπεὶ οὔ ποθʼ ὁμοίης ἔμμορε τιμῆς

To meet in conflict; yet ev’n these my counsels still would hear,

σκηπτοῦχος βασιλεύς, ᾧ τε Ζεὺς κῦδος ἔδωκεν.

And with obedience crown my words. Give you such palm to them;

εἰ δὲ σὺ καρτερός ἐσσι θεὰ δέ σε γείνατο μήτηρ,

’Tis better than to wreath your wraths. Atrides, give not stream

ἀλλʼ ὅ γε φέρτερός ἐστιν ἐπεὶ πλεόνεσσιν ἀνάσσει.

To all thy pow’r, nor force his prise, but yield her still his own,

Ἀτρεΐδη σὺ δὲ παῦε τεὸν μένος· αὐτὰρ ἔγωγε

As all men else do. Nor do thou encounter with thy crown,

λίσσομʼ Ἀχιλλῆϊ μεθέμεν χόλον, ὃς μέγα πᾶσιν

Great son of Peleus, since no king that ever Jove allow’d

ἕρκος Ἀχαιοῖσιν πέλεται πολέμοιο κακοῖο.

Grace of a sceptre equals him. Suppose thy nerves endow’d

τὸν δʼ ἀπαμειβόμενος προσέφη κρείων Ἀγαμέμνων·

With strength superior, and thy birth a very goddess gave,

ναὶ δὴ ταῦτά γε πάντα γέρον κατὰ μοῖραν ἔειπες·

Yet he of force is mightier, since what his own nerves have

ἀλλʼ ὅδʼ ἀνὴρ ἐθέλει περὶ πάντων ἔμμεναι ἄλλων,

Is amplified with just command of many other. King of men,

πάντων μὲν κρατέειν ἐθέλει, πάντεσσι δʼ ἀνάσσειν,

Command thou then thyself; and I with my pray’rs will obtain

πᾶσι δὲ σημαίνειν, ἅ τινʼ οὐ πείσεσθαι ὀΐω·

Grace of Achilles to subdue his fury; whose parts are

εἰ δέ μιν αἰχμητὴν ἔθεσαν θεοὶ αἰὲν ἐόντες

Worth our entreaty, being chief check to all our ill in war.”

τοὔνεκά οἱ προθέουσιν ὀνείδεα μυθήσασθαι;

“All this, good father,” said the king, “is comely and good right;

τὸν δʼ ἄρʼ ὑποβλήδην ἠμείβετο δῖος Ἀχιλλεύς·

But this man breaks all such bounds; he affects, past all men, height;

ἦ γάρ κεν δειλός τε καὶ οὐτιδανὸς καλεοίμην

All would in his pow’r hold, all make his subjects, give to all

εἰ δὴ σοὶ πᾶν ἔργον ὑπείξομαι ὅττί κεν εἴπῃς·

His hot will for their temp’rate law; all which he never shall

ἄλλοισιν δὴ ταῦτʼ ἐπιτέλλεο, μὴ γὰρ ἔμοιγε

Persuade at my hands. If the gods have giv’n him the great style

σήμαινʼ· οὐ γὰρ ἔγωγʼ ἔτι σοὶ πείσεσθαι ὀΐω.

Of ablest soldier, made they that his licence to revile

ἄλλο δέ τοι ἐρέω, σὺ δʼ ἐνὶ φρεσὶ βάλλεο σῇσι·

Men with vile language?” Thetis’ son prevented him, and said:

χερσὶ μὲν οὔ τοι ἔγωγε μαχήσομαι εἵνεκα κούρης

“Fearful and vile I might be thought, if the exactions laid

οὔτε σοὶ οὔτέ τῳ ἄλλῳ, ἐπεί μʼ ἀφέλεσθέ γε δόντες·

By all means on me I should bear. Others command to this,

τῶν δʼ ἄλλων ἅ μοί ἐστι θοῇ παρὰ νηῒ μελαίνῃ

Thou shalt not me; or if thou dost, far my free spirit is

τῶν οὐκ ἄν τι φέροις ἀνελὼν ἀέκοντος ἐμεῖο·

From serving thy command. Beside, this I affirm (afford

εἰ δʼ ἄγε μὴν πείρησαι ἵνα γνώωσι καὶ οἵδε·

Impression of it in thy soul): will not use my sword

αἶψά τοι αἷμα κελαινὸν ἐρωήσει περὶ δουρί.

On thee or any for a wench, unjustly though thou tak’st

ὣς τώ γʼ ἀντιβίοισι μαχεσσαμένω ἐπέεσσιν

The thing thou gav’st; but all things else, that in my ship thou mak’st

ἀνστήτην, λῦσαν δʼ ἀγορὴν παρὰ νηυσὶν Ἀχαιῶν·

Greedy survey of, do not touch without my leave; or do,—

Add that act’s wrong to this, that these may see that outrage too,—

Πηλεΐδης μὲν ἐπὶ κλισίας καὶ νῆας ἐΐσας

And then comes my part; then be sure, thy blood upon my lance

ἤϊε σύν τε Μενοιτιάδῃ καὶ οἷς ἑτάροισιν·

Shall flow in vengeance.” These high terms these two at variance

Ἀτρεΐδης δʼ ἄρα νῆα θοὴν ἅλα δὲ προέρυσσεν,

Us’d to each other; left their seats; and after them arose

ἐν δʼ ἐρέτας ἔκρινεν ἐείκοσιν, ἐς δʼ ἑκατόμβην

The whole court. To his tents and ships, with friends and soldiers,

βῆσε θεῷ, ἀνὰ δὲ Χρυσηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον

goes

εἷσεν ἄγων· ἐν δʼ ἀρχὸς ἔβη πολύμητις Ὀδυσσεύς.

Angry Achilles. Atreus’ son the swift ship launch’d, and put

οἳ μὲν ἔπειτʼ ἀναβάντες ἐπέπλεον ὑγρὰ κέλευθα,

Within it twenty chosen row’rs, within it likewise shut

λαοὺς δʼ Ἀτρεΐδης ἀπολυμαίνεσθαι ἄνωγεν·

The hecatomb t’ appease the God; then caus’d to come aboard

οἳ δʼ ἀπελυμαίνοντο καὶ εἰς ἅλα λύματα βάλλον,

Fair-cheek’d Chryseis; for the chief, he in whom Pallas pour’d

ἕρδον δʼ Ἀπόλλωνι τεληέσσας ἑκατόμβας

Her store of counsels, Ithacus, aboard went last; and then

ταύρων ἠδʼ αἰγῶν παρὰ θῖνʼ ἁλὸς ἀτρυγέτοιο·

The moist ways of the sea they sail’d. And now the king of men

κνίση δʼ οὐρανὸν ἷκεν ἑλισσομένη περὶ καπνῷ.

Bade all the host to sacrifice. They sacrific’d, and cast

ὣς οἳ μὲν τὰ πένοντο κατὰ στρατόν· οὐδʼ Ἀγαμέμνων

The offal of all to the deeps; the angry God they grac’d

λῆγʼ ἔριδος τὴν πρῶτον ἐπηπείλησʼ Ἀχιλῆϊ,

With perfect hecatombs; some bulls, some goats, along the shore

ἀλλʼ ὅ γε Ταλθύβιόν τε καὶ Εὐρυβάτην προσέειπε,

Of the unfruitful sea, inflam’d. To heav’n the thick fumes bore

τώ οἱ ἔσαν κήρυκε καὶ ὀτρηρὼ θεράποντε·

Enwrapped savours. Thus, though all the politic king made shew

ἔρχεσθον κλισίην Πηληϊάδεω Ἀχιλῆος·

Respects to heav’n, yet he himself all that time did pursue

χειρὸς ἑλόντʼ ἀγέμεν Βρισηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον·

His own affections; the late jar, in which he thunder’d threats

εἰ δέ κε μὴ δώῃσιν ἐγὼ δέ κεν αὐτὸς ἕλωμαι

Against Achilles, still he fed, and his affections’ heats

ἐλθὼν σὺν πλεόνεσσι· τό οἱ καὶ ῥίγιον ἔσται.

Thus vented to Talthybius, and grave Eurybates,

ὣς εἰπὼν προΐει, κρατερὸν δʼ ἐπὶ μῦθον ἔτελλε·

Heralds, and ministers of trust, to all his messages.

τὼ δʼ ἀέκοντε βάτην παρὰ θῖνʼ ἁλὸς ἀτρυγέτοιο,

“Haste to Achilles’ tent; where take Briseis’ hand, and bring

Μυρμιδόνων δʼ ἐπί τε κλισίας καὶ νῆας ἱκέσθην,

Her beauties to us. If he fail to yield her, say your king

τὸν δʼ εὗρον παρά τε κλισίῃ καὶ νηῒ μελαίνῃ

Will come himself, with multitudes that shall the horribler

ἥμενον· οὐδʼ ἄρα τώ γε ἰδὼν γήθησεν Ἀχιλλεύς.

Make both his presence, and your charge, that so he dares defer.”

τὼ μὲν ταρβήσαντε καὶ αἰδομένω βασιλῆα

This said, he sent them with a charge of hard condition.

στήτην, οὐδέ τί μιν προσεφώνεον οὐδʼ ἐρέοντο·

They went unwillingly, and trod the fruitless sea’s shore; soon

αὐτὰρ ὃ ἔγνω ᾗσιν ἐνὶ φρεσὶ φώνησέν τε·

They reach’d the navy and the tents, in which the quarter lay

χαίρετε κήρυκες Διὸς ἄγγελοι ἠδὲ καὶ ἀνδρῶν,

Of all the Myrmidons, and found the chief Chief in their sway

ἆσσον ἴτʼ· οὔ τί μοι ὔμμες ἐπαίτιοι ἀλλʼ Ἀγαμέμνων,

Set at his black bark in his tent. Nor was Achilles glad

ὃ σφῶϊ προΐει Βρισηΐδος εἵνεκα κούρης.

To see their presence; nor themselves in any glory had

ἀλλʼ ἄγε διογενὲς Πατρόκλεες ἔξαγε κούρην

Their message, but with rev’rence stood, and fear’d th’ offended king,

καί σφωϊν δὸς ἄγειν· τὼ δʼ αὐτὼ μάρτυροι ἔστων

Ask’d not the dame, nor spake a word. He yet, well knowing the thing

πρός τε θεῶν μακάρων πρός τε θνητῶν ἀνθρώπων

That caus’d their coming, grac’d them thus: “Heralds, ye men that bear

καὶ πρὸς τοῦ βασιλῆος ἀπηνέος εἴ ποτε δʼ αὖτε

The messages of men and gods, y’ are welcome, come ye near.

χρειὼ ἐμεῖο γένηται ἀεικέα λοιγὸν ἀμῦναι

I nothing blame you, but your king; ’tis he I know doth send

τοῖς ἄλλοις· ἦ γὰρ ὅ γʼ ὀλοιῇσι φρεσὶ θύει,

You for Briseis; she is his. Patroclus, honour’d friend,

οὐδέ τι οἶδε νοῆσαι ἅμα πρόσσω καὶ ὀπίσσω,

Bring forth the damsel, and these men let lead her to their lord.

ὅππως οἱ παρὰ νηυσὶ σόοι μαχέοιντο Ἀχαιοί.

But, heralds, be you witnesses, before the most ador’d,

ὣς φάτο, Πάτροκλος δὲ φίλῳ ἐπεπείθεθʼ ἑταίρῳ,

Before us mortals, and before your most ungentle king,

ἐκ δʼ ἄγαγε κλισίης Βρισηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον,

Of what I suffer, that, if war ever hereafter bring

δῶκε δʼ ἄγειν· τὼ δʼ αὖτις ἴτην παρὰ νῆας Ἀχαιῶν·

My aid in question, to avert any severest bane

ἣ δʼ ἀέκουσʼ ἅμα τοῖσι γυνὴ κίεν· αὐτὰρ Ἀχιλλεὺς

It brings on others, I am ’scus’d to keep mine aid in wane,

δακρύσας ἑτάρων ἄφαρ ἕζετο νόσφι λιασθείς,

Since they mine honour. But your king, in tempting mischief, raves,

θῖνʼ ἔφʼ ἁλὸς πολιῆς, ὁρόων ἐπʼ ἀπείρονα πόντον·

Nor sees at once by present things the future; how like waves

πολλὰ δὲ μητρὶ φίλῃ ἠρήσατο χεῖρας ὀρεγνύς·

Ills follow ills; injustices being never so secure

μῆτερ ἐπεί μʼ ἔτεκές γε μινυνθάδιόν περ ἐόντα,

In present times, but after-plagues ev’n then are seen as sure;

τιμήν πέρ μοι ὄφελλεν Ὀλύμπιος ἐγγυαλίξαι

Which yet he sees not, and so soothes his present lust, which, check’d,

Ζεὺς ὑψιβρεμέτης· νῦν δʼ οὐδέ με τυτθὸν ἔτισεν·

Would check plagues future; and he might, in succouring right, protect

ἦ γάρ μʼ Ἀτρεΐδης εὐρὺ κρείων Ἀγαμέμνων

Such as fight for his right at fleet. They still in safety fight,

ἠτίμησεν· ἑλὼν γὰρ ἔχει γέρας αὐτὸς ἀπούρας.

That fight still justly.” This speech us’d, Patroclus did the rite

ὣς φάτο δάκρυ χέων, τοῦ δʼ ἔκλυε πότνια μήτηρ

His friend commanded, and brought forth Briseis from her tent,

ἡμένη ἐν βένθεσσιν ἁλὸς παρὰ πατρὶ γέροντι·

Gave her the heralds, and away to th’ Achive ships they went.

καρπαλίμως δʼ ἀνέδυ πολιῆς ἁλὸς ἠΰτʼ ὀμίχλη,

She sad, and scarce for grief could go. Her love all friends forsook,

καί ῥα πάροιθʼ αὐτοῖο καθέζετο δάκρυ χέοντος,

And wept for anger. To the shore of th’ old sea he betook

χειρί τέ μιν κατέρεξεν ἔπος τʼ ἔφατʼ ἔκ τʼ ὀνόμαζε·

Himself alone, and casting forth upon the purple sea

τέκνον τί κλαίεις; τί δέ σε φρένας ἵκετο πένθος;

His wet eyes, and his hands to heav’n advancing, this sad plea

ἐξαύδα, μὴ κεῦθε νόῳ, ἵνα εἴδομεν ἄμφω.

Made to his mother; “Mother! Since you brought me forth to breathe

τὴν δὲ βαρὺ στενάχων προσέφη πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

So short a life, Olympius had good right to bequeath

οἶσθα· τί ἤ τοι ταῦτα ἰδυίῃ πάντʼ ἀγορεύω;

My short life honour; yet that right he doth in no degree,

ᾠχόμεθʼ ἐς Θήβην ἱερὴν πόλιν Ἠετίωνος,

But lets Atrides do me shame, and force that prise from me

τὴν δὲ διεπράθομέν τε καὶ ἤγομεν ἐνθάδε πάντα·

That all the Greeks gave.” This with tears he utter’d, and she heard,

καὶ τὰ μὲν εὖ δάσσαντο μετὰ σφίσιν υἷες Ἀχαιῶν,

Set with her old sire in his deeps, and instantly appear’d

ἐκ δʼ ἕλον Ἀτρεΐδῃ Χρυσηΐδα καλλιπάρῃον.

Up from the grey sea like a cloud, sate by his side, and said:

Χρύσης δʼ αὖθʼ ἱερεὺς ἑκατηβόλου Ἀπόλλωνος

“Why weeps my son? What grieves thee?

ἦλθε θοὰς ἐπὶ νῆας Ἀχαιῶν χαλκοχιτώνων

Speak, conceal not what hath laid

λυσόμενός τε θύγατρα φέρων τʼ ἀπερείσιʼ ἄποινα,

Such hard hand on thee, let both know.” He, sighing like a storm,

στέμματʼ ἔχων ἐν χερσὶν ἑκηβόλου Ἀπόλλωνος

Replied: “Thou dost know. Why should I things known again inform?

χρυσέῳ ἀνὰ σκήπτρῳ, καὶ λίσσετο πάντας Ἀχαιούς,

We march’d to Thebes, the sacred town of king Eëtion,

Ἀτρεΐδα δὲ μάλιστα δύω κοσμήτορε λαῶν.

Sack’d it, and brought to fleet the spoil, which every valiant son

ἔνθʼ ἄλλοι μὲν πάντες ἐπευφήμησαν Ἀχαιοὶ

Of Greece indifferently shar’d. Atrides had for share

αἰδεῖσθαί θʼ ἱερῆα καὶ ἀγλαὰ δέχθαι ἄποινα·

Fair-cheek’d Chryseis. After which, his priest that shoots so far,

ἀλλʼ οὐκ Ἀτρεΐδῃ Ἀγαμέμνονι ἥνδανε θυμῷ,

Chryses, the fair Chryseis’ sire, arriv’d at th’ Achive fleet,

ἀλλὰ κακῶς ἀφίει, κρατερὸν δʼ ἐπὶ μῦθον ἔτελλε·

With infinite ransom, to redeem the dear imprison’d feet

χωόμενος δʼ ὁ γέρων πάλιν ᾤχετο· τοῖο δʼ Ἀπόλλων

Of his fair daughter. In his hands he held Apollo’s crown,

εὐξαμένου ἤκουσεν, ἐπεὶ μάλα οἱ φίλος ἦεν,

And golden sceptre; making suit to ev’ry Grecian son,

But most the sons of Atreüs, the others’ orderers,

ἧκε δʼ ἐπʼ Ἀργείοισι κακὸν βέλος· οἳ δέ νυ λαοὶ

Yet they least heard him; all the rest receiv’d with rev’rend ears

θνῇσκον ἐπασσύτεροι, τὰ δʼ ἐπῴχετο κῆλα θεοῖο

The motion, both the priest and gifts gracing, and holding worth

πάντῃ ἀνὰ στρατὸν εὐρὺν Ἀχαιῶν· ἄμμι δὲ μάντις

His wish’d acceptance. Atreus’ son yet (vex’d) commanded forth

εὖ εἰδὼς ἀγόρευε θεοπροπίας ἑκάτοιο.

With rude terms Phœbus’ rev’rend priest; who, angry, made retreat,

αὐτίκʼ ἐγὼ πρῶτος κελόμην θεὸν ἱλάσκεσθαι·

And pray’d to Phœbus, in whose grace he standing passing great

Ἀτρεΐωνα δʼ ἔπειτα χόλος λάβεν, αἶψα δʼ ἀναστὰς

Got his petitión. The God an ill shaft sent abroad

ἠπείλησεν μῦθον ὃ δὴ τετελεσμένος ἐστί·

That tumbled down the Greeks in heaps. The host had no abode

τὴν μὲν γὰρ σὺν νηῒ θοῇ ἑλίκωπες Ἀχαιοὶ

That was not visited. We ask’d a prophet that well knew

ἐς Χρύσην πέμπουσιν, ἄγουσι δὲ δῶρα ἄνακτι·

The cause of all; and from his lips Apollo’s prophecies flew,

τὴν δὲ νέον κλισίηθεν ἔβαν κήρυκες ἄγοντες

Telling his anger. First myself exhorted to appease

κούρην Βρισῆος τήν μοι δόσαν υἷες Ἀχαιῶν.

The anger’d God; which Atreus’ son did at the heart displease,

ἀλλὰ σὺ εἰ δύνασαί γε περίσχεο παιδὸς ἑῆος·

And up he stood, us’d threats, perform’d. The black-eyed Greeks sent

ἐλθοῦσʼ Οὔλυμπον δὲ Δία λίσαι, εἴ ποτε δή τι

home

ἢ ἔπει ὤνησας κραδίην Διὸς ἠὲ καὶ ἔργῳ.

Chryseis to her sire, and gave his God a hecatomb.

πολλάκι γάρ σεο πατρὸς ἐνὶ μεγάροισιν ἄκουσα

Then, for Briseis, to my tents Atrides’ heralds came,

εὐχομένης ὅτʼ ἔφησθα κελαινεφέϊ Κρονίωνι

And took her that the Greeks gave all. If then thy pow’rs can frame

οἴη ἐν ἀθανάτοισιν ἀεικέα λοιγὸν ἀμῦναι,

Wreak for thy son, afford it. Scale Olympus, and implore

ὁππότε μιν ξυνδῆσαι Ὀλύμπιοι ἤθελον ἄλλοι

Jove (if by either word, or fact, thou ever didst restore

Ἥρη τʼ ἠδὲ Ποσειδάων καὶ Παλλὰς Ἀθήνη·

Joy to his griev’d heart) now to help. I oft have heard thee vaunt,

ἀλλὰ σὺ τόν γʼ ἐλθοῦσα θεὰ ὑπελύσαο δεσμῶν,

In court of Peleus, that alone thy hand was conversant

ὦχʼ ἑκατόγχειρον καλέσασʼ ἐς μακρὸν Ὄλυμπον,

In rescue from a cruel spoil the black-cloud-gath’ring Jove,

ὃν Βριάρεων καλέουσι θεοί, ἄνδρες δέ τε πάντες

Whom other Godheads would have bound (the Pow’r whose pace doth move

Αἰγαίωνʼ, ὃ γὰρ αὖτε βίην οὗ πατρὸς ἀμείνων·

The round earth, heav’n’s great Queen, and Pallas); to whose bands

ὅς ῥα παρὰ Κρονίωνι καθέζετο κύδεϊ γαίων·

Thou cam’st with rescue, bringing up him with the hundred hands

τὸν καὶ ὑπέδεισαν μάκαρες θεοὶ οὐδʼ ἔτʼ ἔδησαν.

To great Olympus, whom the Gods call Briarëus, men

τῶν νῦν μιν μνήσασα παρέζεο καὶ λαβὲ γούνων

Ægæon, who his sire surpass’d, and was as strong again,

αἴ κέν πως ἐθέλῃσιν ἐπὶ Τρώεσσιν ἀρῆξαι,

And in that grace sat glad by Jove. Th’ immortals stood dismay’d

τοὺς δὲ κατὰ πρύμνας τε καὶ ἀμφʼ ἅλα ἔλσαι Ἀχαιοὺς

At his ascension, and gave free passage to his aid.

κτεινομένους, ἵνα πάντες ἐπαύρωνται βασιλῆος,

Of all this tell Jove; kneel to him, embrace his knee, and pray,

γνῷ δὲ καὶ Ἀτρεΐδης εὐρὺ κρείων Ἀγαμέμνων

If Troy’s aid he will ever deign, that now their forces may

ἣν ἄτην ὅ τʼ ἄριστον Ἀχαιῶν οὐδὲν ἔτισεν.

Beat home the Greeks to fleet and sea; embruing their retreat

τὸν δʼ ἠμείβετʼ ἔπειτα Θέτις κατὰ δάκρυ χέουσα·

In slaughter; their pains pay’ng the wreak of their proud sov’reign’s

ὤ μοι τέκνον ἐμόν, τί νύ σʼ ἔτρεφον αἰνὰ τεκοῦσα;

heat;

αἴθʼ ὄφελες παρὰ νηυσὶν ἀδάκρυτος καὶ ἀπήμων

And that far-ruling king may know, from his poor soldier’s harms

ἧσθαι, ἐπεί νύ τοι αἶσα μίνυνθά περ οὔ τι μάλα δήν·

His own harm falls; his own and all in mine, his best in arms.”

νῦν δʼ ἅμα τʼ ὠκύμορος καὶ ὀϊζυρὸς περὶ πάντων

Her answer she pour’d out in tears: “O me, my son,” said she,

ἔπλεο· τώ σε κακῇ αἴσῃ τέκον ἐν μεγάροισι.

“Why brought I up thy being at all, that brought thee forth to be

τοῦτο δέ τοι ἐρέουσα ἔπος Διὶ τερπικεραύνῳ

Sad subject of so hard a fate? O would to heav’n, that since

εἶμʼ αὐτὴ πρὸς Ὄλυμπον ἀγάννιφον αἴ κε πίθηται.

Thy fate is little, and not long, thou might’st without offence

ἀλλὰ σὺ μὲν νῦν νηυσὶ παρήμενος ὠκυπόροισι

And tears perform it! But to live, thrall to so stern a fate

μήνιʼ Ἀχαιοῖσιν, πολέμου δʼ ἀποπαύεο πάμπαν·

As grants thee least life, and that least so most unfortunate,

Ζεὺς γὰρ ἐς Ὠκεανὸν μετʼ ἀμύμονας Αἰθιοπῆας

Grieves me t’ have giv’n thee any life. But what thou wishest now,

χθιζὸς ἔβη κατὰ δαῖτα, θεοὶ δʼ ἅμα πάντες ἕποντο·

If Jove will grant, I’ll up and ask; Olympus crown’d with snow

δωδεκάτῃ δέ τοι αὖτις ἐλεύσεται Οὔλυμπον δέ,

I’ll climb; but sit thou fast at fleet, renounce all war, and feed

καὶ τότʼ ἔπειτά τοι εἶμι Διὸς ποτὶ χαλκοβατὲς δῶ,

Thy heart with wrath, and hope of wreak; till which come, thou shalt

καί μιν γουνάσομαι καί μιν πείσεσθαι ὀΐω.

need

ὣς ἄρα φωνήσασʼ ἀπεβήσετο, τὸν δὲ λίπʼ αὐτοῦ

A little patience. Jupiter went yesterday to feast

χωόμενον κατὰ θυμὸν ἐϋζώνοιο γυναικὸς

Amongst the blameless Æthiops, in th’ ocean’s deepen’d breast,

τήν ῥα βίῃ ἀέκοντος ἀπηύρων· αὐτὰρ Ὀδυσσεὺς

All Gods attending him; the twelfth, high heav’n again he sees,

ἐς Χρύσην ἵκανεν ἄγων ἱερὴν ἑκατόμβην.

And then his brass-paved court I’ll scale, cling to his pow’rful knees,

οἳ δʼ ὅτε δὴ λιμένος πολυβενθέος ἐντὸς ἵκοντο

And doubt not but to win thy wish.” Thus, made she her remove,

ἱστία μὲν στείλαντο, θέσαν δʼ ἐν νηῒ μελαίνῃ,

And left wrath tyring on her son, for his enforcèd love.

ἱστὸν δʼ ἱστοδόκῃ πέλασαν προτόνοισιν ὑφέντες

Ulysses, with the hecatomb, arriv’d at Chrysa’s shore;

καρπαλίμως, τὴν δʼ εἰς ὅρμον προέρεσσαν ἐρετμοῖς.

And when amidst the hav’n’s deep mouth, they came to use the oar,

ἐκ δʼ εὐνὰς ἔβαλον, κατὰ δὲ πρυμνήσιʼ ἔδησαν·

They straight strook sail, then roll’d them up, and on the hatches

ἐκ δὲ καὶ αὐτοὶ βαῖνον ἐπὶ ῥηγμῖνι θαλάσσης,

threw;

ἐκ δʼ ἑκατόμβην βῆσαν ἑκηβόλῳ Ἀπόλλωνι·

The top-mast to the kelsine then, with halyards down they drew;

ἐκ δὲ Χρυσηῒς νηὸς βῆ ποντοπόροιο.

Then brought the ship to port with oars; then forked anchor cast;

τὴν μὲν ἔπειτʼ ἐπὶ βωμὸν ἄγων πολύμητις Ὀδυσσεὺς

And, ’gainst the violence of storm, for drifting made her fast.

πατρὶ φίλῳ ἐν χερσὶ τίθει καί μιν προσέειπεν·

All come ashore, they all expos’d the holy hecatomb

ὦ Χρύση, πρό μʼ ἔπεμψεν ἄναξ ἀνδρῶν Ἀγαμέμνων

To angry Phœbus, and, with it, Chryseis welcom’d home;

παῖδά τε σοὶ ἀγέμεν, Φοίβῳ θʼ ἱερὴν ἑκατόμβην

Whom to her sire, wise Ithacus, that did at th’ altar stand,

ῥέξαι ὑπὲρ Δαναῶν ὄφρʼ ἱλασόμεσθα ἄνακτα,

For honour led, and, spoken thus, resign’d her to his hand:

ὃς νῦν Ἀργείοισι πολύστονα κήδεʼ ἐφῆκεν.

“Chryses, the mighty king of men, great Agamemnon, sends

ὣς εἰπὼν ἐν χερσὶ τίθει, ὃ δὲ δέξατο χαίρων

Thy lov’d seed by my hands to thine; and to thy God commends

παῖδα φίλην· τοὶ δʼ ὦκα θεῷ ἱερὴν ἑκατόμβην

A hecatomb, which my charge is to sacrifice, and seek

ἑξείης ἔστησαν ἐΰδμητον περὶ βωμόν,

Our much-sigh-mix’d woe his recure, invok’d by ev’ry Greek.”

χερνίψαντο δʼ ἔπειτα καὶ οὐλοχύτας ἀνέλοντο.

Thus he resign’d her, and her sire receiv’d her highly joy’d.

τοῖσιν δὲ Χρύσης μεγάλʼ εὔχετο χεῖρας ἀνασχών·

About the well-built altar, then, they orderly employ’d

κλῦθί μευ ἀργυρότοξʼ, ὃς Χρύσην ἀμφιβέβηκας

The sacred off’ring, wash’d their hands, took salt cakes; and the

Κίλλαν τε ζαθέην Τενέδοιό τε ἶφι ἀνάσσεις·

priest,

ἦ μὲν δή ποτʼ ἐμεῦ πάρος ἔκλυες εὐξαμένοιο,

With hands held up to heav’n, thus pray’d: “O thou that all things

τίμησας μὲν ἐμέ, μέγα δʼ ἴψαο λαὸν Ἀχαιῶν·

seest,

ἠδʼ ἔτι καὶ νῦν μοι τόδʼ ἐπικρήηνον ἐέλδωρ·

Fautour of Chrysa, whose fair hand doth guard fully dispose

ἤδη νῦν Δαναοῖσιν ἀεικέα λοιγὸν ἄμυνον.

Celestial Cilia, governing in all pow’r Tenedos,

ὣς ἔφατʼ εὐχόμενος, τοῦ δʼ ἔκλυε Φοῖβος Ἀπόλλων.

αὐτὰρ ἐπεί ῥʼ εὔξαντο καὶ οὐλοχύτας προβάλοντο,

O hear thy priest, and as thy hand, in free grace to my pray’rs,

αὐέρυσαν μὲν πρῶτα καὶ ἔσφαξαν καὶ ἔδειραν,

Shot fervent plague-shafts through the Greeks, now hearten their

μηρούς τʼ ἐξέταμον κατά τε κνίσῃ ἐκάλυψαν

affairs

δίπτυχα ποιήσαντες, ἐπʼ αὐτῶν δʼ ὠμοθέτησαν·

With health renew’d, and quite remove th’ infection from their blood.”

καῖε δʼ ἐπὶ σχίζῃς ὁ γέρων, ἐπὶ δʼ αἴθοπα οἶνον

He pray’d; and to his pray’rs again the God propitious stood.

λεῖβε· νέοι δὲ παρʼ αὐτὸν ἔχον πεμπώβολα χερσίν.

All, after pray’r, cast on salt cakes, drew back, kill’d, flay’d the

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ κατὰ μῆρε κάη καὶ σπλάγχνα πάσαντο,

beeves,

μίστυλλόν τʼ ἄρα τἆλλα καὶ ἀμφʼ ὀβελοῖσιν ἔπειραν,

Cut out and dubb’d with fat their thighs, fair dress’d with doubled

ὤπτησάν τε περιφραδέως, ἐρύσαντό τε πάντα.

leaves,

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ παύσαντο πόνου τετύκοντό τε δαῖτα

And on them all the sweetbreads’ prick’d, The priest, with small sere

δαίνυντʼ, οὐδέ τι θυμὸς ἐδεύετο δαιτὸς ἐΐσης.

wood,

αὐτὰρ ἐπεὶ πόσιος καὶ ἐδητύος ἐξ ἔρον ἕντο,

Did sacrifice, pour’d on red wine; by whom the young men stood,

κοῦροι μὲν κρητῆρας ἐπεστέψαντο ποτοῖο,

And turn’d, in five ranks, spits; on which (the legs enough) they eat

νώμησαν δʼ ἄρα πᾶσιν ἐπαρξάμενοι δεπάεσσιν·

The inwards; then in giggots cut the other fit for meat,

οἳ δὲ πανημέριοι μολπῇ θεὸν ἱλάσκοντο

And put to fire; which roasted well they drew. The labour done,

καλὸν ἀείδοντες παιήονα κοῦροι Ἀχαιῶν

They serv’d the feast in, that fed all to satisfaction.

μέλποντες ἑκάεργον· ὃ δὲ φρένα τέρπετʼ ἀκούων.

Desire of meat and wine thus quench’d, the youths crown’d cups of wine

ἦμος δʼ ἠέλιος κατέδυ καὶ ἐπὶ κνέφας ἦλθε,

Drunk off, and fill’d again to all. That day was held divine,

δὴ τότε κοιμήσαντο παρὰ πρυμνήσια νηός·

And spent in pæans to the Sun, who heard with pleaséd ear;

ἦμος δʼ ἠριγένεια φάνη ῥοδοδάκτυλος Ἠώς,

When whose bright chariot stoop’d to sea, and twilight hid the clear,

καὶ τότʼ ἔπειτʼ ἀνάγοντο μετὰ στρατὸν εὐρὺν Ἀχαιῶν·

All soundly on their cables slept, ev’n till the night was worn.

τοῖσιν δʼ ἴκμενον οὖρον ἵει ἑκάεργος Ἀπόλλων·

And when the lady of the light, the rosy-finger’d Morn,

οἳ δʼ ἱστὸν στήσαντʼ ἀνά θʼ ἱστία λευκὰ πέτασσαν,

Rose from the hills, all fresh arose, and to the camp retir’d.

ἐν δʼ ἄνεμος πρῆσεν μέσον ἱστίον, ἀμφὶ δὲ κῦμα

Apollo with a fore-right wind their swelling bark inspir’d.

στείρῃ πορφύρεον μεγάλʼ ἴαχε νηὸς ἰούσης·

The top-mast hoisted, milk-white sails on his round breast they put,

ἣ δʼ ἔθεεν κατὰ κῦμα διαπρήσσουσα κέλευθον.

The mizens strooted with the gale, the ship her course did cut

αὐτὰρ ἐπεί ῥʼ ἵκοντο κατὰ στρατὸν εὐρὺν Ἀχαιῶν,

So swiftly that the parted waves against her ribs did roar;

νῆα μὲν οἵ γε μέλαιναν ἐπʼ ἠπείροιο ἔρυσσαν

Which, coming to the camp, they drew aloft the sandy shore,

ὑψοῦ ἐπὶ ψαμάθοις, ὑπὸ δʼ ἕρματα μακρὰ τάνυσσαν·

Where, laid on stocks, each soldier kept his quarter as before.

αὐτοὶ δʼ ἐσκίδναντο κατὰ κλισίας τε νέας τε.

But Peleus’ son, swift-foot Achilles, at his swift ships sate,

αὐτὰρ ὃ μήνιε νηυσὶ παρήμενος ὠκυπόροισι

Burning in wrath, nor ever came to councils of estate

διογενὴς Πηλῆος υἱὸς πόδας ὠκὺς Ἀχιλλεύς·

That make men honour’d, never trod the fierce embattled field,

οὔτέ ποτʼ εἰς ἀγορὴν πωλέσκετο κυδιάνειραν

But kept close, and his lov’d heart pin’d, what fight and cries could

οὔτέ ποτʼ ἐς πόλεμον, ἀλλὰ φθινύθεσκε φίλον κῆρ

yield

αὖθι μένων, ποθέεσκε δʼ ἀϋτήν τε πτόλεμόν τε.

Thirsting at all parts to the host, And now, since first he told

ἀλλʼ ὅτε δή ῥʼ ἐκ τοῖο δυωδεκάτη γένετʼ ἠώς,

His wrongs to Thetis, twelve fair morns their ensigns did unfold,

καὶ τότε δὴ πρὸς Ὄλυμπον ἴσαν θεοὶ αἰὲν ἐόντες

And then the ever-living gods mounted Olympus, Jove

πάντες ἅμα, Ζεὺς δʼ ἦρχε· Θέτις δʼ οὐ λήθετʼ ἐφετμέων

First in ascension. Thetis then, remember’d well to move

παιδὸς ἑοῦ, ἀλλʼ ἥ γʼ ἀνεδύσετο κῦμα θαλάσσης.

Achilles’ motion, rose from sea, and, by the morn’s first light,

ἠερίη δʼ ἀνέβη μέγαν οὐρανὸν Οὔλυμπόν τε.

The great heav’n and Olympus climb’d; where, in supremest height

εὗρεν δʼ εὐρύοπα Κρονίδην ἄτερ ἥμενον ἄλλων

Of all that many-headed hill, she saw the far-seen son

ἀκροτάτῃ κορυφῇ πολυδειράδος Οὐλύμποιο·

Of Saturn, set from all the rest, in his free seat alone.

καί ῥα πάροιθʼ αὐτοῖο καθέζετο, καὶ λάβε γούνων

Before whom, on her own knees fall’n, the knees of Jupiter

σκαιῇ, δεξιτερῇ δʼ ἄρʼ ὑπʼ ἀνθερεῶνος ἑλοῦσα

Her left hand held, her right his chin, and thus she did prefer

λισσομένη προσέειπε Δία Κρονίωνα ἄνακτα·

Her son’s petition: “Father Jove! If ever I have stood

Ζεῦ πάτερ εἴ ποτε δή σε μετʼ ἀθανάτοισιν ὄνησα

Aidful to thee in word or work, with this imploréd good,

ἢ ἔπει ἢ ἔργῳ, τόδε μοι κρήηνον ἐέλδωρ·

Requite my aid, renown my son, since in so short a race

τίμησόν μοι υἱὸν ὃς ὠκυμορώτατος ἄλλων

(Past others) thou confin’st his life. An insolent disgrace

ἔπλετʼ· ἀτάρ μιν νῦν γε ἄναξ ἀνδρῶν Ἀγαμέμνων

Is done him by the king of men; he forc’d from him a prise

ἠτίμησεν· ἑλὼν γὰρ ἔχει γέρας αὐτὸς ἀπούρας.

Won with his sword. But thou, O Jove, that art most strong, most wise,

ἀλλὰ σύ πέρ μιν τῖσον Ὀλύμπιε μητίετα Ζεῦ·

Honour my son for my sake; add strength to the Trojans’ side

τόφρα δʼ ἐπὶ Τρώεσσι τίθει κράτος ὄφρʼ ἂν Ἀχαιοὶ

By his side’s weakness in his want; and see Troy amplified

υἱὸν ἐμὸν τίσωσιν ὀφέλλωσίν τέ ἑ τιμῇ.

In conquest, so much, and so long, till Greece may give again

ὣς φάτο· τὴν δʼ οὔ τι προσέφη νεφεληγερέτα Ζεύς,

The glory reft him, and the more illustrate the free reign

ἀλλʼ ἀκέων δὴν ἧστο· Θέτις δʼ ὡς ἥψατο γούνων

Of his wrong’d honour.” Jove at this sate silent; not a word

ὣς ἔχετʼ ἐμπεφυυῖα, καὶ εἴρετο δεύτερον αὖτις·

In long space pass’d him. Thetis still hung on his knee, implor’d

νημερτὲς μὲν δή μοι ὑπόσχεο καὶ κατάνευσον

The second time his help, and said: “Grant, or deny my suit,

ἢ ἀπόειπʼ, ἐπεὶ οὔ τοι ἔπι δέος, ὄφρʼ ἐῢ εἰδέω

Be free in what thou dost; I know, thou canst not sit thus mute

ὅσσον ἐγὼ μετὰ πᾶσιν ἀτιμοτάτη θεός εἰμι.

For fear of any; speak, deny, that so I may be sure,

τὴν δὲ μέγʼ ὀχθήσας προσέφη νεφεληγερέτα Ζεύς·

Of all heav’n’s Goddesses ’tis I, that only must endure

ἦ δὴ λοίγια ἔργʼ ὅ τέ μʼ ἐχθοδοπῆσαι ἐφήσεις

Dishonour by thee.” Jupiter, the great cloud-gath’rer, griev’d

Ἥρῃ ὅτʼ ἄν μʼ ἐρέθῃσιν ὀνειδείοις ἐπέεσσιν·

With thought of what a world of griefs this suit ask’d, being achiev’d,

ἣ δὲ καὶ αὔτως μʼ αἰεὶ ἐν ἀθανάτοισι θεοῖσι

Swell’d, sigh’d, and answer’d: “Works of death thou urgest. O, at this

νεικεῖ, καί τέ μέ φησι μάχῃ Τρώεσσιν ἀρήγειν.

Juno will storm, and all my pow’rs inflame with contumelies.

ἀλλὰ σὺ μὲν νῦν αὖτις ἀπόστιχε μή τι νοήσῃ

Ever she wrangles, charging me in ear of all the Gods

Ἥρη· ἐμοὶ δέ κε ταῦτα μελήσεται ὄφρα τελέσσω·

That I am partial still, that I add the displeasing odds

εἰ δʼ ἄγε τοι κεφαλῇ κατανεύσομαι ὄφρα πεποίθῃς·

Of my aid to the Ilians. Begone then, lest she see;

τοῦτο γὰρ ἐξ ἐμέθεν γε μετʼ ἀθανάτοισι μέγιστον

Leave thy request to my care; yet, that trust may hearten thee

τέκμωρ· οὐ γὰρ ἐμὸν παλινάγρετον οὐδʼ ἀπατηλὸν

With thy desire’s grant, and my pow’r to give it act approve

οὐδʼ ἀτελεύτητον ὅ τί κεν κεφαλῇ κατανεύσω.

How vain her strife is, to thy pray’r my eminent head shall move;