Book VIII
The saffron-mantled morning[1] now was spread O’er all the nations, when the Thunderer Jove On the deep-fork’d Olympian topmost height Convened the Gods in council, amid whom He spake himself; they all attentive heard.5 Gods! Goddesses! Inhabitants of heaven! Attend; I make my secret purpose known. Let neither God nor Goddess interpose My counsel to rescind, but with one heart Approve it, that it reach, at once, its end.10 Whom I shall mark soever from the rest Withdrawn, that he may Greeks or Trojans aid, Disgrace shall find him; shamefully chastised He shall return to the Olympian heights, Or I will hurl him deep into the gulfs15 Of gloomy Tartarus, where Hell shuts fast Her iron gates, and spreads her brazen floor, As far below the shades, as earth from heaven. There shall he learn how far I pass in might All others; which if ye incline to doubt,20 Now prove me. Let ye down the golden chain[2] From heaven, and at its nether links pull all, Both Goddesses and Gods. But me your King, Supreme in wisdom, ye shall never draw To earth from heaven, toil adverse as ye may.25 Yet I, when once I shall be pleased to pull, The earth itself, itself the sea, and you Will lift with ease together, and will wind The chain around the spiry summit sharp Of the Olympian, that all things upheaved30 Shall hang in the mid heaven. So far do I, Compared with all who live, transcend them all. He ended, and the Gods long time amazed Sat silent, for with awful tone he spake: But at the last Pallas blue-eyed began.35 Father! Saturnian Jove! of Kings supreme! We know thy force resistless; but our hearts Feel not the less, when we behold the Greeks Exhausting all the sorrows of their lot. If thou command, we, doubtless, will abstain40 From battle, yet such counsel to the Greeks Suggesting still, as may in part effect Their safety, lest thy wrath consume them all. To whom with smiles answer’d cloud-gatherer Jove. Fear not, my child! stern as mine accent was,45 I forced a frown—no more. For in mine heart Nought feel I but benevolence to thee. He said, and to his chariot join’d his steeds Swift, brazen-hoof’d, and mailed with wavy gold; He put on golden raiment, his bright scourge50 Of gold receiving rose into his seat, And lash’d his steeds; they not unwilling flew Midway the earth between and starry heaven. To spring-fed Ida, mother of wild beasts, He came, where stands in Gargarus[3] his shrine55 Breathing fresh incense! there the Sire of all Arriving, loosed his coursers, and around Involving them in gather’d clouds opaque, Sat on the mountain’s head, in his own might Exulting, with the towers of Ilium all60 Beneath his eye, and the whole fleet of Greece. In all their tents, meantime, Achaia’s sons Took short refreshment, and for fight prepared. On the other side, though fewer, yet constrain’d By strong necessity, throughout all Troy,65 In the defence of children and wives Ardent, the Trojans panted for the field. Wide flew the city gates: forth rush’d to war Horsemen and foot, and tumult wild arose. They met, they clash’d; loud was the din of spears70 And bucklers on their bosoms brazen-mail’d Encountering, shields in opposition from Met bossy shields, and tumult wild arose.[4] There many a shout and many a dying groan Were heard, the slayer and the maim’d aloud75 Clamoring, and the earth was drench’d with blood. Till sacred morn[5] had brighten’d into noon, The vollied weapons on both sides their task Perform’d effectual, and the people fell. But when the sun had climb’d the middle skies,80 The Sire of all then took his golden scales;[6] Doom against doom he weigh’d, the eternal fates In counterpoise, of Trojans and of Greeks. He rais’d the beam; low sank the heavier lot Of the Achaians; the Achaian doom85 Subsided, and the Trojan struck the skies. Then roar’d the thunders from the summit hurl’d of Ida, and his vivid lightnings flew Into Achaia’s host. They at the sight Astonish’d stood; fear whiten’d every cheek.[7]90 Idomeneus dared not himself abide That shock, nor Agamemnon stood, nor stood The heroes Ajax, ministers of Mars. Gerenian Nestor, guardian of the Greeks, Alone fled not, nor he by choice remain’d,95 But by his steed retarded, which the mate Of beauteous Helen, Paris, with a shaft Had stricken where the forelock grows, a part Of all most mortal. Tortured by the wound Erect he rose, the arrow in his brain,100 And writhing furious, scared his fellow-steeds. Meantime, while, strenuous, with his falchion’s edge The hoary warrior stood slashing the reins, Through multitudes of fierce pursuers borne On rapid wheels, the dauntless charioteer105 Approach’d him, Hector. Then, past hope, had died The ancient King, but Diomede discern’d His peril imminent, and with a voice Like thunder, called Ulysses to his aid. Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d!110 Art thou too fugitive, and turn’st thy back Like the base multitude? Ah! fear a lance Implanted ignominious in thy spine. Stop—Nestor dies. Fell Hector is at hand. So shouted Diomede, whose summons loud,115 Ulysses yet heard not, but, passing, flew With headlong haste to the Achaian fleet. Then, Diomede, unaided as he was, Rush’d ardent to the vanward, and before The steeds of the Neleian sovereign old120 Standing, in accents wing’d, him thus address’d. Old Chief! these youthful warriors are too brisk For thee, press’d also by encroaching age, Thy servant too is feeble, and thy steeds Are tardy. Mount my chariot. Thou shalt see125 With what rapidity the steeds of Troy, Pursuing or retreating, scour the field. I took them from that terror of his foes, Æneas. Thine to our attendants leave, While these against the warlike powers of Troy130 We push direct; that Hector’s self may know If my spear rage not furious as his own. He said, nor the Gerenian Chief refused. Thenceforth their servants, Sthenelus and good Eurymedon, took charge of Nestor’s steeds,135 And they the chariot of Tydides both Ascended; Nestor seized the reins, plied well The scourge, and soon they met. Tydides hurl’d At Hector first, while rapid he advanced; But missing Hector, wounded in the breast140 Eniopeus his charioteer, the son Of brave Thebæus, managing the steeds. He fell; his fiery coursers at the sound Startled, recoil’d, and where he fell he died. Deep sorrow for his charioteer o’erwhelm’d145 The mind of Hector; yet, although he mourn’d He left him, and another sought as brave. Nor wanted long his steeds a charioteer, For finding soon the son of Iphitus, Bold Archeptolemus, he bade him mount150 His chariot, and the reins gave to his hand. Then deeds of bloodiest note should have ensued, Penn’d had the Trojans been, as lambs, in Troy, But for quick succor of the sire of all. Thundering, he downward hurled his candent bolt155 To the horse-feet of Diomede; dire fumed The flaming sulphur, and both horses drove Under the axle, belly to the ground. Forth flew the splendid reins from Nestor’s hand, And thus to Diomede, appall’d, he spake.160
Back to the fleet, Tydides! Can’st not see That Jove ordains not, now, the victory thine? The son of Saturn glorifies to-day This Trojan, and, if such his will, can make The morrow ours; but vain it is to thwart165 The mind of Jove, for he is Lord of all. To him the valiant Diomede replied. Thou hast well said, old warrior! but the pang That wrings my soul, is this. The public ear In Ilium shall from Hector’s lips be told—170 I drove Tydides—fearing me he fled. So shall he vaunt, and may the earth her jaws That moment opening swallow me alive! Him answer’d the Gerenian warrior old. What saith the son of Tydeus, glorious Chief?175 Should Hector so traduce thee as to call Thee base and timid, neither Trojan him Nor Dardan would believe, nor yet the wives Of numerous shielded warriors brave of Troy, Widow’d by thy unconquerable arm.180 So saying, he through the fugitives his steeds Turn’d swift to flight. Then Hector and his host With clamor infinite their darts wo-wing’d Shower’d after them, and Hector, mighty Chief Majestic, from afar, thus call’d aloud.185 Tydides! thee the Danaï swift-horsed Were wont to grace with a superior seat, The mess of honor, and the brimming cup, But now will mock thee. Thou art woman now. Go, timorous girl! Thou never shalt behold190 Me flying, climb our battlements, or lead Our women captive. I will slay thee first. He ceased. Then Diomede in dread suspense Thrice purposed, turning, to withstand the foe, And thrice in thunder from the mountain-top195 Jove gave the signal of success to Troy. When Hector thus the Trojans hail’d aloud. Trojans and Lycians, and close-warring sons Of Dardanus, oh summon all your might, Now, now be men! I know that from his heart200 Saturnian Jove glory and bright success For me prepares, but havoc for the Greeks. Fools! they shall find this wall which they have raised Too weak to check my course, a feeble guard Contemptible; such also is the trench;205 My steeds shall slight it with an easy leap. But when ye see me in their fleet arrived, Remember fire. Then bring me flaming brands That I may burn their galleys and themselves Slaughter beside them, struggling in the smoke.[8]210 He spake, and thus encouraged next his steeds. Xanthus! Podargus! and ye generous pair Æthon and glossy Lampus! now requite Mine, and the bounty of Andromache, Far-famed Eëtion’s daughter; she your bowl215 With corn fresh-flavor’d and with wine full oft Hath mingled, your refreshment seeking first Ere mine, who have a youthful husband’s claim.[9] Now follow! now be swift; that we may seize The shield of Nestor, bruited to the skies220 As golden all, trappings and disk alike. Now from the shoulders of the equestrian Chief Tydides tear we off his splendid mail, The work of Vulcan.[10] May we take but these, I have good hope that, ere this night be spent,225 The Greeks shall climb their galleys and away. So vaunted he, but Juno with disdain His proud boast heard, and shuddering in her throne, Rock’d the Olympian; turning then toward The Ocean’s mighty sovereign, thus she spake.230 Alas! earth-shaking sovereign of the waves, Feel’st thou no pity of the perishing Greeks? Yet Greece, in Helice, with gifts nor few Nor sordid, and in Ægæ, honors thee, Whom therefore thou shouldst prosper. Would we all235 Who favor Greece associate to repulse The Trojans, and to check loud-thundering Jove, On Ida seated he might lour alone. To whom the Sovereign, Shaker of the Shores, Indignant. Juno! rash in speech! what word240 Hath ’scaped thy lips? never, with my consent, Shall we, the powers subordinate, in arms With Jove contend. He far excels us all. So they. Meantime, the trench and wall between,[11] The narrow interval with steeds was fill’d245 Close throng’d and shielded warriors. There immew’d By Priameian Hector, fierce as Mars, They stood, for Hector had the help of Jove. And now with blazing fire their gallant barks He had consumed, but Juno moved the mind250 Of Agamemnon, vigilant himself, To exhortation of Achaia’s host. Through camp and fleet the monarch took his way, And, his wide robe imperial in his hand, High on Ulysses’ huge black galley stood,255 The central ship conspicuous; thence his voice Might reach the most remote of all the line At each extreme, where Ajax had his tent Pitch’d, and Achilles, fearless of surprise. Thence, with loud voice, the Grecians thus he hail’d.260 Oh shame to Greece! Warriors in show alone! Where is your boasted prowess? Ye profess’d Vain-glorious erst in Lemnos, while ye fed Plenteously on the flesh of beeves full-grown, And crown’d your beakers high, that ye would face265 Each man a hundred Trojans in the field— Ay, twice a hundred—yet are all too few To face one Hector now; nor doubt I aught But he shall soon fire the whole fleet of Greece. Jove! Father! what great sovereign ever felt270 Thy frowns as I? Whom hast thou shamed as me? Yet I neglected not, through all the course Of our disasterous voyage (in the hope That we should vanquish Troy) thy sacred rites, But where I found thine altar, piled it high275 With fat and flesh of bulls, on every shore. But oh, vouchsafe to us, that we at least Ourselves, deliver’d, may escape the sword, Nor let their foes thus tread the Grecians down! He said. The eternal father pitying saw280 His tears, and for the monarch’s sake preserved The people. Instant, surest of all signs, He sent his eagle; in his pounces strong A fawn he bore, fruit of the nimble hind, Which fast beside the beauteous altar raised285 To Panomphæan[12] Jove sudden he dropp’d.[13] They, conscious, soon, that sent from Jove he came, More ardent sprang to fight. Then none of all Those numerous Chiefs could boast that he outstripp’d Tydides, urging forth beyond the foss290 His rapid steeds, and rushing to the war. He, foremost far, a Trojan slew, the son Of Phradmon, Ageläus; as he turn’d His steeds to flight, him turning with his spear Through back and bosom Diomede transpierced.295 And with loud clangor of his arms he fell. Then, royal Agamemnon pass’d the trench And Menelaus; either Ajax, then, Clad with fresh prowess both; them follow’d, next, Idomeneus, with his heroic friend300 In battle dread as homicidal Mars, Meriones; Evæmon’s son renown’d Succeeded, bold Eurypylus; and ninth Teucer, wide-straining his impatient bow. He under covert fought of the broad shield305 Of Telamonian Ajax; Ajax high Upraised his shield; the hero from beneath Took aim, and whom his arrow struck, he fell; Then close as to his mother’s side a child For safety creeps, Teucer to Ajax’ side310 Retired, and Ajax shielded him again. Whom then slew Teucer first, illustrious Chief? Orsilochus, and Ophelestes, first, And Ormenus he slew, then Dætor died, Chromius and Lycophontes brave in fight315 With Amopaon Polyæmon’s son, And Melanippus. These, together heap’d, All fell by Teucer on the plain of Troy. The Trojan ranks thinn’d by his mighty bow The King of armies Agamemnon saw320 Well-pleased, and him approaching, thus began. Brave Telamonian Teucer, oh, my friend, Thus shoot, that light may visit once again The Danaï, and Telamon rejoice! Thee Telamon within his own abode325 Rear’d although spurious; mount him, in return, Although remote, on glory’s heights again. I tell thee, and the effect shall follow sure, Let but the Thunderer and Minerva grant The pillage of fair Ilium to the Greeks,330 And I will give to thy victorious hand, After my own, the noblest recompense, A tripod or a chariot with its steeds, Or some fair captive to partake thy bed. To whom the generous Teucer thus replied.335 Atrides! glorious monarch! wherefore me Exhortest thou to battle? who myself Glow with sufficient ardor, and such strength As heaven affords me spare not to employ. Since first we drove them back, with watchful eye340 Their warriors I have mark’d; eight shafts my bow Hath sent long-barb’d, and every shaft, well-aim’d. The body of some Trojan youth robust Hath pierced, but still you ravening wolf escapes. He said, and from the nerve another shaft345 Impatient sent at Hector; but it flew Devious, and brave Gorgythion struck instead. Him beautiful Castianira, brought By Priam from Æsyma, nymph of form Celestial, to the King of Ilium bore.350 As in the garden, with the weight surcharged Of its own fruit, and drench’d by vernal rains The poppy falls oblique, so he his head Hung languid, by his helmet’s weight depress’d.[14] Then Teucer yet an arrow from the nerve355 Dispatch’d at Hector, with impatience fired To pierce him; but again his weapon err’d Turn’d by Apollo, and the bosom struck Of Archeptolemus, his rapid steeds To battle urging, Hector’s charioteer.360 He fell, his fiery coursers at the sound Recoil’d, and lifeless where he fell he lay. Deep sorrow for his charioteer the mind O’erwhelm’d of Hector, yet he left the slain, And seeing his own brother nigh at hand,365 Cebriones, him summon’d to the reins, Who with alacrity that charge received. Then Hector, leaping with a dreadful shout From his resplendent chariot, grasp’d a stone, And rush’d on Teucer, vengeance in his heart.370 Teucer had newly fitted to the nerve An arrow keen selected from the rest, And warlike Hector, while he stood the cord Retracting, smote him with that rugged rock Just where the key-bone interposed divides375 The neck and bosom, a most mortal part. It snapp’d the bow-string, and with numbing force Struck dead his hand; low on his knees he dropp’d, And from his opening grasp let fall the bow. Then not unmindful of a brother fallen380 Was Ajax, but, advancing rapid, stalk’d Around him, and his broad shield interposed, Till brave Alaster and Mecisteus, son Of Echius, friends of Teucer, from the earth Upraised and bore him groaning to the fleet.385 And now again fresh force Olympian Jove Gave to the Trojans; right toward the foss They drove the Greeks, while Hector in the van Advanced, death menacing in every look. As some fleet hound close-threatening flank or haunch390 Of boar or lion, oft as he his head Turns flying, marks him with a steadfast eye, So Hector chased the Grecians, slaying still The hindmost of the scatter’d multitude. But when, at length, both piles and hollow foss395 They had surmounted, and no few had fallen By Trojan hands, within their fleet they stood Imprison’d, calling each to each, and prayer With lifted hands, loud offering to the Gods. With Gorgon looks, meantime, and eyes of Mars,400 Hector impetuous his mane-tossing steeds From side to side before the rampart drove, When white-arm’d Juno pitying the Greeks, In accents wing’d her speech to Pallas turn’d. Alas, Jove’s daughter! shall not we at least405 In this extremity of their distress Care for the Grecians by the fatal force Of this one Chief destroy’d? I can endure The rage of Priameïan Hector now No longer; such dire mischiefs he hath wrought.410 Whom answer’d thus Pallas, cærulean-eyed. —And Hector had himself long since his life Resign’d and rage together, by the Greeks Slain under Ilium’s walls, but Jove, my sire, Mad counsels executing and perverse,415 Me counterworks in all that I attempt, Nor aught remembers how I saved ofttimes His son enjoin’d full many a task severe By King Eurystheus; to the Gods he wept, And me Jove sent in haste to his relief.420 But had I then foreseen what now I know, When through the adamantine gates he pass’d To bind the dog of hell, by the deep floods Hemm’d in of Styx, he had return’d no more. But Thetis wins him now; her will prevails,425 And mine he hates; for she hath kiss’d his knees And grasp’d his beard, and him in prayer implored That he would honor her heroic son Achilles, city-waster prince renown’d. ’Tis well—the day shall come when Jove again430 Shall call me darling, and his blue-eyed maid As heretofore;—but thou thy steeds prepare, While I, my father’s mansion entering, arm For battle. I would learn by trial sure, If Hector, Priam’s offspring famed in fight435 (Ourselves appearing in the walks of war) Will greet us gladly. Doubtless at the fleet Some Trojan also, shall to dogs resign His flesh for food, and to the fowls of heaven.
So counsell’d Pallas, nor the daughter dread440 Of mighty Saturn, Juno, disapproved, But busily and with dispatch prepared The trappings of her coursers golden-rein’d. Meantime, Minerva progeny of Jove, On the adamantine floor of his abode445 Let fall profuse her variegated robe, Labor of her own hands. She first put on The corslet of the cloud-assembler God, Then arm’d her for the field of wo, complete. Mounting the fiery chariot, next she seized450 Her ponderous spear, huge, irresistible, With which Jove’s awful daughter levels ranks Of heroes against whom her anger burns. Juno with lifted lash urged on the steeds. At their approach, spontaneous roar’d the wide-455 Unfolding gates of heaven; the heavenly gates Kept by the watchful Hours, to whom the charge Of the Olympian summit appertains, And of the boundless ether, back to roll, And to replace the cloudy barrier dense.460 Spurr’d through the portal flew the rapid steeds: Which when the Eternal Father from the heights Of Ida saw, kindling with instant ire To golden-pinion’d Iris thus he spake. Haste, Iris, turn them thither whence they came;465 Me let them not encounter; honor small To them, to me, should from that strife accrue. Tell them, and the effect shall sure ensue, That I will smite their steeds, and they shall halt Disabled; break their chariot, dash themselves470 Headlong, and ten whole years shall not efface The wounds by my avenging bolts impress’d. So shall my blue-eyed daughter learn to dread A father’s anger; but for the offence Of Juno, I resent it less; for she475 Clashes[15] with all my counsels from of old. He ended; Iris with a tempest’s speed From the Idæan summit soar’d at once To the Olympian; at the open gates Exterior of the mountain many-valed480 She stayed them, and her coming thus declared. Whither, and for what cause? What rage is this? Ye may not aid the Grecians; Jove forbids; The son of Saturn threatens, if ye force His wrath by perseverance into act,485 That he will smite your steeds, and they shall halt Disabled; break your chariot, dash yourselves Headlong, and ten whole years shall not efface The wounds by his avenging bolts impress’d. So shall his blue-eyed daughter learn to dread490 A father’s anger; but for the offence Of Juno, he resents it less; for she Clashes with all his counsels from of old. But thou, Minerva, if thou dare indeed Lift thy vast spear against the breast of Jove,495 Incorrigible art and dead to shame. So saying, the rapid Iris disappear’d, And thus her speech to Pallas Juno turn’d. Ah Pallas, progeny of Jove! henceforth No longer, in the cause of mortal men,500 Contend we against Jove. Perish or live Grecians or Trojans as he wills; let him Dispose the order of his own concerns, And judge between them, as of right he may. So saying, she turn’d the coursers; them the Hours505 Released, and to ambrosial mangers bound, Then thrust their chariot to the luminous wall. They, mingling with the Gods, on golden thrones Dejected sat, and Jove from Ida borne Reach’d the Olympian heights, seat of the Gods.510 His steeds the glorious King of Ocean loosed, And thrust the chariot, with its veil o’erspread. Into its station at the altar’s side. Then sat the Thunderer on his throne of gold Himself, and the huge mountain shook. Meantime515 Juno and Pallas, seated both apart, Spake not or question’d him. Their mute reserve He noticed, conscious of the cause, and said. Juno and Pallas, wherefore sit ye sad? Not through fatigue by glorious fight incurr’d520 And slaughter of the Trojans whom ye hate. Mark now the difference. Not the Gods combined Should have constrain’d me back, till all my force, Superior as it is, had fail’d, and all My fortitude. But ye, ere ye beheld525 The wonders of the field, trembling retired. And ye did well—Hear what had else befallen. My bolts had found you both, and ye had reach’d, In your own chariot borne, the Olympian height, Seat of the blest Immortals, never more.530 He ended; Juno and Minerva heard Low murmuring deep disgust, and side by side Devising sat calamity to Troy. Minerva, through displeasure against Jove, Nought utter’d, for her bosom boil’d with rage;535 But Juno check’d not hers, who thus replied. What word hath pass’d thy lips, Jove most severe? We know thy force resistless; yet our hearts Feel not the less when we behold the Greeks Exhausting all the sorrows of their lot.540 If thou command, we doubtless will abstain From battle, yet such counsel to the Greeks Suggesting still, as may in part effect Their safety, lest thy wrath consume them all. Then answer, thus, cloud-gatherer Jove return’d.545 Look forth, imperial Juno, if thou wilt, To-morrow at the blush of earliest dawn, And thou shalt see Saturn’s almighty son The Argive host destroying far and wide. For Hector’s fury shall admit no pause550 Till he have roused Achilles, in that day When at the ships, in perilous straits, the hosts Shall wage fierce battle for Patroclus slain. Such is the voice of fate. But, as for thee— Withdraw thou to the confines of the abyss555 Where Saturn and Iäpetus retired, Exclusion sad endure from balmy airs And from the light of morn, hell-girt around, I will not call thee thence. No. Should thy rage Transport thee thither, there thou may’st abide,560 There sullen nurse thy disregarded spleen Obstinate as thou art, and void of shame. He ended; to whom Juno nought replied. And now the radiant Sun in Ocean sank, Drawing night after him o’er all the earth;565 Night, undesired by Troy, but to the Greeks Thrice welcome for its interposing gloom. Then Hector on the river’s brink fast by The Grecian fleet, where space he found unstrew’d With carcases convened the Chiefs of Troy.570 They, there dismounting, listen’d to the words Of Hector Jove-beloved; he grasp’d a spear In length eleven cubits, bright its head Of brass, and color’d with a ring of gold. He lean’d on it, and ardent thus began.575 Trojans, Dardanians, and allies of Troy! I hoped, this evening (every ship consumed, And all the Grecians slain) to have return’d To wind-swept Ilium. But the shades of night Have intervened, and to the night they owe,580 In chief, their whole fleet’s safety and their own. Now, therefore, as the night enjoins, all take Needful refreshment. Your high-mettled steeds Release, lay food before them, and in haste Drive hither from the city fatted sheep585 And oxen; bring ye from your houses bread, Make speedy purchase of heart-cheering wine, And gather fuel plenteous; that all night, E’en till Aurora, daughter of the morn Shall look abroad, we may with many fires590 Illume the skies; lest even in the night, Launching, they mount the billows and escape. Beware that they depart not unannoy’d, But, as he leaps on board, give each a wound With shaft or spear, which he shall nurse at home.595 So shall the nations fear us, and shall vex With ruthless war Troy’s gallant sons no more. Next, let the heralds, ministers of Jove, Loud notice issue that the boys well-grown, And ancients silver-hair’d on the high towers600 Built by the Gods, keep watch; on every hearth In Troy, let those of the inferior sex Make sprightly blaze, and place ye there a guard Sufficient, lest in absence of the troops An ambush enter, and surprise the town.605 Act thus, ye dauntless Trojans; the advice Is wholesome, and shall serve the present need, And so much for the night; ye shall be told The business of the morn when morn appears. It is my prayer to Jove and to all heaven610 (Not without hope) that I may hence expel These dogs, whom Ilium’s unpropitious fates Have wafted hither in their sable barks. But we will also watch this night, ourselves, And, arming with the dawn, will at their ships615 Give them brisk onset. Then shall it appear If Diomede the brave shall me compel Back to our walls, or I, his arms blood-stain’d, Torn from his breathless body, bear away. To-morrow, if he dare but to abide620 My lance, he shall not want occasion meet For show of valor. But much more I judge That the next rising sun shall see him slain With no few friends around him. Would to heaven! I were as sure to ’scape the blight of age625 And share their honors with the Gods above, As comes the morrow fraught with wo to Greece. So Hector, whom his host with loud acclaim All praised. Then each his sweating steeds released, And rein’d them safely at his chariot-side.630 And now from Troy provision large they brought, Oxen, and sheep, with store of wine and bread, And fuel much was gather’d. [16]Next the Gods With sacrifice they sought, and from the plain Upwafted by the winds the smoke aspired635 Savoury, but unacceptable to those Above; such hatred in their hearts they bore To Priam, to the people of the brave Spear-practised Priam, and to sacred Troy. Big with great purposes and proud, they sat,640 Not disarray’d, but in fair form disposed Of even ranks, and watch’d their numerous fires, As when around the clear bright moon, the stars Shine in full splendor, and the winds are hush’d, The groves, the mountain-tops, the headland-heights645 Stand all apparent, not a vapor streaks The boundless blue, but ether open’d wide All glitters, and the shepherd’s heart is cheer’d;[17] So numerous seem’d those fires the bank between Of Xanthus, blazing, and the fleet of Greece,650 In prospect all of Troy; a thousand fires, Each watch’d by fifty warriors seated near. The steeds beside the chariots stood, their corn Chewing, and waiting till the golden-throned Aurora should restore the light of day.655
IX. ARGUMENT OF THE NINTH BOOK
By advice of Nestor, Agamemnon sends Ulysses, Phœnix, and Ajax to the tent of Achilles with proposals of reconciliation. They execute their commission, but without effect. Phœnix remains with Achilles; Ulysses and Ajax return.
Book IX
So watch’d the Trojan host; but thoughts of flight, Companions of chill fear, from heaven infused, Possess’d the Grecians; every leader’s heart Bled, pierced with anguish insupportable. As when two adverse winds blowing from Thrace,5 Boreas and Zephyrus, the fishy Deep Vex sudden, all around, the sable flood High curl’d, flings forth the salt weed on the shore Such tempest rent the mind of every Greek. Forth stalk’d Atrides with heart-riving wo10 Transfixt; he bade his heralds call by name Each Chief to council, but without the sound Of proclamation; and that task himself Among the foremost sedulous perform’d. The sad assembly sat; when weeping fast15 As some deep[1] fountain pours its rapid stream Down from the summit of a lofty rock, King Agamemnon in the midst arose, And, groaning, the Achaians thus address’d. Friends, counsellors and leaders of the Greeks!20 In dire perplexity Saturnian Jove Involves me, cruel; he assured me erst, And solemnly, that I should not return Till I had wasted wall-encircled Troy; But now (ah fraudulent and foul reverse!)25 Commands me back inglorious to the shores Of distant Argos, with diminish’d troops. So stands the purpose of almighty Jove, Who many a citadel hath laid in dust, And shall hereafter, matchless in his power.30 Haste therefore. My advice is, that we all Fly with our fleet into our native land, For wide-built Ilium shall not yet be ours. He ceased, and all sat silent; long the sons Of Greece, o’erwhelm’d with sorrow, silent sat,35 When thus, at last, bold Diomede began. Atrides! foremost of the Chiefs I rise To contravert thy purpose ill-conceived, And with such freedom as the laws, O King! Of consultation and debate allow.40 Hear patient. Thou hast been thyself the first Who e’er reproach’d me in the public ear As one effeminate and slow to fight; How truly, let both young and old decide. The son of wily Saturn hath to thee45 Given, and refused; he placed thee high in power, Gave thee to sway the sceptre o’er us all, But courage gave thee not, his noblest gift.[2] Art thou in truth persuaded that the Greeks Are pusillanimous, as thou hast said?50 If thy own fears impel thee to depart, Go thou, the way is open; numerous ships, Thy followers from Mycenæ, line the shore. But we, the rest, depart not, till the spoil Of Troy reward us. Or if all incline55 To seek again their native home, fly all; Myself and Sthenelus will persevere Till Ilium fall, for with the Gods we came. He ended; all the admiring sons of Greece With shouts the warlike Diomede extoll’d,60 When thus equestrian Nestor next began. Tydides, thou art eminently brave In fight, and all the princes of thy years Excell’st in council. None of all the Greeks Shall find occasion just to blame thy speech65 Or to gainsay; yet thou hast fallen short. What wonder? Thou art young; and were myself Thy father, thou should’st be my latest born. Yet when thy speech is to the Kings of Greece, It is well-framed and prudent. Now attend!70 Myself will speak, who have more years to boast Than thou hast seen, and will so closely scan The matter, that Atrides, our supreme, Himself shall have no cause to censure me. He is a wretch, insensible and dead75 To all the charities of social life, Whose pleasure is in civil broils alone.[3] But Night is urgent, and with Night’s demands Let all comply. Prepare we now repast, And let the guard be stationed at the trench80 Without the wall; the youngest shall supply That service; next, Atrides, thou begin (For thou art here supreme) thy proper task. Banquet the elders; it shall not disgrace Thy sovereignty, but shall become thee well.85 Thy tents are fill’d with wine which day by day Ships bring from Thrace; accommodation large Hast thou, and numerous is thy menial train. Thy many guests assembled, thou shalt hear Our counsel, and shalt choose the best; great need90 Have all Achaia’s sons, now, of advice Most prudent; for the foe, fast by the fleet Hath kindled numerous fires, which who can see Unmoved? This night shall save us or destroy.[4] He spake, whom all with full consent approved.95 Forth rush’d the guard well-arm’d; first went the son Of Nestor, Thrasymedes, valiant Chief; Then, sons of Mars, Ascalaphus advanced, And brave Iälmenus; whom follow’d next Deipyrus, Aphareus, Meriones,100 And Lycomedes, Creon’s son renown’d. Seven were the leaders of the guard, and each A hundred spearmen headed, young and bold. Between the wall and trench their seat they chose, There kindled fires, and each his food prepared.105 Atrides, then, to his pavilion led The thronging Chiefs of Greece, and at his board Regaled them; they with readiness and keen Dispatch of hunger shared the savory feast, And when nor thirst remain’d nor hunger more110 Unsated, Nestor then, arising first, Whose counsels had been ever wisest deem’d, Warm for the public interest, thus began. Atrides! glorious sovereign! King of men! Thou art my first and last, proem and close,115 For thou art mighty, and to thee are given From Jove the sceptre and the laws in charge, For the advancement of the general good. Hence, in peculiar, both to speak and hear Become thy duty, and the best advice,120 By whomsoever offer’d, to adopt And to perform, for thou art judge alone. I will promulge the counsel which to me Seems wisest; such, that other Grecian none Shall give thee better; neither is it new,125 But I have ever held it since the day When, most illustrious! thou wast pleased to take By force the maid Briseïs from the tent Of the enraged Achilles; not, in truth, By my advice, who did dissuade thee much;130 But thou, complying with thy princely wrath, Hast shamed a Hero whom themselves the Gods Delight to honor, and his prize detain’st. Yet even now contrive we, although late, By lenient gifts liberal, and by speech135 Conciliatory, to assuage his ire. Then answer’d Agamemnon, King of men. Old Chief! there is no falsehood in thy charge; I have offended, and confess the wrong. The warrior is alone a host, whom Jove140 Loves as he loves Achilles, for whose sake He hath Achaia’s thousands thus subdued. But if the impulse of a wayward mind Obeying, I have err’d, behold me, now, Prepared to soothe him with atonement large145 Of gifts inestimable, which by name I will propound in presence of you all. Seven tripods, never sullied yet with fire; Of gold ten talents; twenty cauldrons bright; Twelve coursers, strong, victorious in the race;150 No man possessing prizes such as mine Which they have won for me, shall feel the want Of acquisitions splendid or of gold. Seven virtuous female captives will I give Expert in arts domestic, Lesbians all,155 Whom, when himself took Lesbos, I received My chosen portion, passing womankind In perfect loveliness of face and form. These will I give, and will with these resign Her whom I took, Briseïs, with an oath160 Most solemn, that unconscious as she was Of my embraces, such I yield her his. All these I give him now; and if at length The Gods vouchsafe to us to overturn Priam’s great city, let him heap his ships165 With gold and brass, entering and choosing first When we shall share the spoil. Let him beside Choose twenty from among the maids of Troy, Helen except, loveliest of all their sex. And if once more, the rich milk-flowing land170 We reach of Argos, he shall there become My son-in-law, and shall enjoy like state With him whom I in all abundance rear, My only son Orestes. At my home I have three daughters; let him thence conduct175 To Phthia, her whom he shall most approve. Chrysothemis shall be his bride, or else Laodice; or if she please him more, Iphianassa; and from him I ask No dower;[5] myself will such a dower bestow180 As never father on his child before. Seven fair well-peopled cities I will give Cardamyle and Enope, and rich In herbage, Hira; Pheræ stately-built, And for her depth of pasturage renown’d185 Antheia; proud Æpeia’s lofty towers, And Pedasus impurpled dark with vines. All these are maritime, and on the shore They stand of Pylus, by a race possess’d Most rich in flocks and herds, who tributes large,190 And gifts presenting to his sceptred hand, Shall hold him high in honor as a God. These will I give him if from wrath he cease. Let him be overcome. Pluto alone Is found implacable and deaf to prayer,195 Whom therefore of all Gods men hate the most. My power is greater, and my years than his More numerous, therefore let him yield to me. To him Gerenian Nestor thus replied. Atrides! glorious sovereign! King of men!200 No sordid gifts, or to be view’d with scorn, Givest thou the Prince Achilles. But away! Send chosen messengers, who shall the son Of Peleus, instant, in his tent address. Myself will choose them, be it theirs to obey.205 Let Phœnix lead, Jove loves him. Be the next Huge Ajax; and the wise Ulysses third. Of heralds, Odius and Eurybates Shall them attend. Bring water for our hands; Give charge that every tongue abstain from speech210 Portentous, and propitiate Jove by prayer. He spake, and all were pleased. The heralds pour’d Pure water on their hands;[6] attendant youths The beakers crown’d, and wine from right to left Distributed to all. Libation made,215 All drank, and in such measure as they chose, Then hasted forth from Agamemnon’s tent. Gerenian Nestor at their side them oft Instructed, each admonishing by looks Significant, and motion of his eyes,220 But most Ulysses, to omit no means By which Achilles likeliest might be won. Along the margin of the sounding deep They pass’d, to Neptune, compasser of earth, Preferring vows ardent with numerous prayers,225 That they might sway with ease the mighty mind Of fierce Æacides. And now they reach’d The station where his Myrmidons abode. Him solacing they found his heart with notes Struck from his silver-framed harmonious lyre;230 Among the spoils he found it when he sack’d Eëtion’s city; with that lyre his cares He sooth’d, and glorious heroes were his theme.[7] Patroclus silent sat, and he alone, Before him, on Æacides intent,235 Expecting still when he should cease to sing. The messengers advanced (Ulysses first) Into his presence; at the sight, his harp Still in his hand, Achilles from his seat Started astonish’d; nor with less amaze240 Patroclus also, seeing them, arose. Achilles seized their hands, and thus he spake.[8]
Hail friends! ye all are welcome. Urgent cause Hath doubtless brought you, whom I dearest hold (Though angry still) of all Achaia’s host.245 So saying, he introduced them, and on seats Placed them with purple arras overspread, Then thus bespake Patroclus standing nigh. Son of Menætius! bring a beaker more Capacious, and replenish it with wine250 Diluted[9] less; then give to each his cup; For dearer friends than these who now arrive My roof beneath, or worthier, have I none. He ended, and Patroclus quick obey’d, Whom much he loved. Achilles, then, himself255 Advancing near the fire an ample[10] tray, Spread goats’ flesh on it, with the flesh of sheep And of a fatted brawn; of each a chine. Automedon attending held them fast, While with sharp steel Achilles from the bone260 Sliced thin the meat, then pierced it with the spits. Meantime the godlike Menætiades Kindled fierce fire, and when the flame declined, Raked wide the embers, laid the meat to roast, And taking sacred salt from the hearth-side265 Where it was treasured, shower’d it o’er the feast. When all was finish’d, and the board set forth, Patroclus furnish’d it around with bread In baskets, and Achilles served the guests. Beside the tent-wall, opposite, he sat270 To the divine Ulysses; first he bade Patroclus make oblation; he consign’d The consecrated morsel to the fire, And each, at once, his savoury mess assail’d. When neither edge of hunger now they felt275 Nor thirsted longer, Ajax with a nod Made sign to Phœnix, which Ulysses mark’d, And charging high his cup, drank to his host. Health to Achilles! hospitable cheer And well prepared, we want not at the board280 Of royal Agamemnon, or at thine, For both are nobly spread; but dainties now, Or plenteous boards, are little our concern.[11] Oh godlike Chief! tremendous ills we sit Contemplating with fear, doubtful if life285 Or death, with the destruction of our fleet, Attend us, unless thou put on thy might. For lo! the haughty Trojans, with their friends Call’d from afar, at the fleet-side encamp, Fast by the wall, where they have kindled fires290 Numerous, and threaten that no force of ours Shall check their purposed inroad on the ships. Jove grants them favorable signs from heaven, Bright lightnings; Hector glares revenge, with rage Infuriate, and by Jove assisted, heeds295 Nor God nor man, but prays the morn to rise That he may hew away our vessel-heads, Burn all our fleet with fire, and at their sides Slay the Achaians struggling in the smoke. Horrible are my fears lest these his threats300 The Gods accomplish, and it be our doom To perish here, from Argos far remote. Up, therefore! if thou canst, and now at last The weary sons of all Achaia save From Trojan violence. Regret, but vain,305 Shall else be thine hereafter, when no cure Of such great ill, once suffer’d, can be found. Thou therefore, seasonably kind, devise Means to preserve from such disast’rous fate The Grecians. Ah, my friend! when Peleus thee310 From Phthia sent to Agamemnon’s aid, On that same day he gave thee thus in charge. “Juno, my son, and Pallas, if they please, Can make thee valiant; but thy own big heart Thyself restrain. Sweet manners win respect.315 Cease from pernicious strife, and young and old Throughout the host shall honor thee the more.” Such was thy father’s charge, which thou, it seems, Remember’st not. Yet even now thy wrath Renounce; be reconciled; for princely gifts320 Atrides gives thee if thy wrath subside. Hear, if thou wilt, and I will tell thee all, How vast the gifts which Agamemnon made By promise thine, this night within his tent. Seven tripods never sullied yet with fire;325 Of gold ten talents; twenty cauldrons bright; Twelve steeds strong-limb’d, victorious in the race; No man possessing prizes such as those Which they have won for him, shall feel the want Of acquisitions splendid, or of gold.330 Seven virtuous female captives he will give, Expert in arts domestic, Lesbians all, Whom when thou conquer’dst Lesbos, he received His chosen portion, passing woman-kind In perfect loveliness of face and form.335 These will he give, and will with these resign Her whom he took, Briseïs, with an oath Most solemn, that unconscious as she was Of his embraces, such he yields her back. All these he gives thee now! and if at length340 The Gods vouchsafe to us to overturn Priam’s great city, thou shalt heap thy ships With gold and brass, entering and choosing first, When we shall share the spoil; and shalt beside Choose twenty from among the maids of Troy,345 Helen except, loveliest of all their sex. And if once more the rich milk-flowing land We reach of Argos, thou shalt there become His son-in-law, and shalt enjoy like state With him, whom he in all abundance rears,350 His only son Orestes. In his house He hath three daughters; thou may’st home conduct To Phthia, her whom thou shalt most approve. Chrysothemis shall be thy bride; or else Laodice; or if she please thee more355 Iphianassa; and from thee he asks No dower; himself will such a dower bestow As never father on his child before. Seven fair well-peopled cities will he give; Cardamyle and Enope; and rich360 In herbage, Hira; Pheræ stately-built, And for her depth of pasturage renown’d, Antheia; proud Æpeia’s lofty towers, And Pedasus impurpled dark with vines. All these are maritime, and on the shore365 They stand of Pylus, by a race possess’d Most rich in flocks and herds, who tribute large And gifts presenting to thy sceptred hand, Shall hold thee high in honor as a God. These will he give thee, if thy wrath subside.370 But should’st thou rather in thine heart the more Both Agamemnon and his gifts detest, Yet oh compassionate the afflicted host Prepared to adore thee. Thou shalt win renown Among the Grecians that shall never die.375 Now strike at Hector. He is here;—himself Provokes thee forth; madness is in his heart, And in his rage he glories that our ships Have hither brought no Grecian brave as he. Then thus Achilles matchless in the race.380 Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d! I must with plainness speak my fixt resolve Unalterable; lest I hear from each The same long murmur’d melancholy tale. For I abhor the man, not more the gates385 Of hell itself, whose words belie his heart. So shall not mine. My judgment undisguised Is this; that neither Agamemnon me Nor all the Greeks shall move; for ceaseless toil Wins here no thanks; one recompense awaits390 The sedentary and the most alert, The brave and base in equal honor stand, And drones and heroes fall unwept alike. I after all my labors, who exposed My life continual in the field, have earn’d395 No very sumptuous prize. As the poor bird Gives to her unfledged brood a morsel gain’d After long search, though wanting it herself, So I have worn out many sleepless nights, And waded deep through many a bloody day400 In battle for their wives.[12] I have destroy’d Twelve cities with my fleet, and twelve, save one, On foot contending in the fields of Troy. From all these cities, precious spoils I took Abundant, and to Agamemnon’s hand405 Gave all the treasure. He within his ships Abode the while, and having all received, Little distributed, and much retained; He gave, however, to the Kings and Chiefs A portion, and they keep it. Me alone410 Of all the Grecian host he hath despoil’d; My bride, my soul’s delight is in his hands, And let him, couch’d with her, enjoy his fill Of dalliance. What sufficient cause, what need Have the Achaians to contend with Troy?415 Why hath Atrides gather’d such a host, And led them hither? Was’t not for the sake Of beauteous Helen? And of all mankind Can none be found who love their proper wives But the Atridæ? There is no good man420 Who loves not, guards not, and with care provides For his own wife, and, though in battle won, I loved the fair Briseïs at my heart. But having dispossess’d me of my prize So foully, let him not essay me now,425 For I am warn’d, and he shall not prevail. With thee and with thy peers let him advise, Ulysses! how the fleet may likeliest ’scape Yon hostile fires; full many an arduous task He hath accomplished without aid of mine;430 So hath he now this rampart and the trench Which he hath digg’d around it, and with stakes Planted contiguous—puny barriers all To hero-slaughtering Hector’s force opposed. While I the battle waged, present myself435 Among the Achaians, Hector never fought Far from his walls, but to the Scæan gate Advancing and the beech-tree, there remain’d. Once, on that spot he met me, and my arm Escaped with difficulty even there.440 But, since I feel myself not now inclined To fight with noble Hector, yielding first To Jove due worship, and to all the Gods, To-morrow will I launch, and give my ships Their lading. Look thou forth at early dawn,445 And, if such spectacle delight thee aught, Thou shalt behold me cleaving with my prows The waves of Hellespont, and all my crews Of lusty rowers active in their task. So shall I reach (if Ocean’s mighty God450 Prosper my passage) Phthia the deep-soil’d On the third day. I have possessions there, Which hither roaming in an evil hour I left abundant. I shall also hence Convey much treasure, gold and burnish’d brass,455 And glittering steel, and women passing fair My portion of the spoils. But he, your King, The prize he gave, himself resumed, And taunted at me. Tell him my reply, And tell it him aloud, that other Greeks460 May indignation feel like me, if arm’d Always in impudence, he seek to wrong Them also. Let him not henceforth presume, Canine and hard in aspect though he be, To look me in the face. I will not share465 His counsels, neither will I aid his works. Let it suffice him, that he wrong’d me once, Deceived me once, henceforth his glozing arts Are lost on me. But let him rot in peace Crazed as he is, and by the stroke of Jove470 Infatuate. I detest his gifts, and him So honor as the thing which most I scorn. And would he give me twenty times the worth Of this his offer, all the treasured heaps Which he possesses, or shall yet possess,475 All that Orchomenos within her walls, And all that opulent Egyptian Thebes Receives, the city with a hundred gates, Whence twenty thousand chariots rush to war, And would he give me riches as the sands,480 And as the dust of earth, no gifts from him Should soothe me, till my soul were first avenged For all the offensive license of his tongue. I will not wed the daughter of your Chief, Of Agamemnon. Could she vie in charms485 With golden Venus, had she all the skill Of blue-eyed Pallas, even so endow’d She were no bride for me. No. He may choose From the Achaians some superior Prince, One more her equal. Peleus, if the Gods490 Preserve me, and I safe arrive at home, Himself, ere long, shall mate me with a bride. In Hellas and in Phthia may be found Fair damsels many, daughters of the Chiefs Who guard our cities; I may choose of them,495 And make the loveliest of them all my own. There, in my country, it hath ever been My dearest purpose, wedded to a wife Of rank convenient, to enjoy in peace Such wealth as ancient Peleus hath acquired.500 For life, in my account, surpasses far In value all the treasures which report Ascribed to populous Ilium, ere the Greeks Arrived, and while the city yet had peace; Those also which Apollo’s marble shrine505 In rocky Pytho boasts. Fat flocks and beeves May be by force obtain’d, tripods and steeds Are bought or won, but if the breath of man Once overpass its bounds, no force arrests Or may constrain the unbodied spirit back.510 Me, as my silver-footed mother speaks Thetis, a twofold consummation waits. If still with battle I encompass Troy, I win immortal glory, but all hope Renounce of my return. If I return515 To my beloved country, I renounce The illustrious meed of glory, but obtain Secure and long immunity from death. And truly I would recommend to all To voyage homeward, for the fall as yet520 Ye shall not see of Ilium’s lofty towers, For that the Thunderer with uplifted arm Protects her, and her courage hath revived. Bear ye mine answer back, as is the part Of good ambassadors, that they may frame525 Some likelier plan, by which both fleet and host May be preserved; for, my resentment still Burning, this project is but premature. Let Phœnix stay with us, and sleep this night Within my tent, that, if he so incline,530 He may to-morrow in my fleet embark, And hence attend me; but I leave him free. He ended; they astonish’d at his tone (For vehement he spake) sat silent all, Till Phœnix, aged warrior, at the last535 Gush’d into tears (for dread his heart o’erwhelm’d Lest the whole fleet should perish) and replied. If thou indeed have purposed to return, Noble Achilles! and such wrath retain’st That thou art altogether fixt to leave540 The fleet a prey to desolating fires, How then, my son! shall I at Troy abide Forlorn of thee? When Peleus, hoary Chief, Sent thee to Agamemnon, yet a child,[13] Unpractised in destructive fight, nor less545 Of councils ignorant, the schools in which Great minds are form’d, he bade me to the war Attend thee forth, that I might teach thee all, Both elocution and address in arms. Me therefore shalt thou not with my consent550 Leave here, my son! no, not would Jove himself Promise me, reaping smooth this silver beard, To make me downy-cheek’d as in my youth; Such as when erst from Hellas beauty-famed I fled, escaping from my father’s wrath555 Amyntor, son of Ormenus, who loved A beauteous concubine, and for her sake Despised his wife and persecuted me. My mother suppliant at my knees, with prayer Perpetual importuned me to embrace560 The damsel first, that she might loathe my sire. I did so; and my father soon possess’d With hot suspicion of the fact, let loose A storm of imprecation, in his rage Invoking all the Furies to forbid565 That ever son of mine should press his knees. Tartarian Jove[14] and dread Persephone Fulfill’d his curses; with my pointed spear I would have pierced his heart, but that my wrath Some Deity assuaged, suggesting oft570 What shame and obloquy I should incur, Known as a parricide through all the land. At length, so treated, I resolved to dwell No longer in his house. My friends, indeed, And all my kindred compass’d me around575 With much entreaty, wooing me to stay; Oxen and sheep they slaughter’d, many a plump Well-fatted brawn extended in the flames, And drank the old man’s vessels to the lees. Nine nights continual at my side they slept,580 While others watch’d by turns, nor were the fires Extinguish’d ever, one, beneath the porch Of the barr’d hall, and one that from within The vestibule illumed my chamber door. But when the tenth dark night at length arrived,585 Sudden the chamber doors bursting I flew That moment forth, and unperceived alike By guards and menial woman, leap’d the wall. Through spacious Hellas flying thence afar, I came at length to Phthia the deep-soil’d,590 Mother of flocks, and to the royal house Of Peleus; Peleus with a willing heart Receiving, loved me as a father loves His only son, the son of his old age, Inheritor of all his large demesnes.595 He made me rich; placed under my control A populous realm, and on the skirts I dwelt Of Phthia, ruling the Dolopian race. Thee from my soul, thou semblance of the Gods, I loved, and all illustrious as thou art,600 Achilles! such I made thee. For with me, Me only, would’st thou forth to feast abroad, Nor would’st thou taste thy food at home, till first I placed thee on my knees, with my own hand Thy viands carved and fed thee, and the wine605 Held to thy lips; and many a time, in fits Of infant frowardness, the purple juice Rejecting thou hast deluged all my vest, And fill’d my bosom. Oh, I have endured Much, and have also much perform’d for thee,610 Thus purposing, that since the Gods vouchsaf’d No son to me, thyself shouldst be my son, Godlike Achilles! who shouldst screen perchance From a foul fate my else unshelter’d age. Achilles! bid thy mighty spirit down.615 Thou shouldst not be thus merciless; the Gods, Although more honorable, and in power And virtue thy superiors, are themselves Yet placable; and if a mortal man Offend them by transgression of their laws,620 Libation, incense, sacrifice, and prayer, In meekness offer’d turn their wrath away. Prayers are Jove’s daughters,[15] wrinkled,[16] lame, slant-eyed, Which though far distant, yet with constant pace Follow Offence. Offence, robust of limb,625 And treading firm the ground, outstrips them all, And over all the earth before them runs Hurtful to man. They, following, heal the hurt. Received respectfully when they approach, They help us, and our prayers hear in return.630 But if we slight, and with obdurate heart Resist them, to Saturnian Jove they cry Against us, supplicating that Offence May cleave to us for vengeance of the wrong. Thou, therefore, O Achilles! honor yield635 To Jove’s own daughters, vanquished, as the brave Have ofttimes been, by honor paid to thee. For came not Agamemnon as he comes With gifts in hand, and promises of more Hereafter; burn’d his anger still the same,640 I would not move thee to renounce thy own, And to assist us, howsoe’er distress’d. But now, not only are his present gifts Most liberal, and his promises of more Such also, but these Princes he hath sent645 Charged with entreaties, thine especial friends, And chosen for that cause, from all the host. Slight not their embassy, nor put to shame Their intercession. We confess that once Thy wrath was unreprovable and just.650 Thus we have heard the heroes of old times Applauded oft, whose anger, though intense, Yet left them open to the gentle sway Of reason and conciliatory gifts. I recollect an ancient history,655 Which, since all here are friends, I will relate. The brave Ætolians and Curetes met Beneath the walls of Calydon, and fought With mutual slaughter; the Ætolian powers In the defence of Calydon the fair,660 And the Curetes bent to lay it waste: That strife Diana of the golden throne Kindled between them, with resentment fired That Oeneus had not in some fertile spot The first fruits of his harvest set apart665 To her; with hecatombs he entertained All the Divinities of heaven beside, And her alone, daughter of Jove supreme, Or through forgetfulness, or some neglect, Served not; omission careless and profane!670 She, progeny of Jove, Goddess shaft-arm’d, A savage boar bright-tusk’d in anger sent, Which haunting Oeneus’ fields much havoc made. Trees numerous on the earth in heaps he cast Uprooting them, with all their blossoms on.675 But Meleager, Oeneus’ son, at length Slew him, the hunters gathering and the hounds Of numerous cities; for a boar so vast Might not be vanquish’d by the power of few, And many to their funeral piles he sent.680 Then raised Diana clamorous dispute, And contest hot between them, all alike, Curetes and Ætolians fierce in arms The boar’s head claiming, and his bristly hide. So long as warlike Meleager fought,685 Ætolia prosper’d, nor with all their powers Could the Curetes stand before the walls. But when resentment once had fired the heart Of Meleager, which hath tumult oft Excited in the breasts of wisest men,690 (For his own mother had his wrath provoked Althæa) thenceforth with his wedded wife He dwelt, fair Cleopatra, close retired. She was Marpessa’s daughter, whom she bore To Idas, bravest warrior in his day695 Of all on earth. He fear’d not ’gainst the King Himself Apollo, for the lovely nymph Marpessa’s sake, his spouse, to bend his bow. Her, therefore, Idas and Marpessa named Thenceforth Alcyone, because the fate700 Of sad Alcyone Marpessa shared, And wept like her, by Phœbus forced away. Thus Meleager, tortured with the pangs Of wrath indulged, with Cleopatra dwelt, Vex’d that his mother cursed him; for, with grief705 Frantic, his mother importuned the Gods To avenge her slaughter’d brothers[17] on his head. Oft would she smite the earth, while on her knees Seated, she fill’d her bosom with her tears, And call’d on Pluto and dread Proserpine710 To slay her son; nor vain was that request, But by implacable Erynnis heard Roaming the shades of Erebus. Ere long The tumult and the deafening din of war Roar’d at the gates, and all the batter’d towers715 Resounded. Then the elders of the town Dispatch’d the high-priests of the Gods to plead With Meleager for his instant aid, With strong assurances of rich reward. Where Calydon afforded fattest soil720 They bade him choose to his own use a farm Of fifty measured acres, vineyard half, And half of land commodious for the plow. Him Oeneus also, warrior grey with age, Ascending to his chamber, and his doors725 Smiting importunate, with earnest prayers Assay’d to soften, kneeling to his son. Nor less his sisters woo’d him to relent, Nor less his mother; but in vain; he grew Still more obdurate. His companions last,730 The most esteem’d and dearest of his friends, The same suit urged, yet he persisted still Relentless, nor could even they prevail. But when the battle shook his chamber-doors And the Curetes climbing the high towers735 Had fired the spacious city, then with tears The beauteous Cleopatra, and with prayers Assail’d him; in his view she set the woes Numberless of a city storm’d—the men Slaughter’d, the city burnt to dust, the chaste740 Matrons with all their children dragg’d away. That dread recital roused him, and at length Issuing, he put his radiant armor on. Thus Meleager, gratifying first His own resentment from a fatal day745 Saved the Ætolians, who the promised gift Refused him, and his toils found no reward. But thou, my son, be wiser; follow thou No demon who would tempt thee to a course Like his; occasion more propitious far750 Smiles on thee now, than if the fleet were fired. Come, while by gifts invited, and receive From all the host, the honors of a God; For shouldst thou, by no gifts induced, at last Enter the bloody field, although thou chase755 The Trojans hence, yet less shall be thy praise. Then thus Achilles, matchless in the race. Phœnix, my guide, wise, noble and revered! I covet no such glory! the renown Ordain’d by Jove for me, is to resist760 All importunity to quit my ships While I have power to move, or breath to draw. Hear now, and mark me well. Cease thou from tears. Confound me not, pleading with sighs and sobs In Agamemnon’s cause; O love not him,765 Lest I renounce thee, who am now thy friend. Assist me rather, as thy duty bids, Him to afflict, who hath afflicted me, So shalt thou share my glory and my power. These shall report as they have heard, but here770 Rest thou this night, and with the rising morn We will decide, to stay or to depart. He ceased, and silent, by a nod enjoin’d Patroclus to prepare an easy couch For Phœnix, anxious to dismiss the rest775 Incontinent; when Ajax, godlike son Of Telamon, arising, thus began. Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d: Depart we now; for I perceive that end Or fruit of all our reasonings shall be none.780 It is expedient also that we bear Our answer back (unwelcome as it is) With all dispatch, for the assembled Greeks Expect us. Brave Achilles shuts a fire Within his breast; the kindness of his friends,785 And the respect peculiar by ourselves Shown to him, on his heart work no effect. Inexorable man! others accept Even for a brother slain, or for a son Due compensation;[18] the delinquent dwells790 Secure at home, and the receiver, soothed And pacified, represses his revenge. But thou, resentful of the loss of one, One virgin (such obduracy of heart The Gods have given thee) can’st not be appeased795 Yet we assign thee seven in her stead, The most distinguish’d of their sex, and add Large gifts beside. Ah then, at last relent! Respect thy roof; we are thy guests; we come Chosen from the multitude of all the Greeks,800 Beyond them all ambitious of thy love. To whom Achilles, swiftest of the swift. My noble friend, offspring of Telamon! Thou seem’st sincere, and I believe thee such. But at the very mention of the name805 Of Atreus’ son, who shamed me in the sight Of all Achaia’s host, bearing me down As I had been some vagrant at his door, My bosom boils. Return ye and report Your answer. I no thought will entertain810 Of crimson war, till the illustrious son Of warlike Priam, Hector, blood-embrued, Shall in their tents the Myrmidons assail Themselves, and fire my fleet. At my own ship, And at my own pavilion it may chance815 That even Hector’s violence shall pause.[19] He ended; they from massy goblets each Libation pour’d, and to the fleet their course Resumed direct, Ulysses at their head. Patroclus then his fellow-warriors bade,820 And the attendant women spread a couch For Phœnix; they the couch, obedient, spread With fleeces, with rich arras, and with flax Of subtlest woof. There hoary Phœnix lay In expectation of the sacred dawn.825 Meantime Achilles in the interior tent, With beauteous Diomeda by himself From Lesbos brought, daughter of Phorbas, lay. Patroclus opposite reposed, with whom Slept charming Iphis; her, when he had won830 The lofty towers of Scyros, the divine Achilles took, and on his friend bestow’d. But when those Chiefs at Agamemnon’s tent Arrived, the Greeks on every side arose With golden cups welcoming their return.835 All question’d them, but Agamemnon first. Oh worthy of Achaia’s highest praise, And her chief ornament, Ulysses, speak! Will he defend the fleet? or his big heart Indulging wrathful, doth he still refuse?840 To whom renown’d Ulysses thus replied. Atrides, Agamemnon, King of men! He his resentment quenches not, nor will, But burns with wrath the more, thee and thy gifts Rejecting both. He bids thee with the Greeks845 Consult by what expedient thou may’st save The fleet and people, threatening that himself Will at the peep of day launch all his barks, And counselling, beside, the general host To voyage homeward, for that end as yet850 Of Ilium wall’d to heaven, ye shall not find, Since Jove the Thunderer with uplifted arm Protects her, and her courage hath revived. Thus speaks the Chief, and Ajax is prepared, With the attendant heralds to report855 As I have said. But Phœnix in the tent Sleeps of Achilles, who his stay desired, That on the morrow, if he so incline, The hoary warrior may attend him hence Home to his country, but he leaves him free.860 He ended. They astonish’d at his tone (For vehement he spake) sat silent all. Long silent sat the afflicted sons of Greece, When thus the mighty Diomede began. Atrides, Agamemnon, King of men!865 Thy supplications to the valiant son Of Peleus, and the offer of thy gifts Innumerous, had been better far withheld. He is at all times haughty, and thy suit Hath but increased his haughtiness of heart870 Past bounds: but let him stay or let him go As he shall choose. He will resume the fight When his own mind shall prompt him, and the Gods Shall urge him forth. Now follow my advice. Ye have refresh’d your hearts with food and wine875 Which are the strength of man; take now repose. And when the rosy-finger’d morning fair Shall shine again, set forth without delay The battle, horse and foot, before the fleet, And where the foremost fight, fight also thou.880
He ended; all the Kings applauded warm His counsel, and the dauntless tone admired Of Diomede. Then, due libation made, Each sought his tent, and took the gift of sleep.
There is much in this book which is worthy of close attention. The consummate genius, the varied and versatile power, the eloquence, truth, and nature displayed in it, will always be admired. Perhaps there is no portion of the poem more remarkable for these attributes.—Felton.
X. ARGUMENT OF THE TENTH BOOK
Diomede and Ulysses enter the Trojan host by night, and slay Rhesus.
Book X
All night the leaders of the host of Greece Lay sunk in soft repose, all, save the Chief,[1] The son of Atreus; him from thought to thought Roving solicitous, no sleep relieved. As when the spouse of beauteous Juno, darts5 His frequent fires, designing heavy rain Immense, or hail-storm, or field-whitening snow, Or else wide-throated war calamitous, So frequent were the groans by Atreus’ son Heaved from his inmost heart, trembling with dread.10 For cast he but his eye toward the plain Of Ilium, there, astonish’d he beheld The city fronted with bright fires, and heard Pipes, and recorders, and the hum of war; But when again the Grecian fleet he view’d,15 And thought on his own people, then his hair Uprooted elevating to the Gods, He from his generous bosom groan’d again. At length he thus resolved; of all the Greeks To seek Neleian Nestor first, with whom20 He might, perchance, some plan for the defence Of the afflicted Danaï devise. Rising, he wrapp’d his tunic to his breast, And to his royal feet unsullied bound His sandals; o’er his shoulders, next, he threw25 Of amplest size a lion’s tawny skin That swept his footsteps, dappled o’er with blood, Then took his spear. Meantime, not less appall’d Was Menelaus, on whose eyelids sleep Sat not, lest the Achaians for his sake30 O’er many waters borne, and now intent On glorious deeds, should perish all at Troy. With a pard’s spotted hide his shoulders broad He mantled over; to his head he raised His brazen helmet, and with vigorous hand35 Grasping his spear, forth issued to arouse His brother, mighty sovereign of the host, And by the Grecians like a God revered. He found him at his galley’s stern, his arms Assuming radiant; welcome he arrived40 To Agamemnon, whom he thus address’d. Why arm’st thou, brother? Wouldst thou urge abroad Some trusty spy into the Trojan camp?[2] I fear lest none so hardy shall be found As to adventure, in the dead still night,45 So far, alone; valiant indeed were he! To whom great Agamemnon thus replied. Heaven-favor’d Menelaus! We have need, Thou and myself, of some device well-framed, Which both the Grecians and the fleet of Greece50 May rescue, for the mind of Jove hath changed, And Hector’s prayers alone now reach his ear. I never saw, nor by report have learn’d From any man, that ever single chief Such awful wonders in one day perform’d55 As he with ease against the Greeks, although Nor from a Goddess sprung nor from a God. Deeds he hath done, which, as I think, the Greeks Shall deep and long lament, such numerous ills Achaia’s host hath at his hands sustain’d.60 But haste, begone, and at their several ships Call Ajax and Idomeneus; I go To exhort the noble Nestor to arise, That he may visit, if he so incline, The chosen band who watch, and his advice65 Give them; for him most prompt they will obey, Whose son, together with Meriones, Friend of Idomeneus, controls them all, Entrusted by ourselves with that command. Him answer’d Menelaus bold in arms.70 Explain thy purpose. Wouldst thou that I wait Thy coming, there, or thy commands to both Given, that I incontinent return? To whom the Sovereign of the host replied. There stay; lest striking into different paths75 (For many passes intersect the camp) We miss each other; summon them aloud Where thou shalt come; enjoin them to arise; Call each by his hereditary name, Honoring all. Beware of manners proud,80 For we ourselves must labor, at our birth By Jove ordain’d to suffering and to toil. So saying, he his brother thence dismiss’d Instructed duly, and himself, his steps Turned to the tent of Nestor. Him he found85 Amid his sable galleys in his tent Reposing soft, his armor at his side, Shield, spears, bright helmet, and the broider’d belt Which, when the Senior arm’d led forth his host To fight, he wore; for he complied not yet90 With the encroachments of enfeebling age. He raised his head, and on his elbow propp’d, Questioning Agamemnon, thus began. But who art thou, who thus alone, the camp Roamest, amid the darkness of the night,95 While other mortals sleep? Comest thou abroad Seeking some friend or soldier of the guard? Speak—come not nearer mute. What is thy wish? To whom the son of Atreus, King of men. Oh Nestor, glory of the Grecian name,100 Offspring of Neleus! thou in me shalt know The son of Atreus, Agamemnon, doom’d By Jove to toil, while life shall yet inform These limbs, or I shall draw the vital air. I wander thus, because that on my lids105 Sweet sleep sits not, but war and the concerns Of the Achaians occupy my soul. Terrible are the fears which I endure For these my people; such as supersede All thought; my bosom can no longer hold110 My throbbing heart, and tremors shake my limbs. But if thy mind, more capable, project Aught that may profit us (for thee it seems Sleep also shuns) arise, and let us both Visit the watch, lest, haply, overtoil’d115 They yield to sleep, forgetful of their charge. The foe is posted near, and may intend (None knows his purpose) an assault by night. To him Gerenian Nestor thus replied. Illustrious Agamemnon, King of men!120 Deep-planning Jove the imaginations proud Of Hector will not ratify, nor all His sanguine hopes effectuate; in his turn He also (fierce Achilles once appeased) Shall trouble feel, and haply, more than we.125 But with all readiness I will arise And follow thee, that we may also rouse Yet others; Diomede the spear-renown’d, Ulysses, the swift Ajax, and the son Of Phyleus, valiant Meges. It were well130 Were others also visited and call’d, The godlike Ajax, and Idomeneus, Whose ships are at the camp’s extremest bounds. But though I love thy brother and revere, And though I grieve e’en thee, yet speak I must,135 And plainly censure him, that thus he sleeps And leaves to thee the labor, who himself Should range the host, soliciting the Chiefs Of every band, as utmost need requires. Him answer’d Agamemnon, King of men.140 Old warrior, times there are, when I could wish Myself thy censure of him, for in act He is not seldom tardy and remiss. Yet is not sluggish indolence the cause, No, nor stupidity, but he observes145 Me much, expecting till I lead the way. But he was foremost now, far more alert This night than I, and I have sent him forth Already, those to call whom thou hast named. But let us hence, for at the guard I trust150 To find them, since I gave them so in charge.[3] To whom the brave Gerenian Chief replied. Him none will censure, or his will dispute, Whom he shall waken and exhort to rise. So saying, he bound his corselet to his breast,155 His sandals fair to his unsullied feet, And fastening by its clasps his purple cloak Around him, double and of shaggy pile, Seized, next, his sturdy spear headed with brass, And issued first into the Grecian fleet.160 There, Nestor, brave Gerenian, with a voice Sonorous roused the godlike counsellor From sleep, Ulysses; the alarm came o’er His startled ear, forth from his tent he sprang Sudden, and of their coming, quick, inquired.165 Why roam ye thus the camp and fleet alone In darkness? by what urgent need constrain’d? To whom the hoary Pylian thus replied. Laertes’ noble son, for wiles renown’d! Resent it not, for dread is our distress.170 Come, therefore, and assist us to convene Yet others, qualified to judge if war Be most expedient, or immediate flight. He ended, and regaining, quick, his tent, Ulysses slung his shield, then coming forth175 Join’d them. The son of Tydeus first they sought. Him sleeping arm’d before his tent they found, Encompass’d by his friends also asleep; His head each rested on his shield, and each Had planted on its nether point[4] erect180 His spear beside him; bright their polish’d heads, As Jove’s own lightning glittered from afar. Himself, the Hero, slept. A wild bull’s hide Was spread beneath him, and on arras tinged With splendid purple lay his head reclined.185 Nestor, beside him standing, with his heel Shook him, and, urgent, thus the Chief reproved. Awake, Tydides! wherefore givest the night Entire to balmy slumber? Hast not heard How on the rising ground beside the fleet190 The Trojans sit, small interval between? He ceased; then up sprang Diomede alarm’d Instant, and in wing’d accents thus replied. Old wakeful Chief! thy toils are never done. Are there not younger of the sons of Greece,195 Who ranging in all parts the camp, might call The Kings to council? But no curb controls Or can abate activity like thine. To whom Gerenian Nestor in return. My friend! thou hast well spoken. I have sons,200 And they are well deserving; I have here A numerous people also, one of whom Might have sufficed to call the Kings of Greece. But such occasion presses now the host As hath not oft occurr’d; the overthrow205 Complete, or full deliverance of us all, In balance hangs, poised on a razor’s edge. But haste, and if thy pity of my toils Be such, since thou art younger, call, thyself, Ajax the swift, and Meges to the guard.210 Then Diomede a lion’s tawny skin Around him wrapp’d, dependent to his heels, And, spear in hand, set forth. The Hero call’d Those two, and led them whither Nestor bade. They, at the guard arrived, not sleeping found215 The captains of the guard, but sitting all In vigilant posture with their arms prepared. As dogs that, careful, watch the fold by night, Hearing some wild beast in the woods,[5] which hounds And hunters with tumultuous clamor drive220 Down from the mountain-top, all sleep forego; So, sat not on their eyelids gentle sleep That dreadful night, but constant to the plain At every sound of Trojan feet they turn’d. The old Chief joyful at the sight, in terms225 Of kind encouragement them thus address’d. So watch, my children! and beware that sleep Invade none here, lest all become a prey. So saying, he traversed with quick pace the trench By every Chief whom they had thither call’d230 Attended, with whom Nestor’s noble son Went, and Meriones, invited both To join their consultation. From the foss Emerging, in a vacant space they sat, Unstrew’d with bodies of the slain, the spot,235 Whence furious Hector, after slaughter made Of numerous Greeks, night falling, had return’d. There seated, mutual converse close they held, And Nestor, brave Gerenian, thus began.
Oh friends! hath no Achaian here such trust240 In his own prowess, as to venture forth Among yon haughty Trojans? He, perchance, Might on the borders of their host surprise Some wandering adversary, or might learn Their consultations, whether they propose245 Here to abide in prospect of the fleet, Or, satiate with success against the Greeks So signal, meditate retreat to Troy. These tidings gain’d, should he at last return Secure, his recompense will be renown250 Extensive as the heavens, and fair reward. From every leader of the fleet, his gift Shall be a sable[6] ewe, and sucking lamb, Rare acquisition! and at every board And sumptuous banquet, he shall be a guest.255 He ceased, and all sat silent, when at length The mighty son of Tydeus thus replied. Me, Nestor, my courageous heart incites To penetrate into the neighbor host Of enemies; but went some other Chief260 With me, far greater would my comfort prove, And I should dare the more. Two going forth, One quicker sees than other, and suggests Prudent advice; but he who single goes, Mark whatsoe’er he may, the occasion less265 Improves, and his expedients soon exhausts. He ended, and no few willing arose To go with Diomede. Servants of Mars Each Ajax willing stood; willing as they Meriones; most willing Nestor’s son;270 Willing the brother of the Chief of all, Nor willing less Ulysses to explore The host of Troy, for he possess’d a heart Delighted ever with some bold exploit. Then Agamemnon, King of men, began.275 Now Diomede, in whom my soul delights! Choose whom thou wilt for thy companion; choose The fittest here; for numerous wish to go. Leave not through deference to another’s rank, The more deserving, nor prefer a worse,280 Respecting either pedigree or power. Such speech he interposed, fearing his choice Of Menelaus; then, renown’d in arms The son of Tydeus, rising, spake again. Since, then, ye bid me my own partner choose285 Free from constraint, how can I overlook Divine Ulysses, whose courageous heart With such peculiar cheerfulness endures Whatever toils, and whom Minerva loves? Let him attend me, and through fire itself290 We shall return; for none is wise as he.[7] To him Ulysses, hardy Chief, replied. Tydides! neither praise me much, nor blame, For these are Grecians in whose ears thou speak’st, And know me well. But let us hence! the night295 Draws to a close; day comes apace; the stars Are far advanced; two portions have elapsed Of darkness, but the third is yet entire. So they; then each his dreadful arms put on. To Diomede, who at the fleet had left300 His own, the dauntless Thrasymedes gave His shield and sword two-edged, and on his head Placed, crestless, unadorn’d, his bull-skin casque. It was a stripling’s helmet, such as youths Scarce yet confirm’d in lusty manhood, wear.305 Meriones with quiver, bow and sword Furnish’d Ulysses, and his brows enclosed In his own casque of hide with many a thong Well braced within;[8] guarded it was without With boar’s teeth ivory-white inherent firm310 On all sides, and with woolen head-piece lined. That helmet erst Autolycus[9] had brought From Eleon, city of Amyntor son Of Hormenus, where he the solid walls Bored through, clandestine, of Amyntor’s house.315 He on Amphidamas the prize bestow’d In Scandia;[10] from Amphidamas it pass’d To Molus as a hospitable pledge; He gave it to Meriones his son, And now it guarded shrewd Ulysses’ brows.320 Both clad in arms terrific, forth they sped, Leaving their fellow Chiefs, and as they went A heron, by command of Pallas, flew Close on the right beside them; darkling they Discern’d him not, but heard his clanging plumes.[11]325 Ulysses in the favorable sign Exulted, and Minerva thus invoked.[12]
Oh hear me, daughter of Jove Ægis-arm’d! My present helper in all straits, whose eye Marks all my ways, oh with peculiar care330 Now guard me, Pallas! grant that after toil Successful, glorious, such as long shall fill With grief the Trojans, we may safe return And with immortal honors to the fleet. Valiant Tydides, next, his prayer preferr’d.335 Hear also me, Jove’s offspring by the toils Of war invincible! me follow now As my heroic father erst to Thebes Thou followedst, Tydeus; by the Greeks dispatch’d Ambassador, he left the mail-clad host340 Beside Asopus, and with terms of peace Entrusted, enter’d Thebes; but by thine aid Benevolent, and in thy strength, perform’d Returning, deeds of terrible renown. Thus, now, protect me also! In return345 I vow an offering at thy shrine, a young Broad-fronted heifer, to the yoke as yet Untamed, whose horns I will incase with gold. Such prayer they made, and Pallas heard well pleased. Their orisons ended to the daughter dread350 Of mighty Jove, lion-like they advanced Through shades of night, through carnage, arms and blood. Nor Hector to his gallant host indulged Sleep, but convened the leaders; leader none Or senator of all his host he left355 Unsummon’d, and his purpose thus promulged. Where is the warrior who for rich reward, Such as shall well suffice him, will the task Adventurous, which I propose, perform? A chariot with two steeds of proudest height,360 Surpassing all in the whole fleet of Greece Shall be his portion, with immortal praise, Who shall the well-appointed ships approach Courageous, there to learn if yet a guard As heretofore, keep them, or if subdued365 Beneath us, the Achaians flight intend, And worn with labor have no will to watch. So Hector spake, but answer none return’d. There was a certain Trojan, Dolon named,[13] Son of Eumedes herald of the Gods,370 Rich both in gold and brass, but in his form Unsightly; yet the man was swift of foot, Sole brother of five sisters; he his speech To Hector and the Trojans thus address’d. My spirit, Hector, prompts me, and my mind375 Endued with manly vigor, to approach Yon gallant ships, that I may tidings hear. But come. For my assurance, lifting high Thy sceptre, swear to me, for my reward, The horses and the brazen chariot bright380 Which bear renown’d Achilles o’er the field. I will not prove a useless spy, nor fall Below thy best opinion; pass I will Their army through, till I shall reach the ship Of Agamemnon, where the Chiefs, perchance,385 Now sit consulting, or to fight, or fly.[14]
Then raising high his sceptre, Hector sware Know, Jove himself, Juno’s high-thundering spouse! That Trojan none shall in that chariot ride By those steeds drawn, save Dolon; on my oath390 I make them thine; enjoy them evermore. He said, and falsely sware, yet him assured. Then Dolon, instant, o’er his shoulder slung His bow elastic, wrapp’d himself around With a grey wolf-skin, to his head a casque395 Adjusted, coated o’er with ferret’s felt, And seizing his sharp javelin, from the host Turn’d right toward the fleet, but was ordain’d To disappoint his sender, and to bring No tidings thence. The throng of Trojan steeds400 And warriors left, with brisker pace he moved, When brave Ulysses his approach perceived, And thus to Diomede his speech address’d. Tydides! yonder man is from the host; Either a spy he comes, or with intent405 To spoil the dead. First, freely let him pass Few paces, then pursuing him with speed, Seize on him suddenly; but should he prove The nimbler of the three, with threatening spear Enforce him from his camp toward the fleet,410 Lest he elude us, and escape to Troy. So they; then, turning from the road oblique, Among the carcases each laid him down. Dolon, suspecting nought, ran swiftly by. [15]But when such space was interposed as mules415 Plow in a day (for mules the ox surpass Through fallows deep drawing the ponderous plow) Both ran toward him. Dolon at the sound Stood; for he hoped some Trojan friends at hand From Hector sent to bid him back again.420 But when within spear’s cast, or less they came, Knowing them enemies he turn’d to flight Incontinent, whom they as swift pursued. As two fleet hounds sharp fang’d, train’d to the chase, Hang on the rear of flying hind or hare,425 And drive her, never swerving from the track, Through copses close; she screaming scuds before; So Diomede and dread Ulysses him Chased constant, intercepting his return. And now, fast-fleeting to the ships, he soon430 Had reach’d the guard, but Pallas with new force Inspired Tydides, lest a meaner Greek Should boast that he had smitten Dolon first, And Diomede win only second praise. He poised his lifted spear, and thus exclaim’d.435 Stand! or my spear shall stop thee. Death impends At every step; thou canst not ’scape me long. He said, and threw his spear, but by design, Err’d from the man. The polish’d weapon swift O’er-glancing his right shoulder, in the soil440 Stood fixt, beyond him. Terrified he stood, Stammering, and sounding through his lips the clash Of chattering teeth, with visage deadly wan. They panting rush’d on him, and both his hands Seized fast; he wept, and suppliant them bespake.445 Take me alive, and I will pay the price Of my redemption. I have gold at home, Brass also, and bright steel, and when report Of my captivity within your fleet Shall reach my father, treasures he will give450 Not to be told, for ransom of his son. To whom Ulysses politic replied. Take courage; entertain no thought of death.[16] But haste! this tell me, and disclose the truth. Why thus toward the ships comest thou alone455 From yonder host, by night, while others sleep? To spoil some carcase? or from Hector sent A spy of all that passes in the fleet? Or by thy curiosity impell’d? Then Dolon, his limbs trembling, thus replied.460 To my great detriment, and far beyond My own design, Hector trepann’d me forth, Who promised me the steeds of Peleus’ son Illustrious, and his brazen chariot bright. He bade me, under night’s fast-flitting shades465 Approach our enemies, a spy, to learn If still as heretofore, ye station guards For safety of your fleet, or if subdued Completely, ye intend immediate flight, And worn with labor, have no will to watch.470 To whom Ulysses, smiling, thus replied. Thou hadst, in truth, an appetite to gifts Of no mean value, coveting the steeds Of brave Æacides; but steeds are they Of fiery sort, difficult to be ruled475 By force of mortal man, Achilles’ self Except, whom an immortal mother bore. But tell me yet again; use no disguise; Where left’st thou, at thy coming forth, your Chief, The valiant Hector? where hath he disposed480 His armor battle-worn, and where his steeds? What other quar4ers of your host are watch’d? Where lodge the guard, and what intend ye next? Still to abide in prospect of the fleet? Or well-content that ye have thus reduced485 Achaia’s host, will ye retire to Troy? To whom this answer Dolon straight returned Son of Eumedes. With unfeigning truth Simply and plainly will I utter all. Hector, with all the Senatorial Chiefs,490 Beside the tomb of sacred Ilius sits Consulting, from the noisy camp remote. But for the guards, Hero! concerning whom Thou hast inquired, there is no certain watch And regular appointed o’er the camp;495 The native[17] Trojans (for they can no less) Sit sleepless all, and each his next exhorts To vigilance; but all our foreign aids, Who neither wives nor children hazard here, Trusting the Trojans for that service, sleep.500 To whom Ulysses, ever wise, replied. How sleep the strangers and allies?—apart? Or with the Trojans mingled?—I would learn. So spake Ulysses; to whom Dolon thus, Son of Eumedes. I will all unfold,505 And all most truly. By the sea are lodged The Carians, the Pæonians arm’d with bows, The Leleges, with the Pelasgian band, And the Caucones. On the skirts encamp Of Thymbra, the Mæonians crested high,510 The Phrygian horsemen, with the Lycian host, And the bold troop of Mysia’s haughty sons. But wherefore these inquiries thus minu4e? For if ye wish to penetrate the host, These who possess the borders of the camp515 Farthest removed of all, are Thracian powers Newly arrived; among them Rhesus sleeps, Son of Eïoneus, their Chief and King. His steeds I saw, the fairest by these eyes Ever beheld, and loftiest; snow itself520 They pass in whiteness, and in speed the winds, With gold and silver all his chariot burns, And he arrived in golden armor clad Stupendous! little suited to the state Of mortal man—fit for a God to wear!525 Now, either lead me to your gallant fleet, Or where ye find me leave me straitly bound Till ye return, and after trial made, Shall know if I have spoken false or true.
But him brave Diomede with aspect stern530 Answer’d. Since, Dolon! thou art caught, although Thy tidings have been good, hope not to live; For should we now release thee and dismiss, Thou wilt revisit yet again the fleet A spy or open foe; but smitten once535 By this death-dealing arm, thou shall return To render mischief to the Greeks no more. He ceased, and Dolon would have stretch’d his hand Toward his beard, and pleaded hard for life, But with his falchion, rising to the blow,540 On the mid-neck he smote him, cutting sheer Both tendons with a stroke so swift, that ere His tongue had ceased, his head was in the dust.[18] They took his helmet clothed with ferret’s felt, Stripp’d off his wolf-skin, seized his bow and spear,545 And brave Ulysses lifting in his hand The trophy to Minerva, pray’d and said: Hail Goddess; these are thine! for thee of all Who in Olympus dwell, we will invoke First to our aid. Now also guide our steps,550 Propitious, to the Thracian tents and steeds. He ceased, and at arm’s-length the lifted spoils Hung on a tamarisk; but mark’d the spot, Plucking away with handful grasp the reeds And spreading boughs, lest they should seek the prize555 Themselves in vain, returning ere the night, Swift traveller, should have fled before the dawn. Thence, o’er the bloody champain strew’d with arms Proceeding, to the Thracian lines they came. They, wearied, slept profound; beside them lay,560 In triple order regular arranged, Their radiant armor, and their steeds in pairs. Amid them Rhesus slept, and at his side His coursers, to the outer chariot-ring Fasten’d secure. Ulysses saw him first,565 And, seeing, mark’d him out to Diomede. Behold the man, Tydides! Lo! the steeds By Dolon specified whom we have slain. Be quick. Exert thy force. Arm’d as thou art, Sleep not. Loose thou the steeds, or slaughter thou570 The Thracians, and the steeds shall be my care. He ceased; then blue-eyed Pallas with fresh force Invigor’d Diomede. From side to side He slew; dread groans arose of dying men Hewn with the sword, and the earth swam with blood.575 As if he find a flock unguarded, sheep Or goats, the lion rushes on his prey, With such unsparing force Tydides smote The men of Thrace, till he had slaughter’d twelve; And whom Tydides with his falchion struck580 Laertes’ son dragg’d by his feet abroad, Forecasting that the steeds might pass with ease, Nor start, as yet uncustom’d to the dead. But when the son of Tydeus found the King, Him also panting forth his last, last, breath,585 He added to the twelve; for at his head An evil dream that night had stood, the form Of Diomede, by Pallas’ art devised. Meantime, the bold Ulysses loosed the steeds, Which, to each other rein’d, he drove abroad,590 Smiting them with his bow (for of the scourge He thought not in the chariot-seat secured) And as he went, hiss’d, warning Diomede. But he, projecting still some hardier deed, Stood doubtful, whether by the pole to draw595 The chariot thence, laden with gorgeous arms, Or whether heaving it on high, to bear The burthen off, or whether yet to take More Thracian lives; when him with various thoughts Perplex’d, Minerva, drawing near, bespake.600 Son of bold Tydeus! think on thy return To yonder fleet, lest thou depart constrain’d. Some other God may rouse the powers of Troy. She ended, and he knew the voice divine. At once he mounted. With his bow the steeds605 Ulysses plyed, and to the ships they flew. Nor look’d the bender of the silver bow, Apollo, forth in vain, but at the sight Of Pallas following Diomede incensed, Descended to the field where numerous most610 He saw the Trojans, and the Thracian Chief And counsellor, Hippocoön aroused,[19] Kinsman of Rhesus, and renown’d in arms. He, starting from his sleep, soon as he saw The spot deserted where so lately lay615 Those fiery coursers, and his warrior friends Gasping around him, sounded loud the name Of his loved Rhesus. Instant, at the voice, Wild stir arose and clamorous uproar Of fast-assembling Trojans. Deeds they saw—620 Terrible deeds, and marvellous perform’d, But not their authors—they had sought the ships. Meantime arrived where they had slain the spy Of Hector, there Ulysses, dear to Jove, The coursers stay’d, and, leaping to the ground,625 The son of Tydeus in Ulysses’ hands The arms of Dolon placed foul with his blood, Then vaulted light into his seat again. He lash’d the steeds, they, not unwilling, flew To the deep-bellied barks, as to their home.630 First Nestor heard the sound, and thus he said. Friends! Counsellors! and leaders of the Greeks! False shall I speak, or true?—but speak I must. The echoing sound of hoofs alarms my ear. Oh, that Ulysses, and brave Diomede635 This moment might arrive drawn into camp By Trojan steeds! But, ah, the dread I feel! Lest some disaster have for ever quell’d In yon rude host those noblest of the Greeks. He hath not ended, when themselves arrived,640 Both quick dismounted; joy at their return Fill’d every bosom; each with kind salute Cordial, and right-hand welcome greeted them, And first Gerenian Nestor thus inquired. Oh Chief by all extoll’d, glory of Greece,645 Ulysses! how have ye these steeds acquired? In yonder host? or met ye as ye went Some God who gave them to you? for they show A lustre dazzling as the beams of day. Old as I am, I mingle yet in fight650 With Ilium’s sons—lurk never in the fleet— Yet saw I at no time, or have remark’d Steeds such as these; which therefore I believe Perforce, that ye have gained by gift divine; For cloud-assembler Jove, and azure-eyed655 Minerva, Jove’s own daughter, love you both. To whom Ulysses, thus, discreet, replied. Neleian Nestor, glory of the Greeks! A God, so willing, could have given us steeds Superior, for their bounty knows no bounds.660 But, venerable Chief! these which thou seest Are Thracians new-arrived. Their master lies Slain by the valiant Diomede, with twelve The noblest of his warriors at his side, A thirteenth[20] also, at small distance hence665 We slew, by Hector and the Chiefs of Troy Sent to inspect the posture of our host. He said; then, high in exultation, drove The coursers o’er the trench, and with him pass’d The glad Achaians; at the spacious tent670 Of Diomede arrived, with even thongs They tied them at the cribs where stood the steeds Of Tydeus’ son, with winnow’d wheat supplied. Ulysses in his bark the gory spoils Of Dolon placed, designing them a gift675 To Pallas. Then, descending to the sea, Neck, thighs, and legs from sweat profuse they cleansed, And, so refresh’d and purified, their last Ablution in bright tepid baths perform’d. Each thus completely laved, and with smooth oil680 Anointed, at the well-spread board they sat, And quaff’d, in honor of Minerva, wine Delicious, from the brimming beaker drawn.
The vividness of the scenes presented to us in this Book constitute its chief beauty. The reader sees the most natural night-scene in the world. He is led step by step with the adventurers, and made the companion of all their expectations and uncertainties. We see the very color of the sky; know the time to a minute; are impatient while the heroes are arming; our imagination follows them, knows all their doubts, and even the secret wishes of their hearts sent up to Minerva. We are alarmed at the approach of Dolon, hear his very footsteps, assist the two chiefs in pursuing him, and stop just with the spear that arrests him. We are perfectly acquainted with the situation of all the forces, with the figure in which they lie, with the disposition of Rhesus and the Thracians, with the posture of his chariot and horses. The marshy spot of ground where Dolon is killed, the tamarisk, or aquatic plant upon which they hung his spoils, and the reeds that are heaped together to mark the place, are circumstances the most picturesque imaginable.
XI. ARGUMENT OF THE ELEVENTH BOOK
Agamemnon distinguishes himself. He is wounded, and retires. Diomede is wounded by Paris; Ulysses by Socus. Ajax with Menelaus flies to the relief of Ulysses, and Eurypylus, soon after, to the relief of Ajax. While he is employed in assisting Ajax, he is shot in the thigh by Paris, who also wounds Machaon. Nestor conveys Machaon from the field. Achilles dispatches Patroclus to the tent of Nestor, and Nestor takes that occasion to exhort Patroclus to engage in battle, clothed in the armor of Achilles.
Book XI
Aurora from Tithonus’ side arose With light for heaven and earth, when Jove dispatch’d Discord, the fiery signal in her hand Of battle bearing, to the Grecian fleet. High on Ulysses’ huge black ship she stood5 The centre of the fleet, whence all might hear, The tent of Telamon’s huge son between, And of Achilles; for confiding they In their heroic fortitude, their barks Well-poised had station’d utmost of the line.10 There standing, shrill she sent a cry abroad Among the Achaians, such as thirst infused Of battle ceaseless into every breast. All deem’d, at once, war sweeter, than to seek Their native country through the waves again.15 Then with loud voice Atrides bade the Greeks Gird on their armor, and himself his arms Took radiant. First around his legs he clasp’d His shining greaves with silver studs secured, Then bound his corselet to his bosom, gift20 Of Cynyras long since;[1] for rumor loud Had Cyprus reached of an Achaian host Assembling, destined to the shores of Troy: Wherefore, to gratify the King of men, He made the splendid ornament his own.25 Ten rods of steel cœrulean all around Embraced it, twelve of gold, twenty of tin; Six[2] spiry serpents their uplifted heads Cœrulean darted at the wearer’s throat, Splendor diffusing as the various bow30 Fix’d by Saturnian Jove in showery clouds, A sign to mortal men.[3] He slung his sword Athwart his shoulders; dazzling bright it shone With gold emboss’d, and silver was the sheath Suspended graceful in a belt of gold.35 His massy shield o’ershadowing him whole, High-wrought and beautiful, he next assumed. Ten circles bright of brass around its field Extensive, circle within circle, ran; The central boss was black, but hemm’d about40 With twice ten bosses of resplendent tin. There, dreadful ornament! the visage dark Of Gorgon scowl’d, border’d by Flight and Fear. The loop was silver, and a serpent form Cœrulean over all its surface twined,45 Three heads erecting on one neck, the heads Together wreath’d into a stately crown. His helmet quâtre-crested,[4] and with studs Fast riveted around he to his brows Adjusted, whence tremendous waved his crest50 Of mounted hair on high. Two spears he seized Ponderous, brass-pointed, and that flash’d to heaven. Sounds[5] like clear thunder, by the spouse of Jove And by Minerva raised to extol the King Of opulent Mycenæ, roll’d around.55 At once each bade his charioteer his steeds Hold fast beside the margin of the trench In orderly array; the foot all arm’d Rush’d forward, and the clamor of the host Rose infinite into the dawning skies.60 First, at the trench, the embattled infantry[6] Stood ranged; the chariots follow’d close behind; Dire was the tumult by Saturnian Jove Excited, and from ether down he shed Blood-tinctured dews among them, for he meant65 That day to send full many a warrior bold To Pluto’s dreary realm, slain premature. Opposite, on the rising-ground, appear’d The Trojans; them majestic Hector led, Noble Polydamas, Æneas raised70 To godlike honors in all Trojan hearts, And Polybus, with whom Antenor’s sons Agenor, and young Acamas advanced. Hector the splendid orb of his broad shield Bore in the van, and as a comet now75 Glares through the clouds portentous, and again, Obscured by gloomy vapors, disappears, So Hector, marshalling his host, in front Now shone, now vanish’d in the distant rear. All-cased he flamed in brass, and on the sight80 Flash’d as the lightnings of Jove Ægis-arm’d. As reapers, toiling opposite,[7] lay bare Some rich man’s furrows, while the sever’d grain, Barley or wheat, sinks as the sickle moves, So Greeks and Trojans springing into fight85 Slew mutual; foul retreat alike they scorn’d, Alike in fierce hostility their heads Both bore aloft, and rush’d like wolves to war. Discord, spectatress terrible, that sight Beheld exulting; she, of all the Gods,90 Alone was present; not a Power beside There interfered, but each his bright abode Quiescent occupied wherever built Among the windings of the Olympian heights; Yet blamed they all the storm-assembler King95 Saturnian, for his purposed aid to Troy. The eternal father reck’d not; he, apart, Seated in solitary pomp, enjoy’d His glory, and from on high the towers survey’d Of Ilium and the fleet of Greece, the flash100 Of gleaming arms, the slayer and the slain. While morning lasted, and the light of day Increased, so long the weapons on both sides Flew in thick vollies, and the people fell. But, what time his repast the woodman spreads105 In some umbrageous vale, his sinewy arms Wearied with hewing many a lofty tree, And his wants satisfied, he feels at length The pinch of appetite to pleasant food,[8] Then was it, that encouraging aloud110 Each other, in their native virtue strong, The Grecians through the phalanx burst of Troy. Forth sprang the monarch first; he slew the Chief Bianor, nor himself alone, but slew Oïleus also driver of his steeds.115 Oïleus, with a leap alighting, rush’d On Agamemnon; he his fierce assault Encountering, with a spear met full his front. Nor could his helmet’s ponderous brass sustain That force, but both his helmet and his skull120 It shatter’d, and his martial rage repress’d. The King of men, stripping their corselets, bared Their shining breasts, and left them. Isus, next, And Antiphus he flew to slay, the sons Of Priam both, and in one chariot borne,125 This spurious, genuine that. The bastard drove, And Antiphus, a warrior high-renown’d, Fought from the chariot; them Achilles erst Feeding their flocks on Ida had surprised And bound with osiers, but for ransom loosed.130 Of these, imperial Agamemnon, first, Above the pap pierced Isus; next, he smote Antiphus with his sword beside the ear, And from his chariot cast him to the ground. Conscious of both, their glittering arms he stripp’d,135 For he had seen them when from Ida’s heights Achilles led them to the Grecian fleet. As with resistless fangs the lion breaks The young in pieces of the nimble hind, Entering her lair, and takes their feeble lives;140 She, though at hand, can yield them no defence, But through the thick wood, wing’d with terror, starts Herself away, trembling at such a foe; So them the Trojans had no power to save, Themselves all driven before the host of Greece.145 Next, on Pisandrus, and of dauntless heart Hippolochus he rush’d; they were the sons Of brave Antimachus, who with rich gifts By Paris bought, inflexible withheld From Menelaus still his lovely bride.150 His sons, the monarch, in one chariot borne Encounter’d; they (for they had lost the reins) With trepidation and united force Essay’d to check the steeds; astonishment Seized both; Atrides with a lion’s rage155 Came on, and from the chariot thus they sued. Oh spare us! son of Atreus, and accept Ransom immense. Antimachus our sire Is rich in various treasure, gold and brass, And temper’d steel, and, hearing the report160 That in Achaia’s fleet his sons survive, He will requite thee with a glorious price. So they, with tears and gentle terms the King Accosted, but no gentle answer heard. Are ye indeed the offspring of the Chief165 Antimachus, who when my brother once With godlike Laertiades your town Enter’d ambassador, his death advised In council, and to let him forth no more? Now rue ye both the baseness of your sire.170 He said, and from his chariot to the plain Thrust down Pisandrus, piercing with keen lance His bosom, and supine he smote the field. Down leap’d Hippolochus, whom on the ground He slew, cut sheer his hands, and lopp’d his head,175 And roll’d it like a mortar[9] through the ranks. He left the slain, and where he saw the field With thickest battle cover’d, thither flew By all the Grecians follow’d bright in arms. The scatter’d infantry constrained to fly,180 Fell by the infantry; the charioteers, While with loud hoofs their steeds the dusty soil Excited, o’er the charioteers their wheels Drove brazen-fellied, and the King of men Incessant slaughtering, called his Argives[10] on.185 As when fierce flames some ancient forest seize, From side to side in flakes the various wind Rolls them, and to the roots devour’d, the trunks Fall prostrate under fury of the fire, So under Agamemnon fell the heads190 Of flying Trojans. Many a courser proud The empty chariots through the paths of war Whirl’d rattling, of their charioteers deprived; They breathless press’d the plain, now fitter far To feed the vultures than to cheer their wives.195 Conceal’d, meantime, by Jove, Hector escaped The dust, darts, deaths, and tumult of the field; And Agamemnon to the swift pursuit Call’d loud the Grecians. Through the middle plain Beside the sepulchre of Ilus, son200 Of Dardanus, and where the fig-tree stood, The Trojans flew, panting to gain the town, While Agamemnon pressing close the rear, Shout after shout terrific sent abroad, And his victorious hands reek’d, red with gore.205 But at the beech-tree and the Scæan gate Arrived, the Trojans halted, waiting there The rearmost fugitives; they o’er the field Came like a herd, which in the dead of night A lion drives; all fly, but one is doom’d210 To death inevitable; her with jaws True to their hold he seizes, and her neck Breaking, embowels her, and laps the blood; So, Atreus’ royal son, the hindmost still Slaying, and still pursuing, urged them on.215 Many supine, and many prone, the field Press’d, by the son of Atreus in their flight Dismounted; for no weapon raged as his. But now, at last, when he should soon have reach’d The lofty walls of Ilium, came the Sire220 Of Gods and men descending from the skies, And on the heights of Ida fountain-fed, Sat arm’d with thunders. Calling to his foot Swift Iris golden-pinion’d, thus he spake. Iris! away. Thus speak in Hector’s ears.225 While yet he shall the son of Atreus see Fierce warring in the van, and mowing down The Trojan ranks, so long let him abstain From battle, leaving to his host the task Of bloody contest furious with the Greeks.230 But soon as Atreus’ son by spear or shaft Wounded shall climb his chariot, with such force I will endue Hector, that he shall slay Till he have reach’d the ships, and till, the sun Descending, sacred darkness cover all.235 He spake, nor rapid Iris disobey’d Storm-wing’d ambassadress, but from the heights Of Ida stoop’d to Ilium. There she found The son of royal Priam by the throng Of chariots and of steeds compass’d about240 She, standing at his side, him thus bespake. Oh, son of Priam! as the Gods discreet! I bring thee counsel from the Sire of all. While yet thou shalt the son of Atreus see Fierce warring in the van, and mowing down245 The warrior ranks, so long he bids thee pause From battle, leaving to thy host the task Of bloody contest furious with the Greeks. But soon as Atreus’ son, by spear or shaft Wounded, shall climb his chariot, Jove will then250 Endue thee with such force, that thou shalt slay Till thou have reach’d the ships, and till, the sun Descending, sacred darkness cover all. So saying, swift-pinion’d Iris disappear’d. Then Hector from his chariot at a leap255 Came down all arm’d, and, shaking his bright spears, Ranged every quarter, animating loud The legions, and rekindling horrid war. Back roll’d the Trojan ranks, and faced the Greeks; The Greeks their host to closer phalanx drew;260 The battle was restored, van fronting van They stood, and Agamemnon into fight Sprang foremost, panting for superior fame. Say now, ye Nine, who on Olympus dwell! What Trojan first, or what ally of Troy265 Opposed the force of Agamemnon’s arm? Iphidamas, Antenor’s valiant son, Of loftiest stature, who in fertile Thrace Mother of flocks was nourish’d, Cisseus him His grandsire, father of Theano praised270 For loveliest features, in his own abode Rear’d yet a child, and when at length he reach’d The measure of his glorious manhood firm Dismiss’d him not, but, to engage him more, Gave him his daughter. Wedded, he his bride275 As soon deserted, and with galleys twelve Following the rumor’d voyage of the Greeks, The same course steer’d; but at Percope moor’d, And marching thence, arrived on foot at Troy. He first opposed Atrides. They approach’d.280 The spear of Agamemnon wander’d wide; But him Iphidamas on his broad belt Beneath the corselet struck, and, bearing still On his spear-beam, enforced it; but ere yet He pierced the broider’d zone, his point, impress’d285 Against the silver, turn’d, obtuse as lead. Then royal Agamemnon in his hand The weapon grasping, with a lion’s rage Home drew it to himself, and from his gripe Wresting it, with his falchion keen his neck290 Smote full, and stretch’d him lifeless at his foot. So slept Iphidamas among the slain; Unhappy! from his virgin bride remote, Associate with the men of Troy in arms He fell, and left her beauties unenjoy’d.295 He gave her much, gave her a hundred beeves, And sheep and goats a thousand from his flocks Promised, for numberless his meadows ranged; But Agamemnon, son of Atreus, him Slew and despoil’d, and through the Grecian host300 Proceeded, laden with his gorgeous arms. Coön that sight beheld, illustrious Chief, Antenor’s eldest born, but with dim eyes Through anguish for his brother’s fall. Unseen Of noble Agamemnon, at his side305 He cautious stood, and with a spear his arm, Where thickest flesh’d, below his elbow, pierced, Till opposite the glittering point appear’d. A thrilling horror seized the King of men So wounded; yet though wounded so, from fight310 He ceased not, but on Coön rush’d, his spear Grasping, well-thriven growth[11] of many a wind. He by the foot drew off Iphidamas, His brother, son of his own sire, aloud Calling the Trojan leaders to his aid;315 When him so occupied with his keen point Atrides pierced his bossy shield beneath. Expiring on Iphidamas he fell Prostrate, and Agamemnon lopp’d his head. Thus, under royal Agamemnon’s hand,320 Antenor’s sons their destiny fulfill’d, And to the house of Ades journey’d both. Through other ranks of warriors then he pass’d, Now with his spear, now with his falchion arm’d, And now with missile force of massy stones,325 While yet his warm blood sallied from the wound. But when the wound grew dry, and the blood ceased, Anguish intolerable undermined Then all the might of Atreus’ royal son. As when a laboring woman’s arrowy throes330 Seize her intense, by Juno’s daughters dread The birth-presiding Ilithyæ deep Infixt, dispensers of those pangs severe; So, anguish insupportable subdued Then all the might of Atreus’ royal son.335 Up-springing to his seat, instant he bade His charioteer drive to the hollow barks, Heart-sick himself with pain; yet, ere he went, With voice loud-echoing hail’d the Danaï. Friends! counsellors and leaders of the Greeks!340 Now drive, yourselves, the battle from your ships. For me the Gods permit not to employ In fight with Ilium’s host the day entire. He ended, and the charioteer his steeds Lash’d to the ships; they not unwilling flew,345 Bearing from battle the afflicted King With foaming chests and bellies grey with dust. Soon Hector, noting his retreat, aloud Call’d on the Trojans and allies of Troy. Trojans and Lycians, and close-fighting sons350 Of Dardanus! oh summon all your might; Now, now be men! Their bravest is withdrawn! Glory and honor from Saturnian Jove On me attend; now full against the Greeks Drive all your steeds, and win a deathless name.355 He spake—and all drew courage from his word. As when his hounds bright-tooth’d some hunter cheers Against the lion or the forest-boar, So Priameïan Hector cheer’d his host Magnanimous against the sons of Greece,360 Terrible as gore-tainted Mars. Among The foremost warriors, with success elate He strode, and flung himself into the fight Black as a storm which sudden from on high Descending, furrows deep the gloomy flood.365 Then whom slew Priameïan Hector first, Whom last, by Jove, that day, with glory crown’d? Assæus, Dolops, Orus, Agelaüs, Autonoüs, Hipponoüs, Æsymnus, Opheltius and Opites first he slew,370 All leaders of the Greeks, and, after these, The people. As when whirlwinds of the West A storm encounter from the gloomy South, The waves roll multitudinous, and the foam Upswept by wandering gusts fills all the air,375 So Hector swept the Grecians. Then defeat Past remedy and havoc had ensued, Then had the routed Grecians, flying, sought Their ships again, but that Ulysses[12] thus Summon’d the brave Tydides to his aid.380 Whence comes it, Diomede, that we forget Our wonted courage? Hither, O my friend! And, fighting at my side, ward off the shame That must be ours, should Hector seize the fleet. To whom the valiant Diomede replied.385 I will be firm; trust me thou shalt not find Me shrinking; yet small fruit of our attempts Shall follow, for the Thunderer, not to us, But to the Trojan, gives the glorious day. The Hero spake, and from his chariot cast390 Thymbræus to the ground pierced through the pap, While by Ulysses’ hand his charioteer Godlike Molion, fell. The warfare thus Of both for ever closed, them there they left, And plunging deep into the warrior-throng395 Troubled the multitude. As when two boars Turn desperate on the close-pursuing hounds, So they, returning on the host of Troy, Slew on all sides, and overtoil’d with flight From Hector’s arm, the Greeks meantime respired.400 Two warriors, next, their chariot and themselves They took, plebeians brave, sons of the seer Percosian Merops in prophetic skill Surpassing all; he both his sons forbad The mortal field, but disobedient they405 Still sought it, for their destiny prevail’d. Spear-practised Diomede of life deprived Both these, and stripp’d them of their glorious arms, While by Ulysses’ hand Hippodamus Died and Hypeirochus. And now the son410 Of Saturn, looking down from Ida, poised The doubtful war, and mutual deaths they dealt. Tydides plunged his spear into the groin Of the illustrious son of Pæon, bold Agastrophus. No steeds at his command415 Had he, infatuate! but his charioteer His steeds detain’d remote, while through the van Himself on foot rush’d madly till he fell. But Hector through the ranks darting his eye Perceived, and with ear-piercing cries advanced420 Against them, follow’d by the host of Troy. The son of Tydeus, shuddering, his approach Discern’d, and instant to Ulysses spake.[13] Now comes the storm! This way the mischief rolls! Stand and repulse the Trojan. Now be firm.425 He said, and hurling his long-shadow’d beam Smote Hector. At his helmet’s crown he aim’d, Nor err’d, but brass encountering brass, the point Glanced wide, for he had cased his youthful brows In triple brass, Apollo’s glorious gift.430 Yet with rapidity at such a shock Hector recoil’d into the multitude Afar, where sinking to his knees, he lean’d On his broad palm, and darkness veil’d his eyes. But while Tydides follow’d through the van435 His stormy spear, which in the distant soil Implanted stood, Hector his scatter’d sense Recovering, to his chariot sprang again, And, diving deep into his host, escaped. The noble son of Tydeus, spear in hand,440 Rush’d after him, and as he went, exclaim’d. Dog! thou hast now escaped; but, sure the stroke Approach’d thee nigh, well-aim’d. Once more thy prayers Which ever to Apollo thou prefer’st Entering the clash of battle, have prevail’d,445 And he hath rescued thee. But well beware Our next encounter, for if also me Some God befriend, thou diest. Now will I seek Another mark, and smite whom next I may. He spake, and of his armor stripp’d the son450 Spear-famed of Pæon. Meantime Paris, mate Of beauteous Helen, drew his bow against Tydides; by a pillar of the tomb Of Ilus, ancient senator revered, Conceal’d he stood, and while the Hero loosed455 His corselet from the breast of Pæon’s son Renown’d, and of his helmet and his targe Despoil’d him; Paris, arching quick his bow, No devious shaft dismiss’d, but his right foot Pierced through the sole, and fix’d it to the ground.460 Transported from his ambush forth he leap’d With a loud laugh, and, vaunting, thus exclaim’d: Oh shaft well shot! it galls thee. Would to heaven That it had pierced thy heart, and thou hadst died! So had the Trojans respite from their toils465 Enjoy’d, who, now, shudder at sight of thee Like she-goats when the lion is at hand. To whom, undaunted, Diomede replied. Archer shrew-tongued! spie-maiden! man of curls![14] Shouldst thou in arms attempt me face to face,470 Thy bow and arrows should avail thee nought. Vain boaster! thou hast scratch’d my foot—no more— And I regard it as I might the stroke Of a weak woman or a simple child. The weapons of a dastard and a slave475 Are ever such. More terrible are mine, And whom they pierce, though slightly pierced, he dies. His wife her cheeks rends inconsolable, His babes are fatherless, his blood the glebe Incarnadines, and where he bleeds and rots480 More birds of prey than women haunt the place. He ended, and Ulysses, drawing nigh, Shelter’d Tydides; he behind the Chief Of Ithaca sat drawing forth the shaft, But pierced with agonizing pangs the while.485 Then, climbing to his chariot-seat, he bade Sthenelus hasten to the hollow ships, Heart-sick with pain. And now alone was seen Spear-famed Ulysses; not an Argive more Remain’d, so universal was the rout,490 And groaning, to his own great heart he said. Alas! what now awaits me? If, appall’d By multitudes, I fly, much detriment; And if alone they intercept me here, Still more; for Jove hath scatter’d all the host,495 Yet why these doubts! for know I not of old That only dastards fly, and that the voice Of honor bids the famed in battle stand, Bleed they themselves, or cause their foes to bleed? While busied in such thought he stood, the ranks500 Of Trojans fronted with broad shields, enclosed The hero with a ring, hemming around Their own destruction. As when dogs, and swains In prime of manhood, from all quarters rush Around a boar, he from his thicket bolts,505 The bright tusk whetting in his crooked jaws: They press him on all sides, and from beneath Loud gnashings hear, yet firm, his threats defy; Like them the Trojans on all sides assail’d Ulysses dear to Jove. First with his spear510 He sprang impetuous on a valiant chief, Whose shoulder with a downright point he pierced, Deïopites; Thoön next he slew, And Ennomus, and from his coursers’ backs Alighting quick, Chersidamas; beneath515 His bossy shield the gliding weapon pass’d Right through his navel; on the plain he fell Expiring, and with both hands clench’d the dust. Them slain he left, and Charops wounded next, Brother of Socus, generous Chief, and son520 Of Hippasus; brave Socus to the aid Of Charops flew, and, godlike, thus began. Illustrious chief, Ulysses! strong to toil And rich in artifice! Or boast to-day Two sons of Hippasus, brave warriors both,525 Of armor and of life bereft by thee, Or to my vengeful spear resign thy own! So saying, Ulysses’ oval disk he smote. Through his bright disk the stormy weapon flew, Transpierced his twisted mail, and from his side530 Drove all the skin, but to his nobler parts Found entrance none, by Pallas turn’d aslant.[15] Ulysses, conscious of his life untouch’d, Retired a step from Socus, and replied. Ah hapless youth; thy fate is on the wing;535 Me thou hast forced indeed to cease a while From battle with the Trojans, but I speak Thy death at hand; for vanquish’d by my spear, This self-same day thou shalt to me resign Thy fame, thy soul to Pluto steed-renown’d.540 He ceased; then Socus turn’d his back to fly, But, as he turn’d, his shoulder-blades between He pierced him, and the spear urged through his breast. On his resounding arms he fell, and thus Godlike Ulysses gloried in his fall.545 Ah, Socus, son of Hippasus, a chief Of fame equestrian! swifter far than thou Death follow’d thee, and thou hast not escaped. Ill-fated youth! thy parents’ hands thine eyes Shall never close, but birds of ravenous maw550 Shall tear thee, flapping thee with frequent wing, While me the noble Grecians shall entomb! So saying, the valiant Socus’ spear he drew From his own flesh, and through his bossy shield. The weapon drawn, forth sprang the blood, and left555 His spirit faint. Then Ilium’s dauntless sons, Seeing Ulysses’ blood, exhorted glad Each other, and, with force united, all Press’d on him. He, retiring, summon’d loud His followers. Thrice, loud as mortal may,560 He call’d, and valiant Menelaus thrice Hearing the voice, to Ajax thus remark’d. Illustrious son of Telamon! The voice Of Laertiades comes o’er my ear With such a sound, as if the hardy chief,565 Abandon’d of his friends, were overpower’d By numbers intercepting his retreat. Haste! force we quick a passage through the ranks. His worth demands our succor, for I fear Lest sole conflicting with the host of Troy,570 Brave as he is, he perish, to the loss Unspeakable and long regret of Greece. So saying, he went, and Ajax, godlike Chief, Follow’d him. At the voice arrived, they found Ulysses Jove-beloved compass’d about575 By Trojans, as the lynxes in the hills, Adust for blood, compass an antler’d stag Pierced by an archer; while his blood is warm And his limbs pliable, from him he ’scapes; But when the feather’d barb hath quell’d his force,580 In some dark hollow of the mountain’s side, The hungry troop devour him; chance, the while, Conducts a lion thither, before whom All vanish, and the lion feeds alone; So swarm’d the Trojan powers, numerous and bold,585 Around Ulysses, who with wary skill Heroic combated his evil day. But Ajax came, cover’d with his broad shield That seem’d a tower, and at Ulysses’ side Stood fast; then fled the Trojans wide-dispersed,590 And Menelaus led him by the hand Till his own chariot to his aid approach’d. But Ajax, springing on the Trojans, slew Doryclus, from the loins of Priam sprung, But spurious. Pandocus he wounded next,595 Then wounded Pyrasus, and after him Pylartes and Lysander. As a flood Runs headlong from the mountains to the plain After long showers from Jove; many a dry oak And many a pine the torrent sweeps along,600 And, turbid, shoots much soil into the sea, So, glorious Ajax troubled wide the field, Horse and man slaughtering, whereof Hector yet Heard not; for on the left of all the war He fought beside Scamander, where around605 Huge Nestor, and Idomeneus the brave, Most deaths were dealt, and loudest roar’d the fight. There Hector toil’d, feats wonderful of spear And horsemanship achieving, and the lines Of many a phalanx desolating wide.610 Nor even then had the bold Greeks retired, But that an arrow triple-barb’d, dispatch’d By Paris, Helen’s mate, against the Chief Machaon warring with distinguish’d force, Pierced his right shoulder. For his sake alarm’d,615 The valor-breathing Grecians fear’d, lest he In that disast’rous field should also fall.[16] At once, Idomeneus of Crete approach’d The noble Nestor, and him thus bespake. Arise, Neleian Nestor! Pride of Greece!620 Ascend thy chariot, and Machaon placed Beside thee, bear him, instant to the fleet. For one, so skill’d in medicine, and to free The inherent barb, is worth a multitude. He said, nor the Gerenian hero old625 Aught hesitated, but into his seat Ascended, and Machaon, son renown’d Of Æsculapius, mounted at his side. He lash’d the steeds, they not unwilling sought The hollow ships, long their familiar home.630 Cebriones, meantime, the charioteer Of Hector, from his seat the Trojan ranks Observing sore discomfited, began. Here are we busied, Hector! on the skirts Of roaring battle, and meantime I see635 Our host confused, their horses and themselves All mingled. Telamonian Ajax there Routs them; I know the hero by his shield. Haste, drive we thither, for the carnage most Of horse and foot conflicting furious, there640 Rages, and infinite the shouts arise. He said, and with shrill-sounding scourge the steeds Smote ample-maned; they, at the sudden stroke Through both hosts whirl’d the chariot, shields and men Trampling; with blood the axle underneath645 All redden’d, and the chariot-rings with drops From the horse-hoofs, and from the fellied wheels. Full on the multitude he drove, on fire To burst the phalanx, and confusion sent Among the Greeks, for nought[17] he shunn’d the spear.650 All quarters else with falchion or with lance, Or with huge stones he ranged, but cautious shunn’d The encounter of the Telamonian Chief. But the eternal father throned on high With fear fill’d Ajax; panic-fixt he stood,655 His seven-fold shield behind his shoulder cast, And hemm’d by numbers, with an eye askant, Watchful retreated. As a beast of prey Retiring, turns and looks, so he his face Turn’d oft, retiring slow, and step by step.660 As when the watch-dogs and assembled swains Have driven a tawny lion from the stalls, Then, interdicting him his wish’d repast, Watch all the night, he, famish’d, yet again Comes furious on, but speeds not, kept aloof665 By frequent spears from daring hands, but more By flash of torches, which, though fierce, he dreads, Till, at the dawn, sullen he stalks away; So from before the Trojans Ajax stalk’d Sullen, and with reluctance slow retired.670 His brave heart trembling for the fleet of Greece. As when (the boys o’erpower’d) a sluggish ass, On whose tough sides they have spent many a staff, Enters the harvest, and the spiry ears Crops persevering; with their rods the boys675 Still ply him hard, but all their puny might Scarce drives him forth when he hath browsed his fill, So, there, the Trojans and their foreign aids With glittering lances keen huge Ajax urged, His broad shield’s centre smiting.[18] He, by turns,680 With desperate force the Trojan phalanx dense Facing, repulsed them, and by turns he fled, But still forbad all inroad on the fleet. Trojans and Greeks between, alone, he stood A bulwark. Spears from daring hands dismiss’d685 Some, piercing his broad shield, there planted stood, While others, in the midway falling, spent Their disappointed rage deep in the ground.
Eurypylus, Evæmon’s noble son, Him seeing, thus, with weapons overwhelmed690 Flew to his side, his glittering lance dismiss’d, And Apisaon, son of Phausias, struck Under the midriff; through his liver pass’d The ruthless point, and, falling, he expired. Forth sprang Eurypylus to seize the spoil;695 Whom soon as godlike Alexander saw Despoiling Apisaon of his arms, Drawing incontinent his bow, he sent A shaft to his right thigh; the brittle reed Snapp’d, and the rankling barb stuck fast within.700 Terrified at the stroke, the wounded Chief To his own band retired, but, as he went, With echoing voice call’d on the Danaï— Friends! Counsellors, and leaders of the Greeks! Turn ye and stand, and from his dreadful lot705 Save Ajax whelm’d with weapons; ’scape, I judge, He cannot from the roaring fight, yet oh Stand fast around him; if save ye may, Your champion huge, the Telamonian Chief! So spake the wounded warrior. They at once710 With sloping bucklers, and with spears erect, To his relief approach’d. Ajax with joy The friendly phalanx join’d, then turn’d and stood. Thus burn’d the embattled field as with the flames Of a devouring fire. Meantime afar715 From all that tumult the Neleian mares Bore Nestor, foaming as they ran, with whom Machaon also rode, leader revered. Achilles mark’d him passing; for he stood Exalted on his huge ship’s lofty stern,720 Spectator of the toil severe, and flight Deplorable of the defeated Greeks. He call’d his friend Patroclus. He below Within his tent the sudden summons heard And sprang like Mars abroad, all unaware725 That in that sound he heard the voice of fate. Him first Menœtius’ gallant son address’d. What would Achilles? Wherefore hath he call’d? To whom Achilles swiftest of the swift: Brave Menœtiades! my soul’s delight!730 Soon will the Grecians now my knees surround Suppliant, by dread extremity constrain’d. But fly Patroclus, haste, oh dear to Jove! Inquire of Nestor, whom he hath convey’d From battle, wounded? Viewing him behind,735 I most believed him Æsculapius’ son Machaon, but the steeds so swiftly pass’d My galley, that his face escaped my note.[19] He said, and prompt to gratify his friend, Forth ran Patroclus through the camp of Greece.740 Now when Neleian Nestor to his tent Had brought Machaon, they alighted both, And the old hero’s friend Eurymedon Released the coursers. On the beach awhile Their tunics sweat-imbued in the cool air745 They ventilated, facing full the breeze, Then on soft couches in the tent reposed. Meantime, their beverage Hecamede mix’d, The old King’s bright-hair’d captive, whom he brought From Tenedos, what time Achilles sack’d750 The city, daughter of the noble Chief Arsinoüs, and selected from the rest For Nestor, as the honorable meed Of counsels always eminently wise. She, first, before them placed a table bright,755 With feet cœrulean; thirst-provoking sauce She brought them also in a brazen tray, Garlic[20] and honey new, and sacred meal. Beside them, next, she placed a noble cup Of labor exquisite, which from his home760 The ancient King had brought with golden studs Embellish’d; it presented to the grasp Four ears; two golden turtles, perch’d on each, Seem’d feeding, and two turtles[21] form’d the base. That cup once fill’d, all others must have toil’d765 To move it from the board, but it was light In Nestor’s hand; he lifted it with ease.[22] The graceful virgin in that cup a draught Mix’d for them, Pramnian wine and savory cheese Of goat’s milk, grated with a brazen rasp,770 Then sprinkled all with meal. The draught prepared, She gave it to their hand; they, drinking, slaked Their fiery thirst, and with each other sat Conversing friendly, when the godlike youth By brave Achilles sent, stood at the door.775 Him seeing, Nestor from his splendid couch Arose, and by the hand leading him in, Entreated him to sit, but that request Patroclus, on his part refusing, said, Oh venerable King! no seat is here780 For me, nor may thy courtesy prevail. He is irascible, and to be fear’d Who bade me ask what Chieftain thou hast brought From battle, wounded; but untold I learn; I see Machaon, and shall now report785 As I have seen; oh ancient King revered! Thou know’st Achilles fiery, and propense Blame to impute even where blame is none.
To whom the brave Gerenian thus replied. Why feels Achilles for the wounded Greeks790 Such deep concern? He little knows the height To which our sorrows swell. Our noblest lie By spear or arrow wounded in the fleet. Diomede, warlike son of Tydeus, bleeds, Gall’d by a shaft; Ulysses, glorious Chief,795 And Agamemnon[23] suffer by the spear; Eurypylus is shot into the thigh, And here lies still another newly brought By me from fight, pierced also by a shaft. What then? How strong soe’er to give them aid,800 Achilles feels no pity of the Greeks. Waits he till every vessel on the shore Fired, in despite of the whole Argive host, Be sunk in its own ashes, and ourselves All perish, heaps on heaps? For in my limbs805 No longer lives the agility of my youth. Oh, for the vigor of those days again, When Elis, for her cattle which we took, Strove with us and Itymoneus I slew, Brave offspring of Hypirochus; he dwelt810 In Elis, and while I the pledges drove, Stood for his herd, but fell among the first By a spear hurl’d from my victorious arm. Then fled the rustic multitude, and we Drove off abundant booty from the plain,815 Herds fifty of fat beeves, large flocks of goats As many, with as many sheep and swine, And full thrice fifty mares of brightest hue, All breeders, many with their foals beneath. All these, by night returning safe, we drove820 Into Neleian Pylus, and the heart Rejoiced of Neleus, in a son so young A warrior, yet enrich’d with such a prize. At early dawn the heralds summon’d loud The citizens, to prove their just demands825 On fruitful Elis, and the assembled Chiefs Division made (for numerous were the debts Which the Epeans, in the weak estate Of the unpeopled Pylus, had incurr’d; For Hercules, few years before, had sack’d[24]830 Our city, and our mightiest slain. Ourselves The gallant sons of Neleus, were in all Twelve youths, of whom myself alone survived; The rest all perish’d; whence, presumptuous grown, The brazen-mail’d Epeans wrong’d us oft).835 A herd of beeves my father for himself Selected, and a numerous flock beside, Three hundred sheep, with shepherds for them all. For he a claimant was of large arrears From sacred Elis. Four unrivall’d steeds840 With his own chariot to the games he sent, That should contend for the appointed prize A tripod; but Augeias, King of men, Detain’d the steeds, and sent the charioteer Defrauded home. My father, therefore, fired845 At such foul outrage both of deeds and words, Took much, and to the Pylians gave the rest For satisfaction of the claims of all. While thus we busied were in these concerns, And in performance of religious rites850 Throughout the city, came the Epeans arm’d, Their whole vast multitude both horse and foot On the third day; came also clad in brass The two Molions, inexpert as yet In feats of arms, and of a boyish age.855 There is a city on a mountain’s head, Fast by the banks of Alpheus, far remote, The utmost town which sandy Pylus owns, Named Thryoëssa, and, with ardor fired To lay it waste, that city they besieged.860 Now when their host had traversed all the plain, Minerva from Olympus flew by night And bade us arm; nor were the Pylians slow To assemble, but impatient for the fight. Me, then, my father suffer’d not to arm,865 But hid my steeds, for he supposed me raw As yet, and ignorant how war is waged. Yet, even thus, unvantaged and on foot, Superior honors I that day acquired To theirs who rode, for Pallas led me on870 Herself to victory. There is a stream Which at Arena falls into the sea, Named Minuëius; on that river’s bank The Pylian horsemen waited day’s approach, And thither all our foot came pouring down.875 The flood divine of Alpheus thence we reach’d At noon, all arm’d complete; there, hallow’d rites We held to Jove omnipotent, and slew A bull to sacred Alpheus, with a bull To Neptune, and a heifer of the herd880 To Pallas; then, all marshall’d as they were, From van to rear our legions took repast, And at the river’s side slept on their arms. Already the Epean host had round Begirt the city, bent to lay it waste,885 A task which cost them, first, both blood and toil, For when the radiant sun on the green earth Had risen, with prayer to Pallas and to Jove, We gave them battle. When the Pylian host And the Epeans thus were close engaged,890 I first a warrior slew, Mulius the brave, And seized his coursers. He the eldest-born Of King Augeias’ daughters had espoused The golden Agamede; not an herb The spacious earth yields but she knew its powers,895 Him, rushing on me, with my brazen lance I smote, and in the dust he fell; I leap’d Into his seat, and drove into the van. A panic seized the Epeans when they saw The leader of their horse o’erthrown, a Chief900 Surpassing all in fight. Black as a cloud With whirlwind fraught, I drove impetuous on, Took fifty chariots, and at side of each Lay two slain warriors, with their teeth the soil Grinding, all vanquish’d by my single arm.905 I had slain also the Molions, sons Of Actor, but the Sovereign of the deep Their own authentic Sire, in darkness dense Involving both, convey’d them safe away. Then Jove a victory of prime renown910 Gave to the Pylians; for we chased and slew And gather’d spoil o’er all the champain spread With scatter’d shields, till we our steeds had driven To the Buprasian fields laden with corn, To the Olenian rock, and to a town915 In fair Colona situate, and named Alesia. There it was that Pallas turn’d Our people homeward; there I left the last Of all the slain, and he was slain by me. Then drove the Achaians from Buprasium home920 Their coursers fleet, and Jove, of Gods above, Received most praise, Nestor of men below. Such once was I. But brave Achilles shuts His virtues close, an unimparted store; Yet even he shall weep, when all the host,925 His fellow-warriors once, shall be destroy’d. But recollect, young friend! the sage advice Which when thou earnest from Phthia to the aid Of Agamemnon, on that selfsame day Menœtius gave thee. We were present there,930 Ulysses and myself, both in the house, And heard it all; for to the house we came Of Peleus in our journey through the land Of fertile Greece, gathering her states to war. We found thy noble sire Menœtius there,935 Thee and Achilles; ancient Peleus stood To Jove the Thunderer offering in his court Thighs of an ox, and on the blazing rites Libation pouring from a cup of gold. While ye on preparation of the feast940 Attended both, Ulysses and myself Stood in the vestibule; Achilles flew Toward us, introduced us by the hand, And, seating us, such liberal portion gave To each, as hospitality requires.945 Our thirst, at length, and hunger both sufficed, I, foremost speaking, ask’d you to the wars, And ye were eager both, but from your sires Much admonition, ere ye went, received. Old Peleus charged Achilles to aspire950 To highest praise, and always to excel. But thee, thy sire Menœtius thus advised. “My son! Achilles boasts the nobler birth, But thou art elder; he in strength excels Thee far; thou, therefore, with discretion rule955 His inexperience; thy advice impart With gentleness; instruction wise suggest Wisely, and thou shalt find him apt to learn.” So thee thy father taught, but, as it seems, In vain. Yet even now essay to move960 Warlike Achilles; if the Gods so please, Who knows but that thy reasons may prevail To rouse his valiant heart? men rarely scorn The earnest intercession of a friend. But if some prophecy alarm his fears,965 And from his Goddess mother he have aught Received, who may have learnt the same from Jove, Thee let him send at least, and order forth With thee the Myrmidons; a dawn of hope Shall thence, it may be, on our host arise.970 And let him send thee to the battle clad In his own radiant armor; Troy, deceived By such resemblance, shall abstain perchance From conflict, and the weary Greeks enjoy Short respite; it is all that war allows.975 Fresh as ye are, ye, by your shouts alone, May easily repulse an army spent With labor from the camp and from the fleet. Thus Nestor, and his mind bent to his words. Back to Æacides through all the camp980 He ran; and when, still running, he arrived Among Ulysses’ barks, where they had fix’d The forum, where they minister’d the laws, And had erected altars to the Gods, There him Eurypylus, Evæmon’s son,985 Illustrious met, deep-wounded in his thigh, And halting-back from battle. From his head The sweat, and from his shoulders ran profuse, And from his perilous wound the sable blood Continual stream’d; yet was his mind composed.990 Him seeing, Menœtiades the brave Compassion felt, and mournful, thus began. Ah hapless senators and Chiefs of Greece! Left ye your native country that the dogs Might fatten on your flesh at distant Troy?995 But tell me, Hero! say, Eurypylus! Have the Achaians power still to withstand The enormous force of Hector, or is this The moment when his spear must pierce us all? To whom Eurypylus, discreet, replied.1000 Patroclus, dear to Jove! there is no help, No remedy. We perish at our ships. The warriors, once most strenuous of the Greeks, Lie wounded in the fleet by foes whose might Increases ever. But thyself afford1005 To me some succor; lead me to my ship; Cut forth the arrow from my thigh; the gore With warm ablution cleanse, and on the wound Smooth unguents spread, the same as by report Achilles taught thee; taught, himself, their use1010 By Chiron, Centaur, justest of his kind For Podalirius and Machaon both Are occupied. Machaon, as I judge, Lies wounded in his tent, needing like aid Himself, and Podalirius in the field1015 Maintains sharp conflict with the sons of Troy. To whom Menœtius’ gallant son replied. Hero! Eurypylus! how shall we act In this perplexity? what course pursue? I seek the brave Achilles, to whose ear1020 I bear a message from the ancient chief Gerenian Nestor, guardian of the Greeks. Yet will I not, even for such a cause, My friend! abandon thee in thy distress. He ended, and his arms folding around1025 The warrior bore him thence into his tent. His servant, on his entrance, spread the floor With hides, on which Patroclus at his length Extended him, and with his knife cut forth The rankling point; with tepid lotion, next,1030 He cleansed the gore, and with a bitter root Bruised small between his palms, sprinkled the wound. At once, the anodyne his pain assuaged, The wound was dried within, and the blood ceased.
It will be well here to observe the position of the Greeks. All human aid is cut off by the wounds of their heroes, and all assistance from the Gods forbidden by Jupiter. On the contrary, the Trojans see their general at their head, and Jupiter himself fights on their side. Upon this hinge turns the whole poem. The distress of the Greeks occasions first the assistance of Patroclus, and then the death of that hero brings back Achilles.
The poet shows great skill in conducting these incidents. He gives Achilles the pleasure of seeing that the Greeks could not carry on the war without his assistance, and upon this depends the great catastrophe of the poem.
XII. ARGUMENT OF THE TWELFTH BOOK
The Trojans assail the ramparts, and Hector forces the gates.