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The Iliad of Homer

To which is added an Appendix containing
Poems selected from Twenty-six

Languages all Translated

BY

EDGAR ALFRED TIBBETTS

    

   
    

f PARTI et VERITATT}E

BOSTON
RICHARD G. BADGER
The Gorham Press

1907
INDEX

PREFACE
BOOK I
BOOK II .
BOOK III
BOOK IV
BOOK V .
BOOK VI
BOOK VII
BOOK VIII
BOOK IX
BOOK X
BOOK XI
BOOK XII
BOOK XIII
BOOK XIV
BOOK XV
BOOK XVI
BOOK XVII
BOOK XVIII
BOOK XIX
BOOK Xx
BOOK XXI
BOOK XXII
BOOK XXIII
BOOK XXIV

APPENDIX. : : '

PAGE

27
56
72

122

140
156
176
198
219
248
263
291
308
333
363
388
408
421
438
459
476
504
53!
BOOK I.

THE PLAGUE, THE WRATH.

O Goddess, sing Pelides* Achilles’ baneful ire,
Which brought on the Achaians ten thousand sorrows dire,
And many strong souls of heroes sent down to Hades’
sway;
Themselves to all the birds and the dogs became a prey,
Since first, in anger parting (it was the will of Jove), 5
The king of men, Atrides, and divine Achilles strove.
Who of the gods incited to strife these rulers twain ?
‘The son of Zeus and Leto. For with the king amain
Enraged, upon t y_he sent a sickness-diré;—
The people failed and perished, infected by its fire, 10
Because“Atrides Chryses, the priest, had held in scorn

#

When to the rapid vessels of th’ Achaians his course was

borne,—

A priceless ransom beazing to loose his daughter’s bands,~—

With garlands of far-darting Apollo in his hands

(Hung from a golden sceptre); th’ Achaians all he
prayed, 15

But most the two Atrida whom all the folk obeyed:

*The Greek patronymics in des were used as a sort of
surname and mean son of or descendant of; thus, Pelides
means, son of Peleus; Atrides, son of Atreus; but Aiak-
ides, descendant of Aiakos.

7
8 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“Atride and ye others, well-greaved Achaian bands,

May the gods who hold Olympus bestow upon you
hands

To ruin Priam’s city and homeward safe to fare;

But free my cherished daughter and take the price I
bear, 20

Thus reverencing far-darting Apollo, Zeus’s son.”

Then all the other Achaians said that ’t were better

done

To hold the priest in honour and take the splendid prize;—

Yet this was nowise pleasing in Agamemnon’s eyes,

Who evilly dismissed him—a menace on his lips: 25
“Old man, let me not meet you among these hollow
ships;

For if to-day you linger, or to-morrow here shall see,
The scepter and the garland of the god no shield shall be.
But her I will not ransom till age upon her come;—
Far from her native country, within my Argive home, 30
She at the locm shall labour, her hands my bed adorn.
But go, nor rouse my anger, that safe be your return.”
He spoke; the ancient, fearing, obeyed the stern decree
And silent sought the shore of the many-sounding sea,
Then prayed, when hehad wandered afaruponthefshore, 35
A prayer to King Apollo whom well-haired Leto bore.
“Hear me, with bow of silver, who watch o’er Chrysa’s
land,
Who rule o’er sacred Killa and Tenedos command,
Smintheus! If e’er a temple, grateful to you, I raised,
And there the thighs well-fattened of goats and bullocks
blazed, 40
Accomplish what I pray you, master of hopes and fears,
Avenge me on the Danaans with arrows for my tears.”
He praying, spoke, and Phcebus Apollo heard his claim
And left the Olympian summits, his heart with ire aflame,
With bow upon his shoulders and quiver arching 0’er;—45
The shafts clanged on the shoulders of him who angered
sore,
While he was moving onward; like to the night he came,
Then sat far from the vessels and shot a shaft of flame;
And dire the sounding clangour rose from its silvery bow.

qu
BOOK I 9

Swift dogs and mules infected first felt the fatal blow, 50
But next a pointed arrow to man himself he turned,
And thick the pyres with corpses ever in radiance burned.
Nine days among the army the shafts divine were
loosed,
The tenth, to meet in council Achilles called the host;
For white-armed Hera moved him and urged the host to
call; 5
She sorrowed for the Danaans because she saw them fall.
But when the noise and tumult of gathering were re-
pressed,

Among them swift Achilles rose and the throng addressed:
“ Atrides, it beseems us, across the wandering sea,
To turn our faces homeward if threatened death we

flee. 60
Since thus amid th’ Achaians disease and warfare rage,
Let us consult some augur, consult some priestly sage,
Or one who deals in visions (for dreams from Zeus tran-
spire),
Who aay unfold the cause of Phcebus Apollo’s ire; 65
If he is wroth by failure of hecatomb or prayer,
Or if steam of goats or lambkins may turn to us his care
To ward off this destruction which strengthens while it
oes.”
This said, he sat. Then Kalchas, the son of Thestor,
rose,
By far the best of augurs, the present wellhe knew, 70
And well the past and future were laid before his view;
He led th’ Achaian vessels the sea to Ilion drave
By secrets of foreknowledge Phoebus Apollo gave.
With friendly accents speaking, to him replied the seer:
‘ "You order me, Achilles, O man to Zeus most dear, 75
The anger of far-darting King Apollo to unfold.
That will I say, but promise and let an oath be told
That you will give protection fairly with words and hands;
For I redoubt his anger, who rules the Argive bands,
And whom th’ Achaians bow to. A king is mightier
far 80
Than is a private person when clashing passions jar;
For, though his wrath a season may seem to pass away,
10 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He hides it in his bosom till, on some fitting day,
He may perfect his vengeance. But speak, if you will

33.

save.
Then answered fleet Achilles, “Tell boldly what you
have 85

Of message sent from heaven. I by Apollo swear,
Beloved of Zeus, inspiring the oracles you bear
The Danaans, that, while living and while the earth I

view,
None, by the hollow vessels, shall lay harsh hands on you,
Not one of all the Danaans, though it Atrides be; go

By far the best and bravest of the Achaians he.”
Emboldened, then, the blameless diviner answered

now:

“°Tis not that he reproaches for hecatomb or vow,

Yet for his priest dishonoured by Agamemnon’s scorn,

Who loosened not his daughter nor took the ransom
borne. 95

For this Apollo plagued you and still will smite amain,

Nor yet of your destruction the heavy fates restrain,

Till to her cherished father, unransomed and unbought,

You give his bright-eyed daughter, and till, to Chrysa

brought,
You offer in his honour a sacred hecatomb: 100
Then he, appeased and softened, may mitigate your
doom.”

This said, he sat. The hero, Atrides, touched by pain,
Wide-ruling Agamemnon among them rose again;
His heart was full of anger, his eyes, like sparkling fire,
And, evilly eying Kalchas, the first, he voiced his ire: 105
“ Augur of evils, never you spoke fair words to me,
But always showed rejoicing in evil prophecy.
No good word spoke you ever, no word of cheerfulness;
And now, Heaven’s message bearing, the Danaans you
address,
And say, that by Apollo these heavy griefs were laid, 110
Because I scorned the ransom for Chryses’ daughter paid;
Since much I wish to keep her, in Argos, by my side,
Preferred to Klytemnestra, my lawful-wedded bride;
And, measured with the matron, she nowise lesser stands,
BOOK I II

In form, in mind, in stature and the labours of her
hands, 115

But I will give back freely, if better that shall be,—

I'd rather save the people than their destruction see;

But have, without delaying, a gift for me prepared,

Lest I, of all the Argives, remain without reward;

For that were not beseeming. Turn thither, all, your
cares, 120

For now the gift allotted to me another bears.”

Then fleet, divine Achilles him in reply addressed:

“Most glorious Atrides, of all the greediest,

How shall the generous-minded Achaians give to you,

Since all the joint possessions remain so poor and few ? 125

Of what the cities yielded each man received his store,

And it would shame the people to part the spoils once
more.

But now release the maiden and thus the god obey,

And you th’ Achaians triple and fourfold will repay,

If some time Zeus shall grant us the glory to destroy, 130
. Amid her hoarded treasures, the well-walled city, Troy.”
To him in making answer King Agamemnon said:
“Not thus, though strong and godlike, Achilles, be

misled,

Since you shall not deceive me and you shall not per-
suade.

Or do you wish and order me to release this maid, 135

While you retain your booty, while I am reft of mine?
‘But if the great Achaians another gift assign,
See that its worth be equal, for if not such they bear,
A gift from you or Ajax or Odysseus will I tear;
And let him writhe in anger to whom I come amain; 140
But, to these things returning, we will consult again.
Yet now a deep-black vessel draw to the sea divine,
The hecatomb place on her and rowers fit assign;
Embark the bright-cheeked maiden herself, Chryseis fair,
And let some noble leader the vessel’s guidance bear,—145
Idomeneus or Ajax, Odysseus great or you,
Most terrible Pelides, to make the offering due,
That thus on us Apollo look with propitious eye.”

But, gazing on him grimly, fleet Achilles made reply:
12 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

‘* Shame-clad as with a garment, with mind accursed by
greed, 150

Who of th’ Achaians freely will give your accents heed,

For you a message carry or strive with men in war ?—

To fight the Trojan spearmen I came not from afar,

For me they never injured, nor plundered herds nor

fields,
Where Phthia, nurse of heroes, abundant fruitage
yields, 155

Parted by shadowy mountains and by the echoing sea;
Yet you, O vilely shameless, we followed generously,
For your behoof, dog-visaged, demanding vengeance due
From those of Troy who injured both Menelaos and you;
But this you have forgotten, for this no more you care, 160
Yet threaten to your treasures my hard-won spoil to bear,
For which I toiled and laboured, and th’ Achaians’ chil-
dren gave.
And not a booty equal to yours shall e’er I have
Whenever the Achaians well-peopled Troy have gained,
Though of these heavy combats the most my hands sus-
tained; 165
Yet when the spoil was parted yours was the greater far,
And I went to my vessels with little, worn by war.
But now I go to Phthia, far better, through the foam,
To guide my curve-bowed vessels back on their pathway

home;
And, when I am dishonoured, though here you long re-
main, 170

T think that little glory or wealth your force will gain.”
Then to him Agamemnon, the king of men, replied;

“ Fly then, if moved by weakness or urged by sullen pride;

And I will never ask you here in my cause to move,

Others will do me honour, and most, all-knowing Jove. 175

You are by me most hated of the kings, Zeus-nurtured,
here,

For e’er to you are discord and wars and strifes most dear;

Though you in strength are mighty, a god gave that, I
trow,—

Home, then, with your companions and with your vessels,
8°:—-
BOOK I 13

Rule o’er your Myrmidonians, I care not what you do, 180
I do not heed your anger, but threaten this to you:
Since thus from me Chryseis Phoebus Apollo tore,

I will with my companions and with my ship restore,

But I fair-cheeked Briseis, though to your tent I go,
The gift the people gave you, will take, that you may

know 185
How much my power is greater, and that none else shall
dare
To boast himself my equal, his might with mine com-
pare.” ,
He spoke; pain struck Pelides, and, in his shaggy
breast,

Thoughts of uncertain import for dubious action pressed;
Whether, his keen blade drawing, he from its sheath
should bare, 190
And part the throng before him and slay Atrides there,
Or cast restraint on frenzy and grief and ire control.
While in his doubt he lingered, convulsed in mind and

soul,

His mighty sword unsheathing, Athena came from
heaven,

Sent forth by white-armed Hera, whose love to both was
given. 195

She stood behind Pelides and seized his yellow hair,

To him alone appearing, no other saw her there,

Achilles, in confusion, turned, and to him was known

At once Athena Pallas, and dire her two eyes shone.

He then addressed the goddess with winged words

amain: 200

“ Child of Zeus zgis-bearing, why come you here again ?

That you the outrage given by Agamemnon view?

But this I tell you plainly, and time will prove it true,

I think: his death comes quickly, borne onward by his

pride.”
To him the fierce-eyed goddess, Athena, then re-
plied: 205

“‘ T come to still your anger, if you will hear, from heaven,

Sent forth by white-armed Hera whose love to both is given.

But come, cease from your warring, nor sword in hand be
borne,
14 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet utter your reproaches in stinging words of scorn.
For this I tell you plainly, and time shall prove it true: 210
That thrice these splendid presents shall be assigned to
ou
For this affront; but hearken, and be my words obeyed.”
Then fleet-of-foot Achilles in answer to her said:
“Tis well and seemly, goddess, your mandates to obey,
*Tis better far, though reason is thralled by anger’s
sway. 215
The gods to him will listen who bows at their command.”
Then on the hilt of silver he laid his heavy hand,
And back within its scabbard he thrust his mighty sword,
Thus heeding and obeying Pallas Athena’s word.
But she went to Olympus, within the high abodes 220
Of Zeus, the zgis-bearing, among the other gods.
Achilles then Atrides with harsher words addressed,
Not yet his wrath abated nor ceased within his breast:
“Sunk deep in drunken slumber, eyes with a dog’s
well paired,
A deer’s heart in your bosom, for fear of life you dared 225
Never to arm for battle beside the folk arrayed,
Nor with th’ Achaian nobles go into ambuscade.
In truth, it is far better, in th’ Achaians’ wide-spread
bands,
To take from him his booty who boldly you withstands.
King who devour your people, you rule men’s basest
caste, 230
Or, failing this, Atrides, such insult were your last.
But now I tell you plainly, and a mighty oath I swear
Upon this staff which never shall leaves nor branches
bear;
Since erst, among the mountains, the mangled trunk it
left,
’T will bloom not, for the metal its bark and foliage reft.235
Now by th’ Achaian judges that staff in hand is borne.
Who watch o’er Zeus’s justice; let that great oath be
sworn:
Whene’er to call Achilles all th’ Achaians’ sons desire
(And you can bring no succour, whate’er your grief or
ire),—
BOOK I 15

When many, falling, perish by Hektor slaying-men, 240
Then you, with inward fury, shall tear your soul in vain,
Since to the best Achaian you gave not honour due.”
Pelides spoke; his scepter upon the earth he threw
(With golden studs disparted)—and sat. Atrides’ rage
Burned on. Then rose up Nestor, persuasive-speaking
sage, 245
The Pylians’ clear-voiced spokesman, whose gracious
accents rung,
And speech more sweet than honey flowed gently from
his tongue.
(With whom two generations of men had known decline,
Before this, born and nurtured in Pylos, the divine;
The third one now obeyed him); he spoke in accents

bland: 250
“Ye gods, what great misfortune befalls th’ Achaian
land!

Priam and Priam’s children will feel abundant joy,
And much will laugh in spirit the other men of Troy,
When they learn of your contention in all these frenzied

jars
(Who tower in Danaan councils and who excel in
wars). 255

Yet listen; both are younger in years than those I know;

With braver men than you are I wandered long ago;

Nor did they prize me lightly. Ne’er have I seen such
men

As Dryas and Pirithoos, nor shall I see again

Kaineus and Polyphemos, Exadios, like a god, 260

[The son of Aigeus, Theseus, who like th’ immortals
showed.]

These men were best and strongest to whom earth nur-
ture brought,—

Were mightiest of mortals and with the mightiest fought;

The mountain-dwelling centaurs grandly they overcame—

With such I dwelt in converse when I from Pylos came 265

Far from my land; they called me, and I for them waged
war,

But none of living mortals might such a conflict bear.
16 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

They listened to my counsels and turned their minds
to me;

Now you, like them, obey me, for that would better be.

Nor you*, though high and noble, lay hand upon the

slave, _ 270
But leave, since for his present th’ Achaians’ children
gave;

Nor you fresh wrath, Pelides, to this contention bring,
Since not of equal honour with a scepter-bearing king,
To whom high Zeus gave glory. Though strength su-
preme you sway,
And goddess-born, yet better is he whom more obey. 275
Atrides, quench your anger; your wrath, I pray you, bar
From Achilles, great defense of th’ Achaians in evil war.”
To him King Agamemnon his answer thus addressed:
“ All that which you have spoken, old man, is seemliest.
But this man clearly wishes to be above us all, 280
O’er all to hold dominion and all the rest enthrall,
To give to all his precepts,—you cannot, then persuade.
Him if the gods eternal a man of war has made,
Do they, by this, permit him to voice affronts and pride ?”
Then, interrupting quickly, divine Achilles cried: 285
“Timid and worthless, truly, would I by men be named,
If in all things I yielded to what your pride proclaimed;
Enforce your will on others, you shall not rule o’er me,
No more to you, I pledge you, shall my obedience be.
Another thing I tell you, this in your bosom bear, 290
Never for any maiden shall my hands strike in war
For you or for another, since you this gift took back;
What other goods are lying in my ship swift and black
You shall not take. Attempt it, and let the people here
Know that your black blood quickly will flow around

my spear.” 295
While thus the two contended with words from angry
lips,

They rose and loosed the council held by th’ Achaian ships.

Pelides then his quarters and vessels equal-wrought,

With his loved friend, Patroklos, and their companions,
sought.

*Agamemnon,
BOOK I 17

A swift.ship then Atrides drew to the Ocean’s wave, 300
The hecatomb placed on her.and twenty oarsmen gave,
Fair-cheeked: Chryseis leading, to hera place assigned;—
Odysseus went as chieftain, a leader deft of mind.
While: they, the-ship ascending, sailed on the humid

tide,
Atrides called the people and ordered purified. 305
They made their lustrum, casting their defilement in
the foam,

Accomplished to Apollo a perfect hecatomb
Of-bulls and goats on altars on barren ocean’s shore;
The odour rose to heaven which whirling smoke-wreaths

bore.
While thus the army laboured; great Agamemnon’s
ire 10

Ceased not, which first Achilles menaced with hostile fire.
Yet he at once Talthybios and Eurybates addressed,
Who were his sacred heralds and helpers manifest.
“Go where Pelides’ quarters, the great Achilles’,
stand,
And lead fajr-cheeked Briseis, taking her by the hand, 315
And, if he will not give her, myself will seize by force,
Going.with many vassals; and that will be far worse.”
This said, he sent them forward, speaking imperiously,
And loath. they trod the shores of the ever-barren sea;
When to the tents and. vessels of the Myrmidons they
went, 320
‘Fhey found  Pelides resting by his black ship and tent;
And when Achilles saw them, ’twas not in joyful mood.
But they, abashed and fearful, before the monarch stood;
In no wise they addressed’ him nor into questions broke.
Yet be divined their purpose and thus the twain be-

-spoke: 325
“ Hail, heralds, whom the errands of Zeus and men
engage,

Come nearer; you I blame not, but Agamemnon’s rage;

He sent you-here to ravish Briseis from my hearth.

But come, divine Patroklos, and lead the maiden forth,

Give to these. two to lead her, and be they witness
then 330
18 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Before the happy godhezs. as well as mortal men,
Before this king makgnant. if ever Reed of me,
crs disgraceful death, shall be>—
He runs and raves in {esuy. knows not the wrong or might,
Nor how, beside dhe erly th’ Achaiins safe may
hg ont.” S88
Thus spake he, and Patrokles his comrade deat obeved.
And, from the cent, Brise:s. the faircheeked girl con-
veved,
And gave: they tw th’ Achaian vessels again returned:
u nwilling she went with them while seeret sormow burned.
But now Achilles, weeping, zpart his foorsteps bore 340
And sat far from his comrades upen the gray sea’s share,
Viewing the boundless ocean: full many 2 praver he
prared,
His hands tn supphtcation strerched for his mother’s aad.
“Mother, what time vou bore me, and Fate bref life

 
  

bestowed,
Olympian Zeus, high-thundering, to me high honour
owed: S48

And now he honours little, for Armdes shame prepares:
Wide-ruling Agamemnon my ravished present bears.”
Thus spoke he, worm by weeping; the words his
mother told,
Sitting in ocean's caverns beside her father ald.
Switt from the hoanm ocean ke whining mist she
swept, 3&S
And toak her seat before him, in silence, while he wepr;
Then, with her hand caressing, her thought in words
express:
“My chud. why this lamenting? What gnef throbs
in your breast:
Speak, hide not in your spirit—that both of us may

know.
Then Reet-ot-toor Achilles said, sighing deep with
woe; ass
“You know it; why this stery—well-known to you—
declare?

We went to sacred Thebd, Fetion’s city fairs—
BOOK I 19

That we destroyed and brought here the products of our
toil;

Among themselves th’ Achaians divided well the spoil,

And in Atrides’ portion fair-cheeked Chryseis placed. 360

But Chryses, then, far-darting Apollo’s sacred priest

Came to the rapid vessels of th’ Achaians brazen-dressed,

A priceless ransom bearing to loose his daughter’s bands,

With garlands of far-darting Apollo in his hands

(Hung from a golden scepter); th’ Achaians all he
prayed— 365

But most the two Atride,—whom all the folk obeyed.

The rest of the Achaians auspicious answer made—

To hold the priest in honour and take the splendid prize.

Yet this was nowise pleasing in Agamemnon’s eyes,

Who evilly dismissed him and menaces preferred. 370

The priest returned in anger, his prayers Apollo heard,

For him he loved full dearly. An evil shaft he sent

On th’ Argives, and the people in throngs to Hades went;

Through all the wide encampment of the Achaians fell

The shafts. The wise seer told us Apollo’s oracle; 375

Then I the first exhorted to pacify the god;

But anger seized Atrides; rising at once, he showed

His mind in words of menace, accomplished to his thought.

Her the quick-eyed Achaians’ swift ship to Chrysa
brought,

Bearing the god a present; but lately from my tent, 380

The sacred heralds, leading the maid Briseis, went,

Whom the sons of the Achaians in honour gave to me.

Yet lend your child assistance, if you an aid may be;

Going to high Olympus, implore great Zeus to heed,

If ever to him grateful, either in word or deed. 385

Oft in your father’s mansions I’ve heard you make the
boast

To Zeus in dark clouds shrouded, that of th’ immortal
host,

You only his degrading ruin to ward were fain,

When all the other Olympians would in firm bonds re-
strain,

Hera and eke Posidon, Pallas Athena, too.— 390
20 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

You, to.the Titan going, goddess, from fetters drew,
And called to great Olympus the hundred-handed thrall,
Whom. gods have named Briareus, all men Aigaion call
(For he in force was greater than-ever was his sire).
He sat down by Kronion, proud of his glory dire; 395
The happy gods feared greatly and strove no more to bind.
Now, sit by him, embracing his knees, call that to mind,
That he may wish the Trojan’s refuge and aid to be,
And push th’ Achaians backward upon the ships and sea
In slaughter, that the scourgings of’ the king all under-
go; 400
And: Atrides Agamemnon, wide-ruling, too, may know
His loss, when he dishonoured the Achaians’ first and
best.”
To him her answer Thetis, with falling tears, addressed:
“Alas, my child! Why rear you, bearing for evil fate!
Would that beside the vessels tearless and glad you
sate! 405

Since death impends before you to make your life most
brief,

You are now beyond all others short-lived and marked
by grief:

I bore you in-my mansions with evil fate and woe.—

To Zeus, in thunder joying, to Olympus clad in snow.

I go to tell this story,—it may be, grace obtain. 410

Bur, sit by your swift vessels and there in peace-remain,

Be-wroth.with the Achaians, but from all-war. abstain.

For yesterday to-Ocean, where the blameless Aithiops
dwell,

Zeus. went to grace a banquet, and all the gods as well;

The twelfth day to Olympus he will turn his footsteps
home. 415

Then_I will go to meet him within his brass-floored dome,

And then, his knees embracing, I think I may persuade.”

‘This said, she- went, but left him wroth for the well-

zoned maid

Whom they: by force had taken.—Odysseus now had come

‘To Chrysa, bearing with him the sacred hecatomb, 420

And when they entered safely the harbour deep and wide,

Placed in the sable vessel, they. laid their sails aside,
BOOK I 21

Took down the. shrouds, and quickly they stowed the
mast away,
And, bythe rowers driven, the’ ship came to her bay.
With care they tied their cables and cast their anchors
o’er, 425
Then landed from the vessel upon the ocean’s shore;
And for far-darting Phoebus the hecatomb brought there;
And from the ocean vessel came forth Chryseis fair.
Her to the altar leading, Odysseus, wiliest;
Gave to her cherished father and thus the priest ad-
dressed: 430
“ Chryses, from Agamemnon, the king'of men, I come
To lead to you your daughter, a sacred hecatomb
To sacrifice to Phoebus: for the Danaans, and the god
To placate, who the Argives smites now with baleful rod.”
Thus saying, he the maiden gave to the waiting seer,435
Who with deep-felt rejoicings received his daughter dear;
The hecatomb resplendent they,.for the god, in: haste,
Around the well-built altar in order duly placed,
Their hands in water cleansing, the barley meal dis-
played. 440
His hands for then uplifting, with fervour Chryses
rayed:
“ Hear, god with bow of silver, who watch o’er-Chrysa’s
land,
Who rule o’er sacred Killa and Tenedos command;
Before this, once you heard me, with grace my prayer re-

ceived,.
And, for my honour, greatly th’ Achaian - people
grieved; 445

Yet once again accomplish my hope to you expressed,

Remove now from the Danaans this unbeseeming pest.”
Thus spoke he, supplicating, Phoebus Apollo heard. —

But when they prayed and scattered the barley meal

prepared,
They drew the victims’ heads back and killed.and flayed
withal, 450

The thighs they next disparted and covered. with the caul,
Doubling,—then placed upon them raw lumps in ordered
line.
22 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The old man burned on split-wood and poured on spark-
ling wine;
Young men, beside him standing, the spits five-branching
turned,—
The viscera they tasted when well the thighs were
burned, 455
The rest cut into pieces, transfixed with spits, as due,
And carefully they roasted and then the whole withdrew,
And made the banquet ready, when they from labour
ceased,
And ate; the soul desired naught after the equal feast.
But when they felt the pleasure of drink and feasting
pall, 460
Youths crowned with wine the beakers and portions
gave to all,
But poured the first in goblets,* then passed the wine
along,—
They soothed the angered godhead the livelong day with
song;—
The youths of the Achaians the graceful song preferred,
Extolling Hekaergos;f and he with pleasure heard. 465
But when the sun departed, and darkness o’er themcrept,
Besides the vessel’s cables they stretched themselves and
slept,
And when rose-fingered Eos, child of the Morn, appeared,
To th’ Achaians’ wide-spread army the sable vessel
: steered;
Apollo Hekaergos gave to them favouring gales. 470
Their mast they now erected and spread their snowy
sails;
The wind filled well the mainsail, so that the purple wave,
Around the ship’s keel rushing, a mighty clamour gave;
And she ran through the billows and made the passage

home.
But when they to th’ Achaians’ wide-spreading host had
come, 475

*For a libation.
+The far-working—an epithet of Apollo.
BOOK I 23

High up their sable vessel upon the sands they drew,
And put long shores beneath her to hold erect and true,

Then they dispersed, directing to ships and tents their
ath.—

But fleet-of-foot Achilles abated not his wrath;
The Zeus-born son of Peleus by his swift vessels sate 480
And ne’er went to the council, which makes men famed
and great, '
Never to war; yet withered his heart in waste and wear,—
Remaining thus, he longed for the shout and thrill of war.

But when the twelfth day brightened before Aurora’s
flame,

The gods, who live forever, to high Olympus came, 485
Zeus first, but all together. Thetis did not forget
Her son’s desires but, rising from Ocean’s billows wet,

To Olympus and great heaven came with the early dawn,
And Kronides, wide-thundering, she found from all with-

drawn,
Seated on cleft Olympus, where the highest summits
stand. 490

She sat before him, seizing his knees with her left hand,
Below his chin her right hand she brought to aid her pleas,
And, suppliant, addressed him, the King, Zeus Kronides.
“O Father Zeus, if ever I aided you in heaven
By word or deed, then to me let this my prayer be
given;
Honour my son, whose life is the shortest fixed by fate,
Whom now King Agamemnon insults with pride and hate;
Taking his portion from him, he now enjoys the prize.
But let your hand avenge him, Olympian Zeus All-wise;
So long let victory hover about the Trojan name, —_ 500
Till th’ Achaians give him honour and thus enhance his
fame.”
Thus spoke she, yet cloud-gathering Zeus her no
answer bare,
But silent sat while Thetis clung to his knees in prayer,—
Thus, holding them full firmly, she spoke to him again:
“* Give me your promise surely and nod or thence ab-
stain; 505
24 THE ILIAD’ OF HOMER

(You have no fear before you) that I may clearly see

__ How much ’mid all the godheads'] shall dishonoured be.”
~ But to her, sighing deeply, cloud-gathering Zeus replied:

“Til work! Since thus you urge me to clash with Hera’s

pride,
Since with her words reproachful my peace she incom-
modes 510

And vexes with her quarrels among th’ immortal gods,
And says J help the Trojans and in battle interfere.
But now depart, delay not, lest Hera see you here.
By me this shall be cared for till all accomplished be.
And I will nod in promise, that you may trust in me; 515
For, with me and th’ immortals, the mightiest sign this
bears,
Revoked not by my wishes, and no deception wears;
That is accomplished ever for which my head I nod. ”
With black brows lowered Kronion to her the favour
showed;
The King’s ambrosial tresses a passing tremor took 520
Upon his head immortal, and great Olympus shook.
They counseled thus and parted; she then leaped from
the hight
Into the sea’s abysses, from Olympus shining bright;
But Zeus went to his mansions. And all the gods in turn
Rose from their seats to honour and grace their sire’s
return; 555
And no one dared to linger when his approach was known,
But all stood up before him, Thus he sat upon his throne.
And Hera, seeing, knew that in counsel he had whiled
With silver-footed Thetis, the ocean ancient’s child.
She then with sharp reproaches to Zeus Kronion said: 530
“Who of the gods, Sly-Minded, with you in secret
plead?
’Tis pleasant to you ever, no thought to me revealed,
To work your plans by secrets and mysteries concealed;
You never tell me freely what you in spirit hide.”
To her at once the Father of gods and men replied: 535
“ Hera, think not and hope not all my designs to see,
For they to you were riddles, though you my consort be.
BOOK. I 25

What things for you are fitting no one-shall sooner hear,

No one of men below us, no god in' heaven near;

But what I wish to think of when ftom the gods I go,—540

Ask: nothing of such secrets nor further’ seek to-know.”

To him then ox-eyed Hera, august, her answer made:

“Most dreadful son of Kronos, what words were those
you said ?

Never before I asked you nor of your plans inquired.

In quietude you pondered whate’er your heart de-
sired. 545

But now I fear me greatly that yow may be beguiled:

By silver-footed Thetis, the ocean ancient’s' child.

Early she sat beside you and clasped your knees in
prayer;

I think you promised surely to Achilles honour fair:

To strike, beside their vessels, full many Achaians
dead.” 550

To her, in making answer, Zeus cloud-compelling said:
“ Perverse, you aye suspect me, nor do I from you hide;
But naught your schemes will prosper, yet greater space

divide
You from my trust and favour; for you, ’twill harder be,
If thus, a grateful pleasure it ‘will aford to me. 555

But listen to my orders and sit in silence there,
No god upon Olympus to you will succour bear,
Approaching near, when on you my matchless hands are
laid.”
Thus spoke he; ox-eyed Hera, august, with fear obeyed
And took. her seat in silence, bending her stubborn
will. 560
The heavenly godheads murmured in Zeus’s mansions
still,
To them art-famed Hephaistos began to speak his best,
A balm to white-armed Hera’s, his cherished mother’s
breast:
“Such bane will bring destruction and woes as yet
unborne,
If you for mortal battles by deathless wrath are torn, 565
And to the gods bring tumult; no pleasure will there be
In banquet-hall nor feasting, when ill wins victory.
26 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

My mother I admonish, and she herself well knows,

No more my cherished father’s, great Zeus’s, will to oppose,
Lest he again reproach her and turn our feast to ill. 570
But if th’ Olympian lightener to cast us out shall will,
His thought will be accomplished, for he is mightier far.
But you with gentle accents a milder mood prepare.
And then, at once, th’ Olympian will grant the calm we

crave.

Thus spoke he and, uprising, tne double beaker
gave 575
To the hands of his dear mother and with these words
addressed:
“ Bear with your grief, my motner, sustain it, though
distressed,

Lest, dear one, I benold you veaten before my eyes;

When I can help in nothing, though wrung by agonies.

’Tis hard against th’ Olympian with hostile force to
stand. 580

When once before I struggled to guard you from his hand,

Seized by the foot, he threw me far from the house divine.

All day I fell, borne onward, but, with the day’s decline,

I fell in island Lemnos; and little life remained;

But there at once the Sintians raised me and enter-
tained.” 585

Thus spoke he; wnite-armed Hera, the goddess,

smiled, relieved,

And, smiling, from her offspring’s hard hand the cup
received.

Then, to the right hand going, for all the gods he poured,

Drawing the dulcet nectar out of the crater’s hoard.

And ceaseless shouts of laughter by the happy gods were

given, 592
As they saw Hephaistos hasting through the palaces of
heaven.
Thus all the day they reveled till the sun sank in the
west,
And naught the soul found wanting to grace the equal
feast,

Naught of the beauteous cithern which for Apollo rang,
And nothing of the Muses who with changing voices

sang. 595
BOOK I 27

But when the sun’s fire splendid descended to the deep,
Each one went to his mansion to find repose in sleep,
Where lame, renowaed Hephaistos for each a house

designed,

And wrought out his conceptions with a well-discerning
mind.

Olympian Zeus, the lightener, went to his own bed
where 600

Of old he slept in quiet wnen sweet s:eep found him there;
Going there, he slept, and Hera, the gold-throned, slum-
bered near.

BOOK II.

THE VISION. BOIOTIA.

‘The other gods immortal and men who horses keep
Slept all the hours of darkness, but Zeus had no sweet
sleep;
But thought how, to Achilles, due honour he might pay,
How many of the Achaians by their vessels he might slay.
And while in thought he pondered it seemed the best
design 5
To send to Agamemnon a Vision full malign;
To that his thoughts addressing, winged words fell from
his lips:
“Go ad destructive Vision, to th’ Achaians’ rapid
ships,
Seek Atrides Agamemnon’s quarters besiae the strand,
Announce to him distinctly all things as I command. 10
Tell him to arm th’ Achaians, long-haired, and all employ;
For now to him ’tis given to take wide-streeted Troy;
For the gods who hold Olympus no longer discord tears,
But all have changed their purpose, subdued by Hera’s
prayers;
And for the Trojan people are many woes prepared.” 15
He said; the Vision started when it the order heard.
28 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And:to the rapid vessels of th’ Achaians quickly went,

To Atrides Agamemnon and found him in his tent

Inslumber, and around him ambrosial sleep was thrown;

Above his head it hovered, like Nestor, Neleus’son, 20

And-whom, among the elders, Atrides deemed the' best;

Resembling him, the Vision divine the king addressed:

“Sleep you, O son of Atreus, horse-tamer, fierce in

war?

It seenis:not:a man of counsel unbroken sleep to share,

To:whomthe folk are given, who rules so great a care. 25

Now listen to me quickly; Jove’s messenger to you

I come; though he is distant, he shields and pities, too.

He bids you arm th’ Achaians, long-haired, and all
employ;

For now to you ’tis given to take wide-streeted Troy;

For the gods who hold Olympus no longer discord

tears, )
But all have changed their purpose, subdued by Hera’s
prayers;
And; o’er’ the Trojans hanging, are ills by Zeus de-
signed.

And let not Lethe seize you, but keep this in your mind,
When'sweetly soothing Slumber deprives you of her care.””
Thus speaking, it departed and left the monarch

there, 35

Thinking of what the future would bring to disarray.

He fondly hoped to capture Priam’s city on that day,

He did not know the counsels designed by Zeus all-wise,

Who soon would bring confusion with weighty woes and
sighs:

On Trojans and on Danaans in battles stoutly gained. 40

He' woke-from’ sleep; but round him the voice divine
remained.

He'sat-erect and put on his tunic fair and new,

Soft in‘its folds, and round him his ample mantle threw;

Beneath his feet bright-shining bound his fair sandals

fast,
His silver-studded falchion next ’neath his shoulders
cast. 45

Hetook his father’s scepter, forever undecayed,

ae
BOOK II 29

And with it sought the vessels,of th’ Achaians. brazen-
clad.
And now the goddess Eos.scaled great Olympus’
hight,
To Zeus and all th’ immortals, announcing coming light;
The ,king enjoined the heralds, whose piercing voices
blare, 50
To.summon to,a. council th’ Achaians with long hair;
They heralded the council, which then convened in haste.
The council of the elders, great-minded, first. was
placed.
Beside the ship of Nestor, the monarch Pylos-bred;
And he,* who called together, with prudent caunsel. led. 55
“ Hear, friends, a godlike Vision in sleep came to mine
eyes,
Amid the night ambrosial; its nature, form and size
Resemblance most to Nestor, the man divine, possessed.
Above my head it hovered, to me these.words addressed:
Sleep you, O. son of Atreus, .horse-tamer, fierce in
war? 6o
It seems.not a man of counsel.unbroken sleep to share,
To whom the folk are given, who rule so great a care.
Now listen to me quickly; Jove’s messenger-to,you
I.come;. though. he is distant, he shields. and. pities, too,
He bids you arm th’ Achaians,,long-haired, and,all em-
ploy; 65
For now,to you ’tis given to take wide-streeted Troy;
For the gods who hold Olympus no longer discord tears,
But all have changed their purpose, subdued by,Hera’s
prayers;
And, o’er the Trojans hanging, are ills by Zeus designed,
This, when you wake, forget not but guard it.in your
mind.”’ “FO
Thus saying, it, fying; left. me, and sweet sleep fled afar.
But come, let us th’ Achaians incite and arm for war.
I first with words. will tempt them, so far as prudence.lie,
And bid them with the vessels of many banks to fly;
But you from divers stations with cogent words op-

pose.” 75

*Agamemnon.
30 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus saying, himself he seated. Among them Nestor
rose,
The king who, ruling Pylos, a sandy realm possessed;
And he, their weal desiring, harangued them and ad-
dressed:

“O friends, ye Argive leaders and who dominion hold,
If another of th’ Achaians had of this vision told, 80
I would have called it falsehood and shunned the specious

snare;
But now he saw who boasts him the Achaians’ best by far.
So come, let us assemble th’ Achaians’ sons for war.”

He said and from the council to wend his way began;

The sceptered monarchs, rising, obeyed the leader’s
plan, 85

And the people hastened forward. As the tribes of
swarming bees

Come from a cleft rock ever with new activities,

And spread in flying clusters upon the flowers of spring,

Now here, now there they gather and fly on vagrant wing.

Thus many nations, coming from vessel and from tent go

Before the low shore, ordered in troops, to council went;

Among them Rumour wandered, the burning voice of
Fame,

Zeus’ messenger, and urged them, and they together came

The council surged in tumult, the earth beneath them
groaned,

Pressed by the weight of people whose noise confused
and stunned;

The clamour of nine heralds repressed each ill-timed
word,

That the voices of the monarchs, Zeus-nurtured, might be
heard.

With moil the folk were seated and kept in forced repose,

And when they ceased their tumult, King Agamemnon

rose,
Holding aloft the scepter which Hephaistos, labouring,
wrought, 100
And Hephaistos Zeus Kronion, the King, a present
brought;

But Zeus gave it to Hermes who keen-eyed Argus killed;
BOOK II 31

King Hermes gave to Pelops, in driving horses skilled;
Then Pelops gave to Atreus, his people’s guide and stay,
And Atreus, dying, left it to flock-rich Thyestes’ sway; 105
Again, Thyestes left it in Agamemnon’s hand,

Full many an island province and all Argos to command.
Supported by this scepter, he to the Argives said:

“O friends, ye Danaan heroes, servants of Ares dread,
Zeus Kronides full firmly has bound me ina snare,— 110
The harsh one, who once promised, and confirmation

bare,
That I should ruin Ilion well-walled and thence return;
But now he weaves deception and orders me to turn
To Argos without glory, since many found death with
me.
But this to Zeus prepotent a source of joy willbe; 115
Ere now to many cities he brought their fatal hour,
And others yet will ruin, for his is mightiest power.
Yet this disgrace the future to coming men will bear,—
Tell how the great Achaians waged unsuccessful war,
And fought a weaker people, but could in naught sub-
due. 120
For if the Achaians and Trojans desired a treaty true,
And the Trojans all were numbered—who by their
hearths remain,—
And we of the Achaians were ranged in groups of ten,
Should we each ten a Trojan the wine to pour assign,
Many a group were lacking a man to pourthe wine. 125
So much a greater number th’ Achaian people tell
Than the unaided Trojans who within the city dwell;
But allies from many cities, spear-wielding men, come

now,

Who strive with me full strongly, nor will their force
allow

Me, though I wish, to ruin well-peopled Ilion. 130

Already, in their circuit, nine years of Zeus have gone,

The vessels’ wood has rotted, the cordage, loosened, falls,

Our wives and tender children sit waiting in our halls.

We leave the work unfinished which hither turned our
way;

But come, as I have spoken, let all of us obey; 135
32 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

For flight to our loved country let us the ships.employ;
Not yet to us ’tis given to take wide-streeted Troy.”
Thus spoke he; in all bosoms the secret soul he stirred,
Even among the masses around who had not heard.
The crowd heaved like long billows, upon th’ Icarian

sea 140
Impelled by Euros, Notos, from Jove’s clouds rushing
free,

Or, as when rising Zephyr moves the deep field of grain,
In rapid flight descending, and the ears bow in his train;
Thus was all the throng in motion. They rushed with
sounding cry
To the ships, and, from their trampling, a dust cloud
mounted high; 145
They called to one another to seize the ships in line,
And draw them from their stations down to the sea divine.
They cleaned the holds; the shout of the home-bound
rose to heaven;
They took away the shorings beneath the vessels.driven.
Though Fate denied, the Argives a quick return had
blessed, 150
If Hera to Athena had-not these words addressed:
“O gods, Unconquered, daughter of aegis-bearing
ove,
Do o the Argives homeward fly to the earth they love?
To Priam and the Trojans do they leave—a boast and

bey
The beauteous Argive Helen, for whom, besieging
Troy, 155

Full many Achaians perished far from their native land?
But go now to the brass-clad Achaian people’s band;
With gentle accents speaking, each, every man restrain,
Nor let their rocking vessels be drawn down to the main.”
Thus spoke she, and Athena, fierce-eyed, her words
obeyed. 160
Leaving the Olympian summits, her flying path she made;
[Swift to the rapid vessels of th’ Achaians her flight de-
clined],
There she found Odysseus standing, equal to Zeus ni
mind;
BOOK II 33

Untouched his sable vessel, well-banked; he stood apart,
Since pain with her oppression swept o’er his mind and
heart; 165
Then, standing close beside him, fierce-eyed Athena said:
“‘Qdysseus many-planning, Laertiades Zeus-bred,
Thus to your cherished country, thus homeward do you fly
In your ships with many benches falling tumultuously ?
To Priam and the Trojans do you leave—a boast and
joy— 170
The beauteous Argive Helen, for whom, besieging Troy,
Full many Achaians perished far from their native land?
But go at once, and stop not, to th’ Achaian people’s band;
With gentle accents speaking, each, every man restrain,
Nor let their rocking vessels be drawn down to the
main.” 175
Thus spoke she; comprehending the words the goddess
spoke,
He ran, threw off his mantle, which straight a herald took,
The Ithacan his comrade, Eurybates by name.
But himself to Agamemnon, the son of Atreus, came
And took th’ ancestral scepter, forever undecayed, 180
And with it sought the vessels of th’ Achaians brazen-clad.
Whatever king or noble he met with in his course,
Greeting, he halted near him and held by mild discourse:
“Strange man! It does not fit you to seem by fear
distressed,—
But you yourself be seated and help to seat the rest. 185
The purpose of Atrides you do not know aright;
He tempts you now, but quickly th’ Achaians’ sons will
smite.
All did not, in the council, hark to his varied tones;
Take care lest he in anger injure th’ Achaians’ sons.
And mighty is the anger of this Zeus-nurtured king, 190
And Zeus all-knowing loves him, and Zeus is honour’s
spring.”
But when he met a common who shouted in the crowd,
He struck him with the scepter and rated him aloud:
“ Unhappy man!—Sit quiet and list while others speak,
Others who are your betters, for you are base and
weak; 195
36 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Driving you from the council with ignominious stripes.”
This said, he, with the scepter, smote back and shoul-

ders broad;
Thersites writhed in anguish while copious tear-drops
flowed. 260

Where struck the golden scepter a bloody tumour showed
Upon his back, but silent he kept his seat in fear;
Pain-racked, he gazed in stupor and wiped away a tear.
The people, though they pitied, a theme for laughter
made,
And each looked to his neighbor and thus his thoughts
conveyed: 265
“Ye gods, ten thousand blessings Odysseus brings
from far,
Devising useful counsels and waging skillful war;
And now among the Argives has done by far his best,
Since he this foul reviler’s reproaches has suppressed.
Not for awhile, ’tis certain, his mind will feel the stings,270
With contumelious speeches, to mock and scoff at kings.”
Thus spoke the crowd; Odysseus, city-destroyer,
stood,
Holding the scepter; (by him fierce-eyed Athena showed
In aspect like a herald and the people’s noise repressed
That the sons of the Achaians, the last as well as best 275
Should hear what words were spoken and well the counsel
heed,)
But he, their weal desiring, addressed them all and said:
“Atrides, King, th’ Achaians now seem to wish the first,
Among word-speaking mortals to make the last and
worst;
They do not keep the promise which once they freely
gave, 280
When they came here from Argos, that nurse of horses
brave,
To return when they had conquered the well-walled Ilion.
But now, like tender children or widows, they bemoan
Their fate with one another and wish for their return,
Yet, truly, it is shameful to go back thus forlorn. 285
Though, one, who from his consort a short month must
remain,
BOOK II 37

Bears ill the many-benched vessel which wintry storms
detain,

And the angry sea whose billows rise round him far and
near.

The ninth year, in its rolling, has found us waiting here.

Thus, I fret not when th’ Achaians by their curve-bowed
ships are grieved; 290

’Tis shameful long to linger or return with hope deceived.

Bear up, friends, wait a season, and time full soon will
show

If Kalchas, in divining, told us the false or no,

For well we know; all witness the wonder of that day,

(Except those whom the Keres* of death have borne
away), 29

When once th’ Achaian vessels gathered by Aulis’ shore,

And to Priam and the Trojans a weight of evils bore;

We on the sacred altars, which round a spring were made:

Our hecatombs all perfect for the immortals laid

Beneath a beauteous plane-tree, whence limpid water
flowed; 300

Then came a mighty wonder; a dreadful dragon glowed

With dark-red back—th’ Olympian himself sent it to

light—

And, darting from the altar, rushed to the plane-tree
dight.

There were eight tender sparrows which in the top bough
hung,

Hid in bone the ninth was the mother who bore
the young. 305

But he devoured them, wailing in pitiable fear;

And the mother flew about him, mourning her offspring
dear;

His folds her wing encircling, heseized her while she cried,

Devoured the sparrow’s young ones and the mother bird
beside.

But was famous through the godhead who had the marvel
shown, 310

For the son of wily Kronos transformed him there to
stone;

*Fates.
36 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Driving you from the council with ignominious stripes.”
This said, he, with the scepter, smote back and shoul-
ders broad;
Thersites writhed in anguish while copious tear-drops
flowed. 260
Where struck the golden scepter a bloody tumour showed
Upon his back, but silent he kept his seat in fear;
Pain-racked, he gazed in stupor and wiped away a tear.
The people, though they pitied, a theme for laughter

made,
And each looked to his neighbor and thus his thoughts
conveyed: 265
“Ye gods, ten thousand blessings Odysseus brings
from far,

Devising useful counsels and waging skillful war;

And now among the Argives has done by far his best,

Since he this foul reviler’s reproaches has suppressed.

Not for awhile, ’tis certain, his mind will feel the stings,270

With contumelious speeches, to mock and scoff at kings.”

Thus spoke the crowd; Odysseus, city-destroyer,

stood,

Holding the scepter; (by him fierce-eyed Athena showed

In aspect like a herald and the people’s noise repressed

That the sons of the Achaians, the last as well as best 275

Should hear what words were spoken and well the counsel
heed,)

But he, their weal desiring, addressed them all and said:

“Atrides, King, th’ Achaians now seem to wish the first,

Among word-speaking mortals to make the last and
worst;

They do not keep the promise which once they freely
gave, 280

When they came here from Argos, that nurse of horses
brave,

To return when they had conquered the well-walled Ilion.

But now, like tender children or widows, they bemoan

Their fate with one another and wish for their return,

Yet, truly, it is shameful to go back thus forlorn. 285

Though, one, who from his consort a short month must
remain,
BOOK II 37

Bears ill the many-benched vessel which wintry storms
detain,

And the angry sea whose billows rise round him far and
near.

The ninth year, in its rolling, has found us waiting here.

Thus, I fret not when th’ Achaians by their curve-bowed
ships are grieved; 290

"Tis shameful long to linger or return with hope deceived.

Bear up, friends, wait a season, and time full soon will
show

If Kalchas, in divining, told us the false or no,

For well we know; all witness the wonder of that day,

(Except those whom the Keres* of death have borne
away), 295

When once th’ Achaian vessels gathered by Aulis’ shore,

And to Priam and the Trojans a weight of evils bore;

We on the sacred altars, which round a spring were made,

Our hecatombs all perfect for the immortals laid

Beneath a beauteous plane-tree, whence limpid water
flowed; 300

Then came a mighty wonder; a dreadful dragon glowed

With dark-red back—th’ Olympian himself sent it to

light—

And, darting from the altar, rushed to the plane-tree
dight.

There were eight tender sparrows which in the top bough
hung,

Hid in the leaves, the ninth was the mother who bore
the young. 305

But he devoured them, wailing in pitiable fear;

And the mother flew about him, mourning her offspring
dear;

His folds her wing encircling, heseized her while she cried,

Devoured the sparrow’s young ones and the mother bird
beside.

But was famous through the godhead who had the marvel
shown, 3I0

For the son of wily Kronos transformed him there to
stone;

*Fates,
38 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And we stood by and wondered at such a mark of doom

Since the marvels of th’ immortals had graced our heca-
tomb.

At once the augur Kalchas the oracle laid bare:

‘Why do ye stand in silence, Achaians with long hair, 315

Since all-wise Zeus this wonder of power has here dis-
played,

Long ere it be accomplished, whose glory ne’er shall fade ?

As the snake devoured eight fledglings and the bird itself
beside,

And the ninth one was the mother who bore the young
which died;

Thus we so many summers the works of war shall
make, 320

But,on the tenth,the city with spacious streets will take.’

Thus spoke he in his wisdom, and now we reach the end.

But come, well-greaved Achaians, here let us all attend

Till Priam’s mighty city in our possession lies.”

Thus spoke he, and the Argives sent up resounding

cries 325

(The shoutof the Achaiansround the ships in echoes ran),

Approving much the counsel of Odysseus, godlike man.

But next Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, rose and said:

“Ye gods, as though addressing children your speech

has sped,—

Tender and weak, who never the works of war upbore.330

But where go now our compacts, and where the oaths
we swore ?

In fire our plans would vanish, the cares by men achieved

Our unalloyed libations, the right hands we believed!

In vain with words we struggle, we find no succour near.

Though many days have passed us since we have waited
here. 35

Atrides, now, as erstwhile, to constant plans give heed,

And to well-stricken battles the valiant Argives lead;

Let those Achaians perish, if one or two or three,

Who weave their plots in secret (but fulfilment will not be)

To bend their steps to Argos before events shall show 340

Whether Zeus zxgis-bearing has promised false or no.

’
BOOK Ii 39

I tell you that Kronion prepotent gave consent

That day, when on the rapid vessels the Argives went;

Bearing the Trojans slaughter and Keres o’er the wave,

Lightning upon the right hand, auspicious signs he
gave. 345

Wherefore let no one hasten the homeward path to keep,

Before he with some Trojan’s imprisoned consort sleep,

Avenging thus the outrage to Helen and her woe.

But if any one wish greatly back to his home to go,

Let him seize on his vessel, well-banked for oars and
black, 350

That sooner than the others his death and fate he track.

But, king, yourself consider and heed the counsel well,

Nor be these words rejected which I have yet to tell;

Assign, O Agamemnon, to clan and tribe each man,

So tribe may aid the tribe, and clan support the clan. 355

If this you do adroitly, and the Achaians list to you,

You shall know the worthless leaders and the worthless
people, too,

And who of them are valiant, for each will fight alone,

And know if by Heaven’s order you take not Ilion,

Pr by the: people’s vileness and want of skill dis-
played.” 360
In answer Agamemnon, the inionavch, to him said:

“ Once more, old man, the council of th’ Achaians you
subdue;

Would that to me Zeus Father, Athen’, Apollo, too,

Ten counsellors so skillful for the Achaians gave!

Thus soon should fall before me King Priam’s city
brave, 365

Seized by ourhands, and, captive, to her foundations riven.

But Kronion aegis-bearing sorrows to me has given,

Who to me endless quarrels and grave contentions bare,

For I and great Achilles strove o’er a maiden fair,

With angry words contending, but I began the wrath; 370

Yet if we join in counsel, no more delay of scath

Shall benefit the Trojans, though brief the time to bar.

Now go at once to dinner, that we prepare for war;

Let each man whet his spear well, brace well his shield as
meet,

Pe
40 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And fodder well his horses who speed with flying feet, 375
And, viewing well his chariot, prepare for strife the car,
Since we through all the daytime must toil in hated war.
For there will be no respite, how short soe’er it be,

Till night, in coming, lessens the men’s ferocity.

The shield-straps round men’s bosoms shall drip with

flowing sweat, 380
The hand which clasps the spear-shaft grow weak by toil
beset,

The horse shall sweat in drawing the polished car amain.
And I, apart from battle, will note whoe’er would fain

Stay by the curve-bowed vessels, and he most certainly
Shall not have power thereafter the dogs and birds to

flee.” 385
Thus he; the Argives shouted as the wave the high
cliff shocks,

Driven by flying Notos upon the beetling rocks;

But the waves forsake it never, though the many winds
which blow

Urge the whirling waters ever in eternal ebb and flow.

They rose, rushed to the vessels, dispersing near and
far, 390

Built fires amid their quarters and took their dinner there.

An offering to the godheads, born to eternal life,

Each made and prayed deliverance from death and Ares’
strife.

A five-year ox well-fattened great Agamemnon hight,

The king of men, to offer to Zeus of boundless might; 395

The chiefs of all th’ Achaians he called for counseling,

And first of all called Nestor, then Idomeneus, the King,

But next the two Ajaces with Tydeus’ son were joined,

The sixth one was Odysseus, equal to Zeus in mind.

But to him came unsummoned Menelaos, strong in
war, 400

For in his mind he knew well what toils his brother bare.

They now the ox encircled and the barley-meal displayed;

*Mid them great Agamemnon, in supplication said:

“High Zeus, the greatest, gathering dark clouds, the

air your home,
BOOK II 4l

Let us not see the sunset and let not darkness come, 405

Ere I cast prone before me King Priam’s burning hall,

And hostile fires enkindle so gate and roof-tree fall,

And cleave the breast-plate, broken by brass, on Hektor’s
breast;

While many of his companions, prone in the dust op-
pressed,

Around him lie and, gnashing, bite at the bloody sod.” 410

Thus spoke he; but Kronion gave not the fatal nod,

Yet he received the offering and gave unenvied toil.

When they had prayed devoutly and cast the barley-meal,

They drew the victim’s head back and killed and flayed

withal,
The thighs they next disparted and covered with the
caul, 415
Doubling,—then placed upon them raw lumps in order
borne,

And burned the whole on split-wood, from which the
leaves were shorn;

The viscera transfixing, above the fire they turned;

And tasted them to try them when well the thighs were
burned,

The rest cut into pieces, transfixed with spits, asdue, 420

And carefully they roasted and from the fire withdrew.

They made the banquet ready, when they from labour
ceased,

And ate; the soul desired naught after the equal feast.

But when the pleasure taken in meat and drink was gone,

To them Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, thus begun: 425

“ Atrides most illustrious, Agamemnon, king of men,

Let us no longer parley, let us no more abstain

From finishing the labour which God puts in our hands.

Butcomeand let the heralds call th’ Achaians, brass-clad

bands
To the vessels; through th’ Achaians, wide army let us
80, 430

That we enkindle sooner the flames of Ares so.”

He said, nor was neglectful Agamemnon, king of men;
At once the clear-voiced heralds he bade proclaim again
Acall to war and battle for th’ Achaians with long hair.
42 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And they proclaimed, and quickly the army gathered
there. 435

And those around Atrides, the Zeus-bred kings of fame,

Ran, in their stations parted; with them Athena came,

Holding the priceless aegis, deathless and ever young;

A hundred golden tassels upon its borders hung,

Well-woven all, a hundred oxen each one would buy. 440

She rushed through the Achaians, glaring with furious
eye,

And feed them on; and courage to the heart of each
one bare,

That all might battle bravely and wage unceasing war.

War thus became more pleasing, then, to that exiled band,

Than to go in hollow vessels to their dear fatherland. 445

And as the fire destroying the boundless forest sears

Upon the mountain’s summits, and afar its gleam ap-
pears;

Thus the flash from the bright metal of the moving
warriors given,

All-splendid in its radiance, rose through the air to
heaven.

As many as the birds of the many flying clans 450

Of geese or cranes or flocks of long-necked and noisy
swans,

Who dwell in Asian meadows or by Kayster’s springs,

Now here, now there they circle, exulting on their wings,

Or light beside the river while their clangour fills the

earth;

E’en thus the many nations from ships and tents
poured forth 455

To the plain which skirts Skamander. The nether
earth again

Flung back the sound terrific of the tramp of horse and
men.

A countless number stood in Skamander’s flowery meads,
As many as the blossoms and the leaves which springtime

breeds.
And as the many nations of troops of swarming
flies, 460

Which round the peopled sheepfold in time of spring arirr,
BOOK II 43

And when milk wets the milk-pails; so many Achaians
stood
In the plain against the Trojans, all-ferce to shed their
blood,
These were as when the herdsmen their flocks of goats
wide-spread
Divide with ease and surely when mingled in the

mead; 465
Thus here and there the chieftains the ordered ranks
reviewed

Before the fight; and with them King Agamemnon stood;
His eyes and head like Zeus’s, whom thunder pleases best,
In belted waist like Ares, like Posidon in his breast.
As mightily the bullock stands over all the herd, 470
And is above the oxen there gathered much preferred;
So Zeus that day Atrides a high distinction lent,
Made excellent ’mid many, ’mid heroes, eminent.

Now tell to me, O Muses, who share th’ Olympian

hall
(For you are sacred godheads, are present and know
all, 475

While we hear only rumour and know not to aver),
Who were the Danaan leaders and who the rulers were.
I could not tell their numbers, could not their names

define,

If ten tongues were my portion, if e’en ten mouths were
mine,

A voice by toil unbroken, a brazen heart for use, 480

Unless, Olympian Muses, of aegis-bearing Zeus
The daughters, fain you tell me how many to Ilion came.
Thus may I the vessel’s rulers and all the ships proclaim.

THE CATALOGUE OF THE SHIPS.

Peneleos and Litos the Boeotians
Ruled; Arkesilaos and Klonios 485
And Prothoenor ruled with them o’er those
Who dwelt in Hyria and in rocky Aulis,
Schoinos and Skolos and Eteonos, dowered
With many a highland forest, Thespia
44 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And Graia and Mykalessos spreading-wide,—
Who dwelt round Harma, Erythrai, Ilesios,

And those who held Eleon and Peteon

And Hyla and Okalea and Medeon,

The well-built city, Kopai and Eutressis

And Thisbé, of many doves, and those who dwelt
In Koronia and grassy Haliartos;—

Who held Plataia, and those who dwelt in Glissa,—

Who Hypothebai held, the well-built city,
Divine Onchestos and the beauteous grove
Of great Posidon; those who Arné held
Of many vines, who held Midia and
Nissa divine and, last of all, Anthedon.
These came with fifty ships, in each embarked
A hundred and a score Boeotian youths.

Those who dwelt within Aspledon and Minyean
Orchomenos,—these ruled Askalaphos
And Ialmenos, the sons of Ares, whom
Astyoché in the house of Aktor bore,
Azides (modest maid, to th’ upper rooms
Ascending), to strong Ares bore; but her
He met in secret. Thirty hollow ships
In order went with them.

The Phokeans ruled

Epistrophos and Schedios, the sons
Of great-souled Iphitos Naubolides;
Who Kyparissos held and rocky Python,
Krissa divine and Panopeus and Daulis,
Anemoria, Hyampolis who dwelt near,
Who by the sacred stream Kephissos dwelt,
Who held Lilalia, near Kephissos’ springs:
These followed on with forty sable ships.
They* kept the Phokeans in their ordered ranks,
Who near the Boeotians, on the left were armed.

Fleet Ajax, Oileus’ son, the Lokrians led
(Less, not so great as Ajax Telamon,
Yet less by far; true, he was small and wore
A linen corselet, but with spear surpassed
In skill the Hellens all and all th’ Achaians),
Who dwelt in Kynos and Kalliaros

*Epistrophos and Schedios,

490

495

500

505

510

515

520

525
BOOK II 45

In Opois and in Bessa, Skarpha and 530
Augeia pleasant, Tarpha, Thronion
And by the currents of Boagrios;
Him followed forty sable vessels of
The Lokrians who dwelt beyond Euboia
Divine.
Th’ Abantes, breathing strength, who held 535
Euboia, Chalkis and Eiretria
And Histiaia many-vined, Kerinthos
By the sea, a lofty city of Zeus;—
Who held Karystos and who dwelt in Styra:
These Elephenor led, of Ares’ line, 540
Son of Chalkodon, chief of the great-souled
Abantes. Him followed the Abantes fleet
Who backward combed their hair, good spearmen all,
And who desired, with ashen spears protruded,
To break the breastplates on their foemen’s breasts; 545
Him forty sable vessels followed there. ,
And those who held Athenai, well-built city,
Magnanimous Erechtheus’ state; him once
Athena nourished, daughter of Zeus (whom Earth,
The fruitful, bore), and placed him then in Athens, 550
In her own rich temple; there the youths
Of Athens her propitiate with bulls
And lambs, while pass the years revolving. These,
Again, Menestheus, the son of Peteus, led.
No man on earth was born the peer of him 555
To marshal horse for war, or men shield-bearing
(Nestor alone with him compared, for he
Was elder-born); him fifty black ships followed.
And Ajax led twelve ships from Salamis.
And, leading, stood where stood th’ Athenian
phalanx]. 560
And those who Argos held and Tiryns walled,
Hermioné and Asiné emplaced
In the deep gulf, and Trozen and Eionai
And Epidauros, rich in vines, and those
Achaian youths who held Aigina and 565
Mases; these Diomedes led, strong man
46 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Of war, and Sthenelos, the cherished son

Of Kapaneus renowned; Euryalos,

The third, a godlike man, the son of King

Mekisteus, son of Talaion,

Went with them, and Diomedes, strong in war,

Led all; and him black vessels eighty followed.
And those who held Mukenai, well-built city,

And wealthy Korinthos and well-built Kleonai,

Who held Orniai and Araithyrea

Pleasant, and Sikyon, where once Adrastos

Ruled, who dwelt in Hyperesia and

High Gonoessa, and who held Pellené

And dwelt round Aigios, and who dwelt in all

Aigialos and round wide Heliké:

Their ships King Agamemnon ruled,

Th’ Atrides; him, meanwhile, by far the most

And best of warriors followed; himself put on

The shining brass, exulting in the glory,

Because he shone above all other heroes

For he was best and led more men by far.
And those who held the land of Lakedaimon,

Enclosed by mountains cavernous, and Pharis

And Sparta, Messé, rich in doves, and those

Who held Brusiai, and Augiai pleasant,

And Amyklai and Helos, seaside city,

And those who dwelt in Laa, and dwe!t about

Oitylos: Menelaos, strong in war,

His* brother, ruled their sixty ships; but they

Were armed apart. ’Mid them he went himself,

Confiding in his own transcendent zeal,

Exhorting them to war; and most desired

To avenge the outrages and the woes of Helen.
And those who dwelt in Pylos and Arené

Pleasant and Thryos, ford of the Alpeios,

And well-built Aipy and Kyparisseis,

And who inhabited Amphigenia

And Pteleon and Dorion and Helos, |

(Twas here the Muses, meeting Thamyris,

The Thrakian him deprived of song, as from

Oichalia he came, from Eurytos,

*Agamemnon’s

575

580

585

599

595

600

605
BOOK II 47

Th’ Oichalian; for he asserted, boasting,
That he would conquer if the Muses, daughters
Of aegis-bearing Zeus, should sing; and they,
In anger, made him blind and took away 610
His song divine and caused him to forget
His art of striking on the dulcet cithern):
Gerenian Nestor, horseman, ruled o’er these;
With him went ninety hollow ships in order.
Those who Arkadia held beneath Kyllené’s 615
High mount, near by the tomb of Aipytos,
Where are the men who combat in close fight;
Who dwelt in Pheneos and Orchomenos,
Of many sheep, and Rhipé and Stratié,
And windy Enispé, Tegea who held 620
And loved Mantinea, and those who held
Stymphelos and dwelt in Parrhasié;
Their sixty ships Anchaios’ son ruled o’er,
King Agapenor; in each ship there sailed
Full many Arkadian men well skilled in war. 625
Himself, the king of men, great Agamemnon
Atrides gave to them well-bankéd ships
To cross the wine-dark sea; since they knew not
The ocean’s works. Who held Bouprasion.
And sacred Elis, and as many as 630
The fields of Hyrminé and Myrsinos
Extremest and the rock Olenia
And Alision contained: four rulers were
To them; and ten swift ships followed each chief,
And many Epeians embarked on them. But some 635
Amphimachos and Thalpios led; one, son
Of Kteatos, and one, of Eurytos
Aktorides; and some Amarynkides,
Diores mighty, ruled; but Polyxinos,
Like to a god, the fourth part ruled, the son 640
Of King Agasthenes Augeides.
Those from Doulichion and the sacred isles
Of the Echinades, which lie beyond
The sea, near Elis, were led by Meges
Phyleus’ son, equal to Ares; Phyleus was 645
48 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

His sire, the horseman loved by Zeus, who once
Had left Doulichion angered with his sire;
Him forty sable vessels followed there.

But next Odysseus led the Kephallens
Great-minded; Ithaké who held and shady 650
Neritos, and inhabited Krokylea
And rugged Aigilips, and those who held
Zakynthos, and who dwelt in Samos, and
Who held the continent and dwelt upon
Th’ objacent earth: o’er these Odysseus ruled 655
Equal to Zeus in counsel; him twelve ships,

With prows red-painted, followed.
But Thoas,
Andraimon’s son, th’ Aitolians led who dwelt
In Pleuron, Olenos, Pylené, Chalkis,
Beside the sea, and rocky Kalydon 660
(For then no more the sons of great-souled Oineus
Were; himself was dead, and yellow-haired
Meleager, too, was dead); to him in all
Twas given to rule th’ Aitolians; and, meantime,
Him forty black ships followed.
But the Kretans 665
Idomeneus, famed with the spear, led on,
Who Knosos held and Gortyn walled and Lyktos,
Miletos and Lykastos white and Phaistos
And Rhytion, all well-peopled towns, and others
Who dwelt within the hundred Kretan cities: 670
These ruled Idomeneus, famed with the spear,
And Merion, equal to Enyalios
Destroying men; these eighty black ships followed.
Tlepolemos, the Heraklides, brave
And great led forth from Rhodes nine ships of Rhod-
ians 675
Magnanimous, arranged threefold, who dwelt
In Lindos, Ielysos and white Kamiros.
Of these, spear-famed Tlepolemos was chief;
Astyochia bore him to the might*
Of Hercules; her Hercules had led 680
From the Selleis River when many cities
Of the youth, Zeus-nurtured, he destroyed. While now

*Hercules himself.
BOOK II 49

Tlepolemos was nourished in the halls
Well-built, he slew the cherished uncle of
His sire:—Likymnios, then growing old, 685
A scion of Ares. Speedily he built
Him ships, assembling many people there,
And fled upon the sea, for the other sons
And _ grandsons of the might of Hercules
Made threats, and, in his wanderings, he came 690
To Rhodes, enduring woes. These* dwelt distinct,
Divided in three tribes, yet loved by Zeus,
Who rules o’er gods and men. [On them Kronion
Rained enormous riches.}
Nireus, next,

Three equal ships from Symé led, Nireus, 695
Son of Aglaia and Charopos:
The king,—Nireus, the fairest man of all
The Danaans who went to Ilion,
Except Pelides; yet was weak in war,
And few the people were who followed him 700

Those who held Nisyros and Krapathos and Kasos
And Kos, the city: of Eurypylos,
And th’ isles of Kalydnai: of these Phidippos
And‘Antiphos were chief, two sons were they
Of Thessalos, the Heraklidian king; 705
Their thirty hollow ships in order went.

But now, again, as many as inhabited
Pelasgian Argos, and who dwelt in Halos,
In Alopé, in Trechias, and who Phthia
Held and Hellas having beauteous women; 710
Were called Achaians, Hellens, Myrmidons;
Their fifty ships-Achilles ruled, but they
Had-lost remembrance of ill-echoing war;
For none there was to lead them in the ranks.
Divine Achilles, fleet of foot, lay in 715
The ships in anger for the maid well-haired,
Briseis, whom he took from out Lyrnessos,
Suffering many labours when he razed

*The Rhodians,
50 THE ILIA OF HOME

Lyrnessos and the walls of Thebé, and
O’erthrew both Mynes and Epistrophos 720
Renowned in war, sons of Evenos, King
Selepiades; now, for her he, grieving, lay,
But soon to rouse.
But Phylaké who held
And flowery Pyrasos, Demeter’s field
Divine, and Iton, mother of sheep, and Antron 725
By the sea and grassy Pteleon;
Warlike Protesilaos guided these
While yet he lived, but now the black earth held him.
His wife was left in Phylaké to tear
Her cheeks, his house was left half built; forhim 730
A Dardan killed when from his ship he leapt,
Of all th’ Achaians first by far. But these
Were not without a leader, though their chief
They longed for; them Podarkes ruled, a scion
Of Ares, son of Iphiklos, the son 735
Of Phylakos of many sheep; he was
A cousin of great-souled Protesilaos,
Younger by birth; elder and greater was
Protesilaos, hero bold. No chief
The people lacked, but they desired him much, 740
For he was true. Him* forty black ships followed.
And those who dwelt in Pherai, by the lake
Boibeis, Boibé, Glaphyrai and Iaolkos
Well-built: their ships eleven ruled Admetos’
Cherished son, Eumelos, whom Alkestis, 745
The best of women, bore Admetos; she,
The fairest one of Pelias’ daughters fair.
And those who in Methoné dwelt and in
Thaumakia, and Meliboia held and rough
Olizon: Philoktetes, knowing well 75°
The bow, their seven ships ruled; and fifty rowers
In each embarked, all knowing well the bow
And mightily to war. Yet he in the isle
Divine of Lemnos lay, where him the sons
Of the Achaians had left, and suffered pains 755
Unspeakable and laboured from the wound
Of the pernicious hydra; there he lay
*Podarkes.
BOOK II

In pain; but soon the Argives, by their ships,
Would recollect King Philoktetes. These*
Were not without a guide, but still desired

Their chief; yet Medon ordered them, the spurious

Son of high Oileus whom Rhena bore
To great Oileus, city-destroyer dire.

And those who Trikka held and mountainous
Ithomé and who held Oichalia,
The city of Oichalian Eurytos:
Asklepios’ two sons led these, two good
Physicians, Machaon and Podaliros;
And with them thirty hollow vessels went,
Enranked as due.

And those who held Ormenion,
And those who held the spring of Hyperia,
Who held Asterion and the summit white
Of Titanos: Eurypylos ruled these,
Euaimon’s glorious son; and forty hollow
Vessels followed him.

Who held Argissa

And in Gyrtoné dwelt and Orthé and
Eloné and Oloosson, city white:
Polypoites, strong in war, was chief of these,—
The son of great Pirithoos, the son
Of Zeus immortal (to Pirithoos
Renowned Hippodamia bore him on
That day when on the hairy centaurs het
Had vengeance; them from Pelion he pushed
And to th’ Aithikai drove), nor he alone,
With him Leonteus was, a scion of Ares,
The son of great Koronos, the Kainides;
These thirty sable vessels followed there.

Guneus from Kyphos two and twenty vessels
Led; and him the Enienes followed then,
And the Peraiboi, strong in war, who round
Dodoné frigid placed their homes, who tilled
The fields by pleasant Titaresios

*The followers of Philoktetes. +Pirithoos.

5r

760

765

770

775

780

785

79°
52 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Which sends fair-flowing water to Peneios;
This does not mix with silver-eddying
Peneios, but, like oil, it flows above, 795
For that is part of Styx’s water of
The mighty oath,
The chief of the Magnetes
Was Prothoos, Tenthredon’s son; and those
Who dwelt by leafy Pelion and Peneios:
Fleet Prothoos led these; and him two score 800
Black vessels followed.
These the chiefs and leaders
Of the Danaans were. But tell, O Muse,
What man, of those th’ Atridz led, was best,
What horses were the best.
By far the best
Of steeds were Pheretiades’ mares and whom 805
Eumelos drove, swift as the birds, alike
In hair, in age; in back, true to a line;
And silver-bowed Apollo bred them in
Perea; both were mares and scattered fear
In war.
And Ajax Telamon was far 810
The best of men while yet Achilles raged;
For he* was mightiest far, as were the steeds
Who bore Pelides blameless. Yet he lay
Hard by his curve-bowed ocean ships, incensed
At Agamemnon, pastor of the folk, 815.
Atrides; and his vassals all beside
The ocean’s shore enjoyed the discus, or
They flung the javelin or they drew the bow;
Their horses by. the chariots stood, each one,
And ate the lotus or the parsley grown 820.
In swamps; the well-wrapped chariots of the kings
Lay in the tents; but they desired their chief,
Ares-beloved, and wandered here and there
Amid the hase, bot went not forth. to war. /
“But the others went as if the world were swept 825
By flame; the earth beneath groaned as when
Zeus, pleased with thundering, rages in his wrath

* Achilles.
BOOK II 53

And smites the ground around Typhoeus, ’mid
The Arimi, where, they say, Typhoeus has
His bed; thus mightily the earth groaned ’neath $30
Their passing feet, as quick they crossed the plain.
But to the Trojans wind-swift Iris came,
A messenger from aegis-bearing Zeus,
With dolorous message. Then they called a council
At Priam’s gates, and young and old assembled — 835
And, standing near, swift Iris said to them,
She made her voice sound like Polites’ voice,
Priam’s son’s who stood, the Trojans’ sentinel,
-Confiding in his fleetness, on the top

Of old Aisyetes’ tomb to note the time 840
When from their ships th’ Achaians should rush;—like
him

In form, swift Iris said:
“O ancient, ever
To you are many joyous tidings borne,
As once in peace; but war inevitable
Has come. Full often have I been among 845
The battles of men, but never saw I such,
Nor so great a multitude; for to the plain
They come in number like the leaves or sands,
Coming to battle round about the city.
But, Hektor, most I counsel to do thus: 850
Many allies are in the city great
Of Priam, many tongues are spoken by
These men who dwell in distant lands; of these
Let him be chief who rules o’er them; let him
Be leader and command his countrymen.” 855
Thus spoke she; Hektor did not slight her words,

But loosed the council quickly and rushed to arms.
Then all the gates were opened and from them
The people rushed, both horse and foot, and great
The tumult rose.

There stands before the city 860
A certain lofty hill; upon the plain
It stands alone, and one may compass it;
Men call this Batieia, but th’ immortals,
The tomb of fleet Myrina; there the Trojans
54 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And their allies their ordered ranks arranged.
Great helmet-glancing Hektor, son of Priam,
The Trojans led; with him by far the most

865

And strongest folk were armed, prompt with the spear.

Eneas ruled the Dardans; strenuous son
He of Anchises; Aphrodité bore
Him to Anchises (in the woody passes
Of Ide the goddess with a mortal lay);
Alone he ruled not, with him ranked Antenor’s
Two sons, Archelochos and Akamas,
Both knowing well all war.
What Trojans in
Zeleia dwelt beneath the lowest foot
Of Ida, rich and drinking water from
The black Aisopos: these Lykaon’s son,
Glorious Pandar ruled, on whom Apollo
Himself bestowed the bow, a gift divine.
And those who Adrastia held and held
The city Apaisos and Pityia and
The mountain high, Teria; o’er these ruled
Adrastos, Amphios, too, who wore a linen
Cuirass, two sons of Merops of Perkoté,
Who knew all auguries and told them not
To go to man-destroying war; but they
Obeyed not, for the Keres of black death
Drove on.
And those who dwelt around Perkoté
And Praktion, and those who Sestos held
Abydos and divine Arisba; these
Asios ruled, Hyrtakides, a prince
Of men; Asios Hyrtakides, his great
And fiery horses bore him from Arisba
And from the river Selleis.
Hippothoos
Led on the tribes Pelasgian, ready with
The spear, who dwelt in fertile-soiled Larissa;
Pylaios and Hippothoos ruled these; two.scions
Of Mars, and were sons of Pelasgian Lethos,
Teutamides.
But Akamas and hero

870

875

880

885

890

895

goo
BOOK II 55

Piroos the Thrakians led, as many as
Strong-flowing Hellespont contained.

Euphemos
Ruled o’er the warlike Kikones; the son
Of Troizen, Keades; Zeus-nurtured he.

Pyraichmes the Paionians led; renowned 9°5
Were they in archery, from Amydon
Afar, from Axios broadly-flowing, Axios,

Whose water fairest is that moistens earth.

Pylaimenes’ strong heart from th’ Eneti
The Paphlagonians led (hence come the race gio
Of savage mules) and those who held Kytoros
And dwelt round Sesamos, and by the river
Parthenios dwelt in their renowned abodes,

And Kromna held, Aigialos and high
Erythini.
But Odios and Epistrophos g15
Ruled o’er the Halizoni of Alybé,
Far distant, where the source of silver is.
The Mysians Chromis ruled and Ennomos,
The augur; yet by auguries he ’scaped
Not his black fate, but fell before the hand 920
Of fleet Aiakides* beside the river,
Wherein he* slew Trojans and many more.
The Phrygians Phorkys ruled, and ruled with him
Askanios, from far Askania;
Desirous they of war.
But Antiphos 925
And Mesthles guided the Maionians, sons
Of Talaimenes, sprung from the Gygean lake;
They guided the Maionians born ’neath Tmolos.

And Nastes led the Karians barbarous-tongued,
Who held Miletos and the leafy mount 930
Of Phthiron and Maiander’s currents and
The lofty peaks of Mykalé; these led
Amphimachos and Nastes famed sons of
Nomion; even as a girl with garb
Of gold he went to war, in folly, but this 935

* Achilles.
56 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Did not repel his bitter fate; he fell
Beneath the hands of fleet Aiakides,
Beside the river, and fierce Achilles took
The gold.
Famed Glaukos and Sarpedon ruled
The Lykians, from far Lykia and eddying Xanthos. 940

BOOK III.

THE TREATY. THE VIEW FROM THE WALL. THE
SINGLE COMBAT OF PARIS AND MENELAOS,

But when they all were ordered beneath their leaders
there,
With clang and din the Trojans marched, like the birds
of air;
Thus does the cranes’ loud clangour the placid skies
deform,
When they fly from the winter and from the boundless
storm;
Above the streams of Ocean they fly with clamour
great,
And bear to pigmy nations slaughter and ruthless fate;
Borne forth in early morning, for evil strife they lour.—
But, th’ Achaians all marched onward in silence, breath-
ing power,
With all their mind desiring one another to assist.—
As on the mountain’s summits Notos pours forth a
mist 10
Ungrateful to the shepherds, better for thieves than night;
And one sees but the distance marked by a pebble’s
flight;
Thus from their passing footsteps the dust-cloud rose
amain,
As, borne in rapid motion, they crossed the boundless
plain.
But when the hosts approaching the hostile forces
neared, 15
BOOK Iil 57

Godlike in beauty, Paris in the Trojan front appeared,

Having upon his shoulders curved bow and panther’s hide

And sword; he brandished proudly two brass-tipped
spears beside,

Provoking all the bravest of the Achaians there

To fightin hostile combat and savage strifetodare. 20

When Menelaos saw him—beloved by Mars his fame—

Going before the army, with ample strides he came

Rejoicing like a lion whom, urged by hunger’s stings,

The hornéd stag or wild goat a bulky carcass brings;

And savagely he gorges though, rising in his view, 25

Swift dogs may rush upon him, and generous youth
pursue:

Thus Menelaos gladdened at seeing with his eyes

Paris divine, while hoping t’avenge his injuries;

At once out of his chariot enmailed to earth he leapt.

When godlike Paris.knew that the foremost ranks he*

kept, 30

His heart sank in his bosom and, seized by terror great,

He mingled with his comrades, thus to escape his fate.

As when, in mountain passes, one chances on a snake

And suddenly leaps backwards while his members tremors

shake,
And, turning back his footsteps, all pale his cheeks
appear, 35

‘Thus hid among the army of the proud Trojans near,
Fearing the son of Atreus, Paris, of godlike form.
But Hektor, seeing, chid him with words harsh and
deform:
“Tll-Paris, formed the fairest, erotic, false beside,
Would that no day had borne you or that unwed you
died! — 40
This could I wish; more utile by far such fate would fall,
Than thus to be dishonoured and a disgrace to all.
They mock you with their laughter, th’ Achaians with
long hair,
And call you a great champion, for you-in form are fair,
Your mind contains no vigour nor native force entailed. 45
Being thus, with ocean vessels upon the sea you sailed.
*Menelaos,
58 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And, gathering meet companions, saw many a foreign
shore,
And from a land far distant a beauteous woman bore,—
A wife for virile warriors, great sorrow to your sire
And all your folk and city, to foes a gladness dire, 50
To you yourself dishonour.—And do you flee the strife
With Mars-loved Menelaos and keep his beauteous wife ?
The cithern will not aid you, nor Venus’ gifts and smiles,
Your hair and form of beauty, when you the dust defiles.
Well are the Trojans timid since you such pollution
brought,
Or a cloak of stone had thralled you* for the evils you
have wrought!”
To him responded Paris, fair with a godhead’s bloom:
“ Hektor you chide in measure, not past the bounds of
doom;
Like to an ax is ever your high unconquered heart,
Which by a man directed, the ship’s beam hews with
art, 60
And aids the forceful impulse a human power impressed;
Such is the heart intrepid you harbour in your breast.
But let not your reproaches the gifts immortal blame,
The boon of love and loving which from golden Venus
came;
Not are to be rejected the gifts the godheads make. 65
What they give to the chosen no other hand can take.
But if you wish me singly the war and strife to rue,
Have all the Trojans seated and all th’ Achaians, too;
Then Mars-loved Menelaos and me between them call
To wage the war for Helen and the possessions all; 70
Whoever from the contest of strength a victor come,
Let him take all the riches and lead the woman home;
Then you the boon of friendship and treaties may em-
lo
That you may safely dwell in the fertile fields of Troy;
And let them go to Argos which pastures coursers rare, 75
And to their land, Achaia, the nurse of women fair.”
Thus he; and Hektor preatly rejoiced his words to hear,
And, going in between them, the middle of his spear

{The Trojans had stoned you,
BOOK III 59

‘He held and stayed the Trojans; and they were halted

there.

On him their shafts directed th’ Achaians with long
hair, 80

And aimed at him their arrows, and stones at him they
flung.

Then called King Agamemnon with voice which loudly
rung: ,

“ Achaian youths, O Argives, cast not, I bid you stay!
Hektor with glancing helmet stands here some word to
say.”
Thus he; and they were silent all suddenly and broke85
‘Away from strife and warring; to both sides Hektor
spoke:
“ Hear me, well-greaved Achaians, and you of Trojan
name,
I tell the words of Paris, from whom contention came.
He bids the other Trojans and all th’ Achaian race,
Upon earth all-sustaining, their beauteous arms to
place go
Himself and Menelaos, Mars-loved, ’mid you to call
' To wage the war for Helen and the possessions all;
Whoever from the contest of strength a victor come,
Let him take all the treasures and lead the woman home;
The rest may treat of friendship and oaths sincere may
swear.”
Thus spoke he; and, attentive, all stood in silence there.
To them, then, Menelaos strenuous in war, rejoined:
“ Hear me now, for this sorrow lies heaviest on my
mind;
The Argives and the Trojans, I think, will soon decide,
Since many ills you suffered on mine or Paris’ side. 100
Which of us two may find death and fate, here let him die,
The rest may meet in judgment and settle speedily.
But bear two lambs for offering,—a white, a black one
bring,
For Earth and Sun; another we will bear for Zeus, the
King.
Lead foe ae might of Priam, that he the oaths may
take 105
60 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

(Since his sons are proud and faithless), so none Zeus
oaths may break.
And young men’s counsels ever like air-waves rise and
fall,
The.old view past and future to choose the best of all.””
Thus he; Achaians and Trojans joyed at the words

he bare,

Hoping to end the sorrows of miserable war. 110

They left behind their coursers, but they themselves went
forth

And loosened arms and armour and laid them on the
earth

All closely piled together, so the space around was small.
But Hektor to the city two heralds sent withal,
To bring in haste the lambkins and Priam’s self to call.115
King Agamemnon ordered Talthybios to go
Thence to the hollow vessels and bring the lambkins two;
Nor did he refuse obedience to Agamemnon’s hest.—
Now Iris with a message to white-armed Helen pressed,
Her sister-in-law resembling, the fair Laodike, 120
Wife of King Helikaon (son of Antenor he),
Who-was of Priam’s daughters fairest in beauty’s bloom. --
She found her in her palace, weaving with ample loom
A double vest of purple where many a feat was laid
Of the charger-taming Trojans and Achaians brazen-
clad, 125
Which they for her had suffered by Ares’ hands oppressed.
Now standing close beside her, fleet Iris thus addressed:
“Dear nymph, come here and gaze on the wondrous
sights displayed
By the charger-taming Trojans and Achaians brazen-
clad
Who erst ‘gainst one another bore lamentable Mars 130
Upon the plain, desiring to wage destructive wars;
‘But.now they sit in silence (the end of warring nears),
They lean upon their bucklers and fix in earth their
‘Spears.
But Mars-loved Menelaos and Paris, in a strife
With lengthy spears, will battle, and the victor call you
wife.” 135
BOOK III 61

Thus saying, the goddess gently instilled a sweet desi:e
For husband and for city, for mother and for sire.
Wrapped in a veil of linen whose white folds hid her well,
She hastened from the chamber while tender tear-drops

fell;
But not alone, two servants were ready by her side, 140
One, Aithra, Pittheus’ daughter, one, Klymené great-
eyed.
And speedily they came there where was the Skaian gate.

There Priam and Thymoites, Lampos and Panthoos

sate,
And Hiketaon, Mars’ scion; these elders wise, sedate,
With Ukalegon, Antenor, sat by the Skaian gate; 145
In age, they ceased from warring; were yet in council

good. —
And were like the cicadas who, from the leafy wood,
Sitting in trees, around them send dulcet tones and pure;
Such were the Trojan leaders who sate within the tower. }~
But as they looked on Helen, who to the watch-tower

pressed, : 150
They softly to each other these wingéd words. addressed:

“Tn truth, ’tis not unseemly, for such a woman fair,

That Trojans. and Achaians well-greaved long woes
should bear;
In: features she resembles a goddess deathless. born;
Yet thus, though such a woman, in the ships. let her
return, 155.
Lest on us and our children a host of evils crowd.”
Thus they; but Priam.to Helen called out in: accents:

loud:

“Come hither, cherished daughter, come here and sit
by me,

That you your former husband, gone friends: and dun
may see; 3

(You did not cause my’ sorrows, the. gods the’ causes
are, 160:

Who drove on me th’ Achaians in lamentable war).

Thus, view this mignly warrior, tell me the name and
state

Of this Achaian hata, pre-eminent’and «reat,
62 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

’Tis true that others round him in loftier stature rise,
But fairer man before this I saw not with these eyes, 165
Nor with such air of grandeur; he seems a king of men.”
And Helen, godlike woman, to him made answer then:
“ Dear father, I regard you with reverence mixed with

fear;

Would that an ill death seized me ere I followed Paris
here,

Leaving my home and brothers, my daughter well-
beloved, 170

My cherished friends and playmates with whom from
youth I moved.

Yet this was not accomplished, and withering I mourn.—

But I will tell you gladly what you ask and wish to learn:

Wide-ruling Agamemnon, Atrides, you behold,

Who is both an able monarch and warrior strong and

bold, 175

Husband’s brother to me, shameless, if ever such he
were.”

Thus she; the old man wondered and then replied
to her:

“O fortunate Atrides, born with a happy star

And fate, to whom so many Achaians subject are.

For once I went to Phrygia, which vines unnumbered
breeds, 180

And saw there many Phrygians, good men on agile steeds,

The people of great Otreus and Mygdon, like a god,

Who by the banks of Sangar with all their army stood;

And I was numbered with them, allied in their array,

When the Amazon viragoes opposed them on that

day; 185
Yet these were not so many as th’ Achaians glancing-
eyed.”

Odysseus seeing, the ancient again his questions plied:
“ Dear child, come now and tell me who is this man I see;
Shorter than Agamemnon by a full head is he,
But round his breast and shoulders he shows a broader
girth. 190
His arms by him are lying on the many-feeding earth,
And like a ram he wanders among the ranks of men;
BOOK III 63

Him to a ram I liken, who with thick fleece is seen,
And through a flock of many white sheep goes here and

there.”
To him then answered quickly Jove’s daughter, Helen
fair: 195

“ Laertiades Odysseus is he, in mind most deft,

In Ithaké was nurtured, a land by chasms cleft,

In craft supremely skillful, in counsel good and tried.”
To her discreet Antenor in answer thus replied:

“This is most true, O woman, what you to us pro-

claim. 200

For once already hither divine Odysseus came,

With Mars-loved Menelaos, on embassy for you;

I in my house received them as guests in friendship true.

Of both I knew the nature, the counsels wise and sound.

But when they mingled freely with the Trojans gathered

round, 205
While standing, Menelaos higher his broad shoulders
reared;

Though when they sat auguster Odysseus’ mien appeared.

Yet when, to all, their phrases and counsels they ad-
dressed,

His thoughts, then, Menelaos most fluently expressed;

Though few, yet very clearly; no long discourse he
told, 210

Nor rambled in his phrases, for he was not so old.

Yet when acute Odysseus rose to his feet and stood,

He downward looked and fastened on earth his glance
subdued,

Nor in his hand the scepter with grace waved to and fro,

But held it stifly upright like men who little know; 215

You might have called him wrathful or one incompetent.

But when his voice sonorous from his deep chest was sent,

And words, which a resemblance to winter’s snow-storms
bare,

Then, sure, no other mortal with Odysseus might com-

are.

And hile he spoke, we marveled not at his aspect

plain.” 220
Now, thirdly, seeing Ajax, the ancient asked again:
64 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“‘ Who is this other Achaian, a man both great and: good,

Distinguished o’er the Argives by head and shoulder
broad ?”

Helen with trailing garments, woman divine, replied:

“ This is gigantic Ajax, th’ Achaians’ fence and pride; 225

Idomeneus, the godlike, there ’mid the Kretans stands,

Round him are grouped the chieftains who lead the
Kretan bands.

For often he was welcomed a guest within my home

ByMars-loved Menelaos when he from Krete had come.—

Now all the other Achaians of glancing eyes I see,, 230

Whom once I knew, whose names might full well be told’
by me;

But two I see not ’mid them, two chiefs of lofty mood,

Kastor, the charger-tamer, and Pollux, boxer good;

They were my own dear brothers, and them my mother

bore.
Is ’t that they would not part from loved Lakedaimon’s
shore ? 235

Is.’t that they followed hither in ships which cross the'sea,
But wish not now in battles of warlike men to-be,
Fearing the vast reproaches which with my. name go

forth?”
Thus she; but they: were held by the life-bestowing
earth,
Far hence in sakedaimon, the dear land of their
birth.— 240:
The heralds through the city bore the godheads’ offer-
ings,—
Two lambs and wine all-joying and fruit the tilled earth
brings,

In goat-skin sack; a crater all glorious to behold
Idaios, the herald, carried and also cups of gold;
And, standing near the ancient, he with these words.’

addressed: 245
“Son of: Laomedon, rouse you; they: call to you, the
best
Of. .charger-taming Trojans and Achaians _ brazen-
dressed,

To go down to the prairie, that oaths sincere you swear;
BOOK III 65

But Paris and Menelaos, Mars-loved, will combat there,

With long spears, for the woman who brought so dire a
doom; 250

T.ct the woman and the riches follow the victor home,

And the others may make friendship and oaths sincere
employ

That we inhabit safely the fertile fields of Troy;

And let them go to Argos, which pastures coursers rare,

And to their land Achaia, the nurse of women fair.” 255

Thus he; the old man shuddered but bade his com-

rades lead

And put in yoke the horses, and they obeyed with speed.

When Priam had ascended, the reins he backward drew,

With him Antenor mounted the car most fair to view.

They through the Skaian portals their swift steeds drove

aplain. 260
But when they reached the Trojan and the Achaian
train,

Descending from their horses to the many-feeding earth,

To the midst of the Achaians and the Trojans they went
forth

At once rose up among them Agamemnon, king of men,

And deft in mind Odysseus; the high-born heralds
then 265

Gathered the sacred victims, and in the crater wine

Mixed well, but poured out water o’er the monarch’s
_hands divine.

Atrides, grasping firmly, the knife of slaughter swung,

Which by his sword’s great scabbard ever suspended

hung,
And from the lambkins’ foreheads the clustered ringlets
shore; 270

These to th’ Achaian and Trojan leaders the heralds bore.
Among them prayed Atrides aloud with hands elate:

“ Zeus Sire, from Ida ruling, most glorious and most

great,

And Helios who watch over all things and all things know,
And you, ye Earth and Rivers, and Deities below = 275
Who deal out retribution to men who falsely swear,
Be witnesses before us and guard the oaths we bear;
66 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

If, now, great Menelaos by Paris’ hand shall fall,

Let him dispose of Helen and the possessions all,

And we in ocean vessels back to our homes will go; 280

If yellow Menelaos lay Alexander low,

The Trojans shall give Helen and the possessions all,

And pay the Argives ransom, whatever that befal,

Which to the generations of coming men shall shine.

If Priam or Priam’s children refuse to pay the fine, 285

Should Alexander perish, I will fight that price to gain,

And, till the end of warring, fixed here will I remain.”
Then he, with cruel metal, the lambkins’ throats cut

wide,
And, on the earth expiring, he placed them by his side
Bereft of life, the metal from them the strength had

torn. 290
But drawn out from the crater, the wine in cups was
borne,

And to the gods immortal their reverent vows were made,
And thus each of the Trojans and the Achaians prayed:

“Most glorious Zeus, the greatest, ye other gods as well,
Who first shall break this treaty which now with oaths

we tell, 295
Let thus their brains flow earthward as here this wine is
borne,

Their own and eke their children’s, and their wives from
them be torn.”
Thus they; to them Kronion gave not the prayer they
prayed,
But to them Dardan Priam at once his thoughts con-
veyed:
“Hear me, well-greaved Achaians, ye Trojans, hear
anon, 300
I bear my footsteps backward to wind-swept Ilion;
Since, with these eyes, I never can bear to see the sight
Of Mars-loved Menelaos and my dear son in fight.
Zeus knows well, and the other immortal gods of heaven,
To whom his fate is destined, to whom his death is
given.” 305
Thus he; the godlike hero in the car the lambkins
threw,
BOOK III 67

Then he himself ascended and back the guide-reins drew;

And by his side Antenor went in the chariot fair,

And, turning back their footsteps, the twain to Ilion bare.
But Hektor, son of Priam and Odysseus, man di-

vine, 310
First chose the lists for conflict, drawn by the measured
line,

And cast the lots divining in the brazen helmet sheer,
To know who first was fated to throw the brazen spear.
With hands upraised the people th’ immortal godheads

prayed;
And thus each of th’ Achaians and of the Trojans
said: 315
use) Sire, from Ida ruling, most glorious and most
reat,

Which of these two was author of this malign debate,
Let him, in just destruction, the house of Hades find,
So we again our friendship and faithful truce may bind.”’
Thus they; helm-glancing Hektor the helmet whirled
about, 320
Gazing with eyes averted, and Paris’ lot leapt out.
All then sate in their orders, near by the spot where
stood
Each one’s fleet-footed courser, where lay their weapons
‘ood.
Paris divine, the husband of Helen with fair hair,
Then put about his shoulders his armour wondrous

fair. 325
And, first, his greaves all beauteous around his legs he
placed,

And with the burnished buckles of silver made them fast;
He next his brother’s thorax about his bosom drew,
Lent by his brother Lykaon,—because it fitted true;

His brazen sword, all studded with silver, next he

hung, 330
Suspending‘from his shoulders with his buckler great and
strong;

His helm’of cunning labour to his strong head he pressed,
With horsehair decked, above it glanced dire the nodding
crest.
68 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He tock the mighty spear shaft, fit for his hands alone.—

Thus, likewise, Menelaos the arms of Mars put on. 335

When they were armed, advancing from the throng on
either side,

’*Mid Trojans and Achaians they came in warlike pride

Casting terrific glances; and stupor held amain

The charger-taming Trojans and well-greaved Achaian

train.
Within the measured distance they shook their javelins
near, 340

Wroth at each other. Paris first flung his lengthy spear
And it against Atrides’ all-equal buckler sent,

But did not pierce the metal; the point itself was bent
Upon the solid buckler. But next the sharp brass drove

Atrides Menelaos, praying to Father Jove: 345
“ King Zeus, give to me vengeance on him who wrought
me ill,

On god-like Alexander; grant with my hands to kill;
That coming generations of men shall never dare
To harm their entertainers who friendship with them

share.”
Thus spoke he, while he brandished his long spear ere
he flung, 350

And on the shield all-equal of Priamides it rung.
Clear through the shining buckler drove on the
spear of might
And fixed stood in the thorax with many a labour dight
And pierced the tunic lying upon the flesh beneath;
But Paris bent, evading the sable fate of death. 355
His silver-studded falchion Atrides drew and struck
Upon the helmet’s summit, but from his hand it broke,
And into sparkling fragments, triply, fourfold was riven.
Atrides sighed, lamenting, and gazed on the wide heaven:
“Zeus Father, sure no godhead is more malign than
you! 360
I thought to wreak the vengeance to Paris’ baseness due;
Now in my hand is broken my sword; no harm is
wrought;
My spear flew from me vainly, and I destroyed him not.”’
Thus he, then rushed and seized on the horsehaired
crest, amain,
BOOK III 69

And, turning round, dragged Paris to the well-greaved
Argive train; 365

The strap, with art embroidered, his tender throat op-
pressed,

The band which held the helmet and ’neath the chin was
laced.

Now he had dragged him captive and endless glory won,

If all to Aphrodité, Zeus’ daughter, were not known,

Who broke the band which came from a great ox slain
by force, 370

And but the empty helmet followed the strong hand’s
course,

The hero threw it, whirling, to the well-greaved Argive
band,

And his companions trusty the trophy took in hand.

Himself rushed back, desiring to kill with spear of brass;

Venus with ease saved Paris, for she a goddess was; 375

Veiling in mist abundant, she brought him to his room,

And placed him in the chamber fragrant with rich

perfume;

Then went to summon Helen, and by the high tower
found,

Where many a Trojan lady and maid were gathered
round.

Then with her hand she seized on and shook the fragrant
“vest, 380

Seeming an aged woman who wool prepared and dressed,
Dwelling in Lakedaimon, who fairest art displayed,
And loved most; her resembling, Queen Aphrodité said:
“ Come hither; Alexander desires you to come home,
He keeps the bed well-carven which stands within the

room, 385
Splendid in form and garments; you would not fairly
know

He had returned from warring; yet with the radiant glow
Of one who ceases dancing or to the dance will go.”
Thus she; in Helen’s bosom contending passions
smote;
But when, at length, she noticed the goddess’ beauteous
throat,
7o THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Her bosom formed for loving, her eyes whence splendour
broke, 390
She gazed in pallid stupor and said the word and spoke:
“ Dishonest, why deceive me? Would you me yet
farther bear,
Beyond the peopled towns of Phrygia or Maionia fair,
If you have a friend to favour among the dwellers there ?
Since Menelaos has conquered Paris, of grace divine, 395
And wishes to lead homeward this hated form of mine,
Why now with guileful purpose do you come here to me?
Go forth and sit beside him, slight your divinity;
And never to Olympus permit your feet to stray,
But ever mourn anear him and guard him as you may, 400
Till he make you his husband or keep you as his slave.
But I will not go thither (a just reproach ’t would brave)
To deck his bed; the women of Troy behind me fain
Would utter their reproaches; and I have many a pain.”
Venus divine responded to her with ire austere: 405
“ Provoke me not, O wretched, lest, wroth, I leave you
here
And hold as much in hatred as well I loved before,
And bring, from both the Trojans and Danaans, rancours
sore
Upon you, so you perish, cursed by an evil fate.”
Thus she; Zeus’ daughter Helen revered the goddess
great 410
And went (hid by the shining, white. tunic o’er her
spread)
In silence; and the Trojans knew naught; the goddess
led.
When they to Alexander’s resplendent house had come,
Her maids came quickly round her and she reached the
lofty room.
Laughter-loving Aphrodité, taking forheraseat, 415
Bore it in front of Paris and placed her at his feet;
And there sat Helen, daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus;
But she her eyes averted and chid her husband thus:
“You come disgraced from battle,—and would that
there you died,
BOOK III 71

Slain by a better warrior, to whom I once was bride. 420

You boasted much before this that you were more than
peer

Of Mars-loved Menelaos, in force and hands and spear.

Now Mars-loved Menelaos call forth to fight again;—

But cease, J bid; from combat your hasty thoughts re-
strain,

Nor with yellow Menelaos the fate of battle try 425
Too rashly, lest full quickly, pierced by his spear, you
die.”

Paris with words responded and thus replied to her:
“* Woman, with harsh reproaches seek not my soul to stir.
For Menelaos conquered me by Athena’s aid;
Hereafter I may vanquish by heavenly power dis-

played, 430
But be, between us, friendship and grace renewed and
love.

For never thus I languished nor felt thus Eros move;
Not when from Lakedaimon, fair land, you first I bore
And sailed in ocean vessels far from the ravaged shore,
And in the isle of Kranaé I mixed in passion’s fire; 435
Now, even thus I love you and faint in sweet desire.”
Thus he and neared the beadstead; she followed
where he led,
And they reclined together upon the lathe-turned bed.
Atrides through the armies, rushed like a beast de-
form
In quest of Alexander, fair as the gods in form, 440
And no one of the Trojans or the renowned allies
Could Mars-loved Menelaos of Paris’ hold apprize.
For friendship had not shielded, if any there had seen,
Since he by all was hated as black fate’s sable mien.
Among them, Agamemnon, the king of men, then said:445
“Trojans, allies and Dardans, be now my words
obeyed.
Since Mars-loved Menelaos o’er Paris victor shines,
Give to him Argive Helen, the wealth, and pay the fines,—
Whate’er is fit to carry to coming men the fame.”
Atrides spoke; th’ Achaians all shouted in acclaim. 450
72 THE ILIAD OF HOMER.

BOOK IV.

THE BREAKING OF THE TRUCE, THE REVIEW BY
AGAMEMNON.

The gods with Zeus consulted, sitting in halls gold-
floored,
And ’mid them reverenced Hebe the dulcet nectar poured;
And they in golden beakers to one another gave,
Gazing upon the city which held the Trojans brave. 5
Then Kronides endeavoured to waken Hera’s ire
By using cutting speeches and hinting his desire:
“‘ Two patrons ’mid the godheads does Menelaos own,
One is Athena Guardian, and Argive Hera one.
And they apart are seated, exchanging looks elate; 10
But laughter-loving Venus, e’er close, kept off his* fate,
And saved him at the moment he thought that he must
die.
Yet Mars-loved Menelaos has won the victory;
Let us consult together what course events shall take;
Whether dire war and combat destroying we awake, 15
Or let the gifts of friendship to either party fall;
Whether such boon be granted with peace and joy to all;
And thus King Priam’s city revive its former bloom,
And yellow Menelaos lead Argive Helen home.”
Thus he; Athen’ and Hera with pressed lips groaned
thereat; 20
They planned ills for the Trojans while they together sat.
Athena sat in silence, not yet to speech impelled,
Irate at Zeus, the Father, while savage anger held;
But Hera’s breast contained not her rage, in speech she

broke:
“O Kronides, severest, what were those words you
spoke! 25

Why do you wish to render my trouble all in vain,
And the sweat I sweat in labour? I tired my horses
twain

*Paris’s.
BOOK IV 73

In gathering folk and evils for Priam and his line.
Do so; we other godheads approve not your design.”
Indignant with her greatly cloud-gathering Zeus then

said: 30
““O base one, how have Priam and Priam’s children
led

On you so many evils that fiercely you desire

The well-built city Ilion to waste with hostile fire?

If you went to the portals and ramparts broad and high,

And Priam and Priam’s children devoured there greed-
ily, 35

And all the other Trojans, then might you sate your rage.

Do as you wish, but guard well lest later strife engage

You with my power, and anger unmeasured bring regret.

Yet this I tell you plainly, let not your heart forget; 40

When I desire some city down from its hight to tear,

Think not to turn my vengeance from those you cherish
there,

Seek not to sooth my anger, my purpose fell to bind;

For I gave to you this city with a reluctant mind.

For, of the cities dwelt in by men of earthly mould,

Beneath the sun and heaven beset with stars untold,— 45

Of all these sacred Ilion paid me honour without peer,

And Priam and the folk of Priam, deft with the ashen
spear.

And ne’er was altar lacking to me, nor equal feast,

Nor steam and rich libation in honour to us placed.”

Then to him answered Hera, ox-eyed and reverenced

she: 50

“] bear sway o’er three cities, dearest of all to me,

Argos and Sparta are they, Mukenai with broad ways,—

I give them; when you hate them, to their foundations

raze;
I will not stand before you, nor envy you the joy;
For, if I should oppose you nor suffer to destroy, 55
My rage would not avail me, since you are stronger far.
Yet it is not beseeming my strenuous toil to mar.
For I am here a goddess, and your descent is mine,
And I was born to reverence, in willy Kronos’ line,
74 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And both by lineage lofty and as your wife I reign, 60
For you o’er all the immortals a sovereign rule maintain.
Yield we, then, to each other, I to you, and you to me,
And all the gods immortal beneath our sway shall be.
But quickly send Athena to carry your commands
To both the Trojan warriors and the Achaian bands, 65
And plan so that the Trojans, before th’ Achaians re-
nowned,
Begin to work confusion and break the treaties bound.”
She said; and not unmindful was the Sire of gods and
men;
And he, winged words addressing, to Athena spoke again:
“Go quickly to the army, th’ Achaian and Trojan

train, 7°
And plan so that the Trojans, before th’ Achaians re-
nowned,

Begin to work confusion and break the treaties bound.”

Thus saying, he urged Athena who had wished for
this before

And from the Olympian summits her rapid pathway bore.

The son of wily Kronos oft sends a splendid star, 75

A portent dire to seamen and the wide host of war,

And from its fiery vortex ten thousand sparklets glow;

Like this Athena Pallas sped to the world below,

And sprang down there among them; and wonder held

amain
The charger-taming Trojans and well-greaved Achaian
train. 80

And, gazing on his neighbour, each one said moodily:
“Once more the din of battle and evil war must be,
Or Zeus the gift of friendship with either side will share,
Who ’mid the generations is arbiter of war.”
Thus each of the Achaians and of the Trojans said.—85
Laodokos resembling, she to the Trojans sped,
Who was Antenor’s offspring, a warrior strong and good;
Thus, seeking godlike Pandar, her pathway she pursued.
Lykaon’s great and blameless son ’mid his troops she
found,
Whose mighty ranks, shield-sheltered, enclosed their
chief renowned, 90
BOOK IV 75

Who led them from the currents which curl Aisepos’
breast.

But she stood close beside him and wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“ Bold son of old Lykaon, will you my counsel heed ?

Dare you ’gainst Menelaos direct a shaft cf speed,

And thus from all the Trojans win great renown and
grace, . 95

But most of all from Paris, a king in power and race?

And first, from him your daring would splendid gifts
obtain,

If warlike Menelaos were by your arrow slain,

And thus the son of Atreus ascend the mournful pyre.

Now, at famous Menelaos shoot with an arrow dire; 100

But vow to King Apollo, Lykian-born, famed with the
bow,

A hecatomb most famous of firstlings to bestow

In Zeleia’s holy city when you reach home again.”

Athena thus; he listened with thoughtless mind and

vain.

He took his bow well-polished, a wild-goat’s horns well-
dressed, 105

Which once he saw from ambush and wounded in the
breast,

Shooting as it descended a rock; it fell supine;

The great horns on its forehead were sixteen palms by
line;

Andthesethe workers polished and joined in fitting mould,

And burnished all full fairly and added tips of gold. 110

He lowered it while he drew it, and close to earth he bore,

While his astute companions their bucklers held before,

Lest the sons of the Achaians, all-warlike, should rush on

Ere he struck Menelaos, great Atreus’ valiant son.

The cover from his quiver he took, an arrow chose, 115

Unshot, winged well with feathers, a cause of sable woes;

At once upon the bowstring he laid the shaft unworn,

Vowing to King Apollo, deft archer, Lykian-born,

His firstling lambs to offer in sacred hecatomb,

In Zeleia’s holy city when he had reached his home. 120

The notch and ox-nerve seizing, he drew the bowstring so
76 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The nerve came to his bosom, the iron touched the bow.
But when the bow enormous in circling curve he drew,
Twanged bow, and nerve resounded, and the pointed
arrow flew;
Desire to reach the concourse sped on the flying shot. 125
Nor you, O Menelaos, th’ immortal gods forgot;
But first the guardian daughter of Zeus the bale beheld,
And standing there before you the bitter shaft repelled,
And kept it from your body as when a mother keeps
‘The fly from her dear infant when it all sweetly sleeps. 130
And she the shaft directed where golden rings enlaced
The texture of the baldrick, and double thorax braced.
The belt well joined and woven the pointed arrow sought,
And drove on through the baldrick with cunning labour

wrought,
And through the well-wrought breastplate passed to the
space below; 135

The plate which fenced the body repelled the flying blow;

But, though she strongly warded, the arrow pierced this
guard,

And with its point extremest the flesh beneath it marred;

At once the blood dark purple out of the wound broke
forth.

As a Maionian woman or one of Karian birth 140

Dyes ivory with purple to deck the bridle rein;

It lies there in her chamber, and many a horseman fain

Would deck his charger with it; a royal gift it lies

To ornament the courser and him who wields the prize;

So were, O Menelaos, stained by the dark blood’s flow 14.5

Your legs and thighs well-shapen and ankles fair below.

But Agamemnon shuddered, oppressed by fear pro-

found,

When he the blood all-sable saw flowing from the wound.

And Mars-loved Menelaos himself was filled with doubt.

But when he saw the tendons and sharp forks standing
out, 150

Back in his breast collected, by hope his mind was fed.

Among them, deeply sighing, King Agamemnon said,

His brother’s strong hand holding, while groaned his
comrades true;
BOOK IV 77

“ Dear brother, the false treaty I swore was death to

you,

Alone before the Achaians I set to fight with Troy; 155

And thus the Trojans wound you and treaties sworn
destroy.

Yet not in vain the treaty, the lamb’s blood earth received,

And our unmixed libations, the hand-clasps we believed.

For, if th’ Olympian smites not, a later time will see

Him wreak full vengeance on them, their wives and
progeny. 160

For well I knew this sentence in mind and spirit high,

Days come when sacred Ilion prone in the dust will lie,

And Priam and the folk of Priam, good with the ashen
spear;—

Zeus Kronides, high-dwelling amid the ether clear,

Will shake his gloomy aegis inspiring fear in all, 165

Moved by such guile to anger; nor vain his threats will
fall_—

For me, O Menelaos, transcendent pains were rife,

If you died and accomplished the fated doom of life,

And I to longed-for Argos, marked by disgrace, should

come;
Since to th’ Achaians’ remembrance would come their
fathers’ home; 170

And we a boast to Priam and those of Trojan birth

Would leave, and Argive Helen; your bones in Trojan
earth

Would rot, within it lying, and all your labour vain.

And then some haughty Trojan might say in high disdain,

While he in insult leapt on famed Menelaos’ tomb: 175

“Would that to every people Agamemnon’s ire may come

As when a baffled army of Achaians he led here,

And after that went homeward to his native country dear,

~ With empty ships, but leaving Menelaos brave and tried.’

If thus he spoke, then, yawning, might me the broad
earth hide.” 180

But yellow Menelaos addressed with words of cheer:

“ Be strong’ lest-you discourage th’ Achaian people here.

The sharply pointed arrow gave not a fatal blow;

The varied baldrick guarded, and the cincture laid below,
78 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And the brazen plate the workers in brazen work had
made.” 185

To him in making answer, King Agamemnon said:

“ Would that, dear Menelaos, all thus were truly found;

But now let a physician come here to dress the wound,

And place the drugs upon it and ease the sable pain.”
He said, but to Talthybios, the herald, spoke again: 190

“ Talthybios, call Machaon, as soon as may be, here,

The son of Esculapius, a healer without peer,

That he bold Menelaos, the Achaian chief may see,

Whom someonewith an arrowhas shot--skilled archer he--

Some Trojan or some Lykian; his glory, but our

grief.” 195
Thus he; the herald, hearing, did not disobey the
chief,

But went among the people of th’ Achaians brazen-clad,

Hero Machaon seeking; he found him where he had

His station; round him gathered deep ranks of men with
shields,

Who followed him from Trikka’s broad courser-grazing
fields. 200

The herald, standing near him, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“Hero Machaon, rouse you to Agamemnon’s hest;
That you bold Menelaos, th’ Achaian chief may see,
Whom someonewith an arrow has shot--skilled archer he--
Some Trojan or some Lykian; his glory, but our

pain.” 205
Thus he; but in his bosom the chief’s mind moved
amain;

He went to the assembly of th’ Achaians wide-arrayed,

And when he came where yellow Menelaos’ wound was
made

(Round him, in circle gathered the noblest chieftains
stood,

And in their midst was standing the hero, like a god), 210

From the well-fitting baldrick the arrow sharp he drew;

But, while he drew the arrow, the sharp forks snapped
in two.

He loosed the varied baldrick and the band beneath it
brought,
BOOK IV 79

And loosed the plated miter which smiths of brass had
wrought.

But when he saw the wound which the bitter shaft im-
pressed, 215

He sucked from it the blood and with mild drugs deftly
dressed,

Which Chiron once his father in sign of friendship bare.

While thus they were attending Menelaos, good in war,

The orders of the Trojans advanced with bucklers dight,

And the Achaians put on armour and ranged themselves
for fight. 220

Then godlike Agamemnon seemed not in slumber lost,

Nor as a man faint-hearted, nor one by battle crossed,

Yet hastened to the combat which glorifies men’s name,

And left his steeds and chariot adorned with brazen
flame;

Apart his chargers snorted, his charioteer held these— 225

Eurymedon, the son of Ptolemaios Piriades;

And strictly he enjoined him to keep the chariot nigh,

When, from viewing many warriors, his limbs toiled

heavily;

But he on foot proceeded and the ranks of men re-
viewed,

And when he saw the Danaans speed by with horses
good, 230

With words, he stood beside them, encouraging their
course:

“ Argives, relax not ever your tried impetuous force;
For never to such treachery will Father Zeus give aid;
And they* were first in falsehood and sacred oaths be-

trayed,
But on their tender bodies the birds of prey will feed, 235
And we their infant children and cherished wives will
lead
As captives in our vessels when we the city mar.”

But those he saw avoiding the hated front of war, “!
On these he heaped reproaches in words of angry flame:

“ Dishonoured Argive archers, are you not seized by

shame? 240

*The Trojans
80 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Why. stand ye here in stupour like fawns distressed and
vain,

Who, when they tire by running upon the ample plain,

Stand there, and in their bosoms no powers of action
glow?

Thus you stand here astonished, nor dare to fight the foe.

Do you expect the Trojans to bring the war where

stand 245
The ships, with fair sterns fashioned, upon the gray sea’s
strand,

To see if then Kronion will guard you with his hand?”

Thus he with. power commanding the ranks of men re-

viewed,

And went then to the Kretans where a band of warriors
stood

Round Idomeneus, the warlike; their radiant arms they
wore; 250

Idomeneus was foremost, in courage like a boar;

But Merion urged onward the hindmost phalanx then.

‘And, seeing them, joy gladdened Agamemnon, king of
men,

Idomeneus he spoke to with flattery discreet:
“ Tdomeneus, of Danaans borne on by horses fleet, 255
You most I hold in favour, in war or peace you shine,
Or at the feast, when honours are pledged in sparkling
wine,

Which the princes of the Argives mix in the crater’s
heart.

And, though the other, Achaians long-haired drink up
their part,

Your beaker by you ever stands full, as mine by me, 260

To drink when it a helper to cheer the mind may be.

But rouse yourself for battle, fulfil the boasts you made.”

At once the Kretan leader in answer to him said:

“T will be a leal companion, Atrides great, to you,

As I before have promised and confirmed that promise
true; 265

But the other long-haired Achaians with your eager
words provoke
BOOK IV 81

To go at once to battle, since the truce the Trojans broke;
Since first they broke the treaty, be death and ills their
art.”
Thus he; Atrides passed on rejoicing in his heart.
He came to the Ajaces, going through the bands re-

nowned; 270
And both were armed and ready, with a cloud of footmen
round.

As from a crag a goatherd beholds a cloud beneath,

Advancing on the ocean, driven by Zephyr’s breath;

It seems to him, though distant, blacker than pitch in
form;

Going upon the waters, it leads the whirling storm, 275

And seeing it, he shudders and drives his flock to caves;

And such, around th’ Ajaces, were the Zeus-nurtured
braves;

Arranged in dense, dark phalanx, they moved upon the
fields,

To hostile war advancing, horrent with spears and shields.

And, seeing them, joy gladdened King Agamemnon’s

breast; 280
And he, the chiefs haranguing, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“* Ajaces, ye two leaders of the brass-clad Argive band
(Since inciting is not seemly), in nothing I command;
You instigate your people to fight with courage true.
Would that, Zeus Sire, Athena and King Apollo, too, 285
Such courage might be given to fire the breasts of all!
Thus soon King Priam’s city would in destruction fall,
Captured and laid in ruin by our all-conquering hands.”

Thus he, and left them standing and went to the other

bands;
But next he came to Nestor, the Pylians’ orator, 290
Arranging his companions and urging on to war:
Great Pelagon, Alastor and Chromios, and then,
Haimon, the prince, and Bias, a pastor true of men.
First came the men on horses and those who chariots
drave;
He placed the foot behind them, and they were many and
brave, 295
82 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To be a wall of battle; he placed between the worse,
And thus, if they desired not, they fought, compelled by
force,
The horsemen first instructing, he by his precepts showed
How they should rein their horses, nor thunder in a crowd:
“Let none, although confiding in horsemanship and
might, 300
Seek singly with the Trojans, before the rest to fight,
Nor yet recede faint-hearted, for such are weak in war.
Let no one leave the chariots to meet another car,
But fight with spear protruded; for this is better far.
Thus those who lived before us cities and walls o’er-
threw, 305
Having within their bosoms prudence and valour true.”
The old man thus exhorted, versed in the wars of eld;
King Agamemnon gladdened when he the chief beheld,
And, speaking to him clearly, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“Old man, would that as strong as the fervour in your
breast, 310
Your knees were strong to follow, your strength were
firm withal;
Yet age’s passing wears you as it oppresses all;
Would that some other had it, if this could youth provide.”
Gerenian Nestor, horseman, thus to his words replied:
“Much could I wish, Atrides, that now such force were
mine, 315
As when I slew in battle Ereuthalion divine.
But men the godheads never with all their gifts endow;
Once I had youthful vigour, but old age wears me now.
I will be among the horsemen, with words and counsels
sage,
To guide them in the conflict; this is the gift of age. 320
The younger of the warriors will wield the spear in fight;
They render fitter service and rely upon their might.”
Thus he; Atrides, gladdened in heart, pursued his
course,
And found the son of Peteus, Menestheus, lord of horse;
About him the Athenians, skilled men of war, were
lined, 325
BOOK IV 83

And close to them was standing Odysseus, deft of mind;
Near him the warlike orders of Kephallonians stood,
For they not yet had hearkened to the battle-cry of blood;
For the charger-taming Trojans and the Achaian war
But lately moved to conflict, and they stood expectant

there 330
Till some band of the Achaians should wake the war
again

By charging on the Trojans.—Agamemnon, king of men,
When thus he saw them standing, his stern reproofs ex-

pressed,

And, speaking to them clearly, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“O you, the son of Peteus, the great Zeus-nurtured

king, 335

And you, in wiles e’er ready, whose mind is cunning’s
spring,

Why stand aloof and tremble and on the others wait?

It seems you with the foremost to stand in this debate,

And meet tbe burning battle. You first my banquet
shared

Whenever we Achaians for the kings a feast prepared. 340

There on roast meat you feasted and drank sweet cups
of wine,

So far as met your pleasure; but now you gaze supine,

Though ten bands of Achaians ere you fierce war should

find.”
Then, gazing on him grimly, said Odysseus, deft of
mind:
“ Atrides, what reproaches were those your anger
spake! 345

How are we lax in battle? When the Achaians wake
The charger-taming Trojans with the acrid din of war,
You shall see, if you desire it, if for these things you care,
Telemachos’ dear father* with the foremost on the plain,
’Mid the charger-taming Trojans; for what you speak is
vain.” 350
Then said King Agamemnon and, saying it, he smiled,
When he beheld his anger, and thus the words beguiled:
“‘Laertiades most generous, Odysseus many-skilled,
*Odysseus.
34 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

In nothing do I chide you, nor order what I willed.
I know in your dear bosom your mind just counsel

sought, 355
And what you found there ready, that was the thing I
thought.

But come, be this forgotten; if I spoke ought of bane,
May the immortals render all that I said in vain.”
Thus saying, he left them standing and to the others

sped.

He find the son of Tydeus, high-minded Diomed, 360

Standing amid the horses and chariots armed for use;

Sthenelos stood beside him, the son of Kapaneus.

King Agamemnon, seeing, to him reproofs expressed

And, speaking to him clearly, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“* Alas! son of bold Tydeus, horse-tamer famed afar,365
Why do you shrink and gaze on the bridges of the war?
*T was not the wont of Tydeus to stand and tremble so,
Yet far before his comrades cherished he fought the foe;
Those who looked on his labour, and who his deeds

beheld,
(I was not there, and saw not), have told how he ex-
celled. 370

A guest he sought Mukenai, without the train of war,

With godlike Polynikes, and asked for people there;

For they waged war to make of Thebes’ holy walls a prize,

And earnestly entreated to gain renowned allies.

The folk were fain to aid them and granted what they
prayed, 375

But Zeus showed his disfavour and fateful signs displayed.

They afterwards departed and journeyed on their road,

And came where the Asopos deep sedge and grasses
showed.

A message for the Thebans th’ Achaians by Tydeus sent.

He found full many Kadmeians at banquet when he
went, 380

Assembled in the mansions of th’ Eteoklean* might.

But horse-borne Tydeus felt not, though guest, the chill
of fright;

*Eteokles himself.
BOOK IV 85

Alone ’mid many Kadmeians, out of the festal hall

He called them forth to combat and lightly conquered
all;

Such was his aid Athena, who gave immortal force. 385

But rage seized the Kadmeians, goaders of flying horse;—

When he returned they waited in crowedd ambuscade

Of fifty youths; two chosen from them were leaders
made;

Maion, the son of Haimon, like the immortals, one,
One, war-strong Polyphontes, Autophonos’s son. 30
But Tydeus fought them strongly and gave disgraceful

doom;

He slew them, and one only he spared and sent him home;
And he, in sparing Maion, did as th’ immortals bade.
Such was Aitolian Tydeus; yet you, the son he had,
Are less than he in battle, and more in words confide.” 395
Thus he; but to him nothing strong Diomed replied,
Shamed by the stern reproaches made by the reverenced
king.
But famous Kapaneus’s son* said in answering:
** Atrides, speak not falsehoods, you can the truth aver.
We boast that we are greater than e’er our fathers
were; 400
We took the city Thebai, seven-gated capital,
And led a smaller army beneath Mars’ sacred wall,
Confiding in the signs of the gods and Zeus’s aid;
But they sank to destruction by boundless pride betrayed.
Be not, then, to our fathers like praise attributed.” 405
But, gazing on him grimly, strong Diomedes said:
“My Sthenelos, be silent and hear the words I say.
I blame not Agamemnon, the people’s guide and stay,
Who urges on to battle the well-greaved Achaian train.
Him will great glory follow if the Achaians gain 410
The victory o’er the Trojans and take sacred Ilion.
To him it were great grief if th’ Achaians were o’er-
thrown.
But come now, let us care for the prize by valour
crowned.”

*Sthenelos.
86 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus he, and from his chariot in arms leapt to the

ground,
And dire the brass resounded on the monarch’s smitten
breast, 415

So that a dauntless spirit had been by fear impressed.
As when upon the shore of the many-echoing main,
The waves throng in and thunder, driven by Zephyt’s

train;
They swell at first in ocean and, with a mighty roar,
Break on the rocks unyielding which guard the jagged
shore; 420
The swelling wave is broken, the sea’s foam flung afar;
Thus the thick troops of Danaans passed ever on to war.
Each chieftain gave the order, in silence marched the rest
(Youcouldnot say such numbers a single voice possessed.)
They obeyed their chiefs in silence, and round them all
a flame 425
Shone from their varied armour which wrapped them
as they came.
The Trojans were like many white sheep in rich man’s

fold,

Which stand and wait the milker till the snowy milk is
told,

And cease not in their bleating, for they hear their lamb-
kins cry;

Thus the clamour of the Trojans from their wide host
rose on high. 430

For not one call they echoed and not one voice they bare,

But many tongues were mingled, and many nations there.

They were impelled by Ares and Athena fiery-eyed,

By Fear and Flight and Discord, whom sateless furies
guide,

The sister and companion of Ares homicide; 435

Small is at first her stature, but as the days go forth,

Her head is raised to heaven while she walks upon the
earth,

The roar and din and struggle she views with equal ken,

And, going through the tumult, augments the groans of
men,

But when they came together, shield ox-hide shield
BOOK IV 87

beset, 440
And lances clashed with lances, and brass-clad warriors
met;
And bossy bucklers crashed on the bucklers of the foes,
And high above the tumult a mighty clamour rose.
The wail and cry of triumph announced the varied mood
Of men who slew or perished; the earth flowed foul with
blood. 445
As when the wintry torrents which down the mountain go,
Mingle their rapid waters, borne in tumultuous flow
From wide unfailing sources, and in deep chasms crash,
And far off in the mountains the shepherd hears the clash;
Thus by the shout and clamour of their meeting all was
_- thrilled. 450
Anilochos, the first one, a Trojan warrior killed,
Thalysiades Echepolos, who ’mid the foremost fought;
He struck the helmet’s summit with densest horsehair

wrought,

And pierced him in the forehead; the brazen point
assailed

The bone which lay within it; and night his vision
veiled. 455

He fell as falls a turret when war’s strong currents meet.
King Elephenor seized on the fallen by the feet,
Chalkodon’s son Elphenor, great-souled Abantes’ chief,
And drew him from the javelins his arms to spoil in brief;
But short was his endeavour, for, as he dragged the
dead, 460
Great-souled Agenor saw him and his brazen javelin sped,
And struck him where his buckler exposed the side be-
neath,
Which he had bared in bending; his limbs were loosed
in death.
Thus him the life deserted; o’er him was labour dire
For Trojans and Achaians; and they, like wolves in
ire, 465
Rushed grimly at each other and slaughtered man for
man.
Then Telamonian Ajax struck great Anthemion’s son,
A gallant youth, Simoisios; and whom his mother bore,
88 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

As she came down from Ida, on Simois’s shore,

Where she her parents followed to see their sheep dis-
played; 470

Thus was he called Simoisios; nor to his parents paid

The care they gave in nurture; his years were few and
vain,

Since by the spear of Ajax great-minded he was slain.

Now, while the youth came onward he* pierced the dexter

breast,
And through the adverse shoulder the brazen javelin
pressed. 475

And, like a poplar slender, he fell in dust to earth,
Which in the watery places of great swamps has its birth;
And smooth the graceful branches upon the summit grow;
But he who makes a chariot with bright iron lays it low,
That he may bend to felloes of an all-beauteous car; 480
And there it lies and withers by the river’s banks afar;
Thus Zeus-descended Ajax despoiled Anthemides dead.
But Antiphos, Priam’s offspring, in varied thorax clad,
Hurledat him in the tumult, vainly, his pointed spear;
It struck the thigh of Leukos, Odysseus’ brave com-
peer, 485
Who dragged the slain man’s body away upon the sand.
But he dropped down beside it, and the dead fell from

_ his hand.
Then through his mind Odysseus felt rage unmeasured
pass,
He pressed on through the foremost, all armed in shining
brass,
And stood, anear them going, and flung his glancing
spear, 490

Observing well about him. The Trojans to the rear

Pressed when they saw him aiming; not vain the shaft
was thrown;

The spurious son of Priam it pierced, Demokoon,

Who came there from Abydos, where speedy mares he
bred.

In anger for his comrade his spear Odysseus sped 495

And struck him on the temple; the other side impaled

* Ajax.
BOOK IV 89

The brazen-pointed javelin, and night his vision veiled.
He fell with crash resounding, his armour o’er him rang,
And back the quailing vanguard and noble Hektor

sprang.

The Argives shouted greatly and dragged away the
slain, (00

And far their ranks pressed onward.—Apollo raged
amain,

From Pergamos beholding, and shouted to the plain:
“ Rouse ye, horse-taming Trojans, nor from the Ar-
gives turn;
Their flesh is not of iron, nor stone, by blows unworn,
That they the brass, flesh-rending, flung by your hands
may bear, 505
Nor fights the son of Thetis, Achilles with fair hair;
Yet, staying by the vessels, he burns with frenzied ire.”
Thus shouted from the city to them the godhead dire;
Th’ Achaians Zeus’s daughter, most glorious Trito-born,
Roused, passing through the army, whene’er she saw
them turn. 510
And next Amarynkides Diores Fate ensnared.
A jagged rocky fragment struck'on the ankle bared
Of his right leg, and cast it a Thrakian chief of fame,
Imbrasides, great Piroos, who from fair Ainos came.
And both the bones and tendons the shameless missile
broke; 515
Supine in dust extended he fell before the stroke,
And to his dear companions stretched both his hands for
aid,
Exhaling life; but Piroos, whose hand the wound had
made,
Rushed on and, by the navel, with brazen spear impaled;
His entrails all gushed earthward, and night his vision
veiled. 520
As he was rushing onward, Aitolian Thoas flung
Against his breast a javelin, the brass fixed in the lung.
And, going near him, Thoas the mighty javelin tore
From out his breast; his falchion keen from its sheath
he bore,
And struck the middle belly and took the life away. 525
go THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He did not strip the armour, for the allied array

Of the hair-combing Thrakians, with long spears in their
hands,

Pushed him, though great and mighty and noble, from
their bands,

And he turned back before them who greater force dis-
played.

And thus, beside each other, these two in dust were
laid; 530

And one led on the Thrakians, one, th’ Epeians brazen-
dressed

But round them many others in death were laid at rest.

No one could blame the battle, who through its midst

might pass

Unhurt by flying javelins, unsmit by pointed brass,

Watched by Athena Pallas who, taking by the hand, 535

Should turn aside the weapons and the missiles’ flight
withstand.

For many of the Achaians and the Trojans on that day

Prone in the dust extended, by one another lay.

BOOK V.

THE EXPLOITS OF DIOMEDES.

Then to Diomed Tydides Pallas Athena gave
Strength and undaunted daring ’mid all the Argives
brave,
That he might shine in battle and lustrous fame acquire.
She kindled on his helmet and shield undying fire,
Like that of fiercest splendour by the star* of summer
shed 5
When wet by baths of Ocean; such shoulders lit and head.
She urged him to the middle where the greatest numbers
ran.
There was a Trojan, Dares, a rich and blameless man,
A priest he of Hephaistos; and two sons he had there,
*Sirius.
BOOK V gl

One, Phegeus, one, Idaios, both knowing well all war. 10
These two without companions came on with furious

bound;

They battled from the chariot while he* stood on the
ground.

And when they were together, coming from both sides
near,

Phegeus, the first, flung forward his great long-shadowed
spear;

O’er Diomed’s left shoulder the spear’s point struck the
sand, 15

And wounded not; Tydides then rushed with brass in
hand;

And not in vain the javelin fled from his hand to mar,

But struck between the nipples and forced him} from
the car.

Idaios then leapt from it, leaving the beauteous wain,

Nor dared to stay upon it and protect his brother slain; 20

But by no means was able to escape black Fate by flight,

Had not Hephaistos guarded and saved him, veiled by
night,

That not his aged father unmeasured grief might sway,

The son of great-souled Tydeus the horses drove away,

That to the hollow vessels his comrades might convey. 25

But when the great-souled Trojans Dares’ two sons
beheld,

One, flying from the combat, one, by the chariot killed,

Their minds were tossed by passion; but fierce-eyed
Athena took

The hand of rushing Ares and with these words bespoke:

“ Ares destroying mortals, blood-stained, o’erthrowing

walls, 30
Leave we th’ Achaians and Trojans to struggle in these
brawls;

And who shall have the glory let Father Zeus decide,
But let us leave the battle and Zeus’s wrath avoid.”
Thus saying, she from the cembat impetuous Ares led,
And caused him to be seated by Skamander’s grassy
bed. 35

*Diomed. +Phegeus.
92 ILIAD OF HOMER

The Danaans turned the Trojans; each chief a man
slew then,

And first of all great Hodios Agamemnon, king of men,

Chief of the Halizonians, cast from the chariot’s hight.

He* struck the back of Hodios with spear when heft took
flight;

It ie eae the shoulders and through the bosom
sprang. 40

Het fell with crash resounding, and his armour o’er
him rang.

Idomeneus slew Phaistos, Maionian Boros’ son,
Who came from fertile Tarné to sacred Ilion.
Idomeneus, spear-famous, with his long lance afar
Struck him in the right shoulder as he sprang on his

car. 45
He fell out of the chairot, and foul night seized in prey;
Idomeneus’ attendants carried his spoils away.

Atrides Menelaos with his sharp javelin slew

Skamandrios, son of Strophios, a huntsman skilled and
true;

He was a mighty hunter, for Artemis had taught —50

To shoot the varied monsters the mountain forests
brought.

But Artemis, rejoicing in arrows, naught availed,

Nor skill in distant shooting in which he erst prevailed.

And spear-famed Menelaos Atrides in attack,

As he fled on before him, wounded him inthe back 55

With spear; between the shoulders and through the
breast it sprang.

And prone he fell, and, falling, his armour o’er him rang.

Merion craftsman Phereklos, the son of Harmon,

killed,
Whose handsknew cunning labour, in all arts dedal
skilled;
Pallas Athena loved him and many an honour paid; 60
And he for Alexander the equal vessels made,
The spring of all the evils which to all the Trojans fell,
And to himself, not knowing the godheads’ oracle.
Him Merion pursuing, just as he overtook,
*Agamemnon. ‘tHodios.
BOOK V 93

In the hip dexter wounded; the point passed on and

struck 65
Right through close to the bladder, passing beneath the
bone.

Kneeling he fell, lamenting, and death concealed his own.
Then Meges slew Pedaios, Antenor’s spurious son;
Divine Theano nurtured and left no care undone,
As with her own dear children, to please her husband
dear. 70
But spear-renowned Phylides, to him approaching near,
The back part of his head struck with his sharp pointed
spear;
And through the teeth it drove on and cut the tongue be-
neath.
He fell in dust and seized on the cold brass with his teeth.
Euaimon’s son, Eurypylos noble Hypsenor killed, 75
Son of great-souled Dolopion, Skamander’s priest all-
skilled,
To whom, like an immortal, the people’s grace was shown;
And, as he fled before him, Euaimon’s famous son,
Eurypylos, pursuing, rushed on him with his brand
And, striking in the shoulder, cut off his heavy hand. 80
The bloody hand fell earthward, lost to his agonies,
And purple Death seized on him, and strong Fate closed
his eyes.
Thus in the headlong battle they toiled on either side.
And which force owned Tydides you might not well de-
cide,
If he were with the Trojans or the Achaian train. 85
For like a mountain torrent he rushed upon the plain,
Which breaks in wrack the bridges in its tumultuous
course;
And laboured bridges hold not nor check its headlong
force,
And not the thickset hedges of verdant fields retain
Its rapid flood when swollen by Zeus’s heavy rain; go
And many fair works of manhood are in its fury lost;
Thus the dense Trojan phalanx was by Tydides tost;
Nor did they wait his coming though many a warrior
shone.
94 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

When this to noble Pandar, Lykaon’s son, was known:
That he confused the phalanx and thundered on the
plain, 95
He drew against Tydides his crooked bow amain,
And shot him rushing onward, in his right shoulder, true
In the hollow of the thorax, and the bitter shaft rushed
through
The part exposed before it; and blood the thorax dyed.
And loud at this the noble son of Lykaon cried: 100
“ Rouse ye, great-minded Trojans, goaders of flying
steeds.
For, wounded by my arrow, the best Achaian bleeds;
He will not long the arrow endure, if Zeus’s son,*
The King, inspired metruly and from Lykia urged me on.”
He mocked thus; the sharp arrow broke not Tydides’
mood, 105
He turned back and in front of his car and horses stood,
And Kapaneus’s offspring, bold Sthenelos, addressed:
 ““ Dear Sthenelos, leave the chariot and come to me in

haste,
That you may from my shoulder the bitter shaft draw
forth.”
Thus he; and from the chariot Sthenelos leapt to
earth; 110

He came and the swift arrow out of the shoulder drew;
But through the twisted armour the spurting blood-
drops flew.
Then Diomed, good in battle, prayed to Athena thus:
“Hear me, unwearied daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus,
If e’er you to my father or me lent friendly aid, It5
In hostile fight, Athena, be now your love displayed;
Give me to slay this warrior and reach with rushing
spear,
Who shot, anticipating, and boasts that not long here
Shall I behold the splendid gleams of the sunlight fair.”
Thus spoke he, praying; Pallas Athena heard his

prayer; 120
On feet and hands and members a lightness she im-
pressed

*Apollo.
BOOK V 95

And, standing close beside him, with wingéd words

addressed:
“With strength now, Diomedes, against the Trojans
fight;
Your sire’s strength in your bosom I place; it knows not
fright;
Such had the horseman Tydeus, who brandished bucklers
bore.— 125

I dissipate the darkness, which dimmed your eyes before,

That well you may distinguish between the gods and men.

Now if a god, to tempt you, shall come within your ken,

With the other gods immortal do not presume to fight;

But if fair Aphrodité, Jove’s daughter, meet your sight 130

Amid the strife and warring, her wounds with sharp
brass bear.”

Saying this, fierce-eyed Athena turned back and left

him there.

Tydides to the foremost who fought in haste returned;

Though he before with ardour to fight the Trojans

burned,
Now threefold strength possessed him; such does a lion
thrill, 135

Whom a shepherd in the country grazes, but does not
kill,
When, the fleecy sheep pursuing, he leaps within the
ard;
This but incites his fury, the shepherd leaves his ward
And flies within the sheepfold, and the sheep deserted fly
And, huddled in confusion, on one another lie; 140
But he, rejoicing greatly, leaps from the lofty fold;
Thus fiercely with the Trojans mixed Diomedes bold.
Then Astynoos and Hypiron, pastor of folk, he slew.
To one above the mamma his brass-shod javelin flew;
With his great sword the other he ’mid neck and shoulder
struck, 145
And from the neck the shoulder and eke the back he took.
He left them and great Abas and Polyidos sought;
Eurydamas, their father, what dreams portended taught,
But when they went he told not their dreams foreboding
harms,
96 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And mighty Diomedes despoiled them of their arms. 150

He rushed to Xanthos, Thoon, both sons of Phainops
sage,

And both by him were cherished, who withered in sad
age;

No other son begot he to give his hoarded store.

But Diomed despoiled them and from both the dear life

tore,
And left to their old father dark care and sorrow’s
gloom, 155

Since not alive from battle they came to greet his home;
And all his gathered treasures his distant kinsmen
shared.
Two sons of Dardan Priam, who in one chariot fared,
Chromios and Echemmon he took from off their car.
And as a lion rushing amid the bushy scar, 160
Where herds of beeves are grazing, breaks a heifer’s
neck or steer’s;

Thus from their car Tydides cast them despite their
fears,

Which made them all unwilling; he took the arms they
wore,

But gave his friends the horses who to the vessels bore.

But when A‘neas saw him breaking the ranks of

men, 165
He went amid the battle and the crash of spears and
then

Sought after godlike Pandar, where’er he kept his

bound.
The son of old Lykaon, blameless and strong, be found;
And stood apace before him and thus addressed him

there:
“Where is your bow, O Pandar, your wingéd arrows,
where, 170

And glory? For disputes it no man whom here we view,
And no man in your Lykia claims greater skill than you.
Shoot at this man an arrow, raising to Zeus your hands;
Whoe’er he be that conquers (for to the Trojan bands
He wrought full many an evil and loosened many a
knee 175
BOOK V 97

Of strong and able warriors); unless a god he be
Who bears the Trojans rancour for slighted sacrifice;
And they descend to ruin on whom a god’s wrath lies.”
The famed son of Lykaon his answer thus expressed:
“ Afneas, bearing counsel for the Trojans brazen-
dressed, 180
He seems like bold Tydides by every mark revealed;
I know him by his helmet high-crested and his shield,
And by gazing on his horses; yet he a god may be.
But if a man, I say that Tydeus’ warlike son is he;
Yet not without a godhead his rage were thus en-

dowed, 185
One of the gods stand near him with shoulders veiled in
cloud,

Who turned the rapid arrow away ere it could smite.
For I sent forth an arrow and struck his shoulder right,
And through the breastplate’s hollow the flying missile

fled;
And I thought that I had sent him to the monarch of the
dead, 190

Yet I did not destroy him; some angered god is there.
T have no steeds nor chariot on which to ride to war;
Yet in Lykaon’s mansions eleven fair cars are told,
Well-built and newly finished, and round them cloths
are rolled;
And, by each one, the horses paired by each other
stand, 195
And feed on snowy barley and stores of wheat command.
And truly, when I parted, old Lykaon, warrior brave,
Me, in his well-built mansions, full many a counsel gave;
He ordered me to ride on the horses and the cars,
And tower above the Trojans amid the mighty wars; 200
But I did not obey him (though it far better were),
Because I feared my coursers might lack for forage here;
For many were in the city, and the steeds had been well
fed.
I left them in the stables and on foot to Ilion sped,
Confiding in my arrows; but they in naught availed; 205
‘Two chiefs have I already with these vain shafts assailed,
Tydides and Atrides; from both of them I drew
98 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Unfeigned blood when I struck them, but simply roused
the two,

That day with evil fortune the curved bow I took down

From its peg and led the Trojans to pleasant Ilion, 210

That thus a grace to Hektor divine might come from me.

If e’er I go back safely and with these eyes may see

My cherished wife and country and mansion widely-
spread,

May then some hostile warrior at once cut off my head,

If I cast not bow and arrows in the shining fire amain 215

By my hand marred and broken; for they went with me
in vain.”

The Trojan chief, Aineas, to him in turn replied:

“ Speak thus no more; but other event will not betide

Till we against this warrior, with horses and with car,

Go out to meet in battle and try with arms in war. 220

Yet come, mount now my chariot that Trojan steeds you
view,

Swift on the plain and skillful to fly and to pursue;

And safely to the city we two our course may bend,

If Zeus to Diomedes shall still his grace extend.

But come, take now the whip and receive the reins all
bright, 225

And I will mount the chariot that I by you may fight;

Or you oppose this warrior, and I the steeds will guide.”

The famed son of Lykaon to him in turn replied:
“Hold you the reins, Aeneas, and drive your steeds to

war,
Who, for their old lord, better will draw the curving
car 230

(If we by fate of battle from Tydeus’ son shall fare),
Lest they from fear grow restive and feel no wish to bear
Us two away from combat, seeking your voice in vain;
Then the son of great-souled Tydeus may rush upon us
twain
And kill us, and the horses entire-hoofed drive away. 235
Your chariot and your coursers yourself drive to the fray,
And I will meet him rushing, receiving with sharp spear.”
..Thus spoke they; then ascended the varied chariot
near,
BOOK V 99

And fast against Tydides their rapid steeds impelled.
But Kapaneus’s offspring, famed Sthenelos, beheld, 240
And quickly to Tydides his winged words addressed:

““'Tydides Diomedes, most cherished in my breast,

I see two mighty warriors whose rage to fight you glows,
And they have strength unbounded; the one, versed well
in bows,

Is Pandaros who boasts him Lykaon’s son to be; 245
/Eneas is the other; great Anchises’ son is he;

Aphrodité is his mother. Come, let us leave the strife,
Nor thus rush through the vanguard, lest you lose your

cherished life.”

But, gazing on him grimly, strong Diomedes said:
“Do not to fear exhort me, since I will not be led; 250
I was not born for skulking nor by base wiles to fight,
Nor was I born to tremble with yet unbroken might;

I scorn to mount my chariot but, as I am, I go;

Pallas Athena suffers me not to fear the foe.

Yet these their rapid coursers shall not from us convey;255

Both shall not fly in safety, though one escape the fray.

Anotherthing I tell you, conceal it in your mind;

If Athena many-counselled for me such fame designed

As to slaughter both these chieftains, these swift steeds
here detain

By stretching from the chariot’s high rim the bridle
rein. 260

Rush on Aneas’ horses and seize them with your hands

And from the Trojans drive to the well-greaved Achaian
bands.

For these are of the lineage of those which Tros once won

Of far-seeing Zeus as ransom for Ganymed, his son;

Thus they are best of horses which go neath sun or
dawn. 265

By king of men Anchises a stolen breed was drawn;

Laomedon not knowing, he led mares to the place,

Thus in his courts receiving six foals of this high race;

Of these he kept four coursers and at his mangers fed,

But two he gave Avneas, and terror dire they spread; 270

If we these,two should ravish great glory would we gain.”

Thus, spoke they to each other as they passed o’er the

plain;
100 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

They urged their rapid horses and swift the two sped on.
And first addressed Tydides Lykaon’s famous son:
“Mighty in mind and warlike, illustrious Tydeus
son, 275
My swift shaft did not slay you, the bitter arrow’s flight;
But now with flying javelin I seek once more to smite.”
He said and, strongly shaking, flung his long-shadowed
spear
And at Tydides’ buckler; the brazen point flew clear
Through the firm orb opposing and on the breastplate
struck. 280
Then, shouting to him loudly, Lykaon’s famed son spoke:
“You through the flank are wounded and have not
long to live,
If what I think deceives not; to me great fame you give.”
But him without confusion strong Diomed addressed:
“You erred and did not strike me and will not cease
your quest, 285
I think, till one or the other of you two fall afield,
And with your blood sate Ares, warrior with bull’s hide
shield.”
Saying this, he flung; Athena drove on the javelin true
To the nose, close by the eyeball, and it pierced the white
teeth through.
The brass unwearied cut, then, the tongue’s last root
within; 290
The flying point found exit at the extremest chin.
He tumbled from the chariot, and round him clanged his
mail,
Varied and brightly shining, and trembled at the bale
The rapid-footed coursers; and loosed were soul and

strength.
#ineas then rushed forward, with shield and spear
of length, 295
Fearing that the Achaians might drag the corse from
sight;

And strode there, like a lion confiding in his might;

He held his spear before him and his all-equal shield,
Prepared to kill the warrior who crossed the hostile field,
Shouting with cries terrific. A rocky fragment there 300
BOOK V 101

Tydides, seized, huge burden which not two men could
bear,

Such as to-day are mortals; he shook with ease alone.

On Aneas’ hip he cast it where the thigh turns in the
bone;

And this is called the socket; the socket broke within;

The rough rock broke both tendons and tore away the
skin. 305

Thus to his knees the hero sank in his agonies,

On earth his strong hand resting; and black night veiled
his eyes.

Now king of men, AEneas, had been destruction’s

thrall,

If Jove’s child, Aphrodité, had not quickly known it all,

His mother, who, t’ Anchises bore him while beeves
he fed; 310

Around her son all-cherished her snowy arms she spread;

The folds of her bright garments she held before him so

They should turn the arrows from him, and no swift-
horsed Danaan foe

Should fling brass in his bosom and take his life away.

Thus she her son well-cherished in stealth bore from

the fray; 315

But Kapaneus’s offspring the words did not forget

Which war-strong Diomedes had for his guidance set.

He took the whole-hoofed horses away from din and roar,

And from the chariot’s railing stretched out the reins
tney bore;

With Af)eas’ fair-maned horses he rushed along the
plain, 320

And drove them from the Trojans to the well-greaved
Argive train,

And to Deipylos gave them (his comrade dear and kind,

Whom most of friends he honoured, for they were alike
in mind),

To drive to the hollow vessels. But his own steeds and
car

The hero mounted, taking the reins which shone afar; 325

With strong-hoofed steeds Tydides he sought im eager
mood;
102 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Tydides Aphrodité with cruel brass pursued;

He knew she was unwarlike, nor ruled o’er men in war,

Nor was ehe as Athena or dire Bellona are.

But when he had o’ertaken, having through a great crowd
run, 330

His mighty spear extending, great-minded Tydeus’ son

Her hand's extreme part wounded, rushing with the sharp
spear

Upon the feeble goddess; swiftly in its career,

‘Through her ambrosial garment which the very Graces

wove,
Above the palm extremest, through the skin the javelin
drove. 335

Then flowed her blood immortal, ichor in gods divine,
Since bread they do not eat of nor drink of sparkling wine.
[And they, thus being bloodless, the name immortal won.]
ut she with shrieks resounding cast from her hands her
son;
Phoebus Apollo guarded him with adark cloud so, —_ 340
And with his hands protected, that no swift-horsed
Danaan foe
Might fling brass in his bosom and take his life away.
But warlike Diomedes shouted at her dismay:
“Turn backward, Zeus’s daughter, the war and battle
leave;
Ist not enough for you that weak women you deceive 345
But, since in war you mingle, henceforth I think that you
Will shrink from strife and warring, though distant
from your view.”
Thus he; but she, distracted, went off, by toil subdued;
Andjher swift Iris taking, led from the multitude,
Worn as she was by anguish; so, black grew her fair
skin. 350
Then found she fierce Mars sitting on the left of the
battle’s din;
A veil of darkness shrouded his rapid steeds and spear;
But on her knees she fell and besought her brother dear,
With many a protestation for his steeds brow-decked
with gold:
“‘ Dear brother, give your horses, me let your care

enfold, 355
BOOK V 103

So I may reach Olympus where the godheads’ dwellings
are.

For sore the wound oppresses which me a mortal bare;

A mortal man, Tydides, who would war with Zeus, the
Sire.”

“ Thus she; Mars gave the horses with brows of golden
fire.
The chariot she ascended, her heart consumed by
pains, 360
And by her Iris mounted and took in hand the reins.
She scourged the steeds to drive them, and not averse

they flew.

They reached the gods’ seat quickly, Olympus high and
blue;

There agile, wind-swift Iris restrained the coursers
good,

And loosed them from the chariot and gave ambrosial
food. 365

At once the goddess Venus fell at Dioné’s knee,
Her mother’s who, caressing her daughter lovingly,
Fondled with hand all-tender and said the word and
spoke:
“ Dear child, who of th’ immortals such outrage on
you wroke,

In wrath, as if in malice you compassed evil wiles?” 370
To her at once responded Aphrodité, loving smiles :
“The son of Tydeus wounded, presumptuous Diomed;

Since my dear son A’neas I from the battle led,
Who is, of all men mortal, to me the dearest far.
No more th’ Achaians and Trojans rage in the din of

war, 375

Yet now, in truth, the Danaans with the immortals
fight.”

Her answered then Dioné, divine ’mid godheads
bright,

“Endure, my child, and bear it, though grieved by
pain obscure,

For many who hold Olympus disgraceful griefs endure

From men; and grievous anguish we to one another

gave.. 380
104 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Such Ares bore when Otos and Ephialtes brave,

‘The children of Aloeus, with ponderous fetters chained.

And he in brazen prison for thirteen months remained.

And now had perished Ares, insatiable of war,

Had not his kind stepmother, Eeriboia fair, 385

‘Told of the deed to Hermes who Ares freed by fraud,

Wasted and worn; the fetters harsh had subdued the god.

And Hera, also, suffered when Amphitryon’s brave son
pressed

The trple-pointed arrow into her dexter breast;

‘Then pain unmeasured took her, and cureless anguish
tore. 390

And, with all these, huge Hades a rapid arrow bore,

With which to him the hero, son* of aegis-bearing Zeus,

Among the dead at Pylos gave wounds and pain profuse.

He went to great Olympus which Zeus’s domes sustains,

Wrung in his heart by anguish and pierced by bitter

pains; 395

The shaft in his strong shoulder grieved him with pain
profound;

But Paion o’er it scattered soft drugs and healed the
wound.

Such anguish could not slay him, for he was deathless
born.

Rash, violent and lawless, by conscience’ pangs unworn,
Who pain the gods with arrows—those who Olympus
hold! 400
Athena fierce-eyed goddess, drove on this warrior bold;
Nor does the son of Tydeus, in mind infatuate, know
That they full soon must perish who are th’ immortals’
foe;
And ne’er shall sons address them by their knees and
call them sire,
When they return from warring, and from the battle
dire. 405
Let now Tydides guard well, though he abound in might,
That not a better warrior than you meet him in fight;
Lest some time Aigialia, Adrastos’ prudent child,
Fair wife of Diomedes, tamer of horses wild,
*Hercules.
BOOK V 105

Shall rouse up all her maidens by wailings manifest, 410
Desiring her youth’s husband, th’ Achaians’ first and
best.”
‘Thus she; the hand from ichor she cleansed with deft
address
With both her hands; it healed and the heavy pains grew
less.
Bur Hera and Athena, while gazing on the scene,
With cutting words excited Zeus Kronides’s spleen. 415
Mid them fherce-eyed Athena began with accents due:
“ Zeus Sire, will you be angry at what I say to you?
Sure, Aphrodité, urging some Achaian woman on
‘Vo live among the Trojans who so her love has won,
While she caressed th’ Achaian with garments fair and
grand, 420
Upon a golden buckle has torn her tender hand.”
Thus spoke she; and the father of men and godheads
smiled,
And, golden Aphrodité calling, addressed his child:
““Not for your hand is fitted, my child, the works of

war,
But let the works more pleasant of marriage be your
care, 425

Leave all this to swift Ares and to Athena’s force.”
And thus with one another they held divine discourse.
But warlike Diomedes ’gainst A‘neas was impelled,
Though knowing that Apollo his hands above him held;
Yet he the mighty godhead revered not, but desired 430
Ever to kill ASneas and seize his arms admired.
Thrice then he rushed upon him with hope to slay re-
vealed,
And three times there Apollo repelled his shining shield.
Yet when he rushed a fourth time, like godhead man-
ifest,
Apollo Hekaergos with menace dire addressed: 435
“ Consider, son of Tydeus, consider and retire,
Nor let thoughts known to godheads be sought by your
desire;
For by no means are equal nor similar by birth
The race of gods immortal and men who walk the earth.”
106 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus spoke he, and Tydides a span retraced his
path, 440
Thus to avoid far-darting Apollo’s baleful wrath.
And far off from the tumult Apollo A/neas bare
To Pergamos all-sacred; he had a temple there.
Then Artemis, rejoicing in shafts, and Leto healed
By th’ altar of the temple and many a grace revealed. 445
But silver-bowed Apollo like him a phantom formed,
The image of Aineas and like the hero armed.
Around this phantom Trojans and divine Achaians
fought
Fiercely with one another, and slighter targets brought,
And ox-hide shields well-circled, ’gainst one another’s
breast. 450
But then Apollo Phoebus impetuous Mars addressed:
““Q Ares man-destroying, gore-stained, who walls
destroy,
Will you not now Tydides drien from the fight’s annoy ?
For Venus first he wounded upon the hand and wrist,
And afverwards assailed me, like a godhead mani-
fest.” 455
Thus he, and took his station on Pergamos’s hight.
But baleful Mars incited the Trojan ranks to fight;
Swift Akamas resembling, who led the Thrakian bands,
He gave the sons, Zeus-nurtured, of Priam his commands:
“OQ you, ye sons of Priam, the great Zeus-nurtured
king, 460
How long yet will you suffer th’ Achaians’ slaughtering ?
Is ‘t till around the portals well-wrought in war they
shine ?--
A chief falls whom we honoured as much as Hektor
divine;
This hero is Aineas, son of Anchises’ brave.
Come, let us from the tumult our good companion

save.” 465
Thus saying, the strength and spirit of each he filled
with fire.

But now Sarpedon Hektor divine rebuked in ire.
“Hektor, where has that strength gone you claimed
ere this to hold?
BOOK V 107

When you said that your own kindred, you and your
brothers bold

Alone could keep the city without aid or allies. 470

But none of these am I able to see or recognize;

Yet they crouch down and tremble as dogs a lion fear,

And we are first in battle who came as helpers here.

And I, for your alliance, came from a distant land,

For far away is Lykia and eddying Xanthos’ strand; 475

And there I left my consort cherished and tender son,

And many a fair possession each needy man would own.

And I exhort the Lykians and seek all eagerly

‘To wage war with that hero; and have not that with me

Which the Achaians can plunder or lightly bear in
hand; 480

But you stand here in silence and do not e’en command

The other folk to combat or to defend their wives.

Beware, lest you, like victims in linen netted gyves,

Become to hostile warriors an easy spoil and prey,

Who soon your peopled city in ruins wide will lay. 485

For all these things it seems you to watch by night and
day,

Beseeching all the chieftains of the helpers called from
far

To keep up their endeavours and shun intestine war.”

Sarpedon spoke; and anguish the mind of Hektor

wrung;

At once out of his chariot in arms to earth he sprung 490

And he, his sharp spears shaking, went through the host
entire,

Urging them on to battle, and woke a combat dire.

And they were turned from flying and ’gainst th’ Acha-
ians stood;

But the Argives thronged to meet them, and in no fearful
mood.

As when wind bears the sacred chaff on the threshing-
floor, 495

While men stand there and winnow, and yellow Ceres’
store

(While all the winds urge onward) divides in chaff and
grain,
108 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And all the chaff-heaps whiten; thus, then, th’ Achaian
train

By dust above were whitened, which over them was
driven

By the feet of rapid horses to the many-brazen heaven, 500

Who mixed again in battle; the charioteers turned back,

And their strength of hands bore onward in front direct
attack.

And rushing Ares darkness o’er all the battle bare,

And, to assist the Trojans, turned quickly everywhere;

‘Thus he fulfilled the charge of Phoebus with golden

sword, 505
And urged the Trojans onward and their warlike rage
restored,

When he perceived that Pallas Athena was not nigh;
For she was to the Danaans a helper and ally.

But Phoebus sent Aeneas from his rich shrine and then
He gave strength to the bosom of that great chief of

men. 510
ZEneas mixed with his comrades, and they rejoiced
anon

When they beheld him living and scathless coming on,

And having strength surpassing, but questioned him
in naught;

Another task allowed not, which the silver-bowed* had
brought,

And man-destroying Ares, and Discord’s sateless ire. 515

Odysseus, both Ajaces and Diomedes fire

The Danaans on to warring. Alone, they had no fear,

Nor of the Trojans’ valour nor of the warcries near;

Yet, like the clouds, they waited, for coming combat

braced,
Which o’er the mountain summits in time of calm Zeus
placed, 520

While sleep the strength of Boreas and every raging blast

Which with their shrill breath scatter the shadowy
vapours fast;

Thus Danaans waited Trojans firmly and undismayed.—

Atrides through the host went and many an order made:

*Apollo.
BOOK V 109

“O friends, be constant warriors and keep a valiant
heart; 525
Have a shame of one another in the mighty battle’s part.
Of shame-respecting warriors more go unscathed than fall;
No fame is for the flying, nor any strength withal.”
Then quickly flung his javelin and struck a chief well-
known,
Great-souled Aéneas’ comrade, Pergasian Deikoon, 530
Whom as the sons of Priam the Trojans honour paid,
For promptly ’mid the foremost was he in fight arrayed.
King Agamemnon struck him on the buckler with his

spear.
This did not ward the javelin; the brass passed through it
clear
And in the lowest stomach through the belt extended
sprang; 535
He fell with crash resounding, and his armour o’er him
rang.
Then of the Danaan chieftains Eneas slaughtered
these,—

Orsilochos and Krethon, two sons of Diokles;
Their father had his dwelling in Pherai’s well-built place,
In wealth rich; from Alpheios, the river, came his

race; 540
This through the Pylians’ country flows from its ample
spring.

Orsilochos was* his offspring, of many men the king;
Orsilochos engendered great-minded Diokles,

And Diokles engender ed twin boys by Fate’s decree,
Orsilochos and Krethon, both knowing well all war. 545
And they in bloom of manhood, on the sable ships, afar
Followed the Argives onward to Ilion’s steed-rich plain,
Seeking to conquer honour for the Atridae twain,
Menelaos and Agamemnon, but the end of death made

vain.
And they were like two lions who in mountain summits
rude 550

Are nourished by their mother in the holds of the deep
hates wood

*Alpheios’s

 
110 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And they two seize on oxen and sheep with fatness filled,

And devastate men’s stables till both of them are killed

By hands of men who combat, by the sharp brass withal;

Thus did these, by the hands of Aineas conquered,
fall, 555

As in the darkling forests crash down the fir trees tall.

But Mars-loved Menelaos, who saw them falling,

mourned,

Straight through the van he hastened, by blazing brass
adorned,

Shaking his spear; for Ares aroused his strength amain,

Thinking that by the hand of Aineas he would be
slain. 560

But when Antilochos saw him, great-minded Nestor’s
son,

He hastened through the vanguard, fearing that ill were
done

To the pastor of the people,* which would waste their
labour sore.

They twof their hands and pointed spears ’gainst each
other bore,

Fiercely desiring battle; Antilochos came near 565

The pastor of the people, Aineas stayed not here,

_Although a mighty warrior, when he beheld the twain

Standing beside each other. Then they drew back the
slain

To the Achaian people and gave them to the hands

Of their companions, turning to fight in the foremost
bands. 570

A chieftain, Ares’ equal, Pylaimenes, they killed,

Chief of the Paphlagonians great-souled, with bucklers
skilled.

Atrides Menelaos spear-famed, with javelin thrown,

Struck him as he was standing and hit the collar-bone.

Antilochos struck Mydon (th’ attendant charioteer), 575

Son of Atymnias, turning the whole-hoofed horses near,

Striking the middle elbow with rock, and from his hands

The reins, all white with ivory, fell to the dusty sands.

Antilochos rushed on him and on the temple smote

*Menelaos. +Menelaos and Aineas.
BOOK V WII

With falchion, and he, panting, fell from the car well-
wrought 580

Headlong; in dust he weltered, on head and shoulders
spanned,

And long oe there upright (for he chanced on heavy
sand),

Till the horses struck him earthward and cast in dust—
amain,

But Antilochos lashed and drove them to the host and
Danaan train.

But Hektor, in the orders, perceived and rushed on

grim, 585
And shouted; the strong phalanx of Trojans followed
him;

And Ares and Bellona revered were leaders there;
She holding monstrous tumult and horrid din of war;
But in his hands fierce Ares brandished a mighty spear,
And now in front of Hektor he marched, then in the
rear. 590
But warlike Diomedes, seeing him, was touched by fear.
And as a man unpractised, crossing a breadth of plain,
Stops at a rapid river which flows on to the main,
And sees its tossing foam wreaths and goes back whence
he sped;
Thus Diomedes turned back and to the people said: 595
“Q friends, why do we wonder that thus now Hektor
divine
Does as a mighty spearman and daring warrior shine!
A god is by him ever to ward off death and ban;
Ares is now beside him and seems a mortal man.
Yet, facing aye the Trojans, back from the conflict
Z0, 600
Nor seek to combat strongly with a godhead for a foe.”
He spoke thus; and the Trojans close to their* orders
bare.
And Hektor slew two heroes who knew the works of war,
Anchialos and Menesthes who in one chariot rode.
Great Telamonian Ajax, who saw them, pity
showed; 605

*The Greeks.’
112 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He neared and, standing, sent forth his javelin glorious,
And struck the chieftain Amphios, the son of Selagos,
Who dwelt in Paisos’ city, in goods rich and in grain;
Fate led him to aid Priam and his sons, but Jed in vain.
But Telamonian Ajax struck on the baldrick sheer, 610
And in the lowest stomach fixed his long-shadowed spear;
He fell with crash resounding. Illustrious Ayax ran

To take away his armour, but all the Trojan van

Flung javelins sharp and shining; against his shield they

flew.
With heel pressed on the body he his brazen spear with-
drew, 615

But could not from the shoulders the other fair arms tear,
For he was driven backward by the missiles dying there.
He feared the valiant Trojans, to strong defense impelled
Who, many and strong, pressed on him, and many a
javelin held,
And him, though great and mighty and high-born, there
repelled; 620
And he retired before them, driven backward by their
might.—
Thus either side bore labour throughout the powerful
fight.
Tlepolemos Heraklides, a hero brave and great,
Was ’gainst Sarpedon godlike pushed on by raging fate.
And when they were approaching upon each other
thus, 625
The son and eke the grandson of cloud-collecting Zeus,
Tlepolemos, the first one, to the other chieftain said:
“Sarpedon, Lykian counsellor, what dire compulsion
led
You here to tremble, being a man unskilled in war?
And false ones say of aegis-bearing Zeus’s race you
are;— 630
Yet, measured by those heroes, you are inferior far
To those whom Zeus engendered among the men of eld.
And in what other fashion th’ Heraclean might* is held:
My father daring-minded, his heart a lion’s own!
He came here on account of the steeds of Laomedon; 635

*Hercules himself.
BOOK -V- 113

He came with six ships only and.with a smaller train,,
And wasted Ilion’s city and reft her.streets amain.
Your mind is base, your,people are wasted bythe sword.
I think that to the Trojans you will not help afford,
Though you from.Lykia, journeyed. (e’en.if.a mighty
foe), 640
But that you, by me, conquered. to-Hades’ gates, will igo.”
The Lykian chief, Sarpedon,,replied to-him-anan:
“Tlepolemos, this, hero razed.sacred Ilion
By the rashness of,the hero, high-born, Laomedon,
Who him, who wrought full fairly, reproved. with. evil
blame, 645
And gave him not the horses for which-from far he came.
I tell you now that death and-black fate will.meet you
here,
From my hand rushing on you, o’ermastered by my spear;
Giving me fame, your.spirit.to Hades charger-famed.”’
Thus spoke, to him. Sarpedon; Tlepolemos then
aimed 650
His ashen spear; together, the long,spears. flung forsook
Their hands, but great Sarpedon}s, his.foeman’s midsneck
struck;
The javelin harsh. passed through. it, -his-eyes,a dense
night veiled..
Tlepolemos’ long javelin had his* left thigh. assailed,
The point rushed. on with fury, and: grazed: :the bone
beneath; 655
But Zeus, his sire, assisted: and: warded,off the death.
Then his divine companions godlike Sarpeden bore
Away. from fight and .warring;.the long spear :griaved
him sore,
For it trailed along behind him, and:no one thought or
tried
To draw the ashen javelin from his thigh, that he might
ride; 660
For all around was hurry, and labour filled their hands.
On the othes. side, Tlepolemos. the well-greaved -Achaian
bands .
Bore, from the fight and warring; divine Odysseus. knew,

*Sarpedon’s.
114 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And his soul was stirred within him, and his dear heart
wrathful grew;
And in his mind and spirit he thought if best were
done 665
By following first the steps of wide-thundering Zeus’s son,
Or let full many a Lykian the gates of death behold.
As by no means ’t was fated to Odysseus mighty-souled
High Zeus’s son all-valiant with the sharp brass to slay,
Athena turned his mind to the Lykian array. 670
Then Koiranos he slaughtered, Alastor, Chromios,
Alkandros and Noemon, Prytanis and Halios;
And yet divine Odysseus had many a Lykian slain,
If great helm-glancing Hektor had not perceived amain.
He passed on through the vanguard, all armed in shining
brass, 675
And bore the Danaans terror;to Zeus’ son Sarpedon ’t was
A joy to see him rushing; in mournful tones he spake:
“* Priamides, allow not the Danaans to make
A prey of this, my body, but guard me from that doom;
Let me die within your city, since I shall not go home 680
To my dear native country, from which my feet -have
gone,
My cherished wife to gladden and my yet infant son.”
Thus he; helm-glancing Hektor to him no word ad-
dressed,
But rushed on by him swiftly, and fervour filled his
breast
To rout the Argives quickly and death to many to
bring. 685
But his divine companions Sarpedon, godlike king,
Laid ’neath a beauteous beech tree of aegis-bearing Zeus,
And from his thigh th’ ash javelin strong Pelagon tore
loose;
Who was a dear companion, and joined by sympathies;
But thought and sense departed, and mist obscured his
eyes; 690
Yet he again awakened, the breath of Boreas bore
Reviving animation, though still he panted sore.
The Argives, though yet Ares and brass-helmed
Hektor pressed,
BOOK V 115

Ne’er to their sable vessels turned back in flight con-

fessed,
Nor bore they on to battle, but ever turned their
course 695
Back, since they learned that Ares was with the Trojan
force.

Who was the first of warriors, who latest, on that field,
Whom Hektor, son of Priam, and brazen Ares killed?
First slew they godlike Teuthras, Orestes driving horse,
Th’ Aitolian spearman, Trechos, and Oinomaos’

force, 700
Oinopides and Helenos, Oresbios with fair belt,
Intent on hoarding treasure, and who in Hyla dwelt,
Near by the lake Kephissus; and there, close by his hand,
Dwelt more of the Boeotians and held a fertile land.
The goddess, white-armed Hera, when she perceived

aright 705
That thus the Argives perished amid the powerful
fight,

Full quickly to Athena with wingéd words spoke thus:
“Ye gods, Unwearied, daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus,

In truth, to Menelaos we made a promise vain—

To ruin well-walled Ilion and thence return again— 710

If still we suffer Ares, destructive, thus to rage.

But come, let us consider and powerful help engage.”

Thus she; the fierce-eyed goddess, Pallas, did not

debate,

But Hera, reverenced goddess, daughter of Kronos great,

Approaching near them, harnessed her steeds adorned
with gold; 71

And Hebé to the chariot the curved wheels quickly rolled,

Eight-spoked and brazen, placing on the iron axle-tree.

Of these the felloe is golden and wears imperishably,

Above, the tire is brazen—a miracle to see!

The circling naves of silver on both sides were put on, 720

The seat by gold and silver strappings and thongs was
drawn;

The rim was a double circle; a silver pole this took,

And at its end extremest she bound the golden yoke,

And joined the golden strap-work;{but Hera to her car
116 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Led forth her steeds swift-footed; she sought for strife

and war. 725
On the other hand, Athena, child of aegis-bearing
ove,

ag on the varied garment her hands had wrought
and wove,

Over her father’s pavement; then o’er her breast she bare

Cloud-gathering Zeus’s breastplate, and armed for tear-
ful war.

She then about her shoulders the tasseled aegis cast, 730

Frightful, and all around it Fear, like a garland, passed;

Thereon was Force and Discord, Pursuit who chills with
dread;

There was the sign terrific of Gorgon’s monstrous head,

A monster dire with horror, aegis-bearing Zeus’s sign.

She placed the helm four-crested upon her head
divine; 735

All golden, and around it was wrought a ridge of gold,

Enough for all the guards who a hundred cities hold.

Into the blazing chariot she ascended with her feet;

And laid hold on her javelin, heavy and strong and great,

By which the battle orders of heroic men are torn 740

’Gainst whom in wrath she rages, of potent father born.

The steeds, by Hera guided, fast ’neath the scourge were
driven;

And, by their own volition, opened the gates of Heaven,

Held by the Hours; Olympus and great heaven in their

guard
Were placed, and the dense vapours they closed up or
unbarred. 745

Through these they drove the horses, urged onward. by
their goads,

And found Kronion sitting, apart from the other gods,

On many-peaked Olympus at its extremest hight.

There white-armed Hera, goddess, reined in the. horses
dight;

Then Zeus Kronion, the highest, she spoke to and
besought: 750

_ “ Zeus Sire, are you not wroth at these bold deeds Mars

has wrought,
BOOK V 117

Such ¢hieftains and so many of th’ Achaians he has slain
Rashly and not as seems him? Yet this to me is pain;
And silver-bowed Apollo and Venus calmly joy;
They loosed this frantic godhead who bounds not his
annoy. 755
Zeus Father, will your anger against,me rage if I
Drive Ares from the battle, wound" all grievously ?”’
Then cloud-collecting Zeus said,\as he replied to her:
“Come now, incite upon him Athena Plunderer,
And most is she accustomed to smite with torments
‘grim.” 760
Thus he; and white-armed Hera, the goddess, heeded
him;
She drove the steeds by scourging, they, not unwilling,
‘flew
Betwixt the earth and heaven beset with starry blue.
As far as in the grayness one with his eyes may mark,
Upon a high crag sitting, viewing the sea wine-dark, 765
So far the steeds high-echoing of the gods leapt on amain.
But when they came to Ilion and the flowing rivers
twain,
Where Simois and Skamander meet with their currents
bright,
There white-armed Hera, goddess, restrained her cours-
ers’ flight,
And loosed them from the chariot and poured around
dense night;
For them'to graze on Simois ambrosial herbage sent. 770
They: two, ‘like timid ring'doves in gait and seeming,
went
To the warriors of the Atgives, desiring to bear aid.
But when they reached the place where the most and
bravest stayed,
The force of Diomedes, horse-tamer; who enrolled,
Like raw-devouring lions or wild boats, who are told, 775
For strength, not with the feeble; she shouted where she
stood—
The goddess, white-armed Hera—and with such voice
endued
As Stentor mighty-hearted, with brazen voice endowed,
118 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who shouts with such a clamour, as fifty in a crowd.
“Shame, Argives! Ill reproaches! For form alone
admired! 780
So long as all the warring divine Achilles fired,
The Trojans never ventured beyond the Dardan gates;
They feared his valid javelin and feared him as the fates;
But now, far from the city, by the hollow ships they war.”
Thus saying, she to each warrior fresh strength and
courage bare; 785
Fierce-eyed Athena, goddess, Tydides sought from far;
This king she found beside his swift coursers and his car;
But he the wound was cooling which Pandar’s arrow
dealt.
The flowing sweat afflicted beneath the wide-spread belt
Which bore his well-orbed buckler; this wore him, and
his hand 790
Was tired; the blood all sable he wiped and raised the
band.
The goddess came and, touching his coursers’ yoke, she
said:
“You do not much resemble the son whom Tydeus
bred.
Tydeus was small in body, but was a warrior stout.
And when I did not suffer to war or rage about, 795
When he came from th’ Achaians to Thebes ambassador,
Amid full many Kadmeians; I gave him orders there
To feast within their mansions and think of war no more;
But he had that high spirit which aye he had before,
And called the youths Kadmeian to games, and won
in all. 800
[With ease, for so I helped him through all the carnival.]
Thus do I stand beside you and guard you with my hands,
And order you to combat with zeal the Trojan bands.
Yet now your members falter, by many toils oppressed
Or fear makes you disheartened; you seem, too, for the
rest, 805
No more the son of Tydeus, th’ Onides brave in war.”
To her strong Diomedes these words in answer bare:
“T know you, goddess, daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus,
So I will speak full freely and all my thoughts unloose,
BOOK V 119

No fear holds me faint-hearted, nor any sloth delayed, 810
But I respect the mandates which your injunction laid.
The other happy godheads you bade me not to fight,
But if I met with Venus, daughter of Zeus’s might,
When - went forth to battle, to wound with the sharp
rass.
And I obey your orders and ever rearward pass, 815
And order all the Argives to gather here their bands,
For I see well that Ares the battle flood commands.”
At this fierce-eyed Athena, the goddess, then rejoined:
“* Tydides Diomedes, most cherished in my mind,
Fear now in naught this Ares nor any immortal foe, 820
For I so great a succour upon your hand bestow. .
But come now, first ’gainst Ares the whole-hoofed horses
hold,
And wound him in close combat, nor fear his rage untold.
This pest of monstrous nature, inconstant as the wave,
Who to myself and Hera but now his promise gave 825
To fight against the Trojans and bear the Argives aid,
Now mixes with the Trojans and forgets his pledge be-
trayed.”
Thus saying, she from the chariot great Sthenelos drew
to earth,
With strong hand drawing backward; and quickly he
leapt forth.
She mounted then the chariot by Diomedes great, 830
The fiercely eager goddess; and loudly ’neath the weight
The beechen axle sounded, for it bore a goddess dire
And hero brave; Athena seized reins and scourge of fire;
And she the whole-hoofed horses at once on Ares held,
Who Periphas gigantic, th’ Aitolians’ best had felled, 835
The famed son of Ochesios. Him gore-stained Ares
slew.
She put on Hades’ helmet that strong Mars might not
view.
When man-destroying Ares divine Tydides knew,
He Periphas gigantic abandoned where he lay,
Leaving where first he slew him and took his life away,840
And straight ’gainst Diomedes, horse-tamer mighty,
charged.
120 THE ILTAD OF HOMER

And when they came'together, upon’ each otlier urged,
Ares: extended ‘forward his brass:spéar in’ the strife,
Above:the yoke-and guide-reins, to’ take away his life;
Fierce-eyed' Athena, goddess, this with ‘her hand: so
took, 845
Pushing it from the chariot, that it all vainly struck.
Next war-strong’ Diomedes:his' brazen: javelin: tried ;—
Pallas ‘Athena drove it into Mars’' lowest ‘side,
Where was'the baldrick girded; it struck and wounded

here,
‘Through all the fair skin tearimg; and he drew out his
spear. ' 850

But brazen ‘Ares’ shouted ‘as warring heroes shout,
Nine thousand or ‘a’ myriad, who strive in Ares’ rout.
A panic seized th’ Achaians and all the Trojans there,
Fearing; so shéuted ‘Ares, insatiable of war.
As from ‘the clouds of heaven a gloomy vapour
“goes, 855
Whetr bythe heat excited, an'evil'tempest blows;
To Tydides' Diontedes thus brazen ‘Ares showed,
When, to the clouds ascending, he scaled the heavens

‘Broad.

He soon reached high Olympus where dwell the gods
apart,

And sat by Zeus Kronion, afflicted in his heart, 860

And showed the blood‘ immortal’ which from his wound
was ‘pressed,

And, heavily lamenting, with: wingéd words addressed:

“Zeus Sire, are you not angry, seeing these lawless

deeds?

Since aye we gods bear th’ anguish our mutual discord
ibreeds,

While showing men our favour; you set us all to fight, 865

Yor you begot a daughter, rash and! of baleful might;

And ever is she ready to further works of ill.

But all the other godHeads who‘ high Olympus fill,

Submit to all your mandates‘and ‘each'and all obey;

Yet you do' ot! oppose‘her in word’or any way, 870

But loose; since-you engetidered this: maid ‘malign and
dread.
‘BOOK V 121

And now the son of Tydeus, the haughty Diomed,
Against th’ immortal gédheads in frenzied rage she
pressed.
And first he wounded Venus in the hand close by the
WIIst;
Then me myself he rushed on, and like a god’s his air; 875
But my swift feet’ preserved me, or I had suffered there
Pains due'to long oppression ’mid-the dire heaps of slain
Or, living, been exhausted by blows of brass amain.”
But, gazing on him grimly, cloud-gathering Zeus replied:
‘Complain not, sitting’ by me, inconstant as the tide; 880
I hate you most of godheads who hold Olympus here
For aye to you is discord'and wars and fights most dear.
You have your mother’s nature, unbridled, harsh and
rude,
Hera’s which is not lightly by me with words subdued.
I think these wounds you suffer from her incitement
‘throng, 885
But will not let this anguish wring you with torture long;
For you were born: my offspring, to'me your mother bare.
If from another godhead your birth destructive were,
Long ere'this'were you lying below the Titans bound.”
Thus he; and ordered Paion to heal the hurt pro-
found. 890
And Paion, placing on ‘it soft lotions, healed the sore,
For naught of mortal'nature his* deathless essence bore.
As when by juice of fig-tree white milk in curds is fixed,
Though fluid before, but quickly coagulates when
-mixed;
Thus rapidly rash Ares cured'of his hurt anon; 895
And Hebé washed him freshly and graceful clothes put on
And he sat by Zeus Kronion by glory’s rays adorned.—
‘But Guatdian Athena’and Argive Hera turned
Back quickly to great’Zeus’s mansions extended ' wide,
When they had stayed the slaughter of Ares homicide. goo

* Ares,
122 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

BOOK VI.

 

THE COLLOQUY OF HEKTOR AND ANDROMACHE,

The battle of the Trojans and Argives now was lorn,*
And here and there the conflict about the plain was borne,
To either side were driven the brass-tipped javelins’

blows,
Between the streams of Xanthos and those where Simois
flows.
First ‘Telamonian Ajax, th’ Achaians’ fence in fight, 5
Broke through the Trojan phalanx and showed his com-
rades light,

Striking the bravest hero amid the Thrakian state,

The son of Eussoros, Akamas strong and great;

He struck where the dense horse-hair above the helm’s
cone lies;

The brass point in the forehead fixed with full ener-
gies, Io

And pierced the bone within it; and darkness veiled his
eyes.

Bier. eee Axylos, the son of Teuthras killed;
Who fields by fair Arisba, the well-built city, tilled,

In wealth rich, and the friendship of all the folk had
gained,

For he had a wayside mansion and all men entertained. 15

Yet no one thus befriended him from sad doom withdrew

By standing there before him; but both Tydides slew,

Himself and his attendant Kalesios who drove forth,

As charioteer, his horses; both entered in the earth.

Euryalos slew Dresos and eke Opheltios there, 20
And then pursued Aisepos and Pedasos whom bare
The naiad Abarbarea to great Boukolion.

Boukolion was the son of high-born Laomedon,

And was by birth the eldest; by stealth his mother bred;
While heft his sheep attended he mixed in love and bed, 25
And she, becoming pregnant, saw twin sons at her knees;

*Abandoned by the gods. tBoukolion.
BOOK VI 123

Their strength and splendid members Mekisteiades*
Loosed and from off their shoulders the arms they wore
despoiled.

But war-strong Polypoites valiant Astyalos killed;

Odysseus the Perkosian, Pidytes, with brass spear 30

Slew, and divine Aretaon was killed by Teucer here.
Antilochos Ableros slew with his shining spear,

Nestorides; but Elatos, Agamemnon, king of men;

Of Pedasos, high city, he was a denizen,

By Satniois fair-flowing. Leitos slew Phylakos 35

As he fled on; Melanthios was killed by Eurypylos.
Then valiant Menelaos Adrastos living took;

For both his frightened horses in flight the field forsook;

By a tamarisk’s branch impeded, the curving car they

broke
Where the pole joins on the chariot, and to the city
sped, 40

Where others struck by terror had for protection fled;
Himself, flung from the chariot, beside the wheel was
rolled
Prone in the dust, and falling upon his mouth; but bold
Atrides Menelaos stood close beside him here,
And, brandishing in menace, held his long-shadowed
spear. 45
Adrastos supplicated, clasping his knees in prayer:
“ Take me alive, Atrides, a worthy price I bear.
My wealthy father’s mansions full many possessions hold
Of brass and laboured iron as well as sparkling gold;
My father will reward you and boundless wealth be-
stow, 50
If he shall hear that scathless to th’ Achaian ships I go.”
Thus he; and Menelaos’ mind in his breast gave heed.
He thought to bid his servant to th’ Achaians’ swift ships
lead,
But Agamemnon ran there, shouting reproaches grave:
“« Soft-hearted Menelaos, why would you such men

save? 55
In sooth, kind deeds the Trojans wrought for you in our
lands,

*Euryalos.
124 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

For which let none escape from high ruin at our hands;
Nor let him ’scape destruction the mother bears unborn,
Let all of Ilion perish unburied and forlorn.”

Thus saying, the chief his brother turned by his rep-

rimand, 60
To rightful deeds persuading; he* pushed back with his
hand

The hero, great Adrastos; King Agamemnon struck
Him in the flank and cast him supine; Atrides} took,
With heel pressed on his bosom, from him the ashen spear.
And Nestor ‘fired the’ Argives and shouted loud and
clear: 65
“O friends, ye Danaan heroes, servants of Ares’ sway,
Let no one seeking booty turn backward or delay,
That he with greater treasure back to the ships may fly;
Yet let us slay the warriors, and then all quietly
You shall spoil the lifeless bodies which lie upon the
plain.” 7o
Thus saying, the strength and spirit of each he roused
amain.
And, driven by the Achaians Mars-loved, they} then had
gone,
By their own baseriess conquered, to sacred Ilion,

Had not Helenos, son of Priam, of augurs far the best,
Standing beside Aineas and Hektor, them addressed: 75
** 7ineas arid you, Hektor, for most the labours rest

On you of all the Trojans and Lykians, being best

To guide the people onward if war or counsel waits,

Stand here and hold the people in arms before the gates,

Hasting in all directions, before they, flying fall 80

Into their wives’ embraces to joy their foes withal.

But when you have exhorted all the phalanxes to stand,

We will baitle with the Danaans and stay here to your
hand,

E’en though we are much wasted; for stress and/fate
incline.

You Hektor, seek the city, speak to your mother and
‘mine; 85

Let her collect the matrons in fierce-eyed Atheria’s shrine,

*Menelaos. +Agamemnon. {The Trojans.
BOOK VI 125

In the citadel located, and open with her key
The holy temple’s portals; and what seems to her,to be
The greatest robe and fairest which in the palace lies,
And. loved by her as dearest, let her place it on the
knees go
Of beauteous-haired Athena; and promise sacrifice
Of heifers twelve, ungoaded. and yearlings, at her shrine,
If she spare the Trojans’ children and wives and town
divine,
And keep from sacred Ilion the son of Tydeus’ might,
The wildly raging warrior and powerful lord of flight; 95
And I say that he is bravest of all th’ Achaian.train.
And ne’er had we such fear of Achilles, lord of men,
Men say, born of a goddess; yet this man is full grim,
Nor is there any able to match in strength with him.”
Thus he; in all things Hektor his brother’s counsel
kept. 100
At once out of his chariot enmailed to earth he leapt;,
His pointed javelins brandished and throughthearmy sped,
And roused them to the battle and woke a combat dread;
And they were turned from flying and ’gainst th’ Achai-
ans stood.
But th’ Argives all retreated and ceased their work of
blood, 105
And thought that some immortal from the starry heaven
amain,

Had come to help the Trojans, so turned they back again.
But Hektor. to the Trojans, called.out with mighty .cries:
“Ye fiery-minded Trojans and far-renowned allies,
My friends, once more be:heroes, think of impetuous

force, IIO
Since now to sacred Ilion I bear again my course
To tell the aged counsellors and our consorts when I-come,
To supplicate the godheads and vow a hecatomb.”
Thus saying, helm-glancing Hektor turned from the
battle wide;
And.on,his neck and ankles struck the border of. black
hide, 115
Which round the edge extremest of, his bossy buckler
run,—
126 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But Tydeus’ son and Glaukos, Hippolochos’s son
Came on between both armies, desiring both to fight.
And when they were together, going to each other quite,
War-strenuous Diomedes his foeman first addressed: 120

“Who are you, mighty chieftain, of mortal men the

best?
For ne’er ere this I saw you in fame-conferring fight;
Yet now you come before all, confiding in your might,
When you advance and wait for my great long-
shadowed spear.
The sons of hapless fathers oppose my vigour here. 125
But if, one of th’ immortals from heaven, you come
below,
None of the gods celestial do I engage as foe.
And brave Lycurgus, son of old Dryas, lived not long,
Who with the gods celestial strove in contention strong.
He once pursued the nurses of raving Bacchus’ train, 130
And drove through sacred Nyssa; and all on earth amain
Flung down the holy thyrsi; and Lycurgus homicide
Beat them with ox-goad; Bacchus, frightened, beneath

the tide

Of ocean plunged, and Thetis received him in her
breast;

For mighty was the terror the hero’s threats im-
pressed. 135

But afterwards the godheads, who live in ease, were
wroth;

The son of Kronos* blinded, and death soon came with
scath,

Since he from all th’ immortals a weight of hatred bare.

Thus, by no means, desire I with the happy gods to war.

But if you are of mortals who eat the fruits of earth, 140

Come hither, that the sooner you to death’s bounds go
forth.”

But him the famous son of Hippolochos answer bore:

“Tydides mighty-minded, my lineage why explore?

As the races of the leaves are, so are the tribes of men;

The leaves the wind drives earthward; the wood brings
forth again 145

*Zeus.
BOOK VI 127

Others by germination when the hours of spring release;
And thus men’s generations are born, and thus they cease.
Yet if these things you wish for; that you may know full
well
My name and generation which many men can tell:—
Ephyra is a city in a sequestered glen 150
Of Argos grazing-horses; the cunningest of men,
Aiolian Sisyphos dwelt there, and Glaukos was his son.
But Glaukos great engendered blameless Bellerophon.
And him the gods gave beauty, and winning manhood
joined;
But Proitos meditated ill counsels in his mind; 155
And drove him from the city, since he* was far the best
Of th’ Argives; for his + scepter Zeus raised o’er all the
rest.
With him the wife of Proitos, divine Anteia, sought
To mix in secret loving, but could persuade in naught
Bellerophon wise-minded who bore no evil thought. 160
And she, accusing falsely, to Proitos thus begun:
““ May you be dead, O Proitos, or slay Bellerophon,
Who wished to mix in loving with me against my will.”
Thus she; and rage the monarch seized when he heard
such ill.
But he avoided slaying, for awe restrained his ire; 165
He sent him forth to Lykia with signs of purport dire,
Writing in folded tablets much which his death foresaw,
And bade, that he might perish, to show his father-in-law.
But he went forth to Lykia, by the godheads guided there;
And when he came to Lykia and Xanthos flowing fair, 170
The monarch of broad Lykia honours with care devised.
And nine days entertained him, and nine steers sacrificed,
But when, upon the tenth day, rose-fingered Eos came,
He asked him and besought him the message to proclaim,
Which he had brought from Proitos who was his son-in-
law. 175
But when the evil message from his son-in-law he saw,
He bade his guest Chimaira invincible to slay,
Who was of heavenly lineage and not of human clay;

*Proitos.  {Proitos’s.
128 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Her front part was.a lion’s, her rear, a serpent dire,
And terribly she breathed forth the strength of sparkling

fire; 180
But her he slew, confiding in the godheads’ signs pro-
found.

And next he came in battle ’gainst the Solymi renowned;
And this he called the fiercest of combats which men view;
And third, the man-opposing, fierce Amazons he-slew.

When he returned, another deft plot the monarch

laid, 185
And, choosing from wide Lykia, placed men in am-
buscade,
The best of all and bravest; they knew their homes no
more;

For Bellerophon all-blameless slew all in combat sore.
But now the king was ware of his high birth from a god;
He kept him in his country and his daughter dear be-
stowed; 190
And gave him half the honour his royal state expressed;
And for him the Lykians measured a field, above the rest,
Fair for the vine and harvest, that he might till.and own.
And she bore then three children to brave Bellerophon,
Hippolochos, Isandros and Laodamia fair. 195
And Zeus, all-wise, had converse with Laodamia there,
And she brought forth Sarpedon, godlike and brazen-
helmed.
But when he* by the hatred of all the gods was whelmed,
And wandered all-deserted in the Aleian plain,
Wasting his soul and shunning the wonted paths, of
men, 200
His son, Isandros, fighting the Solymi famed afar,.
Was slain by rushing Ares, insatiable of war.
Her Artemis in anger, the gold-reined, gave to earth.
Hippolochos begot. me, from him I boast my birth;
He sent me onto Ilion and many commands im-
pressed: 205
Ever to bear me bravely and,shine above the rest,
And.ne’er my fathers’ lineage in robes.of shame to hide,
Who of Ephyra were bravest and eke of Lykia wide.

*Bellerophon.
BOOK VI 129

Such is the race I boast of and such the blood I bear.”
Thus he; and then was gladdened Diomedes, sirong

in war; 210
He fixed his mighty spear in the earth’s all-nurturing
breast,
And with fair words the pastor of the people thus ad-
dressed:

“In sooth, I now esteem you my old paternal guest.
For godlike Oineus erstwhile blameless Bellerophon
Received within his mansions till twenty days were

gone; 215
And they gave to each other, in friendship, presents fair.
And Oineus gave a baldrick, shining with purple rare;
Bellerophon gave Oineus a double cup of gold,
Which I left in departing, but in my mansions hold,
Nor Tydeus I remember, since I was young that tide. 220
When ’neath the walls of Thebai th’ Achaian people died.
But I your host all-cherished in Argos’ midst will be.
And you be mine in Lykia, whene’er that state I see.
Let us turn from each other our spears in this affray;
For me are many Trojans and famed allies to slay, 225
Whom me a god has given, o’ertaken by my feet.
For you are many Achaians to kill, whom you may meet.
Exchange we, then, our armour, that these around us see
That we two friends paternal profess ourselves ~o be.”
Thus saying, from their horses they both leapt to the
sand, 230
And plighted faith while grasping each other by the hand.
Zeus Kronides from Glaukos so much his judgment reft,
That Diomed Tydides his arms in gift he left,
And gold for brass, a hundred beeves’ worth for nine

gave he.—
When Hektor reached the Skaian gates and the beechen
tree, 235

Round himthe wives and daughters of all the Trojans run,
Asking for friend or husband, for brother or for son.
But he bade all in order beseech the gods with prayers,
For over many a woman impended grievous cares.
Yet when he came to Priam’s great palace wondrous
fair, 240
130 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

All wrought with polished porches; (and covered in it
there

Were fifty spacious chambers, all worked in polished
stones,

Built near by one another; and there the many sons

Of Priam lay when slumbering their lawful wives beside.

But on the side opposing, yet in the passage wide, 245

Twelve roofed rooms for his daughters, of stone without
a. flaw,

Polished, were built together; and there Priam’s sons-
in-law

Lay, when they tasted slumber, beside their consorts
chaste);

There his fond mother met him as she was going in haste

To Laodiké, her daughter,: who was in form the best; 250:

But she clung to his hand and the word said and ad-
dressed:

“My son, why come you hither, leaving the savage

war ?

In truth, the ill-named.sons of th’ Achaians press and mar.

Fighting around the city; your mind-has urged you here,

From the city’s loftiest watch-tower to Zeus your hands
to rear. 255

But stay, that I may bring you the honey-dulcet wine,

To pour.to Zeus,.the Father, and.the other gods divine,

Then you yourself may taste it, if you would: drink at
length,

For wine to wearied warrior augments amain the strength;

Thus are you worn, defending your friends and: kinsmen

bred.” 260
Then great helm-glancing Hektor to her in. answer
said:
“Do not, my honoured mother, cheering wine before
me set,
Lest it loosen all my members, and. I strength and force
forget.

And with my hands polluted I fear dark. wine to pour
To Zeus in a libation;—defiled with filth and gore, 265
To Kronion, dark-clouds-gathering, ’t is not for me to

pray.
BOOK VI 131

But to Athena’s temple, the Plunderer’s, take your way
With sacrifice, assembling the matrons of the state;
And the garment in the palace which you deem most fair

and great,
And the one you prize as dearest, that place upon the
knees 270°

Of beauteous-haired Athena, and promise sacrifice

Of heifers twelve, ungoaded and yearlings, at her shrine,

If she spare the Trojans’ infants and wives and town
divine,

And keep from sacred Ilion the son of Tydeus’ might,

The wildly raging warrior and powerful lord of flight.275

But go you to the temple of Athena Plunderer

And I will go to Paris that I with him confer,

If he will hear me speaking. O would that there the
earth

Might yawn for him? Th’ Olympian nurtured him
from his birth

A great woe to the Trojans and to the sons who come280

From you and Priam great-hearted. If I to Hades’

home
Saw him descend, ’t would free me of a sad grief in my
mind.”
Thus he; she sought the palace and there her maids
enjoined;

And they went through the city, calling the matrons old.

Herself went to her chamber, by fragrant scents in-
rolled; 285

There were the varied garments Sidonian women wrought

Which godlike Alexander himself from Sidon brought

What time the ample ocean he sailed that voyage forlorn

In which he bore off Helen, of noble father born.

And Hekuba took a garment, in gift t’? Athena bere, 290

(The fairest in its colours, the greatest in the store;

And like a star it sparkled and lay the last of all),

And went, and many matrons went with her from the hall.

But when they reached Athena’s shrine in the lofty

tower

Fair-cheeked Theano, daughter of Kisseus, oped the
door; 295
132 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

She was Antenor’s consort (he savage coursers tamed),

And her the Trojans priestess of Athena’s shrine had
named.

And all with ululations their hands t’ Athena bore.

Fair-cheeked Theano, taking the garment, placed it o’er

The knees of great Athena, the goddess with fair hair; 300

And, making vows, the daughter of great Zeus asked in

rayer:

“* Goddess divine, Athena, revered, who guard the town,
The spear of Diomed shiver and let himself fall prone
Before the Skaian portals, that we may sacrifice
At once twelve yearling heifers, on whom no yoke’s mark

lies, 305
Here in your sacred temple, if you in pity spare
The city and the Trojans’ consorts and infants there.”

Thus they; Athena Pallas denied their prayers profuse;
Yet thus they supplicated the daughter of great Zeus.
But Hektor the fair palace of Alexander sought, 310
Which, by the aid of workmen, full cunningly he wrought;
Of fertile Troja’s craftsmen they were the best of all,
And made for him a chamber, a dwelling and a hall,
Near those of Priam and Hektor, in the acropolis.

Then he, loved by Kronion, great Hektor, entered
this, 315

His spear, eleven cubits, in his strong hand he bore;

The brass point of the javelin sent sparkling flames before,

And all around the javelin a golden circle fared.

He found Paris in his chamber who beauteous arms

prepared,
His buckler and his breastplate, and fixed his curved'bow
great; 320

And Argive Helen by him amid her women sate,

And to the maids around her famed work distributed.

But Hektor, seeing, reproached him and words oppro-
brious said:

“Unhappy one, this anger your mind holds not aright.
The folk die round the city and lofty wall in fight; 325
For you the war and battle around the city burn,

And you would blame another if you beheld him turn
Away from hated warring. But rouse for combat dire
BOOK VI 133

Lest soon the city perish, consumed by hostile fire.”

But godlike Alexander to him in turn replied: 330
“ Hektor you chide as fated, nor passing fate you chide;
For this I will address you, do you attend again;
Not raging ’gainst the Trojans with ire and anger vain,
Do I sit in my chamber; I wished to soothe my pain.
My wife seeks with soft speeches to urge me on to war, 335
And to myself this portion seems to be better far.
And victory sweeps onward with ever-changing star.
But come now, wait my coming, I will Ares’ arms endue;
Go on, and I will follow and trust to come to you.”

Thus he; helm-glancing Hektor to him no answer

made. 340
But Helen with soft speeches to him her thoughts con-
veyed:

“ Brother to me, who wrought you evil and horror sore,

Would that, that very morning, when first my mother
bore,

An evil breath of tempest had borne me angrily

To a mountain or the waves of the many-sounding
sea, 345

And the wave had swept me onward before these deeds
occurred.

But since (as they have happened) the gods these ills
preferred,

Would I might be the consort of a man of braver name,

Who might feel men’s indignation and fear full many a
shame.

His mind is never constant nor will in future be; 350

I think that he will harvest his folly fittingly.

But enter now, my brother, and sit upon this seat,

Since stress of care and labour has filled your mind replete,

Which you bear for me, shameless, and Alexander’s guilt;

For whom both Zeus Kronion an evil fortune built, 355

That we might be the theme of the songs of coming men.”

Then great helm-glancing Hektor to her replied again:

““ Give me no seat, kind Helen, not so may you persuade,

Since all my mind incites me to lend the Trojans aid,

Who while myself am absent the greatest longing
bear. 360
134 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But urge you him to battle and let him hasten there;

Thus may he overtake me while in the town I be.

For I go to my palace, that in my home I see

My servants and dear consort and the infant son she bore,

For I know not if, to greet them, I reach my home once
more, , 365

Or if the gods immortal by th’ Achaians’ hands may slay.”

And, thus bespeaking, Hektor, helm-glancing, went

away.

And quickly then he came to his own well-peopled domes,

But did not find Andromaché, white-armed, within the

rooms.
Yet she with child and servant, who wore a garment
fair, 370

Was standing in a turret, weeping and wailing there.
But Hektor, since he found not his blameless wife within,
Proceeded to the threshold and asked the maidens seen:
“T pray you, maidens, tell me and speak the truth anon,
Where has white-armed Andromaché out of the palace
gone? 375
Has she sought her husband’s sisters or his brothers’ wives
robed fair,

Or sought Athena’s temple with the Trojan matrons,

where
They supplicate the goddess dire and with beauteous
hair?”
To him th’ assiduous matron in turn these words ad-
dressed:
“Hektor, since much you bid me to speak truth mani-
fest; 380

She went not to your sisters, nor your brothers’ wives
robed fair,

Nor to Athena’s temple with the Trojan matrons, where

They supplicate the goddess dire and with beauteous hair.

But went forth to the walls and to Ilion’s mighty tower,

For she heard the Trojans wasted, and waxed th’ Acha-
ians’ power, 385

Thus to the wall she hastened, going in fury wild,

Like to a frenzied woman; the nurse-maid took the

child.”
BOOK VI 135

‘Fhus spoke th’ assiduous matron; but Hektor in.a

daze

Rushed, back the road he came from, along the well-
built ways:

He reached the. Skaian portals, threading the city great3go

(The road he was to pass o’er to the plain was through
ithe gate);

There his consort, rich in dower, toward him swiftly run,

Andromaché, the daughter of great-souled Eetion;

Eetion, who dwelt in fair-wooded: Plakos’ glen,

Thebé and Hypoplakia, ruling Kilikian men. 395

His daughter wedded Hektor, in brazen armour tried.

And she came now to meet him, the nurse-girl by her side,

Who there the tender infant upon her bosom bare,

Hektorides well-cherished, like an all-beauteous star;

Him Hektor called Skamandrios, but the others called
alone 400

Astyanax*, for Hektor alone fenced Ilion.

But he looked on the infant and smiled and silence kept;

And Andromaché besidehim was standing, while she wept.

She seized his hand supporting and spoke the word and

said:
“Unhappy one, your valour will lay you with the
dead; 405
Will you not show compassion to your hapless wife and
son,
Who all too soon will lose you, for th’ Achaians will slay
anon,

Rushing in throngs upon you; far better ’t were for me

‘To sink in earth, without you; for no solace else will be,

When you draw death upon you-—naught but my pains
and stress.— 410

And I no reverenced mother nor father dear possess.

For erstwhile was my father by divine Achilles slain,

And the full Kilikian city he leveled with the plain,

Thebé with lofty portals, and slew Eetion,

Yet did not spoil, but reverenced in mind when life was
gone; 415

*Astyanax, from astu and anax, means king or guard-

ian of the city.
130 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And burned him, showing honour, with all his arms well-
wrought, t

And mide a tomb above him; and round it elm trees
brought

The mountain nymphs, the daughters of aegis-bearing
Jove.

Besides, I had seven brothers who im the palace throve,

But in one day they all to the house of Hades went;’ 420

For all divine Achilles, swift-footed, to him sent

’*Mid their trailing-footed oxen and ’mid their snowy
sheep.

My mother, who ruled over fair Plakos’ woody steep,

He led a captive hither with possessions manifold,

But loosed and sent her homeward and took unmeas-
ured gold; 425

Yet in my father’s palace shaft-joying Dian slew.

Hektor, I see my father and honoured mother in you,

And brother, for you are husband, blooming in youthful

power.

But come now, have compassion and stay within the
tower,

Lest you make your child an orphan and me a widow
withal.— 430

But place by the wild fig-tree the people most of all,
Where most the town is fenceless, and weakest is the wall.
For thrice that point assailing the best of all were found
The force of both Ajaces and Idomeneus renowned;
And there were both the Atridae and Tydeus’ powerful
son.
Whether a heavenly message to them may be well known,
Or if their mind commands them, and valour urges on.”
But great helm-glancing Hektor to her in turn replied:
‘* My care shall all this cover, dear wife, but in my pride
Much should I fear the Trojans and their wives, who
trailed robes wear, 440
If basely I avoided and kept apart from war;
Nor does my soul command me, for I was ever brave,
And with the foremost Trojans fought where the battle
drave,
Viewing my father’s glory, regardful of my own.
BOOK VI 137

But to my mind and spirit well is this sentence known: 445

Days come when sacred Ilion will find destruction drear,

And Priam and the folk of Priam, good with the ashen
spear.

But not the Trojan’s sorrows such anguish to me bring,

Not Hekuba’s, my mother’s, nor those of Priam, the king,

Nor yet those of my brothers, who are both many and
good, 450

When they in dust fall prostrate by hostile men subdued,

As yours when some grim warrior of th’ Achaians brazen-
dressed

Leads you away all-weeping, of freedom dispossessed.

But when you are in Argos and another’s web weave
there,

And water from Messeis* or Hyperia* bear, 455

Though very much unwilling, yet urged by fate and fears,

While some one there may comment, seeing you shedding
tears:

‘This is the wife of Hektor, who fought the best of all

The charger-taming Trojans when they fought round
Ilion’s wall.’

Thus might he speak; but on you a new grief it would
lay, 460

The lack of such a husband to ward off slavery’s day.

But may the earth heaped on me conceal me still and
dead,

Ere I listen to your wailing or see you captive led.”

Thus saying, illustrious Hektor his arms to the boy

spread wide,

But the boy clung to the bosom of the well-zoned nurse
and cried; 465

He feared his dear sire’s aspect, the brass and horse-
haired crest,

Seeing it nodding grimly from the helm’s peak manifest.

But dear sire and honoured mother laughed at his child-
ish dread.

Illustrious Hektor quickly the helm took from his head,

And, radiant and all-shining, he placed it on the
sands, 470

*Springs in Argos.
138 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Then his.dear son he kissed and fondled with his hands.

To Zeus and the other godheads he prayed and thus
spoke he:

“ Zeus and the other godheads, grant that my son may

be

As I among the Trojans, and high renown obtain,

And be in might as powerful, and Ilion strongly reign; 475

That all say, ‘He’s far better than was his sire of yore,’

When he returns from warring and bears spoils stained

with gore
Ta’en from some hostile warrior to joy his mother’s
breast.”
Thus saying, his tencer infant in his consort’s hands he
pressed;
Witn tears she laughed and took him upon her fragrant
breast. 480

Her husband knew and pitied, and her fair hand he took
And, taking it, he fondled, and said the word and spoke:
“Loved wife, let not the sorrow in your mind become

too great;
For none can send to Hades unless it is my fate.
I say there is no refuge from death for any one, 485
Though he be brave or coward, whose life has once
begun.

But go you to the palace and of your work take care,

Be it the web or distaff, and tell your maidens there

To do their work as fitting; but men by wars are worn,

Affecting all, me chiefly, of those in Ilion born.” —_4g0

Thus saying, illustrious Hektor his horsehaired helmet

took.

His consort, going homeward, oft cast a backward look,

Abundant tear-drops pouring. But when the house well-
made

Of Hektor man-destroying she reached, full many a maid

She found within its chambers, and to wailing urged

them all; 495
And they made wail for Hektor (who lived yet) in his
hall;

For they thought that he would never again return from
fight,
BOOK VI 139

And journey back, escaping th’ Achaians’ hands and
might.
And Paris in lofty mansions no lengthy time delayed,
But dressed in famous armour which varied brass dis-
played, 500
And hastened to the city; with rapid footsteps sped.
As when a stabled courser, on barley highly fed,
And wont to bathe in river fair flowing to the main,
When he has burst his halter, runs thundering o’er the
plain,
Rejoicing in his glory, and holds his head in air; 505
And round his mighty shoulders streams bright his
splendid hair,
And, in the way of horses, his members lightly bear
Him to the mares’ wont pastures; thus Paris, Priam’s
son,
Left Pergamos’ high watch-tower, in arms which brightly
shone
Like to the sun, exulting; his feet all-rapid bore; 510
He found his brother, Hektor divine, and just before
He from the spot departed where he his wife had seen.
And first of all addressed him Paris, of godlike mien:
“Good brother, though I hastened, too long was I
delayed;
I did not come in season and as your orders bade.” 515
To him helm-glancing Hektor in answer thus replied:
“ Strange man, no man would blame you, if justly he
decide,
In all your work of battle, since you have strenuous might,
But you remit your ardour and do not wish for fight.
My heart is grieved within me when I must hear the
shame 520
Heaped on you by the Trojans, who toil so for your name.
But go we; and in future let thought to this be given:
If Zeus shall ever grant us, to the deathless gods of heaven,
To place a cup of freedom in our halls and mansions
grand,
When we from Troy have driven the well-greaved
Achaian band.” 525
140 ILIAD OF HOMER

BOOK VII.

THE SINGLE COMBAT OF HERTOR AND AJAX. THE
BURIAL OF THE DEAD.

Thus saying, illustrious Hektor rushed onward from

the gate;

With him his brother Paris; in the minds of both was
great

Desire for war and battle. As a god a breeze bestows

On the expectant sailor, who on the ocean goes,

When he is worn by labour at the well-polished oar; 5

Thus came they to the Trojans who expectation bore.

Then Paris slew the son of King Areithoos,

Menesthios, dweller in Arné; club-armed Areithoos

And great-eyed Philomedusa to light and life brought
forth.

But Hektor struck Eioneus with his sharp spear to
earth, 10

On the neck beneath the helmet of brass; his limbs loosed
then.

Hippolochos’ son Glaukos, the chief of Lykian men,

Struck the shoulder of Iphinoos with spear in the strong
war,

Dexiades, who leapt on his rapid steeds and car.

And loosened were his members; to earth from car he

fell. 15
But when the fierce-eyed goddess, Athena, knew this
well:

That th’ Argives met destruction amid the powerful fight,
She rushed to sacred Ilion down from Olympus’ hight.
Apollo sped to meet her; from Pergamos he spied,
And wished the victory given to those of Ilion’s side; 20
And they two met each other beside the beech-tree lonc.
And first addressed the goddess Apollo, Zeus’s son:

““ Why come again so hotly, O daughter of great Zeus,
From the summits of Olympus, some great thought urges

thus ?
BOOK VII 141

Would you, then, give the Danaans the doubtful
victory ? 25
Since you feel no compassion for the Trojan men who die.
Yet if to me you listen, and it were better far,
We for this day may hinder hostility and war.
But they again shall battle till they find the end of Troy,
Since you goddesses are ardent the city to destroy.” 30
Andhim the fierce-eyed goddess, Athena, then addressed:
“Thus be it, Hekaergos; these thoughts were in my
I pa breast,
IT came from Olympus to th’ Achaian and Trojan
. train.
Come, how would you the battle of heroes fierce restrain ?”
To her in turn then answered Apollo, Zeus’s son: 35
“The powerful strength of Hektor, horse-tamer, urge
we on,
So he some Danaan champion call forth to single fight
To strive in heavy combat with might opposing might;
And if this meet th’ approval of th’ Achaians’ brass-clad

line,
They will incite some warrior to war with Hektor di-
vine.” 40

Thus he; fierce-eyed Athena, the goddess, him obeyed.
Helenos, son of Priam, felt to his mind conveyed
The counsel which the godheads, in counseling, had pre-
ferred.
He went and stood by Hektor and spoke to him the word:
“©O Hektor, son of Priam, Jove’s peer in counsel
true, 45
Will you in aught obey me? For I am brother to you.
Have all th’ Achaians seated and all the Trojans, too;
Call forth th’ Achaian warrior who is the best in might,
That he meet you in combat, in dire destructive fight;
Since not te you ’t is fated to die and meet your fate. 50
For thus I heard the voice of the deathless gods debate.”
Thushe; and Hektorgreatly joyedat the words he heard,
And, going ’mid the Trojans, their phalanxes deterred,
Holding his spear i’ the middle; and 2’. were seated soon,
And the well-greaved Achaians Agamemnon made sit
down, 55
142 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And silver-bowed Apollo and Pallas sat down, too,
And like the flying vultures their semblance to the view,
Perched on a lofty beech-tree of aegis-bearing Jove,
Delighted with the warriors in densest orders wove,
With shields and spears and helmets bristling all-
angrily. 60
And as the breath of Zephyr is poured upon the sea,
When moving freshly risen, and the sea turns black below;
Thus were th’ Achaians and Trojans when they were
seated so
Upon the plain; but Hektor said to the armies twain:
“ Hear me, ye Trojan heroes and well-greaved Achaian
train, 65
That I may speak the mandates my mind on me has laid.--
Since Kronides high-seated annulled the treaty made,
And showed to either party signs boding fierce annoy,
Till you should lay in ruin the well-towered city Troy,
Or you yourselves be slaughtered near the ships which
cross the main. 70
With you are all the bravest of all th’ Achaian train.
Whose eager soul commands him ’gainst me in fight to
shine,
Let him from all come hither to war with Hektor divine.
This is the thing I offer, let Zeus be witness here;—
And if this warrior slay me with his long-pointed spear, 75
Let him despoil my arms and to the hollow ships retire,
But send my body homeward, that in the funeral pyre
The Trojans and their consorts partake when I am dead.
If I slay him, and Phcebus grant me the fame I prayed,
I will despoil his armour and bear to Troy divine, 80
And hang before far-darting Apollo’s sacred shrine;
But will send back his body where the well-banked vessels
lie,
That the long-haired Achaians perform his obsequy ;—
And by broad Hellespontos they may a tomb adorn,
So some one say in future, of later races born, 85
In many-banked vessel sailing upon the wine-dark main:
“ This tomb is for a warrior who long ago was slain,
And, bearing him as bravest, illustrious Hektor slew.’
Thus will he speak; my glory will e’er thus shine anew.”
BOOK VII 143

Thus he; and all th’ Achaians full mutely silence
kept; go
Ashamed to shun the challenge, they did not dare accept.
At length, then, Menelaos rose and his thoughts defined,
And cast on them reproaches and greatly groaned in mind:
“Oh me! Achaian women, boasters, Achaians:no more!
These things will be dishonour most grievous and. most
sore,
Unless one of the Danaans ’gainst Hektor now go forth.—
But may you be transmuted to water and to-earth,
Each sitting there faint-hearted, ingloriously repelled; —
But I will arm to meet him, for victory’s bounds ate held
By the immortal godheads who rule o’er ill and
harms.” 100

Thus having said,,he put on at once his beauteous arms,
Then, truly, Menelaos, the last of life you bare,

In the hands of mighty Hektor, for he was better far,

Had not th’ Achaian leaders you from such risk re-
strained;

And Atrides Agamemnon himself, who widely reigned, 105

Your dexter ‘hand laid hold of and spoke the word and
said:

“* Zeus-nurtured Menelaos, you rave in frenzy dread;
You should not feel this fury, restrain, though grief ensue,
Nor seek thus to contend with a better man than you,
With Hektor, son of Priam, whom the others fear

aright; 110
E’en Achilles fears to meet him in fame-conferring fight,
Who is a stalwart warrior, better than you by far.
But go you and be seated where your companions are;
Th’ Achaians another champion will ’gainst this chief
incite,
F’en though he be intrepid and insatiable of fight. 115
I say that he will gladly his knees from toiling, bend,
If so the hostile warring and baleful strife he end.”
Thus saying to him, the hero his brother’s passions
swayed,
Speaking to him as fitting; and he in all obeyed;
And then the glad attendants th’ arms from his shoulders
took. 120
144 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But Nestor ‘mid the Argives rose up and thus bespoke:
“Ye gods! a mighty sorrow comes to th’ Achaian

shore,

And much the horse-borne ancient, old Peleus will
deplore,

The Myrmidons’ good counsellor and eke their orator,

Who once, when he had asked me, joyed greatly at his
hearth, 125

Asking the race and offspring of all of Argive birth._—

If now he heard all trembled before great Hektor’s gaze,

Full often to th’ immortals his own hands would he raise,

That, from his members parted, his soul might Hades
view.

Would that, Zeus Sire, Athena and King Apollo, too, 130

I yet were young as erstwhile when, to swift Keladon
brought,

Th’ Arkadians »spear-wielding, and gathered P Pyliansfought

Beneath the walls of Pheia and close to Jgrdan’s flood.

With them stood Ereuthalion, the first, and like a god.

King Areithoos’ armour he on his shoulders wore, 135

Divine King Areithoos, who the name club-bearer bore.

And women brightly girdled and heroes called him so,

For not with lengthy javelin he fought, nor yet with bow;

But with a club of iron he broke the phalanx dight.

By wile Lycurgus killed him, but slew him not by
might, 140

In a narrow pass; destruction his iron mace did not veer,

For first Lycurgus pierced him through the middle with
his spear;

And he supine fell earthward; Lycurgus took the arms

Which brazen Ares gave him to wear in Mars’ alarms.

But afterwards Lycurgus in his high halls grew old, 145

And gave to Ereuthalion, his servant dear, to hold;

Who then possessed the armour and challenged all the
rest;

And much they feared and trembled nor dared to meet
his quest.

But my bold mind impelled me with confidence to war,

Though, measured by our ages, I was the youngest
there; 150
BOOK VII 145

And I met him in combat, and Athena glory gave.
For I destroyed this warrior most powerful and all-brave;
And his huge bulk extended o’er many an ample bourne.
Would that I were thus youthful and with my strength
unworn!
But, you who are the bravest of all th’ Achaian band, 155
Desire not with all promptness to go ’gainst Hektor’s
hand.”
Thus chided them the ancient; and nine in all rose
then; i
And rose by far the foremost Agamemnon, king of men;
And mighty Diomedes Tydides rose next him,
And next the two Ajaces, endued with valour grim. 160
Idomeneus came after and, Idomeneus beside,
His charioteer, Meriones, peer of Mars homicide;
Eurypylos came after, Euaimon’s famous son,
Then came divine Odysseus and Thoas, Andraimon’s
son,
And all desired to combat with godlike Hektor then. 165
But Gerenian Nestor, horseman, addressed them all:
again:
“ Let now the lots decide all, and who the lot obtain,
That chief will truly succour the well-greaved Achaian
train;
And his own soul will gladden, if safely he may fly
Away from hostile warring and dire hostility.” 170
Thus he; and every hero marked well the lot he bore,
And cast it in the helmet which Agamemnon wore.
And the people supplicated and their hands held to each '
‘od,
And thie they spoke while gazing upon the heaven broad:
“ Zeus Sire, be Ajax chosen, or be Tydides told, 175
Or e’en himself, the monarch of Mukenai* rich in gold.”
Thus prayed they; and the horseman, Gerenian
Nestor, shook,
And leapt forth from the helmet the lot which all bespoke,
Of Ajax; and the herald bore it through all the rest,
Going from the right, and showed it to all th’ Achaians’
best, 180

*Agamemnon.
146 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

They did not recognize it, and every one denied;

But when the herald reached him (bearing through the
army wide),

Famed Ajax, who wrote on it and in the helmet threw,

Stretched forth his hand; the herald stood near and let

him view;
And, seeing, he knew the marking, and joy his mind
o’erspread. 185

And by his foot he cast it to earth, and thus he said:
“O friends, my soul is gladdened; the fated lot is

mine;

I think that I shall conquer the force of Hektor divine.

But come, that I my armour of war put on for use,

While you are supplicating the King, Kronion Zeus, 190

While silence is among you that the Trojans may not
hear;

Or boldly, since among them are none we hold in fear.

For none by force shall conquer, if I unwilling be,

Nor yet by skill in warring; since not so ill for me,

Thope, the birth and nurture which Salamis con-

veyed.” 195
Thus he; to Zeus Kronion, the King, th’ Achaians
prayed,
And on the wide heaven gazing, each one of them
spoke thus:

“ Zeus Sire, from Ida ruling, most great, most glorious,
Give victory to Ajax, high glory let him bear,
But if you cherish Hektor and hold him in your care, 200
Let, then, like force and glory to either champion pass.”
Thus, then, they spoke; but Ajax armed him in splen-
did brass.
But when about his body all his bright arms repose,
He rushes swiftly forward; thus monstrous Ares goes,
Who goes to war ’mid heroes whom great Kronion de-

signed 205
To fight in strength of battle whose rage consumes the:
mind.
So, then rushed monstrous Ajax, th’ Achaians’ battle-
ment,

With frightful visage smiling; with feet beneath he went
BOOK VII 147

With lengthy strides and brandished his great long-
shadowed spear.
And th’ Argives gladdened greatly, looking on their

compeer; 210
But the members of the Trojans were seized by tremors
drear.

The very soul of Hektor was shaken in his breast,

But he could not now draw backward, e’en if by fear
distressed,

Amid the crowd of people, since he provoked his power.

But Ajax came anear him with buckler like a tower, 215

Brazen, of seven ox-hides, made by Tychios, who ex-
celled

All men who wrought in leather, and who in Hyla
' dwelled.

He made the varied buckler for him from bull-hides
seven,

From fattest bulls; and o’er it an eighth, of brass, was
driven.

This Telamonian Ajax before his breast displayed, 220

And, standing close to Hektor, his thoughts in threats
conveyed:

“Hektor, by single combat, you now shall clearly see
Of what sort are the chieftains who ’mid the Danaans be,
Besides Achilles, breaker of ranks, of lion mind.

Yet he in curve-bowed vessels of ocean is confined, 225

Enraged at Agamemnon, the people’s pastor true;

But we are of such nature that we come here ’gainst you,

And we are many in number; yet begin the war and
fight.”

In ite then spoke great Hektor, in glancing helmet

dight:
= ‘fan the Telamonian, prince of the folk, Zeus-born,230
Not as a boy in weakness o’erwhelm me with your scorn,
Nor as a woman knowing naught of the works of war.
Since I am skilled in combats and slaughterings which
men mar.
I know well my dry buckler to turn to left or right,
I have in me the temper to war with tireless might; 235
148 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

I know the battle rushing of the rapid steeds and cars,

I know in standing conflict to bear a joy to Mars.

I do not wish to strike you by stealth, since you are such,

Gazing on you in secret, but openly to touch.”

Thus he and, fiercely shaking, his spear long-shad-

owed flung, 240

And on the shield of Ajax, dire and sevenfold, it rung,

Upon the brass extremest, which was the eighth and last,

And, cutting through six layers, the brass unwearied
passed,

But fixed in the seventh ox-hide. But next, on its career

Ajax Zeus-born sent forward his own long-shadowed
spear, 245

And struck Priamides’ buckler, all-equal in its field.

The mighty javelin rushed on clear through the shining
shield,

And fastened in the corselet with many a dedal sheer;

And cut on through the tunic and by the flank the spear.

But he bent and evaded the death the black fates
planned; 250

Then both drew their long javelins and fought there
hand to hand,

Like raw-devouring lions or strong wild boars afield.

Priamides his spear struck upon the middle shield,

But did not break the metal; yet bent the spear-point

true.
Then Ajax rushed upon him and pierced his buckler
through, 255

The spear rushed forward through it and turned him
as he strode,

And reached his neck and cut it; the spurting black
blood flowed.

Not thus helm-glancing Hektor the heavy fight forsook,

But, retrograding slightly, in his hand powerful took

A rock, black, great and jagged, which lay there on the
plain, 260

And cast on Ajax’ buckler, dire and sevenfold, amain,

Upon the middle bosses; the brass rang to the shock.

Ajax in turn, the second, raised a far greater rock,

And drove it whirling onward, with mighty impulse cast,
BOOK VII 149

He broke the shield in, flinging the rock, like millstone

vast. 265
Hektor’s dear knees were injured (and, stretched supine,
he gazed)

By striking ’gainst his buckler; at once Apollo raised.
Now had they with their falchions fought hand to hand
again,
Had not the heralds neared them, messengers of Zeus
and men;
And one was for the Trojans; one, for th’ Achaians
brass-dressed, 270
Talthybios and Idaios; and prudence both possessed.
Between the two their scepters the sacred heralds held;
The herald Idaios addressed them; in prudence he ex-
celled:
“No more, dear sons, wage battle, no longer combat
thus;
For both of you are cherished by cloud-compelling
Zeus. 275
You both are potent warriors; we all know that aright.
But night has come upon us; ’tis well to list to night.”
But Telamonian Ajax to him in answer said:
“Idaios, order Hektor to tell the speech you made;
For he called forth to battle, provoking all the best. 280
Let him begin, but gladly will I obey his quest.”
And great helm-glancing Hektor to him replied in
course:
“« Ajax, some god has given to you both bulk and force
And prudence; of th’ Achaians, you best the javelin sway,
Let us now cease our battle and hostility to-day. 285
But we again shall combat until a god decide,
And give the prize of battle to one or the other side.
But night has come upon us; ’tis well to list to night.
Thus you, beside the vessels, th’ Achaians may delight,
And most your friends and comrades who are present
with you there. 290
But I to the great city of Priam, the King, will bear
Rejoicing to the Trojans and their wives, who trailed
robes wear,
Who, for me supplicating, enter the holy shrine.—
150 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Come, give we to each other, to both, a gift divine,
That each of the Achaians and of the Trojans say: 295
“They fought in that contention of soul-devouring sway,
And yet were joined in friendship before they went away.’”
As thus he spoke he gave him a silver-studded sword,
And bore to him with scabbard and baldrick deftly
scored.
But Ajax gave a baldrick, shining with purple blent, 300
And both were there disparted; one to th’ Achaians went,
The other to the Trojans; and they rejoiced anon,
When they heheld him* living and scathless coming on,
(Fleeing the strength of Ajax and his hands invincible),
And led him to the city (against hope) safe and well.— 305
But the well-greaved Achaians to Agamemnon brought,
On the other hand, great Ajax, proud of the victory
fought. /
But when they to the tents of Atrides came again,
For them an ox devoted Agamemnon, king of men,
(A male and of five seasons), to Zeus of potent might. 310
They flayed it and prepared it and cut up all aright,
And skilfully divided and pierced with spits withal,
And roasted it with prudence and from the fire drew all.
Then they prepared the banquet and ate when labour

ceased,
And naught the soul found wanting after the equal
feast. 315

Wide-ruling Agamemnon, Atrides, man divine,
Granted great Ajax honour by giving the whole chine.
_But when they felt the impulse for meat and drinking pall,
Nestor, the ancient, counseled, beginning first of all;
Whose counsel e’er before this appeared the best dis-
played; 320
And he, their weal desiring, addressed them all and said:
“ Atrides and ye chieftains of all th’ Achaian host,
For many of the Achaians, long-haired, by death are lost,
Whose black blood now fierce Ares by fair Skamander

shed,
And their souls went down to Hades. Thus, be at dawn
delayed 325

* Hektor.
BOOK VII 151

The war of the Achaians, and let us bear the dead,
When we have come together, in chariots hither drawn
By mules and heavy oxen, and burn the dead anon
Not distant from the vessels, that each the bones bear

forth,
Going homeward, to his children when we reach our
fathers’ earth. : 330

Then let us pile one barrow of earth ta’en from the field,
A tomb the pyre encircling ; and near it quickly build
Towers lofty, for the vessels and for ourselves a.guard;
And make within them portals well-made and fitly barred,
That through the spacious entrance a way for horse
appear, 335
And let us dig outside them a trench profound, but near,
And that, drawn in a circle will guard the men and horse,
So the proud Trojans’ warring ne’er whelm us with its
force.”

Thus he; and all the chieftains approved the counsel

well.—
But the meeting of the Trojans was in Ilion’s citadel. 340
*Twas turbulent and fearful; by Priam’s doors they sate.
*Mid them Antenor prudent began his views to state:

“ Listen to me, ye Trojans and, Dardans and allies,
That I may tell the counsels my mind to me supplies.
Come, let us Argive Helen and all the wealth return 345
In gift to the Atridae, since now with oaths forsworn
We meet them in the battle; in naught shall we succeed.
[I think that naught will help us unless we thus proceed.]

He sat down after speaking. Then rose up unde-

terred.
Divine King Alexander,beauteous-haired Helen’slord; 350
Who, then, to him responding, his wingéd words ad-
dressed:
** Antenor, you no longer speak words which please
my breast;
Better, advice than this is you know well how to frame. |
But if, in sooth, this counsel from you in earnest came,
Then, certainly the godheads have blighted all your
sense, 355
To the charger-taming Trojans I speak my preference
152 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And here I tell you plainly, I’ll not the dame restore;
But all the varied treasures I home from Argos bore,
All that will I give freely and add from mine yet more.”
He sat down after speaking. And rose amid them
here 360
Dardanides, King Priam, to gods in council peer;
And he, their weal desiring, harangued them and ad-
dressed:
“ Hear me, ye Trojans, Dardans, allies and all the rest,
That I may speak what bids me the mind within my
breast.
Take now throughout the city,as heretofore, your food,365
Be mindful of the watches, be all of wakeful mood.
At early morn Idaios to the hollow ships will go
To say to Agamemnon and Menelaos, too,
The words of Alexander, from whom contention rose;
And make this fair proposal—whether they wish to
close 370
Ill-echoing war a season, till we can burn the dead;
Then we again will combat until a godhead dread
Disparts us from each other and gives one victory.”
Thus he; they heard and heeded, obeying willingly.
[But, then, throughout the army they ate in orders
drawn]; 375
And to the hollow vessels Idaios went at dawn.
And found the gathered Danaans, of Ares’ fellowship,
In council by the stern of King Agamemnon’s ship;
And there the clear-voiced herald stood ’mid them and
addressed:
“ Atridae and all others of all th’ Achaian best, 380
Priam, the King, commands me, all the high-born Tro:
jans, too,
To tell, if it be pleasing and agreeable to you,
The words of Alexander, by whom the strife was made.
The treasures Alexander in hollow ships conveyed
To Troy (and would that, ere it, he met destruction
sore), 385
_ All these he will restore you and add yet others more;
The lawful-wedded consort of Menelaos glorious,
He will not give, albeit the Trojans counsel thus.
BOOK VII 153

Besides, they bade me ask you whether you wish in turn,
To cease the war ill-echoing till we the corpses burn. 390
Then we again may combat until a god divide,
And gives the doubtful victory to one or the other side.”
Thus he; but all full mutely were wrapped in silence
there,
Until, at length, addressed them Diomedes strong in war:
“ Let no one now the treasures of Alexander‘own, 395
Nor even Argive Helen; e’en to a child ’t were known
That now upon the Trojans destruction’s limits crowd.”
Thus he; and all the sons of the Achaians shouted loud,
Who thus approved the words of Diomed, who horses
broke.

Then to Idaios, the herald, King Agamemnon spoke: 400
“Tdatos, the opinion of th’ Achaians now you hear.
Thus they themselves have answered; and I to them

adhere.
But, as concerns the corpses, to burn is not denied,
Nor is there any rancour against the dead who died,
And, since they perished, quickly be they: the fire’s

award. 405
But let Zeus know the treaty, Hera’s loud-sounding
lord.”’.

Thus spoke he and his scepter to all the gods upheld;
And back to sacred Ilion Idaios was impelled.
The Trojans sat in council, and the Dardanian train,
And all assembled, waiting till Idaios came again. 410
He came and told the message, while in their midst he
stood,

And quickly they made ready, one part to bring the wood,

The rest the dead to gather; and th’ Argives quickly
came

From the well-banked ships to gather the dead and wood
for flame.

The sun, then, struck the cornfields with his fresh rays

anew, 415
As from calm-flowing ocean profound to heaven he drew;
And they met one another. "Twas hard each corpse to
know,
But they washed off the foulness of blood in water’s flow,
154 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Pouring, hot tears upon them, and on the chariots laid.

Great Priam allowed no wailing; in silence they con-
veyed, 420

Though in their still hearts grieving, the bodies to the

Te, .

And ae to sacred Ilion when they had burned with fire.

Thus, likewise, did th’ Achaians, well-greaved, perform
their part,

And placed on pyres the corpses, though they were
grieved at heart;

And went to the hollow vessels when they had burned

the dead. 425
And when not yet ’t was morning, but twilight still was
spread,

Then a band of the Achaians around the pyre went forth

And made a single barrow (with soil borne from the earth

Of the plain) and undivided; by it they built a wall

And lofty towers, a bulwark for the ships and for them
all. 430

And in them they made portals adapted cunningly,

That through the spacious entrance a way for horse
might be;

On th’ outside, but close to it, a trench profound they
made,

Both large and wide, and in it full many a stake arrayed.

And the long-haired Achaians toiled in their labour
thus.— 435

But the gods above were seated beside high-thundering

Zeus,

And admired the mighty labour of the Achaians’ brazen-
dressed;

Posidon, the earth-shaker, his words to them addressed:

“ Zeus Sire, is there any mortal upon the boundless

earth,

Who in his mind and counsels to th’ immortals will call
forth? 440

Do you see how the Achaians, long-haired, have made a

4 wall

Just now before their vessels and drawn a trench round
all,
BOOK VII 155

Nor to the gods have given a famous hecatomb?
This work will shine in glory while dawn affrights the
gloom.
That one will be forgotten by me and Phoebus done, 445
Toiling to build the city for hero Laomedon.”
To him said Zeus cloud-gathering, evincing anger
dread:
“Ye gods, Earth-Shaker mighty, what were the words
you said?
Another of the godheads this thought might touch with
fright,
Another god, far weaker than you in hands and might. 450
Yet shall your glory reach out as far as spreads the morn.
But come now, when th’ Achaians, long-haired, are home-
ward borne
Back in their hollow vessels to their dear fatherland,
Cast down the wall in ruin, with sea whelm all the strand,
And all the mighty sea-shore cover with barren sand. 455
And thus the mighty bulwark of th’ Achaians shall be
effaced.”
And thus with one another their conversation passed
But when the sun was darkened, and th’ Achaians’ war! ye
was done;
’Mid the tents they slaughtered oxen and their evening
meal begun.
And many ships from Lemnos stood by, which dark wine
bore, 460
Which Jasonides Euneos had sent to them before,
Whom Hypsipylé bore to Jason, pastor of peoples he.—
Of wine, a thousand measures, Jasonides gave free
Menelaos and Agamemnon, and set the store apart.
Thence the long-haired Achaians the wine bought in the
mart; 465
And some gave brass in barter, some iron, shining brave,
Some gave the hides of oxen, the oxen’s selves some gave,
And others gave their captives; and they set the banquet
bright.
Then the oneal Achaians feasted the livelong night;
And the Trojans in the city and alleys kept feast at
will. 470
156 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But all night Zeus, the counsellor, plotted against them
ill,

Showing his wrath in thunder; pale fear seized with the
sign;

And from their beakers earthward they poured out
sparkling wine,

Nor drank ere to Kronion they poured libations deep.

‘They then lay down for slumber and took the gift of

sleep. 475

BOOK VIII.

THE INTERRUPTED BATTLE.

The morn with saffron garments spread o’er all earth’s

abodes,

And Zeus, in thunder joying, to council called the gods

To many-peaked Olympus, upon the highest crest.

The gods all Jistened to him, and he himself addressed:

“Hear me now, all ye godheads and goddesses as

well,

That what my mind within me commands me I may tell.

Thus, let not any goddess nor any godhead try

To render vain my order, but all with it comply,

That quickly I accomplish the works which I designed.

Though from the gods he wander, that godhead will I
find, 10

Who goes to aid the Trojans or else the Danaan race;

And he shall seek Olympus, driven by lashes base,

Or I will seize and cast him forth into Tartaros dim,

Far hence, where ’neath the earth is a chasm deep and

rim.

The bites there are of iron, the brazen threshold lies 15

As far below dark Hades as earth beneath the skies.

Then will he know how greatly I pass all gods in power.

But come, ye gods and try me, that all may know my
dower;
BOOK VIII 157

And, from the hights of heaven, hang down a chain of
gold,

And then let every goddess and all the gods lay hold. 20

But you will ne’er from heaven drag down upon the
plain

Great Zeus, the highest counsellor, though much you toil
in vain.

But when, in my desiring, I will to drag you forth,

I draw you with the ocean and with the very earth;

Tfthen around Olympus’ hightopI bindthechain, 25

All you and these are hanging amid the air inane.

Thus I surpass the godheads, thus am I raised o’er men.”
Thus he; and all in silence became observant then,
While at his speech they wondered, for he spoke with

threatening strength.
But next the fierce-eyed goddess, Athena, spoke at
length: 30
**O Kronides, my father, who every king excel,
We know well that your strength is o’er all invincible;
Yet we the warlike Danaans !ament with sorrow great,
Who are destroyed, fulfilling the doom of evil fate.
Yet we will keep from warring, if you command us so, 35
But give the Argives counsel, if it an aid bestow,
That not the whole may perish while you are angered
thus.”
But, smiling on her fairly, said then cloud-gathering
Zeus:
** Be strong, for not in anger, Tritonia, cherished child,
I spoke to you, well-wishing, but would with you be

mild.” 40
Thus speaking, to his chariot his coursers twain he
bare,

Flying and brazen-footed, with manes of golden hair,
And clad in gold his body, and seized the scourge of gold,
Well-wrought, and quickly mounted his car as forth it

rolled.
He scourged the steeds to drive them; they, not unwilling,
flew 45

Between the earth and heaven beset with starry blue.
He came to fount-rich Ida, mother of monsters wild,
158 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To Gargaros, where his field was, and altar undefiled;
The sire of men and godheads then stayed his coursers

there,
And loosed them from the car and poured round much
dusky air. 50

He then sat on the summits, by glory’s pride impelled,
And all the Trojan city and Achaian ships beheld.
But the long-haired Achaians meanwhile were taking
food
Hastily in their quarters, then put on armour good.
On the other hand, the Trojans in the city \ armour
dight,
And, though they were the fewer, yet they dened to
fight
For their wives and for their children, since dire com-
pulsion urged.
And all the gates were opened and forth the people
surged,
The footmen and the horsemen; and many a war cry met.
But when they came together shield ox-hide shield

beset, 60
And lances clashed with lances, and brass-clad warriors
met;

And bossy bucklers crashed on the bucklers of the foes,
And high above the tumult a mighty clamour rose.

The wail and cry of triumph announced the varied mood
Of men who slew or perished; the earth flowed foul with

blood. 65
While yet the morn was passing, and grew the sacred
day,

So long the missiles wounded, and men fell in the fray.
But when the sun ascending to middle heaven rolled,
Then Father Zeus Kronion raised up the scales of gold;
Two fates of long-extending death in the scales he

pressed 70
For the charger-taming Trojans and Achaians brazen-
dressed;

He raised it by the middle, and th’ Achaians’ day of fate
Sank down. [Th’ Achaians’ fortune on earth all-feeding
sate,
BOOK VIII 159

But the fortune of the Trojans rose up to heaven vast.]

He thundered loud from Ida and flaming lightnings
cast 75

Among th’ Achaian people; amazed they saw it fall;

And fear, diffusing pallor, laid heavy hands on all.

Then not King Agamemnon nor Idomeneus dared stay,

Nor yet the two Ajaces, servants of Ares’ sway.

Alone Gerenian Nestor, th’ Achaians’ fence, kept
ground 80°

Unwillingly; one courser was disabled by a wound,

Which godlike Alexander struck with an arrow fair

(The lord of Argive Helen, possessing beauteous hair)

Upon the highest forehead where first the forelocks grow

Out of the skull; most fitting the spot for fatal blow. 85

He reared, stung by the anguish (the shaft had pierced
the brain),

And scared the other horses and rolled o’er brass* and
rein,

And while the old man cut off the lashings with his sword,

The flying steeds of Hektor bore through the crowd their
lord

And charioteer, bold Hektor. There had hef lost his
life, go

If Diomed had not known well (that hero good in strife).

And he urged on wr gyecens. with voice which fear in-

stilled:

“ Laertiades Zeus-risen, Odysseus many-skilled,

Why do you fly, thus turning your back like coward
sheer?

Beware, lest some one fasten in your fleeing back a
spear.

Yet stay, that the wild warrior we drive from th’ old man
here.”

Thus he; divine Odysseus, much-enduring, heard him

not,

But, rushing by, the hollow ships of th’ Achaians sought.

Yet, though alone, Tydides amid the foremost bare,

And stood before the ancient’s, the son of Neleus’
car; 100

*The brass bit. Nestor.
160 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And, after he addressed him, his winged words were

borne:
“Old man, your strength most truly the warriors

young have worn;

Your force for you is loosened, and heavy age impedes,

Your servant is enfeebled, and sluggish are your steeds.

Yet come, ascend my chariot that you may ascertain 105

What are these Trojan coursers, experienced in the plain,

Full rapid in pursuing or flight, now there, now here;—

Which I took from Atneas, twin masters they of fear.

And let your servants care for your own; with mine we go

’Gainst the charger-taming Trojans, that Hektor’s self
may know 110

Whether my spear in madness is in my hands displayed.”

Thus he; Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, him obeyed.
But then the steeds of Nestor to their servants strong they
ave—

To Sthenelos attendant and Eurymedon all-brave.

And both of them ascended the car of Diomed, 115

And with his hands old Nestor took the reins which
splendour shed,

And drove with whip the horses; and soon was Hektor
near.

And, rushing on him fiercely, Tydides flung his spear,

But missed him with his javelin; th’ attendant charioteer

Eniopeus, the son of Thebaios of great mind, 120
Holding the reins, he wounded where pap and breast
combined;.

He tumbled from the chariot; and back with wild affright

Sprang the fleet-footed chargers; and loosed were soul
and might.

Though Hektor’s mind dire sorrow for his charioteer re-
ceived,

He suffered him to lie there and for his comrade
grieved; 125

A bold charioteer he sought for. Not long the steeds
lacked thus.

A guide; he found Iphitides, bold Archeptolemos,

Who the swift-footed horses and car by his command

As charioteer ascended and took the reins in hand.
BOOK VIII 161

And now, in truth, destruction and monstrous deeds
were blent; 130
The Trojans had beendriven and like lambs in Ilion pent,
If not all well the father of men and gods had known,—
But dreadfully he thundered and flung white lightning
prone;
Earthward before the horses of Diomed it came,
And dire the glancing flashes rose from the sulphurous
flame; 135
And both the coursers trembled and crouched beneath the
wain,
And from the hands of Nestor slipped forth the shining
rein,
And in his mind he trembled and Diomedes hight:
“ Come now, O son of Tydeus, turn the whole-hoofed
steeds to flight
Do not you see that Zeus gives no victory o’er the foes ? 140
On him to-day the glory Zeus Kronides bestows;
But later, if he wishes, will grant the boon to us,
And man in naught may hinder nor guide the thought
of Zeus,
E’en if supremely powerful; for Zeus is mightier far.”
But then to him responded Diomedes strong in war: 145
“You speak all this, O ancient, as truth and fate in-
clined;
With all, a grievous sorrow touches my heart and mind.
For Hektor to the Trojans may boast some future day:
‘Tydides, struck by terror, to the vessels fled away.’
Thus will he boast; then, yawning, may th’ earth gape
for me wide.” 150
To him Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, then replied:
“ Woe, son of warlike Tydeus, what are the words you
speak?
If e’er the mighty Hektor shall call you vile and weak,
The Trojans and Dardanians will not their credence

yield,
Nor the consorts of the Trojans, high-minded, armed
with shield, 155

Whose young and blooming husbands you cast in dust

by might.”
142 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus saying, the whole-hoofed horses he turned around

for flight

Back through the press; upon them the Trojans, Hektor
poured

With echoing cry their javelins with many a sorrow
stored.

And great helm-glancing Hektor called loudly to him
there: 160

“Tydides, whom the Danaans, swift-horsed, high
honour bare,
And gave you flesh and station with cups filled to the brim,
Will now bestow dishonour, since you a woman seem.
Go, timid girl! and never, since thus you yield to me,
Will you ascend our ramparts, nor lead all-scornfully 165
Our wives upon your vessels; ere this I give you fate.”’
Thus he: but Diomedes revolved in still debate
Whether to turn his horses and fight with force conjoined.
And three times he considered within his soul and mind,
And thrice on Ida’s mountains all-wise Zeus thundered
free, 170
Thus giving to the Trojans a sign of victory.
And Hektor, loudly shouting, called to the Trojan band:
“Ye Trojans, Lykians, Dardans, who battle hand to
hand,
Be heroes, friends, remember the power of rushing force.
I know that Zeus Kronion nods, granting to my
course 175
Victory and great glory, but to the Danaans, fate;
The fools, who here erected these weak walls, idly great!
These will not drive my strength back; my horses easily
Will leap the sunken trenches. But when at length we be
Beside the hollow vessels, be hostile fire your care, 180
That with flame I burn the vessels and slay the warriors
there.
[The Argives by the vessels, bewildered by the smoke.”’]
Thus saying, he exhorted his coursers as he spoke:
“ Xanthos, and you Podargos, Aithon and Lampos brave,
Pay now the food abundant which you so freely
ave 185
Andromaché, the daughter of great-souled Eetion;
BOOK VIII 163

By her the honey-dulcet wheat first to you was thrown,

[She mixed the wine for drinking when thirst incited you,]
Or by myself who boast me her husband strong and true.
Yet follow them and hasten, that to my hands be

given 190
The shadowy shield of Nestor, whose fame has reached
to heaven;

And all the shield is golden, itself and handles even;
And eke the dedal corselet upon the shoulders laid
Of Diomed, horse-tamer, which Vulcan, labouring, made.
If these I take, th’ Achaians, I’d hope, this very night 195

Would mount their rapid vessels to save their lives by

flight.”
Thus spoke he, boasting; Hera, revered, dire anger
took;
She on her throne was shaken, while great Olympus
shook;

And she then to Posidon, the mighty godhead, said:
“Ye gods, and you, Earth-Shaker, wielder of strength

all-dread, 200
Does not your mind afflict you while thus the Danaans
fall ?

They give you gifts in Aigai and Heliké withal,
And many they give and grateful; so, wish them victory.
And if we all should wish it, who the Danaans’ helpers be,
To drive away the Trojans and force Zeus thundering
wide, 205
Then might he sit despondent, alone on lofty Ide.”
To her the King earth-shaking, touched by great
grief, replied:
“Hera, in words intrepid, what were those words you
bare?
I do not wish us others to fight with Zeus in war,
The mighty son of Kronos, for he is better far.” 210
And such the conversation they with each other held.
The space between the vessels and moated wall was filled
By chariots and horses and men with bucklers skilled,
Who whirled in dire confusion; Priamides Hektor drave
Equal to rapid Ares, when Zeus this glory gave. 215
And now the equal vessels he with ardent fire had burned,
164 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

If the mind of Agamemnon were not by Hera turned,

So he should hasten quickly to urge th’ Achaians on.

And to th’ Achaian vessels and tents at once he run,

While his great robe of purple was held in his strong
hand, 220

And on the huge black vessel of Odysseus took his stand,

Which in the midst was standing; thus both ways his
words were sent;

[To Telamonian Ajax’ or to Achilles’ tent,

Who had drawn their equal vessels extremest on the

sands,
Confiding in their virtue and the stoutness of their
hands.] 225

He shouted to the Danaans, calling in piercing tone:
“Shame, Argives, ill reproaches, admired for form
alone!
Where now have gone the boastings, when you said that
you were best,
Which, when you were in Lemnos, all idly you expressed,
Eating much flesh of oxen, whose horns straight up in-

cline, 230
Or drinking from whole craters crowned high with spark-
ling wine,

That hundreds of the Trojans would from your fury run
When you appeared in battle? Now, you dare not meet

e’en one.

[Hektor alone, who quickly to the ships bright fire will
bring.]

Zeus Father, gave you ever to a prepotent king 235

Such anguish born of slaughter and took great fame
away?

But never your fair altar did I pass by, I say,

In many-banked vessel sailing, by ill luck hither turned,

Unless on each one oxen’s rich fat and thighs I burned,

Desiring aye destruction to bring to well-walled Troy. 240

But, Zeus, show so your favour that I this hope enjoy.

Permit us to evade them, in safety from them fly,

Nor suffer the Achaians by the Trojans thus to die.”
Thus he; and him the Father, pitying while he wept,

Nodded to save the people and from destruction kept. 245
BOOK VIII 165

At once he sent an eagle, most perfect bird we know,
With fawn clutched in his talons, young of a rapid doe;
Beside the beauteous altar of Zeus the rapt fawn fell;
And th’ Achaians sacrificed it to Zeus, knowing omens
well.
But when they saw Kronion had led the eagle’s flight, 250
They rushed upon the Trojans fiercely, remembering
fight.
Then no one of the Danaans, though many of them
were there,
Claimed that before Tydides he held his steeds and car
In driving from the trenches to fight the foe anew.
Yet he by far the foremost a Trojan warrior slew, 255
Agelaos, son of Phradmon, who turned his steeds for
flight:
But in his back, while turning, was fixed the javelin
bright,
Midway between the shoulders, and through the breast
it sprang;
He fell out of the chariot, and his armour o’er him rang.
Menelaos and Agamemnon, th’ Atridae, followed
him;* 260
And them the two Ajaces, endued with valour grim;
Idomeneus came after, his armour-bearer, then,
Meriones, the equal of Mars destroying men;
Eurypylos came after, Euaimon’s famous son;
And ninth of all came Teucer, who with bent bow came
on; 265
He stood beneath the buckler of Ajax Telamon.
And while he looked out, Ajax his shield above him
bowed,
But when with shaft he wounded some one among the
crowd,
Who then at once fell earthward, torn by death’s agonies,
Again he hastened backward, as child to mother flies, 270
To Ajax who concealed him behind his shining shield.
Who was the first of Trojans by blameless Teucer
killed ?
Orsilochos the first was, Ophelestes, Ormenos,

*Tydides.
166 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Then Chromios and Daitor, Lykophontes glorious,
Melanippos, Amaphaon Polyaimonides. 275
[He cast on one another to bounteous earth all these.]
And, seeing him, joy gladdened Agamemnon, king of
men,
Since he the Trojan phalanx with his strong bow brought
bane;
Going he stood beside him and with these words bespoke:
“O Teucer, dearly cherished, Telamonian, prince of
folk, 280
Shoot thus to be a glory among the Danaans all,
And Telamon, your father, who nurtured you while
small,
And, though a spurious offspring, nourished you in his
hall.
Exalt his name and glory, though he is far away,
And it shall be accomplished to you as thus I say: 285
If e’er Athena grant me, and aegis-bearing Zeus,
The well-built city Ilion in ruins dire to loose,
Next me, the greatest honour I to your hands will bear,
A tripod or two horses and, with themselves, the car,
Or I will give a woman who may ascend your bed.” 290
But, to his words replying, illustrious Teucer said:
“Most glorious Atrides, why do you urge me on,
Me, who myself am glowing? I leave no thing undone,
So far as power is in me; yet, since we pushed afield
The Trojans back toward Ilion, full many a man I
killed, 295
Striking them with my arrows. Eight long-forked shafts
I sent,
And all within the bodies of Mars-fleet warriors went;
Yet aye I fail in striking this dog all-ravening.”
He said; and yet an arrow he let fly from the string,
Directed straight at Hektor; his soul urged him to
: smite. 306
Again, this time he missed him; but with his arrow bright
In the breast he struck Gorgythion, Priam’s brave and
blameless son;
Whom beauteous Kastianira (her form a goddess’ own),
A bride borne from Aisyma, his mother, bore and bred.
BOOK VIII 167

And as, within a garden, a poppy droops its head = — 305

To either side when laden with fruit and vernal rain;

Thus did his head hang drooping, weighed by the helmet
vain.
Another arrow Teucer sent from the bowstring right
Against the breast of Hektor; his soul urged him to smite.
Yet once again he missed him, for Apollo made it veer, 310
But wounded Archeptolemos, Hektor’s bold charioteer
(As he rushed on to battle) by the mamma of the breast;
He tumbled from the chariot; the rapid chargers pressed
Tumultuously backward, and loosed were strength and
mind,

But o’er the soul of Hektor a heavy grief declined, 315

Since his charioteer was smitten, but he suffered him to lie,

Though for his comrade grieving; he bade his brother
nigh,

iene the guide-reins to take, and he obeyed.

To earth from his bright chariot a leap great Hektor

made,

Shouting with cries terrific, and took a rock in hand, 320

And rushed on to smite Teucer, as did his soul command.

But he* out of his quiver a bitter arrow drew

And placed it on the bowstring; yet, as bent the yew,

Helm-glancing Hektor struck him hard with the jagged
stone

(As Teucer rushed to meet him), where lies the collar-
bone 325

Between the neck and bosom, a spot the shoulders near;

And, of all fatal places, one of the worst is here.

It broke the nerve,t and palsy the hand and wrist-joint

spanned;

His knees sustained him falling, and the bow fell from
his hand.

Ajax did not abandon his brother on the field, 330

Yet, running, he protected and covered with his shield.

But soon two dear companions to him in succour came,

Echios’ son, Mekisteus, and Alastor of high name;

And bore to the hollow vessels, while much he groaned
in pain.

*Teucer. +The nerve used for a bowstring.
168 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Again th’ Olympian raised up in strength the Trojan

train, 335
And they pushed back th’ Achaians straight to the moat
at length,

And Hektor went the foremost, ferocious in his strength.
As when a dog, pursuing, with rapid feet has joined
A wild boar or a lion, and seizes it behind,
By haunch or by the buttock and guards its turning
there; 340
Thus Hektor followed after th’ Achaians with long hair,
And ever slew the hindmost; and they in flight were spent.
But when they, in their flying, through moat and paling
went,
And many by the hands of the Trojans were subdued,
They rallied from their panic and by the vessels stood, 345
Exhorting one another, and high their hands displayed
To all the gods above them, and loudly each one prayed.
His fair-maned horses Hektor drove, circling far and wide;
He had the eyes of Gorgon or Ares homicide.
The white-armed goddess, Hera, saw them, and pity
pressed; 350
And she at once Athena with wingéd words addressed:
“Ye gods, and you, the daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus,
Shall we neglect the Danaans in their straits calamitous?
Who, evil fates fulfilling, by one man’s force are torn,
Who rages with a fury no longer to be borne, 3
Hektor, the son of Priam; and many an ill he spread.”
Fierce-eyed Athena, goddess, in answer to her said:
“Yet, soothly now, this warrior’s spirit and strength were
banned.
And he by hands of th’ Argives slain in his fatherland,
Were not my father raging with an unfavouring mind; 360
Harsh, aye opposed to justice, and to my hopes unkind.
Nor does in aught remember my toils for his son* borne,
How oft I saved him failing, by Eurystheus’ dire tasks
worn,
In truth, he* wept to heaven; but Zeus sent me, an aid,
At once forth from great heaven to help his son dis-
mayed. 365

*Hercules.
BOOK VIII 169

But if these things full clearly to my keen mind were lent,

When to the house of Hades, with potent gates, he sent

To drag the dog of hated Hades from Erebus;

The Stygianwave’sdeep currentshehadnot fled from thus.

Now I to him am hateful, and Thetis’ will is pleased; 370

For on his knees she kissed him, with hand his chin she
seized,

Praying to honour Achilles, who towns destroys amain.

Times come when he his cherished Fierce-eyed will call
again.

But you the whole-hoofed horses prepare now for our use,

While I go to the mansions of aegis-bearing Zeus 375

And put on arms for battle, that I may see if thus

The son of Priam, helm-glancing Hektor, will laugh at us,

When he beholds me coming along the paths of war.

Sooth, someone of the Trojans to dogs and birds will bear

Content with flesh and fatness, ’mid th’ Achaian vessels

laid.” 380
Thus she; and white-armed Hera, the goddess her
obeyed.

Hera, the reverenced goddess, daughter of Kronos great,
In haste yoked up the horses, gold-bridled and elate.—
Aegis-bearing Zeus’s daughter Athena, goddess dire,
Spread out her flowing garment o’er the pavement of her
sire, 385
All-varied, which she laboured and with her hands had
made;
Cloud-gathering Zeus’s corselet was on her breast dis-
played,
And thus for tearful battle herself in arms arrayed.
Into the blazing chariot she ascended with her feet,
And laid hold on her javelin, heavy and strong and
great, 390
By which the battle orders of heroic men are torn,
’Gainst whom in ire she rages, of potent father born.
The steeds, by Hera guided, fast ’neath the scourge were
driven;
And by their own volition opened the gates of heaven,
Held by the Hours; Olympus and great heaven in their

guard 395
170 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Were placed, and the dense vapours they closed up or
unbarred.
Through these they drove the horses, urged on by goad
of fire.
But Father Zeus from Ida, seeing, felt anger dire,
And he incited Iris, gold-winged, these words to bear:
* Away, begone, fleet Iris, turn back the godheads

there, 400
Nor let them come against me; we would war unseem-
ingly.

For this I tell you plainly, which shall accomplished be;

I will lame their rapid coursers beneath themselves and
car,

And cast them from their chariot and the chariot break
and mar;

Nor shall within the circuit of ten revolving years 405

The wounds close and heal over which my burning light-
ning sears;

That Fierce-eyed know the anguish of warring with her
sire,

I rage not so ’gainst Hera, nor do I feel such ire;

For she is wonted ever to scorn what I decree.”

Thus he; storm-footed Iris sped with the embassy; 410
She went from Ida’s mountains down to Olympus great.
On many-valed Olympus, beside its foremost gate,

She met and there detained them and told the words of
Zeus:

“Where speed you? In your bosoms why do your

hearts rage thus?

Kronion will not suffer you the Argives to defend. 415

For thus the son of Kronos threatened to make the end:

He will lame your rapid horses beneath yourselves and
car,

And cast you from the chariot and the chariot break and
mar;

Nor shall within the circuit of ten revolving years,

The wounds close and heal over which his burning light-
ning sears; 420

That Fierce-eyed know the anguish of warring with her
sire;
BOOK VIII 171

Not thus his rage ‘gainst Hera, nor does he feel such ire,
For she is wonted ever what he decrees to scorn.
But you, O dog* most shameless and dire, if you dare

turn,
In sooth, your monstrous javelin against the might of
Zeus—” 425

And rapid-footed Iris went, having spoken thus.
But, to inform Athena, Hera’s thoughts for utterance

strove;

“Ye gods, and you, the daughter of aegis-bearing Jove,
Against Zeus’ might, for mortals, I will no longer vie;
And one may joy in living, another one may die, 430
Howe’er the lot; and let him, howe’er his mind incite,
Decide between the Trojans and Danaans, as is right.”

Thus saying, the whole-hoofed horses she homeward

turned once more.
The Hours released the coursers, who manes all-beau-
teous bore,
And fastened them to mangers ambrosial in the stalls, 435
And tilted back the chariots against the shining walls.
And they on golden couches sat down, and not apart,
But with the other godheads, though grieving at the heart.

But Father Zeus from Ida back to Olympus drove
His well-wheeled car and horses to the godheads’ seats

above. 440
Illustrious Posidon the coursers loosed for him,
And placed on rests the chariot, spreading linen o’er the

rim.

And Zeus himself, wide-thundering, sat on his throne of
gold;

And, ’neath his feet, a shiver o’er great Olympus rolled.

Apart from Zeus, Athena and Hera sat alone, 445

And questioned him in nothing nor any words made
known;

But in his mind he knew all and thus his thoughts ex-
pressed:

“ Hera, and you, Athena, why are you thus distressed ?
Not long you toiled in battle, which makes men’s glory
great,

*Athena.
172 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To bring death on the Trojans whom you hated with dire
hate. 450
In truth,sogreatmystrength is, my handsunmatched by far,
Not all the gods could turn me, who in Olympus are.
For you, your splendid members fear seized and held in
awe,
Ere the hard works of warring and war itself you saw.
And this IJ tell you plainly—the consequences dire: 455
‘You came not on your chariots, struck by the lightning’s
fire,
Again to great Olympus, where is th’ immortals’ seat.”’
Thus he; but both Athena and Hera groaned thereat.
‘They sat beside each other, for the Trojans ills designed;
Athena sat in slience, and spoke in naught her mind, 460
Though wroth at Zeus, the Father, and raging anger led.
Yet in her bosom Hera held not her ire, but said:
“Most terrible Kronion, what are these words you
speak?
But we all know full fairly your strength is far from weak;
Yet much we mourn the Danaans, in warring strong and
great, 465
Who now will find destruction, fulfilling evil fate.
[Yet we will keep from battle, if such your will displayed,
But give the Argives counsel, whatever may bear aid,
So that not all may perish while you have anger dread.]”’
To her, in making answer, Zeus, cloud-compelling,

said: 470
““Ox-eyed and reverenced Hera, if you wish you shall
behold

To-morrow morn Kronion, possessing strength untold,

Destroying the great army of th’ Argives brave and bold.

And mighty Hektor will not cease to drive on the fight,

Till he beside the vessels Pelides swift excite. 475

{And till the day they battle beside the ships amain,

In a most grievous passage around Patroklos slain.]

For thus these things are fated; your rage gives me no
care,

Not if to the last limits of earth and sea you fare,

Where Japetos and Kronos sit ungladdened by the
sound 480
BOOK VIII 173

Of winds or rays of Helios, but deep Tartaros is round;

Not if you thither wander will 1 with mercy view

Yourself enraged, since none is more impudent than you.”
Thus he; and white-armed Hera to him in naught

replied.—
Then the splendid light of Helios* fell in the Ocean’s
tide, 485

And drew the night all-sable upon the fertile earth.

The Trojans were unwilling to see the light go forth;

The dark night to th’ Achaians came grateful and de-
sired.—
A council of the Trojans famed Hektor then inspired,
And to the eddying river, far from the vessels, led 490
Where the earth was less encumbered, and a spot seemed
free from dead.

Descending from their chariots to earth, the speech they
heard

Which great helm-glancing Hektor, beloved by Zeus,
preferred;

His spear, elevencubits, in his strong hand he bore;

The brass point of the javelin sent sparkling flames
before. 495

And round about the javelin a golden circle sped;

And he, by this supported, words to the Trojans said:

“Hear me now, all ye Trojans, Dardans and hosts

allied,
I thought now, with the vessels and Achaians all de-
stroyed,
To bend my footsteps backward to wind-swept Ilion. 500
But darkness came before it, and saved ere this were done
The Argives and the vessels by the borders of the sea;
But now let us all follow the sable night’s decree,
Prepare for all a supper, and loosen from the car
The steeds with manes all-beauteous and give them fodder
here; 505
And bring out of the city oxen and fattened sheep,
In haste, and honey-dulcet wine with the others keep,
And bread from the wide mansions, and let much wood
be drawn,

*The sun.
174 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

That all the night till Eos, the daughter of the dawn,
We burn full many a watch-fire whose light to heaven

may glare, 510
Lest, haply, in the night-time, th’ Achaians with long
hair

May seek to fly by going on the broad backs of the sea.

Nor shall they go untoiling on their vessels quietly;

Yet each of them shall care for some wound when home
they go,

Wounded by the sharp javelin or by an arrow’s blow, 515

When they leap upon their vessels; so other folk shall fear

To bear horse-taming Trojans war, wet with many a tear.

But let the Zeus-loved heralds through all the city call

The youths just reaching manhood and white-haired
ancients all

To gather round the city within the god-built towers; 520

But let the weaker women, each in her mansions’ bowers,

A mighty fire enkindle; and let a firm guard stay,

Lest the foe break in in secret while the army is away.

Thus be it, great-hearted Trojans, such are the words

I say;
The speech which is most useful, let that one now be
borne; 525

To the horse-taming Trojans I’ll speak again at morn;

And, vowing to Kronion and the other godheads great,

I hope to drive from Ilion these dogs brought by dire fate.

[Whom on their sable vessels destructive fates incite.]

But let us place our watches to guard us through the
night; 530

To-morrow at the dawning, armed in our armour bright,

Beside the hollow vessels we will waken Ares dread.

I will see then if Tydides, the powerful Diomed,

Shall push me from the vessels back to the city wall,

Or I with brass shall kill him and bear his bloody
spoil.

His worth to-morrow morning securely will he show,

If he waits my rushing javelin; yet among the first, I trow,

Will he fall wounded sorely ’mid many companions dure,

When comes the morning sunrise. Would I were thus
secure
BOOK VIII 175

Of being an immortal and ageless all my days, 540

And honoured as Athena and Apollo in their praise,

As thus this day dire evil I bear the Argive name.”

Thus Hektor spoke; the Trojans broke into loud

acclaim.

And they the sweating horses loosed from the yoke they
bare,

And bound them with their halters, each one by his own
car; 545

And from the city oxen and fattened sheep they sought,

In haste, and honey-dulcet wine with the other brought,

And bread from the wide mansions, much wood to light
the gloom.

{And made for the immortals a perfect hecatomb.

The pleasant steam to heaven the winds bore from the

plain; 550
But the happy gods, not wishing, took naught in their
disdain;

For much by them was hated all-sacred Ilion here,

And Priam and the folk of Priam, good with the ashen
spear.]

But they,* great thoughts revolving, sat in the path

of war

Through all the night unbroken; and many fires burned
there. 555

As when the stars in heaven around the radiant moon

Appear arrayed in splendour, and the still air droops
aswoon;

{And every crag and summit high and the groves shine
there,

And from the very heaven opens the boundless air;]

And all the stars are lustrous, and the shepherd’s joy is
shown; 560

So many fires the Trojans kindled by Ilion.

Between the sable vessels and eddying Xanthos’ streams,

A thousand fires were kindled aplain; by each one’s

leams,
In the light of fire all-sparkling, full fifty warriors sate.
But the horses snowy barley and oats abundant ate 565

*The Trojans.
176 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And waited well-throned Eos, standing by cars elate.

BOOK IX.

THE EMBASSY TO ACHILLES. THE PRAYERS,

Thus held their guards the Trojans; but the Achaians
near
A boundless Flight o’ershadowed, the comrade of cold
Fear;
And all the chiefs were wounded by crushing grief and
pain.
And as two winds in tempest arouse the fish-rich main,
Boreas and rapid Zephyr, which both from Thrakia
blow
With sudden rushing onward, and sable billows flow
In stormy crests and bring out much sea-weed from the
sea;
Thus in th’ Achaians’ bosoms their minds raged angrily.
Atrides with great anguish was wounded to the heart,
He went to tell the heralds, clear-voiced as bade their
art, Io
To summon to a council each hero by his name,
And not to call; himself, then, among the foremost came.
And there they sat in sorrow; and Agamemnon stood
And wept, as a black fountain pours out its sable flood
Down a high rock; thus sighed he and th’ Argives told
his griefs: 15
“ O friends, ye Argive leaders, and all ye Argive chiets,
In sooth, me Zeus Kronion ensnared in evil fraud,
The cruel one, who erstwhile promised me with his nod
That I should ruin Ilion well-walled and home be borne;
He now ill snares devises and orders me to turn 20
Inglorious back to Argos, since many were lost by me.
But this to Zeus prepotent a source of joy will be,
Who the hights of many cities has cast down to their fall,
And many yet will cast down, for his power is over all.
But come, as I shall bid you, hearken to my command: 25
BOOK IX 177

Fly we upon our vessels to our dear fatherland,
For not yet shall we capture wide-streeted Ilion.”

Thus he; and soundless silence lay hold on everyone.
And the sons of the Achaians grieved long in silence there.
At length rose and addressed them Diomedes, good in

war: 30

“* Atrides, to oppose you, as rash, is my desire,

Which, King, is just in council and should not raise your
ire.

You, first among the Danaans, reproached the strength
T hold,

Saying I was unwarlike and cast in weaker mould;

And all the Argives know it, the young as well asold. 35

The son of wily Kronos gave you one of two things,

With the scepter gave you honour which o’er all others
springs;

He did not give you courage, whose power is greatest far.

Unhappy, do you think that th’ Achaians’ children are

So weak and so unwarlike as once you said in scorn ?— 40

But if your mind impels you to hasten your return,

Go; there’s a path before you, your ships stand near the
sea,

Which followed from Mukenai, and very many they be.

Yet others of the Achaians, long-haired, will make a
stand

Till we shall ruin Ilion. Yet if themselves demand, 45

Let them fly on their vessels to their dear fatherland;

But we, myself and Sthenelos, will fight until we find

The fated end of Ilion; for we came with godhead kind.”

Thus he; and all thi sons of the 'Achaians clamour

spread,

Approving thus the speech of horse-tamer Diomed. 50

But rising up among them, the horseman Nestor said:

“ Tydides, in the battle great power you manifest,

Tn counsel, with your equals, of all you are the best,

And no one blames your counsels, who from Achaia
springs,

And no one contradicts you; yet you speak not of all
things.

For you are young and might be my son of latest birth,
178 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But to the Argive leaders most wisely you hold forth,
Since you speak of what is seeming. But come, and |

will view

And run through all the matter, being older much than
you;

Nor will King Agamemnon nor anyone reprove. 60

Outcast and lawless, homeless is whose’er may love

Horrid intestine warfare. But now let us obey

The sable night and supper prepare through the array;

And let the several sentries beside the sunk moat lie

Without the wall. To the younger these things I would
apply; 65

But next, begin, Atrides, for yours is highest trust;

Give banquet to the elders; it seems you and is just.

Your tents hold wine in plenty, which th’ Achaian ships
provide

You every day from Thrakia across the ocean wide;

For this all things are ready; and many bear your sway. 70

And, many being gathered, his words you should obey

Who gives you the best counsel; and counsels good and
wise

Th’ Achaians need full sorely, because their enemies

Kindle around the vessels many fires which joy us
naught.—

This night will save the army or see its ruin wrought.” 75

Thus he; they heard attentive, obeying then his

thought.

And, with their arms, the sentries went, following hastily

Thrasymedes, son of Nestor, pastor of people he,

Askalaphos and Ialmenos, who were the sons of Mars,

And Aphareus and Merion and Deipyros, bold in wars, 80

And godlike Lykomedes, who was great Keron’s son.—

The sentries had seven leaders, and went forth with each
one

A hundred youthful warriors, holding long spears in hand;

They, going to the middle ’twixt wall and moat, made
stand,

And there a fire enkindled, and each his supper sped. 85

Th’ Achaians’ gathered elders to his tent Atrides led,
And placed for them a banquet, conferring fortitude.
BOOK IX 179

And they their hands extended upon the ready food.

But when they felt the pleasure of meat and drinking pall,

Nestor to weave his counsel began the first of all, ge

The ancient, who, before this, seemed aye to counsel best;

And he, their weal desiring, harangued them and ad-
dressed:

“ Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men,

With you I end my counsel, with you will I begin;

For you o’er many peoples are king; Zeus gave your
hands

Laws and an equal scepter for you to rule these lands.

For this it well beseems you to speak of all and hear,

And take another’s counsel when anyone appear

To speak aright; the counsels are given to you to test.

But now I tell you plainly what seems to me the best. 100

For not another speaker will better thoughts avow

Than those of my devising, of old as well as now,

From the time you, Zeus-descended, to Pelides’ quarters
went

And took the maid Briseis from wroth Achilles’ tent

Against my fixed opinion. And much did I dissuade, 105

But in your mind great-hearted your anger you obeyed,

And disgraced the bravest warrior, whom th’ immortals
honour paid;

You took and hold his present. But let us counsel now

How soothing gifts and speeches soft-spoken may allow

Us yet to soothe his anger and win him back again.” 110

To him in turn responded Agamemnon, king of men:

“O ancient, not with falsehood my errors you impart;

T erred and do not hide it; a man whom in his heart

Great Zeus holds in affection, is worth full many a man;

Thus now, this chief he honoured by th’ Achaian people’s
ban. 115

But since IJ fell in error by froward passions swayed,

I wish again to appease him by boundless ransom paid.

I, ’mid all here assembled, the famous gifts unfold:

Untouched by flame, seven tripods, ten talents, too, of
gold,

And twenty shining cauldrons, twelve coursers good and
fleet, 120
180 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Victors in race; and prizes they've conquered with their
feet.

Not landless would that man be to whom such gifts were
told,

Nor yet without possessions of greatly honoured gold,

Who owned so many prizes as these whole-hoofed steeds
bore me.

And I will give seven women who work all skilfully, 125

Lesbians, and whom, when Lesbos well-built I took, I
chose;

And they the race of women surpass in fair repose.

These will I give, and with them shall be the one I bare

Away, the maid Briseis; and I a great oath will swear

That never I ascended her bed to her embrace, 130

As wont with men and women—as with the human race.

These things are all now ready; but if the gods design

To give Priam’s mighty city a spoil to hands of mine,

Let him to fill his vessel much brass and gold provide,

Entering when th’ Achaians the ravished spoil divide. 135

And twenty Trojan women let him make choice of there

Who, after Argive Helen, shall be ’mid all most fair.

And if Achaian Argos, the udder of the land,

We reach, my daughter’s husband, like Orestes shall he
stand,

Who, loved by me, is nurtured amid a wealth untold.—140

And in my well-built mansions three daughters do I hold;

Laodiké, Iphianassa, Chrysothemis are they;

Let him lead which one he wishes, without a dower to pay,

To the mansions of great Peleus; yet will I give gifts

brave;
So many, that ne’er a father such dower with daughter
gave. 145

Of my well-peopled cities, to him will I give seven:
Kardamylé and Enopé and grassy Ira even,

Pherai divine, Atheia which ’mid its meadows shines,
Aipeia fair and Pedasos, rich in its fruitful vines.

And all are near the sea-shore, the last to sandy Pyle;—150
Vast herds of sheep and oxen requite their dwellers, toil,
And they will hold in honour with gifts as if a god,
And pay beneath his scepter rich tributes at his nod.
BOOK IX 181

These things, thus, will I givehim that he may cease his ire.
And let him be persuaded; Hades is harsh and dire, 155
And for this, of all godheads men hate his name the most.
But let him yield before me, for, more than this, I boast
Myself to be the kinglier and I was elder born.”
To him Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, spoke in turn:
* Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men, 160
You offer gifts not worthless in King Achilles’ ken;
But come, let us men chosen from all the rest urge on
To seek in haste the quarters of Achilles, Peleus’ son.
Come then, I will select them; but let them all obey.
Be first Zeus-cherished Phoinix, and let him lead the
way; 165
Then let great Ajax follow and Odysseus, the divine,
And Hodios and Eurybates, the heralds, close the line.
But for our hands bring water and use words scrupulous,
That we pray to Zeus Kronion, and he may pity us.”
Thus he; and all assembled approved his words’
demands. 170
Immediately the heralds poured water o’er their hands;
The young men crowned the beakers with wine and gave
to all,
Yet in the ready goblets the first wine they let fall.
But when they poured libations, they drank till thirst was
spent,
And left in haste Atrides’, King Agamemnon’s tent. 175
Gerenian Nestor, horseman, with many words urged on,
Glances on each one casting, but most Odysseus won,
That they might try to soften great Pcleus’ blameless son.
They went along the shore of the many-sounding sea,
And vowed much to earth-shaking Posidon earnestly, 180
That they with ease might soften Aiakides’ great mind.—
But soon the tents and vessels of the Myrmidons they
joined.
They found him* there delighting his soul with the clear
lyre,
ieeas is and dedal, with bridge of silvery fire.
He took it from the spoils when he razed Eetion’s
town, 185

* Achilles.
182 _ THE ILIAD OF HOMER

With it his soul enraptured and sang men’s high renown.
With him Patroklos only sat mutely listening,
Waiting upon Aiakides till he should cease to sing.
Then both the two went forward, divine Odysseus led,
And stood by him; Achilles leapt up, amaze o’er-
spread, 190
Holding the very cithern, leaving his seat’s repose;
And thus, likewise, Patroklos, seeing the heroes, rose.
And swift-of-foot Achilles greeted them and addressed:
“Welcome ye friendly warriors. Sure, some great
need has pressed
You, who of all th’ Achaians are dearest to me wroth.” 195
So saying, divine Achilles at once led forward both,
And seated them on couches with purple coverings sheer,
He then addressed Patroklos who yet was standing near:
“ For these a greater crater, son of Menoitios, bear;
Mix purer wine than wonted, a cup for each prepare. 200
For these are dearest heroes beneath my roof arrayed.”
Thus spoke he; and Patroklos his comrade dear
obeyed.
At once a mighty cauldron in the flame of fire he put,
And in it placed the chines of a sheep and fattened goat,
Together with the back of a greatly fattened swine. 205
Automedon the meat held, while carved Achilles divine;
He cut it in small pieces and on the sharp spits ran;—
A mighty fire was made by Patroklos, godlike man.
But when the red fire languished, and the flame had well
decayed,
He strewed about the embers and the spits upon them
laid; 210
And sacred salt he sprinkled and from the spit-racks
raised,
And dressed the meat upon them and on the tables placed.
Patroklos on the table arranged as due the bread,
In beauteous trays; Achilles the meat distributed.
Before divine Odysseus Pelides station had 215
Against the wall; Patroklos, his comrade dear, he bade
To offer to the godheads; the first in fire he cast.
Then they their hands brought forward upon the fit re-
past.
BOOK IX 183

But when desire for drinking and eating lesser grew,

Ajax to Phoinix nodded; and divine Odysseus
knew;— 220

Filling with wine a goblet, he pledged Achilles true.

“Achilles, health; for feasting replete no want is

known

In Agamemnon’s quarters, great Atreus, kingly son,

Or now with you; for many strong dainties you prepare;

Yet now a grateful banquet we hold not in our care; 225

A very great disaster, Zeus-bred, we see and fear,

And doubt if safe or ruined are our well-banked vessels
here,

Unless you come to aid us. or near wall and vessels are

The camps of haughty Trojans and their allies called
from far,

Burning full many a watch-fire amid their army all; 230

They say they will not linger, but on our black ships fall.

Kronion for them lightens, showing portents on the right,

And Hektor rages madly, exulting in his might;

And he, in Zeus confiding, fears neither men nor gods;

And him a powerful madness has seized on and cor-
rodes; 235

He prays that quickly Eos divine may bring the day;

And _ boasts that then the vessels’ high poops he’ll cut
away,

And burn the hollow vessels with all-destructive fire,

But slay by them th’ Achaians, distressed by smoke
wreathes dire.

And in my mind all gravely J hold these things in fear, 240

Lest the gods accomplish duly for him his threatenings
drear;

Since to us it may be fated in the fields of Troy to die,

Far from horse-feeding Argos. Yet come, if earnestly

You think, though late, the wasted Achaians to defend

From the onslaught of the Trojans. A future day will
send ; 245

‘To you a meed of sorrow; nor are there measures sure,

When evil is accomplished, to find a fitting cure.

But much, ere that, consider how the Danaans’ evil day

You may ward off, O dear one; your father Peleus lay
184 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Upon you his injunctions, when he from Phthia sent 250

To aid King Agamemnon: ‘High valour will be lent

To you, my son, by Hera and Athena if they list.

But you your soul great-hearted contain within your
breast,

For humanity is better; from ill contention hold,

That you have greater honour from the Argives, young
and old.’ 255

Thus gave advice the ancient; you have forgotten all.

But yet, e’en now, give over and let your sad wrath fall;

And you King Agamemnon with worthy presents well

Will pay for ceasing anger. And I will fully tell,

If you will to me listen, how many presents due 260

In his tents King Agamemnon promised to give to you:

Untouched by flame, seven tripods, ten golden talents, too,

And twenty shining cauldrons, twelve coursers good and
fleet,

Victors in race; and prizes they’ve conquered with their
feet.

Not landless would that man be to whom such gifts were
told, 265

Nor yet without possessions of greatly honoured gold,

Who owned so many prizes as these steeds gained with
their feet.

And he will give seven women, in blameless works
discreet,

Lesbians, whom, when Lesbos well-built you took, he
chose;

And they the race of women surpass in fair repose. 270

These will he give, and with them shall be the one he
bare

Away, the child of Briseus; and he a great oath will swear

That never he ascended her bed to her embrace,

As wont with men and women—as with the human race,

These things are all now ready; but if the gods have
planned 275

To give Priam’s mighty city to fall before our hand,

You may, to fill your vessel, much brass and gold provide,

Entering when the Achaians the ravished spoil divide.

And twenty Trojan women you may make choice of there.
BOOK IX 185

Who, after Argive Helen, shall be ’mid all most fair. 280
And if Achaian Argos, the udder of the land
We reach, his daughter’s husband, like Orestes you shall
stand,
Who, loved by him, was nurtured amid a wealth untold.
And in his well-built mansions three daughters does he
hold,
Laodiké, Iphianassa, Chrysosthemis are they; 285
You may lead whom you make choice of, without a dower
to pay,
To the mansions of great Peleus; yet will give gifts brave;
So many that ne’er a father such dower with daughter
ave.
Of his well-peopled cities, to you will he give seven,
Kardamylé and Enopé and grassy Ira even, 290
Pherai divine, Antheia which ’mid its meadows shines,
Aipeia fair and Pedasos, rich in its fruitful vines.
And all are near the sea-shore, the last to sandy Pyle.
Vast herds of sheep and oxen requite their dwellers, toil,
And they will bear you honour with gifts as if a god, 295
And pay beneath your scepter rich tributes at your nod.
These things will he accomplish if you from ire depart.
But if, in truth, Atrides you hate more in your heart,
Himself and gifts; yet pity all the other Achaians worn,
Throughout the host, whose honour will you, like god,
adorn. 300
Amid them; lofty glory for you will sure appear.
For now you may kill Hektor, since he comes very near,
Having destructive madness, and says none is his peer
Of those among the Danaans whom the vessels hither led.”
To him, in making answer, foot-swift Achilles said: 305
“ Zeus-descended Laertiades, Odysseus many-skilled,
’Tis fitting my decision to speak by candour thrilled.
Just as I think and just as the sure event makes known;
Lest one and then another, sitting beside me, drone.
For he to me is hated as hated Hades’ gates, 310
Who in his soul hides one thing and yet another states.
And as to me it seems best, to you I plainly say,
I think that Agamemnon my purpose cannot sway,
Nor yet the other Danaans; no thanks would come to me
186 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

From fighting hostile warriors ever unceasingly. 315
‘The same fate strikes the lingerer and him who shines in
war;

And held in equal honour the base and valiant are;

And die alike the sluggard and he who much has done.

And in my mind I suffered great griefs, but naught I won,

Risking my life forever amid the works of war. 320

And as a bird her young ones, unfeathered, food will bear,

Whenever she shall find it, though evil be her fare,

Thus sleepless nights and many for me have passed away,

And I have finished warring full many a bloody day,

Fighting with hostile warriors to save your consorts
praised. 325

And, with my ships assailing, twelve cities of men I razed;

On foot, in fertile Troad I took eleven more;

From all of these possessions many and rich I bore,

And, bearing all to Atrides, to Agamemnon gave;

And he remained behind us in the swift ships by the
wave, 330

Receiving them; some little he gave, but much he held,

And gave gifts to the monarchs and chieftains who ex-
celled.

They keep their gifts; of th’ Argives, from me alone by
might

He took and holds my consort; let him with her delight.

Of war between the Trojans and Argives what the
need ? 335

Why did Atrides gather his folk and hither lead?

If not for well-haired Helen? Or do th’ Atridae, then,

Alone their consorts cherish ’mid speech-dividing men !—

Not so, for every hero of good and prudent whole

His consort loves and cares for; thus I loved her in my

soul, 340
Though she was but a captive. Now, since he has be-
trayed

And from my hands has taken, let not th’ attempt be made
On me who know him fully, for he shall not persuade.
But with the other chieftains and you let him conspire,
Odysseus, how the vessels he guard from hostile fire. 345
Sooth, much he has accomplished without me, and a wall
BOOK IX 185

Has built, and he has driven a broad deep trench round
all,

And filled it well with palings; yet thus he cannot guard

The strength of slaughtering Hektor. While with th’
Achaians I warred,

Hektor wished not the battle to rouse far from the

wall, 350
Yet came but to the beech-tree and the Skaian gates
withal;

There singly once he waited and hardly ’scaped my ire.—

But since to war with Hektor divine I’ve no desire,

To Zeus at morn I offer, and to all the deities,

And load my vessels fully and draw down to the seas; 355

You shall see, if e’er you wish it, if by it you are drawn,

On the fish-rich Hellespontos my vessels sail at dawn,

And, in them, men desiring to row with willing mood;

But if the great Earth-Shaker give me a voyage good,

The third day fertile Phthia will to my eyes appear. 360

There have I many possessions I left in erring here;

And richly-girdled women and gray iron will I bear,

And other gold and ruddy brass ¢o my riches there;

All which to me were lotted; but the gift he gave one day,

Atrides Agamemnon with insults took away; 365

But tell him all in public, for such is my desire,

So all the other Achaians may feel the sting of ire,

If he, full shameless ever, shall have it in his care

To cheat some other Danaan, yet let him never dare,

Dog as he is, and shameless, to look me in the face. 370

I will not counsel with him nor actions with him trace;

For once now he offended and cheated, not again

Will he deceive with phrases; enough has passed in vain;

But let him die in quiet; wise Zeus his mind distraught.

By me his gifts are hated, and I esteem him naught. 375

And he tenfold might offer, and twentyfold in vain,

And all he now possesses and all he yet may gain;

And what Orchomenos gathers, and Egyptian Thebes
enthralls,

Where manifold possessions are lying in the halls;

The hundred-gated city, and through each gate to
wars 380
188 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Rush out two hundred warriors with horses and with cars.

And if as many presents as sands or dust were made,

Not thus could Agamemnon in aught my soul persuade,

Before the whole mind-grieving affront is expiated.

The child of Agamemnon Atrides I’ll not wed; 385

Not if with golden Venus’ her beauty might contend,

And with fierce-eyed Athena’s her workmanship might
blend;

By no means will I wed her; another Achaian may,

Whoe’er may be beseeming and bear a kinglier sway.

But if the gods shall save me, and safely home I go, 390

Peleus himself a woman will on myself bestow.

Full many Achaian women in Hellas and Phthia are,

Daughters of mighty princes who guard their towns

in war;
*Mid these a cherished consort to suit me, I shall find.
And very much incites me to this my virile mind: 395

To wed a lawful consort, a fitting wife confessed,

And thus enjoys the treasures which Peleus old possessed;

For not of equal value with my life is all the store,

They say the well-built city of Ilion held before

In peace, before the sons of th’ Achaians thither bore; 400

And not as many treasurers as the stony threshold holds,

Of Phoebus, the far-darting, in rocky Pytho’s folds.

For fattened sheep and oxen the robber’s hand may gain,

And tripods may be purchased, and steeds with yellow
mane;

But the life of man returns not to crown him with its
wreath, 405

And nevermore is taken when it leaves the hedge of teeth.

For silver-footed Thetis, my mother, told before

That fates of double portion till the end of death I bore.

If fighting by the city of the Trojans I remained;

I came not back, but perished, yet undying glory
gained; 410

But if I wandered homeward to my dear fatherland,

Good glory for me perished, but long my life was spanned,

And not to me, then, quickly the end of death would
come.

And I advise the others to spread their sails for home;
BOOK IX 189

Not yet will you discover the end of Ilion grand, 415

For much Zsus widely-thundering protects it with his
hand,

And the men have taken courage. But you these things
unfold

To the Achaian chieftains (this gift is for the old),

‘That they some other counsel from their minds, and
better crave,

Which the ships and the Achaians in the hollow vessels
save, 420

Since that has not succeeded which they devised in vain,

For still I nourish anger. Let Phoinix here remain

And sleep; that on the vessels to our dear fatherland

He go to-morrow if willing; but not by my command.”

Thus he; and all were silent and sat in silence

hence, 425
And wondered at his phrases, for he used much vehem-
ence.
At length spoke out horse-driver Phoinix, old man
revered,
Shedding his tears all freely; for the Achaian ships he
feared: ;

“Tf, illustrious Achilles, within your mind you guard
Thought of return, and wish not devouring fire to

ward * 430
Of from the rapid vessels, since wrath your mind has
sown;

How, then, dear son, are you able to leave me here alone ?
The old horse-driver Peleus sent me with you that day,
He sent you young from Phthia to Agamemnon’s sway,
Not yet well-skilled in warring which wastes with equal

fate, 435
And knowing naught of councils which make men famed
and great.

For this he sent me with you to teach you all your needs,

To be of words a speaker, to be a doer of deeds.

Thus then, I would not leave you, dear son, if a god, in
sooth,

Me, of old age divesting, should make a blooming
youth 440
199 ILIAD OF HOMER

Such as I first left Hellas, whose women’s beauty please,

Fleeing strife with my father, Amyntor Ormenides.

For he at me was angered through his concubine well-
haired

Whom he loved; yet, thus, dishonour for his wife, my
mother, prepared.

And ever she, embracing my knees, would supplicate 445

To win the girl’s affections, so the old man have her hate.

I heeded her and did so; and, knowing soon, my sire

Whelmed me with many curses and prayed the Furies
dire:

That on his knees should never a cherished son abide,

Begot by me; the godheads his curse have ratified: 450

Zeus, ruling subterranean, and revered Persephoné;

And him in sooth, I plotted with the sharp brass to slay;

Yet someone of th’ immortals restrained my wrath again,

Who gave me with the people much blame and praise of

men;
And thus, ’mid the Achaians, I am not called _parri-
cide. 455

But, from all this, my spirit no longer could abide

To dwell there in the mansions while my father was irate.
Yet much my friends and kindred around me held debate
And, praying, they detained me within the mansions

great;

And many sheep well-fattened and oxen  crooked-
horned, 460

Who trailed their feet, they slaughtered, and many swine,
adorned

With fat, were stretched in roasting o’er Vulcan’s fire
divine;

And from the jars was drunken much of the old man’s
wine.

And for nine nights successive they slumbered round-
about,

And held their watches, changing; nor did the fires go
out; 465

And one was in the portico of the well-guarded hall;
In the vestibule, another, before the room doors tall.
But when the tenth night gloomy to my desiring came,
BOOK IX 191

I broke the chamber’s portals, joined deftly in the frame,

And fled and lightly leapt o’er the hall’s inclosing
ward, 470

And, using stealth, evaded the maids and men on guard.

And far through spacious Hellas did I my wanderings
keep,

And came to fertile Phthia, mother of many sheep,

To the mansions of King Peleus, who there received me
prone,

And loved me as a father loves well his only son, 475

Born in his age declining to many possessions brave.

He made me rich in treasure and many people gave;

I ruled o’er the Dolopians, in Phthia’s last abodes.

And taught you till the present, Achilles like the gods,

Loving with all my spirit; since you would not take
meat 480

At banquet with another, nor in the mansions eat

Before I held you lightly upon these knees of mine,

And carved you meat till sated, and gave to you your

' wine.

And often have you wetted the tunic on my breast

With wine which you ejected in infancy’s unrest. 485

Thus for you much I suffered and toiled full heavily,

Thinking that, since the godheads bestowed no child on
me,

That I, godlike Achilles, might make of you my child,

So you would guard my weakness from destruction all-
defiled.

Yet, O Achilles, master your great rage, ’t is not sent 490

To have a heart unbending; the gods themselves relent.

And they a greater virtue and might and honour bear.

Them men beseech with offerings and with appeasing
prayer

And fragrant steam and incerfSe, and many a vow begin

When anyone trangresses and falls in heavy sin. 495

For Prayers are great Zeus’ daughters; are lame and
squinting-eyed

And wrinkled; following Até, they care for ill provide.

But strong and perfect-footed is Até, so goes forth;

And, going far before them, precedes in all the earth,
192 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And works much harm to mortals; but afterwards they*

heal. 500
Yet he who fears Zeus’ daughters when they themselves
reveal,

They benefit him greatly and hear him in his prayer,
But whoso may deny them and harsh refusal bear,
Approaching Zeus Kronion, to him in turn they pray
That Até may pursue him till he the penalty pay. 505
Give, then, to Zeus’s daughters, Achilles, honour due,
They bend the minds of others as brave and strong as you.
And if Atrides brought not the gifts, and others yet,

But ever was by anger as furiously beset,

I would not, then, advise you to cast aside your wrath, 510
And bear aid to the Argives pressed by the direst scath;—
But many gifts he gives you and offers others great

To come, and sends the noblest of the Achaian state,
And the Argives dearest to you, that they may supplicate.
You should not blame their speeches, nor yet their feet

impede, 515
Though erstwhile you were blameless when you to ire
gave heed.

And thus we know the story of elder heroes’ fame,
Whene’er on such a spirit transcendent anger came,
How he by gifts was softened and soothed by accents due.
I such a deed remember, ancient and nowise new; 520
And this I tell you plainly, who all are friends and true.
Kuretes and Aitolians, full strong in battle, fought
Around the city Kalydon, and mutual slaughter brought.
Th’ Aitolians the defense of all-pleasant Kalydon bare,
And the Kuretes wished much to ruin it in war. 525
For Artemis gold-thronéd, irate, the evil willed,
Since Oineus had not offered the first fruits in the field;
While all the other godheads by hecatombs were fed,
Yet to great Zeus’s daughter alone they were not made.
He knew not or forgot it, but much in spirit erred, 530
For she, in arrows joying, of race divine, was stirred
To wrath, and sent against him a white-toothed forest
boar,
Who on the land of Oineus wrought many an evil sore;
*The Prayers.
BOOK IX 193

And, heaped on one another, he cast great trees to earth
With their very roots and the blossoms themselves of ripe
fruit’s birth. 535
But him the son of Oineus, great Meleager, killed,
Who from full many a city brought dogs and huntsmen
skilled.
By no small band of mortals was slain this monster dire,
So great was he; and many he gave the mournful pyre.
But she* round himf incited a war and tumult sore, 540
About the skin all-bristling and the head of the wild boar,
Between the great Kuretes and Aitolians great-souled.—
While Mars-loved Meleager the ranks of war controlled,
So long to the Kuretes the tide of evil bare;
They could not leave their ramparts although they many
were. 545
But when on Meleager came ire which, in the breast,
Swells up the mind of others though they are prudentest:
For with his mother Althaia he was enraged at heart,
And with fair Kleopatra, his consort, stayed apart,
(The daughter of Marpessa, endowed with ankles fair, 550
The daughter of Evenus and Idas, who was there
And then of all men earthly the bravest whom we know,
Who ’gainst Apollo Phoebus, the King, took up his bow
For his wife with beauteous ankles, whom in the mansions
famed
Hert sire and honoured mother Alkyoné surnamed, 555
Because her mother, having Alkyoné’s sad lay,
Mourned when far-darting Phoebus Apollo took away).
But he§ remained beside her, digesting cruel ire,
Enraged against his mother who had cursed with curses
dire,
And, grieving much, had prayed to the gods for her
brother slain. 560
And oft the earth all-fertile with her hands she struck
amain,
Invoking gloomy Hades and dire Persephoné
(While tears bedewed her bosom, and she sat with bended
knee),
To give her son destruction; and heard in Erebus

*Diana. Meleager. §{Kleopatra. §Meleager.
194 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The darkness-walking Fury, with heart most rigorous; 565
And soon around their * portals rose noise and tumult
rim,

The ce shook, and the elders of th’ Aitolians prayed
to him,

And sent priests of the godheads, the best of all the state,

That he might come and guard them, and promised
presents great:

Where’er, in pleasant Kalydon, was plain of richest
yield, 570

They bade him to select thence a very beauteous field,

Equal to fifty acres; one half of vineland good,

One half of prairie fallow on which there was no wood.

And much horse-driver Oineus, the ancient, to him

prayed,

Ascending to the threshold of his room, with high roof
made, 575

And shook the well-joined door-posts and, kneeling, to
him prayed.

And very much his sisters and honoured mother made
prayer;

But he the more refused them; and many companions
there

Prayed him; they were the friendliest and dearest ones
of all;

But the mind within his bosom they did not turn
withal, 580

Till his room was strongly battered, and on the towers
elate

The Kuretes went and kindled fires in the city great.

His well-zoned consort, weeping, prayed Meleager then,
And showed him all the evils, as many as chance to men
Whose city may be taken: the warriors all they slay, 585
And fire destroys the city, and others lead away
Children and deep-zoned. women to serve in slavery’s day.
His soul was moved by hearing the tale of evil harms;
He went in haste and put on his form all-shining arms.
And thus he from th’ Aitolians kept off the evil day, 590
Yielding to his soul’s promptings, but they did not convey

*The Kalydonians.
BOOK IX 195

The many gifts and grateful; but ill he put away.

Yet think not thus in spirit, nor let a god coerce,

O friend, you in this matter; for it would be far worse

To guard the burning vessels; go for the gifts be-
stowed, 595

And you all the Achaians will honour like a god.

But if, without the presents, man-withering war you dare,
You will not have such honour though you repel the war.”
But swift-of-foot Achilles in answer him addressed:
“My agéd father, Phoinix, Zeus-nurtured, I attest 600
That I this honour need not; since by great Zeus’s hest,

I think that Iam honoured; that hest will me detain
Beside the curve-bowed vessels while life in me remain,
And while my knees have motion. Another thing I say,
But hide it in your bosom, and do not disarray 605
My soul by wail and weeping and flattery thus concede
To the hero, son of Atreus;— to love him there’s no need,
Lest thus I hold in hatred you in whose love I joy;
Tis good, with me, to annoy him who gives to me annoy.
Yet reign you as my equal and half my honour keep, 610
But here, with us remaining, upon a soft bed sleep;

_ And with the glowing morning we will consult again,
Whether we journey homeward or if we here remain.”

Thus he, and to Patroklos he nodded silently
Beneath his brows, that Phoinix a well-strewed bed

should see, 615
While they* thought of the speediest way to leave the
tent.—

Them Telamonian Ajax, divine, his counsel lent:
“ Laertiades, Zeus-descended, Odysseus many-skilled,

Depart we, for it seems that our aim is not fulfilled

This way; and it behooves us to tell with prompti-
tude 620

This story to the Danaans (although it is not good),

Who now are sitting waiting. Yet Achilles has com-
pressed

A wild and haughty spirit deep in his sullen breast;

Harsh one, who is not bended by his companions’ love,

Which by the ships we gave him, and which was far
above 625

*The ambassadors.
196 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

That which we gave the others; he feels not Pity’s sway;
Yet some receive the ransom a brother’s death to pay,
Or for his own son slaughtered; the murderer remains
At home among his people by paying many pains.

And his* heart and manly spirit at length are set at

rest, 630
When he receives the ransom. The gods placed in your
breast

Relentless mind and evil for but a single maid.

Now have we offered seven in fairer charms arrayed,

And many gifts beside them; but have propitious mind,

And hold your house in reverence, for, “neath your roof
enshrined, 635

Are we from all the Danaans, and we to you would fain

Be friendliest and dearest of the Achaian train.”

Then fleet-of-foot Achilles to him replied in brief:

““O Telamonian Ajax, Zeus-born, the peoples’ chief,

You seem in this to tell all as from your soul it springs; 640

But my heart is swollen by anger when I recall these
things,

How dishonour, ’mid the Argives, Atrides gave to me

As if I were a rover, disgraced on land and sea.—

Yet go and tell my message; for I shall not be won

To the cares of bloody warring, ere warlike Priam’s
son, 645

Hektor divine, shall come to my tents and ships in ire,

While slaughtering the Argives, to burn the ships with
fire.

But Hektor, though desiring, will hold the battle’s glow

Before my tented quarters and sable ship, I trow.”

Thus he; and each one, taking the double cup, then

sped 650

Libations; to the vessels they went; Odysseus led.

Patroklos his companions and maids bade earnestly

Strew a thick bed for Phoinix, and that most speedily.

And they, obeying, made up the bed as he had told,

Of coverlets and sheep-skins and linen’s finest fold. 655

The old man slept and waited till Dawn divine was sent

But Achilles lay in th’ alcove of his well-compacted tent;

*The nearest relation of the murdered.
BOOK IX 197

And by him lay a woman whom he from Lesbos bare,
The daughter of great Phorbas, Diomedé, with cheeks

fair;
On the other side Patroklos lay, and by him lay the
slave, 660

Iphis well-zoned, a present divine Achilles gave,

When he captured lofty Skyros, city of Enyeus brave.

But when they to the tents of Atrides great were borne,

Th’ Achaians’ sons received them with golden cups, in
turn

Rising to show them honour, interrogating then. 665

And first of all asked questions Agamemnon, king of men.

“Tell me, much-praised Odysseus, th’ Achaians’ glory

dire,

If he desired the vessels to guard from hostile fire,

Or not, since his proud spirit is yet controlled by ire?”

To him divine Odysseus, much-enduring, said

again; 670

“ Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men,

He wishes not to extinguish his rage, but more his view

To fill his mind with anger; he scorns your gifts and you.

And bids you with the Argives devise some plan amain

That you may save the vessels and the Achaian train; 675

And threatens in the morning as soon as Eos shine,

To draw his well-banked vessels, all-equal, to the brine;

And advises all the others their sails for home t’ expand,

For you will not discover the end of Ilion grand,

Since much Zeus, widely-thundering, protects it with his

hand, 680
And the folk have taken courage. And these can witness
true,

Ajax and both the heralds, and both of prudence due.

But there the aged Phoinix sleeps, as he gave command,

That in the ships he follow to his dear fatherland

To-morrow, if he wishes, but does in naught com-
mand,” 685

Thus he; and all were silent and sat in silence hence

[And long admired his phrases, for he used much
vehemence].

And long in mute affliction th’ Achaians’ sons were there;
198 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

At last said Diomedes, the strenuous in war:
“ Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men, 690
Would that you had not prayed to blameless Pelides then,
A thousand presents offering; he is haughty otherwise;
And now in him much higher you make presumption
rise.

At present let us leave him, whether he go or stay;

And he again will battle whenever points the way 695

His spirit in his bosom or when some god shall lead.

Yet come, and as I tell you do all of you give heed:

Now turn yourselves to slumber, and give your hearts
recourse

To food and wine abundant; for these are strength and
force.

But when rose-fingered Eos, the fair, appears again, 700

‘Draw quickly ’fore the vessels the horses and the men,

Exhorting; ’mid the foremost be you in battle dread.”

Thus he; and all the chieftains approved of what he

said,

Admiring much the speech of horse-tamer Diomed.

Then, ere they sought their quarters, they poured liba-
tions deep, 705

And there lay down for slumber and took the gift of sleep.

BOOK xX.

THE ADVENTURE OF DOLON.

Beside the ships the other chiefs of th’ Achaians slept

Through all the night unbroken, by soothing slumber
kept;

Yet Atrides Agamemnon, the people’s pastor kind,

Held not to pleasant slumber, having much care in mind.

As when the lord of Hera well-haired, with thunder’s
bale,

Prepares a mighty tempest, unspeakable, or hail,

Or snow, when the snow sprinkles the corn-fields near
and far,
BOOK X 199

Or else prepares the mighty mouth of all-bitter war;

Thus often in his bosom King Agamemnon groaned

From his heart’s profoundest measures, and inward
tremors owned. 10

As oft as to the Trojans’ wide plain his eyes were turned,

At the many fires he wondered which before high Ilion
burned,

And the noise of flutes and pipings and the tumult of the
men;

But when he saw the vessels and Achaian folk again,

The hairs of his head, full many, did he from their roots

dispart, 15
Enraged at Zeus, and greatly groaned in his mighty
heart.

And in his mind this counsel appeared the best to be:
To seek Neleian Nestor at once, and thus to see
If he with him might fashion some blameless deft design,
Which might ward off the evils of all the Danaan line. 20
He stood erect and gathered his tunic round his breast,
Clad his smooth feet with sandals of beauty manifest;
He then the dark red skin of a lion fierce and grand
Put on; it reached his ankles; he next took spear in hand.
And thus, too, Menelaos was seized by tremblings
drear, 25
Vor sleep upon his eyelids came not from heavy fear,
Lest the Argives suffer evil, who for his sake from far
Had crossed the sea to Troja, waging audacious war.
‘The skin of spotted leopard o’er his broad back he

spread,
Then raised the brazen helmet and placed it on his
head; 30

Thus being clad, his javelin he took in his stout hand,

And went to incite his brother who held supreme com-
mand

O’er all the Argives; honour divine to him they bare.

He found him while his shoulders he decked with armour

fair,
At the rear part of his vessel; and joy his coming
spread. 35

Then war-strong Menelaos, the first one, to him said:
200 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“Why thus, O cherished brother, do you your arms

endue?

Do you expect some comrade the Trojan ranks to view?

But very much I fear that no one will try this deed:

To spy on hostile warriors, since lone he must proceed 40

Beneath the night ambrosial; he must be bold, indeed.”

To him King Agamemnon in turn made answer due:

“‘ Zeus-nurtured Menelaos, there’s need for me and you

Of counsel good and prudent, to save or yet to shield

The Argives and the vessels, since Jove’s mind is changed
and steeled. 45

Sooth, he gives more attention to Hektor’s sacrifice.

For never did I hear of and ne’er saw with these eyes

A single man accomplish such marvels in one day

As Hektor, by Zeus cherished, has wrought to the dismay

Of the sons of the Achaians, with no aid divine be-
stowed, 50

Yet is no cherished offspring of a goddess or a god.

And works has he accomplished which, I think, will
many a care

And long give to the Argives; so many ills he bare

To the folk of the Achaians. But come now, let us call

Idomeneus and Ajax, running to the ships withal 55

In haste; and I to Nestor divine myself will show

And urge him on to action, if he desire to go

Tothesacred band of sentries and make there hisdemand.

And most will they obey him, for his own son has com-

mand :
Of the guardsmen, with Meriones, the armour-bearer
brave 60

Of Idomeneus, since highest command to them we gave.”
To him in turn made answer Menelaos, good in war:
“‘ How do you with these speeches commands and orders
bear?
Shall I remain there with them, waiting till you come on,
Or shall I run to meet you when I the work have

done?” 65
And him in turn then answered Agamemnon, king
of men:

““ Remain here lest we wander out of each other’s ken.
BOOK X 201

For many are the pathways which through the army lead.
But shout where’er you wander and bid them all take heed,
Naming each single warrior after his father’s kind, 70
And treat them all with honour, nor be puffed up in mind.
E’en we ourselves should labour, for to us great Zeus gave,
When we were born, this sorrow of oppression deep and
grave.”
Thus saying, he sent his brother and, ordering well,
bespoke,
But hastened after Nestor, the pastor of his folk; 75
And found him by his vessel all-sable and his tent
In his soft bed, and by him his varied arms were leant,—
His bucklers and two javelins and shining helmet’s span.
Near lay the varied baldrick which girded the old man
When he put on his armour for war which men de-
stroys, 80
Leading his folk; nor yielded to age’s fierce annoys.
And, rising on his elbow and lifting up his head,
He questioned in these phrases and to Atrides said:
“Who are you who through the vessels and host lone
pathway keep
Beneath night clad in darkness when other mortal
sleep? 85
[Or do you seek companions or to some guard proceed ?]
Speak out; come not in silence; of what do you have
need ?”
Then answered Agamemnon, the king of men elate:
“‘ Neleiades, O Nestor, th’ Achaians’ glory great,
Know Atrides Agamemnon, to whom beyond the rest go
Zeus sends continual labours while life is in my breast,
While my dear knees have motion. I err thus, since
sweet sleep
Upon my eyes delays not, and war and sorrows deep,
Which the Achaians suffer, a wasting care impart.
For I fear much for the Danaans, and IJ hold no constant

heart; 95
But am in mind astonished, and the heart leaps from
my breast,

And my glorious members tremble through weakness
manifest.
202 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

If aught you can accomplish (since sleep comes not to
ou),

Let us ‘one the sentries go down that we may view

If they, by labour wearied and overcome by sleep, —_ 100

Slumber, nor hold their watches, wrapped in oblivion
deep.

Yet eee sit near us, nor do we know aright,

Whether they have intention to battle in the night.”

To him Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, answered then:
“Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men, 105
Not certainly Zeus Counsellor on Hektor will bestow
All things which he has hoped for; yet he will give, I trow,
To combat greater labours, if e’er Achilles start
And from his rage consuming shall turn away his heart.
You will I follow gladly to wake the others here, 110
Odysseus and Tydides, illustrious with the spear,

And fleet Oilean Ajax and Phyleus’ valiant son.*

But let someone among you to call these heroes run;

Great Ajax, like a godhead, and Idomeneus, theKing.

For their vessels are the farthest, nor near the
gathering. 115

Though dear and much respected, Menelaos will I chide

(Though he with me be angered), and nothing will I hide,

Since thus he sleeps and singly permits you so to moil.

But now he ought to urge on the elders all to toil;

Since need has come upon us we can no more sustain.” 120

To him in turn responded Agamemnon, king of men:
“ Another time, O ancient, he may be blamed by you,
For often he is listless, nor cares to toil as due.

Yet not to sloth he yielded, nor heedlessness of mind,

But waited for my impulse and to my will inclined. 125

But much the first he woke me and stood a time by me,

And I sent him to summon those whom you wish to see.

Yet let us go and meet them ‘mid the guards before the
gate;

lor there did I admonish that the assembly wait.”

To him Gerenian Nestor, the horseman, answering

said: 130

“Thus no one of the Argives will be by anger led,

*Meges.
BOOK X 203

Nor disobey him urging nor his commands expressed.”
Thus saying, his ample tunic he put upon his breast;
And ‘neath his feet all-shining he bound his sandals fair;
And fastened with a buckle his cloak of purple rare, 135

Double, extending widely, a thick pile on its face.
He took his mighty javelin, pointed with the sharp brass,
And hastened to the ships of th’ Achaians brazen-clad.
And first of all Odysseus (a mind like Jove’s he had)
Gerenian horseman, Nestor, woke up from slumber
blind, 140
Vociferating loudly; the call soon reached his mind,
And he came from his quarters, and thus his words were
shown:
“Why by the ships in the army do you wander thus
alone
Through the long night ambrosial? Whence comes so
great a need?”

Gerenian horseman, Nestor, to him in answer said: 145
“Laertiades, Zeus-descended, Odysseus many-skilled,
Do not be wroth; such anguish all the Achaians has filled.
Yet follow, that another we from his sleep excite
To give us fitting counsel, if ’t is to fly or fight.”

Thus he; and from his quarters wily Odysseus

came, 150
His bright shield on his shoulders he placed and went
with them.

And next they sought the tents of Tydides Diomed,;
They found outside his quarters with all his arms be-

spread;

Around him slept his comrades with shield beneath the
head;

But their spears around were upright where they the
spike-end drove; 155

And afar the brass flung flashes like the fires of Father
Jove.

But the hero slept, and “neath him a wild bull’s hide
was spread;

And a carpet brightly shining was stretched beneath
his head,

Gerenian horseman, Nestor, stood by him and awoke;—
204 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

With heel, with foot he touched him and in reproaches

broke: 160
“Awaken, son of Tydeus, why night-long slumber
drain?

Do you not know the Trojans, on a high part of the plain,
Are near the ships, and small are the spaces which de-
tain?”
Thus he, and very quickly he* started up from rest;
And him in turn haranguing, with wingéd words ad-
dressed: 165
“You are harsh, old man, and never do you from
labour cease.
Why do you not the younger Achaians’ sons release,
‘That they each of the leaders to action now excite,
Going in all directions? But you are tireless quite.”
Gerenian horseman, Nestor, to him this answer
made: 170
“My friend, all these things truly and as is fit you said.
For I have blameless children and people many in all,
Each one of whom would hasten where there were need

to call;

But need, the worst and greatest, does the Achaians
hedge.

For now the die is standing upon a razor’s edge, 175

If, by th’ Achaians, destruction, all-sad, or life be won.—
Yet go now, rouse fleet Ajax and Meges, Phyleus’ son
(For you are much the younger), if pity for me guide.”
Thus he, and round his shoulders he* cast a lion’s hide,
Tawny and great; his ankles it reached; he* took his
spear. 180
And hastened, and the hero* led thence the others near.
And, when among the guardsmen assembled thick
they bare,
They did not find the leaders of the watchmen sleeping
there;
But all were sitting watchful with arms within their hold.--
And as the dogs guard sharply the sheep within a fold, 185
Hearing a beast ferocious, who from the wood descends
Passing along the mountains;—a mighty clamour blends’
*Diomed.
BOOK X 205

Of men and dogs against him; and slumber from them
flies;

In this way pleasant slumber was riven from the eyes

Of the guards of evil night-time; for always to the
plain 190

They turned to hear the Trojans coming on them amain.

The ancient joyed in seeing and cheered by thoughts ex-

ressed.
{And, when he had harangued them, with wingéd words
addressed :]
“ Thus now, dear sons, be watchful and sleep let no
one take,
Lest mockery come upon us, which the hostile warriors
make.” 195

Thus saying, the moat he passed through, and close to
him there came
The leaders of the Argives called in the council’s name.
Among them was Meriones and Nestor’s glorious son;
For they were called to counsel when the council had

begun.
They passed the sunken trench and sat down in a clear
place, 200

Where no bodies of the fallen were in the vacant space,
For there impetuous Hektor had turned back from the

field,

When he had slain the Argives, and when the night con-
cealed.

Then, sitting down together, words round the gathering
run;

And Gerenian horseman, Nestor, ’mid them discourse
begun: 205

“Friends, is there here some warrior, urged by his

mind aglow,

Who ’mid the great-souled Trojans may be inclined to go,

To see if he may capture some foe in wanderings borne,

Or seek among the Trojans some errant news to learn,

Of what they are consulting? Whether it be their
mood 210

To stay here by the vessels, but at a distance good,

Or go back to the city when th’ Achaians are subdued.
206 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Should he all this accomplish and come to us again
Unscathed, transcendent glory were his among all men;
And great would be the riches presented to hishand. 215
For each one of the chieftains who o’er the ships com-
mand
Would give a black sheep, female, with lambkin by her
side
(A matchless prize!), and ever would he at feast abide.”
Thus he; and all among them sat there full silently,
Till out spoke Diomedes, good at the battle cry: 220
“ Nestor, my heart and spirit manly impels me here
To go among the army of the Trojans who are near;
But if some other warrior wishes to follow me,
A greater inspiration and source of trust ’t would be.
One may note before the other (when two together go) 225
What is the better action; but if one only know,
His spirit may be slower, and weak may be his thought.”’
Thus spoke he; and full many to follow Diomed sought:
The two Ajaces wished it, servants of Ares’ throne,
Meriones also wished it, and greatly, Nestor’s son. 230
And Menelaos wished it, Atrides spear-renowned,
And eke Odysseus daring wished to seek the Trojan
ground,
For ever was audacious the mind within his breast.
The king of men, Atrides, them with these words ad-
dressed:
“ Tydides Diomedes, most gratefultomy mind, 235
Choose him to be your comrade to whom you are in-
clined,
The best of all those present; since many wish to go.
Nor you, in spirit modest, the braver man forego
From shame, and for companion the weaker one prefer,

Looking upon his lineage, or if he be kinglier.” 240
Thus spoke he; since for yellow Menelaos his fears
were high.

But once more spoke Diomedes, good at the battle cry:

“* Tf, sooth, on my companion you bid my choice be set,
How, now, can I Odysseus divine in aught forget ?
Whose heart and manly spirit with skill surpassing

move 245
BOOK X 207

In every kind of dangers by Pallas Athena’s love.
With him as my companion, e’en from the sparkling fire
We both would come back scathless, such skill does him
inspire.”
Odysseus, much-enduring, divine, in turn replied:
“Tydides, do not praise me too much, and do not

chide; 250
For th’ Argives know these matters which in your speech
appear.

But go we; night is waning, and coming morn is near;

The stars have journeyed onward, and more of night is
reft

Than two of its three portions; the third part yet is left.”

Thus saying, they clad themselves in their armour

>

dire as brave; 255
And war-strong Thrasymedes his two-edged falchion
gave

Tydides (by his vessel the chief had left his own),
And shield; and he a helmet to shield his head put on,
Of bull’s-hide, coneless, crestless, which is kataitux

named;
This shields the head from danger for blooming youths
unfamed. 260

And Merion gave Odysseus a quiver, sword and bow,
And placed the hide-made helmet upon the head below;
By many straps within it the helm was firmly braced,
Without, the snowy tushes of a white-tusked boar were

placed
Thick round it in a circle which showed them here and
there 265

Distributed full deftly; within soft felt it bare.

From Eleon, Amintor Hormenides’s home,

Autolykos had brought this when he robbed the spacious

dome;

He gave it to Kytherian Amphidamas to bear

With him to fair Skandia, who gaveto Molosthere 270

To be a xenial present. He gave to Merion,

His son; and, last, a shelter for Odysseus’ head it shone.
But after both the heroes in dreadful arms were dressed,

They hastened on their pathway and left there all the best.
208 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Pallas Athena sent them a heron on the right, 275
Near by the way they journeyed; they saw it not with
sight

Through the night wrapped in darkness, but heard the
clang it made;
The bird Odysseus gladdened, who to Athena prayed:

““ Give ear to me, O daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus,
Who stand beside me ever in all works perilous, 280
And I do not escape you when I move on my way.

Yet now again, Athena, befriend as most you may;
Grant us back to the vessels transcendent fame to bear,
And great works to accomplish to give the Trojans care.”

And next prayed Diomedes, good at the battle cry: 285

“ Hear me now, O Unconquered, daughter of Zeus Most
High,

Attend me as you followed Tydeus divine in fame

To Thebes, when for th’ Achaians a messenger he came.

And left by the Asopos th’ Achaians brazen-dressed,

And there to the Kadmeians a message mild ad-
dressed. 290

But when he journeyed backward he wrought deeds
great and rude,

With you, O heavenly goddess, who favouring by him
stood.

Thus now stand by me favouring and be my guard and
guide,

And I to you will offer a heifer, forehead wide,

A yearling, yet unmastered, whom never yoke con-
trolled. 295

Her I to you will offer, circling her horns with gold.”

Thus spoke they, praying; Pallas Athena heard them

thus.—

But when they supplicated the daughter of great Zeus,

They went on like two lions through black night’s solitude

Through slaughter and through corpses, through armour
and black blood. 300

The manly Trojans Hektor let not in slumber rest,
But bade his aids to summon to council all the best,

As many of all the Trojans as were chiefs and rulers
brave;
BOOK X 209

And, calling them together, he this wise counsel gave:
“Who is there that will promise to do this work for
me, 305
Urged by a mighty present ? The} pay enough shall He
For I will give two horses (with necks high-arched) and
car,
(Which best amid th’ Achaians’ swift-going vessels are),
To him who has the daring (and fame will him adorn)
To seek the rapid vessels and from their midst to learn 310
Whether the ships, as erstwhile, are guarded on the sands
Or if th’ Achaian warriors, o’ermastered by our hands,
Among themselves take counsel to steal away in flight,
Nor wish, worn by dire labour, to guard them through
the night.”
Thus spoke he; and a silence unbroken now begun. 315
There was amid the Trojans Dolon, Eumedes’ son;
The sire, a godlike herald, had gold and brass replete;
The son in form was evil, but sped with rapid feet.
And was among five sisters, Eumedes’ only son.
To Hektor and the Trojans he now a speech begun: 320
“ Hektor, my manly spirit and heart, too, urges me
To seek the rapid vessels and learn what there may be.
But come, hold out your scepter and to me truly swear
To give to me the horses and give with them the car,
With brass-work variegated, which great Pelides bear; 325
And I'll not disappoint you, nor be a seeker vain,
But go on through the army till by journeying I attain
The ship of Agamemnon, where the best may be this
night
To weave their plans in council, whether to fly or fight.”
Thus he; the prince the scepter took, giving the oath’s
accord. 330
“ Let Zeus himself be witness, Hera’s high-thundering
lord,

That none else of the Trojans shall mount these steeds
divine;

And I say that you shall ever in their full radiance shine.”

Thus he, but swore all vainly;* yet it urged the youth

to go.

*Because the promise was not performed.
210 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

At once upon his shoulders he placed his crooked bow; 335

And put upon the outside a fold of gray wolf’s hide,

And to his head a helmet of weasel-skin applied;

Then took up his sharp javelin, and from the army there

Went forward to the vessels. Yet was not doomed to bear

A message back to Hektor—But when he left the
crowd 340

Of men and horse, all eager he went upon the road.

Odysseus saw him coming and to Tydides said:

“Tn truth, this man, Diomedes, has from the army

sped;

I know not if our vessels he visits as a spy,

Or if to rob the bodies which scattered round us hie. 345

But let us first allow him to cross a span of plain,

Then we will rush upon him and seize on him amain;

And if in the swift contest he with his feet outstrips,

Aye turn him from the army and press him to the ships,

Rushing on him with javelin, lest he fly toward the

town.” 350
Thus saying, by the wayside they ’mid the dead bent
down.
But he ran by them quickly with heedlessness which
dulls;
And when he was as distant as furrows ploughed by
mules *

(For they in ploughing deep fallow to oxen are preferred),
Both chieftains rushed upon him;—he stood still when
he heard. 355
For he hoped within his spirit that Hektor ordered then
His comrades of the Trojans to call him back again.
But when he was the distance of a javelin’s cast or less,
He knew the hostile warriors, and moved in his distress
His rapid knees to flying; and both rushed in pursuit. 360
As two dogs, knowing hunting and armed with teeth acute,
A fawn or hare press ever on through a woody space;
And he runs on before them and clamours in the chase;
Thus Tydides and Odysseus, razer of cities high,
*This passage is very obscure. It has been explained
as the distance which mules gain on oxen in ploughing a
certain distance.
BOOK X 211

Kept him back from his people and drove him cease-

lessly. 365

But when he soon would mingle with the vessel’s guards,
in flight,

Athena nerved Tydides with strength and boundless
might,

That no one of the warriors of th’ Achaians brazen-
dressed,

Might boast that first he wounded and Tydides next
oppressed.

Rushing with spear upon him, strong Diomed ad-
dressed: 370

“Stop, or with spear I strike you; nor long will you

withstand,

I think, nor yet escape from high ruin from my hand.”
Thus he, and flung the javelin; with purpose missed

the man;

The spear’s point deftly polished o’er his right shoulder
ran

Into the earth; he trembled and stood there, pale with
fear, 375

And stammered, and the teeth in his mouth were chatter-
ing clear.

And, panting, they approached him and seized him with
their hands;
But he bespoke them, pouring his tear-drops on the sands:
“Take me a living captive, and I will ransom pay,
For brass and gold and iron well-wrought are in my
sway. 380
From them on you my father will boundless price bestow,
If he shall learn that living to th’ Achaian ships I go.”
Then Odysseus, many-planning, in answer thus re-
joined:
“* Be strong, and in no manner have fear of death in mind.
But come, and tell me plainly and let the truth be
known: 385
How thus amid the vessels from the host you came alone
Through the dark night, when other mortals to sleep are
led?
Did you come here to plunder the bodies of the dead ?
212 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Or did great Hektor send you to view each thing you
might
Amid the hollow vessels? Or did your mind incite ?” 390
And him, then, answered Dolon, while his members
shook amain:
“ Though I desired not, Hektor brought on me many
a bane,
Who said that he would give me the steeds with hoofs
entire,
Of Achilles, and his chariot varied with brazen fire.
He bade me through the sable and rapid night to go 395
Full near the hostile warriors, that I might find out so,
Whether the ships, as erstwhile, are guarded on the sands,
Or if th’ Achaian warriors, o’ermastered by our hands,
Among themselves take counsel to steal away by flight,
Nor wish, worn by dire labour, to guard them through
the night.” 400
Then Odysseus, many-planning, said, while a smile
inspired:
“In truth now, mighty presents your mind within de-
sired:
Warlike Aiakides’ horses; and they for mortal men
Are difficult to master and drive before the wain,
For another than Achilles whom a deathless mother
bore. 405
Yet come and tell this plainly, and tell it truly o’er:
Where did you now leave Hektor, the people’s stay and
guide,
Where lies his martial armour, where do his steeds abide ?
How de the other Trojans watches and tents provide?
[Of what are they consulting? Whether is it their
mood 410
To stay here by the vessels, but at a distance good,
Or go back to the city since th’ Achaians are subdued ?”]
To him in turn made answer Dolon, Eumedes’ son:
“‘ These matters very clearly will I to you make known.
Hektor is holding council by godlike Ilos’ tomb 415
With those who to the honour of counsellor have come,
Apart from all the tumult; but, hero, of the guard
You ask; none in the army are chosen watch and ward.
BOOK X 213

The Trojans by the watch-fires are those to whom’t is

need;
They wake and bid each other give to the watches
heed. 420
The far-called allies slumber; and leave the watchings
here

To Trojans, for their children and consorts are not near.”
To him, then, said in answer Odysseus, schemer deep:

“ Are they mixed with the Trojans, horse-taming, when

they sleep,

Or do they sleep asunder? Tell me that I may ken.” 425
To him responded Dolon, Eumedes’ offspring, then:

“To you will I full clearly all of these things expose.

Beside the sea are Karians and Paions, with bent bows,

And Leleges and Kaukons and Pelasgians divine.

To Thymbra all the Lykians and Mysians proud in-

cline, 430
And Phrygians, horse-taming, and Maionians, charger-
borne.—

But wherefore do you ask me each of these things in turn?
If you amid the army of the Trojans wish to fall,
The Thrakian new-comers are apart and last of all;
Among them is King Rhesos, the son of Eioneus. 435
I saw his beauteous coursers, most great, most glorious,
Equal to winds in swiftness and whiter than the snow;
His chariot was well-laboured with gold and silver’s glow;
And huge the arms and golden (a miracle to see),
Which he possessed in coming; they seemed not fit to be
Borne by men who are mortal, but by th’ immortal
gods. 440
Yet take me to the vessels, swift-going, your abodes,
Or bind me now and leave me here in the rigid chain,
That you may go and try me, if I speak true or vain.”
Then, gazing at him grimly, strong Diomed addressed:
“Harbour no thought to ’scape me, Dolon, within

your breast. 445
You brought to us good tidings when you came to our
hands.—

If now we should dismiss you or loose you from your

bands,
214 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To th’ Achaians, rapid vessels infuture you would fare,
Either to spy in secret or openly to war;
But if, by my hands mastered, you lose your life by
me, 450
No longer to the Argives will you annoyance be.”
Thus he; Dolon endeavoured to touch with his stout

hand

His chin to supplicate him*; he* rushed on with his
brand

And struck his neck 1’ the middle; the blade both tendons
crossed,

And, while he} yet was speaking, the head in dust was
tossed. 455

From his head they took the helmet, prepared from
weasel-hide,

The bent bow and great javelin and wolf-skin spreading
wide;

These to Athena Plunderer divine Odysseus bare

High in his hands to greet her, and spoke these words in

prayer:
“ Rejoice in these, O goddess, for you, the first of
all 460

Th’ immortals in Olympus do we, invoking, call;
Yet to the tents and horses of the Thrakians guide again.”
Thus he, and, from him raising on high, he placed

them then

Amid a tamarisk’s branches, and a lofty signal made,

By gathering reeds and branches of the tamarisk wide-
displayed; . 465

Lest they should err, returning through swift, black
night’s alarms.

Then both of them went forward through sable blood and
arms.

And, going, soon they came to the bands of Thrakian
men,

Who slept, fatigued by labour, and by them on the plain

Their beauteous arms were lying, in deftly ordered
course, 470

*Diomed. +Dolon.
BOOK X 215

Three-rowed; and by each warrior there was a yoke of horse.
And in the midst slept Rhesos; and by him his fleet steeds
Were bound by reins to the railing which round the
chariot leads,
And first Odysseus saw him and Diomedes showed:
“This is the man, Diomedes, and these the horses
good, 475
Which we heard of from Dolon, the warrior whom we
slew.
But come now, and bear forward your powerful strength
anew;
It seems you not to stand still, with arms; the horses free;
Or you may slay the warriors, and leave the steeds to me.”
Thus he; fierce-eyed Athena breathed in him strength

amain. 480
He killed those round about him; and from the men
sword-slain
There rose a piteous groaning; with blood earth red-
dened deep.—

And as a lion coming upon a flock of sheep
Or goats which are unguarded, attacks with evil thought;
Thus, then, the son of Tydeus the Thrakian warriors
sought 485
Till he had slain twelve heroes; Odysseus, counsel-skilled,
Stood by, and whom Tydides had with his falchion killed,
Him great Odysseus, taking by foot, drew back aplain,
Thinking within his mind that the steeds with splendid

mane
Would pass on through them lightly, nor in their spirits
fret 490

By going o’er the bodies; for they were unwonted yet.

But when now to the monarch great Tydeus’ son arrived,

Him, being the thirteenth, panting, of sweet life he de-
prived;

For a dream of evil purport had stood above his head.

[That night, like Oineus’ offspring, by Athena’s counsel
sped.] 9

Meanwhile Odysseus steadfast loosens the whole-hoofed
steeds,

Binds with the reins together and from th’ assembly leads,
216 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And with his bow drives onward, since the scourge which
shines afar,

He did not think to take from the variegated car;

Then whistles as a signal to Diomed divine. 500

But he thought of remaining, in bolder deeds to shine:
Whether to seize the chariot where the varied armour lay,
Drawing by the pole, or, raising on high, to bear away;
Or whether other Thrakians he should deprive of life.
While these thoughts in his spirit revolved in dubious

strife, 505
Athena, standing near, said to Diomed divine:

“Son of great-minded Tydeus, to your return incline
Toward the hollow vessels, lest there in flight you run,
Or lest some other godhead may urge the Trojans on.”

Thus she; he knew the voice of the goddess speaking

so, 510
And quick the car ascended; Odysseus lashed with bow;
And to the rapid vessels of the Achaians they fared.

Yet silver-bowed Apollo had kept no idle guard,

But when he saw Athena with Tydeus’ son intent,
Wroth with her, to the Trojans’ wide-spreading host

he went, 515
And there roused up Hippokoon, the Thrakians’ coun-
sellor deep,

A cousin brave of Rhesos. And he leapt up from sleep;

When he saw the space deserted where the swift coursers
stood,

And warriors palpitating in slaughter and in blood,

He wailed aloud and called on his comrade dear,

by name. 20

But aclamour’mid the Trojans, and a boundless tumult
came,

And they all ran together and viewed the bold deeds
wrought,

Which had been done by heroes who the hollow ships had
sought.

But when they reached the place where great Hektor’s
spy was slain,

‘Odysseus, by Zeus cherished, the swift steeds stopped
again; 525
BOOK X 217

And earthward leapt Tydides, and to Odysseus’ hands
Consigned the bloody trophies, then mounted from the
sands.
And he lashed on the horses, they flew, to speed inclined,
[On to the hollow vessels, for ’twas grateful to their mind].
And Nestor first the tumult heard, and the chiefs ad-
dressed: 53°
“O friends, ye Argive leaders and rulers manifest,
Shall I speak hes or truly? My mind bids me to tell.
The sounds of rapid horses fall on my ears full well.
Would that at once Odysseus and powerful Diomed
Might drive some whole-hoofed horses forth from the
Trojans led. 535
Yet in my mind full gravely I fear me lest the best
Of th’ Argives suffer evil from the Trojan host infest.”
Not yet the whole was spoken when they themselves
came there,
At once to earth descended, and glad indeed they were,
With right hand they saluted and many a friendly
word, 540
Gerenian horseman, Nestor, these questions first pre-
ferred:
“Come, tell me, famed Odysseus, th’ Achaians’ great-
est boast, f
How did you seize these horses, going ’midthe Trojan host ?
Did some god give them to you, who met you as you run?
For, sooth, they much resemble the bright rays of the
sun. 545
For always with the Trojans I mix, and I am bold
To say that I remain not by the ships, though warrior old;
But these resplendent coursers I saw not, knew not yet.
I think that they were given by some deity you met.
For Zeus, the cloud-compelling, loves both you heroes
thus, 550
And fierce-eyed Athena, daughter of aegis-bearing Zeus.
Odysseus, many-planning, to him responded thus:
“* Great glory to th’ Achaians, Neleian Nestor, with ease
A god who wished had given us better steeds than these,
Since the gods are far the better. These steeds are
Thrakian bred, 555
218 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

O ancient, and new-comers, to whom your questions led;

And he who was their master was slain by Diomed;

By him his twelve companions are laid, and all the best.

We killed a spy, the thirteenth, near by the ships op-
pressed,

Whom Hektor and the other illustrious Trojans meant560

To be a dextrous searcher though all our army sent.”

Thus saying, the moat he drove o’er the steeds with

hoofs entire,

Exulting, and th’ Achaians came all in glad desire.

But when the well-wrought quarters of Diomed they
found,

Beside the horses’ mangers with well-cut straps they
bound 565

The steeds, where the fleet coursers of Diomed were
found,

Eating of wheat all-dulcet. But in his vessel’s stern

The bloody spoils of Dolon Odysseus placed in turn,

That they a sacred offering at Athena’s shrine might be.

They washed the sweat abundant from their bodies in

the sea, 570
When they had entered in it, and from legs and neck and
thighs.

But when the wave of ocean the sweat’s abundant prize
Had washed from off their bodies, they felt refreshed in

heart,

And, going to baths well-polished, were cleansed in
every part.

Both bathed and were anointed with oil full rich and
fine, 575

And sat down to the banquet; and to Athena divine,
Drawing from the full crater, they poured out dulcet wine.
BOOK XI 219

THE EXPLOITS OF AGAMEMNON.

Eos left her couch of slumber beside Tithonos dight,
That she to the immortals and mortals might bear light.
But mid th’ Achaians’ swift vessels Zeus savage Discord
sent,

Who in her hands was holding relentless war’s portent.

She stood upon Odysseus’ black vessel long and wide, 5

And was there in the middle to shout to either side;

Either to mighty Ajax,’ the Telamonian’s, tent,

Or even to Achilles’; for they the farthest went

To draw their equal vessels upon the barren sands,

Confiding in their valour and the stoutness of their
hands, Io

And, standing there, the goddess cried shrill and loud
and dire;

In the heart of each Achaian she cast great strength and
fire,

That they might war forever and eternal battle bear.

[At once the war was sweeter to them than back to fare

Upon the hollow vessels to their dear fatherland.] 15

Then the son of Atreus shouted to the Argives his

command

To gird them, and he put on his mail of brass, which
shone,

And, first, about his legs he his beauteous greaves put on

(Well-joined with silver buckles), and next around his
breast

The corselet which once Kinyras had given to him as
guest. 20

For a great fame came to Kupros, because th’ Achaians
to Troy

Were about to sail in vessels; to give the monarch joy

He gave this. Of black kyanos* ten bars were woven in,

And twelve more bars were golden, and twenty were of
tin;

*An unknown mineral.
220 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And three kyanian serpents rose up on either side 25
Toward the neck, like ratnbows which Kronion glorified
Among the clouds—a marvel to speech-dividing men.
And round about his shoulders he hung his falchion then;
Its golden studs shone brightly; but all the sheath around
Was wrought of radiant silver by golden strap-work
bound. 30
He took his shield, man-covering, strong, many-dedal, fair,
Which, running round its margin, ten golden circles bare;
And on it twenty bosses were wrought of snowy tin,
And one of sable kyanos the mid space was within.
And Gorgon crowned the buckler (whose monstrous eye-

balls sear), 35
Gazing with horrid glances, and there were Flight and
Fear.

The belt was made of silver; and there upon it rolled
A serpent of wrought kyanos, whose three heads’ twisted

fold

Grew from one neck. The helmet, surrounded by a
cone,

Four-knobbed and decked with horsehair, upon his head
was thrown; 40

The crest above the helmet nodded with dreadful look.—
‘Two sharp and valid javelins, pointed with brass, he took;
And from itself to heaven the brass sent sparkling fire;
And Hera and Athena replied with thunder dire,

And honoured thus the monarch of Mukenai, rich in

gold. 45
And every chief commanded his charioteer to hold

His horses in good order when he came to the fosse;

But themselves, arrayed in armour, rushed eagerly to
cross,

And there a quenchless clamour rose up before the dawn.

The chiefs before the horsemen about the trench were
drawn 50

In order; and the horsemen, a little way behind.

But Kronides amid them a tumult ill designed,

And sent from the high ether dews wet with blood and
dole,
BOOK XI 221

For he thought to send to Hades full many a mighty soul.
On the other hand, the Trojans on a hill upon the
Jain
Round Polydamas all-blameless and great Hektor drew
their train, ,
And Zneas whom the Trojans celestial honour gave,
And the three sons of Antenor, Polybos, Agenor brave,
And Akamas all-youthful who seemed a god revealed.
But Hektor ’mid the foremost bore his all-equal
shield.— 60
As when among the vapours appears a baleful star,
All-shining, then is hidden by the shadowy clouds which
bar;
Thus Hektor in the vanguard among the first was known,
Then came among the hindmost; and all in brass he shone
Like the lightning of the Father, of aegis-bearing Jove. 65
The Trojans and Achaians against each other strove
As the reapers ’gainst each other upon a rich man’s field,
Cut swaths of wheat or barley, and thick handfuls fall
and yield;
Thus slew they one another nor thought of baleful flight;
And like wild wolves they rushed on with equal heads in
fight. 70
And baneful Eris gladdened at seeing what they wrought,
For, of the gods, she only was with them while they
fought.
No other gods were present, but all in quiet sate
Within their lofty mansions, where to each one a great
And beauteous house was builded upon Olympus’

fold.— 75
On Kronion, dark-clouds-gathering, each one reproaches
rolled;

Because he wished the Trojans to give illustrious name.

The sire did not regard them but, exulting in his fame,

Drew back from all the others and took apart his seat,

Watching the Trojan city and the Achaian fleet, 80

And the flash of brazen lightning and the slain and those
who slew.

While yet the morn was passing, and the sacred day-

time grew,
222 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

So long the shafts struck both sides, so long the people
fell;
What hour the lusty woodman prepares his evening meal
Amid the mountain passes, and his hands are dulled in
zeal, 85
Cutting great trees, his spirit by satiety is pressed,
And a wish for food all-dulcet lays hold upon his breast;
That hour the Danaans broke through the ranks by
bravery,
Exhorting their companions who in the ranks might be.
And first King Agamemnon among the foemen broke, go
And slew a man, Bienor, the pastor of his folk,
Himself, then his companion Oileus, horseman good.
Who leapt down from the horses and firmly ’gainst him
stood.
As Bienor rushed straight forward, he* struck with the
sharp spear
The forehead; nor the vizor, brass-heavy, warded
here; 95
That and the bone it passed through, and all the hidden
brain
Was scattered; he was mastered as he rushed on amain.
And king of men, Atrides, left them with bosoms bare,
When he stripped off their tunics and left them lying
there.
He passed on to slay Isos and Antiphos elate; 100
They were two sons of Priam—spurious, legitimate—
And both were in one chariot; the spurious, charioteer;
And Antiphos illustrious battled by his compeer.
Them both in Ida’s passes Achilles once had bound
With osier twigs; while tending their flocks of sheep he
found, 105
And loosed them for a ransom. Yet now Atrides here,
Wide-ruling Agamemnon, struck Isos with his spear
Above the bosom’s mamma, but struck close by the ear
Antiphos with his falchion and cast him from the car.
He knew them and he hastened to take their armou1
fair; 110
For by the rapid vessels he knew them well before,
*Agamemnon.
BOOK XI 223

When fleet-of-foot Achilles from the hights of Ida bore.

And as a lion lightly takes with his potent teeth

A fleet hind’s tender offspring and grinds amain beneath,

(When he seeks his lair), and takes thus its tender life
away ;— 115

Though she be very near him, she cannot aid nor stay;

For she at once is seized by a tremor all-intense,

And rushes through the forest and the oak groves dark
and dense,

Speeding along and sweating from the powerful beast’s
attack;

Thus no one of the Trojans could fling the ruin back, 120

Yet themselves were by the Argives repulsed and turned
to flight.

He then attacked Pisander and Hippolochos, brave

in fight,

Sons of Antimachos warlike, who erst, receiving gold

Of Paris, splendid present, did most of all withhold

Helen from Menelaos, with hair like yellow gold. 125

Wide-ruling Agamemnon for this his two sons felled

(Who both were in one chariot, and the rapid steeds
impelled);—

For the guide-reins brightly shining from their powerful
hands had fled,

And both were in confusion; and, like a lion dread,

Atrides rushed upon them; they prayed him from ‘the
car: 130

“Take us alive, Atrides, and worthy ransom bear;

For Antimachos’s mansions full many possessions hold,

Of brass and much wrought iron as well as stores of gold.

From these on you our father will boundless gifts bestow,

If he shall learn that, living, to th’ Achaians’ ships we

”

g0. 135
Thus weeping, wih soft speeches, did they address the
king;

But he to them responded in accents withering:

“If, now, you are the sons of Antimachos war-skilled,
Who in the Trojans’ council bade Menelaos be killed,
(When with Odysseus godlike ambassador he’d come) 140
And wished not to th’ Achaians again to send him home;
224 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Now shall you pay the price of your father’s crime por-
found.”

He said, and flung Pisander from the horses to the
ground,

With spear his bosom striking; he lay supine on earth;

And next he slew Hippolochos when he to earth leapt

forth, 145
Cutting off his neck with falchion and cutting off his
hands;

He flung the head like boulder to whirl amid the bands,

And left.—Where most the phalanx was scattered on the
plain,

He rushed and eke the other well-greaved Achaian train.

Then footmen slaughtered footmen who fled by Fates’

command, 150

And horsemen slaughtered horsemen, slaying with brass
in hand;

(And from the plain beneath them the dust-cloud rose
on high,

Which the sounding hoofs of horses had driven to the
sky).

But aye King Agamemnon among the foremost shone,

And ever slew in following and urged the Argives on. 155

As when a fire destroying falls on a close-set wood;

And whirling tempests bear it on with a force renewed,

And trees fall, roots and branches, urged by the rush of
fire;

Thus before King Agamemnon Atrides’ fury dire

Fell the heads of flying Trojans; many high-necked

coursers bare 160.

Onward their rattling chariots through all the ranks of
war,

Their blameless lords desiring; but these lay on the
earth,

More grateful to the vultures than the wives beside their
hearth.

But Zeus drew Hektor out of the dust and javelin’s

flood,

And from the human slaughter and tumult and the
blood; 165
BOOK XI 225

Atrides followed after and loud the Danaans cheered.—

But the Trojans sought the tomb of old Dardanides
revered,

Of Ilos, which in mid plain by the forest fig-tree stood,

Desirous of the city; Atrides aye pursued

With shouts; his hands unvanquished with dust and gore

were stained.— 170
But when the Skaian portals and the beech-tree they*
attained,

There at length they stood and waited those scattered in
their train;

But these were yet a-flying, like oxen, on the plain,

Whom a lion frightens, coming in the blackest of the

night—
Frights all—for high destruction the fated one will
blight; 175

The neck of this he crushes first with his powerful teeth,

Then laps up all the entrails and the blood which flows
beneath;

Thus followed them Atrides, King Agamemnon dread,

And ever slew the hindmost; and ever thus they fled;

And many from their chariots fell down supine and

prone 180
*Neath the hands of Agamemnon; for much with spear
he shone.

But when they came anear to the lofty wall and town,
The Sire of men and godheads, coming from heaven, sat
down
On the highest peaks of Ida, rill-rich, and in his hands
Held lightning, and to Iris, gold-winged, gave his com-
mands: 185
“* Come, speed now, rapid Iris, Hektor with this invoke:
While he sees Agamemnon, the pastor of the folk,
Rushing among the foremost and breaking ranks of men,
So long let him bear backward, but urge the others then
To war with hostile warriors amid the powerful fight. 190
But when, by javelin wounded or struck by arrow dight,
Atrides mounts his chariot, I will give to Hektor strength
To slay till to the vessels well-banked, he come at length;

*The Trojans.
226 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And the sun sinks in the waters, and the sacred shades
bear sway.”

Thus he; and wind-swift Iris him did not disobey. 195
She went from Ida’s mountains to sacred Ilion,

And found there god-like Hektor, brave-minded Priam’s
son,

Standing amid the horses and chariots deftly-made;

Then, standing close beside him, swift-footed Iris said:

“ Hektor, O son of Priam, equal to Zeus in mind, 200
Zeus Sire has sent me hither to tell what he designed.
So long as Agamemnon, pastor of folk, you find
Rushing among the foremost and breaking ranks of men,
So long avoid the battle, but urge the others then
To fight the hostile warriors amid the powerful fight. 205
But, when by javelin wounded or struck by arrow dight,
He leaps upon his chariot, then Zeus will give you strength
To slay till to the vessels, well-banked, you come at length;
And the sun sinks to the waters, and the sacred shades

bear sway.”

When she had spoken, Iris, swift-footed, went

away. 210
But Hektor from his chariot in arms leapt to the earth,
And, brandishing sharp javelins, through all the ranks
went forth,
Urging them on to combat, and roused a battle rude.
And they were turned from flying, and ’gainst th’ Acha-
ians stood;
On the other side, the Argives their phalanxes made
strong, 215
And stood, renewing battle; Agamemnon rushed along,
The first, and wished to combat by far the first of all.

Now tell to me, ye Muses, who hold th’ Olympian hall,
Who first King Agamemnon came to antagonize,

If of the native Trojans or the renowned allies. 220

Antenor’s son, Iphidamas, great and of valour deep,
Was bred in fertile Thrakia, mother of many sheep;
And Kisseus in his mansions reared while he needed care,
(The father of his mother, Theano, with cheeks fair).
But when he now the measure of glorious manhood

spanned, 225
BOOK XI 227

Kisseus at home detained him and gave his daughter’s
hand.

But married, from the bridal, hearing th’ Achaians’ fame,

With twelve bow-curving vessels, which followed him,
he came.

He left his equal vessels within Perkoté’s bay,

And, going as a footman, to Ilion bent his way; 230

And he against Atrides, King Agamemnon, went.

When they came near together, upon each other bent,

In sooth, Atrides missed him; his spear was turned aside.

But Iphidamas struck the baldrick below the corselet
wide;

In his strong hand confiding, the javelin on he bore; 235

Yet not the all-varied girdle it pierced, but far before

It struck against the silver, and its point was turned like
lead.

Wide-ruling Agamemnon seized this with hand out-
spread

And, raging like a lion, wrested it from his hand,

And struck his neck with falchion and loosed his mem-
bers grand. 240

Thus he, unhappy, falling, in brazen sleep was laid

Far from his wedded consort (bearing his city aid);

And knew naught of her favours though much he gave
for her;

He gave a hundred oxen, and next he promise bare

For goats and sheep a thousand, whose countless num-
bers filled 245

His fields. But now Atrides, King Agamemnon, killed,

And bore to the Achaians his armour fair and sheen.

But now as Koon saw it, illustrious ’mid men,
Antenor’s first begotten, a sorrow’s powerful spell
Veiled with a cloud his vision, because his brother fell. 250
Unknown to Agamemnon divine, he took his stand
With spear oblique, and wounded him in the middle hand,
Below the elbow; through it the bright spear’s point held

then.
And shivered when he felt it Agamemnon, king of men;
Yet thus he did not cease from the war and battle
dread. 255
228 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But rushed amain on Koon, holding his spear wind-fed.*
But Iphidamas, his brother, and of his father born,
Koon drew by the foot and hastened, calling all the best
to turn.—

Him, drawing to the Trojans, beneath the bossy shield,
With brass spear Agamemnon struck down upon the field;
And, standing o’er Iphidamas cut off his head amain. 260
And there Antenor’s offspring, by King Atrides slain,
Fulfilling fate, descended to enter Hades’ dome.

But when he to the other orders of men had come,
He fought with spear and falchion and with huge stones

he found,

While yet his blood was heated and gushed free from the
wound; 26

But when the wound was stiffened and the blood dried up
at length,

Sharp pains came on and withered divine Atrides’
strength.

As when sharp pangs a woman in labour harshly hold,
Which her the Ilithyiae, who watch o’er births, have told
(Who are high Hera’s daughters and bitter pains un-
fold); 270
Such was the piercing anguish which held Atrides here.—
He leapt upon his chariot and bade the charioteer
Drive to the hollow vessels; for he grieved in heart and
hands,
And shouted to the Danaans full loudly his commands:
“O friends, who of the Argives the chiefs and rulers
are, 275
Keep from the ocean vessels the savage din of war,
Since me wise Zeus permits not to battle all the day.”
Thus he; the fair-maned horses his driver lashed away
Upon the hollow vessels; both, not unwilling, fled;
Their breasts with foam was covered, and dust beneath
was spread; 280
And the worn king from battle the coursers bore afar.—
When Hektor knew Atrides had turned away from war.
The Lykians and the Trojans he urged with loud com-
mand:

*Swift.
BOOK XI 229

= eee Lykians, Dardans who battle hand to
and,
Be heroes, friends, remember the force of rushing
might; 285
Their bravest chief has left them; and me great fame in
fight
Zeus Kronides has given; now your steeds with hoofs
entire
Drive straight against the Danaans, that you great
fame acquire.”
Thus saying, the strength and spirit of each he roused
to dare.—
As when some hunter rouses his white-toothed dogs to
war 290
Against some forest monster—a lion or wild boar;
Thus did Hektor, son of Priam, equal to Ares, pour
The mighty-minded Trojans against th’ Achaian train.
Himself amid the foremost went on in high disdain,
And fell among the warring like a falling hurricane, 295
Which, from above descending, drives on the violet seas.
Who was the first and latest Hektor Priamides
Slew in the rush of battle, when great Zeus glory gave ?
Asaios first, Autonoos and next Opites brave,
Dolops, the son of Klytis, Oros, Opheltios, 300
With Agelaos, Aisymnos and war-strong Hipponoos.
He killed these Danaans leaders and, next, a multitude;
As when swift Zephyr lashes the clouds of Notos rude,
Striking with mighty whirlwind; and many swelled

waves roll fast, shell
And high the foam is driven hy the wandering tempest’s
blast; , 305

Thus, many heads of warriors before great Hektor fell.
Then had there been destruction and deeds inevitable,
And now among the vessels th’ Achaian host had fled,
Had not Odysseus called to Tydides Diomed:
“Why do we lose, Tydides, the thought of rushing
might ? 3I0
Dear friend, come here beside me and stand by me in fight;
For if helm-glancing Hektor take the ships ’t were scandal
dread.”
230 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Then powerful Diomedes to him in answer said:
“ Sooth, I will stay and suffer, but of little use ’t will be,
Since cloud-gathering Zeus the Trojans prefers in

victory.” 315
Thus he, and cast Thymbraios from his chariot to the
earth,
With spear his left breast striking; but Odysseus great
cast forth

Molion, like a godhead, th’ attendant of that king.
And there they left them lying, since they’d stopped their

combating.
Then both, going through the battle, confused and
mingled all; 320

As when two boars in fury on dogs who hunt them fall;
Thus, rushing back upon them, these gave the Trojans
death;
And those who fled from Hektor divine, in joy took
breath.
They took two chiefs with chariot, who were their
people’s best,
Sons of Perkosian Merops, who far beyond the rest 325
Knew auguries, nor suffered his children to evade
To war, destroying heroes; but they in naught obeyed,
And came without his knowledge; for the fates of black
death led.
And then, in truth, Tydides, spear-famous Diomed,
Bereft of life and spirit and took their armour good. 330
But Odysseus both Hippodamas and Hypirochos subdued.
And there the battle equal for them Kronion drew,
Gazing from Ida downward; and they each other slew.
But in the hip Tydides now wounded with his spear

Agastrophos the hero, son of Paion; for not near 335
Him were his steeds for flying; and much he erred in
mind.

For afar his servant held them, while he on foot declined

Through all the foremost warring till he lost his precious
life.

But Hektor in the orders knew soon and rushed to strife

Against them, loudly shouting; and the Trojans followed
him. 340
BOOK XI 231

And seeing him, shook Tydides, good at the war-cry grim;
And he at once Odysseus, who stood near him, addressed:
“This ruin rolls upon us, Hektor with strength infest;
But come, let us await him and ward, remaining here.”
Thus he, and lightly shaking, sent his long-shadowed
spear 345
And struck (and did not miss him, for his aim was at the
head),
On the summit of the helmet; but brass from brass was
shed,
Nor reached the skin all-beauteous; for the helmet’s
ward was brave,
Three-fold and lofty-crested, which Apollo Phoebus gave.
And Hektor ran back quickly and mingled with his
band; 350
And fell on his knees and stood there, held up by his
strong hand
Braced on the earth supporting; and black night veiled
his eyes.
While now Tydides followed his javelin’s energies
Far ’mid the formost warring, where it was fixed in earth,
Hektor his breath recovered and on his car leapt forth 355
And drove amid the concourse and thus fate sable fled.
But, rushing on with javelin, strong Diomedes said:
“ Again, O dog, you fly from your death; but evil sore
Neared, though Apollo Phoebus guarded your life once

more
(Whom you are wont to pray to, going ’mid the javelins’
play). 360

Yet, if again I meet you, I certainly will slay,

If any of the godheads may be allied with me.

But now I war with others, whoever they may be.
Thus spoke he, and Paionides, famed with the spear,

he slew. \

But Alexander, husband of well-haired Helen, drew 365

His bow against Tydides, the people’s pastor brave;

He* lurked behind the column which men made o’er the

rave

Of Ilos, son of Dardan, the people’s chief of old.
*Paris.

”
232 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But Diomed took the corselet of Agastrophos all-bold,

All-varied, from his bosom, and from his body took 370

His shield and heavy helmet. Now Alexander struck,

(His bow’s horn drawing deftly) his right foot where it
spanned,

And in no manner vainly the shaft fled from his hand;

And through it went the arrow and fixed itself in earth.

But he* with joyful laughter from ambuscade leapt
forth 375

- And vented idle boasting and to Tydides said:
“You by my shaft are wounded; not vain my arrow

fled,

Would that in flank it struck you and took away your life.

For in this way the Trojans might breath from evil strife,

Who fear you as the bleating goats fear a lion dread.” 380

To him, without a tremor, strong Diomedes said:

** Bowman and rude insulter, illustrious with the bow,

A wantoner with maidens, if ever you shall show

Yourself in arms against me, your bow will not avail,

Nor yet your many arrows; but now while you assail 385

My foot, you vainly glory. It gives me no annoy,

As if a woman struck me or an unheeding boy.

The coward’s shaft is feeble, and does not injure much.

I bear another weapon, and if it slightly touch,

It speeds, a piercing javelin, and carries death forlorn; 390

The wife of such a warriorf has both cheeks stained and

torn,

His children wander orphans; he reddens deep the
ground

With blood, and rots; more vultures than women gather
round.”

Thus spoke he; and Odysseus, spear-famed, came near
and joined,
And stood before, protecting, while heft sat down be-

hind 395
And pulled out the swift missile from his foot, but pangs
severe

Thrilled him. His car ascending, he bade his charioteer
Drive to the hollow vessels, for he at heart was pained.

*Paris. One struck by Diomed’s spear. {Diomedes.
BOOK XI 233

But spear-renowned Odysseus alone of all remained,
Since no one of the Argives stood by; for all had fled; 400
And to his own great spirit, heaving a groan, he said:

“O me, what do I suffer! ’T were ill for me to fly,
Fearing the crowds about me; but it were worse if I
Were seized alone; the others great Zeus to flight inclined.
Yet why I am revolving these things within my mind ? 405
For well I know that cowards desert the battle brand;
But who is brave in battle, it much behooves to stand
Strongly amid the warring; though wounds he feels or

brings.”

While he in mind and spirit was thinking of these things,
So long the battle orders of bucklered Trojans pressed, 4.10
And pushed him to the middle, enclosing thus their pest.
As dogs and young men blooming a savage boar beset,
Who in a dense-set thicket his snowy teeth has whet
Within his jaws recurving,and his teethgnash loudandfree,
Yet they await his coming, though terrible he be; 415
Thus, then, around Odysseus, Zeus-loved, the Trojans bore.
He first high Diopites above the shoulder tore,

Rushing with the sharp javelin; and afterwards he killed
Both Ennemos and Thoon and, as he leapt afield

Out of his car, Chersidamas; beneath his bossy shield 420
He* struck him ’neath the navel with spear; in dust he lay,
Clutching earth with his fingers. Odysseus turned away
And wounded with his javelin Charops Hippasides,
Who was the brother of Sokos, of highborn ancestries.
But Sokos came to aid him, Sokos, a godlike man; 425
He stood, approaching closely, and this discourse began:

“O many-praised Odysseus, insatiable of pain
And toil, to-day you glory o’er two Hippasidae slain
(Destroying two such heroes, spoiling their arms in strife),
Or you, struck by my javelin, shall lose your precious

life.” 430
Thus saying, at th’ equal buckler his mighty spear he
sent,

And through the shining buckler the rapid javelin went;
And the many-dedal corselet of the warrior was transfixed;
And all the flesh it tore off from the ribs, but was not mixed

*Odysseus.
234 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

With the entrails of the hero; for Pallas willed it not. 435
And Odysseus knew the missile had reached no fatal spot,
And, stepping back, to Sokos in turn these words ad-
dressed:
“Unhappy one, high ruin to you has closely pressed.
°T is true that you have stopped me from fighting those of
Troy;
But I this ee destruction and sable fate’s annoy 440
Will give you (I affirm it), o’ermastered by my spear;
And you will give me glory, your soul to Hades drear.”
Thus he; but Sokos turned and in flight went back
again;
But in his back, while turning, the spear was fixed amain
Midway between the shoulders, and through his breast it
sped. 445
He fell with crash resounding; divine Odysseus said:
“O Sokos, son of Hippasos, steed-tamer, brave in war,
The end of death has reached you, nor did you fly afar.
Unhappy one, your father’s and honoured mother’s care
In death shuts not your eyelids, but savage birds will

tear, 450
Flapping you with dense pinions, hovering above their
rey.

But, when I die, th’ Achaians divine will honour pay.”
Thus-saying, the valid javelin of Sokos brave he drew
Out of the bossy buckler and from his body, too.
The blood rushed when the javelin was drawn, and wrung
his soul_—

459
When the great-minded Trojans saw Odysseus’ black
blood roll,
They exhorted one another, and all rushed forth ’gainst
him.

But he receded ever and called his comrades grim;

Three times he called as loudly as e’er man’s head befalls;

Thrice Mars-loved Menelaos heard him and knew his

calls; 460

At once great Ajax nearing, he with these words bespoke:
“ Zeus-born, Telamonian Ajax, the pastor of the folk,

The vo'ce of bold Odysseus has come upon my ears;

As if the Trojans pressed him alone the sound appears,
BOOK XI 235

And hold him there surrounded ’mid the battle well-
arrayed. 465
But let us seek the tumult; for it is best to aid.
I fear that, ’mid the Trojans, he suffer evil grim,
Though brave, and that the Danaans grieve much, de-
prived of him.”
Thus saying, he went forward, and next the godlike

man.
They found Zeus-loved Odysseus; round him the Tro-
jans ran 470

As run, on mountain summits, the tawny jackals round
A stag with spreading antlers who is stricken by a wound,
Which a man has made by arrow sent onward from his
bow;
Flying with feet it ’scapes him while the blood is warm in
flow,
And the knees have power of motion; but with the swift
shaft’s wear, 475
The raw-devouring jackals him in the mountains tear,
Among the shady thickets; but if a daimon leads
A lion fierce, the jackals fly frightened, and he feeds;
And thus around Odysseus, cunning and deft in war,
Many strong Trojans gathered; but with his spear
afar 480
The hero rushed and warded from him the cruel hour.
Ajax came near him, bearing his buckler like a tower,
And stood by him; the Trojans fled as their fear allowed.
And warlike Menelaos meanwhile led from the crowd,
Holding his hand; his servants drove his horses near

anon. 485
But Ajax charged the Trojans and slew the spurious
son,—

Doryklos, son of Priam, and wounded Pandokos,
Lysander and Pylartes, and wounded Pyrasos.
As when a brimming river with torrents floods the plain,
Borne downward from the mountains with Zeus’s heavy
rain, 490
And many a withered oak-tree and many a pine bears free,
And casts its mud and driftwood upon the barren sea;
Thus, then, illustrious Ajax pursued the rout and slew
236 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The horses and the warriors. For not yet Hektor knew;

Since in the farthest battle to left the fight he bare 495

By the river’s banks, Skamander’s; and most abundant
there

Fell the heads of warring heroes; and rose a quenchless cry

Around Idomeneus warlike and Nestor great and high.

And Hektor mingled with them and wrought achieve-
ments vast

With horsemanship and javelin and the ranks of youth
o’ercast. 500

But the divine Achaians had not receded there,

If Alexander, husband of Helen with fair hair,

Had not stayed Machaon’s warring, the pastor of the folk;

But he* with three-barbed arrow in the right shoulder
struck,

And for him trembled greatly th’ Achaians breathing
strength, 505

Lest the foe should force the warring and slay the chief at
length.

Idomeneus full quickly spoke thus to Nestor divine:

“Neleian Nestor, glory great to th’ Achaian line,
Come, mount upon your chariot, let Machaon mount

beside,
And with the whole-hoofed horses to the ships most
swiftly ride. 510

For a healer has the value of many other men.
[To cut from flesh the arrows and use drugs soothing pain.]
Thus he; Gerenian horseman, Nestor, gave his consent,
At once his car ascended; with him Machaon went,
The son of Esculapius, a healer good and true. 515
He drove with whip the horses who, not unwilling, flew
Fast to the hollow vessels; to that they were inclined.
But Kebriones saw the Trojans whirled in confusion
blind,
And, going near to Hektor, to him these words addressed:
“Here are we now, O Hektor, amid the Danaans
pressed 520
At the verge of war ill-echoing; and the other Trojans all
Are mixed in dire confusion—themselves and steeds withal.

*Paris.
BOOK XI 237

And Telamonian Ajax confounds; him well I know
By the broad shield on his shoulders; yet thither let us go
With horses and with chariot straightway, for mostly
there 525
The horsemen and the footmen an evil contest bear,
Destroying one another; and a quenchless tumult reigns.”
And, speaking thus, he scourged on the steeds with
beauteous manes
Beneath the lash shrill-sounding; they, feeling the whip

mar,
Between th’ Achaians and Trojans rushed with the rapid
car, 530

Trampling on shields and corpses, all the axle-tree below

Was fouled by blood cast on it; the arching rims which go

Around the seat were spattered by drops from hoofs and
tire,

He sought to break th’ assembly by rushing on like fire,

And sent upon the Danaans a tumult ill and drear, 535

And little ceased his warring or brandishing the spear.

And he went forth to combat the other ranks of men,

With javelin and with falchion and great stones gathered
then,

But ever shunned the battle with Ajax Telamon.

{For Zeus would have been angered if he fought a better
man.] 540

But Father Zeus, high-sitting, Ajax with terror filled.

He stood amazed and cast o’er his back his sevenfold
shield.

And gazed upon the tumult, like wild beast, tremblingly,

And went, oft looking backward, but slowly, knee by knee.

Just as a tawny lion, from stalls where oxen stay, 545

The dogs and rustics gathered hasten to drive away,

And do not let him seize on the fat of oxen great,

And watch all night; he, longing for flesh, drives on them
straight,

Yet by it profits nothing, for many javelins bear

In rapid rush against him, impelled by hands which
dare; 550

And blazing torches fright him, though he be much in-
clined.—
238 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He goes away at morning afflicted in his mind;

Thus Ajax from the Trojans went, grieved at heart full
sore,

Unwilling, since great fear he for th’ Achaians’ vessels
bore.

And as a stubborn donkey, whom boys drive by a field, 555

(Against whom many cudgels, already broken, yield),

Enters the field and grazes upon the harvest tall,

And the boys beat him with cudgels although their force
is small,

And hardly they expel him when he is filled withal;

Thus the great-minded Trojans and allies called from
far 560

After great Ajax ever, the Telamonian, bare. .

And ever flung their missiles on the middle of his
shield.

Yet sometimes mighty Ajax his rushing might revealed.

And turned his footsteps backward and made the phalanx

yield
(Of the horse-taming Trojans); then turned to flight his
feet. 565

But kept all from advancing upon the vessels fleet;
Himself raged in the midst of th’ Achaian and Trojan
bands;
And spears were flung against him by strong and daring
hands.
Some in his ample buckler, where they had stuck remained
And many in the middle (ere his white skin they at-
tained), 570
Stood in the earth, desiring their full of flesh and bone.
Him when Eurypylos noticed, Euaimon’s noble son,
Pressed by the frequent missiles, he went to him and stood,
And flung his shining javelin, which struck Apisaon good
(The pastor of his people, great Phausias’s.son) 575
"Neath the diaphragm, in the liver; his limbs were loosed
anon;
Eurypylos rushed forward, from his form the armour drew.
But when godlike Alexander, lurking in ambush, knew
That he took Apisaon’s armour, at once his bow he drew
And shot against Eurypylos and struck his dexter thigh 580
BOOK XI 239

With shaft; the reed was broken, and the thigh pained
heavily.

But Eurypylos receded ’mid his companions’ bands,

Avoiding fate, and shouted to the Danaans loud com-
mands:

“O friends, ye Argive leaders and rulers, to the fray
Turn all and stand together and ward the fatal day 585
From Ajax, who by missiles is pressed; and he, I say,
Cannot fly from war ill-echoing; yet with all strength

press on
And stand by mighty Ajax, the son of Telamon.”
Thus spoke Eurypylos wounded; and they to him
stood near,
Their shields stayed on the shoulder, and all raised up the

spear. 590
But Ajax came toward them and turned round when he
came

To the band of his companions.—Thus they fought like
sparkling flame.

But Nestor from the battle the mares of Neleus took
With sweat, and bore Machaon, the pastor of his folk.
But fleet divine Achilles, when he saw the hero, knew; 595
For he stood upon the stern of his monstrous ship to view
The lofty toil and labour, the flight with tears bested.
At once to his companion, Patroklos brave, he said,
Calling beside the vessel; he heard and from the tent
Came forth, the peer of Ares; here first his ills were

sent. 600
The brave son of Menoitios said to him eagerly:
“Why do you call, Achilles? How have you need of
me?”
And fleet-of-foot Achilles to him at once rejoined:

“ Divine son of Menoitios, most cherished in my mind,

I think that round my knees now th’ Achaians will pray

forlorn; 605
For need has come upon them which can no more be
borne.

Yet go, Zeus-loved Patroklos, ask Nestor in his car,
Who is this wounded hero whom he removes from war.
Behind, he bears all semblance to great Machaon’s grace,
240 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The son of Esculapius; but I did not see his face; 610

For the horses rushed on by me, speeding in their career.”

Thus spoke he; and Patroklos obeyed his comrade
dear,

And ran forth to th’ Achaian vessels and tents of fame.—

But when they* to the quarters of the son of Neleus °

came,
Themselves descended quickly to the many-feeding
earth; 615
And Eurymedon, th’ attendant, let the old man’s mares
go forth
From the car; and from their tunics abundant sweat they
dried.

Standing amid the breezes upon the ocean’s side;

But they sat down on couches when they had reached the
tent.

And well-haired Hekamedé for them a mixture blent 620

(Whom the old man led from Tenedos razed by Achilles
grim,

Great-souled Arsinoos’ daughter, whom th’ Achaians
chose for him,

Because in giving counsel he was the best of all);

And, first, the beauteous table she placed for festival

(With kyanos feet, well-polished); on it, a brazen tray, 625

And on the dish an onion, the drinker’s relish lay,

And honey new and fruit of the sacred barley’s bloom;

And by them, a fair beaker which th’ ancient brought
from home,

Which golden nails disparted; and handles four were
spread,

And round each well-wrought handle two golden pigeons
fed. 630

This beaker had two bottoms. Another raised with toil

The full cup from the table, but Nestor, without moil.

In it for them the woman, like heavenly goddesses,

Mixed wine which came from Pramné, on which she
grated cheese

Of goat’s milk, with brass grater, and sprinkled white
meal o’er, 635

*Nestor and Machaon.
BOOK XI 241

And bade them drink the mixture when she had mixed
the store.

When both by drinking freely had loosed their arid thirst,

They cheered themselves with stories and with themselves
discoursed.

But now divine Patroklos before the doors was known;

The old man, when he saw him, rose from his splendid
throne; 640

Taking his hand, he led in, to him a seat preferred.

On the other hand, Patroklos declined and spoke the word:

“No seat, Zeus-nurtured ancient, you’ll not persuade

me so

Revered and well-respected is he who sent to know

What man you led back wounded. Yet I know him as I
look, 645

For I behold Machaon, the pastor of the folk.

But now back to Achilles I go the tale to tell;

And you, Zeus-nurtured ancient, know in such matters
well

That he is hard, and quickly might blame the innocent.”

Then Gerenian horseman, Nestor, to him this answer

sent: 650

“‘ Why is it thus Achilles mourns for th’ Achaian chiefs,

Who bear the wounds of weapons, and does not know the
griefs

Arisen through the army? For in the vessels lie

The bravest, who are wounded from far or struck close by.

Tydides e’en is smitten, full powerful Diomed; 655

And spear-renowned Odysseus and Agamemnon bled;

[And Eurypylos is wounded in the thigh by shaft shot
far];

And this man is another, whom I just brought from war,

Smit by a nerve-sent arrow. And Achilles, e’en though
brave,

Cares nowise for the Danaans, nor does in pity save. 660

Waits he till the swift vessels which by the sea aspire,

When the Argives have been conquered, shall burn with
hostile fire,

And we in turn are slaughtered? For my strength is now
no more
242 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Such as within my members agile it was before.
Would that I were as youthful, my strength as firm in
ose, 665

As when with the Eleians and us a strife arose

About some oxen driven, which I by plundering won,

When I killed strong Atymoneus, Hypirochos’s son,

Who had his home in Elis. He in the foremost band,

Guarding the herd, was stricken by a javelin from my
hand. 670

He fell, the rustic people trembled and fled amain.

But we assembled plunder abundant from the plain:—

Full fifty herds of oxen, as many flocks of sheep,

As many swine we gathered, as many goats as cheap.

And, sooth, we took a hundred and fifty yellow steeds, 675

All female, and full many a colt with them proceeds.

And to Neleian Pylos we drove the spoil we had,

To the city in the night-time; and Neleus’ mind was glad

That I had met much plunder, going in youth to war.

But the heralds summoned loudly when the morning shone
afar 680

The men in sacred Elis to whom a debt was due;

The Pylian chiefs assembled and made division true

Of plunder (for th’ Epeians were owing many a debt;

For we were few in Pylos, and many an ill beset.—

For in the years before this great Hercules oppressed, 685

When he came to the city, and slaughtered all the best.

For blameless Neleus erstwhile twelve blooming sons
enjoyed;

I am the sole survivor; the rest were all destroyed.—

And by these things elated, th’ Epeians brazen-dressed

Heaped on us many an insult, devising deeds unblest).-6g0

A herd of beeves the ancient took and a flock of sheep,

Selecting full three hundred and eke the men to keep.

(For, him great debts were owing in Elis the divine),

And four prize-bearing horses, with cars of high design,

Going to take their prizes; since they were going to race 695

For tripods, but King Augeias detained them in that place,

And then dismissed the drivers who for the horses grieved.

But the ancient was indignant at the words and works
received,
BOOK XI 243

And took a boundless portion and gave his folk the rest.
[To divide, that none, defrauded of his share, should go

distressed.] 00
And we these things accomplished and made through all
the town
Offerings to all the godheads. When the third day came
down,

At once all the Epeians came with steeds with hoofs entire

In force, and both Molions put on their armour dire,

Though boys as yet, and knowing little of rushing
might. 705

The city Thryoessa is there, a lofty hight

Afar on the Alpheios, last town of sandy Pyle;

This they besieged, desiring to raze the town the while.

When all the plain they passed o’er, Athena came by
night

With message from Olympus to put on armour bright 710

And gathered there in Pylos a people prone in thought

And very fierce for warring. Neleus allowed me not

To arm myself for battle, and he concealed my car,

And said that I knew nothing of all the works of war.

Yet I among our horsemen shone with a radiance

bright, 715
Though being a footman with them; for Athena led to
fight.

The Minyeios is a river which near Aren meets the brine.

There we, the Pylian horsemen, awaited Morn divine,

And, meanwhile, crowding after, the footmen came in
swarms;

And thence with all our forces, bedight with shining
arms, 720

To Alpheios’ sacred currents we came with noontide’s
glare.

And there to Zeus prepotent we made our offerings fair:

A bull to the Alpheios, one to Neptune we preferred;

But to fierce-eyed Athena a heifer of the herd.

And then we took our supper by the army’s compan-
ies, 725

And slumbered in our armour where the river’s current
flies.
244 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And the great-souled Epeians leagured the town afar
And wished to raze, but ere this came a mighty work of
war.
For when the sun resplendent above earth’s surface drove,
We met in battle, praying to Athena and to Jove; 730
Yet when the strife the Pylians and great Epeians shook,
The first, I slew a warrior and his whole-hoofed horses
took;
The famous spearman, Moulios, Augeias’ son-in-law.
Who had his eldest daughter, Agamedé, without flaw,
Who knew as many drugs as the wide earth’s regions
rear. 735
But I, as he rushed forward, struck him with brazen spear;
Prone to the dust he tumbled, and I sprang in his car
And stood among the foremost. But fled confused afar
The mighty-souled Epeians, when they saw the warrior

fall.
[The leader of their horseman and the best among them
all]. 740

But I rushed in upon them like a sable hurricane,

And seized on fifty chariots; from each two men amain

Seized earth with teeth and bit it, o’ermastered by my
spear.

Now I had slain the Molions, the sons* of Aktor, here,

Had not their sire wide-ruling Posidon saved them
there 745

From hostile war, concealing them in much dusky air.

Then Zeus gave to the Pylians a mighty power again,

For, so long as we sped after upon the ample plain,

We killed them and collected the shining arms they wore,

Till to wheat-rich Bouprasion our steeds and chariots
bore, 750

And to the rock Olenia and Alisios’ so-called tomb,

Whence Athena turned the people back on their pathway
home.

There I killed the hindmost warrior and left him on the
field.

But th’ Achaians from Bouprasion to Pyle their swift
steeds held,

*The reputed sons.
BOOK XI 245

And all praised Zeus, ’mid godheads, and Nestor ’mid all
men. 755

And thus I was, if ever I lived, or now or then,

Among men who are mortal.—But Achilles sole and lorn

Will glory in his valour and greatly will he mourn,

I think, when he has tidings that all the folk are dead.

O friend, on you Menoitios this firm injunction laid, 760

That day he sent from Phthia to Agamemnon’s home.

I and divine Odysseus were there within the dome,

And heard all in the mansions just as he gave commands.

And we came where the palace, well-dwelt, of Peleus
stands;

And through Achaia fertile we sought a host to win. 765

There then we found the hero, Menoitios, within,

And you beside Achilles. And horseman Peleus old

To Zeus, who joys in thunder, burned on fire manifold,

In an alcove of the palace, an ox’s fatted thighs

And poured from golden beaker black wine in sac-

rifice. 77°
And both of you were busied with the ox’s flesh which
blazed,

When we stood in the portals; Achilles rose amazed
And led, by the hand taking, and bade us take a seat,
And placed before us xenia, such as for guests are meet.
But when we now were sated with food and drink pro-
fuse, 775
I told to you my story and bade you follow us.
You two were very willing, but they did much suggest.
Old Peleus to Achilles, his son, his charge expressed,
Ever to be the bravest and shine above the rest.
Menoitios, son of Aktor, to you these words gave forth: 780
‘My son, Achilles is greater than you are by his birth,
Yet you in years are older, and he is stronger far;
So give him prudent counsel and admonition bear
And teach; then on the better his preference will be set.’
Thus did the old man bid you, but you in all forget. 785
Yet even now to warlike Achilles you might say,
If he to you would listen. Who knows if, while you pray,
Some favouring god may rouse him; good is a comrade’s
word.
246 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

If he avoid in spirit some prophecy preferred,
Which him his honoured mother, learning from Zeus,

has told, 790
Then let him send you forward with the Myrmidonians
bold

To be a light of safety to the Danaans from far;

Let him give his beauteous armour to guard you in the
war;

And if the Trojans, thinking you him, from war are borne,

The brave sons of th’ Achaians may breathe a time, though
worn; 795

Though slight the respite given to those by warring torn.

But you with strength unwasted will push the warriors
spent

In fight, toward the city, from vessels and from tent.”

Thus spoke he; and his* spirit was moved within his

breast;

To Aiakides Achilles, by the ships, in haste he pressed. 800

But when near to the vessels of divine Odysseus run

Patroklos (by the forum and the court where right was

done,

And where by them the altars of th’ immortal gods were
set)

There him Eurypylos (wounded in the thigh by arrow)
met,

Zeus-descended Euaimonides; limping, from war he
sped; 805

And copious sweat was pouring from shoulders and from
head;

But from the wound malignant the black blood slowly
flowed;

Yet still his dauntless spirit with quenchless fervour glowed.
And, seeing him, felt pity Menoitios’ powerful son,
And, while he grieved about him, with wingéd words

begun: 810
“Unhappy chiefs and rulers who guide the Danaan
band,

And will you (far from kindred and from your fatherland)
Glut the swift dogs in Troja with snowy fat amain?

*Patroklos,
BOOK XI 247

But come, Zeus-nurtured hero, Eurypylos, tell me plain:
Do yet th’ Achains stand up against huge Hektor near, 815
Or will they meet destruction, o’ermastered by his spear ?”
Anon Eurypylos prudent to him in answer said:
“No more, Zeus-born Patroklos, will the Achaians have
aid,
But in the sable vessels by the ocean’s strand will fall;
For all the kings and chieftains who were the best of
all, 820
Lie in the vessels wounded by arrow or spear dire,
Struck by the hands of Trojans whose strength grows
ever higher,
Yet save me from destruction, leading to my black bark;
Cut from my thigh the arrow, wash out the blood all-dark
From it with tepid water; and let soft drugs be brought, 825
Healing, which you before this, they say, Achilles taught,
Which Chiron erstwhile taught him—the justest centaur
told;
For Machaon and Podaliros, who are physicians bold,—
One in the tent is lying, I think, and has a wound,
And he himself the need of a skillful leech has found, 830
The other waits sharp warring from the Trojans on the
plain.”
To him the powerful son of Menoitios spoke again:
“ How will these works be ended? Hero Eurypylos,
What shall we do? Iam going that I the tale of loss,
Told by Gerenian Nestor, th’ Achaians’ fence and
guard, 835
May tell Achilles warlike; nor you I leave thus marred.”
Thus saying, the peoples’ pastor held ‘neath the breast,
he led
To the tent; his servant, seeing, of ox-hides made a bed.
When there he was extended, from the thigh with knife he

cut
The sharp and bitter arrow and washed the black blood
out 840

Of it with tepid water, and applied the bitter root,

Pain-healing, then he rubbed it, which all the pain released;

And soon the wound was dried up, and all the bleeding
ceased.
i

248 THE ILIAD OF HOMER
BOOK XII

THE BATTLE AT THE WALL,

Thus now within the quarters Menoitios’ brave son*
Restored Eurypylos wounded; but confusedly fought on
The Argives and the Trojans. Yet Fate no more allowed
The Danaans to be guarded by the moat and rampart

broad,
Which they’d raised around the vessels and dug the moat
before;
For nowise to the godheads famed hecatombs they bore
That they the rapid vessels and mighty plunder won
Might ae for in despite of th’ immortal gods ’t was
one.
And short the time allotted for it to stand entire.—
While Hektor yet was living, and Achilles raged in ire, 10
And the city of King Priam stood firm and integral,
So long rose up unbroken th’ Achaians’ mighty wall.
But when of all the Trojans death had the bravest reft,
And, of the many Achaians, some died and some were left,
And the city of King Priam fell in the tenth year banned,15
And the Argives went in vessels to their dear fatherland,
Posidon and Apollo devised a plan at length
To lay the wall in ruin, using the rivers’ strength,—
All which from Ida’s mountains rush forward to the sea:
Heptaporos and Rhesos, Karesos, Rhodios free, 20
Granikos and Aisepos and divine Skamander’s wave
And Simois, where full many a shield and helmet brave
Prone in the dust had fallen, and the race of demigods.
Phoebus Apollo turned all together with their floods.
One day, and sent their currents to strike against the

wall; 25
Zeus rained apace that sooner the wall, sea-washed, might
fall.

Himself, the great Earth-Shaker, with trident in his hands
Led, and washed out with billows all the foundation bands

*Patroklos.
BOOK XII 249

Of beams and massy rock-work, which th’ Achaians laid
with pain,

And to the Hellespontos rapid he made all plain. 30

But again with sands he covered the waste and mighty
shore,

When he the wall had leveled, and turned the streams
once more

Back to their ancient channels to flow with beauteous foam.

Posidon and Apollo thus in the years to come

Would do; but, then, in fury the fight and clamour
burned 35

Around the well-built ramparts; and the towers’ smit
beams returned

The echoes, while the Argives, by Zeus’s scourge subdued,

Amid the hollow vessels enclosed, unwilling stood,

Fearing the might of Hektor, the master strong of flight;

But he fought on as erstwhile, as with a whirlwind’s
might. 40

As when ’mid dogs and hunters a boar or lion turns,

And from his savage eyeballs the desert’s vigour burns;

And they, themselves arranging in troops, against him
stand,

And fling their frequent javelins against him with stark
hand;

And his high courage never before them fears nor flies, 45

Yet bravery kills him; often he turns about and tries

The ranks of men; wherever he goes the hunters shun;

Thus through the throng whirled Hektor, urging his com-
rades on

To pass the fosse. The horses, swift-footed, did not dare,

But loudly neighed and halted before the steep banks
there. 50

The wide moat gave them terror, not easy ’twas to cross,

Nor, standing near to leap it; for both sides of the fosse

Had hanging banks around it; and all the trench was
mixed

And fortified with palings which th’ Achaians’ sons had
fixed;

And dense they were and mighty, a guard ’gainst men
infest. 55
250 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And there not well a charger with well-wheeled chariot
pressed

In entrance; but the footmen desired the way to try.

Then said to valiant Hektor Polydamas, who stood by:

“ Hektor and ye other leaders of Trojans and allies,

We drive our rapid coursers through the trench in heed-
less guise; 60

’T is very hard to cross it, for sharp stakes in it stand,

And just behind them rises th’ Achaians’ rampart grand.

And no wise is it fitting for descent or fight of horse,

Where, I think, they would be wounded, wedged in the
narrow course.

But if Zeus, lofty-thundering, with ill intent displayed, 65

Destroys th’ Achaian warriors and gives the Trojans aid,

I would, in truth, wish greatly that this at once appear:

That th’ Achaians die inglorious, afar from Argos, here;

But if they turn against us and from the ships beat back,

And we should be entangled in the trench in helpless
wrack, 7O

I think that then not even a messenger will go

To tell it to the city, ’scaping th’ Achaian foe.

But come, and as I tell you, let all of you obey:

Let th’ attendants keep the horses by the fosse, not far

away;
But let us, clad in armour, all after Hektor great 75
Follow, pressed close together; and th’ Achaians will not

wait,
If the ends of their destruction hang over them by fate.”
Polydamas thus; and Hektor favoured the counsel
sound;
At once from car in armour he leapt upon the ground.
Nor did the other Trojans convene in horsemen’s line, 80
But all at once rushed forward, beholding Hektor divine.
Then each one gave his orders to his own charioteer
To keep the steeds in order beside the fossa near;
Then they drew off, arranging their force for fight anon,
And parted in five columns, which with their chiefs rushed
on. 85
And they who went with Hektor and famed Polydamas,
Were far the most and bravest, and most desired to pass,
BOOK XII 251

When they had rent the rampart, to the hollow ships to
war;

And, third, Kebriones followed; for Hektor by the car

Had left a weaker warrior than Kebriones by far. go

More Paris and Agenor ruled, with Alkathoos;

And Helenos led the third with divine Deiphobos;

They were two sons of Priam; next hero Asios led,

Hyrtakides, great Asios, whom horses tall and red

Bore from Arisba’s city and from Selleis’ shore.—

The brave son of Anchises, AEneas, the fourth ruled o’er,

With Akamas, Archelochos, knowing well all strategies.—

Sarpedon was the chief of the far-renowned allies;

And bold Asteropaios and Glaukos with him pressed,

Who seemed of all the others to be the very best, Ico

Excepting great Sarpedon who shone in all the fields.

But they with one another joined well-wrought ox-hide

shields,
And straight against the Danaans went on and thought
withal
That these would not oppose them but in the black ships
fall.
Thus, then, the other Trojans and the far-called
allies 105

Obeyed the counsel given by Polydamas famed and wise.

But Asios Hyrtakides, chief of warriors would not hear

Of parting from his horses and attendant charioteer,

But with his steeds and chariot to the rapid ships came
near.

Foolish !—for thus in nowise did he escape ill fate, 110

Exultant on his horses and chariot elate,

And turn back from the vessels to wind-swept Ilion;

For ill named fate before him and over him was thrown

By Idomeneus’s javelin, Deukalion’s famous son.

For he rushed on the vessels amid the left of war, 115

Where the Achaians retreated with courser and with car.

There drove he car and horses, nor found the portals closed

To him in the high arches, nor the long bar opposed.

But men held wide the portals amid the vessels there

To save those of their comrades who fled away from
war. 120
252 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Straight there he held his horses, attended by his band

Crying loud; they thought th’ Achaians would make no
further stand,

Yet in the sable vessels would o’er each other fall.

The fools!—But in the portals they found the best of all—

Two brave sons of the Lapithae, two warriors mighty-
souled; 125

They were Pirithoos’ offspring; one, Polypoites bold,

The other was Leonteus, peer of Mars homicide.

These stood before the gates of the ramparts high and
wide.—

As when among the mountains two high-topped oak-trees
stay,

Which bartle with the rain-storm and wind for many a
day, 130

By mighty roots adhering in wide-extended course;

Thus these two chiefs, relying upon their hands and force,

Waited great Asios coming and did not fear nor fly.

But they* rushed to the rampart, well-builded, raising

high
Their shields of arid ox-hides, and raised a sounding
cry 135

Around the monarch Asios, Orestes, Iamenos,

Oinomaos, Thoon, Akamas, the son of Asios,

First these twain to th’ Achaians, well-greaved, entreaty
bare

(For they within were standing) to guard the vessels
there;—

But when they saw the Trojans rushing upon the wall, 140

And fear and flight and clamour upon the Danaans fall,

Then these two darted forward and fought before the gate,

Just as two wild boars savage who in the mountains wait

The ever-coming tumult of dogs and hunting train,

And rush obliquely onward and break the wood amain;145

And from its roots they tear it, and sounds the gnash of
teeth,

Till someone flings his javelin and takes away their breath;

And thus the brass resplendent on their breasts a clangour
brought

*The allie. | {The Lapithae.
BOOK XII 253

Against the striking missiles; for mightily they fought,

In the troops above them trusting and in their own power
vast. 150

And from the towers well-builded the guards rock frag-
ments cast,

Guarding themselves and quarters and the ships which
journey fast.

As fall to earth the snowflakes, by a strong wind sent forth,

Which whirls the shadowy vapours and on the fertile

earth
Pours thick; thus did the missiles flow from the powerful
hands 155

Of those amid th’ Achaian and ’mid the Trojan bands.

And helmets sounded harshly, by rocks like millstones
struck,

And bossy shields resounded when they received the shock.

Hyrtakides, King Asios, then, with a heavy groan

Struck both his thighs in anger and called in angry

tone: 160
“Zeus Father, ’t is most true that you have deceitful
grown;

For I held not the opinion th’ Achaian hero bands
Would hold against our vigour and our unconquered
hands.
They are like varied-waisted wasps or the honey bees,
Who excavate their dwellings in roads’ rugosities, 165
Nor leave their hollow mansions, but wait within them
penned
The men who come to hunt them and there their young
defend;
Thus these will not abandon the portals, though but twain,
Before they shall be captured or else they shall be slain.”
Thus he, but by his speeches persuaded not Zeus’
mind; 170
Since all the fame to Hektor he in his thought designed.
[Others round other portals contended in the fight.
’T is hard for me to tell all these deeds, like god, aright.
For all around the rampart rose a boundless stony fire,
And th’ Argives sad their vessels held by compulsion
dire; 175
254 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And all the gods were sorely afflicted in the mind

(As many as in the battle to the Danaans inclined).

The Lapithae the warring and hostility begun.]

Then powerful Polypoites, Pirithoos’s son,

Struck Damasos with spear through the brass-cheeked
helmet’s zone; 180

The brass helm did not stay it, but the brass point broke
the bone. /

All the brain within was shattered; it tamed him fiery-
willed;

And next the heroes Pylon and Ormenos he killed.—

Leonteus struck with javelin Antimachos’s son,

A scion of Mars, Hippomachos, striking hard by the

zone. 185

Next his keen sword from scabbard he drew, and through
the band

Rushed on and struck Antiphates (the first one) hand to
hand,

And he supine fell earthward; then, piled confused, went
forth

Orestes, Jamenos, Menon to the many-feeding earth.
While from these slain they stripped off their armour
glittering sheen, 190
The youths (the most and bravest) followed with spirit keen
Polydamas and Hektor, and great was their desire
To lay the wall in ruin and burn the ships with fire.
While yet they spoke in counsel, standing beside the fosse,
An omen showed above them, who were full fain to
cross; 195
A lofty-flying eagle, borne to the army’s left,
Which bore a blood-stained serpent within its talons cleft
(Monstrous, alive and panting), nor yet did fight forsake.
For it struck the bird which held it on the breast, beside

the neck,
In its contortions backward; the bird, by anguish
cowed, 200
Dismissed the dragon earthward, which fell among the
crowd;

And next, on the wind’s breathings, flew off with clangour
loud,
BOOK XII 255

And the Trojans shuddered, seeing the varied serpent nigh.
Then said to valiant Hektor Polydamas, standing by:
“ Hektor, you blame me ever when we in council sit, 205

Though giving wholesome counsel; for ’t would nowisc
befit

A citizen to speak ill, neither in council’s hour,

Nor yet in time of warring, but aye to augment your power.

But I will speak out plainly what seems to me the best:

Let us not keep on warring for the Danaan ships infest. 210

I think ’t will be accomplished as now this sign of loss

Has come upon the Trojans, who much desire to cross.

The lofty-flying eagle, borne to the army’s left,

Which bore a blood-stained serpent within its talons cleft,

Monstrous, alive, but loosed it before it reached its
nest, 215

And did not finish bearing to still its young’s unrest:

Thus we, if both the portals and th’ Achaian wall afield

We break with mighty effort, and the Achaians yield,

Not joyous from the vessels shall we pursue our way,

But leaving many Trojans whom th’ Achaians in the
fray 220

Will kill by brass in warring to guard the vessels lined.

Thus an augur would interpret, who wisely in his mind

Knows portents; and the people would turn their minds
to him.”

Helm-glancing Hektor answered, gazing with glances

grim:

“ Polydamas, no longer you speak fair words to me; 225

You know another counsel better than this will be.

But if in sober earnest and truth such words you say,

Then, sure, some god has taken your mind and sense
away.

You bid me slight the counsel of Zeus, high-thundering

od, ‘

Who himself gave me the promise and confirmed it with
his nod. 230

And you bid me to obey the wing-extending birds of air;

In naught do I regard them, for them I do not care;

Whether they journey dexter, toward the Sun or Morn,

Or if they journey leftward, to dusky Even borne.
256 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Let us in all the counsel of mighty Zeus obey, 235
Who over all immortals and mortals all bears sway.
This is the best of omens—to guard our fatherland.
Wherefore ’mid war and battle do you in terror stand?
Since, if we all should perish and in destruction he
Around the Argive vessels, you need not fear to die;—240
For your heart is not enduring in fight—you know not
war.
But if you leave the battle or would another bar
From combat by exhorting to leave the field of strife,
Soon, smitten by my javelin, shall you depart from life.”
Thus saying, he rushed forward; the others followed
close 245
With widely-echoing clamour; but thunder-joying Zeus
Sent down from Ida’s mountains a storm of wind full sore,
Which straight upon the vessels an evil dust cloud bore,
And at the time he softened th’ Achaians’ spirit brave,
But glory to the Trojans and mighty Hektor gave. 250
And in his signs confiding and their own might withal,
They made th’ attempt to break through the great Acha-
ian wall.
Towers’ battlements they pulled down, the parapets they
broke,
The buttresses projecting they loosed with levers’ stroke;
(With them, earth-laid, th’ Achaians had braced the

towers from fall). 255
They pulled these down, expecting to break th’ Achaians’
wall.

By no means did the Danaans give up the roadway yet,

But with their ox-hide bucklers fenced well the parapet,

And from it struck their foemen who went beneath the wall

And from the towers th’ Ajaces gave orders to them all, 260

Went everywhere among them and roused th’ Achaians’
force,

And used with one fair speeches, with another, stern dis-
course

(\Whoe’er they saw neglectful in all the works of war):

“O friends, who ’mid the Argives are excellent or are
Mediocre or weaker (since not all men befal 265
Like forces for the battle), now, there is work for all;
BOOK XII 257

And. you yourselves must know this. Yet let no one turn
back

To the ships (who hears a menace from the Trojans on his
track).

Yet turn your footsteps forward, exhort each other true,

Should Zeus, th’ Olympian lightener, give to us to pur-
sue 270

(If we repel the battle) the foemen to the town.”

Thus, calling in the vanguard, both urged th’ Achaians

on.

As when the frequent snow-flakes fall on a winter day,

When prudent Zeus has given the snowstorm to bear sway,

And thus displays to mortals his weapons as they be;— 275

Laying the winds in slumber ‘he pours unceasingly

Till he conceals the mountains’ high peaks and loftiest
tops,

The plains of blooming lotus and men’s luxuriant crops;

And pours upon the harbours and the shores of the gray
main,

And the advancing billows alone its course restrain, 280

But all the rest is covered when Zeus’ shower falls amain;

Thus thick the stones were flying in the air to either hand;

Some flew against the Trojans, some, ’gainst th’ Achaian
-band;

And over all the ramparts a sounding clamour rose.

But ne’er had famous Hektor and the mighty Trojan

foes 285

Broken the rampart’s portals and the long bar put on,

Had not wise Zeus incited Sarpedon, his own son,

’Gainst th’ Argives, like a lion ’gainst oxen crooked-
horned.

At once his shield all-equa! before himself he turned

(All-beauteous, brazen, hammered, which the brass-
smith glorified 290

And on the:inside sewed it with many a thick ox-hide).

And endless golden striping around the orb appears.

Then,-holding this:before him and brandishing two spears,

He hastened like a lion, in mountains bred and born,

Whom long the pangs of hunger for want of flesh has
torn; 295
258 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And his great mind commands him to try to seize on sheep,

And even to the sheepfold well-fortified to creep,

E’en should he find the shepherds beside it in the yard

With dogs and with their javelins, holding the sheep in
guard,

He bears not, without trial, to be driven from the
ground, 300

But leaps within and takes one, or is stricken by a wound,

Amid the first, by javelin which some quick hand has held.

Thus, then, divine Sarpedon was by his mind impelled

‘To rush upon the bulwark and break the barrier down.

At once he said to Glaukos, Hippolochos’s son: 305

““ Glaukos, why are we honoured in Lykia most of all,

With flesh and seat at table and brimming cups withal,

And each one gazing on us among the godheads ranks ?

We share a great enclosure upon the Xanthos’ banks,

Fair for productive vine-land and for wheat-bearing
land. 310

For this it now beseems us ’mid the Lykians first to stand

And meet the burning battle that some well-armed Lykian
say:

‘ Not ingloriously our monarchs in Lykia bear sway,

Eating fat sheep and drinking the honey-dulcet wine.

High are their spirits, warring in the foremost Lykian
line.’ 315

O friend, should it be fated, if we this warring flee,

That we should ever after ageless and deathless be,

I would not combat ever among the first in fame,

Nor send you to the battle which glorifies men’s name.

But now (since, sooth, ten thousand Keres of death press
nigh, 320

Whom ’t is not given to mortal either to shun or flv),

Go we to conquer glory or else to be a prey.”

Thus he; and Glaukos heeded and did not disobey.
Both went straight on, the Lykians’ great nation leading

on.
And, gazing on them, shuddered Menestheus, Peteus’
son; 325

For they went to his turret, bearing an evil grief.
He viewed th’ Achaian forces that he might see some chief
BOOK XII 259

Who might from his companions the coming ruin bar.
He saw the two Ajaces, insatiable of war,
Standing, and near them Teucer, who had just left his

tent; 330
But nowise could they hear him, whate’er the shout he
sent,
So great the din and clangour; and the tumult rose to
heaven,

Which from smitten shields and portals and horse-haired
helms was given;

For all the gates were bolted. The Trojans ’mid the din

Remained and tried to break them and thus by force go
in. 335

To Ajax herald Thootes at once he sent withal:

“ Go forth, divine Thootes, and, running, Ajax call;

But to call them both were better, and ’t would be best of
all,

Since here upon us quickly will come destruction sore.

For so the Lykian chieftains press on, who e’en before 340

Were full of strength and ardour amid the powerful fight.

But e’en if there, about them, labour and war excite,

Let mighty Ajax only, the Telamonian, go;

With him let Teucer follow, who knows so well the bow.”

Thus he; the herald, hearing, obeyed his thoughts ex-

pressed, 345
And ran along the rampart of th’ Achaians’ brazen-dressed
And stood beside th’ Ajaces and quickly to them said:

“* Ajaces, you two leaders of th’ Achaians brazen-clad,
The cherished son, Zeus-nurtured, of Peteus asks of you
To go there that a season the toil to both accrue. 350
Fer both to go were better; ’t were best of all to do,
Since there upon them quickly will come destruction sore.
For so the Lykian leaders press on, who e’en before
Were full of strength and ardour amid the powerful fight.
But e’en if here, about you, labour and war excite, — 355
Let mighty Ajax only, the Telamonian, go;

With him let Teucer follow, who knows so well the bow.”

Thus he; great Telamonian Ajax his words obeyed,
And to Oiliades quickly his wingéd words conveyed:

“ Ajax, with Lykomedes, who has abundant might, 360
260 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Stand here and urge the Danaans full powerfully to fight.
For I am going thither war from them to repel;
But I will come back quickly when I have aided well.”
Then, speaking thus, departed Telamonian Ajax grim;
His brother by one ‘father, brave Teucer, went with
him, 365
With them Pandion carried great Teucer’s bended bow.—
When now great-souled Menestheus’ turret they came
below,
Going within the rampart, they found them labouring sore.
For now upon the breastworks like a dark whirlwind bore
The valiant chiefs and leaders of all the Lykian foes; 370
And they met there in battle while din and clamour rose.
But Telamonian Ajax first slew a hero bold,
The comrade of Sarpedon, Epikles mighty-souled,
Striking with great stone jagged which in the wall lay free
Beside the highest breastwork; and this not easily 375
A man could hold in both hands, though he were very

young

(One such as now are mortals); he raised it high and
flung,

And broke the four-coned helmet and with it crushed the
bone ‘

Of all the head in pieces; he* like a diver prone
Fell from the lofty turret; his life the bones forsook. 380
But Teucer powerful Glaukos, son of Hippolochos, struck
With shaft while he was rushing beneath the lofty wall
(Seeing his arm was naked), and stopped his warring all.
But Glaukos from the rampart leapt covertly to ground,
That no one of th’ Achaians might see and mock his
wound. 385
Yet grief possessed Sarpedon when Glaukos went away
(For he at once perceived it), but did not leave the fray,
Yet Alkmaon, son of Thestor, struck with his javelin

thrown,

And from him drew the javelin;—following the javelin,
prone

Hef fell; his brass arms varied clanged o’er him in the
sands. 390

*Epikles. = tAlkmaon.
BOOK XII 261

Sarpeden dragged the bulwark, seizing with sturdy hands,
And all the rampart followed; the wall above him lay
Deprived of all defences; and he made for many a way.
Ajax and Teucer met him; and one a shaft impressed
On his great buckler’s baldrick, shining upon his
breast. 395
But Zeus the Keres warded from off his son amain,
So that beside the sterns of the ships he’d not be slain.
Then Ajax, rushing forward, smote hard against his
shield;
The spear drove on clear through it and him, though
fierce, repelled.
A space he left the bulwark, but went not quite away, 400
Since his eager soul was hoping to gain great fame that
day.
He turned around toward them and the godlike Lykians
hight:
“Why thus remiss, O Lykians, are you in rushing
might ?
’T is arduous for me singly, though mighty force I sway,
To break the wall, thus making to the hollow ships a
way; 495
Yet go we joined; for many do more in labouring.”
Thus spoke he; and they reverenced th’ exhorting of
the king,
And fiercer pressed, encircling their monarch counselling.
On the other side the Argives confirmed their phalanx
stark,
Which was within the rampart, for great appeared the
work. 410
Nor could the mighty Lykians break through the Danaan
wall
To make upon the vessels their passageway withal;
Nor could the warlike Danaans the Lykians bear back
Defeated from the rampart since first they made attack,
And as two men contending, with measures in their

hands 415
Dispute about the limits which bound some common
lands,

And in a little circuit contend for equal right;
262 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus were both sides divided by the rampart in the fight.

Each struck the other’s buckler before his breast displayed

Ox-hide and deftly-circled, and targets lightly made. 420

And many in the body were struck by rude brass there,

Who turned while they were fighting, and thus the back
laid bare;

And many were struck by missiles which through their
bucklers set;

And all the towers and ramparts with blood of men were
wet,

From Trojans and Achaians, from each side equally. 425

But not thus were they able to make th’ Achaians flee,

But held as a just woman, who labours with her hands,

Holds up the equal balance, and wool and weight with-
stands,

Adjusting till they balance, so a scanty wage be wrung,

For her children; thus the battle and war all-equal hung, 430

Before Zeus loftiest glory Hektor Priamides gave,

Who first within the rampart of the Achaians drave,

And shouted to the Trojans with clear-resounding call:

“ Press on, horse-taming Trojans, and break the Argive

wall,

And cast upon the vessels the fiercely-burning fire.” 435
Thus spoke he in exhorting; and all heard his desire,
And rushed straight on the rampart in crowded throngs,

and here
The battlements they mounted, holding the pointed spear.
But Hektor seized a rock which before the portals stood;
Above the stone was pointed, below, twas broad and
crude; 440
And two men of the people, although the best by far,
Not easily could raise it from earth upon a car
(Such as to-day are mortals); he shook with ease alone.
[The son of wily Kronos had lightened thus the stone.]
And as a shepherd lightly a male sheep’s white fleece

bears 445
(In either stout hand taking), and the weight but little
wears;

Thus Hektor raised the rock and bore straight against the
bars,
BOOK XIII 263

Which fortified the portals, close-joined, against all jars;
Double they were and lofty, two cross-bars held within

(One fitted to the other), and one key fitted in. 450
He came, and standing near them, with might the middle
struck,

Himself with spread legs bracing to give no feeble shock.
He broke off both the hinges; within the huge rock rolled;
The portals loudly sounded; nor did the cross-bars hold;
The beams broke and were scattered confusedly ’mid the

din 455

Before the rock’s strong impulse. There Hektor famed
rushed in,

Like the swift night in aspect; he blazed with dire brass
spanned,

Which wrapped him round the body; he held two spears
m_ hand,

And no one might repel him except the godheads dire
When he rushed through the portals; his eyes burned
bright with fire. 460
And he urred on the Trojans, turning toward the crowd,
To scale the wall; they hearkened to his exhortation loud,
And quickly passed the rampart, and poured on eagerly
Through the portals deftly laboured. But the Danaans
turned to fly
Upon the hollow vessels; and rose a ceaseless cry. 465

BOOK XIII

THE BATTLE BY THE SHIPS.

When Hektor and the Trojans came near the vessels
there,

Zeus suffered them beside them labours and griefs to bear
Unceasingly, and backward his sparkling vision spanned
Far off, intently gazing on th’ equestrian Thrakians’ land,
The highborn Hippomolgians’, the Mysians’ who ken 5
Close fight, the milk-fed Abians’, the justest of all men.
But he on Troy no longer his sparkling eyes inclined,
264 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Since none of the immortals (he thought within his mind)
Would go to bear the Danaans or else the Trojans aid.
But King Posidon nowise in idle watch had stayed, 10
For he had sat and gazed on the war and fight the while,
High on the loftiest summit of Thrakian Samos’ isle,
Rich in its woods; and from it all Ida met his view,
And rose the town of Priam, and th’ Achaians’ vessels, too.
He sat there, leaving Ocean, and mourned th’ Achaians
thus 15
O’ermastered by the Trojans, and strongly raged at Zeus.
And quickly he descended the mountain steep and rude,
With rapid feet progressing, the mountains great and wood
Beneath the feet immortal of rushing Neptune shook.
Three times he strode advancing, but with the fourth

stride took 20
The goal he sought for—Aigai. His famous mansions
there,

Within the sea’s abysses, were builded, shining fair,
Golden and deathless ever. There, to the car he turned
His brass-hoofed steeds, swift-flying, with golden manes
adorned.
He put gold round his body and took a whip of gold, 25
Well-made, his chariot mounted and o’er the billows rolled.
The ocean monsters ’neath him sported in gamboling,
From all the sea’s recesses; they recognized the King;
With joy the wave was parted; they flew most rapidly,
Nor from below was moistened the brazen axle-tree. 30
His agile horses bore him thus to th’ Achaian ships.
There is a spacious cavern in Ocean’s lowest deeps
Midway ’twixt rugged Imbros and Tenedos displayed;
And there Earth-Shaker Neptune his rapid coursers

stayed,
And loosed them from the chariot and gave to them to
eat 35

Ambrosial food, and fastened gold fetters on their feet,
Unbreakable, unloosing, that surely they remain
There for the King returning, who sought th’ Achaian
train.
The thickly thronging Trojans, like whirlwind or like
fire,
BOOK XIIL 265

Followed Priamides Hektor with sateless hot desire, 40
Raging and shouting loudly, and hoped the ships to gain,
And slaughter there beside them all the Achaian train.
But earth-surrounding Neptune, the Shaker of the
Earth,
Urged the Argives on to warring, from the deep sea coming
forth,
Having the form of Kalchas and his accents undis-
tressed; 45
And first the two Ajaces, both eager, he addressed:
“Ye two Ajaces, succour th’ Achaians by your might,
Your ancient force remember, think not of trembling
flight.
Elsewhere I am not fearful of the Trojans’ matchless
hands,
Who passed the wall stupendous with thronging crowded
bands; 50
For the well-greaved Achaians, will ’gainst all fury hold.
But here I fear me greatly lest grief to us be told;
For rabid Hektor leads them, resembling sparkling fire,
And boasts himself the offspring of Zeus, prepotent sire.
But may some of the godheads place in the mind and
breast 55
Of both to stand here bravely and to exhort the rest;
Thus may you ward him rushing on the rapid ships in
fight,
Though iM the Olympian himself should him incite.
Then earth-surrounding Neptune, in closing his dis-
course,
Struck both chiefs with his scepter and filled with powerful
force. 60
He made their members lighter, their feet and hands on
high.
Then like the hawk swift-wingéd he raised himself to fly,
Who from a cleft and lofty rock-wall starts up amain,
That he may chase some other bird flying o’er the plain;
Thus from the two Posidon, earth-shaking godhead,
burst. 65
But, of the two, fleet Ajax, Oilean, knew him first,
And said at once to Ajax, the son of Telamon bold:

”
266 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“ Ajax, since of the godheads who high Olympus hold,
One, like the seer, commands us beside the ships to fight:
(For this augur is not Kalchas who prophecies aright); 70
For the traces of his feet and his legs to me were shone
Lightly, when he departed; with ease the gods are known;
And me myself my spirit within my very breast
Incites now more than ever to war and fight as best;

My feet beneath and hands, which are placed above, drive
on.” 75
To him then said in answer great Ajax Telamon:
“Thus now around my spear-shaft my strong hands
keenly meet,
And strength in me has risen; below, with both my feet
Am I impelled, desiring, e’en though I be alone,
To meet in combat Hektor, Priam’s sateless raging
son.” 80

Thus they betwixt each other such conversation joined,
Glad with desire of battle, which the god put in their mind.

Meanwhile earth-girdling Neptune the rear Achaians

stirred,
Who by the rapid vessels their spirits lax restored;
Since by the heavy labour their precious limbs were
quelled, 85
And pain was in their spirits, whenever they beheld
The Trojans who, with tumult, the rampart great, had

passed.

And, seeing them, the tear-drops from ‘neath their brows
fell fast,

For they thought their death impended. Yet the Shaker of
the Earth,

Going among them lightly their phalanx strong sent
forth. go

And first he reached, exhorting, Teucer and Leitos,

Then Peneleus heroic, Thoas, Deipyros;

Then, Antilochos and Nerion, masters of war confest;—

‘These he incited onward and with wingéd words addressed.
“For shame, young men, ye Argives, I trusted you

would brave 95
‘The full tide of the battle and thus our vessels save;
But if you show remissness and in the dire war yicld,
BOOK XIII 267

This very day shines for you to be by Trojans killed.
Ye gods, how great a marvel thus with my eyes I see;
How shameful! since I trusted ne’er such an end would

be: 100
That the Trojans to our vessels should come, who aye
before

Were like the timid wild stags, who in the forests bore

Themselves the prey of jackals and pards and wolves in
turn;

In weakness thus they wandered, since not for fighting
born;

E’en thus, before, the Trojans cared never to remain, 105

Though little, ’gainst the might and the hands of th’ Argive
train.

But now far from the city, by the hollow ships they fight

Through the baseness of the ruler and the people’s luke-
warm might,

Who, with their chief contending, desire not to defend

The rapid-going vessels, but find by them their end. 110

If wide-ruling Agamemnon Atrides, hero brave,

Caused all when fleet Achilles he such dishonour gave,

By no means must we slacken our toil in warring dure.

But be we cured the sooner; good minds are light to cure.

Yet you no more with honour relax your rushing might,115

O best of all the army. I would not wish to fight

With any man whatever, who shuns the combat’s part,

Being thus weak, unwarlike, but am wroth with you in
heart.—

Soft ones, some greater evil will soon to us be joined

By this your careless baseness; let each one bear in

mind 120
Men’s. scorn and men’s reproaches; for mighty strife is
nigh.

Now by the ships strong Hektor, good at the battle cry,
Wars mightily and breaks through the gates and the long
bar.”
Thus ordering, the Earth-Shaker th’ Achaians roused
to war
And round the two Ajaces the powerful phalanx stood; 125
And Ares, going among them, could not reprove their mood,
268 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Nor Athena, rousing-people. For the best of all the line

Waited there for the ‘Trojans, led on by Hektor divine.

Javelin was braced to javelin, buckler to buckler pressed;

And shield on shield was driven, and crest supported
crest, 130

And warrior pressed to warrior, the helms, decked with
horse hair,

Struck bright rims when they nodded; so dense the men
stood there;

And:in their hands audacious they shook their spears with
might,

And wished to go straight onward, desiring much to fight.

First thronged the Trojans forward, and Hektor led

them on, 135

Lesirinz to rush onward, like baleful rolling stone

Which a torrential river drives from a cliff-brow bold,

And breaks with boundless torrent the reckless fragment’s
hold;

And high it leaps in flying, and roars the wood amain;

But it runs on unpausing down to the level plain; 140

And there it rolls no longer, though it all eager be;

And thus did Hektor menace to go on to the sea

And make his passage lightly through Achaian ship and
tent,

Slaying; but when he chanced on the phalanxes close pent,

He stopped in closest. contact. Th’ Achaians’ adverse
band, 145

Striking with swords and javelins, pointed on either hand,

Repelled him from their phalanx; he turned, forced to
retire,

And shouted to the Trojans all loudly his desire:

“YeTrojans, Lykians Dardans,who battle hand to hand,

Stand fast; since long th’ Achaians my power will not
withstand, 150

Though like a firm-based turret they have themselves
arrayed;

Yet they, I think, will draw back before my spear dis-
played,

If, sooth, the best god aids me, Hera’s high-thundering
lord.”
BOOK XIII 269

Thus saying, the strength and spirit of each one he

restored.

Detphobos, elated, stalked ’mid them on the field, 155

Priamides, before him he held his equal shield,

With feet he came on lightly beneath his buckler sheer.

But Merion aimed at him his brightly shining spear,

And hit, (and did not miss it) the equal shield he wore,

Of bull’s-hide, but he pierced not; the spear-shaft far
before 160

Was broken at the socket; but Deiphobos inclined

From himself the bull’s-hide buckler and feared much in
his mind

Warlike Meriones’ javelin. That hero, very wroth,

Went back among his comrades, and was irate at both:

The victory lost and javelin which shivered at the blow.165

To th’ Achaians’ tents and vessels he turned himself to go

To seek another long javelin left in his quarters nigh.

But the others kept on fighting, and rose a boundless

cry.

Then Teucer Telamonian, the first one, slew a man,

Great Imbrios, the spearman, horse-wealthy Mentor’s
son. 170

He dwelt erst in Pedaion before th’ Achaians came there,

And had Priam’s spurious daughter, Medesikasté fair.

But when the equal vessels of the Danaans thither came

He went again to Ilion, excelling there in fame,

And dwelt in Priam’s palace, honoured like his sons
dear. 175

But Telamonian Teucer struck him beneath the ear

With long spear and withdrew it; then like an ash he fell,

Which on a mountain’s summit (afar discernible),

Cut by ax brazen, scatters its soft leaves on the ground;

Thus fell he, and about him his brass-decked arms gave
sound. 180

And Teucer rushed upon him to spoil his armour sheer;

But at him Hektor, rushing, flung his resplendent spear.

Yet he beheld, avoiding the brazen spear anon,

And Hektor struck Amphimachos, son of Kteas, Aktor’s
son,

As he advanced to battle; the spear his bosom stung; 185
270 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He fell with crash resounding, and his armour o’er him
rung.

But Hektor rushed the helmet, joined round his forehead
bold,

To ravish from the head of Amphimachos great-souled;

Yet Ajax flung at Hektor, while he was rushing on,

His shining spear, but reached not his body, for it shone1go

With frightful brass protecting; the buckler’s boss he
smote,

And with great fury struck it, so Hektor turned about

From both the bodies laid there, which th’ Achaians drew
away.

Then Stichios and Menestheus devine (the rulers they

Of the Atheniau warriors), bore great Amphimachos 195

To the Achian army; and th’ Ajaces Imbrios

Brought back, and both the chieftains were fain for battle
there.

And as a goat two lions from dogs with sharp teeth tear,

And through the thickset brushwood the plundered portion

bear
Add, high above earth taising, within their strong jaws
hold; 200

Thus held aloft the body of th’ Ajaces, warrior bold,

And stripped it of the armour; but from the tender neck

Oiliiades the head struck (for Amphimachos’3 sake

Irate), and through the concourse, like rolling ball, he
cast;

And at the feet of Hektor it fell in dust at last. 205

Then in his heart Posidon felt grievous anger swell,

Since in the heavy battle his cherished grandson fell,

And he the tents and vessels of the Achaians sought,

Exhorting all the Danaans; to the Trojans cares he
brought.

Idomeneus spear-famous came now upon him there, 210

Going from his companion who had just come from war

By sharp brass was he wounded in the leg, behind theknee. ;

So his companions bore him who, ordering carefully

The leeches who attended, came from his tent once more;

For he desired the battle again with longing sore. 215

But to him King Posidon, Earth-Shaker, then begun,
BOOK XIII 271

Taking the tone and voice of Thoas Andraimon’s son,
Who ruled o’er the Aitolians in lofty Kalydon
And in the whole of Pleuron, and godlike honour bore:
“Where have the threats evanished. O Kretan coun-
sellor, 220
Idomeneus, th’ Achaians against the Trojans made?”
To him in turn Idomeneus, the Kretan leader, said:
““O Thoas, no man the cause is, so far as I can see;
For all of us Achaians know war full skillfully;
And heartless Fear holds no one, and no one slothfully 225
Flies from destructive warring; yet some way it seems
thus
To be a thing most grateful to high prepotent Zeus,
For th’ Achaians to die inglorious afar from Argos’ shore.
Yet, Thoas (for you ever were brave in war before
And urged the others onward when you saw them
inert), 230
Do not now cease your efforts, but every man exhort,”
And next earth-shaking Neptune to him replied in turn:
“ Tdomeneus, from Troja let not that man return,
But let him be the sport of the dogs to his despite,

Who by his own volition is lax to-day in fight. 235
But come, your arms bring hither; there’s need for us to
haste,

If we are any profit, and we are two at least.

And virtue may be gathered from sorry men combined;

And we two know to battle with men of warlike mind.”

Thus saying, again the godhead to the toil of warriors

went.— 2.40

But when Idomeneus came to his well-constructed tent,

He put about his body fair arms, and two spears spanned,

And hastened, like the lightning, which Kronion, with his
hand

Seizing, darts with vibration from lit Olympus’ hight,

Showing a sign to mortals; for the rays are wondrous
bright; 245

Thus, while he ran, the brass shone which round his
breast was set.

But him his good attendant, Meriones then met

Still near the tent, for seeking a brazen spear he went;—
272 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The strength of King Idomeneus to him these accents sent:
“Merion, son of Molos, fleet-footed, friend most
dear, 250
Where do you go, thus leaving the war and battle here ?
Is it that you are wounded, and the spear-point grieves
with wear?
Or is it that some message for me you hither bear ?
Yet in my tent I wish not to sit, but fight with men.”
To him then prudent Merion in answer spoke again: 255
(‘‘ Idomeneus, bearing counsel to the Kretans brazen-
dressed],
I come, if any javelins within your quarters rest,
To seek one; that is broken which erst I had in use,
Flung hard against the buckler of fierce Deiphobos.”
To him in turn Idomeneus, the Kretan leader, said: 260
“Tf spears you wish, I’ve twenty and one more at your
stead,
Standing within my quarters against the shining wall,
Which I have ta’en from Trojans when they were slain in
moil,
For I fight not hostile warriors far distant on the fields.—
By this I have possession of spears and bossy shields 265
And helmets and cuirasses which radiant splendour shed.””
To him Meriones prudent again in answer said:
“In my tent and sable vessel are likewise at my beck
Full many a Trojan trophy, but are not near to take.
I say that I forget not to be of rushing might, 270
But ’mid the foremost warriors in fame-conferring fight
I stand, whenever rises war’s combat manifest.
It may be that some other of th’ Achaians brazen-dressed
May not observe me warring, but you, I think, have seen.”
To him the Kretan leader, Idomeneus, answered
keen: 275
“ T know full well your virtue; what need this to.expose ?
For if now by the vessels for ambuscade we chose
The best of all among us, where best men’s worth are
known,
And who may be a coward, and who is brave is shown
(For the colour of the -base one a thousand hues
express, 280
BOOK XIII 273

His heart within his bosom allows not quietness,

He changes his position and sits on both his feet;

The heart within his bosom throbs with a noisy beat,
While he’s thinking of destruction; and a gnash of teeth

appears.—
But the colour of the brave man shifts not, and nought he
fears, 285

When first he takes his station in the ambuscade of men,
But prays to combat quickly in the heavy battle then).
But no one could reproach you in hands or valour here;
Yet if you in the battle were struck from far or near,
The weapon did not strike you upon the neck or back, 290
But in the breast or entrails it met you in attack,
While you were going onward amid the foremost train.
But come, let us no longer speak of these things in vain,
Standing, lest, passing measure, someone may reprimand;
But you, going to the quarters, take a strong spear in
hand.” 295
Thus spoke he; and Meriones, to rapid Ares peer,
Went to his quarters quickly and took a brazen spear,
And went then with Idomeneus, desiring greatly war.
And thus man-slaying Ares goes to the fight afar,
Terror, his dear son with him, powerful, not knowing
fear, 300
Follows and fills with terror high chiefs with minds austere;
Thesetwo from Thrakia coming, with th’ Ephyri bear arms
Or with the great-souled Phlegyi; nor do they give their
harms
To both the hosts contending, but glory to one side;
Such Idomeneus and Merion, leaders of heroes, hied 305
On to the burning battle, with bright brass helmeted.
And first to him Meriones his thoughts in words conveyed:
“ Deukalides,* where think you to enter in the fight ?
Whether toward the middle or on all the army’s right,
Or farther to the leftward, since I believe that there 310
The hardest war is waging for th’ Achaianswith long hair.”
The Kretan chief, Idomeneus, to him these words pre-
ferred:
“‘ Among the middle vessels the others stand on guard,

*The son of Deukalion.
274 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

‘The two Ajaces, Teucer, in archery the best

Of the Achaians, brave and valiant in standing fight
infest; 315

Who will give sufficient toil to Hektor Priamides,

‘Though he is keen in warring, and very strong ’gainst
these.

Vor him ’t will be stern toil, though he much desires to
fight,

‘These warriors’ strength to conquer and their hands of
matchless might,

And set fire to the vessels; unless Kronion’s hand — 320

Casts on the rapid vessels ‘the brightly sparkling brand.

Great Telamonian Ajax ne’er to a warrior yields,

Who mortal is and eats of the fruit of Ceres’ fields,

Who may by brass be wounded or huge stones flung afar;

Nor yields he to Achilles breaking the ranks of war,— 325

At least in standing battle; with feet he strives not so.

‘Thus hold we to the leftward that soonest we may know

If we give others glory or it for us appear.”

Thus spoke he; and Meriones, to rapid Ares peer,

Went on and reached the army where he expressed

desire. 330
But when they* saw Idomeneus, in bravery like fire,

Himself and his attendant with dedal armour grim,

Exhorting through the tumult, they all advanced on him;

And rose a mighty battle beside the vessel’s poops.—

As when by shrill winds driven, the rapid whirlwind
stoops 335

‘That day when greatest dust on the well-worn roadway lies,

And, driven by the tempest, enormous dust-clouds rise;

Thus came the fight together; their mind’s desire was
strong

To slaughter one another with sharp brass in the throng.

The man-destroying battle with long spears bristled
there, 340,

Which they held fast, flesh-tearing; their eyes a brazen
glare

Dimmed; it was sent from helmets, glittering in splendour
sheen,

*The Trojans.
BOOK XIII 275

And corselets newly burnished, and bucklers shining keen,

As they came on together. His were intrepid breast,

Who gazed glad on such labour nor felt his mind dis-
tressed. 345

The two strong sons of Kronos, dissenting in the heart,

Constructed thus for heroes full many a grievous smart.

For Zeus desired the conquest on Hektor, Troy to fall,

To glorify fleet-footed Achilles; not at all

He wished th’ Achaian people to die at Ilion, 350

Yet glory gave to Thetis and her brave-minded son.

The Argives were incited by Neptune who had come

From the gray sea in secret; to see them thus succumb

To Trojans grieved him sorely, at Zeus he angered dire;

For both by birth were equal and had a single sire. 355

Yet Zeus was born the elder and greater knowledge swayed.

Neptune for this avoided the giving open aid,

But urged the people ever in secret (like a man).—

The line of powerful combat and war with equal ban

They with alternate changes to either side drew free, 360

Unbreaking and unloosing, which loosened many a knee.

Then Idomeneus, half-hoary, urged on the Danaan

might,

Rushing upon the Trojans, and turned them back in
flight.

For there he slew Othryoneus who from Kabesos came,

And came there newly, hearing much of their wars by
fame, 365

And sued for Priam’s daughter, the best of all in form,

Without a dower, Kassandra, and promised to perform

A mighty work—to drive back from Troy th’ Achaian
band.

Old Priam promised truly to give to him her hand;

And he fought on, confiding in the pledges which were
made. 370

Idomeneus aimed at him his shining spear displayed,

And struck him striding proudly; the brazen arms he
wore :

Sufficed not to repel it; the stomach’s midst it tore.

He made a thud in falling; he* boasted, saying then:

*Tdomeneus.
276 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“ Orthryoneus, I praise you above all mortal men, 375
If, truly you accomplish all the pledges false and wild
You made to Dardan Priam who promised you his child.
But now, what things we promise we will to you perform,
And give Atrides’ daughter, who fairest is in form
(Leading away from Argos), to wed, if you destroy, 380
With us allied, the city of many-peopled Troy.

But come to th’ ocean vessels, that a discourse be had
About the pact, we being, as sires-in-law, not bad.”
Saying thus, hero Idomeneus dragged by the foot the

slain

Amid the powerful battle. But Asios amain 385

Came there on foot to avenge him, before his steeds im-
pelled,

Whom, breathing on his shoulders, th’ attendant driver
held;

And he desired in spirit to smite Idomeneus,

Who struck him with the javelin (anticipating thus)

In throat beneath the chin and drove the brass through
quite. 390

He fell as falls an oak-tree or some tall poplar white,

Or as a pine tree lofty which men of craft have hewed

In mountains with sharp axes to be some vessel’s wood;

Thus he before his horses and chariot lay there spanned,

Gnashing his teeth and taking the bloody dust in hand. 395

His driver lost the senses which he before possessed,

And did not have the courage to fly the hostile quest

By turning back the horses. War-strong Antilochos

Transfixed his midst with javelin; and the <uirass of

brass
He wore did not defend him; in the stomach’s midst it
stayed; 400

And he, yet palpitating, fell from the car well-made.
The son of great-souled Nestor, Antilochos, drove amain
The horses from the Trojans to the Achaians’ well-
greaved train.
At Idomeneus, Deiphobos, approaching very near
And grieving much for Asios, flung with his shining
spear. 405
But Idomeneus beheld it, and shunned the spear of brass,
BOOK XIII 277

For he was well protected by the shield’s all-equal mass
He bore; and it was fashioned from oxen’s hides, arrayed
Deftly with brass resplendent, and with two handles made.
Beneath this all was sheltered; the brazen spear flew
o’er; 410
The shield resounded drily when the javelin grazed it sore.
Yet not in vain Deiphobos’ strong hand the javelin flung,
But Hippasides Hypenor, pastor of peoples, stung
*Neath the breast upon the liver; his knees were loosed

*neath him.
And loud Deiphobos boasted, shouting with accents
grim: 415

“ Not unavenged lies Asios; yet rather he, I trow,
To Hades’ massive mansion with powerful gates will go
Rejoicing in his spirit, since I have given a guide.”
Thus he; pain seized the Argives to hear him thus
deride,
But most the mind of warlike Antilochos it thrilled; 420
And, though he grieved, he left not his comrade on the
field,
But ran there to protect him and sheltered with his shield.
Yet his two dear companions to his assistance run
(They were divine Alastor and Mekisteus, Echios’ son),
And bore to the hollow vessels, groaning in disarrray. 425
Idomeneus ne’er slackened his mighty strength, but aye
Did he desire to cover some Trojan with dark night,*
Or fall with crash resounding, warding th’ Achaians’
blight.
Alkathoos, the hero, Zeus-bred Aisyetes’ son
(Who the daughter of Anchises to be his wife had won,430
Hippodamia, the eldest, who all the others passed,
Whom sire and honoured mother loved in their mansions
vast
Full well; for all her equals in age she much surpassed
In beauty, works and prudence; thus, her in marriage led
The best and bravest warrior in Ilion wide-spread).— 435
Him then, beneath Idomeneus, Posidon mastered there,
And dimmed his eyes resplendent and chained his mem-
bers fair.

*To kill.
278 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

For he nowise was able to turn aside or flee,

Yet like a silent pillar or as a high-leaved tree

He stood; his middle bosom Idomeneus with spear 440

Wounded and broke about him his brazen tunic sheer,

Which erstwhile from his body had kept black death at
bay;

But now i sounded drily as the spear cut on its way.

He fell with crash resounding; the spear fixed in his heart

Which, while it palpitated, shook the spear’s extremest
part; 445

But then impetuous Ares* relaxed in power at length.

And much Idomeneus boasted, shouting with all his
strength:

“ Deiphobos, do we think right, that it is fair in us

To kill three for one warrior; since you are boasting thus?

Yourself, unhappy hero, stand up against me here 450

And see that I of Zeus’s high lineage appear;

He first begot King Minos, who Kreta’s guardian shone;

And Minos for his son had blameless Deukalion;

Deukalion begot me, the king of many men

In wide-extending Kreta; the vessels brought again 455

Here to your sire an evil, to you and those of Troy.”

Thus spoke he; and Deiphobos considered in annoy:

Whether to seek some Trojan, great-souled, to help anon,

By turning back among them; or try them, though alone.

And thus, while he considered, it seemed to be the best 460

To seek at once Atneas; he Fuel him standing pressed

*Mid the last crowd; for ever he raged at Priam divine

Who him, being good ’mid warriors, did not due rank

assign.
He, standing close beside him, with winged words ad-
dressed:
“ Aineas, Trojan counsellor, it now beseems you
much 465

To aid your sister’s husband, if any care can touch.

Yet come to guard Alkathoos, who once while you were
small,

As husband to your sister, nurtured you in his hall;

Idomeneus spear-famous has just now slaughtered him.”

*The spear.
BOOK XIII 279

Thus he, and in his* bosom aroused a spirit grim. 470

‘Eneas sought Idomeneus, desiring much to fight.

But not like tender stripling was Idomeneus seized by
fright,

Yet stayed, like boar in mountains, confiding in his might,

Who waits the mighty tumult of men borne in attack

(Amid some place deserted), and bristles up his back; 475

Both eyes with flame are sparkling; he whets his teeth
again,

Desiring to fling backwara the dogs and eke the men;

Thus Idomeneus spear-famous did not go back but stayed

For war-swift Afneas, rushing; and called his friends to
aid,

Gazing upon Askalaphos, Aphareus, Deipyros, 480

Antilochos and Merion, in warring vigorous;

These he exhorted loudly and spoke with winged words
thus:

“Hither, my friends, and help me, who am alone;

I fear

Much fleet Aineas rushing, who comes upon me here;

And he ts very powerful to slaughter men in fight, 485

Is in the flower of manhood when greatest is man’s, might.

If we were agéd equal while such a soul I bear,

He would acquire great glory or I from him would tear.”

Thus spoke he; and they all had one only thought in

mind,
Stood near and from their shoulders their bucklers broad
inclined. 490

On the other hand Aéneas called to his comrades’ line,

Viewing Deiphobos, Paris and eke Agenor divine,

Who were the Trojan leaders with him; but after them

A mass of people followed, as sheep pursue a ram

From the field, to drink; the shepherd rejoices in his
mind; 495

Thus in 4’neas’ bosom a joy his soul entwined,

When he saw following after himself the people’s band.

But they around Alkathoos sought battle hand to hand

With lengthy spears; and sounded the brass about the

breast

*7Eneas’s.
280 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

With a terrific crashing, smit by the spears infest 500
They aimed at one another; two warriors prominent,
Eneas and Idomeneus, like Ares excellent,
Desired with brass unpitying each other’s flesh to tear.
neas first his javelin against _Idomeneus bare;
But he beheld it coming and shunned the brass spear
sent: 505
And Eneas’ spear vibrating into earth’s bosom went;
Thus then in vain the javelin his sturdy hand forsook.
But the Kretan Oinomaos in the middle stomach struck,
And burst the corselet’s hollow, and through the bowels

went forth
The brass; and, in dust falling, he seized with palm the
earth. 510

Idomeneus from the body drew his long-shadowed spear,

But by no means was able the other armour sheer

To tear off from his shoulders; for he by shafts was
pressed.

His ankle-joints no longer were firm for toil infest:

Neither to seek his javelin, nor keep the foe away. 515

Thus he in standing battle warded the fatal day,

For him no longer lightly his feet bore from the fight. —

While slowly he receded, a javelin shining bright

Deiphobos flung at him (for ever ire austere

He held ’gainst him), but missed him; yet Askalaphos
with spear, 520

The son of Enyalios, he struck; the javelin grand

The shoulder pierced; and, falling, he* seized earth with
his hand.

Not yet did loudly-shouting strong Ares know aright

That his own son had fallen amid the powerful fight;

Yet sat on high Olympus beneath fair clouds of gold, 525

Excluded from the battle, by Zeus’ designs controlled.

The other gods immortal were there, from warring
banned.—

But they around Askalaphos rushed, battling hand to

hand;

Deiphobos the helmet bright from Askalaphos took;

But, peer of rapid Ares, Meriones, rushing, struck 530

*Askalaphos.
BOOK XIII 281

His arm with brazen javelin; and, loosened from his hand,

The oblong helm fell earthward, resounding on the sand.

Meriones, like vulture, rushed on his foe anew

And from the lowest forearm his valid spear withdrew,

And went back to his comrades. But him* his brother
true, 535

Polites, there extending both hands around the waist,

Led from ill-echoing warring to the spot where had been
placed

His rapid steeds who waited behind the fight and war,

Having their chariot driver and variegated car.

They bore him to the city, groaning apace and worn; 540

And from his hand just wounded the flowing blood was
borne.

But the others kept on fighting, and rose a boundless

cry.
Then AEneas rushed on Aphareus, son of Kaletor high,
And in the throat (while turning to him) struck with sharp
spear

The head inclined one-sided, and shield and helmet
sheer 545

Clung to him; and around him death, slaying-life, bore
sway

Next Antilochos saw Thoon while he was turned away
And wounded, rushing on him, and cut off all the vein
Which through the back runs inward till it the neck at-

tain;
He shore the whole;  supinely Thoon fell in dust and
sands, 550

And to his dear companions extended both his hands.

Antiloches rushed on him, th’ arms from his shoulders
took,

Looking around; the Trojans, standing about him, struck

(First one and then another) his broad all-varied shield,

But could not mar the soft flesh of Antilochos afield 555

With cruel brass, for Neptune, Earth-Shaker, Nestor’s son

Guarded amid the tempest of many missiles thrown.

For he ne’er was free from foemen, ’mid whom his way he
took,

*Deiphobos.
282 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Nor held his spear in quiet, but ever turned and shook

It in the pressing tumult, and at his mind’s command 560

Prepared to fing the javelin or rush on hand to hand.
Yet, thinking thus, he ’scaped not Adamas in the field,

Asiades, who struck him in the middle of the shield

With sharp brass, rushing near him; the spear’s force

in the strife
Was dulled by blue-haired Neptune, who grudged to him

this life. 565
One half of it remained there, like stake fire-burned
around,

In Antilochos’s buckler; one half lay on the ground;

He* went back to his comrades to shun the black death
near.

But as he went Meriones followed and struck with spear

A span below the navel; and there the worst by far 570

Is wound received by mortals in miserable war.

There, then, was fixed the javelin; he fell on it and round

The javelin palpitated like ox in mountains bound,

Whom herdsmen lead unwilling, by force, with twisted
thong;

Thus he, struck, panted shortly (it was not very long), 575

Till hero Merion, going anear his agonies,

The spear drew from the hody; and darkness veiled his
eyes.

But Helenos the temple of Deipyros smote near
With mighty Thrakian falchion, and cut off the helmet

sheer;

And this, cast off, fell earthward; one of th’ Achaians who
fought 580

(While ’mid his feet ’t was rolling), delayed in flight and
caught.

But night with dusky shadows concealed hisf eyes’ bright
glare.

Yet grief seized on Atrides Menelaos, good in war,
With threats against the hero, King Helenos, he flew,
Brandishing his sharp javelin; his bow’s horn th’ other

drew. 585
And both thus came together, while one desired to fling

*Adamas. _— fDeipyros.
BOOK XIII 283

His spear acutely-pointed; the other, shaft from string;
Priamides the hollow of the corselet on his breast
Struck with the pointed arrow; that the bitter shaft re-

pressed.
As when beneath the ample fan on some threshing
floor 590
The black-skinned beans or vetches leap, in abundant
store,

Beneath the blast shrill-sounding and the winnower’s
impulse sore;

E’en thus from the cuirass of Menelaos, famed in war,

By mighty force rejected, the bitter shaft flew far.

Axrides Menelaos, impetuous ’gainst the foe, 595

Struck him upon the hand which held fast the polished
bow;

And through the hand was driven to the bow the brazen
spear.

He* went back to his comrades, shunning the black fate
near,

Hanging his hand and dragging behind the ashen spear.

But this great-souled Agenor at once drew from his
hand 600

And bound the wound together with well-twisted woolen
band

(Like sling), which his attendant for the people’s pastor
held.

Straight ’gainst famed Menelaos Pisander was impelled;
Whom the evil fate of death led on to the end of all,—
Before you, Menelaos in dreadful fight to fall. 605
And when they, going together, were to each other near,
In truth Atrides missed him, for turned aside his spear;
But Pisander struck the shield of Menelaos glorious,

Yet by no means was able to drive quite through the brass.

The broad shield held the javelin; at its extremity 610

The spear broke; with glad spirit het hoped for victory.

Atrides drew his falchion, which silver studs revealed,

And rushed upon Pisander who took from ’neath his
shield

A beauteous ax, well-brazen, which a long handle took,

*Helenos. +Pisander.
284 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Of olive deftly-polished; at once both heroes struck. 615

Then Pisander shore the crest off the helm with dense
horse hair,

Under the crested summit; but Menelaos there

Struck him upon the forehead at the extremest nose,

As he approached; and sounded the bones which there
oppose;

Both bloody eyes fell earthward before his feet in dust; 620

He writhed full sore in falling. His heel the other thrust

Upon the breast, despoiling his arms with proud discourse:

“Do you leave thus the vessels of the Danaans with

swift horse,”

Ye haughty-minded Trojans, sateless of baleful war?

In other wrong and insult you nowise lacking are, 625

With which, foul dogs, you wronged me; nor did you fear
in mind

High-thundering Jove’s dire anger, who is to guest-friends
kind,

Who will, for your transgression, destroy your city high. —

You took my wedded consort and stores of wealth thereby,

And recklessly departed thoughthey received with care630

And now within the vessels, which o’er the ocean fare,

You wish to slay th’ Achaians and cast destroying fire.

Yet shall you cease from warring, though great be your
desire.

Zeus Sire, they say your wisdom excels the minds of all

‘The men and gods, yet from you all of these things
befal. 635

Thus now these haughty Trojans you gratify withal,

Whose strength is ever daring in wrong, who never can

Be satisfied with warring in war with equal ban.

In all there is repletion. In sleep and love’s romance,

In dulcet song and chorus, and in the blameless dance. 640

A man would seek for fulness sooner in these by far

Than warring; but the Trojans are insatiable of war.”

Thus saying, from the body the bloody arms withdrew

Illustrious Menelaos and gave his comrades true:

Himself again went forward ’mid the foremost com-
bating. 645

*By being slain.
BOOK XIII 285

But next Harpalion, son of Pylaimenes, the King,

Attacked him, With his father he sought the Trojan
plain

Vor warring, but returned not to his fatherland again;

He struck Atrides’ buckler in the midst, as near he drew,

With spear, but was not able to drive the brass quite
through; 650

He went back ’mid his comrades, his fate avoiding thus,

Gazing in all directions, lest someone strike with brass

His body. But Meriones a brazen shaft let slip

At him going back, and struck him upon the dexter hip;

The arrow pierced the bladder beneath the bone laid

bare. 655

In the hands of his dear comrades at once he sunk down
there,

Breathing away his spirit; he lay like worm stretched
forth

Upon the ground; the sable blood flowed and wet the
earth.

The great-souled Paphlagonians did every care employ

And placed him on his chariot and led to sacred Troy, 660

By torment racked. His father went with them, and
amain

Shed tears; yet never vengeance for his dead son was ta’en.

But Paris’ mind was angered much for the hero slain,

Who ’mid the Paphlagonians to him a guest was brought;

For this he, touched by anger, a brass-tipped arrow
shot.— 665

A certain man, Euchenor, was seer Polyidos’ son,

And was both good and wealthy and dwelt in Corinth’s
town,

Who knew his fate destroying when on the ships he sped.

For oft good Polyidos, the ancient, to him said

That he at home would perish, smit by a sickness rude, 670

Or ’mid th’ Achaian vessels by those of Troy subdued;

The heavy fine he ’scaped thus which the Achaians as-
signed*

And dire disease, nor suffered the sorrows in his mind.

And he by Paris’ arrow ’neath jaw and ear was struck,

*For not going to war.
286 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And life soon left his members, and hated darkness

took. 675
Thus then they kept on fighting like sparkling fire aglow.

But Zeus-loved Hektor knew not, by no means did he know

- That by the vessels leftward the people died in war

By the Argives, and th’ Achaians soon victory would bear;

For so earth-girdling Neptune urged th’ Argives on to
fight, 680

And aided them in combat with his own strength and
might.

Yet Hektor held where first he the gates and wall had
passed,

Breaking the densest phalanx of bucklered Danaans fast.

There were the ships of Ajax, and Protesilaos’ own

Upon the shelving border of the hoary ocean drawn; 685

Above, the wall was fashioned there at its lowest hight;

And there the men and horses were fiercest in the fight.

And there were the Boeotians and Jaonians with robes

long,

And Lokrians and Phthians and Epeians great and strong,

Guarding with zeal the vessels from him who, rushing,

came, 690
But could not push back Hektor divine, like sparkling
flame.

Th’ Athenians’ chosen warriors among the foremost shone,

And all their force commanded Menestheus, Peteus’ son;

With him there followed Phidas, brave Bias, Stichios.—

Th’ Epeians were ruled by Meges Phylides, Drakios 695

And Amphion. O’er the Phthians war-strong Podarkes
sate

With Medon, Ajax’ brother, son illegitimate

Of Oileus, like a godhead; in Phylaké he dwelled

Far from his native country, for he a man had killed,

Brother of his step-mother, Eriopis, who was won 700

By Oileus in marriage. Podarkes was the son

Of Iphiklos, in the city of Phylaké begot.

Thus they before the Phthians, great-souled, in arms well-
wrought

Kept guard before the ships and ’mid Boeotians fought.

But Ajax in no manner, Oileus’ rapid son, 705
BOOK XIII 287

Went from, though but a moment, great Ajax Telamon;
Yet as the wine-dark oxen drag on the well-joined plough
In fallow with like spirit; and all around the brow

The streams of sweat abundant around the horn’s

base start,
And but the yoke well-polished keeps the two steers
apart, 710
Going along the furrows; and the plough the deep corn
land

Divides; thus stood together these two on either hand.
And with the Telamonian were people many and skilled,
Who followed as companions and took from him his

shield,
When toil and labour wore him, and sweat o’erflowed his
knees. I

But the Lokrians did not follow great-souled Oiliades;
For not to standing battle their constant spirits bare,
Since they had no brazen helmets, crested with dense
horse hair,
And had no shields well-circled nor ashen spears for fight;
Yet they in bows confiding and twisted wool slings
dight, 720
Followed the chief to Ilion, and with their frequent stroke
Against the hostile warriors the Trojan phalanx broke.
Vanward the two Ajaces, in dedal armor dressed,
Fought Hektor and the Trojans in brass arms manifest.
The hidden Lokrians shot them; the Trojans naught of
war 725
Remembered, much confused by the arrows shot afar.
Then had with dire destruction the Trojans fled anon,
From the tents and from the vessels, to wind-swept Ilion,
Had not by daring Hektor Polydamas stood and said:
“ Hektor, by wholesomecounsel your spirit isnot led. 730
Because a god has made you in works of warring best,
For this, do you in counsel wish to excel the rest ?
In nowise are you able for everything to care.
To one a god has given to shine in works of war;
[Another he gave dancing; another, harp and song,] 735
And in another’s bosom Zeus, thundering far and strong,
Placed valid understanding whence many men are blest;
288 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And such has saved e’en cities; who owns it knows this
best.

But now | tell you plainly as best it seems to me,

For all around the garland of war is burning free. 740

The mighty-minded Trojans, since o’er the wall they bore,

Hold off beneath their armour or fewer fight with more,

Scattered among the vessels. Yet here the chieftains call

Going back, that we consider what is the best of all:

Whether amid the vessels of many banks we fall, 745,

If some kind godhead wishes the victory to bestow,

Or if now from the vessels we, while uninjured, go.—

I fear lest the Achaians be paid for yester’s pains,

Since in the ships a hero, sateless of war, remains;

I think that he no longer will from all battle hold.” 750

Polydamas thus; the faultless advice pleased Hektor

bold,

[At once, then, from his chariot in arms he leapt to earth},

And, after he bespoke him with wingéd words broke

forth:
“ Polydamas, remain here and keep here all the best;
But I will hasten hither to meet the war infest; 755

”

Yet I again will come back when I commands bestow.
Thus spoke he, and rushed onward, like mountain

topped with snow,

Shouting, and through the Trojans and the allies he flew.

And all around Polydamas, the son of Panthos, drew

(Lover of manly virtue), when they heard Hektor’s
cry. 760

He* went amid the vanguard, seeking if he could spy

Deiphobos and, with him, the force of Helenos,

And Adamas and Asios, the son of Hyrtakos.

But some he found no longer uninjured, yet unslain;

And some lay by the vessels of the Achaian train, 765

Beneath the hands of Argives deprived of cherished life,

And some were in the rampart, or shot or struck in strife:

But quickly to the leftward of the tearful battle’s line

He found the lord of Helen well-haired, King Paris divine.

Encouraging his comrades, and urging on to fight. 770

But, standing close beside him, he with reproaches hight,

*Hektor.
BOOK XIII 289

“Tll-Paris, best in beauty, erotic, false, perverse,
Where are divine Deiphobos and King Helenos’s force,
Where Adamas Asiades and Asios, Hyrtakos’ son,

And where is eke Orthryoneus? Now all high Ilion 775
Sinks from its loftiest summit, and sure is ruin high.”

Then godlike Alexander in turn made this reply:

“ Hektor your spirit blames me when I no blame should
bear;

Another time more careless may I have been in war;

Not now, for not unwarlike in all my mother bore.— 780

Since first you roused our comrades to war by ships and
shore,

Since then a ceaseless battle we with the Danaans fought;

And those, our friends, have perished whom even now you
sought.

I think that now Deiphobos and King Helenos’s might

Have gone, both sorely wounded, by the long javelin’s
flight 785

In the hand; but great Kronion kept off destruction dire.

Yet now, lead on wherever your heart and soul inspire,

And we will promptly follow; and we in naught, I trow,

Will lack in eager virtue, so far as strength may go.

Beyond our strength we cannot, though very eager,
war.” 7

So saying, the chief persuasion to his brother’s spirit

bare,

They hastened where the battle and greatest combat
rolled,

Around Polydamas blameless and Kebriones all-bold,

Round Phalkes and Orthraios and Polyphetes run,

Palmys, Askanios, Morys, sons of Hippation; 795

They from Askania fertile had come the day before

To take their turn in warring; and Zeus to battle bore.

Like the dire breath of whirlwind they rushed along amain,

Which ’neath Sire Zeus’s thunder rushes upon the plain,

And with a mighty tumult is mingled with the main; 800

And many billows boil up from the many-sounding sea,

Swollen and white with foam-caps, and throng on angrily;

Thus some Trojans pressed together, arrayed for battle’s
force,
290 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Then more in brass resplendent followed their leader’s
course.
And Hektor led them, equal to Ares homicide, 805
Priamides; before him he held his buckler wide,
All-equal, thick with ox-hides, with much of brass o’erlaid,
And round about his temples his glittering helmet swayed;
And, to all sides advancing, the phalanxes he tried,
To see if they would face him beneath his buckler wide;810
Yet he confused the spirit in no Achaian breast.
But Ajax first, advancing with mighty strides, addressed:
“OQ fatuous, come on nearer; why thus the Argives
fright ?
For we in powerful battle are not unskilled to fight.
Yet we Achaians are mastered by Zeus with evil
whips.— 815
Your soul, perhaps, is filled with the hope to take the ships;
But here our hands are ready to ward you from the shore.
And your well-peopled city, it may be, long before
Will by our hands be taken, and in its ruins lie.
For you yourself, I say that the time is coming nigh 820
When, flying, you will pray to the other gods and Jove,
That your fair-maned horses bear you swifter than hawks
above,—
Bearing you to the city in dust along the plain.”
While thus he spoke, full dexter a bird flew o’er the
train—
A lofty-flying eagle; a shout th’ Achaians sped, 825
Glad at the sign; in answer illustrious Hektor said:
“ Babbler and boaster, Ajax, what was this speech you
made?
Would that I were as certain for all my days to be
Son of Zeus aegis-bearing with Hera mother to me,
And that I were as honoured as Pallas and Phoebus
are, 830
As now this day shall evil to all the Argives bear;
And with them you shall perish, if ever you shall dare
To wait for my long javelin, which your body delicate
Will rend; but Trojan vultures and dogs yourself will sate
With flesh and fatness, falling amid th’ Achaian ships.”’835
Thus saying, he led onward; and from the people’s lips,
BOOK XIII 291

Who followed, rose great clamour, and the troops cried
out behind.

*Gainst them the Argives shouted and lost not constant
mind;

They waited for the Trojans, attacking with their best.—

The cry of both reached ether and Jove’s splendour mani-
fest. 840

BOOK XIV

THE DECEPTION OF ZEUS.

The shout did not ’scape Nestor, though drinking with
his guest
Yet he to Asklepiades* these wingéd words addressed:
“Think now, divine Machaon, what are these works
in truth,
For at the vessels greater is the shout of blooming youth.
But sit here now and drink of the cup of sparkling wine, 5
Till well-haired Hekamedé the heated bath assign;
Then you may wash your body from the bloody tabes’ flow,
But I go to a watch-tower and quickly all will know.”
Thus saying, he took the buckler good of his son afield,
Horse-taming Thrasymedes’ who had his father’s shield.10
He took a valid javelin, pointed with the sharp brass,
And stood outside the quarters and soon saw the shameful
ass :—
The haugthy-minded Trojans were thundering in the rear,
Th’ Achaians, in confusion, their wall, in ruins drear.
As when the great sea darkens along the silent wave, 15
Presaging the swift pathways of winds which shrilly rave;
No billow rolling forward or backward o’er it tends,
Before the blast selected by Zeus on it descends;
Thus did the ancient ponder, hovering ’twixt doubtful
ends,—
Whether the swift-horsed Danaans’ assembly to invoke, 20
Or Atrides Agamemnon, the pastor of the folk,

*Machaon.
292 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

While thus he meditated, it seemed the better view
To go to Agamemnon.—But they* each other slew;
The solid brass which girded the fenceless body round,
By two-edged spears and swords struck, gave a sonorous
sound. 25
But the Zeus-nurtured monarchs met Nestor in the pass,
Ascending from the vessels—all who were smit by brass:—
Atrides Agamemnon, Diomed, Odysseus’ might.—
For the ships were drawn far distant from the now raging
fight,
On the shore of hoary ocean; for these the first of all 30
They drew ashore and builded along the sterns a wall.
And, though the strand was spacious, the seashore could
not hold
Their vessels, and the people were crowded manifold;
And thus in ranks they drew them and filled the harbour
wide
Of all the shore to headlands which rose on either side. 35
Thus these had come together, leaning on spears for rest,
To see the war and tumult, with grieved minds in the breast.
But meeting ancient Nestor, their souls were thrilled by
dread.
And, after he addressed him, King Agamemnon said:
“O Nestor, son of Neleus, the Achaians’ glory great, 40
Why leave war man-destroying to come to our debate?
I fear lest fiery Hektor accomplish now his word,
Which once amid the Trojans with menace he preferred :—
That not from ’mid the vessels to Ilion would he come,
Ere with fire he burned the vessels and gave ourselves
black doom. 45
Thus spoke he in haranguing; now all that end attain.
Ye gods, in sooth the others of the well-greaved Argive
train
*Gainst me in mind are angered (e’en as Achilles burns),
And wish no more to battle beside the vessel’s sterns.”
Gerenian horsemean, Nestor, to him this answer sent: 50
“The very things you speak of pass to accomplishment,
Nor could their course be altered by Zeus high-thundering

even;
*The combatants.
BOOK XIV 293

For the wall now lies in ruins, to which our trust was
given,

Which we held for men and vessels a guard inviolate.

Yet they by the swift vessels hold battle obstinate, 55

Nor might you well distinguish, though looking much about,

On which side the Achaians are most confused in rout,

They die in such confusion, while the shouts to heaven
ascend.

But let us now consider what way these things will end,

If advice bring any profit; I do not bid you war; 60

For thé wounded are not able to fight in battle’s jar.”

Now him in turn then answered Atrides, king of men,

“ Nestor, since by the sterns of the ships they fight amain,

And the wall helped not when builded, and the trench by
it designed,

For which the Danaans suffered much, hoping in their

mind 65
That for them and for the vessels a firm defence ’t would
bring;

It seems to Zeus prepotent, in sooth, a grateful thing

For th’ Achaians to die inglorious, afar from Argos, here.
For I know when he was willing the Danaans aid to bear,
And I know that now he honours the Trojans like the

gods, 7O
But binds our rushing valour, our strength and hands
corrodes.

But come, and as I tell you, let all list to my plea:—

Let us drag down all vessels which are close beside the sea

And, drawing forward, launch them upon the ocean brine,

And moor them high at anchor till comes the night
divine;—

If the Trojans cease from warring, we may launch all in
the line.

There’s no shame in flying evil, e’en if it be at night.

Better to fly from evil than be captured in the fight.”

Then, gazing on him grimly, wily Odysseus said:

“ Atrides, what a speech from your hedge of teeth has
fled! 80

Lost one! Would you commanded some worthless band,
in sooth,
294 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And did not thus rule o’er us, to whom Zeus gave from
youth

To age to wage stern battle, till each of us shall die.

Would you thus leave the Trojans’ wide-streeted city high,

For which in pain we suffered so many an evil bale? 85

Be silent! Lest some other of th’ Achaians hear this tale,

Which ne’er a man should suffer beyond his mouth to
stray,

Who in his understanding knows what is fit to say,

And who is scepter-bearer, and whom so many obey,

As those among the Argives you ruled and hither led; 90

[And now I blame your judgment for the words which you
have said;]

For you bid us, while the battle and war are raging free,

To draw the well-banked vessels down to the barren sea,

That the wishes of the Trojans may better thus befal

(Though they throughout are victors, and high ruin o’er
us fall.)

For th’ Achaians will not keep warring when the ships are
drawn asea,

But will look about behind them and from the combat flee.

Your counsel will be noxious, O people’s leader, then.”

To him in turn made answer Agamemnon, king of men:

“ Odysseus, much my spirit you touch with reprimand.100

Th’ Achaians’ sons, unwilling, I by no means command

To drag the well-banked vessels down to the ocean swell.

Would that there were some counsellor better advice to
tell;

If younger or if elder, to me ’t were solace high.”

Then ’mid them spoke Tydides, good at the battle

cry: 105

“ That man is close beside you—we need not long inquire,

If you wish to be persuaded and are not roused by ire;

Since I by birth am youngest among you here by me,

Yet from a valiant father I boast myself to be.

[Tydeus, o’er whom in Thebai the heaped-up earth was
borne.] 110

For once to noble Portheus three blameless sons were born,

Who made their home in Pleuron and Kalydon’s steep
hight:—
BOOK XIV 295

. ‘grios and great Melas; the third was Oineus, knight,

‘Vhe father of my father, in valour eminent.

And he, in truth, remained there, but my sire to Argos
went 115

In exile; for Zeus willed it, and all the other gods.

He wed Adrastos’ daughter and dwelt in his abodes,

In wealth, rich, and sufficient he had of corn-land trim;

And many fertile gardens of plants were spread round him.

And many herds he mastered and passed th’ Achaians
all 120

In spear-skill; you should know it, since it is true withal.

Thus think not I am evil by birth, unwarlike even,

Nor disregard the counsel which I have justly given.

Come, let us go to battle from hard necessity,

Though wounded, keeping shelter through the hos-

tility 125
From weapons (lest among us some wound on wound
receive),

And, inciting, urge the others, who ere this a reprieve
Bore to their minds by standing aloof and fought not
fain.”
Thus he; and much they listened and all obeyed him then
And hastened forth; and led them Agamemnon, king of
men. 130
Th’ illustrious Earth-Shaker had kept no idle guard,
But, seeming like an old man, he met them as they fared;
The right hand of Atrides Agamemnon now he took
And, after he addressed him, with wingéd words bespoke:
“ Atrides, now most surely Achilles’ wrathful heart 135
Rejoices in his bosom to see th’ Achaians smart
In grievous flight and slaughter; his mind is all perverse.
Thus may he evilly perish and may a godhead curse.
With you not altogether the happy gods are wroth;
But yet, I think, the Trojans’ leaders and chieftains

both 140
Will fill the plain with dust-clouds; and you will see them
blent

In flight toward the city, from vessel and from tent.”
Thus saying, he shouted loudly and rushed upon the
plain.
296 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He shouted as nine thousand or e’en ten thousand men
In warring, brought together in Ares’ strife infest; 145
Such voice the King earth-shaking sent from his mighty
breast,
And cast great force and spirit in each Achaian heart,
That they in war and battle might take unending part.
But golden-throncd Hera gazed downward with her

eyes
From Olympus’ highest summits, and saw him (from the
skies) 150

Toiling amid the battle which warriors glorifies

(Her brother-in-law and brother), and she in mind was
glad.

Then she beheld Zeus sitting on the highest peak which
had

Ida, of many fountains, and loathed him in her mind.

Then ox-eyed reverenced Hera with care a plan de-
signed 155

To cheat full well the spirit of aegis-bearing Zeus.

And in her mind this counsel appeared the best for use:—

To go to Ida’s mountain, adorning every charm,

So he might wish in loving to lie beside her form;

Thus she might pour around him harmless and pleasant
sleep, 160

And o’er his eyes and eyelids and mind of prudence deep.

She went within her chamber which her dear son had
made,

Hephaistos, who dense portals in the door-posts had
arrayed

With secret bolt; no other of the gods could disunite.

Here entering, she closed up the portals shining bright. 165

And first her lovely body she cleansed from every soil

With an ambrosial lotion, anointing with rich oil,

Ambrosial and all-pleasant, and which an odour bore,

So when she moved in Zeus’s mansion with brazen floor,

The odour reached to earth and e’en to heaven fair. 170

Thus she her beauteous body anointed, and her hair

Combed and the shining tresses were plaited by her hands,

Fair and ambrosial, flowing from her head in deathless
strands.
BOOK XIV 207

She put on th’ ambrosial garment, Athena for her made
And polished to a luster, with much dedal work dis-

played; 175
She clasped with golden buckles the robe about her
breast,
And girt herself with girdle which a hundred tassels
dressed;

And placed her three-gemmed earrings, wrought into
priceless worth,

Into her well-pierced ear-lobes; and many a grace shone
forth.

Then the divine of goddesses a veil o’er all put on, 180

Beauteous and newly-fashioned and radiant as the sun;

Beneath her feet smooth-shining she bound her sandals
fair.—

When she had placed about her all her adornments rare,

She hastened from her chamber and Aphrodité pressed

Far from the other godheads and’ with this speech ad-

dressed: / 185
“To what I say, dear daughter, would you lend favour
kind,

Or would you fain deny me from anger in your mind,
Because I help the Danaans, and you the Trojans aid ?”
Jove’s daughter, Aphrodité, to her this answer made:
“QO reverenced goddess, Hera, daughter of Kronos
great, 190
Speak what you wish; my spirit bids me accommodate,
If I have power to compass, and if it may be sped.”
Then reverenced Hera, planning her guile, in answer

said:

“ Give that desire and passion with which you hold in
thrall

All of the gods immortal and mortal men withal. 195

For I go the farthest limits of the bounteous earth to view,

And Ocean, sire of godheads, and mother Tethys, too;

Who bred me in their mansions and reared with care
profuse,

Receiving me from Rheia, when widely-thundering Zeus

Cast Kronos under earth and beneath the barren sea; 200

These, now, I go to visit and loose th’ infinity
298 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Of strifes. For long already have each of them declined

The marriage-bed and loving; since ire fell on their mind,

If, by my words persuading, I might the twain’s hearts
move

To share their couch together and join again in love, 205

By them were I called ever beloved and well-revered.”

Laughter-loving Aphrodité to her these words preferred:
“ °T were not allowed nor seeming to gainsay your request;
For you slumber in the arms of Zeus who is far the best.’

Thus she, and from her bosom the broidered cestus

loosed, 210
Varied, whence all allurements of passion are produced;
It held desire and loving, and love’s converse confined,
Seductive speech which slyly steals e’en the prudent mind.
As in her hands this cestus she put, she thus addressed:

“Take now this varied cestus and place it in your

breast; 215
In it all things are hidden; I think you will not find
The object unaccomplished which you desire in mind.”

Thus she; and ox-eyed Hera, revered, her smiles ex-

pressed
And, smiling, placed the cestus at once within her breast.

Jove’s daughter Aphrodité, went to her palace dight; 220
But Hera hastened onward and left Olympus’ height,
And, passing o’er Pieria and fair Emathia, so
Came to th’ equestrian Thrakians’ high mountains clad in

snow
To the very highest summits, nor touched earth with feet

free;
Then she went forth from Athos upon the billowy sea, 225
And came to island Lemnos, the city of Thoas divine.
There she encountered Slumber, the brother of Death
malign;
Him with her hand she clung to and spoke the word, saying
then:

“ Sleep, King of all the godheads as well as of all men,
If e’er you heard my wishes, now once again obey, 230
And I will hold you grateful until my latest day.

The bright eyes ’neath Jove’s eyelids close for my sake in
sleep,
BOOK XIV 299

While I lie yet beside him in love and loving deep,

And I will give as present forever undefiled,

A throne all-beauteous, golden, which Vulcan, my dear
child, 235

Lame in both feet, shall labour and give to you complete;

Upon it you, in feasting, may place your shining feet.”

To her in turn responded in answer Sleep sedate:
“O Hera, reverenced goddess, daughter of Kronos great,

If it were any other of the eternal gods, 240
Well might I soothe to slumber, though it were e’en the
floods

Of the great river Ocean, who is the sire of all.

But not to Zeus Kronion would I approach withal,

Nor would I lull to slumber unless himself had told.

For once before your mandate instructed me o’erbold 245

That day when the high-minded son of Zeus, Herkules,

(Who the Trojans’ town had ruined), sailed from Ilion on
the seas.

Then sooth, I lulled to slumber aegis-bearing Zeus’s mind,

Poured round about him gently, while you his* ills de-

signed,

Exciting on the ocean the winds of rushing force, 250

And then to Kos well-peopled you bore him* from his
course,

Far from his friends and comrades. But Zeus awoke
distraught

By rage; he flung the godheads about his house and sought

Me most, and from the ether had cast in ocean then

Lost me, had not Night saved me, Mistress of gods and
men; 255

To her I came in flying; he stopped, though all irate.

For he feared that he should compass deeds to rapid
Night ingrate.

And now again you bid me this other danger try.”

Then ox-eyed, reverenced Hera to him said in reply:
“O Sleep, why in your spirit are thoughts like these ar-

rayed ? 260
Think you that Zeus, wide-thundering, bears to the Tro-
jans aid

*Herkules,
300 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And zeal as when he angered for Hercules his son?
But come, and I will give you to wed a younger one
Of the Graces; and your consort shall she be called for
aye.
[Pasithea, for whom ever you long for every day.”] 265
Thus she; and Sleep was gladdened by the answer
which she gave:
‘* Come now, and vow this to me by th’ inviolate Stygian
wave;
ind with one hand lay hold of the many-feeding earth,
And on the marble ocean let the other hand go forth;
That all the nether godheads who are round Kronos’
throne 270
Be witnesses before us to guard the vows we own:—
That you will give a younger of the Graces to my sway,
Pasithea, whom I hope for and long for every day.”
Thus he; and white-armed Hera, goddess, obedience

bore,
And vowed as he had ordered; by all the gods she
swore, 275

Who are the Sub-Tartarean and whom men Titans call.
But when she vowed and ended the firmest oath of all,
They from the town of Lemnos and Imbros went away,
Wrapped in dusk air, and lightly sped forth upon their
way.
They came to fount-rich Ida, mother of monsters curst,280
To Lektos, where the ocean they left behind them first;
Both went on land; the forest high ’neath their feet shook

free. 1

And there Sleep stayed in waiting, before Zeus’ eyes might
see

A lofty fr ascending, which then the tallest grew,

Amid the firs of Ida, through air to ether true. 285

There sat he densely covered by boughs of fir-trees tall,
Like that bird with shrill accents which godheads chalkis
call,
Which lives amid the mountains; kumindis named by
men.
But Hera went forth quickly to lofty Gargaros then,
The top of highest Ida; cloud-gathering Zeus beheld. 290
BOOK XIV 301

When first he saw her passion his prudent spirit quelled,

Such as when first together they came in love sincere,

To secret couch retiring; nor knew their parents dear.

But he stood just before her and spoke the word and said:
“Hera, why from Olympus have you so quickly

sped ? 295
Your horses are not with you nor the car on which you
ride.”

To him, guile meditating, Hera revered replied:
“T go the farthest limits of the bounteous earth to view,
And Ocean, sire of godheads and mother Tethys, too;
Who bred me in their mansions and reared with care

profuse; 300 -

These, now, I go to visit and countless strifes to loose.
Since very long already have each of them declined
Their marriage-bed and loving; for ire fell on their mind.
My horses at the lowest of fount-rich Ida stand,
Who will bear me bravely onward o’er wet wave or arid

land. 3C5
I now come here to seek you, from Olympus’ summit
grand,

Lest you sometime be angry if I in secret go
To the palaces of Ocean, whose currents deeply flow.’
But Zeus cloud-gathering answered in his reply to her:

“ Hera, a later season will come to journey there; 310

But come, let us together in loving be reclined.

For never thus the love of goddess or womankind

Poured round about me, mastered the mind within my
breast;

Not when I loved the wife of Ixion manifest,

Who bore to me Pirithoos, counsellor like a god; 315

Nor when, fair ankled Danaé, born of Akrisios’ blood,

Who bore to me great Perseus, most famous of all men;

Nor when the far-famed daughter of Phoinix met my ken,

Who bore divine Rhadamanthus and Minos eke to me;

Nor when I loved in Thebai Alkmen’ and Semelé; — 320

The first one bore me Herkules, my son of daring mind;

Semelé bore me Bacchus, a joy to mortal kind;

Nor when I loved Demeter, Queen with the beauteous
hair;

’
302 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Nor when to glorious Leto and yourself e’en love I bare,
As now I love you fiercely, and sweet desire holds me.”” 325
To him, guile meditating, Hera revered made plea:
“Most reckless son of Kronos, what is this speech you

said!
Tf now you wish in loving to seek a common bed
Upon the top of Ida, conspicuous in all modes,

How would it be if someone of the eternal gods 330
Should see us while we slumbered and all the gods should
show ?

Then, nowise could I venture within your hall to go,

When I from bed had risen: ’t would be with shame
combined.

Yet if you really wish it, and ’t is grateful to your mind,

You have a chamber ready which your dear son has

made, 335
Hephaistos, and thick portals in the door-posts has ar-
rayed; ‘

There let us go for slumber, since you by love are led.”
Then great Zeus, cloud-compelling, to her in answer

said:
“ Hera, fear not that godhead or man will be allowed
To see; for I will cover with such a golden cloud 340

That Helios shall not see us while we together be,
Whose sight is very piercing in its sharp power to see.’
Thus saying, the son of Kronos seized in his arms his
wife;
The earth divine beneath them to freshest grass give life,
And dewy lotos, crocus and hyacinth sent forth, 345
All soft and densely spreading, which raised them high
from earth.
Thus were they couched together; the cloud above
wrapped well,
All-beauteous and golden, and glittering dewdrops fell.
Thus, silent slept the Father where Gargaros loftiest

swelled,
Mastered by sleep and loving; his wife in arms he
held. 350

Then to th’ Achaians’ vessels sweet Sleep ran on his way
To earth-surrounding Neptune a message to convey.
BOOK XIV 303

And, standing close beside him with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“ Be forward now, Posidon, to aid the Danaans pressed,
And give them fame, though little, while Zeus is sleeping
yet; 355
Since [a veil of slumber soft have around him set;
And Hera in swect loving deceived him so he slept.”
Thus saying, to the famed nations of men his path he
kept,
Yet more had urged Posidon to aid the Danaan band.
At once far ’mid the vanguard he* rushed and gave com-
mand: 360
“ Argives, do we grant Hektor the victory again,
That he may take the vessels and lustrous glory gain?
Yet this he says in boasting, since Achilles stays apart
Beside the hollow vessels with anger in his heart.
But you for this great warrior shall feel no great desire, 365
If we urge one another and mutual aid inspire.
But come, and as I tell you, let all of you obey.
Clad in the largest bucklers and best in the array,
With heads concealed by helmets emitting blazing light,
In hand our long spears holding, let us go forth to
fight; 370
And I will lead you onward; Hektor Priamides’ fire,
I think will not await us, though he have much desire.
. [What man is strong in battle and has a little shield,
Let him procure a greater and his to weaker yield.]”
Thus he; and well they heard him and their obedience
bore. 375
The kings themselves arrayed them, though they were
wounded sore:—
Atrides Agamemnon, Odysseus, Diomed,
And changed, amid all going, their martial arms outspread.
The good put on the best arms and worse to weak men

gave.
But when around the body they’d put brass shining
brave, 380

They went on, and Posidon earth-shaking led the band,
Holding in his hand valid a long and dreadful brand,

*Posidon.
304 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Like lightning (’t is not lawful to strive ’gainst this in fight
Destructive, yet the warriors avoid, restrained by fright).
On the other side famed Hektor the Trojan force ar-
rayed.— 385
Then azure-haired Posidon and Hektor famed displayed,
In sooth, the direst struggle of the extended war;
And one aid to the Trojans, one to the Argives bare.
The sea against the vessels and Argive tents dashed high;
The warriors came together with mighty battle cry. 390
Not so the wave of ocean against the firm land roars,
By Boreas’ wild breath driven from ocean to the shores;
Not such a crackling rises from the fire in burning flood,
Amid the mountain passes, when it sweeps to burn the

wood;
Not so the winds re-echo ’mid the oaks of foliage
high, 395

When most they rage in anger and howling loud, sweep by;
As from Achaians and Trojans the cry of battle gushed,
As dreadfully they shouted when they together rushed.
But first illustrious Hektor at Ajax flung with spear
(When he was turned toward him), and did not miss him

here, 400
But struck him where two baldricks upon his breast were
crossed;

One held his shield—the other, his falchion silver-bossed;

The two his soft flesh guarded. But wroth was Hektor
grand

Because the rapid javelin in vain had left his hand.

He went back to his comrades, avoiding thus his fate. 405

But cast at him retiring Telamonian Ajax great

With rock, for there were many, the props of swift ships
there,

Which rolled beneath those fighting; one such he raised
in air

And, near the neck, his bosom struck o’er the buckler
stout,

Whirling like top in casting; and it whirled all about. 410

As from its roots an oak-tree, by stroke of Zeus, the Sire,

Falls prone, and from it sulphur gives forth an odour dire;

And who is near and sees it feels strength and courage loose
BOOK XIV 305

For in its sweep is dreadful the thunder of great Zeus;
Thus fell the strength of Hektor quickly to earth in

dust. 415
His hand dismissed the javelin, his shield o’er him was
thrust,

And helmet; and about him his arms distinct with brass

Sounded; and loudly shouting, rushed. on th’ Achaian
mass,

Hoping to drag him backward; but none of them could
wound

The pastor of the people before the best came round :— 420

Polydamas, Hneas, with them, Agenor divine,

Sarpedon, Lykian leader, and blameless Glaukos e’en.

And no one else neglected, but their well-orbed shields

before

Him held; and his companions raised in their hands and
bore

Away from toil and battle and reached his coursers
good, 425

Who there behind the battle and all the warring stood,

Having their chariot driver and variegated car;

They bore him, deeply groaning, to the city from the war.

But when they reached the ford which across the river

run,

Fair-flowing, eddying Xanthos, Zeus’s immortal son, 430

They took him from the chariot and laid him on the plain,

And poured upon him water; and he found breath again,

And raised his eyes, though kneeling, and vomited -black
blood;

Again he fell back earthward, and sable night endued

Both eyes with mist; his spirit the missile yet sub-
dued. 435

But when the Argives saw that Hektor was borne afar,

They rushed. upon the Trojans fiercer, remembering war,

Then fleet Oilean Ajax was far the foremost here,

And rushed upon great Satnios and wounded with sharp
spear,

Enopides, whom a blameless Naiad to Enops bore, 440

While he his herds was grazing along Satniois’ shore

Him spear-famed Oiliades, approaching very near,
306 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Wounded in flank; face upward he fell, and round him
here
Trojans and Danaans battled amain in powerful fight.
Polydamas, spear-wielder, came as avenger dight, 445
The noble son of Panthos, and struck the shoulder right
Of Prothoenor, son of Areilykos, and thrust
The strong spear through the shoulder; the other fell in
dust
And seized earth with his hand, but Polydamas loud
boasts sped.
“In truth, I think not vainly the javelin onward fled 450
From the skilled and valid hand of Panthoides great-
souled;
Yet some Argive in his body received I think to hold
It as a staff to lean on, going to Hades’ house.”
Thus he; pain touched the Argives to hear him boast-
thus;
But Telamonian Ajax was roused the most of all 455
In his bold mind; for nearest him was the hero’s fall.
Swiftly at him retiring he flung his shining spear.
Polydamas avoided the sable ruin near,
Leaping aside; Archelochos, Antenor’s son, the blow
Took, for the gods had counseled to give destruction
SO. . 460
It struck him at the junction between the neck and head,
At the vertebra placed lowest and both the tendons shred,
The head and mouth and nostrils of him in agonies
Fell to the earth much sooner than fell the legs and knees.
Then to Polydamas blameless great Ajax called again: 465
“ Polydamas, consider and truly tell me then:—
Is not this hero equal to Prothoenor slain?
To me he seems not evil, nor of an evil source,
But brother of Antenor, tamer of savage horse,
Or son; to me his lineage seems nearest to that kind.” 470
Thus he, and well he knew him; but pain seized the
Trojans’ mind.
Then Akamas Boeotian Promachos with javelin slew,
Who wheeled to guard his brother while by the feet he drew.
Much Akamas boasted o’er him and shouted loud and
fell:
BOOK XIV 307

“ Ye archers of the Argives, of threats insatiable, 475

Not to us only labour and grief will come amain;

But you, as battle passes, thus, also, will be slain.

Consider how your Promachos sleeps, mastered by my
blade,

That vengeance for my brother remain not long unpaid.

And thus should every hero wish, while he draws his
breath, 480

To leave at home a brother, avenger of his death.”

Thus he; pain struck the Argives to hear him boasting

thus;

But most he roused the mind of warlike Peneleus;

He rushed upon great Akamas, who did not wait the
shock

Of rushing King Peneleus, who thus Ilioneus struck, 485

The son of flock-rich Phorbas, beloved the most of all

The Trojans by King Hermes, who gave him wealth
withal.

His mother bore to Phorbas Ilioneus alone.—

He struck him ’neath the eyebrow, full in the eyeball’s

zone,

And drove the pupil outward; the spear through eye and
head 490

Rushed clear; he fell, extending both of his hands out-
spread.

But Peneleus from the scabbard his falchion sharp drew
forth,

The neck struck in the middle and flung the head to earth,
Together with the helmet; and still the valid spear
Was in the eye; he held it up, like a poppy’s head, 495
And showed it to the Trojans and thus, in boasting, said:
“ Command for me, O Trojans, the sire and mother lorn
Of illustrious Ilioneus in their abodes to mourn.
For not the wife of Promachos, great Alegenor’s son,
Will meet with joyful visage her dear lord, when are
gone 500
We, sons of the Achaians, upon our ships from Troy.”
Thus spoke he; and the members of all* shook with
annoy;

*All the Trojans.
308 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And each one looked about him to flee high ruin told.
Now tell to me, ye Muses, who Olympian dwellings

hold,
Who first of the Achaians took men’s spoils stained with
gore, 505

When illustrious Earth-Shaker the battle backward bore.
First Telamonian Ajax, then, wounded Hyrtios bold,

Gyrtiades, the leader of the Mysians mighty-souled,

Antilochos slew Phalkes and Mermeros despoiled;

Meriones Hippotion and mighty Morys killed; 510

And Teucer Periphetes as well as Prothoon slew;

Atrides next Hypenor, the people’s pastor true,

In the soft flank narts wounded; the brass the entrails
tore

And drank them; and the spirit, driven by impulse sore,

Rushed through the wound inflicted; and darkness veiled
his eyes. 515

Oileus’ fleet son, Ajax, gave most to death in prize;

For no one was his equal to follow with his feet

The men who fled and trembled when Zeus gave rout com-
plete.

BOOK XV

THE RALLY BY THE SHIPS.

But when the trench and palings were passed by flying
bands,
And many of them were mastered beneath the Danaans’
hands,
The Trojans by the chariots stood in confusion deep,
Pallid with fear, in terror; but Zeus woke from his sleep

Upon the peaks of Ida by Hera golden-throned. 5
He started and stood upright, and Achaians and Trojans
scanned:

The Trojans were in tumult, behind them thundering,
The Argives urged the tumult; with them was Neptune,
King.
BOOK XV 309

He saw great Hektor lying upon the plain beneath;

Around him sat his comrades, while he strained hard for
breath. 10

And he had lost his senses and vomited black blood;

For not the weakest Argive had cast the missile crude.

The Sire of men and godheads felt pity, seeing him,

And, sternly eying Hera, addressed with accents grim:

“In truth, your wile, O Hera, worker of ill and blight,15

Has stopped great Hektor’s battle and turned his folk to
flight.

I know not if you’ll gather the first fruits of the woes

Of your ill machinations and if I scourge with blows.

Yet, do-you not remember when you were hung on high,

And from your feet two anvils I hung to mortify, 20

And round your hands put fetters, unbreakable, of gold ?

And you were hung ’mid ether and ’mid the clouds un-
rolled.

The gods in wide Olympus were touched by ire profound,

Yet could in nowise loosen, though close they stood

around;
Yet whom I seized, from heaven’s threshold I cast him
forth, 25

So he was faintly breathing, when he fell on the earth;

Not thus the heavy anger for Hercules divine

Departed from my spirit, whom o’er the barren brine
You drove (persuading Boreas and storms) with ill de-

sign;
And e’en to Kos well-peopled far from his course you
bore; 30

Him thence I liberated and led him back once more
To courser-feeding Argos, though he had suffered sore.
I bring this to your memory that you may cheats evade,
That you may: know if loving and bed can bear you aid,
In which you mingled, going from the gods and cheating
me.” 35
Thus he; and ox-eyed Hera, revered, feared mightily,
And, after she addressed him, with wingéd words replied:
“ Know this now, Earth and Heaven, extending o’er us
wide,
And the Stygian water, flowing beneath terrestrial clods,—
310 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The greatest oath and direst among the happy gods,— 40
And your own head all-sacred and our own nuptial bed
(An oath which in no season by me were rashly said),
Not by my act earth-shaking Posidon disarrayed
The Trojans and great Hektor, and gave the Argives aid;
Yet his own mind commanded, and by it was he borne, 45
For, seeing by the vessels, he pitied th’ Argives worn.
But I would e’en advise him to go to any spot,
Which your, Zeus dark-cloud-gathering, commandments
may allot.”
Thus spoke she; and the Father of men and gods ex-

pressed
A smile, and her in answer with wingéd words ad-
dressed: 50
“Tf you, then, ox-eyed Hera, revered, think with me

now,
A seat with the immortals, as erstwhile, I allow,
In this thing, too, Posidon, though otherwise inclined,
Should change at once his counsel to suit yours and my
mind.
But if you now sincerely and truly speak in all,
Go now amid the concourse of the gods and hither call
Iris and King Apollo, illustrious with the bow;
That she amid the brass-clad Achaians’ army go
To say to King Posidon that he shall cease from war,
And to his own high mansions at once with speed repair. 60
But let Apollo Phoebus Hektor to battle set,
With strength once more inspire him, so he the pains
forget
Which now afflict his spirit, and turn again in fight
Th’ Achaian army backward, urging in powerless flight,
That, flying, ’mid the vessels of many banks they fall, 65
Of Achilles, son of Peleus; and he* shall urge withal
Patroklos, his companion, whom famed Hektor with the
spear
Shall kill before high Ilion, where many others near
Patroklos slew; among them, Sarpedon great, my son.
Thus, by irate Achilles Hektor shall die o’erthrown. 70
And from that moment ever I’ll accomplish for your sake

* Achilles,
BOOK XV 31

Withdrawal from the vessels, till the Achaians take

The city, lofty Ilion, by Athena’s counsels sage.

Ere this, I’ll never cease from my all-consuming rage,

Nor suffer an immortal to lend the Danaans aid, 75

Before Pelides’ wishes are accomplished as he prayed:

When first to him I promised and nodded with my head,

That day, when goddess Thetis touched my knees while
much she pled

To honour great Achilles, city-destroyer dread.”

Thus he; and white-armed Hera, goddess, did not

deny. 80

She went from Ida’s mountains to great Olympus high.

As when a hero’s spirit in rapid thought is tost,

Thinking in his keen spirit when he much earth has
crossed :—

“T went here, there,” revolving full many a matter lost.

Thus reverenced Hera quickly flew with desire aflame 85

And came to high Olympus. To Zeus’s house she came

Where the immortal godheads were gathered round in
groups;

When they saw her all rose up and greeted with their cups.

But she passed by the others; from Themis with cheeks
fair

She took the cup (for foremost she ran the cup to bear) go

And, when she had bespoken, with wingéd words ad-

dressed:
“ Hera, why have you come here? You seem by fear
oppressed.
Sooth, Kronides has frightened you much, your consort
dread.”

To her then goddess Hera, white-armed, in answer said:

“Ask me not, goddess Themis, about these things; you
know 95

What is his haughty spirit, all cruel when aglow.

Yet you within the mansions of the gods at th’ equal
board

Preside, and with th’ immortals hear me while I record

Such ills as Zeus announces; I think that not in all

The spirit will be gladdened (of men nor gods withal), too

Though some may yet be feasting with a hilarious mind.”
312 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus saying, reverenced Hera sat on the seat assigned }-—
The gods in Zeus’s mansions were grieved: with lips

she smiled
‘Alone; nor was the forehead o’er her dark brows be-
guiled;
She spoke to all, incited by indignation’s fire: 105
“Simple are we who oppose thus Zeus in our foolish
ire!

In sooth, we, going nearer, are eager to ensnare
By. force or by persuasion; for us he has no care,
But sits apart impassive; for he boasts him far the best
Among the: gods immortal in strength and power con-
fest. 110
Wherefore endure the evil he sends to each of you.
I think he gave to Ares a mighty pain to rue:—
For his son, most loved of mortals, in battle is o’er-
thrown,
Askalaphos, whom Ares impetuous calls his own.”
Thus spoke she; but King Ares struck both his power-
ful thighs 115
‘With prone hands and, lamenting, uttered: his agonies:
“ Do not be angered with me, who on Olympus dwell;
I seek th’ Achaians’ vessels t’ avenge my son who fell,
E’en though it be my ruin, smit by Zeus’ thunder, thrust
To lie there with the bodies amid the blood and dust.”’ 120
Thus spoke he, and commanded his servants Fear and
‘Flight,
To yoke his steeds and put on his armour shining bright.
Then had.yet greater, direr anger and rage appeared
From Zeus, had not Athena (for all the gods she feared)
Rushed forward through the entrance and the throne she
sat on left. 125
The buckler from his shoulders and helm from head she
reft,
The brass spear from his hand took, and stood against the
wall,
And, next, impetuous Ares rebuked with words withal:
“Mad and of fatuous spirit, would you your loss decide?
Are your ears so vain for hearing, your sense and shame
destroyed ? , 130
BOOK XV 313

Did you not hear what Hera, the white-armed goddess,
‘said,
And she just now her journey from Zeus Olympian sped ?
Or do.you wish, receiving full many an ill, to flee
Back to Olympus grieving, by dire necessity?
And make a mighty evil for all the rest to grieve? 135
‘For at ae the haught Achaians and Trojanshe will
eave,

And. come to great: Olympus and all his fury vent,
And seize each one in order, guilty and. innocent.
Thus, now again Ibid you th’ ire for your son to rein.
For, already, someone better in force or hands.is slain 140
‘Or will:be slain hereafter; it would a hard thing be
To guard from death the lineage of all humanity.”

Thus saying,:impetuous Ares she seated on his throne.
But Hera called Apollo out of the hall anon

And Iris, who for godheads is messenger confest; 145
And, when she had bespoken , with: wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“ Zeus bade you both to Ida go with the swiftest pace;
But-after you arrive there and gaze on Zeus’s face,
Do what he may exhort you.and by command make plain.”
Thus reverenced Hera speaking, at once retired
again 150
And on her throne was seated; the two in haste flew past,
And came to.rill-rich Ida, mother. of monsters vast.
They found wide-thundering Kronides sitting on Gar-
garos’ ‘height;
Around him like a garland an odorous cloud was dight.
Before Zeus cloud-compelling both of the twain in-
clined 155
And:stood; he saw and felt not dire anger in his mind,
Since speedily the words of.his dear wife they obeyed,
And, Iris first addressing, his wingéd words conveyed:
““Hasten,begone, fleet Iris, and to Posidon, King,
Announce all this I tell you, nor lying tidings bring; 160
Bid him to cease from warring and leave the battle-line,
And go among the godheads or to the sea divine.
But if my words he heed not, yet scorn with: fury blind,
Let him at once consider within his soul and:mind:
314 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Though he is very powerful he cannot stand ’gainst me; 165

Since I say that I am better by far in might than he,

And elder born; yet fears not his spirit mutineer

To boast himself my equal whom e’en the others fear.”
Thus he; and wind-swift Iris left no command undone,

But went from Ida’s mountains to sacred Ilion. 170
As when snow or cold hailstones fly from the clouds of
morn,

Driven onward by the impulse of Boreas ether-born;
Thus speedily fleet Iris, in her desiring, fled,
And, standing close beside him, to famed Earth-Shaker

said;
“Neptune blue-haired, with message for you I hither
rove, 175

And come to bear it hither from aegis-bearing Jove:

He bids you cease from warring and leave the battle-line,

And go among the godheads or to the sea divine.

But if his words you heed not, yet scorn what he commands

He threats to war against you and bids you shun his

hands; 180

Since he says he is far better in might than you are here,

And elder born; and fears not your spirit mutineer,

Which says you are his equal whom e’en the others fear.”
To her, then, grieving greatly, the famed Earth-Shaker

said:
“O gods, though he is powerful, a haughty speech he
sped, 185

If he by force would quell me, of equal rank before.

For we three are from Kronos,—brothers whom Rhea
bore:—

Zeus and myself and Hades, the third of nether throne;

And all was thrice divided, and each received his own.

I won the hoary ocean to make there aye my home _1g0

(The shaken lot decided), Hades won pitchy gloom;

But Zeus won wide-spread heaven, ’mid clouds and ether
nigh;

Yet earth for all was common and eke Olympus high.

Wherefore I will in nowise live after Zeus’s will;

Let him stay in his portion, though powerful, and be
still; 195
BOOK XV 315

Nor let him seek to frighten, like coward, with his hands.
For it were for him better to affront by harsh commands
His sons and eke his daughters who were begot by him,
And who will hear his urging, forced by compulsion grim.”
Then fleet, wind-footed Iris to him made answer
thus: 200
“ Sooth, azure-haired Posidon, shall I bear now to Zeus
This violent, harsh message which you in haste arranged ?
Or will you change it somewhat? For prudent minds
are changed.
You know the Furies follow those of an elder birth.”
But then in turn addressed her Posidon, Shaker of
Earth: 205
“OQ goddess Iris, truly you make this speech with wit;
And ’t is well when a messenger knows well what things are
fit.
Yet this dire grief oppresses, in sooth, my heart and mind,
Since he desires contention with words of anger blind
With those of equal portion, with equal fates assigned. 210
Yet now, though full indignant, I yield to his control.
[ But another thing I tell you and threaten from my soul:—
Ifhe (with me unwilling and Athena Plunderer
And Hera and Hephaistos and Hermes Messenger),
Shall wish to spare high Ilion, and wish not heartily 215
To raze and give the Argives a mighty victory,—
Know this—to all together a quenchless ire ’t will be.” |
Thus saying, the Earth-Shaker th’ Achaian people left
And went beneath the ocean, from th’ Achaian heroes reft.
But then Zeus cloud-collecting Phoebus Apollo bade: 220
“Go forth at once, dear Phoebus, to Hektor brazen-
clad;
For e’en now earth-surrounding Earth-Shaker went be-
neath
The sea divine, avoiding by this my heavy wrath.
For, otherwise, our striving the other gods had known,
Who are the nether godheads and are round Kronos’
throne. 225
Yet this for me as well as for him far better stands:
That he, though erst indignant, has yielded to my hands;
Since all were not accomplished without a flood of sweat.
316 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But take in hand my aegis, with many a tassel set,
And fiercely shake to frighten th’ Achaian heroes there, 230
And let illustrious Hektor, Far-darting, be your care.
Give him great strength and valour till the Achaians fly
Upon their ships and come to the Hellespont near by.
There I myself will think of the work and eke the word,
And how in turn th’ Achaians shall breathe, from toil re-
stored.” 235
Thus he; nor did Apollo his father disobey.
He left th’ Idaean mountains like swift hawk after prey,
Slayer of doves, the swiftest of all the birds renowned.
The son of warlike Priam, Hektor divine, he found
Sitting, no longer lying; his mind was clear once more; 240
He knew his comrades round him; and ceased sweat and
panting sore,
Since he was roused by will of high aegis-bearing Zeus.
And, standing near, far-darting Phoebus addressed him
thus:
“ O Hektor, son of Priam, why do you, from the rest,
Sit thus apart in weakness? Has any pain dis-
tressed ?” 245
To him helm-glancing Hektor faintly in turn replied:
“ Who are you, best of godheads, who ask here by my side ?
Do you not know that Ajax, good at the battle cry,
Struck me upon the bosom with rock which he let fly
By the sterns of th’ Argive vessels, while I his comrades
killed, 250
And stopped my rushing valour, and laid me on the field ?
Truly, I thought to look on the domes of Hades’ sway,
The dead, too, when I breathed out my cherished life today.”
King Hekaergos Phoebus to him in answer said:
“ Be strong now, for Kronion has sent so great an aid 255
To you from rill-rich Ida to stand by you and ward,
The King Apollo Phoebus, who wears the golden sword;
And you before I guarded, you and your city high.
But come now, and encourage the many horsemen nigh
Upon the hollow vessels their rapid steeds to sway; 260
And I will go before you and level all the way
For the horses,—and the heroes of th’ Achaians I will
fright.”
BOOK XV 317

Thus saying, the people’s pastor he with great strength

bedight.

As when a stabled courser, high fed on barley grain,

And wont to bathe in river fair-flowing to the main, 265

When he has brast his halter, runs thundering o’er the
plain

Rejoicing in his glory, and holds his head in air;

And round his mighty shoulders streams bright his splen-
did hair,

And, in the way of horses, his members lightly bear

Him to the mares’ wont pastures; thus swiftly Hektor
stirred 270

His feet and knees, inciting the horsemen when he heard.

And as swift dogs and rustics after a wild goat fly,

Or stag with branching antlers; but a rock which rises
high

Or shadowy wood protects him, and Fate gives not in
prey;

Drawn by their shouts, a lion, well-bearded, in the way 275

Appears and routs all quickly, though their desire is strong;

So, aye before, the Danaans followed in many a throng

And wounded with their falchions or two-edged spears
full fain;

But when they looked on Hektor meeting the ranks of men,

They stood confused; their courage beside their feet fell

down. 280
But then addressed them Thoas, who was Andraimon’s
son,

By far the best Aitolian; and well the spear he knew
As well as standing battle; and of th’ Achaians few
Could conquer him in council when youths in wit contest.
But he, their weal desiring, harangued them and ad-
dressed: 285
“O gods, a mighty wonder I with my eyes debate,
Since Hektor thus has risen again, escaping Fate.
And very much the spirit of all with hope was filled
That by the hands of Ajax Telamonian he was killed.
Again some of the godheads draws back and safe
decrees 290
Great Hektor who has loosened full many Danaans’ knees;
318 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus now I think ’t will happen: for, first, he does not
stand

Without Zeus, widely-thundering, and with such spirit
grand.

But come, and as I tell you, let all of you obey.

Let us command the commons to the ships to make their
way; 295

Ourselves, as many as boast us the best in the array,

Should stand here that, opposing, we ward the earliest
touch,

Raising our spears before us; and he, though wishing
much,

I trow, will fear t’ encounter the Danaans arrayed.”

Thus he; and most intently they listened, and

obeyed. 300

And they around the Ajaces and Idomeneus, the King,

And Merion and Teucer and Meges, equalling

Ares, arrayed for battle and called upon the best

’Gainst Hektor and the Trojans; but back of them the
rest

Of th’ army, more unwarlike, to the Achaian vessels
fled. 305

The Trojans dense thronged forward; the onset Hektor

led,

Taking great strides, and Phoebus Apollo went before

With cloud wrapped round his shoulders, and the rushing
aegis bore,

Dire, shaggy and resplendent, which by the brass-smith’s

might,
Vulcan’s, to Zeus was given to turn men back in
flight; 310

He held this in his hands and before the people went.
But the thronging Argives waited; and a piercing shout

was sent

From either side; and arrows from many a bowstring
sprung;

And many a spear rushed onward from valid hands which
flung;

And some fixed in the bodies of youth of warlike worth, 315

And many in the middle fell and stood there in.the earth
BOOK XV 319

Ere touching the white body, and wished of flesh their
fill.—

While now Apollo Phoebus held yet the aegis still,

So long the shafts struck both sides, so long the people fell.

But when the swift-horsed Danaans, with glances ter-
rible, 320

He viewed and shook it, shouting with mighty voice, to
fright,

Their hearts sank in their bosoms, they forgot impetuous
might.

And as two wild boars trouble a mighty flock of sheep,

Or a great herd of oxen, coming with sudden leap

In the depth of sable night-time, and the keeper is not
there; 325

Thus fled the faint Achaians, for to them Apollo bare

Great fear, but to the Trojans and Hektor glory gave.

Then each hero slew a hero when in rout the battle

drave.

Hektor Arkesilaos and hero Stichios slew;

The last was to Menestheus great-souled a comrade
true; 330

The first one was a leader of Boeotians brazen-clad.—

Next AEneas took from Medon and Jasos th’ arms they
had;

Medon, the brother of Ajax, was illegitimate

Son of divine Oileus; but dwelt, exiled by Fate,

In Phylaké in exile, for he had killed in strife 335

The brother of Eriopis, his stepmother, who was wife

Of Oileus; but Jasos led the Athenians famed,

And he the son of Sphelos Boukolides was named.

Polydamas Mekisteus, Polites Echios slew

In the first ranks; Agenor divine killed Klonios true. 340

Then Paris struck Deiochos behind the shoulder’s base

(Fleeing along the vanguard), and drove through it the
brass.

While these were spoiled of armour, so long th’ Achaian

train

To the dug fosse and palings rushed in their flight amain,

And here and there were flying; need forced to pass the
wall. 345
320 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But Hektor to the Trojans called. with resounding.-call:
To rush upon the vessels and let the red spoils go:

““ And whom far from the ships:in another part I know,

His death there will I compass, nor shall, though they de-
sire,

His brothers and his sisters place dead upon the pyre; 350

Yet dogs shall drag and tear-himi before-our city’s verge.”

Thus saying, he drove his horses with shoulders: smit

by: scourge, ;

Calling the Trojan orders. And all with boundless:cry

Called, echoing his calling, and ruled the coursers-high'

Who drew their cars; beforethem Phoebus Apollo cast: 355:

The banks of the deep fossa into the middle vast;

Urged by his feet; thus making a pathway wide-and long,

Bridge-like; and such a distance a spear may reach when
flung

By warrior making trial of his strength and.power inbréd.

Thus they by troops poured onward; the host Apollo
led, 360:

Holding the priceless aegis; he razed full easily -

Th’ Achaians’ wall as boy does the sand beside the sea,

Who, when -he builds his playthings, in child’s mood, from’
the sands,

Again anon in playing destroys with feet and hands;

Thus you, O archer Phoebus, confused. int withering*

blight 365:
The Argives’ pain and labour and turned themselves to
flight.

Thus they beside the vessels remained, ’mid- them
enthralled,
And called to one another and all the gods they called;
Raising their hands; and loudly each one his vows pre-

ferred,
But most Gerenian Nestor, th’ Achaians’ fence and
guard, 370

Prayed. ‘with his hands extended toward the: starry skies:
“ Zeus Sire, if any ever burned for you fattened-thighs
Of sheep or steers in Argos, possessing wheat-rich sod,
And. prayed return, and, granting, you confirmed it with
a nod;
BOOK XV 325

Remember them, Olympian, and ward their ruin nigh, 375
Nor let thus the Achaians before the Trojans die.”

Thus spoke he praying, and prudent Zeus thundered in
loud tone,

In answer to the prayer of the old man, Neleus’ son.
When the Trojans knew the thunder of aegis-bearing

Zeus,
They rushed upon the Argives and remembered battle
thus. 380

And as a mighty billow of the wide-extending sea

Goes o’er a vessel’s bulwarks when the wind’s might urges
free

(For that awakes the motion of the billows most of all);

Thus the Trojans, with great clamour, went onward o’er

the wall,
And drove their horses inward and by the ship’s sterns
fought 385

With two-edged spears, close fighting; some* from their
coursers hot,

And somef, the sable vessels ascending, from on high,

With long poles, which were lying beside the vessels nigh,

Well-joined, for naval battles, their tip with brass well clad.

Patroklos, while th’ Achaian and Trojan armies had 390

About the wall their battle, the rapid ships without,

Sat yet within the quarters of Eurypylos brave and stout,

And gladdened him with speeches, and on the grievous sore

Was scattering drugs assuaging the sable pains he bore.

But when he knew the Trojans were rushing o’er the
wall, 395

And the Danaans’ flight and clamour were spread abroad
through all,

Then, truly, he groaned loudly and struck on both his
thighs

With prone hands and, lamenting, spoke his anxieties:

“ Eurypylos, no longer may I stay with you here,

Though you are in sore trouble; for a great strife rises
near; 400

But let the servant tend you, and I in haste will fare

To the presence of Achilles to urge him on to war.

*The Trojans. +The Greeks.
322 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who knows if, with a godhead, I may arouse his mood,
Persuading? For the counsel given by a friend is good.”
And, while he thus was speaking, his feet bore him

away. 405

But th’ Achaians waited firmly the Trojans borne to fray.—

Though fewer, they were not able to push from ships and
strand,

Nor were the Trojans able to break the Danaan band

And, ’mid their tents and vessels, mix in confusion
crude.

Yet as the guiding plumb-line directs the naval wood, 410

In the hands of skillful craftsmen who know the art full
well,

By the teaching of Athena; so the equal battle fell;

And each one with another fought by the ships a fight.

But Hektor came ’gainst Ajax of glory sparkling bright.

Both by one ship had labour, but could not in their
ire,— 415

The one drive off the other and burn the ships with fire,

Nor could the other drive back, since a god had brought
him* on.

Then glorious Ajax wounded Kaletor, Klytios’ son

(Who brought fire to the vessels) on the breast with javelin

rand.
He fell with crash resounding, and the torch fell from his
hand. 420

When with his eyes great Hektor saw thus his cousin fall,
Before the sable vessel, prone in the dust withal,
To Trojans and to Lykians he called with mighty call:
“Ye Trojans, Lykians, Dardans who battle hand to
hand,
Let none retire from battle here in this narrow stand, 425
But save the son of Klytios, lest the Achaians despoil
Him of his armour, falling by the vessels in the moil. ”
Thus saying, he aimed at Ajax and his bright javelin
threw,
Yet missed him, but great Lykophron, the son of Mastor
slew,
(A Kytherean with Ajax who was his servant true, 430

*Wektor.
BOOK XV 323

Since he had slain a warrior of the Kythereans clear);—

And in the head he struck him with sharp brass above the
ear,

While standing close by Ajax; he fell supine in dust

From the stern part of the vessel to earth; his limbs were
loosed.

But Ajax shuddered at it and to his brother said: 435

“Dear Teucer, our companion of trust and truth is

dead,

Mastor’s son whom we honoured, when from Kythera
come,

Just as our cherished parents were honoured in our home.

But him great-minded Hektor has killed. Where do you
have

The bow and deadly arrows which once Apollo gave ?” 440

Thus he; and Teucer heard it, and near him took his

stand,

And held bent bow and quiver shaft-holding in his hand;

And he among the Trojans shot many a shaft anon

And struck illustrious Klitos, Pisenor’s glorious son,

Polydamas’ companion, high-born Panthoides, 445

Who held in hand the guide-reins and laboured to appease

His coursers, for he held them when most the ranks were
tost,

Thus gratifying Hektor and all the Trojan host.

But soon ill came upon him which none, though fain, could

check.
For a sorrow-causing arrow struck him behind the
neck; 450

He fell out of his chariot; the horses backward flew,

Rattling the vacant chariot. But King Polydamas knew

Full quickly and the foremost upon the horses run,

And gave them to Astynoos, great Protiaon’s son,

With many words exhorting to keep the steeds in
sight. 455

But he again went forward amid the first in fight.

Teucer another arrow ’gainst brass-armed Hektor shot,

And would have stopped his battle by th’ Achaian vessels
fought,

If, while he battled strongly, his life the shaft had joined.
324 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But this was nowise hidden from Zeus’s prudent mind, 460
Who Hektor fenced and Teucer deprived of glory’s glow,
And broke the nerve well-twisted upon his faultless bow,
While yet he aimed at Hektor; another way was spanned
The brazen-heavy arrow, and the bow fell from his hand.
But Teucer shuddered at it and to his brother said: 465
“Ye gods, some god makes idle the battle plans we
made,
And from my hand has riven the bow which I arrayed,
And brast the nerve new-twisted I tied with many a fold
This morning, that the arrows fast-leaping it might hold.”
To him great Telamonian Ajax in turn replied: — 470
“ O friend, your frequent arrows and bow lay, then, aside,
Since that a god has broken who hates the Danaan band;
But put your shield on shoulder, take your long spear in
hand,
And battle with the Trojans and the others’ courage wake.
Nor, though they overpower us, let them all scathless

take 475
The ships with well-wrought benches, but remember well
the woe.”

Thus he; and in the quarters he laid aside his bow;
But round about his shoulders his fourfold shield arrayed,
And on his head prepotent he placed a helm well-made.
[Horsehaired, and dire above it nodded the crest’s high

mass.] 480
He took his powerful javelin, pointed with the sharp brass,
And went, and, running quickly, soon stood by Ajax’ side.

When Hektor saw the arrows of Teuecr laid aside,

To Trojans and to Lykians he called with loud command:

“Ye Trojans, Lykians, Dardans who battle hand to

hand, 485
Be men, my friends and comrades, remember rushing might
Beside the hollow vessels; for with my eyes aright
I saw their chieftain’s arrows by Jove’s hand rendered vain
And easily is noted the power of Zeus with men;
To some surpassing glory is his divine award, 490
And some his will depresses and does not wish to guard;
As now the strength of th’ Argives he wastes and gives
us aid.
BOOK XV 325

Yet fight on by the vessels, and who of you are stayed
By wound or smitten, let him by death and fate be banned,
Let him die; death does not shame him guarding his
fatherland. 495
But safe shall be his consort and children orphaned so,
And house and scathless portion, if the Achaians go
Upon their hollow vessels to their fathers’ cherished
earth.”
Thus saying, the strength and courage of each one he
called forth.
On the other hand great Ajax to his companions cried: 500
“ Shame, Argives, ’t is the crisis either to be destroyed,
Or safety find and evil from the ships to ward amain.
For, if helm-glancing Hektor the rapid vessels gain,
Do you hope to reach by walking your native land withal ?
Do you not hear great Hektor upon his people call 505
As he seeks to burn the vessels and orders them to go
Not to the dance but battle? For us there is, I know,
No better thought nor counsel than our strength and
hands to give
In combat close. ’T is better to die at once, or live,
Than waste by constant wearing in dire hostility, 510
Thus vainly by the vessels by weaker men than we.”
Thus saying, he roused the courage and strength of
everyone.—
Then Hektor slew great Schedios, famed Perimedes’ son,
Phokean chief; but Ajax Daodamas struck dead,
Antenor’s famous offspring who the foot soldiers led. 515
Polydamas gave Otos Kyllenean death in brief,
The comrade of Phylides,* great-souled Epeian chief.
But Meges rushed upon him; seeing this, Polydamas
Turned from his foe obliquely who missed him in the pass.
For Apollo did not suffer the son of Panthos here 520
To be slain amid the foremost; but Meges with his spear
Wounded the middle bosom of Kroismos in the fray,
Who fell with crash; the victor his armour bore away.
Against him then rushed Dolops who well with sharp spear
fought,
Lampetides (whom Lampos, the best of men, begot, 525

*Meges.
326 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Laomedontiades, knowing full well impetuous might),
Who struck Phylides’ buckler in the middle with spear
bright,
Rushing anear; the corselet thick fenced the peril sore,
Which, joined well in its hollows, upon his breast he bore.
This Phyleus brought from Ephyra and Selleis’ river
glen; 530
To him his host-friend gave it, Euphetes, king of men,
That he might wear in warring— ’gainst hostile men a
guard,
And now from his son’s body this mail destruction barred.
But Meges srtuck the highest cone of the helmet sheer,
Brazen and _ horsehair-crested, with his sharp-pointed
spear, 53
And broke the crest of horsehair; and all fell to the earth
In dust (which lately coloured in purple fair shone forth).
While yet he* kept on warring and hoped for victory,
Brave Menelaos reached him (that he an aid might be),
And stood with spear obliquely, unseen, and struck be-

hind 540
The shoulder; through the bosom the spear, with force
inclined,

Rushed onward, going further; and he* fell on his face.

Bothf rushed on from his shoulders to tear the arms of
brass.

But Hektor all his kinsmen urged on with accents loud,

And chid brave Melanippos, the first of all the crowd, 545

The son of Hiketaon, who in Perkoté fair

Erst fed his trailing-footed oxen far from the war.

But when the Danaans’ vessels, on both sides curving
came,

He came to Troy distinguished ’mid those of Trojan name,

And dwelt in Priam’s mansions, honoured like his sons
bred. 550

Him Hektor chided loudly and spoke the word and said:

“Shall we act thus remissly, Melanippos? Is not your

heart

Touched by a heavy sorrow for your dead kinsman’s part ?

Do not you see how fiercely for Dolops’ arms they war ?—

*Dolops. | +Menelaos and Meges.
BOOK XV 327

Yet follow, for it seems not with the Argives thus afar 555
To battle, ere we slay them or ere themselves shall tear
High Ilion from its summit and kill the dwellers there.”

Thus saying, he led them forward; with him the hero

run.—
But the Argives were exhorted by Ajax Telamon.
““O friends, be men heroic, your minds with shame be
dight, 560
Have shame for one another amid the powerful fight.
More shame-respecting warriors are saved than those who
fall;
No fame is for the flying, nor any aid withal.”
Thus he; and they were eager of their own will to
guard,
And took to mind his counsel and from the vessels
barred : 565
With brazen hedge, though “gainst them the foe was urged
by Zeus.
But warlike Menelaos urged on Antilochos:

“ Antilochos, no Achaian is younger than you are,
None with his feet is fleeter and none so strong in war;
See if some Trojan warrior you may attack and

wound.” 57°

So saying, himself departed, but had roused the chief

renowned,
Who leapt before the foremost and aimed with shining
spear,
Observing well about him; the Trojans, struck by fear,
Receded from him aiming; not vain his spear was thrown,
Yet struck high Melanippos, great Hiketaon’s son 5575
(Going to war) i’ the bosom, close where the nipple lies.
He fell with crash resounding, and darkness veiled his
eyes.
renee rushed on him as dog on wounded fawn
Rushes amain, whom hunter, while it is rushing on,
Out of its lair, has wounded and loosed its members
fair; 580
Thus rushed on you, Melanippos, Antilochos, strong in war,
Spoiling your arms, Yet ’scaped not the glance of Hektor
divine,
328 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who came at once against him, running through the
battle line.

Antilochos did not wait him, although a chief of skill,

But fled away before him like wild beast doing ill, 585

Who, killing dog or herdsman amid his oxen fair,

Flies forth ere the assembly of men have gathered there;

Thus fled the son of Nestor; but Hektor and the horde

Of Trojans with loud shouting their deadly missiles poured.

But he turned round and_ faced them when he reached his
friends again. 590

But the Trojans, like to lions devouring raw the slain,

Rushed fast upon the vessels and did what Zeus designed,

Who gave them great strength ever and weakened much
the mind

Of th’ Argives and of glory deprived, but urged them* on.

For his mind had willed to offer to Hektor fame anon, 595

Priamides, that tireless, bright-burning fire he cast

Upon the hollow vessels and accomplish all the vast

Unfated prayer of Thetis; thus prudent Zeus still stayed

For the glow from burning vessels before his eyes dis-
played.

For from that time he counseled to make the Trojans
tend 600

Back from the ships, retreating, but the Danaans fame
to lend. —

Against the hollow vessels, thus counselling, he inspired

Hektor, the son of Priam, though much the chief desired.

He raged as Ares raged, who brandishes the spear,

Or as the fire destroying among the mountains sheer, 605

*Mid the forest’s deep recesses; and round his mouth
was foam,

And both his eyes flashed lightning beneath the dire brows’
dome.

The helmet round his temples shook direly while he fought

[Of Hektor’s; for from ether himself a guardian brought

Great Zeus, who ’mid full many a warrior him alone 610

Gave honour high and glory which all too briefly shone;

For even now Athena urged on the fatal day,

In which Pelides’ vigour should send to Hades’ sway.]

*The Trojans.
BOOK XV 329

But Hektor wished to break through the ranks of men and

test
Where were the most assembled and where the arms were
best; 615

Yet could not thus break through them though his desire
was great;

For tower-like they held together just as a rock elate

And huge in its proportions, anear the ocean gray,

Which waits the fierce incursions of shrill winds on their
way,

And the mighty swelling billows which strike it angrily;620

Thus the Danaans for the Trojans waited and did not
flee.

But he rushed on the concourse, gleaming with fire o’er all,

And fell on them as billows on a swift ship may fall

Impetuous from the cloud-wreathes, wind-nurtured;
and it* all

By flying foam is covered; and the dire breath of wind, 625

Caught in the sail, roars loudly; the sailors fear in mind

And tremble; for but little from black death are they
borne;

Thus in th’ Achaians’ bosoms their minds were tost and
torn.

He was like baleful lion who many an ox has found,

Who graze in herds of myriads in great swamps’ watery

round, 630

And ’mid them is the herdsman who knows not very well

(For the curve-horned oxen’s slaughter) how to fight the
monster fell;

But ’mid the first or hindmost ever does he appear;

Yet the lion in the middle rushes and eats a steer;

The rest run off in terror; thus then th’ Achaians fled 635

Divinely driven by Hektor and Zeus, the F ather dread.

Mykenaean Periphetes alone was by him slain,

The cherished son of Kopreus who came with message

vain
From Eurystheus, the monarch, to the Herculean might;
From father far more evil a better son saw light, 640

Having all kinds of virtues, with feet and eke to fight.
*The ship.
330 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He ’mid Mukenai’s foremost had understanding brave,

And now the highest glory to famous Hektor gave.

For, as he turned him backward, he struck the buckler’s
rim

He bore, which to his feet came, a hedge ’gainst darts for
him; 645

And he by this was injured and fell supine, and all

His helmet rattled direly round his temples at the fall.

But Hektor knew it quickly and run and stood anear,

And fixed spear in his bosom, and nigh his comrades dear

Destroyed; nor were they able to help their friend re-

vered, 650
Though grieved; for very sorely Hektor divine they
feared.
They came among the vessels whose extremest ones
enclose
Those which were first drawn landward, but followed by
the foes.

But th’ Argives the first vessels left by necessity,
Yet there beside their quarters remained, assembling

free, 655
Nor scattered through the quarters, for shame and fear
restrained;

And they exhorted ever one another and sustained.

But most Gerenian Nestor, th’ Achaians’ guardian,

Adjured them by their parents and prayed to every man:
“O friends, be manly heroes, and put shame in the

mind 660

Of other men beside you; let each one memory find

For children and for consorts, for wealth and parents dear;

Whether they’ve died already or yet are living here;

By them who are not present, I call on you to hear

And stand in battle strongly, nor turn yourselves to

flight.” 665
Thus saying, he enkindled each hero’s mind and
might.—

The dark cloud sent divinely Pallas Athena drove

From off their eyes; and strongly from both sides bright
light strove,

Tllumining the vessels and war, to both sides rude,
BOOK XV 331

They saw war-strenuous Hektor and his companions
good, 670
And those who stood behind them, apart, and did not war,
And those by the swift vessels who fought in battle’s jar.
Nor was great-hearted Ajax pleased longer in his mind
To stand where the other Achaians stood, from the fight
declined;
But walked the decks of vessels, going with paces great;675
A great pole for sea-battles he held in hands elate,
With iron studs well-jointed, twenty-two cubits long.
And as a man who knows well to ride steeds in a throng,
Who, when from many horses he makes a choice of four,
From the grassy prairie drives them to a great town
before, 680
Along the public highway; and men and women all
Behold him safely leaping, ever without a fall,
From one steed to another while they beneath him fly.
Thus Ajax o’er the decks of the vessels swift and high
Went, taking mighty paces, and his voice to ether
went. 685
And ever, shouting loudly, to the Danaans he sent
Commands the tents and vessels to guard. Nor Hektor
stayed
Amid the crowd of Trojans in corselets well arrayed;
But as a tawny eagle rushes in circles wide
On flocks of winged birds feeding along a river’s side, 690
Of geese or cranes or swans in a long-necked noisy crowd;
Thus Hektor rushed straight onward to a vessel kyanos-

prowed;
And Zeus impelled him forward with huge hand from
behind,
And eke with him incited the people in their mind.
Again a furious battle beside the vessels rose, 695

And you might think unwearied, unworn they were t’oppose

Each other in their warring, so furiously they fought.—

This thought came to those fighting: That the Achaians
thought

Never of flight from slaughter, but dying on the spot.

But the Trojans’ minds were hoping, in each one’s breast
in turn, 700
332 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To kill th’ Achaian warriors and all the ships to burn.

Thus thinking, ’gainst each other. th’ opposing armies
stood.

But Hektor seized the stern of an ocean vessel good,

Beauteous and swiftly-sailing, which Protesilaos bore

To Troy, but never brought him back to his fathers’

shore. 705
‘Then round this ship th’ Achaians and Trojans hand to
hand

ought, warring one another, nor did from far withstand
The impetus of arrows, the javelins swift declined,
Yet all stood near together and had a single mind,
And fought with trenchant axes and axes made for

war, 710
And two-edged spears and falchions great and full fain
to mar.

And of the beauteous falchions, black-mounted, hilted well,

Some from the hands fell earthward, some from the
shoulders fell

Of men who fought in battle; the black earth flowed with

gore. .
When Hektor seized the vessel’s stern portion, nor for-
bore, 715

But held in hand the top part, he all the Trojans hight:
“ Bring fire and throng together while you urge on the
fight.
Zeus now to us has given the choicest day e’er sent,
To take the ships which came here without the gods’ con-

sent,
Which caused us many troubles from the old men terri-
fied, 720

Who wished me not to battle the vessels’ sterns beside,
And kept me there beside them, and eke the folk confined.
But if Zeus widely-thundering injured us then in mind,
Now he himself impels us and gives us our commands.”
Thus he; more fierce, the Trojans rushed on the Argives
bands.— 725
But Ajax stayed no longer, forced by the darts amain,
Yet went back from them slightly (thinking he would be
slain)
BOOK XVI 333

To the seven-footed row-bench; his equal ship’s deck
here

He left and stood observing, but ever kept with spear

The Trojans from the vessels, whoe’er bore tireless
flame; 730

And ever, shouting direly, urged on the Danaan name:

“© friends, ye Danaan heroes, servants of Ares hight,
Be men, O friends, and ever remember rushing might.
Should we think, then, that helpers are standing at our

back,
That we’ve a firmer rampart to ward the foe’s
attack ? 735

We have no city near us with turrets fortified,

Where we may be defended, having a host allied;

Yet here we are by ocean, far from our fatherland,

In the country of the Trojans’ mighty and well-armed

band.
Thus, in our hands is safety, not by relaxing war.” 740
He said, and charged with fury with his sharp spear
afar.

And whoe’er of the Trojans to the hollow vessels bare
Bright-burning fire, incited by the grace of Hektor there,
Him Ajax gave a wound to, receiving with long spear;
And twelve before the vessels he wounded, fighting
near. 745

BOOK XVI.

 

THE EXPLOITS OF PATROKLOS.

Thus they around the vessel well-banked in warring
stroke;
But Patroklos by Achilles, the pastor of the folk,
Stood pouring forth hot tear-drops, like spring of water
black*
Which pours its sable water down from a lofty rock.
Then fleet divine Achilles, seeing him, ruth confessed .5

*Deep.
334 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And, when he had bespoken, with wingéd words ad-

dressed:
“Why do you weep, Patroklos, like little girl forlorn,

Who, running with her mother, asks that she may be
borne

And hangs upon her garment and holds her, though in
haste,

And, weeping, looks upon her till she in arms is placed ? 10.

Like her you shed, Patroklos, the tender tear-drops free.

Do you, then, bring some message for the Myrmidons or
me?

Is it some news from Phthia which you have heard alone r~

They say that still are living Menoitios, Aktor’s son,

And Peleus, son of Aiakos, where the Myrmidons
abide;— 15

Yet greatly would we sorrow if one of them had died.

Or do you grieve for th’ Argives, because they are de-
stroyed

Beside the hollow vessels from lawlessness and pride ?

Speak, nor conceal in spirit; that both of us may know.”

To him said knight Patroklos, groaning in heavy

woe: 20

* Achilles, son of Peleus, of th’ Achaians far the best,

Be not irate, since sorrow th’ Achaians have oppressed.

For all those of their chieftains, who were erstwhile the
best,

Lie in the vessels wounded by blows from near or far.—

Strong Diomed Tydides was struck by shaft in war; 25

Agamemnon and Odysseus, spear-famed, were struck
close by;

Eurypylos was wounded by an arrow in the thigh.

But these, physicians, knowing full many a drug, attend

To cure; yet you, Achilles, are hard and never bend.

Let not such anger seize me as you preserve in scorn! 30

O brave in ill! How will you help any Jater-horn,

Unless you guard the Argives from this destruction dire?

Unpitying! Horseman Peleus by no means was your sire,

Nor was your mother Thetis; but the gray Ocean bore

And lofty rocks and broken, for your soul is hardened
sore, 35
BOOK XVI 335

But if you fear in spirit some oracle preferred,

And if your reverenced mother of such from Zeus has
heard,

Then send me forward quickly and give to me the rest

Of the Myrmidons, that succour I bear the Danaans

pressed.
And give, to arm my shoulders, the armour which you
bear, 40

Thar, thinking you are coming, the Trojans leave the war.

For easily fresh warriors the men in battle spent

May drive back to the city from vessel and from tent.”

Thus spoke he, supplicating, praying in folly great,
Since for himself he asked for an evil death and fate. 45
‘Yo him, while sighing deeply, foot-fleet Achilles said:
“O ape, Zeus-born Patroklos, what was this speech you
ade!
I fear nt any oracle which I erstwhile have heard,
And ni {ight my reverenced mother to me from Zeus pre-
erred.

Yet thjs dire sorrow touches me in the mind and
‘heart:— 50

That “i may wish to ravish from an equal his just part,

And tate away a present because he has control;

For megthis is deep sorrow whence I suffer griefs in soul.

The a of the Achaians chose this maiden for my own,

Whom ‘ith my spear I conquered when I razed the well-
\plled town. 55

King Attides Agamemnon has torn her from my hands,

As eee Nal some vile stranger, wandering in alien

lar.

Leave werjiese deeds accomplished; it were not well
best. J

To bear etejnal anger in spirit, yet I said

I would not/cease my anger before that time afar, 60

When came ipon my vessels the clamour and the war.

But put upen your shoulders my arms renowned and
bright,

And lead the Myrmidonians, war-loving, forth to fight,

Since a dark doud of Trojans have circled powerfully

About the hollow vessels, and on the shore o’ the sea 65
336 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The Argives are surrounded and hold but little land;

And all the Trojan city rush on with bravery grand.

For they see not the front portion of my helmet sparkling
near.—

Sooth, they would flee most quickly and fill the ditches
here

With dead, if King Atrides good words to me had given. 70

But now they urge the battle and fight round the army
driven.

For the spear no longer rages in Diomedes’ hands

To ward death from the Danaans; no more I hear com-
mands

From the foul head of Atrides; yet rises high alone

The oS of man-slaying Hektor, urging the Trojans

75
While ey with cry of battle are lords of all the'elain,
Conquering in fight th’ Achaians. Yet even thu? amain
Fall on the foe, Patroklos, guarding the ships fror! scorn,
Lest they with fire all-sparkling the rapid vesselsburn
And, doing this, deprive us all of beloved return. 80
But hear, that I the chiefest counsel place in your t rind,
That you for me great honour and glory eke shai’ find
Before all of the Danaans, so they the maid all- fait:
Again restore, and other resplendent presents bSar.
When from the ships you drive them, return to ‘ne once
more, 85
And, though the lord high-thundering of Hera glfry bore,
Do not while I am absent desire to mix in war
With the battle-loving Trojans; ’t would ¢&:erace me
more by far. ;
Nor o’er exult in battle and in hostility, ag’
Nor lead the host to Ilion, the Trojans svaughtering
free, 1 go
Lest some eternal godhead from Olympus hith descend;
For Apollo Hekaergos is very much their ficend.
But turn back when the vessels are rescued bw your might,
And let them on the prairie contend in hostilé fight.
For would that, O Zeus Father, Athen’ , Apollo, too, 95
No one of all the Trojans might fly death (any or ‘few),
And, save us two, no Argive escape from death’s annoy,
BOOK XVI 337

That we alone might loosen the sacred crown of Troy.”
Thus these two with each other on such affairs dis-
coursed.—
But Ajax stayed no longer, for he by darts was forced;--100
‘The will of Zeus oppressed him, and the Trojans high and
brave,
Casting at him their missiles; his glittering helmet gave
A dire din round his temples; and ever they conspired
To strike the well-wrought helm-studs; and his left shoul-
der tired
By holding firmly ever his deftly-moving shield; 105
Nor could they with their weapons repel him from the ,
field.
But aye his breath was heavy; and copious sweat and
slime
Flowed down from all his members; and nowise he had time
To breathe; in every manner evil on evil rolled.
Now tell to me, ye Muses, Olympian domes who
hold, IIo
How first the fire was cast on th’ Achaians’ vessels here.
Hektor struck with great falchion Ajax’s ashen spear,
Standing close by, and severed the shaft behind the blade;
And Telamonian Ajax in his hand vainly swayed
The spear thus mutilated; the brazen spear-point

sprang 115

Far from him, falling earthward, and, striking, loudly
rang.

Then Ajax knew (and shuddered) within his blameless
mind

The gods’ works, since the counsels which he for war
designed

Were shorn by Zeus high-thundering, who wished the
victory

For the Trojans; and he went back from the missiles
flying free. 120

Then they on the swift vessels the fire unwearied cast.

Whose quenchless flame all quickly through all around
it passed.

Thus the fire the stern surrounded; but Achilles smote
both thighs
338 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And, speaking to Patroklos, aroused his energies:
“Rise now, Zeus-born Patroklos, ruler o’er horses
dire, 125
I see beside the vessels the glow of hostile fire.
I fear the ships are taken, so fight no more befal.
Put on the armour quickly while I the people call.”
Thus spoke he; and Patroklos put on the glittering
brass.
And first the greaves he fitted round his fair legs apace, 130
Well-joined with silver buckles; but next around his
breast
He placed the varied corselet with many a star impressed,
Of Aiakides fleet-footed, and from his shoulders hung
His brass sword silver-studded and buckler great and

strong.
The well-made horse-haired helmet he placed on his
strong head; 135

And nodded dire above it the crest which all o’erspread.

He took two valid javelins, suited to his hands deft;

The spear alone of blameless Aiakides he left

(Heavy and huge and valid); no other Achaian’s might

Could brandish, yet Achilles alone could shake in
fight: 140

A Pelian ash which Chiron had given to his sire,

From Pelion’s lofty summit, for heroes’ slaughter dire.

He bade Automedon quickly the coursers fleet to yoke,

Whom he honoured next Achilles who the ranks of heroes
broke;

He was in fight most faithful the foeman’s rush to
meet.— 145

For this Automedon guided ’neath yoke the horses fleet,

Balios and with him Xanthos (both with the breezes flew);

And Podargé, the wild harpy, to Wind Zephyr bore the
two

While by the stream of Ocean she in a meadow fed.

But in the outer harness Pedasos faultless sped, 150

Whom, when Eetion’s city he took, Achilles led;

And he*, though only mortal went with the deathless
steeds.

* Pedasos.
‘BOOK XVI 339

But, going to the Myrmidons, Achilles armed their

needs,

In all the tents, with armour; they were like wolves who
eat

Raw flesh, and whose fierce bosoms are filled with strength
replete, 155

Who, killing in the mountains a horned stag great and
good,

Eat him; and all are purple in jaw, stained with the blood;

Then in a pack they scurry, and from black-watered*
spring

Lap up with tongues all-slender the surface darkening

O° the water, and they vomit blood; but the mind with-
in 160

Their bosoms is intrepid, and their stomachs swell the
skin;

So rushed the chiefs and leaders of the Myrmidons like
these

Around the good attendant of fleet Aiakides;

And ’mid the warlike people Mars-like Achilles stood,
Encouraging the horses and men with shields endued. 165
There were fifty rapid vessels which were led to Ilion

By Zeus-beloved Achilles; and brought upon each one
Were fifty men, companions together at the oar;

And five he made their leaders to whom the trust he bore
Of ruling: but the guidance of all the host he had. 170
One troop obeyed Menesthios, in varied corselet clad,
The offspring of Spercheios, a river flowing from Zeus,
Borne by great Peleus’ daughter, Polydora beauteous,
To Spercheios aye unwearied, a woman godhead won;
Yet, as fame said, to Boros, great Perieres’ son, 175
Who wedded her in public and priceless dowry gave.
The next obeyed Eudoros, like Ares strong and brave,
Born of maid} Polymela, who fair in dancing moved,
The daughter fair of Phylas; her powerful Hermes loved,
Seeing among those dancing the choral dance and song,180
In the chorus of Diana, gold-bowed and huntress strong.
To an upper room ascending, Hermes, the peaceful one,
Lay with the maid in secret; she bore to him a son,

*Deep. =f That is, illegitimate.
340 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

IIustrious Eudoros, renowned in race and fight.

But when him Ilithyia, birth-ruling, brought to light, 185

And he saw Helios’ splendour Echekleus’ mighty power,

The son of Aktor’s wed her and gave enormous dower.

But him the ancient Phylas nurtured and taught anon,

And loved him with love tender as if he were a son.—

Warlike Pisander ruled o’er the third of the commands,1go

Maimalides, the greatest ’mid the Myrmidonian bands

With the long spear to battle (after Pelides’ friend).—

The fourth was ruled by Phoinix, the ancient, horseman
kenned.

Alkimedon ruled the fifth one, Laerkeus’ blameless son.—

But when beneath their leaders Achilles placed each
one, 195

Arranging well in order, he gave his strict command:

““Ye Myrmidons, let no one forget the threats you

planned

Beside the rapid vessels against the Trojan band,

What time I was indignant, and each reproaches sped:—

‘ Unyielding son of Peleus, in wrath your mother bred; 200

Hard one, who by the vessels your comrades loath detain;--

Go we on ocean vessels back to our homes again,

Since thus a baneful anger has fallen on your mind!’

You said so oft in gathering, but now to us is joined

The mighty work of battle for which you wished be-
fore.— 205

Now, who is brave in spirit, let him with Trojans war.”

Thus saying, their strength and spirit he raised by

counseling;

And they their ranks made denser when they had heard the
king.

As when with stones well-jointed a man may make a wall

OF a lofty house to keep out the force o’ the wind
withal; 210

Thus closely joined were helmets and bossy bucklers’
span,

And buckler pressed to buckler, helm to helm and man to
man;

And the horsehaired helms touched nodding with cones
all glittering fair,
BOOK XVI 341

So thick they stood together to one another there.

Before them all, two heroes resplendent arms con-
fined, 215

Patroklos and Automedon, who both had but one mind:—

To battle ’mid the foremost of the Myrmidonian best.—

But Achilles sought his quarters and opened wide a chest,

Dedal and fair which Thetis, the silver-footed, gave

To bear upon his vessel, and filled with garments
brave, 220

With cloaks which wind resisted and shaggy tapestries.

There was a cup well-fashioned placed in the chest with
these;

No other man drank from it the brightly sparkling wine;

And from it he libated Zeus only, Sire divine.

Taking this from the coffer,he cleaned with sulphur first, 225

Then in a stream of water, clear-flowing, he abstersed.

Next his own hands he washed off and drew off sparkling
wine,

And, in the mid space standing, libated wine divine,

Looking to heaven, and noticed by Zeus who thunders far.

“ Pelasgian, Dodonean, King Zeus, who dwell afar, 230

Ruling Dodona wintry, round which the Selli are,

Your priests whose feet are washed not, who sleep with
earth for bed.

Sooth, formerly you listened to me whene’er I prayed,

And gave to me high honour and harmed th’ Achaians
much;

Thus, once again accomplish for me another such, 235

For I myself remain here where all the ships are run,

But send forth my companion with many a Myrmidon

To fight; yet, Zeus wide-thundering, glory on him bestow.

His heart within his bosom confirm that Hektor know,

If my attendant singly knows skillfully to war, 240

Or if his hands rage matchless when I share Ares’ jar.

But when the din and battle he from the ships may turn,

To me by the swift vessels let him unscathed return,

With all his arms and comrades who fight in close fight

im.
Thus spoke he supplicating, and prudent Zeus heard

him. 245
342 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The Father gave one favour, the other he denied;

To drive the din and battle from the ships, he ratified;

That he should come back safely from the battle, he
denied.

Yet Achilles made libation and Zeus, the Father, prayed,

And went back to his quarters, and the cup in coffer
laid; 250

But stood before his quarters, for still, his mind within,

He wished to see th’ Achaians’ and Trojans’ dire war-din.

But those armed with great-hearted Patroklos marched

along

Till, with presumptuous spirit, they charged the Trojan
throng

At once, like wasps by wayside, who have dwellings by
the road, 255

Whom foolish boys vex ever with never ceasing goad;

And who to many a passer accomplish common ill;

So if a passing traveler give them the slightest thrill,

Though with no bad intention, they with a heart high-

strung,
Fly forward, all, against him and seek to guard their
young; 260

Like these, the Myrmidonians, with heart and spirit high,
Poured forward from the vessels; and rose a quenchless
cry.
But ee ee to his comrades shouted in mighty tone:
“OQ Myrmidons, companions of Achilles, Peleus’ son,
My friends, be men and heroes, remember rushing
might; 265
That we, who are his servants and in close combat fight,
Make for Achilles honour who is by far the best
Of th’ Argives by the vessels, and let Atrides’ breast,
Wide-ruling Agamemnon’s, know his folly manifest
When he the best Achaian honour in naught assigned. ”270
Thus saying, he incited each hero’s strength and mind.
And they attacked the Trojans and charged in dense
array.
And round the ships rung direly th’ Achaians’ shouts afray.
But when the Trojans looked on Menoitios’ powerful
son,
BOOK XVI 343

Himself and his attendant, who both in armour shone, 2:75

Their minds were in confusion, and their phalanxes in-
clined,

Thinking that fleet Pelides had banished from his mind

The rage which he had nourished, and fostered amity;

And each one looked about him to ’scape destruction high.

But first Patroklos, aiming, flung with his shining

spear 280

Straight on toward the middle where the most made
tumult drear,

Beside the stern 0’ the vessel of Protesilaos dead,

And wounded great Pyraichmes who Paionian horsemen led

From Amydon, from the Axios, wide-flowing stream
divine,

And struck his dexter shoulder; he fell in dust supine, 285

Groaning, and his companions around him turned to
flight:

The Paionians, for Patroklos inspired them all with
fright

When he had slain their leader, who was the best to fight.

He drove them from the vessels and quenched the spark-

ling fire.
The half-burned vessel stood there; in tumult vast and
dire 2g0

The Trojans fled confusedly; the Danaans were poured

Forth from the hollow vessels, and ceaseless tumult
roared.

As when, from the high summit of mountain mighty-
browed,

Great Zeus, who gathers lightning, divides a dense dark
cloud,

And all the promontories and crags in light are given, 295

And forests, and the ether to heaven broad is riven;

Thus the Danaans breathed a little, when they the hostile
fire

Had pushed back from the vessels; yet ceased not warring
dire.

For nowise were the Trojans in flight confusedly moved

Back from the sable vessels by th’ Achaians Ares-
loved, 300
344 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet still they fought and went not from the vessels till
coerced.
Then warrior slaughtered warrior (when the flight be-
came dispersed)
Of the leaders; and, the first one, Menoitios’ powerful son,
Struck the thigh of Areilykos (when he turned round) anon
With his sharp spear, and through it he drove the brass

point forth. 305
The spear the frail bone shattered, and he fell prone to
earth.

But warlike Menelaos struck Thoas in the breast

Laid bare beside the buckler, and his fair limbs oppressed.

Phylides, then, saw Amphiklos as he rushed on to war,

And struck his legs extremest where men’s calves thickest
are, 310

Striking before the Trojan; and all the nervous plies

Around the spear’s point severed; amd darkness veiled
his eyes.

Antilochos Nestorides Atymnios with sharp spear

Wounded, and the brass javelin sped through the flank
parts sheer;

He fell down there before him; but Maris with his

spear, 315
For close fight, charged Antilochos, for his slain brother
irate,

Standing before the body; but Thrasymedes great
Struck him before Antilochos (nor did his javelin stray)
At once upon the shoulder; the spear’s point cut away
The muscles from the forearm and crushed the bone’s

last ties. 320
He fell with crash resounding, and darkness veiled his
eyes.

Thus these two, by two brothers subdued, sought Erebus,
Brave comrades of Sarpedon, sons of Amisodaros

And skilled in wielding javelins, and who th’ invincible
Monster Chimaira nourished, formany menanill. 325
Oilean Ajax, rushing on Kleobulos, took

Alive, pressed in the concourse; yet, after this, he struck
His neck with sword great-hilted and loosed his vigour

great.
BOOK XVI 345

And all the sword was tepid with blood; and powerful fate
And purple death together seized on his eyes impaired. 330
Then Peneleus and Lykon rushed together, forthey’d erred
With spears thrown at each other, and both had flung in

vain;

Thus both rushed on with falchions; and Lykon struck
amain

The horsehaired helmet’s summit; at hilt the sword broke
sheer.

But Peneleus next struck him on the neck beneath the
ear, 335

And all the falchion entered; the skin alone just held;
The head hung down beside him, and his strong limbs
were quelled.

Meriones reached Akamas with rapid feet in flight,
And struck, while he ascended his car, the shoulder right.
He fell out of his chariot; mist veiled his eyes apace. 340
Idomeneus struck Erymas in mouth with cruel brass;
The brazen spear went through it a space below the brain,
And all the white bones shattered; the teeth flew out

amain;
Both eyes with blood were flowing which, gaping, he
exhaled,
Bubbling from mouth and nostrils; death’s sable storm-
cloud veiled. 345
Thus these leaders of the Danaans slew, each of them,
a foe.

And as the wolves destructive impetuously go

On lambs or kids and take them from flocks which in the
hills

Are scattered by the folly of the shepherd, to his ills,

And, seeing, at once they tear these, with minds unwar-
like dight; 350

Thus the Danaans fought the Trojans; but they ill-
sounding flight

Alone had in remembrance, and forgot impetuous might.

But mighty Ajax ever at Hektor brazen-dressed
Desired to fling a javelin; but he, knowing war infest,
Concealed his spreading shoulders beneath his bull’s-hide

shield, 355
346 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And watched the hiss of arrows and whizz of darts afield.
In truth, he knew the victory inclined against him here,
Yet, even thus, he waited and saved his comrades dear.
As when from great Olympus a cloud comes into heaven
Out of the cloudless ether, when Zeus a storm has

driven; 360
Thus rose their flight and clamour who fled from ships
and shore;

They went not back in order. His foot-swift horses bore

Hektor off with his armour; he left the Trojan host,

Who were detained unwilling by the deep trench they’d
crossed.

Many fleet steeds car-drawing left in the fosse the cars 365

Of those who ruled them, broken where the pole joins on
the bars.

Patroklos followed, urging the Danaans fervidly,

Ill for the Trojans planning; but they with flight and cry,

Filled all the ways when scattered; a storm of dust on

high,
Beneath the clouds, extended; the whole-hoofed horses
went 370

Backward toward the city from vessel and from tent.

And where Patroklos chiefly saw the host confusedly
swell,

There drove he, calling loudly; men neath his axles fell

Prone from their cars; and chariots were overturned with

loss.
But the swift-flying coursers leapt on straight o’er the
fosse, 375

{Immortal, whom to Peleus the gods—a high gift—gave,]

Desiring to go onward; his eager spirit drave

Him on to strike down Hektor, whose swift steeds bore
away.

As when beneath a whirlwind upon some autumn day

All the black earth is burdened, when Zeus pours water
fast, 380

Raging in savage anger, enraged by men at last,

Who, judging in the forum, decide by force and frauds

And banish right and care not for the vengeance of the
gods;
BOOK XVI 347

And all their rivers flowing are swollen as they flow,
And many a slope the torrents bear with them as they

_ 8 385
Flowing headlong from the mountains down to the purple
main
With mighty crash and clangour; and the works of men
are vain;
Thus the Trojan mares groaned greatly as fast they ran
along.
But when, in truth, Patroklos cut off the foremost
throng,
He turned them to the vessels, nor suffered them, though
keen, 390

To flee back to the city, yet in the space between

The vessels and the river and the lofty wall afield

He slew them, following swiftly, avenging many killed.

Then Pronoos, first, he wounded with his resplendent spear

On the breast bared by the buckler, and loosed his mem-
bers sheer; 395

He fell with crash resounding. Patroklos next rushed on

The son of Enops, Thestor (who sat with members drawn

Together in his chariot well-polished, and in mind

Was stricken; and the guide-reins from his helpless
hands declined),

And, standing close beside him, he struck with spear of
death 400

Upon the dexter jaw-bone, and drove it through his teeth,

Then seized the spear and drew him over the chariot’s
rim.—

As when a man is sitting on a beetling crag’s last brim,

And draws out of the ocean with line and brass all-sheer

A sacred fish; so he drew him from the car with shining

spear, 405
Then on his mouth he flung him; him, falling, life for-
sook.

Next Eurylaos (rushing on him) he struck with rock

At the middle of the head, and it all was cleft in twain

Within the valid helmet; and prone on earth amain

He fell, and round about him was poured death ruin-
ous. 410
348 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Then Eurymas, Epaltes and great Amphoteros,
Damastorides Tlepolemos, Pyris and Echios

And Ipheus and Euippos, Polymelos Argeades:

To the earth which many nurtures he sent in heaps all

these.
When Sarpedon saw his comrades, with corselets with-
out bands, 415

Thus mastered by Patroklos Menoitiades’s hands,
He called aloud, exhorting the godlike Lykian band:
“Where do you fly, O Lykians? Shame! Make a
strenuous stand!
For I will meet this hero, that I may know full well
Which of us two will conquer; for he wrought full many

an ill 420
To the Trojans; since he loosened the knees of many of
worth.”

Thus he, and from his chariot in arms leapt to the earth.
On the other hand Patroklos, seeing, leapt from his car.
And they, as bent-clawed vultures, with curving beaks,

make war
With a resounding clamour on a rock which rises high, 425
Rushed straight upon each other, uttering a furious cry.—
The son of wily Kronos pitied them, seeing in strife,
And said, addressing Hera, his sister and his wife:

“Ome! Since it is fated the most beloved of men,
Sarpedon, by Patroklos Menoitiades should be slain.— 430
My heart is borne ambiguous, my mind is tost amain:
Whether I bear him living away from teazful war,

And place him ’mid the people rich of Lykia afar,
Or see him by the hands of Menoitiades oppressed.”

Him ox-eyed reverenced Hera in answer then ad-

dressed: 435
“Most terrible Kronion, what thought did you debate?
Seek you from death ill-echoing, in sooth, to liberate
A man born only mortal, long since condemned by fate?
Do so, but all the others of the gods no praise will find.
Another thing I tell you, and bear it in your mind: 440
If thus you send off, living, Sarpedon to his home,
Consider if some other of the gods (to baffle doom)

Wish not to send his offspring loved from the powerful fight.
BOOK XVI 349

For round Priam’s mighty city in battle fierce unite
Many sons of the immortals whose dire wrath you would

excite. 445
But if he’s cherished by you, and your heart has woe for
him,

Then let him be o’ermastered in battle strong and grim

By the hands of great Patroklos Menoitiades in strife.

But when he lies deprived of his spirit and his life,

Send thither gentle Slumber and Death, for them to
bear 450

Till they attain the people of Lykia broad and fair;

And there his friends and brothers due obsequies may
make

With tomb and shaft; for honour like this the dead par-
take.”

Thus she, nor disobeyed her the Sire of gods and men,

Yet scattered earthward quickly the drops of bloody
rain 4

His cherished son to honour, whom soon Patroklos’ hand

Would slay in fertile Troja, far from his fatherland.—

When, now, they came together against each other

there,

Patroklos Thrasymelos, illustrious afar

(Who was a brave attendant to King Sarpedon’s hand),460

Struck in the lowest stomach and loosed his members
grand.

Yet, sooth, Sarpedon missed him with bright spear flung
with force,

Rushing upon him second; but Pedasos, the horse,

He struck in the right shoulder; it groaned and dying lay

And fell, in dust extended; the spirit fled away. 465

The coursers sprang asunder; the yoke crashed loud, and
trussed

Together hung the guide-reins when the side-horse lay in
dust.

But Automedon spear-famous soon found an end thereby,

Drawing the lengthy falchion beside his valid thigh,

He swiftly rushed and cut off the side-horse, nor de-
layed; 470

The other two stood upright and both the reins obeyed.
350 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

‘Yhe-heroes twain then met in pernicious strife again.
Once more Sarpedon missed him with shining javelin
then;
And over the left shoulder of Patroklos onward fled
The spear’s point, but it pierced not; and next Patroklos
sped 475
The brass; and nowise vainly flew from his hand the dart,
But wounded where the midriff surrounds the solid heart
He* fell as falls an oak-tree or poplar or tall pine,
Which in the lofty mountains men skilled in craft divine
Cut with new-sharpened axes to be some vessel’s wood;480
Thus he before his horses and chariot lay subdued,
Gnashing his teeth in frenzy, grasping the bloody dust.—
As lion kills a bullock, going ’mid the herd robust,
Tawny and mighty minded, ’mid oxen trailing-feet,
In the lion’s jaws he passes with bellowings replete. 485
Thus the chieftain of the Lykians, whom well-wrought
shields defend,
(Slain by Patroklos) angered and called to his dear friend:
“Glaukos beloved, you warrior ’mid men, there’s
direst need
For you to be a fighter and warrior brave indeed,
If you’re a strenuous warrior, be war now your desire. 490
But first the hero chieftains of the Lykians fill with fire
(Going in all directions), so they round Sarpedon fight;
And next yourself beside me war with ‘brass shining
bright.
For to you ever after a shame and scoff I’d be
Through all the days eternal, if th’ Achaians spoil from
nS 495
My armour where in struggle beside the ships I fall.
Yet hold the battle strongly and urge the people all.”
But while he thus was speaking, the end of black death

veiled

His eyes and nostrils. Pressing with heel the bosom
mailed,

Patroklos drew the spear forth; the midriff followed,
too; ole)

And, at one time, the spirit and spear-point forth he drew.
*Sarpedon.
BOOK XVI 351

But there the Myrmidonians his panting horses held,
Who sought to fly, since vacant the car their lords im-

pelled.
Yet direst grief struck Glaukos when he these accents
heard;
His heart was moved within him, for he had no power
to guard. 505

He took his arm and pressed it with hand; the wound
pained sore,

Which Teucer ’gainst him, rushing, with flying arrow bore

From the high wall and kept from his friends a ruin dread.

But, praying to Apollo far-darting, thus he said:

“Hear, King, who ’mid the wealthy people of Lykia

are, 510

Or in Troy (for you are able to hear one anywhere),

List to a man afflicted as I am, touched by care.

For I am sorely wounded, and, round about, my hand

By piercing pains is tortured; nor yet can I withstand

And dry the black blood flowing; my shoulder weights
with blight; 515

I cannot hold spear firmly, and thus I cannot fight,

Going among the foemen. Our bravest chief has gone,

The son of Zeus, Sarpedon; Zeus guards not his own son.

Yet you for me, O Monarch, this heavy wound withal

Cure and assuage my anguish, give powerthat Imay call 520

And urge my Lykian comrades. on to the battle dight,—

That I for the dead body myself may strongly fight.”

Thus spoke he, praying, and Phoebus Apollo heard his

prayer.
At once he stopped the anguish and dried the black blood
there
From the deep wound, and vigour fresh to his mind con-
veyed. 525

And Glaukos recognized it in mind and joy displayed,

Because the great god quickly had heard him when he
prayed.

But first the Lykian leaders he laboured to incite

(Going in all directions) for Sarpedon’s cernse to fight.

He went then to the Trojans, with great str'des through
the line, 530
352 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

To Polydamas Panthoides and to Agenor divine;
He went to scek Aéneas and Hektor brazen-dressed.
And, standing close beside him, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“ Hektor, now altogether you forget the aiding band,
Who for your sake, afar from their friends and father-
land, 535
Lose life amain in battle, you do not aid them fain.
The shielded Lykians’ leader, Sarpedon, now lies slain,
Who Lykia held by justice and by his vigour good;
Him, by Patroklos’ javelin, brass Ares has subdued.
Yet, friends, come and stand by me; in mind be anger
dread, 540
Lest the Myrmidons his armour spoil and disgrace the dead,
In anger for the Danaans, as many of them who died,
Whom by the rapid vessels we with our spears destroyed.”
Thus he; and on the Trojans a weight of grief came
down,
Unbearable, unyielding; since a pillar of their town 545
He was, though but a stranger; for many people there
Went after him to combat, but he was best in war.
And they rushed on with ardour straight ’gainst the
Danaan train,
And Hektor went before them, wroth for Sarpedon slain.
The bold heart of Patroklos th’ Achaian people
fired, 550
And first the two Ajaces, though much they both desired:
“To ward the foe, Ajaces, be ye well-pleased and keen,
Such as ye were with heroes erewhile, or better e’en.
A hero lies, who foremost o’erleapt th’ Achaian wall,
Sarpedon. Might we take him and let affront befal, 555
And th’ armour from his shoulders despoil, and some
o’ the mass
Of his companions guarding subdue with cruel brass
Thus he; and they were eager the foemen to with-
stand.—
When were confirmed the orders which fought on either
hand
(Th’ Achaians and Myrmidonians,—the Trojan, Lykian
band), 560

?
BOOK XVI

V2
Gn
us

All fiercely rushed together to fight around the slain,

With dreadful shouts; and sounded loudly the arms of
men.

Zeus o’er the powerful battle extended deadly night,

To grant his son well-cherished destructive toil of fight.

The ae first th” Achaians, of glancing eyes, pushed
ack. 6

‘For of the Myrmidonians a man (not worst) was Beate

Divine Epigeus, son of great-minded Agakles,

Who ruled erewhile well-peopled Budion’s destinies.

‘But when a‘worthy kinsman he killed, in suppliant’s name

To silver-footed Thetis and Peleus greathe came. 570

They sent him with Achilles, breaker of ranks, to go

To Ilion rich in horses to fight the Trojan foe.

Him, holding the dead body, illustrious Hektor hit

On the head with rocky ‘fragment; and all in twain was
split

Beneath the-valid helmet; and prone upon the dead 575

He fell, and life-destroying death round about him spread.

Then pain seized on Patroklos for his companion dead.

He rushed straight through the foremost, like the swift
hawk in course,

Who puts to flight the jackdaws and starlings by’ his force;

Thus straight upon the Lykians, Patroklos, charger-
borne, ‘580

You rushed upon the Trojans, your heart by anger torn

For -your comrade. Sthenelaos in neck ‘he struck with
rock,

‘Ithaimeneus’ son cherished, and all the tendons broke.

At this illustrious ‘Hektor and the van retired-in haste.

As far is as the distance of a long javelin’s cast, 585
Which a man may fling in striving, either in games of
strife,

Or even in a battle at foes destroying life;

So far went back the Trojans, and th’ Achaians drove
afield,

But Glaukos first, the leader of the Lykians armed with
shield,

Turned back and slew the chieftain, Bathykles mighty-
-souled, 590
354 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The cherished son of Chalkon, who dwelt in mansions old

In Hellas, in wealth and riches ’mid the Myrmidonian
best;

With spear him Glaukos wounded in the middle of the
breast,

Turning upon him quickly when he in chase o’ertook.

He fell with crash resounding; great pain th’ Achaians

struck, 595

When fell the strenuous warrior; great joy the Trojans
met;

They stood in throngs around him, but th’ Achaians did
not forget

The power of rushing valour, but bore straight on their
might.

Then once again Meriones a Trojan slew in fight,

A warrior armed, Laogonos, Onetor’s daring son, 600

The priest of Zeus Idaean, who godlike honour won

From the people; he was stricken beneath the jaw and ear;

And life soon left his members, and seized him darkness
drear.

Aineas at Meriones his brazen spear impelled,

For he hoped that he might strike him, advancing, ’neath
his shield. 605

But, seeing, he avoided the rushing brazen spear,

For he bent his body forward, and the long shaft in the
rear

In riven earth was fastened; the spear’s last portion shook;

But soon the mighty weapon its impetus forsook.

[Thus the javelin of Aineas, vibrating in the earth, 610

Was still, since it had vainly from his strong hand rushed
forth.]

But £neas in his spirit was wroth and to him said:

“ Meriones, ’tis certain, though you in dances tread,
My spear had stilled you ever if it had stricken you.”
To him spear-famed Meriones in turn gave answer

due: 615

“ ZEneas ’twill be arduous for you, though very strong,

All men’s strength to extinguish who may against you
throng

To drive you back; for truly you are of mortal race.
BOOK XVI 355

And, if I hit and strike you in the midst with the sharp

brass,
At once, though you are mighty and for your hands as-
claimed, 620
You will give me fame, your spirit to Hades charger-
famed.”
Thus spoke he; but was blamed by Menoitios’ valiant
son:

“ Meriones, though powerful, why do you thus run on?
O friend, the Trojans never will go back from the dead
Before your words reproaching, till some o’er earth are
spread; 625
For the end of words is counsel, the end of war in might.
Thus there’s no need of speeches, but there is need to
fight.”
Thus saying, he led onward; him followed Meriones.
And as the crash arises from men who cut down trees
Amid the mountain passes; and afar is heard the

sound; 630
Thus rose the clash and clangour from the broad-extend-
ing ground:

From brass and bull’s-hide bucklers and oxen’s well-
wrought hides

Smitten by swords and javelins, with edges on two sides.

Nor had a man discerning divine Sarpedon told,

Since he in blood and weapons and fouling dust was

rolled, 635
From the feet’s soles beneath him to the head which
dignifies.

And ever round the body they gathered as when flies
Buzz loud within the stables and pails of milk beset,
In the season of the springtime when the pails by milk are

wet;
Thus they around the body assembled. But ne’er
Jove 640
Turned from the powerful battle his eyes which gleamed
above,

Yet ever looked upon them and thought within his mind,
And much about the slaughter of Patroklos he designed:
Whether, without delaying, amid the powerful fight,
356 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

There o’er divine Sarpedon him Hektor great should
smite 645
With brass, and from his shoulders his radiant armour tear,
Or if he yet should add to the high toil of many there.
And while he thus considered, it seemed far better donc,
That the strenuous attendant of Achilles, Peleus’ son,
Should drive once more the Trojans and Hektor, in the
strife 650
Brass-armed, upon the city and take full many a life.
So first of all great Hektor with faint mind he oppressed,
Who turned to flight, ascending his car, and urged the rest
From Troy to fly; well knowing the sacred scales* of Zeus.
Then the brave Lykians stayed not, but all seized flight

diffuse, 655
When they beheld their monarch struck to the heart full
grim,

Lying in a pile of bodies; for many others o’er him
Had fallen when Kronion the powerful battle spread.
They} from Sarpedon’s shoulders despoiled his armour

dread,
Brazen and brightly shining, which Menoitios’ powerful
son 660

Gave to his friends to bear to the hollow ships anon.

But then Zeus cloud-compelling these words to Phoebus
bore:

“Come now, O cherished Phoebus, and cleanse the

sable gore,

‘Drawing from the shafts Sarpedon, and next his body bear

Far from the spot you find it and lave in river fair; 665

Anoint then with ambrosia, let ambrosial robes be worn,

And give to Death and Slumber, the twins, that he be
borne

By very swift conductors, that soon he be bestowed

Among the wealthy people who dwell in Lykia broad.

And there his friends and kindred due obsequies may

make 670
With tomb and shaft; for honour like this the dead par-
take.”

*Knowing that they foreshadowed defeat.
tThe Greeks.
BOOK XVI 357

Thus he; nor was Apollo unmindful of his sire.

He left th’ Idaean mountains to reach the warring dire;

At once divine Sarpedon he from the weapons drew,

And bore afar and washed him in a river’s stream as
due, 675

Anointed with ambrosia, had ambrosial garments worn,

And gave to Death and Slumber, the twins, so he was
borne

By very swift conductors and quickly was bestowed

Among the wealthy people who dwelt in Lykia broad,

But Patroklos urged his horses and eke Automedon, 680

And chased the Trojans, Lykians and mighty evil won;

Infatuate! Had he heeded the words Pelides said,

Sooth, from the fate all-evil of black death had he fled.

Yet the thought of Zeus is ever mightier than that of men;

[Who turns to flight the hero and takes from him again 685

With greatest. ease the victory, though himself urged on
to fight;]

Who erst the mind excited within his bosom light,

Who then was first and latest whom you and fate en-

thralled,
Patroklos, when the godheads you to death sable called?
First was Adrastos, truly, Echeklos, Autonoos, 6g0

Epistor, Melanippos and Megas’ son, Perimos;
Then Elasos, Pylartes and Mulios with spear bright
He slew; and of the others each one remembered flight.
Then the sons of the Achaians high-gated Troy had won
By the hands of great Patroklos (for with spear he round:
it run), 695
Had not Apollo Phoebus stood on a well-built tower,
Thinking of his destruction, aiding the Trojans’ power.
Three times upon a buttress of the high ramparts went
Patroklos; thrice Apollo repulsed his bold attent,
Striking the radiant buckler with his immortal hands. 700
But when, like god, the fourth time he rushed upon the
bands,
The god made dreadful menace and wingéd words ad-
dressed;
“ Recede, Zeus-born Patroklos, fate grants not now
your quest:
358 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

‘The great-souled Trojans’ city with spear to raze in war

Nor grants it to Achilles, who is your better far.” 705
Thus spoke he; and Patroklos went back far on his
path,

Avoiding thus far-darting Apollo’s dreadful wrath.
But Hektor at the Skaian gates his whole-hoofed horses
held,
In doubt if he should battle, ’mid the throng again im-
pelled,
Or loudly call to gather the folk within the wall. 710
While thus he thought, Apollo Phoebus stood by withal,
Like to a youthful warrior possessing mighty force,
Asios, who was uncle of Hektor taming horse,
And Hekuba’s own brother, the son of Dymas good,
Who had his home in Phrygia beside the Sangar’s
flood. 715
Resembling him, Apollo, the son of Zeus, addressed:
“Hektor, why cease from battle? It does not seem
you best.
Would that, as I am weaker, I were your better far,
So might you at your damage quickly desert the war.
Yet come, against Patroklos your strong-hoofed horses
drive; 720
Thus you perchance may slay him, and Apollo fame may
give.”
Thus saying, again the godhead went through the toil of
men.—
Illustrious Hektor ordered warlike Kebriones then
To drive to war the horses. But King Apollo went
Amid the crowd and th’ Argives an evil tumult sent, 725
And to Hektor and the Trojans gave glory to the fill.
Hektor the other Danaans passed by and did not kill,
But ever on Patroklos his strong-hoofed steeds drove
forth.
On the other hand Patroklos leapt from his car to earth,
His spear in left hand holding; with the other he seized
a stone, 730
White-shining and all-jagged, which his hand clasped
like a zone.
Bracing himself, he flung it; it did not greatly veer;
BOOK XVI 359

He did not hurl it vainly, but struck the charioteer

Of Hektor, great Kebriones, famed Priam’s spurious son

(Who held the horses’ guide-reins) on the brow with the
sharp stone. 735

The rock crushed both the eyebrows; the bone held not
the thrust;

And both his eyes fell earthward upon the sanguine dust,

Before his feet beneath him; and he (so divers look)

Fell from the seat well-fashioned, and life the bones

forsook.
But him, Patroklos horseman, with insults you ad-
dressed: 740
“Ye gods, this man is agile; how light he dives when
pressed.

If on the fish-rich ocean this man might somewhere be,
He had satisfied full many, seeking for oysters free,
Diving down from his vessel, though ’t were a stormy sea;
So lightly now he dives to the prairie from the car. 745
Truly, among the Trojans full many divers are.”

Thus saying, upon the hero, Kebriones, he pressed,
Having a lion’s impulse, who is wounded in the breast
While he lays waste the stables; his courage lays him low;
Thus, Patroklos, on Kebriones you Jeapt with ardent

glow. 750
On the other side, too, Hektor leapt earthward from his car.
‘These two around Kebriones, like lions, waged a war,
Who on a mountain’s summit fight for a great stag slain,
And both, being pressed by hunger, full fiercely fight

amain;
And thus around Kebriones fought these two lords of
war; 755

Patroklos Menoitiades and Hektor, famed afar,

Desired to cut each other’s flesh with the cruel brass.

Then Hektor seized the head part and did not let it pass;

On the other hand, Patroklos held to the foot with might,

And the other Trojans, Danaans engaged in powerful
fight. 760

And as when Euros, Notos engage in conflict rude,

In the passes of the mountains, and shake the thickset

wood,
360 THE ILIAD OF. HOMER

Beech, ash and rough-barked cornel, whose wide-spread
branches clash;
With echo wide-extending, while the riven tree-trunks

crash;
Thus Trojans and Achaians on. each other in the
fight 765

Rushed, but no one had memory for all-destroying flight.
And round about Kebriones many sharp-spears were fixed;
And wing.d arrows rushing on from the nerves were
mixed;
And many great rock-fragments against the shields were
thrust
By men who fought around him; but in a whirl of dust 770
He lay, great, on space ample, forgetting horses driven.
While yet the sun ascending mounted to middle heaven.
So lonz struck either’s missiles, so long the people fell.
But when the light of Helios passed to the westward well,
Then, spite of fate, th’ Achaians became the best in
war, 775
And drew hero Kebriones from the missiles flung afar,
And from the Trojan tumult, th’ arms from his shoulders
tore.
But Patroklos on the Trojans with evil purpose bore;
Thrice then he rushed upon them, peer of swift Mars

afield,
Shouting with cries terrific, and thrice nine men he
killed. 780

Yet when he rushed the fourth time, like to a god in strife,
There then to you, Patroklos, appeared the end of life.

For Phoebus came against you amid the powerful war.
Dire; but Patroklos saw not amid the tumult there;
For, wrapped in spreading darkness, th’ opposing god-

head strode, 785,
And stood behind and struck him on back and shoulders
broad, —

With prone hand; and in circles his dizzy eyes were sped.
But next Apollo Phoebus struck the helmet from his head;
The oblong helm went rolling beneath the horses’ feet

With sounding din and clangour; and the horsehair over

it 79°
BOOK XVI 364

By blood and dust was sullied. Ere this it was.not just

The helmet, decked with horsehair, thus to pollute with
dust;

For the graceful head and front of the godlike hero brave

It kept, those of Achilles; then Zeus to Hektor gave

Upon his head to bear it; yet his ruin was anear— 795

Eke in his hands was broken all his long-shadowed spear,

Heavy and great and valid, brass-shod; and his great shield

And belt fell from his shoulders earthward upon the field.

Zeus’ offspring, King Apollo, his corselet loosened there.

And stupour ‘seized: his spirit, loosed were his members
fair; 800

He stood amazed; behind him a Dardan hero near

His back between the shoulders wounded with his sharp
spear,

Panthoidles Euphorbos, who his own age excelled

In spear and guiding horses and feet which fast impelled;

For he once twenty horsemen from their high chariots
bare, 805

When first he came with chariot to Jearn the art of war.

He struck you first with weapon, knight Patroklos, nor
subdued;

Then he again run backward and mingled with the crowd,

Drawing out of the body his ashen spear; nor he

Stayed for unarmed Patroklos in dire hostility. 810
Patroklos, thus o’ermastered by the gadhead’s blow, and
spear,

Went back among his comrades to shun the ruin near.
When now great-souled Patroklos was by great Hektor

seen

Receding from the foremost and wounded by: brass keen,

He went near through the orders and wounded with his
spear, 815

In the-groin’s extremest, portion, and: drove the brass
through clear.

He* fell with crash, distressing th’ Achaian people.sore.—

As when in fight a lion presses an untamed boar,

When on a mountain’s summit, beside a small spring’s
brink,

*Patroklos,
362 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Eoth meet in frenzied conflict, for both desire to drink; 820
Yet by force the lion masters the wildly panting boar;
Thus Hektor, son of Priam, with spear the spirit tore
From mighty Menoitiades who had many a chief op-
pressed;
And, as he boasted o’er him, with wingéd words addressed:
“Patroklos, sooth, you thought that our city you could
raze 825
And lead the Trojan women, depriving of free days,
Upon your hollow vessels to your native country dear,
Infatuate! These defending, the swift steeds of Hektor
here
Haste with their feet to warring; myself excel with spear
The battle-loving Trojans, and from themselves I beat 830
The day of their oppression; you vultures here shall eat.
Unhappy one! Though valiant, Achilles does not aid,
Who, when at first you started, full many commands
conveyed:
‘Come not to me returning, Patroklos, charger-borne,
Beside the hollow vessels ere from the breast you’ve
torn 835
The blood-distilling corselet of Hektor homicide;’
Thus might he speak, persuaded your mind to foolish
pride.”
To him Patroklos, horseman, replied all languidly:
“Boast much, e’en now, O Hektor; for you the victory
Zeus gave, with King Apollo; ’t was they who conquered

me 840
With ease, for they my shoulders robbed of the bright
arms set.—

If twenty such as you are I had in battle met,

All by me there had perished, quelled by my spear amain.

Yet me a fate destroying and Leto’s son have slain,

Of mortal men, Euphorbos, and you, the third, are
joined. 845

Another thing I tell you, and bear it in your mind:

Not long will you be living, but near you stand elate,

Death, who holds sway o’er mortals, and Fate—a violent
fate,

At the hands of famed Achilles Aiakides afield.”
BOOK XVII 363

But when he thus had spoken, the end of death con-

cealed. 850
The soul, flying from his members, to Hades’ house went
forth,

Bewailing its sad portion, leaving youth and manly worth.
To him, though dead, then Hektor illustrious made reply:

“ Patroklos, why thus tell me of my destruction high ?
Who knows if e’en Achilles, beauteous-haired Thetis’

son, 855
Struck by my spear, before me shall find that life has
gone?”
Thus saying, his brazen weapon from the wide wound he
drew,
With heel pressed on the body; that from the spear he
threw

Supine. Then with his javelin he sought Automedon,
Th’ attendant, like a godhead, of foot-swift Peleus’
son; 860
For he desired to wound him; but the fleet horses bare,
Immortal, whom to Peleus gods gave—a present fair.

BOOK XVII.

THE EXPLOITS OF MENELAOS.

But Mars-loved Menelaos Atrides knew aright

That Patroklos by the Trojans had been subdued in fight.

He went on through the vanguard, armed in resplendent
brass;

He circled round the body as does dam first-bearing pass

Around her calf while moaning, first knowing such
event; 5

Thus round Patroklos’ body blonde Menelaos went

And held his spear before him and his all-equal shield,

And fain would kill whoever opposed him on the field.

Nor did great Panthos’ offspring, good with the ashen
spear,

Neglect Pareklos blameless, when fallen, but stood near 10
364. THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And Mars-loved Menelaos bespoke with words austere:
“ Atrides Menelaos, Zeus-nurtured, turn away,
O leader of the people, and leave the spoils a prey;
For none ere me of Trojans or famous allies dight
With spear struck great Patroklos amid the powerful
fight; 15
Let me this mighty glory among the Trojans bear,
Lest with my spear I smite you, and frem you the sweet
life tear.”
But, angered at him greatly, blonde Menelaos said:
‘ Zeus Father, ’t isnot seemly o’erweening boasts to spread.
Not such the panther’s vigour, nor that.of lion pressed, 20
Nor of wild boar destroying, within whose bristly breast
The greatest courage rages combined with strength
austere,
As breathe forth the Panthoidae, good with the ashen
spear.
The our of Hypenor, who tamed steeds wild and free,
Enjoyed; not youth, insulting and then withstanding
me; 25
Who said that ’mid the Danaans I was the least in war.
But him, I think, returning his swift feet did not bear
To gladden his dear consort and parents, honoured e’er.
Thus will I loose your vigour, if *gainst myself you stand;—
Yet I advise you quickly to go amid your band, 30
To turn back to your comrades and: war with me to shun
Before you suffer evil; the fool knows what is done.”
Thus he, but did not move him; and he in answer said,
“ Zeus-nurtured Menelaos, now, for my brother dead,
You killed, and for your boastings, shall you. pay ven-
geance due,
And for his wife you widowed in her bridal chamber new,
And for the grief and sorrow upon his parents laid.
In truth, for these poor people an end of pain were made,
If I should bear your head and your arms which brightly
shine
To give the hands of Panthos and Phrontis all-divine. 40
No longer shalt the labour of valour and of flight
Be by us undisputed, nor yet untried in fight.”
Thus saying, he struck the buckler, all-equal in extent;
BOOK XVII 365

But broke not the brass warding; the point itself was bent

Upon the powerful buckler. Next rushed with brass
all-dire 45

Atrides Menelaos, praying to Zeus, the Sire,

And, while he* was retreating, struck on the throat’s last
rand;

And drove the spear with vigour, trusting in his strong
hand;

Clear through the tender neck parts the brazen spear-
point sprang.

He* fell with crash resounding, his armour o’er him

rang. ; 5°
Hishairwith blood was moistened (’t was like the Graces’
hair),

And curls which well were fastened by gold and silver fair.

And as a rustic nurtures in solitary earth

An olive plant wide-branching, where much water bubbles
forth,

Beauteous and germinating; o’er it the breathings lour 55

Of winds from many quarters, and it bears a snowy flower;

But suddenly a tempest with whirlwind great comes forth,

O’erturns it in the furrow and stretches it on earth;

So Atrides Menelaos, slaying, spoiled the armour sheer

Of Panthoides Euphorbos, good with the ashen spear. ‘60

As when a mountain lion, confiding in'his might,

From a herd of grazing heifers seizes the best in sight

And breaks her neck first, taking her in his powerful teeth;

Then laps up all the entrails and blood upon her death,

Tearing, and all around him the dogs and herdsmen there 65

Shout with a mighty clamour from far, but do not dare

To go against him boldly; for much pale fear has snared;

Thus the spirit in the bosom of no one ’mid them dared

To go ’gainst Menelaos, glorious in war’s alarms.

Thus easily Atrides Panthoides’ famed arms 70

Had borne away, if Phoebus Apollo were not near,

Who urged against him Hektor, to rapid Ares peer,

(Resembling hero Mentes who the Kikonians led);

Who, when he had addressed him, his wing<d words con-
veyed:

*Euphorbos.
366 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“ Hektor, in truth, you follow what is from you de-
barred, 75
Warlike Aiakides’ horses, and they are very hard
For mortal man to master or drive before the car
By another than Achilles whom a deathless mother bare.
Meanwhile the son of Atreus, Menelaos manifest,
Protecting dead Patroklos, has slain the Trojan’s best, 80
Panthoides Euphorbos, and stayed his rushing might.”
Thus saying, again the godhead went to the heroes’
fight.
But dreadful sorrow Hektor in his dark spirit held.
He looked then through the orders and immediately be-

held
One* bearing the famed armour, the other} on the
ground 85

Lying; and blood was flowing from the inflicted wound.
He went on through the vanguard; clad in bright brass
he came,

Calling aloud, the image of Vulcan’s quenchless flame;

Nor did the son of Atreus neglect his sounding call,

But said (while sighing deeply) in his great mind withal: go
“ Ah me! Should I the armour resplendent here for-

sake

And Patroklos, who is lying here for my honour’s sake?

I fear some Danaan’s anger who may have me in sight.

But if alone with Hektor and the Trojans, too, I fight

From shame, I fear lest many surround me here alone; 95

And here helm-glancing Hektor leads all the Trojans on.

But wherefore in my spirit do I these things debate ?

Whene’er a man would battle, against the will of fate.

With man divinely honoured, soon will great ruin be.

Thus, no one of the Danaans will anger who may see 100

Me going back ’fore Hektor, aided by gods on high.

But if I could hear Ajax, good at the battle cry,

We two, again returning, would think once more of war,

Though ’t were against a godhead, that we the corpse

might bear
For Achilles, son of Peleus; ’mid ills, the best ’t would
be.” 105

*Menelaos. +Euphorbos,
BOOK XVII 367

While in his mind ana spirit he thought thus earnestly,
The Trojans were advancing; their orders Hektor led.
But he went back before them, and left behind the dead,
Turning his footsteps backward, like lion bearded well,
Whom men and dogs together from stall attacked repel 110
With spears and shouts; the valiant heart in his breast in-

rolled,

Is shaken, and unwilling he turns back from the fold;
Thus yellow Menelaos turned from Patroklos’ corse. -

He turned and stood on coming to his companion’s force
And looked for mighty Ajax, the son of Telamon. 115
Him soon he found where battle most to the leftward run,
Encouraging his comrades and urging on to fight;

For King Apollo Phoebus cast o’er them boundless fright.

He ran in haste toward him and, standing by him, said:
“* Ajax, my friend, come hither and to Patroklos dead 120
Haste we, that to Achilles the naked corpse we bear;

But helmet-glancing Hektor has now his armour fair.”

Thus he, and raised the courage of Ajax, warlike man,
And with yellow Menelaos he hastened through the van.
But Hektor dragged Patroklos, when he the famed arms

shred, 125
That he might from the shoulders cut with sharp brass the
head;
And dragged the corpse to give it to Trojan dogs in
dower.
But Ajax came anear them with buckler like a tower,
And Hektor ’mid the concourse of his comrades backward
bare
And leapt upon his chariot, and gave the armour fair 130
To take toward the city, to be great fame for him.
Ajax o’er Menoitiades raised his buckler broad and grim,
And stood as stands a lion, fierce to defend its young,
Whom, leading forth its offspring the spreading woods
among,
Hunters attack; and fiercely he glares his energies 135
And draws down all his eyebrows till they conceal his eyes;
Thus Ajax round Patroklos, the hero, fiercely moved.
On the other side, Atrides Menelaos, Mars-beloved,
Stood, nursing in his bosom a mighty sorrow then.
368 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

‘But Hippolochos’ son, Glaukos, leader of Lykian
men, 140
Looking on Hektor grimly, opprobrious accents bare:
“ Hektor, in form the fairest, much do you lack in war.
Though you are prompt in flying, an honest fame you

have.
Consider how the city and the state you now may save
With but the people only who are in Ilion born. 145

For no one of the Lykians will round the city tum

To battle with the Danaans, since there no thanks would
be

To fight with hostile warriors ever unceasingly.

How would you save a worse man, amid the throng op-

pressed
Inglorious, since Sarpedon, your comrade and your
guest, 150

You left a prey and booty to the Argives to accrue?

He was a mighty succour to yourself and city, too,

While living; now you dare not him from the dogs defend,
And if now any Lykian to me obedience lend

To go home, the lofty ruin of Troja will appear. 155
For if now that stalwart courage were with the Trojans
‘here,

Intrepid, such as heroes possess, who, for their land

With hostile warriors fighting, bear toil and struggle grand,

The body of Patroklos we might to Ilion bring.

If he now to the mighty city of Priam, the King, 160

Should come dead, and we dragged ‘him from the fierce
toil of war,

The Argives, then, would loosen Sarpedon’s armour fair

At once, and we to Ilion might well his body bear.

For that hero’s* friend is slaughtered who is the best by far

Of th’ Argives by the vessels, and whose men close-fighters
are. 165

Yet ’gainst great-hearted Ajax you do not dare to rise

And, in the heavy battle, to view the foeman’s eyes,

Nor front to front oppose him; since he is braver stead.”

Then, gazing on him grimly, helm-glancing ‘Hektor

said:

* Achilles,
BOOK XVII 369

“Being as you are, O Glaukos, why speak so
haughtily ? 170

Yegods! Intruth, 1 thought you wiser than the others be,

Than all of those who dwell in the fertile Lykian plain;

But now I blame your judgmenfor what you speak in
vain:

Who says I do not wait for great Ajax in the fray.

Ne’er have I shunned the combat nor the fierce charger’s
neigh. 175

Yet mightier is ever aegis-bearing Zeus’s will,

Who oe flight the strong man, and takes the victory
sti

Away with ease, and even when he has urged to fight.

Yet hither come, my comrade, stand here and view

aright
My work; for I will ever be coward as you say, 180
Or someone of the Danaans, though wishing much the
fray,

I'll keep back from defending Patroklos dead withal.”
Thus saying, he exhorted the Trojans with loud call:
“Ye Trojans, Lykians, Dardans, who battle in close

fight,
Be men, my friends and comrades, remember rushing
might, 185

Till I put on the armour fair of Achilles grim,

Which I took from Patroklos by force when I slew him.”
Thus saying, helm-glancing Hektor left there the ardent

war,

And ran to his companions with speed, not very far,

With rapid feet pursuing, who to the city bore 190

The famed armsof Pelides. Hechanged the arms he wore

Far from the tearful battle, but gave his own to bear

To the sacred city Ilion, to the Trojans loving war.

He donned the deathless armour of Achilles, which was

iven
To his all-cherished father by the gods who dwell in
heaven; 195

The ancient gave his offspring who in them knew not eld.
When now Zeus, cloud-compelling, him from afar be-

held
370 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

In divine Pelides’ armour which o’er his shoulders spread,
He shook his head while pondering and in his spirit said:
“Unhappy man, no thought of black death appears
to you, 200
Which yet is near; and lightly you deathless arms endue
Of a transcendent warrior whom eke the others fear.
You killed now his companion of brave and gentle cheer,
You took from head and shoulders his arms unseemingly.
Howe’er, I now will grant you a mighty victory 205
In pay, since from you coming back from the war’s alarms
Andromaché will take not Pelides’ famous arms.”

Thus, with kyanean eyebrows Kronion nodded grim.—
Th’ arms fitted Hektor’s body, and Ares entered him,
Dire, warlike; and his members were filled with ener-

ies 210
Within, and force and vigour; after the famed allies
He ran while shouting loudly, and to them all unrolled,
Blazing in arms, the image of Pelides mighty-souled.
He each of them exhorted with words solicitous,
Mesthles and also Glaukos, Medon, Thersilochos, 215
Disenor, Asteropaios and eke Hippothoos,
And Chromios and Phorcys and augur Ennomos.
And, while he was exhorting, his wingéd words rang out:

“ Hear me, ye myriad nations of allies who dwell about,
For I did not assemble you from your cities here, 220
Because I wished or wanted to bring a concourse near,
But that the Trojans’ consorts and children small, for me,
From th’ Achaians who love warring, you guard all-

willingly.

Thinking thus, I my people exhaust in gifts assigned
And food, that I may gladden each one-of you in mind. 225
Thus now, turn straight to warring, either to be destroyed,
Or that you find salvation; for such does war decide.
But who shall drag Patroklos, even though he be dead,
Tothecharger-taming Trojans and drive back Ajax dread,
One half the spoil I’ll give him; to me one half shall

be; 230
And he shall have such glory as that assigned to me.”

Thus he; and ’gainst the Danaans they went with

strength combined;
BOOK XVII 371

With all their spears raised upward, and much they hoped
in mind
From Telamonian Ajax the corpse to drag in strife.
Foolish! For o’er it many he would deprive of life. 235
Ajax hight Menelaos, good at the battle-cry:
““Menelaos, dear companion, Zeus-bred, no more
have I
Hope that we twain shall turn back from war and battle
here.
And not so for the corpse of Patroklos do I fear
(Which soon the Trojan vultures and dogs will satisfy),240
As I fear my head will suffer, and yours, destruction high;
Since a mighty cloud of battle all things around conceals—
Hektor—and to us, further, destruction high reveals.
Come, call the Danaan princes, if anyone may hear.’’
Thus he; and Menelaos, good at the war-cry drear, 245
Obeyed and shouted loudly to the Danaans who were near:
“O friends, ye Argive leaders and chiefs who public
wine
Drink with King Agamemnon and Menelaos divine,
Who each rules o’er his people; honour and glory true
Proceed from Zeus high-thundering. *T is hard for me
to view 250
Each chief, so great a combat of war burns past control.
Yet let someone come forward with anger in his soul,
That Patroklos should be given to Trojan dogs a prey.”
Thus he; and rapid Ajax, Oilean, heard him say,
And ran the first toward him through the hostilities, 255
And, after him, Idomeneus, with him Meriones,
Idomeneus’ armour-bearer, peer of Mars homicide.
But who could in his spirit the names of the others hide,—
Of th’ Argives who to battle at once together sped ?
The Trojans first thronged forward; their orders
Hektor led. 260
And as when at the outlet of a river flowing from Zeus,
A great wave ’gainst the current roars and the high
shores thus
Sound when the wave is driven out of the ocean’s flood;
With such a din the Trojans went; but th’ Achaians stood
Around dead Menoitiades, having one mind’s accord, 265
372 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Fenced by their brazen bucklers. But great Kronion
poured

Around their glittering hemlets a mass of dusky air;

Since he to Menoitiades erewhile no hatred bare,

While yet he lived a servant of high Aiakides;

And wished him not a prey for the dogs of enemies, 270

The Trojans, and incited his friends to guard beside.

But first the Trojans drove back th’ Achaians glancing-

eyed.

And they left there the body and fled, by fear inspired,

But nonethe haughty Trojans slew with spears, though they
desired,

Yet dragged away the body. But little time were gone 275

Th’ Achaians from the conflict; for they were turned anon

By Ajax, who the Danaans in form and works excelled,

Except Pelides blameless, who o’er the rest was held.

He went straight through the foremost, like wild boar in

his might,
Who lightly in the mountains scatters and turns to
flight 280

The dogs and young men blooming, turning through the
thick wood;

Thus the son of noble Telamon, Ajax high-born and good,

Approaching, lightly scattered the Trojans’ ordered host,

Who stood around Patroklos, and were considering most

Of dragging to their city and gaining fame anon. —.285

Meanwhile Pelasgian Lethos’ high and illustrious son,

Hippothoos, was dragging by foot in powerful fight,

By strap around the ankles and tendons fastened tight,

Pleasing Hektor and the Trojans; but evil soon transpired

To him whom none defended, though much they all
desired. 290

For him the son of Telamon, rushing on through the band,

Struck through the brass-cheeked helmet while fighting
hand to hand;

The horsehaired helm divided before the spear-point
thrust,

Struck by the ponderous weapon and by the hand robust.

From the deep wound the bloody brain by the cone ran
forth; 295
BOOK XVII 373

And there his strength was loosened, and from his hands
to earth

He dropped great-souled Patroklos’ foot, there to lie
outspread,

And he himself fell near him, prone and upon the dead,

Far from rich-soiled Larissa, nor to his parents paid

The value of his nurture; for short his life was made, 300

Since mighty-minded Ajax subdued with spear in fight.

But Hektor flung at Ajax with javelin shining bright.

Yet he beheld it coming and shunned the brass spear
thrown,

Slightly; and that struck Schedios, great Iphitos’s son,

By far the best Phokean, who dwelt in mansions
known 305

In Panopeus all-famous, ruling o’er many men.

*Neath the clavicle’s mid portion it struck, and through
it then

And through the lowest shoulder the brazen spear-point
sprang.

He fell with crash resounding, and his armour o’er him rang.

But Ajax warlike Phorkys, the son of Phainops, thus 310

Struck in the middle belly, guarding Hippothoos,

And broke the corselet’s hollow; and the brass weapon
spanned

The entrails; in dust falling, he seized earth with his hand.

Then all those warring foremost and great Hektor left the

fray;
And the Argives shouted greatly and drew the dead
away, 315

Both Phorkys and Hippothoos; th’ arms from their shoul-
ders shred.

And back again to Ilion the Trojans would have fled
Before the brave Achaians, subdued by cowardice great,
And the Argives had won glory in spite of Zeus’s fate,

By their strength and by their valour, had Phoebus not
urged on 320

neas (in form like Periphas, the herald Epytis’ son,

Who with his ancient father aged while he heralded,

Knowing counsels); him resembling, Zeus’ son, Apollo,
said:
374 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“ How can you now, Aineas, without a god maintain
The city, lofty Ilion? For I saw the other men 325
Confiding in their valour and strength and bravery
And the fulness of their numbers and in their host fear-

free.
Zeus wishes us the victory and would rather give by far
Than to th’ Argives; but you tremble greatly and do not

war.”
Thus he; Avneas knew then far-darting Phoebus
nigh, 330

By seeing him, and Hektor he called with mighty cry:

“ Hektor, and th’ other leaders of Trojans and allies,
If we went now to Ilion ’t would be in shameless guise,
Before the Mars-loved Danaans, o’ermastered by our fear.
Since now one of the godheads, beside me standing

near, 335
Said Zeus, the highest counsellor, aided our battle here.
Thus, go we ’gainst the Danaans, nor let them without
ain
Bear to the ships the body of great Patroklos slain.”

Thus he, and, leaping forward, before the van stood far.

And they were turned and stood there against th’ Acha-
ians’ war. 340

And now Aneas wounded Leiokritos with spear,

The son of great Arisbas, Lykomedes’ brave compeer.

But Mars-loved Lykomedes pitied him falling there

And, going very near him, flung his javelin shining fair

And wounded Apisaon, the pastor of his folk, 345
In the liver ’neath the midriff; his knees loosed at the
stroke;

And he came from Paionia, of fertile fields possessed,

And, next Asteropaios, in fighting was the best.

Mars-loved Asteropaios pitied him falling there,

And straight against the Danaans, to fight them, promptly
bare. 350

Yet could accomplish nothing; for with shields they
fenced all o’er,

Standing around Patroklos, and held their spears before.

For Ajax urged all greatly and many an order sped,

Nor suffered any warrior to go back from the dead,
BOOK XVII 375

Nor suffered any to battle before th’ Achaians’ band, 355
But kept them close about him to battle hand to hand.
Thus mighty Ajax ordered; the earth with purple blood
Was wet; and o’er each other in heaps confused and rude,
Fell the bodies of the Trojans and impetuous allies
And Danaans; for not bloodless were their hostilities. 360
Yet, the less number perished; for they stood ever by
Each other in the tumult to ward destruction high.

Thus, fire-like, they kept fighting; nor might you there

vouchsafe

That the sun was then in safety or that the moon was safe.
For darkness held the battle, where all the best amain 365
Stood and were pressed in combat round Menoitiades slain.
But all the other Trojans and well-greaved Achaian train
Fought under the clear ether; the sun’s rays blazing clear
Above the whole extended; nor did a cloud appear
O’er all the earth and mountains; at intervals they

fought, 379
Warding the foemen’s missiles which heavy sorrow
wrought,

By standing far disparted. Those in the middle bore

Pain from the gloom and warring; and the brass cruel
wore

The best of those among them. ‘Two men in fame pre-
ferred,

Thrasymedes and Antilochos, had yet in nowise heard 375

The death of great Patroklos, but thought him living yet

‘To battle with the Trojans, amid the foremost set.

But these two heroes, viewing their comrades’ death and

flight,
Fought from the rest divided; for so had Nestor hight,
From the all-sable vessels exhorting to the fray. 380

And a dire strife of battle came to them all the day;

Their knees and legs forever, and the feet beneath each
one,

And hands and eyes were fouled by the sweat and labour
done

In fight round the good servant of foot-fleet Peleus’ son.

As when a man his servants the hide of a great bull 385

May give, that they distend it, and which of fat 1s full;
376 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And they receive and, standing apart, around it pull
In circle, and the moisture immediately comes out,
And the fatty matter enters (many pulling round about);
And ’t is thoroughly distended; thus both sides here and
there, 390
In small space, drew the body, for much their spirit bare
Those of Troy to drag to Ilion, but the Achaian band
To take to the hollow vessels; and round him rose moil
grand;
And Mars, inciting armies, and Pallas could not blame
If she had seen the tumult, though angered much she
came. 395
So Zeus above Patroklos an evil toil that day
Laid out for men and horses, Nor did in any way
Divine Achilles know that Patroklos lay there dead.
For far from the swift vessels they fought in combat dread,
Beneath the Trojan ramparts; never in soul he
thought 400
That he* would die, but living return from battle fought,
After he reached the portals; since he did not think at all
He could raze the town without him, nor with himself
withal.
For often from his mother he learned this, heard apart,
Who told him oft the counsels designed in great Jove’s
heart; 405
But ne’er she told such evil as that which now occurred:
That his much loved companion should sink to death
abhorred.—
But ever round the body their sharpened spears they
held,
And aye charged one another and one another killed;
And thus would say some hero of th’ Achaians brazen-
dressed: 410
“ O friends, it were not glorious for us to be thus pressed
Back to the hollow vessels; rather may black earth’s
breast
Yawn for all here together; ’t were better far for us
Than leave Patroklos’ body to horse-taming Trojans
thus,

*Patroklos.
BOOK XVII 377

To drag back to their city and glory great obtain.” = 415
And thus would say some hero of the great-souled Tro-
jan train:
“O friends, if it be fated that all at once should die
Beside this warrior’s body, let none the combat fly.”
Thus said some of the warriors and roused their com-
rades’ mood,
While they were waging battle; and iron clangour
rude 420
Rose to the brazen heaven up through the barren air.
But the horses of Aiakides, when they were far from
war,
Wept when at first they knew that their charioteer and
guide
Had fallen in dust, prostrated by Hektor homicide.
But, of a truth, Automedon, Diores’ powerful son, 425
Full many a blow had dealt them, with swift whip urging
on,
And many kind words had spoken and many a threat
applied;
Yet they wished not to the vessels by Hellespontos wide
To go back, nor in battle with the Achaians to come.
But as a pillar moves not, which stands upon the tomb 4 30
Of a dead man of woman; thus motionless in gloom
They held the beauteous chariot, drooping their heads
to earth;
And hot tears from the eyelids of these (who grieved)
flowed forth,
Their charioteer desiring; fouled were their manes of pride,
And fell down from the collar by the yoke on either
side. 435
And, seeing the two lamenting, Kronion felt their do}e,
And shook his head, reflecting, and said within his seul:
“Unhappy pair! Why give you to Peleus, mortal king
(For you twain are immortal, without age withering),
That you might share the sorrows which hapless men
befal ? 440
For naught is more unhappy than man himself, of all
The living sentient beings which breathe and move on
earth.
378 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet Hektor, son of Priam, shall never be borne forth

By you on dedal chariot; for I will not permit.

Is’t not enough possessing the arms and boasting it? 445
Yet I will cast such vigour in spirit and in knees

That you shall save Automedon from the hostilities

Amid the hollow vessels; I’ll give them* glory yet

To kill, until the vessels, well-banked, their force has met,
Till comes the sacred darkness, and the sun sinks in the

wave.” 450
Thus saying, exceeding vigour to both the steeds he
gave.

And from their manes they cast off the dust to earth afar,

And ’mid th’ Achaians and Trojans bore fast the rapid car.

With them Automedon battled;—though for his friend’s
decease

He grieved, acar he rushed on like vulture after geese; 455

For easily he fled from the Trojans’ tumult loud,

And easily he rushed on and chased the mighty crowd.

Yet did not slay the warriors when he had charged afar,

For he was nowise able, lone in the sacred car,

With spear to rush upon them and guide the steeds im-
pelled. 460

At last one of his comrades him with his eyes beheld,

Alkimedon, the son of Laerkeus, Aimon’s son;

He stood behind the car and bespoke Automedon:

“ Automedon, what godhead has placed within your

breast
These counsels which are useless, and your good sense
oppressed | ? 465

Since singly ’gainst the Trojans amid the foremost crowd

You fight; but your companion is slain, and Hektor.
proud

Joys with Aiakides’ armour upon his shoulders laid.”

To him in turn Automedon, son of Diores, said:

“ Alkimedon, what other of th’ Achaians, like you,
succeeds 470

In holding sure dominion o’er these immortal steeds,

Unless it be Patroklos, counsellor like a god,

While yet he lived ? At present,death and black fate corrode.

*The Trojans.
—_

BOOK XVII 379
S3ut you receive the scourge and the guide-reins shining
bright,
And I will from the chariot descend, that I may fight.” 475
‘Thus he; Alkimedon mounted the chariot swift in war,
And in his hands took quickly the whip and guide-reins
fair.
Automedon ‘descended, famed Hektor saw him here,
And there at once accosted Aineas who was near:
“ 7Bneas, valiant counsellor for the Trojans brazen-

dressed, 480
I have noticed the two coursers which fleet Aiakides
possessed,

Advancing through the battle with charioteers distressed.
Thus may I hope to seize them if you desire in mind;
Since, if we two rushed on them, they would not courage
find
To stand against us boldly and fight in Ares there.” 485
Thus he; nor disobeyed him Anchises’ valiant heir.
Both went straight on; their shoulders with bull’s-hides
covered o’er,
Dried hard and very solid; and much of brass they bore.
And with them rushed on Chromios and Aretos godlike
fair,
Who greatly hoped in spirit to kill the twain and bear 490
The steeds with necks high-arching. Fools! who would
not retire
Bloodless before Automedon who, praying Zeus, the Sire,
Was filled with strength and valour in his black-blood-
girt mind.
Immediately Automedon said to his comrade kind:
“ Hold not the steeds, Alkimedon, far from me in at-
tack, 495
But keep them very close so they breathe upon my back;
For I think Priamides Hektor his strength will not restrain
Before he mounts Achilles’ horses with beauteous mane
And kills us both and th’ orders of th’ Argives turns to
flight,
Or he himself is slaughtered among the first in fight.” 500
Thus saying, he called th’ Ajaces and Menelaos true:
“ Ajaces, Argive leaders, and Menelaos, too,

7
380 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Leave now, to guard the body, those men who are the best.
Let them go round it, guarding, and ward off men infest,
And from us who are living keep off the cruel day; 505
For now with weight rush on us amid the tearful fray
Aineas and great Hektor, who are the Trojans’ best.
But, truly, all these matters lie on the godheads’ knees,
And I will fling my javelin; for all this Jove’s care sees.”
Thus he, and, after shaking, sent his long-shadowed
spear, 510
And struck Aretos’ buckler, all-equal shining sheer;
It did not ward the javelin; through it the brass rushed on,
And in the lowest belly drove on clear through the zone.
As when a young man, having a sharp ax in his hands,
Strikes just behind the horns of a wild bull he with-

stands, 515

And cuts through the whole tendon; the beast falls with
a bound;

Thus he, then, bounding forward, fell supine upon the
ground,

The spear swayed in his entrails and loosed his members
light.—

Hektor flung at Automedon with javelin sh‘ning bright;
Yet he beheld it coming and shunned the brazen spear 520
By bending quickly forward; the long lance in his rear
In the dense earth was fastened, and the spear’s last
portion shook;
But then the powerful weapon at length its force forsook.
Now they amain with falchions had battled hand to hand,
Had not the two Ajaces, all fain, disjoined the band, 525
Who went amid the tumult when their comrades called
them there.
And Hektor and neas and Chromios, godlike fair,
Fearing them very greatly turned backward from the war,
And left Aretos lying, though grieved in spirit sore.—
The peer of rapid Ares, Automedon, then, bore 530
Away as spoil his armour and, boasting loudly, said:
“In sooth, a very little for Menoitiades dead
I cleared my heart of sorrow, and a worse man subdued.”
Thus saying, in the chariot the spoils bestained with
blood
BOOK XVII 381

[fe placed, and mounted by them; he had a bloody
stain 35
On feet and hands, like lion eating a bull just slain.
Then back upon Patroklos the powerful battle surged
(Of many tears and grievous); the strife Athena urged,
Who had come down from heaven; for Zeus wide-thunder-

ing sent
To urge to war the Danaans; for his mind changed in
intent. 540

As Zeus a purple rainbow to mortal men may spread
Forth from the lofty heaven to be a wonder dread

For war or chilly winter which rustic workmen locks
From all their rural labours, and saddens all the flocks;
So she about her body a purple cloudlet spun, 545
Came to th’ Achaians’ army and urged on every one.
But first the son of Atreus inciting, she addressed,

The powerful Menelaos, who very near her pressed;
She took the form of Phoinix and eke his voice unworn:

““ Toyou, O Menelaos, will come reproach and scorn, 550
If the swift dogs shall mangle beneath the Trojan wall
Illustrious Achilles’ companion, true in all.

Yet hold yourself unyielding and urge on all the folk.”

To her then Menelaos, good at the war-cry, spoke:
“My father Phoinix, ancient, you who were born of

old, 555
If Athena gives me vigour the rush of darts to hold,
Much will I wish in battle to stand beside and guard
Patroklos; for in dying with grief my mind he marred.
Yet Hektor aye possesses the baleful strength of flame,
And slays with brass forever; for thus Zeus offers
fame.” 560

Thus he; fierce-eyed Athena, the goddess, joyed withal,
Since of the many godheads he prayed her first of all.

She on his knees and shoulders a vigour great impressed,

And gave to him the courage within a small fly’s breast,

Which oft driven from the body of man, with furious
heat 565

Ever persists in biting and finds the blood most sweet;

She filled with such a courage his mind, which dwells in

night.—
382 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

He went beside Patroklos and flung with javelin bright.
There was among the Trojans Podes, Eetion’s son,
Wealthy and brave; from Hektor he greatest honour
won 570
Of all, since he was comrade and of his feasts partook;
Him, now, upon the baldrick blonde Menelaos struck
As he was fleeing swiftly, and drove the brass clear
through,
He fell with crash resounding. But Menelaos drew
The body from the Trojans to his companion train. 575
But standing close by Hektor, Apollo urged amain,
Like Phainops, son of Asios, who from Abydos come,
And was the dearest guest-friend who dwelt within his
dome;
{Him, then, in form resembling, far-darting Phoebus said:]
“ Hektor, what other Achaian will hold you now in
dread, 580
Since now this Menelaos you fly, who aye before
Was but a sorry warrior? Yet now, alone, he bore
The body from the Trojans, has your true friend undone,
Warring amid the foremost, Podes, Eetion’s son.”
Thus he; and sable darkness of sorrow came o’er
him; 585
He went on through the vanguard, brass-armed and glit-
tering grim.
Then Zeus took up his aegis which many a tassel trailed,
Refulgent, and the mountains of Ide with storm-clouds
veiled
And, lightning, thundered loudly and shook it from the
hight,
And ee the Trojans victory and turned th’ Achaians to
flight. 590
Peneleus, the Boeotian, the first, the panic took.
For at th’ extremest shoulder with slight wound was he
struck,
Turned ever to the foemen; but great Polydamas’ spear
Grazed on the bone before it; for he struck while he came
near.
Then Hektor wounded Leitos on the hand upon the

wrist, 505
BOOK XVII 383

Son of great-souled Alektryon, and caused him to desist
From war; he fled in terror, and no more in spirit planned
To battle with the Trojans, holding his spear in hand.
Idomeneus struck Hektor, who after Leitos pressed,
A blow upon the corselet by the nipple of the breast; 600
The long spear broke at socket; the Trojans shouted loud.
But Hektor flung his javelin at Idomeneus who stood
Aloft upon his chariot; yet erred a space the spear;
But struck Merion’s companion who was his charioteer,
Koiranos, who had followed from well-built Lyktos
here 605
(For first he* came a footman, his ships rowed equally
He left and would have given the Trojans victory,
Had Koiranos not driven the foot-swift steeds afray,
And thus to him brought safety and fenced the crucl day;
But his own life was taken by Hektor homicide, 610
Who struck ’neath ear and jaw-bone); the spear-point
pushed aside
The teeth in passing onward and cut the middle tongue.
He fell out of the chariot, to earth the guide-reins flung,
And from the plain Meriones these in his own hands took,
Bending himself to seize them, and Idomeneus be-
spoke: 615
“Urge on with the scourge the horses till the rapid
ships you gain,
For you yourself may see that th’ Achaians fight in vain.”
Thus he; Idomeneus scourged on the steeds with beau-
teous mane
Upon the hollow vessels; and fear his mind inrolled.
Yet Zeus watched Menelaos and Ajax mighty-souled, 620
When now he gave the Trojans the doubtful victory.
But great Telamonian Ajax spoke to them earnestly:
“ Ye gods, ’t is very certain, the stupidest might know
That even Zeus, the Father, succours the Trojan foe.
The darts of all strike surely, whoever lets them fall, 625
If strenuous or unwarlike, since Zeus directs them all;
While with us all our missiles fall to the earth oppressed.
Yet come, let us consider what counsel is the best:
How we may drag the body, and how we may become

*Merion.
384 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

A joy to our dear comrades when we have reached our
home. 630

When they look here they sorrow and think we cannot bide

The strength and hands unconquered of Hektor homicide,

Yet that we fall in ruin here by the vessels black.

Would that there were some comrade to bear quick mes-
sage back

To Pelides; since I think that to him is nowise known 635

The sorrow-weighted message that his dear friend has
gone.

Yet I can see in nowise such Achaian to assist,

For both ourselves and horses are wrapped in dusky mist.

Zeus Father, free, I pray you, the Achaians’ sons from
night,

And give us cloudless ether, and let us see the light, 640

And in the light destroy us, if now you wish it so.”

Thus he; the Father pitied him, weeping in his woe,
And quickly scattered darkness and drove the cloud away;
The sun shone clear above them and lightened all the

fray.—
Ajax hight Menelaos, good at the battle-cry; 645

“ Zeus-nurtured Menelaos, look well if you may spy
Antilochos, if living, great-minded Nestor’s son,

And urge him to Achilles warlike in haste to run,
And say to him his comrade most cherished has been
killed.”

Thushe; nor disobeyed him Menelaos, battle-skilled, 650
But hastened as a lion from stalls where oxen stay,

When he is tired inciting the dogs and men at bay,

Who do not let him seize on the fat of oxen great,

And watch all night; he, longing for flesh, drives on them
straight,

Yet by it profits nothing, for thick the javelins bear 655

In rapid flight against him, impelled by hands which dare;

And blazing torches frighthim; thoughhe be much in-
clined,

He goes away at morning afflicted in his mind;

Thus from Patroklos’ body Menelaos, good in war,

Went very much unwilling; he feared th’ Achaians
there 660
BOOK XVII 385

From grievous fear might leave it a spoil for hostile hands.
Thus to Merion and th’ Ajaces he gave full many com-
mands:
“ Ajaces, Argive leaders, and you Meriones, too,
Remember poor Patroklos, so gentle and so true;

For well he knew, while living, to be a joy to all; 665
But now guard well his body, since death and fate befal.”
Thus saying, blonde Menelaos proceeded on his way,

Observing well about him, like eagle, who, they say,

Possesses sharpest vision of all birds ’neath the sky,

Nor does the fleet hare ’scape him (though he soar very
high), 670

Lying in close-set thicket; he rushes on the prey

And, seizing on it quickly, takes fain its life away;

Thus, Zeus-bred Menelaos, you turned both radiant eyes

About in all directions amid your many allies

To see the son of Nestor, if he were living yet. 675

To left of all the battle that chief his vision met,

Who strengthened his companions and urged them on
to fight.

But, standing close beside him, blonde Menelaos hight:

“ Antilochos Zeus-nurtured, come hither that you know

The grievous tale of sorrow—would that it were not
so! 680

I think that now I see you expecting to be told

Some god a great misfortune on the Danaans has rolled,

With victory for the Trojans.—The best Achaian is killed,

Patroklos, and the Danaans with great desire* are filled. —

Yet to the Danaans’ vessels run quickly with all force, 685

And tell divine Achilles, that he the naked corse

May save, perchance; but Hektor, helm-glancing, has
the arms.”

Thus spoke he; and Antilochos shuddered to hear the

harms.

Long, lack of words possessed him; and both his eyes were
filled

By tears to overflowing, and his fair voice was stilled. 690

Yet he nowise neglected what Menelaos told,

But ran and gave his armour to his companion bold,

*For Patroklos.
386 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Laodokos, who guided his whole-hoofed horses near.
Him, while he wept profusely, his feet bore from the war
To Achilles, son of Peleus, to tell the message dire. 695
Yet, Zeus-bred Menelaos, your mind did not desire
To guard your worn companions where Antilochos went
away.
But great longing seized the Pylians at his absence from
the fray;
Yet godlike Thrasymedes to them at once he sent,
And himself toward the place of hero Patroklos went; 700
Then ran to the Ajaces and them at once addressed:
“‘ Him to the rapid vessels I have dispatched in haste
To go to fleet Achilles; Pelides will not go
At once, I think, though angered ’gainst godlike Hektor
$0;
For, lacking arms, the Trojans he could nowise contest.705
But we ourselves should think out what counsel is the best:
How we may save the body, and how ourselves may fly
The combat with the Trojans and death and Keres nigh.”
Great Telamonian Ajax him, then, in turn addressed:
“ All have you said as fated, Menelaos manifest, 710
Yet you and Merion quickly go forth, and stooping low,
Raise up and bear the body from the tumult and the foe.
Behind we twain with Trojans and Hektor divine wil! war,
Both having equal spirit, like named, and who before,
Remaining by each other, sustained sharp Mars’

alarms.” 715
Thus he; and they the body from earth raised in their
arms

On high; the Trojan people behind them clamour spread,
When they beheld th’ Achaians thus bearing off the dead.
Like dogs they rushed straight onward, who on a wounded

boar
Rush ere the youthful hunters who speed with all their
power; 720

Awhile they rush on after, eager to tear in flight,

Yet when he turns upon them, confiding in his might,

They flee back in swift terror and scatter here and there;

Thus the Trojans, while they ever in concourse onward
bare,
BOOK XVII 387

Struck with their swords and javelins which bore a two-
edged blade; 725

Yet when th’ Ajaces, turning, a stand against them made,

Their colour changed, nor dared they rush to fight around
the dead.

Thus eagezly the body they from the warring bore
Upon the hollow vessels; though yet the battle sore,
Like fire, to them extended, which grasps a city of men 730
And, rushing, swiftly burns it; the houses lessen then
In the great blaze; and through it roars loud the wind’s

full sway;
Thus the ill-echoing tumult pursued them going away
(Of chariots and of horses and men with bucklers dight).
But they dragged as strong mules draw (exerting powerful

might) 735
By rough path down the mountain a ship’s great beam or
spar,

And their minds are worn by labour and sweat as they
haste there;

Thus with zeal they bore the body. The two Ajaces
stood

Behind and held the Trojans, just as a belt of wood

Repels a flood of water, reaching across the plain 740

Which stems the noxious currents of mighty streams amain

And turns the flowing currents of all upon the plain;

Nor does the rushing river break through by any might;

Thus ever the Ajaces pushed backward in the fight

The Trojans; but they followed, and two of them the
most, 745

Anchises’ son, Aineas and Hektor, Ilion’s boast.

And as a cloud of starlings or daws will turn and fly

With clamour dire on seeing a hawk approaching nigh,

Which bears to little birdlings destruction without ruth;

Thus fore Aeneas and Hektor all the Achaian youth 750

Went with terrific clamour, and they forgot to war.

And in the trench and round it there fell much armour
fair

Of the Danaans who were flying; but the battle ceased
not there.
388 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

BOOK XVIII.

THE MAKING OF THE ARMS.

Thus, then, they kept on fighting in the form of spark-
ling flame;
But Antilochos as messenger soon to Achilles came.
He found him by the vessels of lofty stern and prow,
Revolving in his spirit what deeds were fated now,

And saying in his sorrow to his great-hearted soul: 5
“ Ah me! Why do th’ Achaians, long-haired, confus-
edly roll

Back on the ships, in terror dispersing on the plain?

I fear me that the godheads ill cares for me ordain,

‘Since once my mother told me, with many a phrase beset,

That the bravest Myrmidonian, while I was living yet,

Smit by the hands of Trojans, would leave the sunlight
spread.

In sooth, the powerful son of Menoitios must be dead;

The wretched one! I told him, when he’d the fire de-
barred,

To come back to the vessels, nor fight with Hektor hard.”

But, while in mind and spirit he turned these matters

high, 15
The son of highborn Nestor approached him and stood
nigh,
Pouring down burning tear-drops, and told his message
drear:

“ QO son of warlike Peleus, alas! Soon shall you hear
Avery mournful message—would that ’t were not perforce!
Patroklos lies o’ermastered, and round his naked corse 20
They battle; but his armour helm-glancing Hektor bears.”

Thus he; and o’er him settled a sable cloud of cares;
And, seizing dust and ashes with both his hands, he piled
Them on his head in sorrow, and his fair face defiled.
O’er his nectarean tunic the ashes dark were shed. 25
His own huge bulk extended wide o’er the dust outspread;
And with his hands he seized on his hair and foully tore.
BOOK XVIII 389

The maidens, whom Patroklos and he in plundering

bore,

Shrieked greatly, grieved in spirit,and ran outside the door

Around Achilles warlike, and all their bosoms struck 30

With frenzied hands; the members of each, relaxing,
shook.

Meanwhile Antilochos sorrowed and felt the tear-drops’
smart,

Achilles’ hand caressing, and groaned in his high heart;

For he feared that he might open his own throat with his
sword,

So direly he lamented. His reverenced motherheard 35

(Sitting in Ocean’s caverns beside her father old),

And sent forth ululations; and round about were told

All of old Nereus’ daughters at the bottom of the sea.

There were Thalia, Glauké and eke Komodoké,

Nesai3, Spio, Tho3 and great-eyed Halie, 40

Aktaié, Limnoria and eke Kymothoé,

Agav: and Amphithoé, Taira, Melité,

And Doto and Pherousa, Proto, Dynamené,

Dexamen?, Kallianira, with them Amphinomé,

Doris and Galatea renowned and Panope, 45

Nemertes and Apseudes and beauteous Kallianassa;

And there were Ianira, Klymené, and Ianassa,

Maira and Orithyia, Amathia with fair hair,

And more of Nereus’ daughters who in Ocean’s caverns
were.

With these the silvery cavern was filled, and allasone 50

Struck on their breasts, and Thetis the cry of wail begun:

“ Hear, daughters of old Nereus, that all of you may

know,

By hearing, all the sorrows which in my spirit flow.

Ah woe to me, unhappy. Ah me, who bore the best!

Who bore a blameless offspring, powerful and mani-
fest,— 55

Most excellent of heroes; he grew up like a plant;

And him I reared like sapling in field luxuriant,

And sent on curve-bowed vessel to sacred Ilion’s plain,

To battle with the Trojans, not to receive again

* Achilles.
390 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Returning safely homeward to Peleus’ palaces. 60
But while he yet is living and Helios’ radiance sees,
He grieves, nor am I able to aid him, going near.
I go that I may look on my dear son, that I hear
How sorrow came upon him while he abstained from war.”
Thus saying, sheleftthecavern;theNereidswithher 65
Went weeping; and around them the billows of the main
Were opened.—When they came to the fertile Trojan
lain,
They ao on shore in order where were full thickly drawn
The vessels of the Myrmidons round Peleus’ foot-swift son.
By him his reverenced mother stood, while deep groans
he sped 70
With piercing ululations, and took her own son’s head
And, while she there lamented, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“* My son, why do you sorrow? What grief has touch-
ed your breast ?
Speak out, and do not hide it; since Zeus gave those de-
mands,
Which erst you supplicated with your uplifted hands: 75
To drive back on the vessels all the Achaian bands,
So they might wish your succour and feel dishonour dread.”
Then to her fleet Achilles with heavy groaning said:
“* My mother, the Olympian for me these things has done.
But where is now the pleasure, since my dear friend has
gone, 80
Patroklos, whom I honoured the most of all my friends,
Like my own soul? I killed him; and Hektor, warring,
rends
From him his mighty armour—a miracle to see—
Fair, which the gods gave Peleus (splendid gratuity!),
That day when you to mortal in marriage bed they gave.85
Would that you ’mid the deathless, fair daughters of the
wave
Had dwelt, and they to Peleus had led a mortal bride.
But now, since in your bosom ten thousand sorrows hide,
Because your son must perish, nor you receive again
Him safely coming homeward;—nor does my soul con-
strain go
BOOK XVIII 301

Myself to live nor mingle with men, unless at first

Hektor, struck by my javelin, shall lose his life accurst,

And has, for Menoitiades, the price of blood restored.”

To him responded Thetis, whose copious tear-drops

poured:

“O son, soon will your fate be (from what you now de-
bate); 95

For, pressing that of Hektor, will come your ready fate.”

To her then, deeply sighing, foot-fleet Achilles said:

“ Then may I perish quickly since I no succour led

To guard my comrade dying. Far from his native land

He died, and wished my succour to ward the evil
banned.

But now, since I return not to my dear fatherland,

And nowise to Patroklos a light of safety shine,

Nor to my many comrades, subdued by Hektor divine,

But sit beside my vessels, a useless weight on earth,

Being such as is no other of high Achaian birth 105

In war; though in the council others are better far,

Would that, from men and godheads, might perish Dis-
cord’s jar

And Anger which the hero most prudent may provoke,

Which in the human bosom augments in size, like smoke.

Tis sweeter far than honey distilling from the den:

Thus, now against me angered Agamemnon, king of
men.—

Yet let us leave these bygones, though they an anguish be,

And tame the mind within us by hard necessity.

But now to the destroyer of this dear head I go,

Hektor; and fate destroying myself will undergo 115

Whene’er the other godheads and Zeus shall wish my end.

For naught the might Herculean did him from fate defend

(Who was of all most cherished by King Kronion Zeus);

Yet Fate tamed him and Hera’s wrath dire and ruinous.

Thus will I lie whenever such Fate approaches me, 120

Whene’er I die; at present let lofty glory be;

And some deep-breasted woman, Dardanian or of Troy,

May I constrain to frequent lamenting and annoy,

So tears from her cheeks tender with both her hands she
bear,
392 THE ILIAD OF.HOMER

And may they know the long time that I have ceased
from war. 125
Deny not war, though loving, for you will not persuade.”
Then silver-footed Thetis, the goddess, to him said:
“ My son, these things are certain and true; ’t is not ab-

horred

From your distressed companions destruction high to
ward.

Yet your all-beauteous armour among the Trojans
fares 130

(Brazen and brightly shining); helm-glancing Hektor bears
It proudly on his shoulders; yet no long time, I trow,
Will he exult in splendour, since near his o’erthrow.
Howe’er, approach in nowise Ares’ hostilities,
Before you see me coming hither with your own eyes. 135
For I will come at morning, when Helios’ rays first spring,
And I from King Hephaistosresplendent arms will bring.”
Thus saying, from her offspring she turned herself again,
And, turning round, she spoke to her sisters of the main:
“ Beneath the sea’s wide bosom descend you pre-

sently, 140
And you the Ocean’s ancient and our father’s domes will
see,

And all these matters tell him; to Olympus high I go,
To famed-in-art Hephaistos, to see if he’ll bestow
Upon my son famed armour, transcendent in its glow.”
Thus she; and they descended beneath the ocean
wave; 145
But silver-footed Thetis to high Olympus drave
That she might bring famed armour for her dear son to
wear.
Her, then to great Olympus her feet full quickly bare.
But th’Achaians to the vessels and Hellespontos wide
Fled with a boundless clamour from Hektor homicide. 150
Yet the well-greaved Achaians drew not Patroklos’ corse
Back from the darts (the servantg of great Achilles’ force);
For followed close behind him the people and the horse
And Hektor, son of Priam, like fire in might replete.—
Behind him, famous Hektor seized three times by the
feet,
BOOK XVIII 393

Desiring much to drag him, and much the Trojans hight;
And thrice the two Ajaces, endowed with rushing might,
Thrust him back from the body; he, with firm will en-
dowed
And in his might confiding, sometimes charged through
the crowd,
Or stopped and shouted loudly, but did not go away.—160
And as.the watching shepherds by no means from his prey
Can drive a tawny lion when pressed by hunger great;
Thus, now, the two Ajaces, in glittering arms elate,
Could not so frighten Hektor that he would leave the corse.
And there he would have dragged it and won great fame
perforce, 165
Had not fleet wind-foot Iris to great Pelides run
With message from Olympus his glittering arms to don
(Zeus and the gods not knowing), for Hera urged her on.
She, standing close beside him, with wingéd words spoke
then:
“ Arise for deeds, Pelides, most terrible of men, 170
And bring aid to Patroklos, for whom a combat ill
Is waged before the vessels. The foes each other kill:
And some stand there, defending the body of the slain;
The Trojans rush in fury that they may drag amain
To wind-swept Troy; most fiercely illustrious Hektor
seeks 175
To drag; his soul commands him to fix the head on stakes,
When, from the neck .dissevered, he has in full control.
But come, lie there no longer, let reverence touch your soul.
For, if Patroklos’ body to Trojan dogs were prey,
It were to you dishonour—if outraged any way.” 180
Divine foot-fleet Achilles said then in turn to her:
“ What god, O goddess Iris, sent you a messenger ?”
Again swift wind-foot Iris in turn addressed him thus:
“°T is Hera who has sent me, the glorious wife of Zeus;
And Kronides high-dwelling naught of the matter
knows, 185
Nor any other immortal of Olympus, clad in snows.”
To her foot-swift Achilles in answer made address:
“ How shall I go to battle while these my arms possess ?
My-mother dear allows not to arm in any wise,
394 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Before herself returning I look on with my eyes. 190

She promised from Hephaistos resplendent arms to bear.—

I know no other hero whose famed arms I could wear,

Unless it were the buckler of Ajax Telamon.

I think that ’mid the foremost that chief himself has gone

And wields his spear in battle around Patroklos dead.” 195

Then fleet wind-footed Iris to him in answer said:

“ We know well that your armour illustrious they hold.

E’en thus, go to the fossa, and to the Trojans bold

Appear; and thus the Trojans may fear and hold from war,

And the brave sons of th’ Achaians, though worn, may
breathe once more; 200

Thus in the hostile warring will be a brief delay.”

Saying thus, fleet-footed Iris departed on her way.

But Zeus-beloved Achilles rose up; Athena cast

Around his mighty shoulders the aegis fringed and vast;

Then the divine of goddesses his head with cloud of
gold 205

Encircled, and from out it a glittering flame unrolled.

As when a smoke arises from a city to the air,

Far distant on an island where hostile men make war,

And all day long they struggle in hated Ares’ jar

(Going out from their city); but with the setting sun 210

Burn bright the thick fire-signals, and to the heavens run

The darting, sparkling splendours, that the dwellers
round may see,

So they come upon their vessels, warders of war to be;

Thus the glow came to the ether from Achilles’ head with-
al.

He stood beside the fossa, descending from the wall, 215

But mixed not with th’ Achaians (his mother’s wise com-
mands

He feared), yet stood and shouted; afar amid the bands

Athena called, and tumult among the Trojans rose.

As when with tone sonorous a clanging trumpet blows,

When city is beleaguered by life-destroying foes; 220

Thus, then, the voice sonorous of Aiakides was inferred.

But when the brazen accents of Atakides they heard,

The minds of all were troubled; the steeds with beauteous
manes
BOOK XVIII 395

Turned backward with their chariots, for in mind they
augured pains.
The charioteers were frenzied when they saw th’ un-

wearied fire, 225
Which o’er great-souled Pelides’ head hovered, burning
dire;

Fierce-eyed Athena, goddess, had lit that flame of loss.

Divine Achilles shouted three times beside the fosse;

And thrice confused the Trojans and their renowned allies.

And at this time there perished twelve noble enemies, 230

Impeded by their chariots and by their spears impaled.

But joyfully th’ Achaians Patroklos’ body haled

From darts and placed in litter; his dear companions stood

Around, oppressed by sorrow; foot-swift Achilles viewed

With them, hot tear-drops pouring, since on the bier
forlorn 235

He saw his true friend lying, all by the sharp brass torn.

And he had sent him erstwhile with chariots and with horse

To warring, but received not returning from his course.

Then ox-eyed reverenced Hera sent on the tireless sun,

That to the streams of Ocean he, though not fain, should
run; 240

So Helios sank in Ocean; the divine Achaians forebore

The powerful din of battle and war with equal sore.

On the other side, the Trojans went from the powerful

war,

And loosened from their chariots the rapid steeds which
bare,

And gathered for a council ere they for supper cared. 245

All stood erect in council, for none among them dared

To sit, for all were trembling because Achilles there

Appeared, who long had ceased from the sorrow-causing
war.

To them Polydamas prudent began to speak in haste,

Panthoides, who only saw the future and the past. 250

He was a friend of Hektor; both in one night were born;

And one surpassed in counsel, one, much with spear un-
worn.

But he, their weal desiring, harangued them and ad-
dressed :
396 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“* My friends, both sides consider; I bid you, as the best,
To go now to the city, nor wait the sacred dawn 255
Aplain beside the vessels, far from the wall withdrawn.
While yet this chief was angered ’gainst Agamemnon di-

vine,
So long it was more facile to fight th’ Achaian line.
Then by the rapid vessels I joyed to watch all night,
Hoping to take the vessels, on both sides equal dight. 260
But swift-of-foot Pelides now terribly I fear;
Such is his haughty spirit that he will not stay here
Upon the plain where Trojans and the Achaians great,
Both, struggle in the middle with victory alternate;
Yet for our wives and city he'll battle eagerly. 265
Then go we to the city—hear me—for thus ’t will be.
But now foot-swift Pelides is stopped in his career
By the power of night ambrosial; yet if he find us here
To-morrow when he rushes in arms, he’ll be well known.—
The one who flies will gladly reach sacred Ilion; 270
And Trojan dogs and vultures will eat of many dead;
But would that such a sorrow ne’er to my ears were said.
Yet if you hear my accents, though much you be cast down
We'll have strength in the council throughout the night;

the town,
The towers and lofty portals and planking o’er them
barred, 275
Long and full deftly polished, joined each to each, will
guard.

But, decked out in our armour at morning’s earliest fire,

We'll stand upon the turrets; ’t were hard should he desire,

Coming from the ships, to battle around the wall perforce.

He’ll go back to the vessels when, by his varied course, 280

His high-necked steeds are sated, going ‘neath the city’s

din.

Yet his spirit will in nowise suffer him to rush in;

And he will ne’er destroy it ere swift dogs tear him dead.”
But gazing on him grimly, helm-glancing Hektor said:

“* Polydamas, no longer you speak for what I care; 285

You bid us seek the city and stay assembled there.

Do you ne’er tire of staying within the towers enthralled ?

For all men speech-dividing before this ever called
BOOK XVIII 307

King Priam’s mighty city wealthy in brass and gold.

Now the fair wealth has vanished which once our man-
sions told; 290

’ And many of these possessions have been already sold

In Phrygia and Maionia, since great Jove’s wrath begun.

But, since it has been given me by wily Kronos’ son

‘To gain fame by the vessels and hem th’ Achaians asea—

lool, spread such thoughts no longer ’mid th’ army reck-
lessly. 295

For no Trojan will obey you; that I will not allow.

But come, and as I tell you, let all obey me now:

‘Thus now throughout the army in ranks your supper take,

And bear in mind your vigils; let each one watch and wake

But who among the Trojans too much for wealth may
care, 300

Collect his wealth and give it for all the folk to share;

For, rather than th’ Achaians, ’t would better such adorn.

Bedecked with glittering armour, let us to-morrow morn

Beside the hollow vessels awaken acrid Mars.—

If truly by the vessels divine Achilles wars, 305

And wishes for the combat, ’t were worse for him by far.

For I will not fly from him in evil-echoing war,

Yet stand against him firmly, whichever gain great praise.

For Mars is ever doubtful and e’en the slayer slays.”

Thus Hektor spoke; the Trojans acclaimed through

their array. 310

Fools!’ For Athena Pallas had ta’en their sense away.

For they agreed with Hektor who ill advice pursued,

And noone praised Polydamas who gave themcounsels good.

The host thus took their supper, but the Achaians sped

All night their lamentations and mourned Patroklos
dead, 355

And with them there Pelides the ceaseless wailing led,

And on his comrade’s bosom his slaughtering hands pre-
ferred

With frequent lamentations; as lion with great beard,

Whose cubs a man stag-hunting has taken secretly

From the dense wood; when later, he* comes he grieves
to see; 320

*The lion.
398 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And goes through many valleys seeking the hunter’s path,

That he, perchance, may find him, for grievous is his
wrath;

Thus he, while deeply groaning, to the Myrmidonians
said:

“Ye gods, vainglorious speeches upon that day I made,
When J encouraged hero Menoitios in our hall, 325
And said that I to Opuns would bring his son withal,
When Ilion was ruined and the spoil assigned by !ot.

But Zeus does not accomplish all things by human thought

For both of us are fated to stain with blood the earth

Here on the plains of Troja; nor, when I hence go
forth, 330

Shall I at home be greeted by horseman Peleus old,

Nor by my mother Thetis; yet here the earth will hold.

Howe’er, since now, Patroklos, later than you I fare

’Neath earth, I will not bury with rites till here I bear

The arms and head of Hektor, your slayer mighty-soul-
ed, 335

Tilltwelve famed sons of Trojans before your pyre are told,

And are by me beheaded, enraged that you are slain.

Now by the curve-bowed vessels shall you by me remain,

While Trojan, Dardan women, deep-breasted, round
shall mourn,

(And day and night their tear drops shall to the earth be
borne), 340

Who by our force and labour and long spear wore my chain

When we destroyed rich cities of speech-dividing men.”

Thus saying, divine Achilles to his companions called
To place an ample tripod upon the fire installed
To cleanse Patroklos quickly from filthy slime and

blood. 345
Thus they a bathing tripod upon the bright fire stood,
And poured pure water in it and lit the fagots brought;
The fire rose round the tripod and made the water hot.
When in the brass resplendent they made the water boil,
They washed the body quickly and ointed with rich

oil, 350
And filled the wound with ointment which nine full years

had told,
BOOK XVIII 399

And placed on couch and wrapped it in finest linen fold
From head to foot, and o’er it they laid a mantle white.
Then, round foot-swift Achilles the Myrmidons all night
Lamented for Patroklos, and many a tear-drop shed.—355
But Zeus then to his sister and consort, Hera, said:
“ Ox-eyed and reverenced Hera, well has your purpose
sped:
To rouse foot-swift Achilles; since, doubtless, it is true
That the long-haired Achaians may claim descent from
you.”
Then ox-eyed réverenced Hera to him in answer said: 360
“ Austerest son of Kronos, what speech is this you made!
For, surely, any mortal might do this with a man,
E’en though he were not deathless, nor knew so many a
lan.
Yet how shall 1, who boast me the best of goddesses,
Both, since I am your consort and from my ancestries, 365
With you o’er all th’ immortals extend not scepter dire?
How should I not plan evils to the Trojans in my ire?”
Thus they discoursed together about such things with-
al._—
But silver-footed Thetis came to Hephaistos’ hall,
Adorned with stars and deathless, of brass and far dis-
played 370
Among th’ immortals’ mansions; which erst the Limping
made.
And there she found him sweating, amid the bellows
placed;
For fully twenty tripods he wrought in greatest haste
To stand around the wall of the well-foundationed hall;
And golden wheels were fashioned around the base of

all, 375
That they the heavenly council, self-moved, might enter
free,

And come back to his palace—a miracle to see!

Thus far were they completed; but not yet were arrayed

The dedal ears just fashioned and the rivets which he
made.

But at these things he laboured with spirit skilled and
high 380
400 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Till silver-footed Thetis, the goddess, came anigh.
Fair Charis with bright head-band, advancing, saw her
there
(Charis whom noble Vulcan took for his consort fair),
And, to her hand adhering, she spoke the word and said:
“© garment-trailing Thetis, why have you hither
sped, 385
Honoured and loved? Not often you erstwhile did I view.
Yet pass along before me that I place feast for you.”
Thus having said, the heavenly of goddesses led on,
And afterwards arrayed her on silver-studded throne,
Beauteous and dedal; ’neath it there was a footstool
trim. 390
She called famed craftsman Vulcan and spoke the word
to him:
“Come forward now, Hephaistos, Thetis has need of
you.”
Illustrious Hephaistos her then made answer due:
“ Surely, within my dwelling is goddess terrible,
Who saved me when a sorrow oppressed, and far I fell 395
By my base mother’s counsel, who had erewhile designed
To hide me, who was limping; I had suffered griefs in mind,
If Thetis and Eurynomé had ta’en not in their breast,
Eurynom, the daughter of Ocean refluent pressed.
For them much dedal brass-work for nine long years I

wrought 400
(Buckles and twisted bracelets, chains with adornments
fraught),

Within the hollow cavern. And Ocean’s boundless flood

Flowed round with foam-wreaths murmuring; nor any
other god

Knew that I stayed there hidden, nor any of mortal men.

Yet Thetis and Eurynomé knew, who had saved me
then. 405

But now my halls you visit; and there’s much need to-day

To Thetis with fair tresses my ransom to repay.

Yet hasten to make ready the banquet shining fair,

While I remove my bellows and all the tools I bear.”

Thus he, and from the anvil’s support his monstrous

form 410
BOOK XVIII 4ot

Raised up and limped; beneath him wavered his legs de-
form.

Hetook from fire the bellows, and all the tools were brought

And put in chest of silver which he with toil had wrought;

Then both his hands and visage with netted sponge he

dressed,
His neck which swelled with vigour and eke his hairy
breast. 415

He cast his tunic o’er him, and took his scepter stout,

And, limping, passed the portal; and golden maids about
The king moved to support him—like living maidens all;
And in their minds were judgment and voice and strength

to thrall;
They from the gods immortal their skill in work had
learned. 420

They stayed the king in walking, for to and fro he turned.
He came near Thetis, sat on his throne which splendour

shed,
And hung upon her hand-clasp and spoke the word and
said:
“ Why, garment-trailing Thetis, do you come to my
dome,
Honoured and cherished? Erstwhile you did not often
come. 425

Speak what you think; my spirit bids me do that anon;
If I have power to compass, and if it may be done.”

To him then answered Thetis, shedding full many a tear:
“ Vulcan is there a goddess on high Olympus here,
Who could such bitter sorrows within her mind — sus-

tain 430

As those which Zeus Kronion gave me to bear in pain ?
Me from the other Nereids he chose a man to wed,
Peleus, the son of Aiakos; and I bore a human bed,
Though very much unwlling; now in his halls he lives
By sad old age afflicted. But Zeus still sorrow gives; 435
Since he to bear and nurture a warrior son gave me,
Illustrious ’mid heroes; he grew up like a tree.
And him I fondly nourished like plant in fertile spot,
And on bow-curving vessels to sacred {lion brought
To battle with the Trojans; nore’er returning home, 440
402 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Shall I again receive him within the Pelean dome.

While he is living with me and sees the sun and shade,

He is oppressed by sorrow, and I can bear no aid.

The maiden for him chosen by the Achaian bands

As gift, King Agamemnon has ravished from his hands.445

For her his spirit withered in grief; the Trojans proud

Hemmed th’ Achaians ’mid their vessels, and from their
gates allowed

‘Them not to go. The Argive leaders and rulers old

Besought him and full many illustrious presents told.

Then he refused to aid them to drive away their
harms; 450

But afterward Patroklos he clad in his own arms,

And sent him forth to combat and gave a great array.

And round the Skaian portals they battled all the day.

‘That very day the city th’ Achaian bands had won,

Had not Apollo vanward killed Menoitios’ powerful
son 455

(Who wrought there many evils), giving fame to Hektor
brave.

Now, for the deeds accomplished, before your knees I
crave

To give my son, soon fated, helmet and buckler brave

And greaves of glittering beauty with buckles joined and

bossed,
And corselet; for the others his faithful comrade
lost 460

When mastered by the Trojans; on earth he* lies in pain.”
To her illustrious Vulcan in answer spoke again:

“ Bestrong! Let not these matters give to your spirit care

Would that from death ill-echoing I might as lightly bear,

As that there shall be ready to give him armour fair; 465

And such shall be its splendour that whosoe’er may see

Shall marvel, though selected from many men he be.”
Thus saying, he departed and to the bellows run,

And turned them to the fire-place and ordered labour done.

Then all the twenty bellows upon the furnace blew, 470

And sent a blast all-varied and regulated true,

To beat hand when Vulcan hastened, now here, now there,

* Achilles.
BOOK XVIII 403

Just as the craftsman wished it his labour to prepare.

He cast then in the fire-place tin and unmastered brass
And precious gold and silver; the anvil’s mighty mass 475
On the anvil-block he lifted, and took up with one hand
The hammer strong; the other the ready pincers spanned.

The first of all he fashioned the buckler strong and vast,
And wrought it all in dedal, and bright rim round it cast,
Three plated and resplendent; a silver strap he made. 480
Of five folds was the buckler; and o’er it he arrayed
Full many a dedal figure, by skillful mind brought forth.

And there he wrought the heaven, the ocean and the

earth
And Helios unwearied, the full moon looking down,
And all the constellations which heaven wears in its
crown: 485
The Pleiades, the Hyades, Orion’s strength withal,
The Bear, which also Wagon, in surname, mortals call;
Which there revolves, pursuing Orion in his path;
And it alone is fated to share not Ocean’s bath.

On it he made two cities of speech-dividing men, 490
Beauteous: in one were bridals and festal banquets then.
They led brides from their chambers ’neath fiery torches’

gleam
Through the city; and rang loudly the hymeneal hymn.
Among them flutes and citherns gave forth a thrilling tone;
The women stood in porches and wondered every one. 495
A thronging crowd of people was gathered in the mart;
For there had risen a quarrel in which two men took part
About the weregild plighted for a man who had been

killed;
And one of them affirmed that all dues had been fulfilled,
Appealing to the people; but this the other denied. 500

So both desired to give it to judges to decide.

The people who supported each side applauded that;

The heralds quelled the people; and all the elders sat

On polished stones among them, in sacred circle near,

And held in hand the scepters of the heralds calling
clear. 505

But afterward they rose up to judge for either side.

And there two golden talents lay in the middle wide,
404 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Togiveto him who judgment most fitting should provide.
But round the other city there were two hosts arrayed,
Glittering in arms, and double the counsels they dis-
displayed: 510
Either to waste the city, or portion equally
All weaith within the city, which pleasant was to see;
Yet they* would not obey them and ‘armed an ambuscade.
Their cherished wives and children of few years were

display ed,
Standing upon the ramparts; with them the warriors
old. 515

Themselves advanced, and led them Pallas and Ares bold;
Both wearing golden armour and robes with golden
gleams;
Both, fair and great in armour, just as two gods beseems,
Both, radiant all about them; the people less were made.
But when they reached a station fitting for ambuscade, 520
By a river where to water all sorts of herds might pass,
They chose the place and sat down, clad in resplendent
brass.
Far from them, from the army two spies on watch so-
journed,
That they might sheep discover or oxen crooked-horned.
The herds soon came before them, and followed herdmen
two, 525
Playing upon the syrinx; and naught of fraud they knew.
The spies then rushed upon them, and quickly slaughtered
there
The herds of oxen round them and eke the flocks full fair
Of snowy sheep, and slaughtered with them the herdsmen
two.
But when they of the tumult among the oxen knew —530
(Those who sat in the council), they went at once on horse.
High-vaulting in their going, and soon attained the force,
They stopped and fought a battle beside the river’s banks,
And cast their brass-shod javelins upon each other’s ranks.
With them were Discord, Tumult; with them was baleful

Fate, 535

Having one living, wounded, and one inviolate;
*The citizens,
BOOK XVIII 405

And by the feet she dragged one who in the war was dead.
The robe upon her shoulders with human blood was red.
Yet they, like living mortals, mingled and fought amain,
And dragged each other’s corpses as if they had been
slain. 540
On it he made a fallow and eke a fertile field,
Broad, with a triple ploughing; and many ploughmen
wheeled
Their teams about the fallow and turned them here and
there.
When to the field’s last limits they, in returning, bare,
Aman came out toward them, and gave acup inhand 545
Of wine as sweet as honey; then each turned to his land,
Wishing to reach the limits of the fallow land profound.
And this was black behind them, just like new ploughed
up ground,
Though golden; ’t was a marvel greater than others borne.
On it he wrought a temenos, sustaining dense, deep
corn; 550
And there were reapers reaping with sickles sharp in hand.
Some handfuls by the furrow fell thickly on the land,
And others the sheaf-binders securely tied with band.
Three binders followed after the reapers; but behind
Came boys collecting handfuls, and gave to them to
bind, 555
Upon their bent arms bearing; the king among them stood
In silence with his scepter and was of joyous mood.
Heralds apart a banquet beneath an oak-tree made,
A great ox sacrificing, and diligence displayed;
And women strewed much barley white o’er the meat
arrayed 560
For supper for the reapers, to make their spirit glad.
On it he wrought a vineyard which grapes full heavy
had,
Golden and fair; the clusters were sable all about.
And stood aloft, supported by silver pales throughout.
He drew round it a fossa of kyanos and a hedge 567
Of tin; and but one pathway came to the vineyard’s edge,
By which the gatherers entered when they for vintage
went.
406 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And young and tender maidens, with spirits innocent, .

Bore off in woven baskets the honey-dulcet fruit.

Amid them in the middle a boy on shrill-toned lute 570

Played sweetly for the concourse and sang to the fair chords

With tender voice; together they broke in on his words

With song and shout, and followed by dancing with their
feet.

He wrought a herd of oxen with heads erect on it.

The heifers there were fashioned from shining gold and
tin,

And from the stall to pasture they rushed with bellowing
din,

Along a murmuring river where waving reeds were blent.

And there four golden herdsmen beside the oxen went;

And nine dogs rapid-footed were with the men impelled.

But two terrific lions ’mid the first oxen held 580

A bull which bellowed loudly; but he was dragged in
blood,

Although he bellowed greatly, and youths and dogs pur-
sued.—

The lions from the bullock tore off the skin amain,

And lapped black blood and entrails; the herdsmen hied
in vain

After them and encouraged the rapid dogs to fight. 585

Yet they turned from the lions and were averse to bite;

But, standing very near them, they barked and harmed
them not.

On it illustrious Vulcan a breadth of pasture wrought
Amid fair mountain passes, which many white sheep bore,
And stables and wide sheepfolds and dwellings covered

o’er. 590

Illustrious Hephaistos a chorus there applied,

Equal to that which erstwhile in Knossos fair and wide

Famed Daidalos had made for Ariadné with fair hair.

And there young men were dancing, and maidens won-
drous fair,

Holding each other dancing by the hand close by the
wrist. 505

The maids fine linen garments had on; the youths were
dressed
BOOK XVIII 407

In tunics deftly woven, as if bright oil they bore.
The maids had beauteous garlands; the blooming young

men wore
Gold falchions which were hanging from belts in silver
done.
Sometimes they round the circle with skillful feet would
run 600

Full lightly, as some potter, who sits, makes trial to know
Whether his wheel, well-fitted to his deft hands, will go;
Again, back through the orders of one another they flew,
While round the pleasant dancing a great assembly drew,
Delighted; and among them the godlike minstrel

sung, 605
Striking upon the cithern; ’mid them two tumblers
sprun,
And, with their song’s beginning, spun round the middle
at length.
On it he wrought the River Ocean’s transcendent
strength,—

Around the rim extremest of the buckler well-arrayed.
But when the buckler solid and mighty he had
made, 610
He wrought for him a corselet brighter than sparkling fire,
And made a valid helmet fit for his temples dire
(Dedal and fair), and o’er it a golden crest was spread;
And out of tin all-ductile the well-wrought greaves he led.
But when illustrious Vulcan had all the armour
wrought, 615
Before Achilles’ mother the glittering prize he brought.
And she, like hawk, leapt down from Olympus’ snowy
hight,
Bearing Pon great Hephaistos the armour shining bright.
408 THE ILIAD OF HOMER
BOOK XIX.

THE RECONCILIATION.

Eos, with saffron garments, from Ocean’s currents
bright
Rose that she to immortals and mortals might bear light;
But Thetis to the vessels bore the gifts the god had made.—
She found her cherished offspring beside Patroklos laid,
Lamenting sore; and round him mourned many com-
panions good.
Then the divine of goddesses ‘mid those assembled stood
And, to his hand adhering, she spoke the word and said:
“ My son, let this pass from us, though feeling sorrow
dread,
Since by the godheads’ counsels he fell in war’s alarms;
But now, from great Hephaistos take these illustrious
arms, 10
All-fair and such as hero ne’er on his shoulders bore.”
And, speaking thus, the goddess the armour placed
before
Achilles; and resounded the wrought arms loud and clear.
Yet all the Myrmidonians were seized by tremor drear,
And no one dared gaze on them, but fled in panic fear. 15
But when Achilles saw them, he felt a greater ire;
His eyes beneath his eyebrows, like sparkling flame, shone
dire;
And he rejoiced, possessing the high gifts of the god.—
When he his mind had solaced by seeing the works be-
stowed,
At once to his dear mother these wingéd words he said: 20
“A god gave you this armour, my mother, such is made
Only by the immortals; no mortal could make such.
Now I will arm me quickly but I fear very much
Lest, meanwhile, in the bodv of Menoitios’ brave son pass
Flies, which may make their entrance by wounds torn by
the brass, : 25
And breed there worms defiling and desecrate the clay
BOOk XIX 409

(For life has now departed), and make the flesh decay. ”
Then silver-footed Thetis, the goddess, answer bare:
“\ My son, let not such matters be for your soul a care.
From him the swarms ferocious I’ll try to ward amain, 30
The flies, who ever feast on the men in battle slain.
For, if the corpse shall lie there till full a year be given,
The flesh still uncorrupted shall be or better even.
But the Achaian warriors to counsel now evoke,
Make peace with Agamemnon, the pastor of the folk, 35
And arm at once for warring; put on your might at
length.”
Thus saying she endowed him with many-daring
strength;
But the nostrils of Patroklos she filled with nectar red
And ambrosia, that the body should lie there undecayed.
Divine Achilles went forth by the border of the main, 40
Shouting with mighty clamour and roused th’ Achaian
train.
And those who in the concourse of the vessels erstwhile
dwelled,
Both those who were the pilots and vessels’ rudders held,
And the pursers of the vessels who were the givers of
food,—
E’en these came to the council, because Achilles showed 45
Himself, who long had kept from the grievous battle’s jars.
And first came forward, limping, two servants of fierce
Mars,
Tydides, strong in warring, with him Odysseus divine,
Upon his spear supported; for he still had wounds ma-
lign;—
Advancing ’mid the foremost, they sat in all men’s ken. 50
But last of all came ’mid them Agamemnon, king of men,
Having a wound; for erstwhile, amid the powerful fight,
Koon, Antenor’s offspring, had struck with spear brass-
dight.
But when all the Achaians in throngs had hither sped,
Achilles rapid-footed amid them rose and said: 55
“ Atrides, peace were better for us on either part,
For you and me, though either was much aggrieved at
heart
410 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

When for the maid we struggled with ire soul-wasting
filled.

Would that, among the vessels, her Dian’s shaft had killed

That day when I Lyrnessos took and its ruins trod; 60

Then not so many Achaians had bit the boundless sod

’Neath hands of hostile warriors, as when I angered so.

For Hektor and the Trojans ’t were better far, I trow;

And long will the Achaians our wrath in memory hold.

Yet let us leave these bygones, though many griefs we
told, 65

With mind within our bosoms quelled by necessity.

Thus, now I cease my anger; ’t is not beseeming me

To rage in wrath forever. But let us rather far

Urge the long-haired Achaians onward to tearful war,

So I to make a trial against the Trojans go, 70

If they beside the vessels will watch all night; I trow

That he will bend full freely his knees, whoe’er may fly

Away from hostile warring ’neath my spear approaching
nigh.”

Thus he; and the Achaians, well-greaved, rejoiced anon

When thus renounced his anger Peleus’ great-minded
son. 75

But king of men, Atrides, among them said withal:

[Rising from his own station, not in he midst of all]:

“ O Friends, ye Danaan heroes, servants of Ares’ sway,

’T is well to hear me standing; nor seems it any way

To interrupt, confusing e’en one haranguing clear, 80

And in a mighty tumult of men how can one hear

Or speak? He will be hindered, though speaker good
he be.

Now I'll address Pelides; but let the rest hear me—

Each one among you, Argives, and well my meaning hold.

For often the Achaians to me this tale have told, 85

And have reproached me for it. I did not cause the woe

Yet Zeus and Fate and Furies who in the darkness go,

Who cast upon my spirit in council frenzy sore

That day when from Achilles the gift bestowed I bore.

Yet what could I accomplish? Agod perfected all: 90

Ate, ae reverenced daughter, through whom all errors
all
BOOK XIX 4ll

(Pernicious, with feet tender); nor does she aye draw near

Earth, yet on heads of heroes walks forth in her career.

[She injures men, and fetters another* manifest].

And once e’en Zeus she injured, whom they say is far the

best 95

Of men or gods immortal. But even him with guile

Hera, who is a female, deceived with fraudful wile

That day when high Alkmena the Heraclean might

Bote in the Theban city, with beauteous ramparts dight.

For he to all the godheads said in a boasting mood: 100
“ Hear me now, every goddess as well as every god,

While I tell what my spirit in my bosom bids me say.

Birth-ruling Ilithyia brings into light to-day

A kero, whom all people around him shall obey,—

Of those men’s generation who from my blocd were

bred.” 105

Then to him reverenced Hera, guile-meditating, said:

“ You will deceive , nor fitting end to this story bear.

But come now, O Olympian, to me a firm oath swear

That he shall rule all people who round him have their

seat.
(Who on this day shall fall down between a woman’s
feet, IIo

From those men’s generation of your own race and blood).”
Thus spoke she; but Kronion saw not her guileful mood,

Yet swore the oath transcendent, and suffered great de-
spite.

But i. rushing forward, left the Olympian hight,

And to Achaian Argos came soon where (’t was well
known) 115

Abode the noble consort of Sthenelos, Perseus’ son.

She of loved son was pregnant (the seventh month was

dight)
And, though of months deficient, the child was brought
to light.
She stopped Alkmena’s labour, the pangs of birth re-
pressed
And, everything announcing, Zeus, Kronides ad-
dressed: 120

* Achilles.
412 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“ Zeus Father, brightly thundering, I call this to your
mind:
A noble chief is brought forth to rule the Argive kind,
Eurystheus, the offspring of Sthenelos, Perseus’ son,
Your race; and not unfitting to hold the Argive throne. ’
Thus she; but piercing anguish deep in his spirit
bare. 125
At once he seized on Até by her head of radiant hair
(Enraged within his spirit, and a great oath he swore)
That in the starry heaven and Olympus nevermore
Again should Até wander, who brought a curse on all.
Thus saying, from starry heaven he cast her to her
fall, 130
Whirling in hand about him; and soon the works of men
She reached. And from her ever he groaned when in his
ken
His son bore toil unseemly which him Eurystheus gave.
Thus I, when mighty Hektor, glancing in helmet brave,
Destroyed the Argive heroes beside the ship’s sterns
free, 135
Could not forget dire Até who first had injured me.
But since I have been injured, and Zeus deprived of sense,
I wish to sate your anger and give you gifts immense;
But rouse yourself for warring, and rouse the other folk;
And I will give those presents all which to you bespoke 140
Divine Odysseus, coming to your quarters yesterday.
Yet, if you wish, remain here, though keen for Ares’ fray,
And, taking from my vessel, my men shall to you bear
These presents, so you see that I give you presents fair.”
To him foot-swift Achilles replied in answerthen: 145
““ Most glorious Atrides, Agamemnon, king of men,
If now you wish t’ endow me with presents, as is right,
Or keep, you must determine. Now, let us think of fight
At once; this is no season to prate of what we shun,
Nor yet for vain delaying with our great work undone. 150
But as you see Achilles, amid the first degrees,
With brazen spear destroying the Trojan phalanxes,
Thus let each one among you, remembering, fight a man.”
To him Odysseus wily, in answer, thus began:
“ Not thus, Achilles godlike, although of valiant mood,155

,
BOOK XIx 413

Urge on to Troy the sons of th’ Achaians, wanting food,

‘To battle with the Trojans. Since no short time will be

The combat when once mingle the orders furiously;

And a god will breathe on either and give them strength
replete.

Yet by the rapid vessels bid the Achaians eat 160

Of food and wine; since from them are strength and
vigour won.

For no man all the day-time until the setting sun,

Deprived of food, is able to fight against the foe.

E’en if in soul he wishes to war in battle’s glow,

Yet secretly his members are labouring; and seize 165

Upon him thirst and hunger, and fail his moving knees.

But when there is a hero filled well with wine and food,

He fights with hostile warriors all day with courage rude;

His heart within his bosom is fierce; nor any way

His members tire beneath him ere all have left the fray. 170

Yet come, dismiss the people; let some a feast prepare;

But let great Agamemnon, the king of men, now bear

His presents to the council, that all th’ Achaian kind

With their own eyes behold them, and that you joy in

mind.
Then, standing ’mid the Argives, let him an oath pre-
fer, 175

That he has n’er ascended her bed nor mixed with her;

[As is the custom, monarch, of women and of men]:

And be your spirit tranquil within your bosom then.

But next within his quarters conciliate with rich feast,

Since every ground of quarrel between you two has
ceased. 180

Atrides, for the future, you will far juster be

To any other hero; for ’t is with dignity

A king makes reparation to one he erst oppressed.”

In turn, him Agamemnon, the king of men, addressed

“T’m glad, son of Laertes, to hear your speech un-
rolled; 184

For you all things most justly go over and unfold.

I wish this oath to render; my mind bids me obey,

I will not swear it falsely. But let Achilles stay

Here with us in the meantime, though fain for Ares’ fiay;
414 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Let all the rest assembled remain till they bringhere — 190

The presents from my quarters, and we swear oaths sin-
cere.

As for yourself, Odysseus, I order and command:

Select the noblest young men of all th’ Achaian band

To bear out of my vessels the gifts, which yesterday

I pledged divine Achilles, and to lead the women away. 195

Let Talthybios soon make ready, ’mid th’ Achaians’ wide
array,

A boar to be an offering to Zeus and Helios.”

To him foot-swift Achilles, in turn, responded thus:

“ Most glorious Atrides Agamemnon, king of men,

Another time ’t were better for you to so ordain, 200

When after all the warring there may be pause and rest,

And not so great an ardour is burning in my breast.—

But now they lie there mangled, those chiefs who were
subdued

By Hektor, son of Priam, while Zeus gave glory good.

Then urge them to their banquet; but I would give com-
mand 205

For the sons of the Achaians to battle spear in hand,

Jejune and with no dinner; but with the setting sun

To make an ample supper after the victory won.

Yet neither food nor liquid shall down my throat be sped,

Before that is accomplished for my companion dead, 210

Who lies within my quarters by sharp brass weapons torn,

His feet turned to the portal, while round his comrades
mourn.

‘Yet nowise in my spirit I care such things to ken,

But care for blood and slaughter and the heavy groans of
men.”

Then him Odysseus wily in answer thus addressed: 215

“ Achilles, son of Peleus, by far th’ Achaians’ best,

In truth, you far surpass me, are much better with the
spear;

While I in wholesome prudence by far surpass you here,

Since I was born before you and know more than you
know.

For these things, let your spirit assent to what I show. 220

Full soon for men in battle satiety is found;
BOOK XIX AIS

Of them a plenteous harvest the brass pours on the ground.

‘There is but little harvest when Zeus inclines his scales,

Who, ’mid men’s generations, the lord of war prevails.

It seems not the Achaians with maw to mourn the
dead, 225

For very many and often and every day they’re sped;

Then when would there be respite from pain and labour
nigh?

Yet there is need to bury him whoso’er may die,

And keep the mind unyielding and mourn him for a day.—

But those in hated warring who ’scape from the af-
fray, 230

Must think of food and drinking that so we better far

May fight with hostile warriors in an eternal war,

Wrapping around the body brass arms inviolate;

So let none of the people for other urging wait.

For ill will be that urging for him, whoe’er may rest 235

Among the Argive vessels. Yet, all together pressed,

Let us waken acrid battle ’gainst horse-taming Trojan

foes.”
Thus he, and glorious Nestor’s great-minded children
chose,
Phylides and Meriones, Meges and Thoas true,
Lykomedes, son of Kreon, and Melanippos, too; 240

And all went to the tent of Agamemnon, Atreus’ son.
And, when the word was spoken, at once the work was

done:

Seven tripods which he promised they bore from out his
tent,

And twenty golden goblets, and twelve steeds with them
went;

Then soon they led seven women who faultless labour
knew; 245

The eighth one was Briseis, with cheeks most fair to view.

Odysseus placed for weighing ten golden talents’ store,

And led, while the other presents the youths Achaian bore;

They placed them ’mid the council. Then Agamemnon
stood,

And Talthybios, the herald, with accents likea god, 250

Held a boar in hand and stood by the pastor of the folk.
416 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The knife for sacrificing in hand Atrides took

(Which by his sword’s great scabbard ever suspended
hung),

And shore the hairs for firstlings. His hands to Zeus he
flun

And prayed; but all th’ Achaians in silence sat around 255

And listened to the monarch, as in beseeming bound.

Then, viewing the wide heaven, the king his prayer ad-
dressed:

“* Let Zeus, be my first witness, the highest god and best,
And Earth and Sun and Furies, who ’neath the earth all-

fair
Deal punishment to mortals, whoe’er may falsely
swear, 260
Upon the maid Briseis my hand I never laid,
Nor did I seek her loving, nor other wish betrayed.
If I in this swear falsely, may the gods give me much pain,
Such as they give the mortal who swears by them in vain.”
Thus spoke he, and the boar’s throat severed with cruel
brass; 265
Into the gray sea’s vortex Talthybios flung the mass,
(Revolving, food for fishes). Then rose Achilles dread
Among the warlike Argives and to the concourse said:

“ Zeus Sire, with mighty evils men are by you oppressed!
For never had Atrides the heart within my breast 270
Roused to so dire an anger, nor led the maid amain
While I was all unwilling, had not great Zeus been fain
That to full many Achaians the end of death should fare.—
Now let us go to banquet that we may meet the war.”

Thus spoke he, and the council dismissed full speed-

ily; 275
And each one went diversely to his ship beside the sea.
The Myrmidons great-minded the presents had in care,
And quickly to the ship of divine Achilles bare.
They placed them in his quarters, seats for the maids pre-

ferred;
And the high-born attendants drove the horses to the
herd. 280

But when Briseis, sembling gold Aphrodité fair,
Beheld Patroklos mangled by sharp brass weapons there,
BOOK xIx 417

She cast herself upon him and wailed aloud and tore
Her tender neck and bosom and visage, fair before.
The woman, like a goddess, said in her weeping blind: 285
“ Patroklos, who was dearest to my most wretched
mind,
I left you well and living when I the tent forsook,
But now I find you lifeless, O leader of the folk,
When I return; thus ever evils around me rave.
The man my honoured mother and father to me gave, 290
I saw before our city by sharp brass weapons torn;
And I had then three brothers all by one mother borne,
Near and beloved; all perished that day which ruin
filled. —
But you did not allow me, when fleet Achilles killed
My husband and the city of godlike Mynes spoiled, 295
To weep, yet to me promised the wedded wife to make
Of noble-born Achilles and on the ships to take
To Phthia, and the marriage ’mid the Myrmidons design-
ed.
Thus, dead will I lament you who were forever kind.”
Thus she, and wept; the women around her groaned
amain, 300
With Patroklos for a pretext, but each for her own pain.
The old men of th’ Achaians around Achilles hied
And pressed to take refreshments, but he with groans
denied:
“ If any of my comrades will now obey my mood,
I beg that he will order for me no drink nor food 305
To satiate my spirit, since dire griefs o’er me fall.
Yet I will wait till sunset, and bear the pain through all.’’
Thus saying, the other monarchs he gave dismissal due.
Divine Odysseus stayed there, and the Atridae two,
Idomeneus and Nestor and horseman Phoinix old, 310
Trying to soothe him ever; but to his mind was told
No joy till he should enter the mouth of bloody war.
He spoke, but with remembrance full frequent sighs he
bare:
“ Most surely once, unhappy, O friend I loved the best,
You would within my quarters have spread a bounteous
feast, 315
418 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

With speed and in due order when th’ Achaians were to go
To bear all-tearful Ares ’gainst the horse-borne Trojan
foe.
But now you lie here mangled; yet let my heart remain
Bereft of food and drinking, I feel for you such pain,
Though food is near. Worse evil I could by no means
have, 320
Not if 1 learned my father were lying in his grave,
Who now, perchance, in Phthia lets fall the tender tear
For want of such an offspring, who ’mid strange people here
Bears war for hated Helen against the Trojans dread;
Or him, my son well-cherished, in island Skyros bred. 325
{If godlike Neoptolemos is yet of life possessed.]
For erst a hope was glowing in the mind within my breast,
That I alone should perish far from Argos feeding horse,
Here in the fields of Troja, but you would take your course
To Phthia, that from Skyros you might lead back my
son 330
Upon the sable vessel, and show him every one
Of my possessions,—maidens and great high-arching hall.
Yet now I fear that Peleus is dead beyond recall;
Or, if he lives on feebly, is wracked by grief and pain,
And by old age, sore hated, aye waiting, though in
vain,
For grievous.message from me, to learn that I am dead.”
Thus spoke he weeping, th’ elders with him made groan-
ing dread,
Each one the things recalling which he had left at home.—
Kronion, seeing them, pitied, as they bewailed their doom,
And he at once Athena with wingéd words addressed: 340
“ My child, you leave entirely this hero manifest.
No longer in your spirit you guard Achilles now,
Who just before the vessels, with lot stern and prow,
Laments his dear companion; but all the others now
Desert him for the banquet; he’s worn and does not
eat. 345
But come, and pleasant nectar and eke ambrosia sweet
Instill within his bosom, lest he feel hunger sore. ”
Thus saying, he, incited Pallas who wished before;
And she, like wide-winged harpy with voice of piercing
tone,
BOOK XIX 419

Leapt down from heaven, through ether.—But the Ach-
alans anon 350
Were armed through all the army. She in Achilles’ breast
Ambrosia sweet and nectar instilled at Jove’s request,
That never gnawing hunger upon his knees should come,
Then went to her great father’s resplendent solid dome.
But far from the swift vessels the Danaan army

drove.— 355
As when the frequent snow-flakes fly forth from mighty
Jove,

Sent by the chilly impulse of Boreas ether-born;
Thus, then, the thickset helmets, resplendent in the morn,
Were borne forth from the vessels, and many a bossy

shield,
And strongly-concaved corselets and ashen spears
afield. 360
The radiance reached to heaven, and laughed the earth
around

Beneath the brazen splendour; and rose an echoing sound

Beneath men’s feet; Achilles divine was ’mid them dight.

{His teeth gave forth a gnashing, and both his eyes shone
bright,

As if with fire’s ferce sparkling; insufferable scath = 365

Entered his heart within him; he, with the Trojans wrath,

Put on the godhead’s presents which Vulcan, labouring,
made.]

He first the greaves all-beauteous around his legs arrayed,

Well-joined with silver buckles, with many a splendour
dressed;

And, after that, the corselet was placed upon his
breast. 370

His silver-studded falchion he o’er his shoulders cast,

Brazen, but next he seized on the buckler strong and vast;

And far from it a radiance, as if the moon’s, was cast.

As when upon the ocean some sailors may espy

A burning fire, enkindled upon a mountain high, 375

In lonely spot, while tempest them all unwilling sends,

Upon the fish-rich ocean away from their dear friends;

Thus from Achilles’ buckler, all-dedal wrought and fair,

The flame came to the ether. Upon his head he bare
429 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

The heavy helm uplifted; and, like a star, blazed
there 380
The horsehair-crested helmet; and shook the hairs of
gold,
Which round the helmet’s summit Vulcan had densely
rolled.
Himself divine Achilles then in the armour tried,
To see if it would fit him, space for his limbs provide.
It seemed like wings and raised up the pastor of the
folk. 385
He, from the case containing, his spear paternal took
(Heavy and great and valid): no other Achaian afield
Could shake it, and Achilles alone had strength to wield;—
A Pelian ash, which Chiron cut for his father dear.
From Pelion’s highest summit—for hoeres’ slaughter
drear. = go
Automedon and Alkimos harnessed and yoked in haste
The steeds; the beauteous yoke-straps they fixed and
bridles placed
Into their mouths, and drew back on the well-jointed car
The reins. Upon the chariot Automedon leapt there,
Seizing the scourge which fitted his hand. Achilles
bare
Behind him armed, and shining in armour like bright sun,
And direly to the coursers of his father then begun:
“ Xanthos and Balios, offspring of Podargé far-re-
nowned,
Devise some other method to bear your master sound
Back to the Danaan concourse when we ate sate with
war, 400
Nor, as you left Patroklos, desert him dying there.”
But him his foot-bright courser, Xanthos, addressed
again
From ‘neath the yoke, while hanging his head; and all
his mane
Hung from the yoke-near circle till it attained the ground.
The goddess, white-armed Hera, gave to him voice pro-
found: 405
“ Impetuous Achilles, to-day we safely bear.
Yet nears the day of ruin; nor we the blame will share,
BOOK Xx 421

Wrought by a powerful godhead and by a violent fate.
For neither by our slowness nor by our sloth ingrate
The Trojans from the shoulders of Patroklos th’ armour

tore; 410
Yet the bravest of the godheads, whom well-haired Leto
bore,

Slew him among the foremost and Hektor glory gave.
But, though we with the breathing of rapid Zephyr drave
(Who they say is far the fleetest), yet Fate has fixed her
ban:
That you perforce must perish by a god and by a
man.” 415
Thus having said, the Furies the voice in him re-
pressed.
But him foot-swift Achilles indignantly addressed:
“ Xanthos, why my destruction do you thus prophecy ?
You need not, and I know well my fate is here to die,
Far from dear sire and mother; but, be death far or
nigh, 420
I cease not ere the Trojans’ desire of war is quelled.”
Thus, shouting, ’mid the foremost his whole-hoofed
steeds he held.

BOOK XxX.

THE BATTLE OF THE GODS.

Thus by the curve-bowed vessels th’ Achaians armed
afar
Around you, son of Peleus, insatiable of war;
On the other hand, the Trojans, on the swelling of the
plain.

But Zeus commanded Themis to call the gods amain
To council from the summit of Olympus manifold; 0g
And everywhere she wandered, commanding them to hold
To Zeus’s halls. No river, excepting Ocean’s swell,
Nor any nymph was absent, who in the fair groves dwell
And in the rivers’ fountains and meads with grass inwove.
422 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

When they came to the mansions of cloud-compelling
Jove, 10

On polished shining benches they sat, which for Zeus Sire

Vulcan had erstwhile fashioned with skill and knowledge
dire.

Thus, now they were assembled within great Zeus’s
dome;—

E’en Neptune had obeyed him and from the ocean come.

He sat there in the middle and asked Jove’s will
withal: 15

“ Why now, White-Lightning-Sender, do you to coun-

cil call?

Is it that the Achaians and Trojans give concern?

For now their war and battle will soon with fury burn.”

Him then Zeus cloud-compelling in answer thus ad-

dressed:

“ You know full well, Earth-Shaker, the counsel in my
breast 20

For which I called you hither; I heed them, though they
die.

Yet I will stay here, sitting upon Olympus high,

And, looking thence, will gladden my spirit, but the rest

May go among the Trojans and Achaians manifest,

And to each side give succour as does his mind incite. 25

For if Achilles only against the Trojans fight,

They will not hold, though little, against him in the fray.

Since, when they saw him only, erewhile they fled away;

But now, when for his comrade he rages dire in mind,

I fear he raze the rampart, though Fate has not de-

signed. ” 30
Thus spoke great Zeus Kronion, and ceaseless war
assigned.

The gods went to the battle, having diverse intent.

But to the ships’ assembly Hera and Pallas went;

With them earth shaking Neptune and Hermes bountiful,
Who passes all the others in prudence of the soul; 35
Hephaistos went beside them, dire in his vigour’s glow,
But limping, and was swaying on his weak legs to and fro.
But helmet-glancing Ares was to the Trojans borne,
And Artemis shaft-joying and Phoebus, all unshorn;
BOOK XX 423

Laughter-loving Aphrodité, Leto and Xanthes, then. 40
While yet the gods were standing apart from mortal
men,
So long th’ Achaians gloried, for Achilles was in sight,
And long had he been absent from sorrow-causing fight.
But dire tremor seized the members of the Trojans,

everyone,
Who feared much when they gazed on Peleus’ swift
footed son, 45

Resplendent in his armour, peer of Mars homicide.

But when among the concourse of men th Olympians hied,

Fierce Eris, folk-inciting, arose, Athena cried,

Standing beside the fossa sunken outside the wall,

Or from the shore resounding called out, with mighty
call. 50

On the other hand, Mars shouted like whirlwind bearing
night,

And shrilly urged the Trojans from the city’s topmost
hight

Then by Kallikoloné along the Simois run.

Thus either warring army the happy gods urged on

And met in strife; among them broke forth deep discord
then, 55

And thundered, bearing terror, the Sire of gods and men

Aloft; and strong Posidon shook the enormous earth

Below them and the summits high, born of mountain
birth.

And all the roots and summits of fount-rich Ida swayed,

And the city of the Trojans, and th’ Achaians’ ships
arrayed. 60

A terror seized on Hades, king of the shadows dim,

Who from his throne leapt fearing, and shouted, lest
o’er him

Shaker of Earth, Posidon, should rive the solid earth,

And thus to the immortals and mortals should shine

forth /
The dire and squalid mansions which e’en the gods
abhor.— 65

Such was the clamour rising when the godheads met in
AEE
424 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

For there ’gainst King Posidon Phoebus Apollo stood,
Bearing his feathered arrows and bow, tense-drawn and

good;
Fierce-eyed Athena, goddess, ’gainst Enyalios stood;
The sister of Apollo, Diana, shaft-renowned, 70
Huntress with golden arrows, ’gainst Hera great was
found;

And potent helper, Hermes, to Leto was opposed;
The great deep-eddying River against Hephaistos closed,
Named Xanthos by the godheads, Skamander called by

men.
Thus godheads stood ’gainst godheads. But most
Achilles then, 75

For battle with great Hektor desired to pierce the host,

Priamides; his spirit commanded him the most

With blood to satiate Ares, warrior with bull’s-hide shield.

Apollo, folk-inciter, urged straight across the field

Eneas on Pelides, and gave him vigour choice, 80

Resembling Priam’s offspring, Lykaon, in his voice;

Resembling him completely, Zeus’ son, Apollo, said:

“ 7Eneas, Trojan counsellor, where are the threaten-

ings dread,

Which to the Trojan leaders, while drinking wine you
plight:

That you against Achilles, old Peleus’ son, would
fight ?” 85

To him in turn neas these words in answer brought:

“ Priamides, why order myself, who wish it not,

To fight against Pelides of high and haughty hand ?

For now foot-swift Achilles I shall not first withstand,

Since once before, already, he drove me with the
spear go

From Ida, when our oxen he charged in wild career,

And wasted high Lyrnessos and Pedasos with ease.

Yet Zeus saved me by giving vigour and rapid knees,

Or, truly, I were mastered by his and Pallas’ hands,

Who placed before him victory, and gave him her com-
mands 95

The Leleges and Trojans with brazen spear to mar.

Thus not against Achilles may mortal hero war,
BOOK XxX 425

For a god stands by him ever to turn the death away.
And, otherwise, his weapon flies straight and does not stay
Before a human body it pierces. Yet if me 100
A god gave equal limit of war, not easily
Would he subdue, though boasting that he is all of brass.”
To him in turn responded Apollo, son of Zeus:
“ Yet come, illustrious hero, pray to the gods eterne,
For they say from Zeus’s daughter, Aphrodité, you were
born 105
And he is from a goddess of an inferior strain;
For one is from Kronion, one from th’ ancient of the main.
Yet bear your brass unconquered straight on, and never
turn
Away from savage speeches, but angry threatening spurn.”
Thus saying, the people’s pastor with great strength

he informed, 110
Who went on through the foremost in brass resplendent
armed.

But goddess white-armed Hera beheld Anchises’ son,
When he against Pelides through the press of heroes run.
She called the gods together and spoke in accents due:

“ Posidon and Athena, consider well, you two, 115
Within your prudent spirits how all these things will be.
For, armed with brass resplendent, Aéneas rapidly
Advances on Pelides; Phoebus drives on amain.

But come, let us endeavour to turn him back again.
Or let one of our number stand by Achilles’ side 120
And give him mighty vigour that naught his mind divide;
That he may know the strongest of the immortals love,
And that the others vainly aid those who ere this strove
To ward off from the Trojans warring and slaughter’s
blight.
All of us from Olympus, about to wage this fight, 125
Have come that from the Trojans to-day he suffer naught,
Though he may suffer later whate’er Fate may have
wrought
Into his thread that morning when first his mother bore.
But if Achilles learns not from a god’s voice this lore,
He’ll be afraid when ’gainst him some god approaches
neat 130
426 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

In war; for dire the godheads, when they are seen,
appear.”

To her earth-shaking Neptune made then the answer

due:
“ Hera, rage not in frenzy; it is not meet for you.
I do not wish the godheads to meet in clash of war;
{We and the other godheads, for we are better far]; 135
But let us sit down rather, going to a place of ken
Apart from the assembly, and leave the war to men.
But if Apollo Phoebus or Mars begin with might,
Or hinder great Achilles nor suffer him to fight,
There, then, at once the contest of war will to us flow. 140
I think that the contestants will very quickly go
Again back to Olympus to the gods’ assembled bands,
By necessity o’ermastered with violence ’neath our
hands. ”

Thus having spoken, Neptune, with hair like azure seas,
Led to the earth-heaped rampart of godlike Herkules, 145
Which once Athena Pallas and the Trojan people made,
That he the ocean monster might fly from and evade,
When it might rush upon him from the seashore to the

lain.
There a Posidon seated and the godheads in his train.
But round about their shoulders unbreaking cloud was
dressed; 150
Th’ opposing gods were seated on Kallikoloné’s crest,
Around you, Archer Phoebus, and city-wasting Mars.
Thus they sat ’gainst each other and meditated wars.
Yet they were slow beginning war with destructive blight,
But Zeus, who sat in ether, commanded them to fight. 155
But they* filled all the prairie, which glittered with the
brass
Of heroes and of horses; and ‘neath their feet earth’s mass
Crashed when they rushed together. Two chiefs, the
best by far.
Came in the midst together, all eager to make war,
Anchises’ son, Aineas, and eke Achilles divine. 160
/€neas first came forward and uttered threats malign,
Nodding his valid helmet; his rushing buckler sheer
He held before his bosom and shook his brazen spear.
*The human combatants.
BOOK XX 427

On the other hana, Pelides rushed on, like lion dire,

Whom men attempt to slaughter, urged on by hot
desire 165

(Assembled, all the village); he first, contemning, goes,

But when some youth Mars-rapid at him with javelin
throws,

He yawns, collecting vigour, and foam is manifest

Around his teeth; his spirit high groans within his breast;

And with his tail he scourges his ribs and both his
thighs, 170

And thus himself arouses to fight his enemies;

Then with terrific aspect bears straight, with strength
endowed,

That he a man may slaughter or die amid the crowd;

Thus strength and manly spirit urged great Achilles on

To go against Aineas great-souled, Anchises’ son. 175

But when they came together, upon each other pressed,

The first, divine swift-footed Achilles him addressed:

“ 7Eneas, why thus pass through so great a crowd and

stand?

Is it, then, that your spirit does war with me command,

Because you hope to rule the horse-taming Trojan
band 180

With the royalty of Priam? But if myself you slew,

For such a deed King Priam would not give the gift to you;

For he has sons, is prudent and not of changing breast.—

Or have the Trojans measured a field above the rest,

Fair for the vine and harvest, for you to till and guard, 185

If you, perchance, may slay me? I hope it will be hard

Todo. I think already I chased you with my spear.—

Sooth, do you not remember when from your oxen near

I drove you lorn from Ida’s mountains tumultuously,

With rapid feet; but, flying, you turned not back
to me. 190

You fled thence to Lyrnessos; I sacked the town dismayed,

Rushing on with Athena’s and Father Zeus’s aid;

I led the women captive and freedom from them tore;

But you the other godheads and Zeus preserved once more.

Yet now you will not ’scape me, I trow, as in your
mind 195
428 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

You think; but I exhort you to turn back, so you find
Your comrades, nor against me to stand, but rather shun,
Before you suffer evil; the fool knows what is done. ”
To him at once Aineas spoke and returned reply:
“ Pelides, hope not speeches myself will terrify, 200
As if I were a stripling; since I myself know well,
Sharp words and grave reproaches against you to impel.
We know each other’s lineage and well our parents ken,
Hearing the tales related long since by mortal men;
You saw not mine with vision, I saw not yours again. 205
They say that you the offspring of blameless Peleus are,
And of your mother Thetis, sea-nymph with ringlets fair.
Yet from great-souled Anchises I boast that I was born;
My mother is Aphrodité, whom countless charms adorn.
Of these, one or the other shall make lament this day 210
For their dear son; I think not with boyish words in fray
Shall we be separated and turn from battle fell.
Yet, if you wish to hear me, that you may know full well
My birth and generation which many men can tell:
Now first, Zeus cloud-compelling begot great Darda-
nos; 215
And he Dardania founded, since sacred Ilios,
Town of men speech-dividing, was not yet built aplain;
Yet at the foot of Ida, rill-rich, they still dwelt fain.
But Dardanos the monarch Erichthonios begot,
Who, then, became the richest of men of mortal lot; 220
Whose mares, three thousand, pastured along the marsh
and moor,
And ran about, exulting with the tender colts they bore.—
But Boreas was enamoured of some while there they fed
And, like a blue-haired courser, conducted to his bed;
And they, becoming pregnant, twelve female foals brought
forth.— 225
But when these ran and sported upon the fruitful earth,
They ran on tips of corn-ears, nor broke them in their
mirth;
And when they ran and sported on the broad backs of the
sea,
They ran on crests of billows of gray ocean rolling free.—
Erichthonios engendered Tros for the Trojans’ king; 230
BOOK XxX 429

From Tros three blameless heroes derived their beings’
spring,

Assarakos and Ilos and Ganymed divine,

Who, sooth, was born the fairest of men of mortal line.

The gods took him to heaven to pour high Zeus’s wine;

For his surpassing beauty to share th’ immortals’ lot. 235

But Ilos, then, Laomedon, his blameless son, begot;

Laomedon engendered Tithonos, Priamos,

The scion of Mars, Hiketaon, Lampos and Klytios.

Assarakos engendered great Kapys, who in line

Begot my sire, Anchises; but Priam, Hektor divine 240

Begot. Such is my lineage, such blood do I possess.

But Zeus augments the virtue of men and makes it less,

Whenever it may please him, for he is best of all.

Yet come, let us no longer discuss, like boys in brawl,

Standing hard by the middle of the battle hither rolled. 245

For very many reproaches might be by either told;

So a ship with hundred benches might not endure the

_ weight.

The tongue of man is facile; his words in a debate

Are many and varied; widely his words spread here and
there.

And as the word you utter so will you answer bear. 250

Yet where’s the need, with discord and quarrels, for us two

To strive against each other as angry women do,

Who, angered in their quarrel of soul-consuming sway,

Contend with one another in the middle of the way

With true or trumped-up charges; both with like fury

fired. 255
With words you will not turn me, who am by might
inspired,

Before with brass you fight me; but come, and let us here
Make trial of each other at once with brass-shod spear.”
Thus he, and ’gainst the buckler, dire and tremendous,

flung
His valid spear; the buckler huge to the spear’s point
run 260

In his stout hand Pelides the shield far from him held,
Fearing, since he believed that the long spear well impelled
By mighty-souled Eneas, would easily pass through.
430 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Foolish!—who in his spirit and mind in nowise knew

That the gods’ illustrious presents, without the sorest
pain, 265

Yield not to nor are mastered by the hands of mortal men.

Thus, then, the heavy javelin of Aineas, battle-brave,

Broke not the shield; but held it the gold the godhead

ave.

Two folds it penetrated; three folds opposed it yet,

Since Vulcan with his labour five folds in allhad set. 270

Two of the plates were brazen; within, two tin plates
sheer

The middle one was golden; this held the ashen spear.

The second, then, Achilles his spear long-shadowed sent,

Which ’gainst the equal buckler of great A'neas went

Hard by the rim extremest where run the brass most
thin, 275

And thinnest was the ox-hide; and there, clear through
rushed in

The Pelian ash; the buckler beneath the strong blow
pealed;

Aineas crouched, evading, and from him held the shield

In terror; and the javelin in earth behind him stood,

Desiring to go onward; yet brast both circles good —-280

Of the man-covering buckler; unharmed by the long spear

He stood, yet o’er his eyelids was poured much grief
austere,

And terror, since the weapon was fixed in earth so near.

But Achilles rushed on swiftly, drawing his trenchant

brand,

Shouting with cries terrific; Aéneas took in hand 285

A rifted rock, huge labour!—which not two men could
bear

(Such men as now are mortals); with ease he brandished
there.

Then, of a truth, A/neas had flung the rock on him,
Either on helm or buckler which fenced death sad and
rim.
But quickly had Pelides with sword deprived of life, 290
Had not Earth-Shaker Neptune known well amid the
strife.
BOOK Xx 431

Soon to the gods immortal he spoke words earnestly :

“ Ye gods, great-souled Aineas’ peril is pain to me,
Who soon, slain by Achilles, to Hades’ house will go,
Persuaded by the speeches of Phoebus, deft with

bow. 295
Foolish!—He will not succour him from this grievous bane.
Yet why should now the guiltless suffer this heavy pain,
Unearned, for others’ sorrows; his grateful gifts were

given

Ever to all the godheads who hold the spacious heaven?
But come, and let us lead him from ruin in the fray, 300
Lest Kronides be angered if great Achilles slay.

For Fate to him has given that he to-day may fly,

That not the race of Dardan, seedless and lost, shall die
(Whom Kronides most cherished of all the sons of morn,
Who were from him descended, of mortal women

born). 305
For Kronides the offspring of Priam hates to-day,

And now the Trojan people Aineas’ might will sway,
And sons to sons succeeding, who afterwards are bred.”

Then ox-eyed reverenced Hera to him in answer said:

“ Earth-Shaker, of Aineas consider in your mind: 310
Whether you save from danger or leave him here behind.
[By Achilles, son of Peleus, to be subdued, though brave.]
Yet we to all th’ immortals full many a dire oath gave

(I and Athena Pallas) ne’er th’ evil day to turn

From the Trojans, if all Troja in wasting flame should

burn, 315
And the brave sons of th’ Achaians had lit the sparkling

fire.”

But when Earth-Shaker Neptune had heard her accents

dire,

He hastened to the battle and the din of ashen wood,

And came where was AEneas, and famed Achilles stood.

At once a veil of darkness above the eyes he threw 320

Of Achilles, son of Peleus, from Afneas’ buckler drew

The well-brazed ashen javelin with dedal work replete.

Then cast the valid weapon before Achilles’ feet;

Next seized with force Aineas and raised him high from
earth.
432 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And many ranks of heroes and many steeds borne
forth 325

A£neas vaulted over, urged by the godhead’s hand,

And came to the last limits of the war’s impetuous band,

Where were arrayed the Kaukons behind the battle grim.

Then Neptune, the Earth-Shaker, came very near to him

And, after he bespoke him, with wingéd words ad-

dressed: 330
“ 7Eneas, who of godheads has bidden you, thus
distressed,

To fight against Pelides, of wild and haughty moods,
Who than yourself is mightier and dearer to the gods?
But now, retreat before him if you should meet again,
Lest you, though all unfated, Hades’ grim house
attain. 335

But when Achilles follows his destiny and blight,
Then with transcendent courage amid the foremost fight;
No other of th’ Achaians shall bring about your fall.”

Thus saying, he departed, when he had taught him all.
And quickly from the eyeballs of Achilles he repelled 340
The mist immense, who clearly then with his eyes beheld.
But to his soul great-hearted he, with deep groaning,

cries:

“ Ye gods, a mighty wonder I look on with these eyes!
My spear lies here before me on earth, nor any way
Do I behold the hero I charged and wished to slay. 345
That to the gods immortal /Eneas is dear is plain
Though I was of opinion he boasted thus in vain.
Then let him go; his spirit will not urge him again
To try me, since with transport, just now, from death he

fled.
Yet come, and rouse the Danaans who love the battle
dread. 350

Then all the other Trojans I’ll try, and ’gainst them run.”
Thus he, and leapt ’mid th’ orders, exhorting everyone:
“ No longer now, Achaians divine, should you stand far
From the Trojans; let each hero ’gainst hero promptly
war.
For me it were great hardship, though I am brave
withal, 355
BOOK XX 433

‘lo charge so many warriors and battle with them all.
Not Ares, god immortal, nor e’en Athena’s might
Could charge so great a combat and toil ’gainst such a
fight.
Yet such as I am able, in hands and feet and force,
I promise I will slacken in nowise, nor be worse, 360
But press on through the orders; nor anyone, I trow,
Of the Trojans will be gladdened, who near my spear
may go.”
Thus spoke he, while exhorting; but famous Hektor
drave
The Trojans on by saying he would meet Achilles brave.
“Ye haughty-minded Trojans, let not Pelides
fright. 365
F’en I with the immortals with words alone could fight;
But with the spear ’t were arduous, since they are better
far.
Nor will Achilles finish all that his words declare;
A part he will accomplish, the other half desire.
But I would go against him, though his hands resembled
fire, 370
Though his hands bright fire resembled; and his strength
like iron blazed.”
Thus spoke he, while exhorting; their spears the Tro-
jans raised.
Their strength was mixed together, and rose a clamour
dread.
Then, standing close to Hektor, Phoebus Apollo said:
“Hektor, war with Achilles amid the van no
more; 375
Receive him from th’ assembly and from the tumult sore,
Least he with missile hit you or with near sword attain.”
Thus he; and Hektor entered again the ranks of men
In fear, when he had listened to what the godhead hight.
But Achilles ’mid the Trojans leapt with spirit clad in
might, 380
Shouting with cries terrific. He slew Iphition then,
The brave son of Otrynteus, leader of many men.
To Otrynteus wasting-cities, Naiad, a nymph, gave birth
*Neath the shade of snowy Tmolos, in Hyda’s fertile earth.
434 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Divine Achilles struck him, coming straight on, with

spear 385
Upon the head’s mid portion; and that in twain split sheer.
He fell with crash resounding; divine Achilles then:

“ Lie there, son of Otrynteus, most terrible of men;
Here death has seized upon you; your race is from the lake
Gygean, where a temenos you from your fathers take
Beside the fish-rich Hyllos, where eddying Hermos flies.”

Thus spoke he in his boasting; but darkness veiled

his* eyes,

And the Achaian horses mangled his body prone,

With tires amid the foremost. But het Demoleon,

A strong defence in battle, Antenor’s valiant son, 395

Struck strongly on the temple, through the helmet cheeked
with brass.

The brass helm did not ward it; yet through the shining
mass

The eager javelin shattered the bone, and all the brain

Within it was polluted; it mastered him though fain.

Then in the back Hippodamas with spear he wounded
sore, 400

Who leapt down form his chariot and wildly fled before.

But he exhaled his spirit like bullock bellowing,

Which is dragged before the altar of the Heliconian
king,t

By stalwart youths who draw him; and Neptune with
them joys;

Thus his fierce soul deserted his bones amid his cries. 405

But he§ ’gainst Polydoros divine with bright spear bare,

Priamides, whose father forbade to go to war,

Since he of all his children was born to him the last,

And was most fondly cherished, and all with feet surpassed.

There he, in youthful folly, his gift of speed displayed, 410

And ran among the foremost till he his life betrayed.

Foot-swift divine Achilles struck him with javelin thrown,

As he was running by him, on the mid back where the zone

Was joined by-golden circles, and the double corselet met;

And straight through by the navel the javelin’s brass
point set. 415

*Iphition’s, | {Achilles. © tNeptune. § Achilles.
BOOK XX 435

Aknee he fell, lamenting, a dark cloud round him spanned,
And, bending down, he gathered his entrails with his hand.
When Hektor saw his brother Polydoros smit with

wound,
Holding in hand his entrails and rolled upon the ground,
A mist fell o’er his vision; he could endure no more 420

To wage a distant warfare, but ’gainst Achilles bore,
Like fire his sharp spear brandished. But when Achilles
knew,
At once he leapt up, boasting, and uttered threats anew:
“The man is near who stung me most sharply in my
soul,
Who slew my cherished comrade; not long shall we
patrol,
While trembling at each other, the battle’s bridges dread.”
Thus he, and gazing grimly on godlike Hektor, said:
“Come nearer that the sooner you reach the bounds of

death.”

To him helm-glancing Hektor replied with dauntless
breath:

“ Pelides, with your speeches hope not to terrify, 430

As if I were a stripling; yet I can vilify

As well with cutting accents and words opprobrious, too.

I know that you are valiant, that I’m weaker far than you;

Yet truly, all these matters lie at the godheads’ knees,

And, though I am the weaker, I shall slay you if they
please, 435

Striking with spear; my weapon is, also, sharp before.”

Thus he, and flung his javelin, but that Athena bore

With breath back from Achilles, illustrious in war,

Breathing upon it lightly; and bore the missile fleet

To its master, godlike Hektor, where it fell before his
feet. 440

But Achilles rushed on wildly, fierce with desire to slay,

Calling with shouts terrific; Apollo bore away,

Like god, with ease the chieftain and in dense darkness
veiled.

Foot-fleet divine Achilles three times his foe assailed

With brazen spear, but triply he struck the darkness
bread. 445
436 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet when he rushed the fourth time, the equal of a god,
He chid him with dire menace and wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“ Dog, now again destruction you’ve fled. Yet evil
pressed
Anear; Apollo Phoebus held o’er you guard once more,
Whom you are wont to pray to, going ’mid the javelins’
roar. 450
But if henceforth I meet you, I certainly will slay,
If any of the godheads assist me in the fray.
Yet now I charge the others, whoe’er I may o’ertake.”
Thus saying, he wounded Dryops with javelin on mid

neck,
Who fell down there before him; he left him there to
lie. 455

The famed son of Philetor, Demuchos great and high,
Close to the knee he wounded and held him in the fray;
Then struck him with great falchion and took his life away.
Next ’gainst the sons of Bias with fury he rushed forth,
(Laogonos and Dardan), and flung from cartoearth; 460
Piercing one with his javelin, striking one with his sword.
Then Tros, son of Alastor, who at his knees implored,
That so he might persuade him to take him living there
And not to kill, but pity the equal age they bare;
Foolish!—because he knew not he could not thus en-
snare. 65
For Achilles was not gentle nor easy to appease,
But rash and harsh in temper; he seized with hands his
knees,
Wishing to supplicate him; he* wounded with his sword,
And cut from him the liver; and the black life-blood

poured
Apace and filled his bosom; and night his vision
veiled, 470

Who was by life deserted. Next Mulios he assailed

And smote his ear with javelin; and through the other ear

Drove on the brazen spear-point. He struck Echeklos
near,

Agenor’s son, with falchion great-hilted, on mid head;

* Achilles.
BOOK XX 437

The sword with blood waxed tepid; and purple Death
all-dread 475

And violent Fate above him seized swiftly on his eyes.

Deukalion came after; where in the elbow’s plies

The sinews join, he pierced him through hand with brazen

spear;

And he, with hand sore weighted, stayed for him coming
near,

And looked on death before him; he struck the neck
with sword, 480

And flung the head with helmet afar, while marrow
poured

Forth from the opened back-bone; on earth outspread
he lay.

Achilles hastened forward Pireus’ famed son to slay,
Rigmos, who came from Thrakia, whose fertile fields are

sung;
He struck the midst with javelin; the brass fixed in the
lung; 485

He fell out of the chariot. The foe with trenchant spear
Struck in the back Areithoos, the wheeling charioteer,
And flung him from the chariot; the steeds plunged
. furiously.
And as through the deep valleys of some great moun-
tain dry
A boundless fire sweeps onward, and the thick forest
burns, 490
And everywhere the whirlwind the conflagration turns;
Thus everywhere Achilles with spear rushed, like a god,
Following those doomed to slaughter; and black earth
flowed with blood.
Aswhenone yokes up oxen, whose foreheads widely spread,
To trample out white barley on the threshing-floor well-

made; 495
And with ease it is diminished ’neath the bellowing oxen’s
feet;

Thus, ’neath great-souled Achilles his whole-hoofed
coursers fleet

Trampled on shields and corpses; the axle-tree below

Was all by blood polluted, and the high rims which go
438 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Around the car were spattered by drops flung from the

tire ‘00
And from the hoofs of horses; but Pelides burned
t’ acquire

High fame; his hands unconquered were fouled by
slaughter dire.

BOOK XXI.

THE BATTLE BY THE RIVER.

But when they reached the passage of the fairly flowing

river,

The eddying Xanthos, gotten by Zeus who lives forever,

He cleft the rout asunder and chased some on the plain

To the city where th’ Achaians, amazed, had fled amain

The day before when Hektor, illustrious, raging sped; 5

There they in flight poured onward. Before them Hera
spread

A dense deep cloud to hinder, but the other half were
whirled

To the deep-flowing river whose silvery eddies curled.

They came with mighty clamour, and roared the streams
profound,

The banks about re-echoed, and with tumultuous sound 10

They swam about confusedly, tost by the eddies dire.

As when the locusts mount up, urged by the rush of fire,

To fly toward a river, and keen flame burns o’er all,

Rushing upon them swiftly, and ’neath the flood they fall

In fear; thus by Achilles the loudly sounding course 15

Of deeply eddying Xanthos was filled with men and horse.

But the Zeus-born his javelin left there beside the flood,

Leaning against a tamarisk, and leapt in, like a god,

Having his falchion only, devising ills for foes.

He struck in all directions, and dreadful groaning rose 20

From those smit by his falchion; the wave with blood
was red,

And as before huge dolphin the other fish dismayed
BOOK XxI 439

Fly and fill up the crannies of a harbour sheltered well,

For greedily he feeds on whoever he may quell;

Thus the Trojans hid and trembled in the caverns of the
flood 25

Of the terrific river. When his hands were tired of blood,

He chose twelve youths yet living, from the river’s cur-
rents won,

As weregild for Patroklos, Menoitios’ dead son.

He led them from the river, like fawns amazed, forlorn,

And bound their hands behind them with strappings
deftly shorn 30

(Which on their twisted tunics they bore to use at need),

And gave them to his comrades to the hollow ships to lead.

But he again rushed onward, desiring yet to slay.

A son of Dardan Priam he next met on his way,
Flying from the stream, Lykaon, whom he himself be-

fore

Had taken, though unwilling, and from his sire’s field
bore

(Going there in the night-time) while he* cut off the
limbs,

With sharp brass, from a fig-tree to make a chariot’s rims.

On him unthought-of evil divine Achilles rolled,

Then to well-peopled Lemnos a thrallin slavery sold, 40

Leading him on the vessels; the son of Jason paid

The price. His guest thence loosed him and many gifts
conveyed,

Great Imbrian Eetion, and to Arisba sent;

Whence he escaped in secret and to his sire’s dome went.

Eleven days his spirit he gladdened with each friend, 45

When he returned from Lemnos; but ere the twelfth
day’s end

A god gave to Achilles, who was about to send

Him down to Hades’ dwellings, though he wished not to
go.

When fleet divine Achilles perceived his former foe

Naked and wanting helmet and shield; nor had he
spear; 50

For, truly, all these earthward he cast, for sweat severe

*Lykaon.
440 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Had worn, flying from the river, and toil his knees in-
clined;
He said with swelling anger in his great-hearted mind:
“ Ye gods, a mighty wonder here with my eyes I view,
Since the great-hearted Trojans whom once before I
slew, 55
Will rise again against me from dusky darkness’ power,
Just as this hero rises and flies the cruel hour
(Erst sold in sacred Lemnos); nor has restrained his
course
The wave of hoary Ocean, which holds full many averse.
Yet come, let him the trial of my spear-point undergo, 60
That I may see in spirit, that I may surely know
Whether he thence will journey, or if the earth will hold,—
Fair earth, the life-bestowing, which quells the strong
and bold.”
Thus, standing still, he pondered; Lykaon came near,
distraught,
To clasp his knees desiring; for much in soul he sought 65
To fly from death all-evil and ’scape from sable Fate.
But now divine Achilles raised up his javelin great
With fierce desire to wound him; he ran ’neath the attack
And seized his knees in bending; the spear stood o’er his
back
In earth, desiring greatly on human flesh to seize. 70
Yet with one hand beseeching he seized upon his knees,
With the other held the javelin acute, and would not free,
And, with winged words addressing, besought him eagerly:
“T clasp your knees, Achilles; regard and pity me.
I stand before you suppliant, Zeus-bred, to be revered; 75
For first with you I feasted on Ceres’ fruit preferred
That day you made me captive the well-tilled field within,
And sold me to the stranger, far from my sire and kin,
To sacred Lemnos, bringing a hundred oxen’s worth.
Now thrice this price I offer; the twelfth morn has gone
forth 80
Since I returned to Ilion oppressed by many a pain;
But now a fate destroying gives me to you again.
It seems that Zeus, the Father, bears me a hatred sore,
Who again to you has given; short-lived my mother bore,
BOOK XxI 441

Laothoé, the daughter of Altes, hero eld, 85
Who o’er the warlike Leleges, as king, his scepter held,
Possessing lofty Pedasos upon Satniois’ swell.—

But Priam had his daughter, and many others as well;
From her we two descended, yet you will slay the twain. —

Amid the foremost footmen already you have slain go
Polydoros, like a godhead, when you struck him with sharp
spear;

And now to me comes evil; for I do not think that here
I shall evade your hands, since a godhead brings you near.
Another thing I tell you, conceal it in your mind:
Slay not, for Hektor’s brother I’m not by mother joined, 95
Who slew your dear companion, valiant and generous.”
The glorious son of Priam addressed Achilles thus,
With accents supplicating, but heard his harsh decree:
“ Fool do not talk of ransom, nor speak of it to me.
For sooth, before Patroklos attained his fatal dav, 100
So long within my spirit less grateful ‘t was to slay
The Trojans, and full many I took alive and sold.
Now none shall ’scape from slaughter of all the Trojans
bold,
And least the sons of Priam while lofty Ilion stands,
Whoe’er a favouring godhead may put within my
hands. 105
Yet now, my friend, die also; why thus lament and rue?
Patroklos, too, has perished, one better far than you.
And can you not distinguish how I am great and fair?
And from a lofty father, and a goddess mother bare;
Yet I myself death sable and violent Fate must
share.— 110
A morn will come, or even, or middle of the day,
When someone in fierce battle will take my life away
By arrow from the bowstring, or by casting flying dart.”
Thus spoke he; but was loosened his knees* and pre-
cious heart;
And he released the javelin and sat with either hand — 115
Outspread; but there Achilles unsheathed his trenchant
brand.
He struck beside the clavicle the neck; the two-edged blape

#Lykaon’s.
442 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Entered the flesh entirely; and prone on earth displayed

He lay; the blood all-sable flowed out and wet the earth.

Seizing his foot, Achilles on the river cast him forth —_120

To be borne away and, boasting, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“ Lie there now with the fishes, who will, without un-

rest,

Lick from your wounds the blood-drops; nor will your
mother weep,

Placing you on the death-couch; but Skamander eddying-
dee

Will bear you to the bosom broad of the hoary brine. 125

And, leaping through the billows, the wandering fish will
shine

Through the black flood to batten on Lykaon’s snowy fat.

Then die, ye flying Trojans, till 1 come to the gate

Of sacred Ilion’s city; I’ll follow you to slay;

Nor will the wide-spread river with silvery eddies stay, 130

To whom full many bullocks you offered in the past,

And whole-hoofed living horses amid the eddies cast.

Yet by an ill death perish till all of you requite

The slaughter of Patroklos and the Achaians’ blight,

Whom by the rapid vessels you killed, with me apart.” 135

Thus spoke he; but the River was angered more at

heart,

And pondered in his spirit how he might stop the war

Waged by divine Achilles, and the Trojans’ bale debar.

Meanwhile the son of Peleus with his long-shadowed spear

Attacked Asteropaios and sought to slay him here, 140

Pelegon’s son, whom Axios, with currents wide and clear,

Begot with Periboia, Akessamenos’ daughter fair,

The eldest; for the River, deep-eddying, cherished her.

Achilles rushed against him; he from the stream with-

stood,
Holding in hand two javelins; Xanthos with strength
endued 145
His soul, for he was angered for the youths who were sub-
dued,—

For those Achilles slaughtered nor pitied in his flood.
But when they came together, upon each other pressed,
BOOK XNI 443

Foot-swift devine Aciilles, first of the two, addressed:
* Whenceare you who of heroes who dare thus with

me fight? 150
The sons of those are hapless who come against my
might.”

But him the glorious offspring of Pelegon addressed:
“ Magnanimous Pelides, why is my race your quest ?
I'm from Paionia fertile, far distant from us here,
And lead Paionian warriors, who battle with long
spear; 155
This is the cleventh morning since | to Ilion came.—
From widely-Howing Asios [take my race and name,
[Axios, who fairest water pours o'er his earthy bed],
Who Pelegon spear-famous begot and he, “t ts said,
Begot me; let us battle at once, Achilles praised.” 100
Thus spoke he, bearing menace; divine Achilles raised
The Pelian ash; but hero Asteropaios failed.
With one he struck the buckler, vet not clear through it

held,
For the present of the godhead, he golden plate
repelled; 105

By one the forearm slightly near his right hand was grazed;

The black blood gushed forth from it; the javelin, o'er
him raised,

Was fixed in earth, desiring to sate itself with flesh.

Bur, in his turn, Achilles sent forth th’ unerring ash

Against Asteropaios, desiring to destroy, i

Yer this, too, missed its object and struck the stream’s
bank high;

The ashen javelin buried one half its shaft in earth.

Pelides the sharp falchion beside his thigh drew forth,

And leapt on him in furv,; but he* with his stouc hand

Could not withdraw th’ ash javelin of Achilles from the

strand. 175
Three times with might he shook it, to draw it much
inclined,

And thrice his forces failed him; when fourth he wished
in mind,
While bending o'er, to break off Atakides’ ash spear,

* Aster patos.
444 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

His life Achilles mastered, with falchion coming near.
He struck him on the belly near the navel, in such

wise 180
That his entrails all fell earthward, and darkness veiled
the eyes

Of him who died. Achilles trampled upon his breast,
And spoiled his armour, boasting, and with this speech

addressed:
“ Lie there; it is not easy for you, though born from
River,
To strive with the descendants of Zeus, prepotent
ever. 185

You say your generation with the flowing River blends;

But I boast that my lineage to mighty Zeus ascends.

I came from chief who ruled o’er full many a Myrmidon,

Peleus, the son of Aiakos; and Aiakos was Jove’s son.

As Jove is far more potent than Rivers flowing to the
sea, 190

So Jove’s race is more potent than a River’s race can be.

For a great River is near you to aid you if he please,

Yet in nowise ’t is fated to fight Zeus Kronides.

For not King Archelous esteems himself as good,

Nor the great strength of Ocean’s profoundly-flowing
flood; 195

From whose breast all the rivers and all the seas below,

And all deep wells and fountains in ample currents flow.

Yet e’en he fears the lightning by great Kronion given,

And dreads the dreadful thunder when it resounds from

heaven.”
Thus saying, from the stream’s bank he drew the brazen
spear.— 200

When he the life had riven, he left him lying here

Amid the sands; and washed him the water black and
dim;

And eels and fish surrounded the dead and gnawed at him,

And nibbled at the fatness which round the kidneys

spanned.
But he* sped on, attacking the Paionian horse-borne
band, 205

* Achilles.
BOOK XXI 445

Who by the eddying river were now borne on in flight,
When they saw their bravest warrior amid the powerful
fight
Beneath Pelides’ falchion and hands by force subdued.—
Astypylos, Thersilochos he slew, and Mydon good,
Ainios, Mnesos, Thrasios and Ophclestes then, 210
And more of the Paionians had fleet Achilles slain,
If the deep-eddying River had not in anger spoke
(Like to a man), while accents from his deep vortex broke:
“ Achilles, you are potent, and actions which degrade
The others you accomplish, for the gods aye give you
aid. 215
If the son of Kronos give you all Trojans to destroy,
Let them from me be driven; aplain work your annoy.
For my pleasant streams are filled up by the bodies cast
o’er me;
Nor can I pour my current down to the sacred sea,
Compressed by many corpses; you slay with deadly
stroke. : 220
Yet come, desist; a stupour holds me, O chief of folk.”
To him in making answer foot-swift Achilles said:
“ These things shall meet your order, Skamander, O
Zeus-bred.
Yet I will not cease slaying the haughty Trojan band
Before the town contains them; and I in trial stand 225
With Hektor, so he kill me, or so I master him.”
Thus saying, upon the Trojans he rushed, like godhead

grim.
Then the deep-eddying River to King Apollo said:
“O god with bow of silver, Jove’s son, you’ve not

obeyed
The counsels of Kronion, who many commandments
made 230

For you to aid the Trojans till even’s sun revealed
Should bring on tardy sunset and shade the fertile field.”
Thus he; spear-famed Achilles amid the current leapt,
Rushing down from the stream bank. The swollen River
swept
With all his turbid currents, and drove full many
a corse 235
446 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

(Of these he bore abundance whom Achilles slew by force).
He cast them from his waters (while bellowing like a bull)
On earth, but saved the living in his currents beautiful,
Preserving them by hiding in his deep and ample flood.
Then dire around Achilles the turbid billow stood; = 240
The stream fell on his buckler and pushed him from the

sands;

His feet could gain no foothold; he seized with both his
hands

An elm, well-grown and mighty; that fell with roots and
shade,

And loosened all the stream-bank and the fair current
stayed

With dense-set boughs extended; it made a bridge
for him, 245

All falling in the river; then from the vortex dim

He sprang and rushed to ’scape it, with rapid feet aplain,

In fear. The great god ceased not, but followed him amain

With all his blackening billows, that he might stop the war

Waged by divine Achilles and the Trojans’ ruin bar. 250

But Pelides leapt the distance of a javelin cast afar,

With the rush of the black eagle, hunter beyond compare,

Who is at once the strongest and fleetest bird of air;

Like it he rushed in flying; the brass upon his breast

Rung with terrific clangour; and he, obliquely
pressed 255

Fled; and the River followed with mighty thundering.

As when an irrigator leads from black-watered spring

A stream of flowing water through gardens and through
groves,

And, spade in hand, obstructions out of the furrow moves;

And, while the stream is flowing, the pebbles all below 260

Are rolled on, and it murmurs in its tumultuous flow

Down the incline, and passes the man who leads it on;

Thus ever by Achilles the River’s billows run,

Though he was very rapid; for gods o’ermaster men.

As often as swift-footed divine Achilles, then, 265

Tried to stand up against it, and learn if he was driven

In flight by all the immortals who hold the spacious
heaven,
BOOK XxXI 447

So often the great billows of the River flowing from Jove
Struck downward on his shoulders; with lofty bounds he

drove,
Afflicted in his spirit; his knees the River fleet 270
Subdued, and washed in flowing the dust from ’neath his
feet.

Pelides then lamented, gazing on heaven wide:
“ Zeus Sire, how am I wretched that ne’er a god has tried
To save me from the River, whatever pain might be.
Yet none of the Celestials is so much blamed by
me 275
As is my cherished mother who with vain falsehoods
warmed:
Who said that ’neath the ramparts of the Trojans corselet
armed,
I should by King Apollo’s swift flying shafts be torn.—
Would I were slain by Hektor, the best in Ilion born;
Then had a brave man slain me, a brave man were de-
spoiled. 280
But now IJ am alloted by fate a death defiled,
Whelmed in a mighty River, just as a swine-herd’s boy,
Whom, while he fords a torrent, the wintry streams
destroy.”
Thus he; and very quickly Neptune and Pallas then
Went near and stood beside him, in form resembling

men; 285
And, taking hand in hand-clasp, with words confirmed
his force.—
Then Neptune, the Earth-Shaker, ’mid them began dis-
course:

“ Pelides, do not tremble, and let not fear subdue,
For we twain of the godheads are such an aid to you
(And all with Jove’s approval), I and Athena, too; 290
Since ’t is not fated for you the River’s prey to be;
And he will soon give over, as you yourself shall see.
We will support you strongly if you obey in aught,
Nor cease your hands from battle, with equal evil fraught,
Ere you enclose the Trojans, who fly from you in strife, 295
Within Troy’s famous ramparts. —When you take

Hektor’s life,
448 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Go back upon the vessels; we give you fame to-day.”
And, when both thus had spoken, to the gods they
went away.
But he went to the prairie (for much the gods’ command
Incited him to struggle) where the wave filled all the
strand. 300
There floated much fair armour of the youths who had
been slain,
And corpses swam around him. His knees leapt high
amain
Against the rushing current; nor held him from his course
The widely-flowing River, for Athena gave him force.
Nor Skamander ceased his effort, but greater anger
held 305
Against the son of Peleus and his watery torrent swelled;
Rising aloft in fury, he called to Simois loud:
“ Let us both chain, dear brother, this hero’s vigour
proud;
Since he will quickly ruin the city of Priam, King;
For the Trojans will not wait him amid the combat-
ing. 310
So bear me aid most quickly, and fill your currents bright
With water from the fountains, and all your rills incite;
And raise a mighty billow and boundless tumult plan
Of rocks and broken tree-trunks to stop this savage man,
Who now is victor, thinking to do deeds like a god. 315
Yet, I say, strength shall not aid him, nor beauteous form
bestowed,
Nor even his fair armour which in my lowest pool
Shall lie by deep slime covered; and o’er himself I'll roll
Sands in sufficient measure, and pour vast silt apace;
Nor shall th’ Achaians ‘discover his bones’ abiding-
place; 320
So great the mud collected that I o’er him will bear.
And here shall be his barrow, nor shall a need be there
Of tomb when the Achaians perform his exequy.”
Thus he, and on Achilles rushed turbid, raging high,
Murmuring with spreading foam and with corpses and
with blood.— 325
At once the purple water of the Zeus-descended flood
BOOK XX] 449

Stood, rising round about him, and seized the chief anon.
But Hera shouted loudly, fearing for Peleus’ son,
Lest he should be swept downward by the River eddying

dread.
Then quickly to Hephaistos, her cherished son, she
said: 330
“Rise up to war, Hephaistos, my child, we think
your might

Is peer to that of eddying Xanthos’s in the fight;

Yet bear your aid most quickly and show your bound-
less fire;

And I will go to Ocean and raise a whirlwind dire,

And, with its masters, Zephyr and rapid Notos,

turn, 335
Upon the Trojan warriors, so their heads and armour
burn,

And bring a flame of evil. But burn the trees which sway

On Xanthos’ banks; then burn him, but do not turn away

By any flattering speeches or any threats withal;

And do not cease your vigour; but when you hear
me call 340

With sounding shout, then bridle your flames which do
Not tire.”

Thus she; and Vulcan darted his brightly-burning fire.
Aplain the fire first kindled and burned full many a corse,
Which were there in abundance, slain by Achilles’ force;
And all the plain was withered, and the water bright was

held. 345
As when autumnal Boreas dries up the new-wet field
Full soon; and he rejoices who tills the land outspread.
Thus all the plain was dried up, and the fire burned up
the dead;
Then he the flame resplendent back to the River turned;
And all the elms and willows and tamarisks were
burned, 350
And the lotuses and rushes and the reeds were kindled,
too,
Which by the beauteous currents of the River thickly
Tew;
And the ells and fish were troubled, who in the eddies were,
f
450 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who through the beauteous currents were wandering
here and there,
Worn by the breath of Vulcan, possessing knowledge

dread. 355
But the River’s force was wasted, and he spoke the word
and said:
“ Vulcan, none of the godheads can stand against your
might,
Norcan I stand against you, who burn with flame-wreathes
bright.

Cease, let divine Achilles drive from their city free
The Trojans. What is battle and what is aid to
‘ me?” 360
Thus he, burned by fire’s fury; his fair stream

bubbled dire.

And as a kettle boils up within, urged by much fire,

Melting the fat abundant of a hog fed on rich food,
Bubbling o’er all, while ’neath it lies the well-seasoned

wood;
Thus flame consumed the currents fair, and the water
boiled, 365
And could not flow on freely, but stopped; the vapour
moiled

By the force of wily Vulcan. The River Hera pressed,
Praying with many, speeches, and wingéd words ad-

_ dressed:
“Why does your son, O Hera, press thus upon my
stream, /
More than upon the others? I’m not so “much to
blame 370

As are the other godheads. who aid the Trojan band.

Yet I will cease from warring if such is your command;

And let him cease it also. This oath, too, I will lay;

That I will never ward off the Trojans’ evil day;

Not if the fire destroying to ashes Ilion turn, 375

And the brave sons of th’ Achaians with flames the city
burn.”

But when white-elbowed Hera, the goddess, heard this

said,

To her dear son, Hephaistos, at once her words were sped:
BOOK XXI 451

“ Hephaistos, son illustrious, hold, for it is not meet

To torment god immortal for mortals’ benefit.” 380
Thus she: and he extinguished the brightly-burning
flame;

And the fair-flowing currents with refluent water came.
But when the strength of Xanthos was mastered, both
abstained;
For Hera, though in anger, the two from wrath restrained.
Yet ’mid the other godheads dire, heavy discord
pressed; 385
To divers parts were driven the mind within the breast.
They met with mighty clangour, and crashed the ample
ground;
Great heaven resounded o’er them. Zeus even heard the
sound,
Sitting upon Olympus, his heart laughed with his joy
When he beheld the godheads clashing in war’s annoy. 390
Not long they shunned each other; shield-piercing Mars
begun
The strife, and on Athena, the first of all, drove on,
Holding a brazen javelin, and chiding shamefully:
“ Why yet again, O Shameless, with dire audacity
Join you the gods in conflict, has your great soul im-
pelled? 395
But do you not remember when you Diomed upheld
In wounding? Yet you, taking, the glancing javelin bore,
And urged it straight against me and all the fair flesh tore?
Thus, now I think to pay you for all the ills you wrought.”
Thus saying, he struck the aegis with many a tassel
fraught, 400
Terrific, which the lightning of Zeus Sire does not sear.
This blood-polluted Ares struck with his lengthy spear.
But she, a space receding, seized with her valid hand
A rock lying on the prairie, sable and rough and grand,
Which former men had placed there to be a field’s ex-

tremes. 405
With this she struck fierce Ares on neck, and loosed his
limbs.

He fell o’er seven acres, the dust his hair defiled;
His armour clashed about him; Pallas with laugh reviled
452 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And, boasting loudly o’er him, with wingéd words ad-

dressed:
“ Have you ne’er learned, O blockhead, how much I
am the best, 410

When you oppose my vigour and stand in equal fray?
Thus to your mother’s Furies do you requital pay;
She, angered, works you evil, for you th’ Achaians be-
trayed,
And to the haughty Trojans gave countenance and aid.”
Thus saying, she averted her eyes which radiance
shed. 415
But Venus, Zeus’s daughter, by hand King Ares led,
Who often groaned, and gathered his mind with pain and
care. '
But when white-elbowed Hera, the goddess, saw her there,
She quickly to Athena with wingéd words spoke thus:
“Ye gods, Unconquered, daughter of aegis-bearing

Zeus,
Once more this shameless leads forth Ares, destroying-
men, 420

From tumult of dire battle; yet follow her amain.”

Thus she; Athena, joying in mind, close after pressed
And rushed on Aphrodité and struck her on the breast;
And there her knees were loosened, her dear heart laxed in

ain,

And bak of them were lying on the many-feeding plain; 425
But she, above them boasting, her wingéd words conveyed:
“ If everyone were likewise who are the Trojans’ aid,
When with the well-armed Argives they fight and war

foment,
Were thus as brave and daring as Venus when she went
An aid of rushing Ares, and stood against my power; 430
Then we had ceased from warring long days before this
hour;
And the well-built city Ilion had ravaged in the war.”
Thus she; and white-armed Hera, the goddess, smiled
on her.
Then spoke the King Earth-Shaker to King Apollo thus:

“Phoebus, why are we parted? This is not meet

for us, 435
BOOK XXxI 453

Since the rest begin the battle; ’t were shame if we should
come,

Untried in strife, to Olympus and Zeus’s brass-floored
dome.

Begin, for you are younger; and ’t would not seem me so,

Since I was born before you, and know more than you

know.
Fool, with a heart regardless! Nor does your memory
own 440

How many ills we suffered round sacred Ilion

(We twain alone of godheads), when proud Laomedon

We served well for a twelvemonth (we came from potent
Zeus)

For stipulated wages, and he commanded us?

Then round the Trojan city I built the rampart
well, 445

Broad, beauteous, so the city might be impregnable;

While, Phoebus, you watched oxen, foot-trailing, curving-
horned,

Amid the many valleys of Ida, wood-adorned.

But when the Hours bore onward the time of grateful pay.

Then violent Laomedon by violence took away 450
All payments he had promised, and thence with threaten-
ing drove.

He threatened e’en to fetter your feet and hands above,

And sell to distant islands to serve in coming years,

And said that he would cut off with brass both of our ears.

But we retraced our pathway, our souls with anger
fraught, 455

Enraged about the payments he promised and gave not.

For this, now to this people you bear a meed of grace,

Nor seek with us to ruin the faithless Trojan race,

Their modest wives and children, with root and branches
wide.”

Far-darting King Apollo to him in turn replied: 460

“ Earth-Shaker, you’d not name me as having prudence
true,

If I for wretched mortals engaged in war with you,

Who to the leaves bear semblance, which at one time
come forth
454 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Transcendent in their splendour, and eat the fruit of earth;
Another time they wither indeath. Butratherfar 465
Let us cease from the battle and let themselves make
war.”
Thus saying, he turned backward; for shame’s and
fear’s commands
Restrained him from contending with his father’s brother’s

hands.
His sister chid him greatly, mistress of monsters dread;
[Diana, rustic virgin, who with reproaches said]: 470

“ Then do you fly, Far-darting, and yield all victory
To Neptune and thus give him the glory easily?
Why do you thus, O Foolish, possess a useless bow ?
Nor let me hear in future you boasting as you go
Within our father’s mansions, as ’mid the gods before, 475
That you against Posidon would go to meet in war.”
Thus she; but naught Far-darting to her in answer said.
Yet Zeus’s reverenced consort was moved by anger dread;
(And chided Shaft-rejoicing with words of injury):
“* Bold dog, how are you able to stand here now ’gainst
me? 480
For I am hard in combat for you with strength displayed,
Though you a bow may carry, and Zeus a lion made
’Mid women, and has granted you to slay them as you will.
In truth, ’t is better for you the mountain beasts to kill,
Or rustic stags than battle in might with stronger foe. 485
Yet if you wish for conflict, come on, that you may know
How much I am the stronger; since you with force with-
stand.”
Thus she, and with her left hand the wrists of either
hand
Seized on, but from the shoulders with right hand took
the bow,
And o’er the ears of Dian delivered many a blow
And smiled, though Dian struggled, and the swift shafts
fell out.
Then fled the weeping goddess, as pigeon flies in rout,
Which flies from hawk pursuing, a hollow rock to gain,
For shelter; since fate willed not that she should thus be
ta’en;
BOOK XNNI 485

Thus, leaving bow and atrows, the weeping goddess
fled. $08
, The slaver of Argus,* messenger, then to T atena said:
* Ler, Lowill noe fight vou, ter it were tod protuse
To battle with the conserts of ¢ lud-scompelling / CUS;
Burt be most prompe and ready co boast in your discourse
Amid the geds immertal thar you quelled me by

foree.” im
Thus spoke be; and Larona the bow and arrows truss-
ead,

Which here and there had fallen amid a whirl of dust.
Vhen she, the arrows taking, followed her daughter home,
Whe now had reached Olympus and <cus’s brass-Hoored

dome.
The weeping maiden sat down before her father’s
knees: 08

Het robe ambrosial crembled round her, and Kronides,
Her tacther, drew her te hin, and questioned while he
sintled :
“ Who now of the Celestials has wrought these deeds,
my child ?
[Rashh, as if some evil vou openh arraved |]
Vo him then answered Dian. well-crowned, Tumultuous
Mad: sto
* Your consort, whitearmed Hera, O sire, bas injured me;
From whom to the immortals discord and battle be.”
And thus the comersanion bepween the godhcads run
But now a Phocbus came to sacted Thon;

For he was watching over the well-buce civ 's wall, arg
Lest that day the Danaans race i, thoogh vet undoomed to
fall,

But the other gods inmoral wen to Oh mpus high,
And some were glon in greatly, some, raging anguly,
And by Zeus, verlag ur derkress, sac. Bue Achules slew
Aranee the Trojan warriors and shewrerhole Tuto’ hones

mo. g20
As when the smoke ascending from city wrapped in fire
Reaches the spacious heaven, sent bv the p wNiheads’ ire,
And gives to ait dire Labour, ta mans, sorrows sere,

*Hermes.

  
456 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus Achilles to the Trojans labour and sorrows bore.
Old Priamos was standing upon the sacredtower, 525
And saw immense Achilles; ’tore him the Trojan power
Fled in confounded tumult; nor any strength had birth.
And he, lamenting greatly, came from the tower to earth,
Commanding the illustrious gate-keepers by the wall:
“ Hold in your hands the portals wide, till the people
all 530
Come, flying to the city; for Achilles certainly
Is near us and makes tumult; and I think dire need
will be.
But when within the ramparts enclosed, they breathe
from pain,
The firmly fashioned portals put in their place again.
For I fear this man destructive will rash within the

wall.” 535

Thus he; they oped the portals and let the cross-bars
fall;

Thus spread, they offered safety. But Apollo leapt with-
out

To meet the flying people and guard the Trojans’ rout.

Yet they straight to the city and the lofty wall amain,

Parching with thirst and dusty, were flying from the
plain. 540

With spear he madly followed; and fury’s powerful flame

Aye in his heart was raging, while he sought to conquer
fame.

Then the sons of the Achaians high-gated Troy had won

won,

Had not Apollo Phoebus urged divine Agenor on,

Antenor’s son, a hero blameless and strong and good. 545

He in his heart cast courage, and by the warrior stood,

That he might ward the Keres of heavy death and blight,

Leaning against a beech-tree and folded in much night.

But when he* saw Achilles, waster of cities fair,

He stayed, though darkened greatly his heart while he

stayed there, 550
And said, though sighing deeply, in his great-hearted
mind:

*Agenor.
BOOK XXI 457

“ Ah me!—If from Achilles mighty, with impulse blind,

I fly as do the others confused in tumult high,

F’en thus will he seize on me and slay me as I fly.

But if I let these warriors be driven confusedly 555

By Achilles, son of Peleus, elsewhere my feet may flee

From the wall by Ilion’s prairie, till I at last attain

The woody glens of Ida, and its close-set thickets gain.

Then, washing in the river, when Hesper’s watch-fires
burn,

And cooled from perspiration, I may to Troy return. §60

But why does thus my spirit run o’er these matters vain?

For he may see me leaving the city for the plain;

Then he may rush upon me and seize on rapid feet,

And from black death and Keres there’ll be no more
retreat,

For he is much more powerful than any man below. 565

But if against this warrior before the town I go—

For surely now his body sharp brass may disarray,

And he has but one spirit and he can die, men say.

{Though Zeus, the son of Kronos, surpassing glory gave].”

Thus saying, he gathered courage to wait Achilles

brave, 570

And in his valiant spirit for war and combat glowed.

As when a panther rushes from thicket deep and rude

Upon a stalwart hunter, who in no way appears

Disturbed in mind, nor flies it, though he the wild yell

hears;
For e’en if erst he wound it or strike with javelin
bright, 575
Or pierce with spear brass-pointed, it will not cease to
fight;

But with its foe will grapple before it is subdued;
Thus the son of famed Antenor, divine Agenor good,
Wished not to fly Achilles before his strength was tried;
Yet held before his buckler, equal on every side, 580
And aimed at him with javelin, and to him loudly cried:

“ Tllustrious Achilles, in sooth, you hope in mind
To raze to-day the city of the glorious Trojan kind.
O fool!—Yet many sorrows will from this goal debar.
For in the city many and valiant warriors are, 585
458 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who for their cherished parents, children and wives de-
bate,
Defending sacred Ilion; but here will you find fate,
Though terrible, and warrior transcendent with the
brand.”
Thus he, and sent the javelin forth from his heavy hand.
Tt struck (and did not miss him) ’neath the knee, upon
the shin, 590
And terribly resounded the greave of new-wrought tin.
The brass flew from the stricken, nor pierced; the god’s
gift quelled.
But on Agenor godlike the son of Peleus held,
The second; nor did Phoebus let him gain glory bright,
But snatched away Agenor, and veiled in dusky night, 595
And let him go in quiet from the battle and the toil.
But he turned back Achilles from the people by a wile.
For ’gainst him Hekaergos, Agenor-like to view,
Stood in the way before him; he rushed on to pursue.
And he kept on, pursuing, o’er the plain where cornlands
- sweep, é 600
And turned toward the river of Skamander eddying deep;
Running a space before him, Apollo by deceit
Beguiled him who hoped ever to reach him on his feet.
Meanwhile the other Trojans fled on, with pleasure
thrilled,
In concourse to the city, and all the city filled. 605
For none outside the city and wall dared to remain
For others, or to find out who fled or who were slain
In warring; but, rejoicing, into the town they raved,
Whoever of the flying their feet and knees had saved.
BOOK XXII 459

BOOK XXII

THE SLAYING OF HEKTOR,

Thus they through all the city, like fawns, in swift

flight burst,

Respired from PEnSpiseHen and drank, and slaked their
thirst,

And leaned ’gainst the fair bulwarks, while th’ Achaians
closer came

To the wall, and from their shoulders* inclined their
shields of flame.

But Hektor there was fettered by the destroying Fates 5

To stay before high Ilion and the wide Skaian gates.

And thus Apollo Phoebus said to Pelides fleet:

“Why do you, son of Peleus, pursue with rapid feet,—
Yourself, though only mortal, a deathless god like me?
You do rot know my godship, but rage incessantly. —_10
You care not for the Trojans who fled from you in fear;—
They now have gained the city while you are erring here.
.Nor can you hope to slay me, for I shall never die.”

To him foot-swift Achilles, much angered, made reply:
“You’ve injured me, Far-darting, most baleful god of

all, 15
Turning me from the rampart; or many now withal
Had seized the earth with gnashing ere they to Troy had

come.
You robbed me of great glory and saved them from their
. doom
With ease, and had no fear that thereafter pain should be.
But I’ll wreak vengeance on youif thereis powerinme.” 20

Thus saying, toward the city, thinking great ae

he bare,

Rushing like race-horse winning a victory with the car,

Who lightly o’er the prairie speeds with full energies;

Thus. Achilles moved, in running, with speed his feet and
knees.

*To protect themselves from missiles from the wall.
460 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But first the old man, Priam, beheld him with his
eyes, 25
Rushing upon the prairie like bright star in the skies,
Which rises in the autumn and pours its splendid blaze
Among the many clusters of night’s transcendent haze,
Which by the appellation, Orion’s dog, they call;
And this is most resplendent, but a sign of ill to all. 30
To miserable mortals its fierce heat brings unrest;
Thus the brass o’ the hero running flamed dire around his
breast.
The ancient then lamented and struck with hands his
head,
Then lifted high to heaven and ululations sped,
Praying to his son cherished, who stood before the pate, 35
Who wished with fiery impulse to fight Achilles great.
The sire, with hands extended, called out in piteous tone:
“ Hektor, dear son, await not this warrior thus alone,
Without the help of others, lest fate too quickly mar,

O’ermastering by Pelides, since he is better far. 40
The wretch! Would he were cherished by the gods as now
by me;

Full soon the dogs and vultures would eat him greedily.

Then, truly, from my bosom a dreadful pain would go;

For many sons and strenuous I lest by this dire foe,

Who slew or sold in bondage to islands far from shore. 4§

And even now, two children, Lykaon and Polydore,

I see not in the city of the Trojans now confined

(Those whom Laothoé bore me, the best of womankind),

Yet if they live in bondage, with store of brass and gold

I will in future ransom; I have it in my hold; 5o

Since famous, aged Atles much on his child bestowed.

But if they’re dead already and in Hades’ dread abode,

Pain holds me and their mother, who gave to life the
twain,

But to the other people shorter would be the pain

If you, too, do not perish, by fleet Achilles slain. 55

Yet come within the rampart, my son, that you may save

The Trojan men and women, nor give Pelides brave

Great glory, nor your spirit of its dear life deprive.

And pity me unhappy, ill-fated, yet alive,
BOOK XXII 461

Whom Kronides, the Father, destroys with harshest
fate 60

Upon old age’s threshold, giving me evils great:

My sons destroyed in battle, my daughters captive borne,

And all their chambers plundered, my children weak and
lorn,

Amid the dreadful warring, flung out upon the sands,

My daughters-in-law dragged captive by the Danaans’
baneful hands. 6

And when one with sharp weapon has struck me, or has
cast :

’Gainst me the spear and taken life from my limbs at
last—

Raw-eating dogs will drag me (whom in my hause and

yard
T nurtured with all kindness to be my table guard)
And drink my flowing life-blood and, frenzied in their
mood, 70
Will lie before the portals. For youth in war subdued
'T is well and is beseeming to fall by sharp brass torn,
He finds, when dead, all honour whatever fate is borne,
Yet when the beard is hoary, and the head is hoar in pain,
And dogs defile the members of an old man who is
slain, 75
*T is piciable 8 mortals, whe many sorrows bear.”
The ancient spoke, while tearing with hands his hoary

hair,

Plucking from his head, but changed not by this great
Hektor’s mind.

On the other hand, his mother her groans and tear-drops
joined,

And bared her breasts and held up in either hand a
breast, 80

And, weeping and lamenting, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:

“ Hektor, my child, respect these, revere and pity me,
If e’er my breast I gave you to bring felicity,
My son, keep in remembrance; avoid this foeman grim
By entering the rampart, nor stand opposed to him. 85
The wretch!-—For if he slay you, in nowise shall | mourn
462 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

You, on the couch funereal, dear youth whom I -have
borne;
Nor will ‘your rich-dowered consort; but far from our
retreat, :
The swift dogs of the Danaans beside the ships will eat.”
And thus the two, lamenting, their cherished son

addressed, go
Praying with many speeches, but changed not Hektor’s
breast;

Thuis stayed he for Achilles immense who nearer pressed,
And as a sylvan serpent, on evil poison fed,
Waits by his den a hero and swells with anger dread,
And glares with gaze malignant and coils around his
den; 95
Thus Hektor, filled with valour, did not go back again,
But ’gainst a jutting turret his glittering shield inclined.
And, filled with wrath, he spoke to his own great-hearted
mind:

“‘ Ah me!—If once I enter the portals and the wall,
Polydamas will blame me, and be the first of all, 100
Who bade me lead the Trojans within the city’s close,
Beneath the night destroying before Achilles rose.

Yet I did not obey him, though it were better far;

Now, since I lost the people by rashness in the war,

The Trojans and their consorts, who trail their robes, I
fear: 105

Lest someone less than I am say with reproach severe:

‘Proud of his own force, Hektor has lost the folk in war.’

Thus will they say; but ere this it would be better far

To go against Achilles and slay him with renown,

Or be destroyed with glory by him before the town. 110

Should I my bossy buckler upon the earth let fall,

And eke my heavy helmet, and lean against the wall

My spear, and thus ’gainst blameless Achilles boldly fare,

And promise to give Helen and all the wealth with her

(All—all, which Alexander on the hollow vessels bore 115

To Troy, which was beginning of the miserable war),

For th’ Atridae to take with them; and to th’ Achaians
besides

To deal out other possessions which yet the city hides.
BOOK XXII 463

Then IJ would force the Trojans to take a mighty oath

To nowise hide their treasures, but halve all true for
both— 120

[As many as the loved city within its walls confines].

Yet wherefore does my spirit discourse of these designs?

I fear if I should meet him he would not pity me,

That he would not respect me, but slay, though I should
be

Defenceless as a woman, when I my arms unlock. —-125

In nowise is it fated from oak-tree nor from rock.

To hold a conversation as maid and youth converse.

{And maid and youth together between themselves dis-
course.

Better to meet in combat that we may quickly know

On which of us th’ Olympian the glory will bestow.” 130

Thus pondered he while waiting; Achilles came near

him,

Equal to Enyalios, helm-shaking warrior grim,

And shook on his right shoulder the Pelian ash-tree dire.

Around the brass gave flashes like the bright glow of fire,

Sparkling in radiant splendour, or like the rising sun. 135

But fear seized Hektor, seeing, he dared not meet alone,

Yet left the gates behind him and fled with fear replete.

Pelides then pursued him, trusting in his swift feet.

As falcon in the mountains, the swiftest bird of air,

Sweeps lightly in attacking a timid pigeon there, 140

Which flies away obliquely; he nears with piercing shriek,

And darts upon it often, and his mind commands to take;

Thus eagerly he rushed on; but trembling Hektor fled

Before the Trojan ramparts, with rapid knees he sped.

And they beside the lookout and the wild fig wind-

swept, 145
Yet aye beneath the rampart and the road for wagons,
kept,

And reached two founts fair-flowing, where the two
springs profound

Of eddying Skamander break from the fertile ground.

One flows with tepid water, and all around it steam

In full abundance rises as if from fire’s bright gleam. 150

The other spring in summer like hail in coldness flows,
464 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Or ice congealed from water, or like the chilling snows.

And near them there were basins, wide, beauteous and of
stone,

Where the wives and comely daughters of the men of Ilion

Washed their bright robes of splendour, erewhile when
peace was there, 155

Before th’ Achaians’ children came from Achaia fair.

They passed by these, one fleeing, while one behind him
bare;

First came a brave man flying, pursued by better far

With speed; for neither victim nor ox-hide would they
gain,

Which are the wonted prizes won by the feet of men; 160

Yet for the life of Hektor, tamer of steeds, they run.

As when entire-hoofed coursers, who many a prize have
won,

Run lightly round the race-course, and a great gift is
spread—

A tripod or a woman—for some high warrior dead;

Thus both round Priam’s city three times their course im-
pelled 165

With rapid feet in circuit; and all the gods beheld.

*Mid them the Sire of godheads and men discourse began:

Ye gods, with eyes I gaze on a dearly cherished man

Pursued around the ramparts; my heart is touched by pain

For Hektor, who full many fat thighs of oxen slain 170

Has burned upon the summits of many-valleyed Ide,

And in the highest city. Now, round Priam’s city wide

Divine Achilles follows him close with rapid feet.

Yet come, ye gods, and ponder; consider counsel meet:

Whether from death we save him, or whether we sub-
due 175

By Achilles, son of Peleus, though he be brave and true.”

In turn fierce-eyed Athena, the goddess, him addressed

“O Sire, White-Lightning-Sender, in gloomy storm-
clouds dressed,

What said you? Would you loosen from evilly-echoing
death ;

A man who is but mortal, long since condemned. to

scath? 180
BOOK XXII 465

Do so; but we, the godheads, would not like this decide.”
To her Zeus cloud-compelling in answer then replied:

“ Be strong in mind, Tritonia, not earnestly dear child,

Did I just now address you, but wish to be full mild;

Do now, without delaying, whate’er your mind in-

spired.” 185
Thus saying, he urged Athena, who erst had much de-
sired;

And, from Olympus’ summits, with rapid rush she fled.
But fleet Achilles ever close after Hektor sped.

As when dog in the mountains chases a fawn of deer

Through glens and wooded passes when he drives it from

its lair; 190

And if it hides in terror behind a thicket blind,

He runs and tracks securely till he the quarry find;

Thus Hektor could not ’scape from old Peleus’ rapid son.

And as often to the portals of the Dardans he would run,

In rapid flight towards them, beneath the well-built

towers, 195
That thus he might be guarded by descending missiles’
showers,

So often he* preceded and turned back to the plain;

But Hektor to the city fled ever, though in vain.

As in a dream pursuer attains not him who flies;

One cannot ’scape the follower, nor the other gain the

rize; 200
Thus Achilles could not take him, nor the other flee the
scath.—

How then did Hektor fly from the fates of sable death

Unless Apollo aided with his last subsidies

Anear, and in him roused up his strength and rapid knees ?

Divine Achilles nodded to the people with his head, 205

That none upon great Hektor their bitter shafts should
shed;

So none by shaft win glory, and he be next in fame.

But when they for the fourth time upon the fountains
came,

The Father lifted upward the golden scales of wrath,

And in them placed two keres of long-extending death; 210

* Achilles.
466 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

One for horse-tamer Hektor, one for Achilles lay.
He raised it by the middle, and Hektor’s fatal day
Inclined and sank to Hades; then Phoebus turned from
him,
And fierce-eyed Athena, goddess, came to Achilles grim
And, standing close beside him, with wingéd words ad-
dressed: 215
“T hope we twain, Zeus-cherished, Achilles manifest,
Will give to the Achaians by the ships great fame and fair
By slaying valiant Hektor, though insatiable of war.
No more to him ’t is fatéd refuge from us to gain,
Not if far-darting Phoebus should suffer many a pain 220
And bend before the feet of Sire aegis-bearing Jove.—
But now, stay and recover your vigour, while I move
Toward him and persuade him to meet in battle joined.”
Athena thus; he heeded, rejoicing in his mind,
And stood at rest, supported by ash spear with brass

entwined, 225
There, then, she left him standing, to Hektor divine was
borne,

In aspect like Deiphobos, and with his voice unworn,
And, standing close beside him, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
““My brother, swift Achilles, in truth, has sorely
pressed
You round the city of Priam, chasing with rapid feet;230
But come, and let us stand here, and make resistance
meet.”
Then great helm-glancing Hektor to him this answer bore:
“ Deiphobos, the dearest to me were you before
Of brothers, whom to Priam and Hekuba were born. _
Now more and greater honours you in my soul adorn, 235
Who dared to leave the rampart for me and dare the din,
With your own eyes beholding, while the others stay
within.”
To him in turn the goddess, fierce-eyed Athena, said:
“My brother, much my father and honoured mother
prayed,
In turn my knees embracing, and my companions
round, 240
BOOK XXII 467

That I should stay; for greatly all shook with fear pro-
found.

Yet = mind within was wearied by grievous pains and
ears.—

Now, let us fight him fiercely, nor be there lack of spears,

That we may see full quickly if Achilles both will slay,

And to the hollow vessels bear both our spoils away; 245

Or if by spear we master him by dire frenzy fed.”

Thus saying, Athena Pallas with deft deception led.
And when they came together, upon each other pressed,
Great helmet-glancing Hektor, the first, his foe addressed :

“No more, O son of Peleus, will I fly as before. 250
Thrice round the mighty city, divine, of Priam I bore,
Nor dared to wait your coming; but now my spirit high
Drives me to stand against you, whether I slay or die.

Yet come, let gods be witness between us, who will be

Best witnesses as viewers of pacts and harmony: 255

That I will not dishonour you, if the victory

To me by Zeus is given, and I take away your life;

Yet when your glorious armour I have despoiled in strife,

T’ll give back to th’-Achaians your corse; thus treat me
dead.”

But, gazing on him grimly, foot-swift Achilles said: 260
“Hektor, most curst of heroes, speak not of pacts to me.
As ’twixt the lions and hunters no faithful truce can be,
And equal mind the lambkins and wild wolves never

thrills,
Yet aye to one another they meditate dire ills;
Thus love is not between us, nor any truce at all 265
Shall be to us twain heroes, ere one of us shall fall
And sate with black blood Ares, warrior with bull’s-hide
shield.
Remember all your vigour; there’s need for you afield
To be a valiant spearman and warrior stout and true.
There is no further refuge; Athena will subdue 270
You soon beneath my javelin; and you shall now pay here
All sorrows of my comrades whom you slew with raging
spear.”
Thus he and, after shaking, his spear long-shadowed

sent,
468 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But noble Hektor saw it, and shunned it as it went;
For, seeing it speed, he crouched down, and the brass
spear o’er him flew, 275
And fixed in earth; but Pallas Athena backward drew
And gave it to Achilles; yet Hektor, chief of folk,
Saw not. But now to blameless Achilles Hektor spoke:
“You erred, divine Achilles, and nowise did you know
From Zeus my fate impending, though you have spoken
so. 280
But you are apt in speaking and in deft speech delight,
That I by this may fear you and forget my strength and
might.
Not in my back, while flying, shall you infix your spear,
But drive it through my bosom while I rush on you here,
If this a godhead gave you; but now my brazen spear 285
Avoid; would in your body you might receive it all.
Then lighter on the Trojans the rage of war would fall,
If you are slain; for ’mid them you are the greatest bane.”
Thus he and, after shaking, sent his long spear amain,
And the middle of the buckler of Peleus’ son engaged. 290
Far from the shield the javelin was flung; but Hektor
raged
Because the rapid missile in vain fled from his hand;
He stood with downcast visage, nor ashen javelin spanned.
Deiphobos, white-shielded, he called with mighty cry,
And asked him for long javelin; but he was nowhere
nigh. 295
Then Hektor knew in spirit, and said with bated breath:
“Ye gods, ’t is firmly fated the gods call me to death.
For, sooth, I thought that hero Deiphobos near would be;
Yet he is in the rampart, and Athena cheated me.
Now evil death is near me, nor is it far away, 300
Nor can it be avoided, since this for many a day
Was dear to Zeus and Phoebus, his son, who willingly
Before this time defended; now Fate has come to me.
Yet not without great glory, nor basely will I go,
But will high deeds accomplish which coming men shall
know.” 305
Thus now, when he had spoken, he drew his trenchant
blade,
LOOK XXII 469

Which, mighty and all-valid, was by his loins displayed.

He rushed with strength collected, like eagle flying high,

Who sweeps down to the prairie from dark clouds of the sky

To seize a tender lambkin or hare by terror stirred; 310

Thus Hektor brave rushed onward and shook his tien-
chant sword.

Achilles, too, rushed forward, fierce strength his spirit
thrilled.

He held before his bosom his beauteous, dedal shield,

And nodded with bright helmet, round which four cones
were rolled;

And round about were shaken the beauteous crests of
gold, 315

Which Vulcan thickly gathered around the summit bright.

And as the star of Hesper goes ’mid the stars of night

Untimely, which in heaven stands forth the fairest star;

Thus the sharp spear-point glittered which Achilles shook
afar

In his right hand, devising evil for Hektor divine, 320

Gazing on his fair body, so best the wound to join.

Yet well the fair brass armour was o’er his body dight,—

The armour which he ravished when he slew Patroklos’
might.

But there appeared where shoulders and collar-bone con-
trol

The neck, a place for quickest destruction to the soul. 325

There, while he rushed on fiercely, divine Achilles flung

His javelin, and the spear-point sheer through the soft
neck sprung.

The ash-spear, brazen-heavy, cut not the voice away,

So that he yet, replying, some answering words might say.

He fell in dust; Achilles, boasting above him, said: 330

“ Perhaps you thought, O Hektor, spoiling Patroklos

dead,

You would be saved, nor feared me, since I was far away.

Fool!—By the hollow vessels, though distant from the
fray,

I yet was left behind him, an avenger better far,

Who now have loosed your members; you dogs and birds

of air 335
470 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Shall tear with foul dishonour; the Achaians will deck
his urn.”

Helm-glancing Hektor, fainting, to him replied in turn:
“By your life and knees and parents, I pray with suppliant

lips:
Let not the dogs Achaian devour me by the ships.
You shall sufficient ransom of gold and brass receive, 340
Which you my honoured mother and father old will give,
But send my body homeward that the funeral pyre be
spread,
And the Trojans and their consorts may honour me when
dead.”

But, gazing on him grimly, foot-swift Achilles said:
“Dog!—do not supplicate me by parents or by knees. 345
Would that my strength and spirit incited me to seize
Your raw flesh and devour it; such thing on me you led;
So there is no one living to ward dogs from your head;

Not if they brought a ransom and here before me set

(Tenfold or twenty, measured), and offered others yet;350

And not if Dardan Priam should pay your weight in gold,

Not thus would your high mother on funeral couches hold,

And bend, lamenting, o’er you whom she herself has

borne;

Yet you by dogs and vultures shall be entirely torn.”

Helm-glancing Hektor, dying, to him in answer

said: 355
“Sooth, knowing you, I knew well that I could not per-
suade;

An iron soul you harbour within your bosom dire.
Think now if I become not source of the godheads’ ire
That day Apollo Phoebus and Paris bear you fate
(Though you are strong and valiant) before the Skaian
ate.” 360
And, while he thus was speaking, the end of death
o’er-spread;
The soul flew from his members and down to Hades fled,
Its destiny lamenting, from youth and vigour borne.
But there divine Achilles addressed the dead in turn:
“Die you; and I will promptly receive the Keres

dire, 365
BOOK XXII 47l

Whene’er the gods immortal and Zeus my end desire.”
Thus he, and from the body the brazen javelin bore.
Then laid it down beside him and from the shoulders tore
The bloody arms; and the other Achaians’ sons ran round
And wondered at the stature and form great and

renowned 370
Of Hektor; none stood by who gave him not a wound.
Thus one such words would utter, gazing on another near:
“Ye gods, it is far easier to deal with Hektor here
Than when he burned the vessels with. brightly-burning

flame.”
Thus would he say and, nearing the corpse, would mar
and maim. 375

But when divine swift-footed Achilles spoiled the dead,
He stood among the Achaians and wingéd words con-
veyed:

“O friends, ye Argive leaders and every prince of clan,
Since now the gods have granted me to subdue this man,
Who wrought us many evils, and more than all the

rest;— 380
But come, around the city let us with arms contest,
Till we find out the spirit the other Trojans hold:
Whether they leave the fortress when he is fallen and cold,
Or if they burn to meet us when Hektor is no more.
Yet wherefore does. my spirit such things as these ex-
plore? 385
A corpse lies by the vessels, unburied and unwept,
Patroklos, unforgotten by me, while I am kept
Alive among the living, and while my knees are moved.
But if in Hades others forget the dead they loved,
Yet I my dear companion will hold in memory there. 390
Come now, and, singing peans, youths of th’ Achaians,
fare
We to the hollow vessels and Hektor’s body bear.
For we have won great glory by slaying Hektor brave,
Whom, like a god, the Trojans, through the city, honour

ave.”
Thus he, and foul dishonour to Hektor great de-
signed, ‘ 395

And pierced both of the tendons of both his feet, behind,
472 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

From heel up to the ankle, and strap of ox-hide bound,
And fastened to the chariot to drag the head aground;
Then went upon the chariot, in it the arms he threw

And scourged the horses onward; they, not unwilling,

flew, 400
Dust rose while he* was dragging; his azure hair was
thrust

Around him on the prairie; the whole head lay in dust,

Graceful before; Zeus Father gave to the hostile band

To treat him with dishonour in his own fatherland.

The head was thus polluted by dust; his mother tore 405

Her hair now, and cast from her the splendid veil she
wore,

And wailed with dire lamenting as she looked on her
child.

His father groaned in sorrow; the folk around made wild

Lament and ululation throughout the city withal;

Thus it had most resemblance to what would be if all 410

Of lofty Troy were blazing from topmost hight with fire.

The people hardly held back the old man, torn by ire

And pain, who sought in frenzy to pass the Dardan wall;

And, while in filth he groveled, he supplicated all,

Each by his own name calling and naming each with

roan: 415
“ Hold, friends; though grieving sorely, yet suffer me
alone

To go forth from the city, to th’ Achaians’ ships to go,
To supplicate this hero pernicious, working woe,
That he my age may reverence, or pity my old age.
For even now, his father has reached an equal stage, 420
Peleus, who got and bred him to be the Trojans’ bane;
But most of all he wrought me transcendent grief and pain.
So many of my children in blooming youth he killed.
Not so did I lament all, though pain and sorrow thrilled.
As this, for whom sharp anguish will bear to Hades’
bands, 425
Hektor; would he had perished at home within my hands.
Thus both of us were sated by tears and sorrow sore,
Myself and his dear mother, ill-fated one who bore.”

*Hektor.
BOOK XXII 473

Thus spoke he in his weeping; the people’s groans were
blent.
But, ’mid the women, Hekuba began her long lament: 430
“My son, why should I, wretched, suffering dire dis-
array,
Live now since you have perished? Who for me night
and day
Was glory though the city, a benefit bestowed
To all Trojans and their consorts, who honoured you like
god.
For while you yet were living you were a glory great 435
To them; but now are victim of sable death and fate.”
Thus spoke she in her weeping; but Hektor’s wife knew
naught,
For no trustworthy messenger had tidings to her brought
That her husband was yet staying without the city’s walls.
Thus she a web was weaving in the depths of her high
halls: 440
A double vest of purple with works of pictured grace.
She bade her well-haired maidens within the domes to
place
On fire a mighty tripod, that there already dight
Warm baths should be for Hektor when he returned from
fight.
The foolish one! who knew not that baths for him were
vain,
Since fiery-eyed Athena by Achilles’ hands had slain.
From the tower she heard the wailing and the shriek of
pain go forth,
And her members shook with terror, and the shuttle fell
to earth.
She to her well-haired maidens at once her words begun:
“Come here; let two maids follow; I would see what
deeds are done. 450
My honoured mother’s accents I heard; and in my breast
To my mouth my heart uprises; my knees are sore op-
pressed.
Sooth, to the sons of Priam some evil must be near.
Ah, were the words unspoken!—Yet very much I fear
That now divine Achilles has from the city riven, 455
474 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Alone, audacious Hektor, and to the prairie driven,

And made him from that fatal, destructive mood abstain,

Which held him; since he never stayed in the crowd of
men,

But aye ran much before them, yielding in strength to
none.”

Thus saying, she, like mainad, from the high palace

run, : 60

Striking upon her bosom; her maids went with the dame.

But when to the high turret and crowd of men she came,

She stood upon the rampart and looked around and knew

Him, dragged before the city. The rapid coursers
drew

Him to the hollow vessels of th’ Achaians with despite; 465

Then settled o’er her eyelids the shades of densest night,

And she fell backward, helpless, and breathed her spirit
forth.

Afar her splendid headdress fell from her head to earth,

The garland and the network, the twisted head-band fair,

The veil which golden Venus herself had given her 470

That day helm-glancing Hektor led to the bridal bower

From great Eetion’s palace, and gave a priceless dower.

And round her many sisters and sisters-in-law stood by,

Who held her in her stupour, as if she were to die.

When she revived a little, and life her spirit fed, 475

She sobbed with frenzied pauses and, ’mid the women,
said:

“ Hektor, and 1 unhappy!—Both born with but one

fate:

You born in lofty Troja, in Priam’s domes elate;

But I in sacred Thebe, ’neath Plakos’ woody wall,

In the palace of Eetion, who nurtured me when small,--480

I)l-fated by ill-fated; would that I ne’er had birth!—

Now you to Hades’ mansions, beneath the folds of earth,

Will go, and you will leave me by hated grief beset,—

A widow in your dwelling; your son, an infant yet,

Whom you and I, ill-fated, gave life. Nor will accrue 485

Your aid to him, O Hektor, when dead; nor his to you.

For if th’ Achaians’ warring, of many tears, he flee,

To him e’er after labour and heavy cares will be.
BOOK XXII 475

For otherswilldeprive him of fields by landmarks changed.
His orphaned days will render from other youths es-
tranged; 490
He goes with look dejected, the tear his cheek descends.—
In want the hapless orphan goes to his father’s friends,
And pulls one by the tunic, another’s cloak takes up;
And someone of them, pitying, may give a little cup.
His lips by it are moistened, his palate does not taste, 495
For a child with living parents will drive him from the

feast,

While with his hands he strikes him and whelms him with
abuse:

‘Begone, O wretch!—Your father shares not the feast with
us.’

Then tearfully the orphan to his widowed mother flees,

Astyanax, who erstwhile upon his father’s knees 500

Ate as if but of marrow and the rich fat of sheep.

And when he ceased his playing, o’ercome by dulcet sleep,
He slept on well-wrought couches or in a nurse’s arms
And in a bed most yielding, and his heart was filled with

charms.
Now will he suffer evil, wanting his father dear, 50K
Astyanax, whom the Trojans named with this surname
clear;

For you* alone defended the gates and lofty walls.—

Now by the curve-bowed vessels, far from your parents’
calls,

The writhing worms will eat you, when the dogs you sat-
isfy,

Naked; bee still your garments in the palaces will lie, 510

Fine and of grace surpassing, well-wrought by women’s
hands.

But, truly, I will burn them amid fire’s glowing brands,

Since they will profit nothing, nor you in them will lie,

Yet let them with the Trojans your memory glorify.”

Thus spoke she in her weeping, while mourned the

women nigh. 515

*Hektor.
476 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

BOOK XXIII.

THE GAMES IN HONOUR OF PATROKLOS.

Thus they mourned throughout the city; but when th’
Achaian band
Had come upon the vessels and Hellespontos’ strand,
Each went to his own vessel, dispersing o’er the land.
But Achilles did not suffer the Myrmidons to go,
Yet said to his companions, who loved the battle’s glow: 5
“Ye swift-horsed Myrmidonians, companions dear to
me,
Let us not from the chariots the whole-hoofed horses
free,
But with the very horses and chariots nearer tread,
Lamenting for Patroklos; for ’t is honour for the dead.
But when we are well sated with lamentation drear, 10
We all will loose our horses and take our supper here.”
Thus he; and all together mourned, and Achilles led.
They drove their well-maned horses three times around
the dead
In grief; and ’mid them Thetis desire for weeping set.
The sands were wet beneath them, and the arms of men
were wet 15
With tears, desiring sorely so great a lord of fear.
Among them, then, Pelides began the mourning drear,
Upon his comrade’s bosom placing his slaughtering hands:
“ Hail from me, O Patroklos, e’en though in Hades’

bands,
For I shall now accomplish what I pledged you ere this
hour: 20

I have dragged great Hektor hither to give dogs to devour,
And twelve high sons of Trojans to slay before your pyre,
Since your untimely slaughter has roused in me such ire.”
Thus he, and planned for Hektor deeds full of shame
and fear
While prone in dust extended before Patroklos’ bier. 25
Then each among the heroes took off his warlike weeds,
BOOK XXIII 477

Brazen and glittering brightly, and loosed his echoing
steeds,

And sat down by the vessel of Aiakides foot-fleet,

Ten thousand; but he gave them abundant funeral meat.

And many snowy oxen the iron spread around, 30

Slaughtered; and sheep full many and bleating goats
were found;

And many swine well-fattened, with tusks like shining
snow,

Were eee while they were roasted above Hephaistos’
glow;

And all around the body abundant blood was shed.

But the lords of the Achaians fleet King Achilles led 35
Before King Agamemnon, persuading him with pain,
Since his heart was filled with anger for his companion

slain.
But when they to the quarters of Agamemnon came,
At once he* bade the heralds, clear-voiced, place on the
flame
A great and beauteous tripod; so, by entreaty sore, 40
He might persuade Pelides to wash away the gore.
But he refused him strongly and swore an oath withal:

“No, not by Zeus, the highest and strongest god of all;
It is by no means lawful that near my head should come
Baths, ere I place Patroklos on pyre and pile a tomb, 45
And shear my hair; since never again will come such pain,
My sentient heart to torture, while I in life remain.

Now ‘to the hated banquet let us be borne again;

But urge them on the morning, Agamemnon, king of men,

To bring wood to have with us, as suitable and right 50

For corpse which has to pass through the gloomy shade of
night,

Till fan oar eyes all swiftly the tireless flame shall burn

The corpse, and all the people to wonted work return.”

Thus he; and with approval they heard him and obeyed

And gladly each one feasted on the supper when ar-
rayed,

And naught the soul found wanting after the equal feast,

But when desire for eating and drink among them ceased,

*Agamemnon.
478 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Each one went to his quarters to find sleep’s lethargy.
But Pelides on the shore of the many-sounding sea

Lay with tumultuous groaning with many a Myrmidon, 60

On clear spot where the billows washed the sea-coast as
they run.

Then sweet sleep seized upon him, loosing his spirit’s care,

Was gently poured about him; for much his members fair

Were tired by chasing Hektor by wind-swept Ilion.

Then came to him the spirit of Menoitios’ wretched
son, 65

Resembling him entirely in bulk and eyes all-fair,

And voice, and such the garments which on his form he
bare;

Above the head it hovered, bespoke him earnestly:

“ Do you sleep here, Achilles, without a thought of me?

You cared for me while living, but, dead, leave to the
fates; 70

Yet bury me most quickly that I pass Hades’ gates.

The spirits keep me distant, the shadows of the dead

Do not let me pass the river that I with them may tread;

So thus I wander widely through Dis’ wide-gated dome.

But give your hand, I pray you, for not againI come 75

From Hades’ ample mansions when you have given to fire.

No more shall we in counsel from our dear friends retire.

A hated fate has seized me, on me at birth bestowed;

To you, too, fate is given, Achilles like a god,

To die beneath the ramparts of the well-born Trojans
near. 80

Another thing I tell you, and bid you, if you hear:

Let not my bones, Achilles, apart from yours be placed;

But justas in your mansions our childish days were traced,

When Menoitios from Opuns led me while I was small,

A guest within your mansions for murder tragical, 85

That day when I in folly Amphidamas’ son slew,

Not wishing, but in anger about the dice we threw.

Then horseman Peleus took me within his palace famed,

And nurtured me with kindness, and your attendant
named.

Thus let our bones be covered in but one place and
grave, go
BOOK XXIII 479

In golden urn, the present your honoured mother gave.’
Then swift-of-foot Achilles to him in answer said:
“ Why a my honoured comrade, have you thus hither
sped,
And, of these several mandates, each one upon me lay?
But all I will accomplish and, as you wish, ‘obey. 95
Yet come now, and stand nearer, that so we may embrace
Each other, though but little, and this dire woe efface.”
Thus, with his hands extended, divine Achilles spoke,
But grasped not; and the spirit beneath the earth, like
smoke,
With gibbering descended. Amazed, Achillesrose 100
And clapped his hands together and spoke this speech of
woes:
“Ye gods, it then is certain there is in Hades’ hall
A certain soul and image; but body, not at all.
For, all night long the spirit of poor Patroklos stood
Beside me and lamented and grieved with grief re-
_ newed, 105
And gave me a special order; and was like him withal.”
Thus spoke he, and incited desire to mourn in all;
And rosy-fingered Morning shone o’er them pale and sad
Around the wretched body.—But Agamemnon bade
That men and mules in number should bring together
wood; 110
They came from all the quarters, and most, a hero good,
Meriones, the servant of bold Idomeneus.
Thus, they went forward, holding axes for sylvan use,
And cords and ropes well-twisted; the mules went on

before;
And over hill and valley, and straight and cross they”
bore. 115

But when they reached the forests of many-fountained Ide,

They cut thehigh-leaved oak-trees with brass of edges wide,

Hastening in their labour; these fell with crash profound;

Then the Achaians split them and all securely bound

Upon the mules, who measured with eager feet the
ground, 120

Wishing to reach the prairie through thickets stiff and
close.
480 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And all the choppers carried poles, for commanded thus
Meriones, the servant of bold Idomeneus.
They cast this all in order upon the Ocean’s strand,
Where Achilles for Patroklos and himself a great tomb
planned. 125
But when in all directions the boundless wood was laid,
They sat in throngs expectant; but Achilles quickly bade
The warlike Myrmidonians to gird their brazen weeds,
And each one to his chariot to yoke his rapid steeds.
And they arose all eager and put on arms of war; 130
And charioteer and warrior ascended to his car.
A cloud of foot came after, ten thousand, and, before
Were horsemen; in the middle his friends Patroklos bore.
They covered all the body with hair which they resigned,
Shorn off; divine Achilles held up the head behind;— 135
Grieved for hisblameless comrade he sent to Hades’ home.
But when they reached the station Achilles chose for
tomb,
Then fleet divine Achilles thought of another care
And, from the pyre disparted, shore off his yellow hair
(Which he for River Spercheios nurtured in splendour
free), 140
And said with moan while gazing upon the wine-dark sea:
“Spercheios, my father Peleus his vow all vainly
planned
For me, when I came homeward to my dear fatherland,
To shear for you my hair and make sacred hecatomb,
And offer fifty wethers beside the fountains’ spume, 145
Where are your fragrant altar and field luxuriant.
Thus to you vowed the ancient, whose wish you did not
grant.
But now, since I return not to my dear fatherland,
I give my hair for hero Patroklos to command.”
Thus saying, he placed the hair in his dear compan-
ion’s hand, 150
And in them all excited desire for weeping yet.—
And now the light of Helios, while yet they mourned,
had set,
Had not Achilles quickly said to Agamemnon near:
“ Atrides (for your bidding th’ Achaian people hear
BOOK XXIII 481

Most gladly), there’s sufficient of weeping and despair. 155
Now from the pyre dismiss them, and bid at once prepare
Their supper. We will care for the things the dead needs
most;
But let remain among us the leaders of the host.”
Whennow King Agamemnon heard this fall from his lips,
He soon dismissed the people among the equal ships. 160
The carers for the funeral remained and piled the wood,
And made a pyre a hundred feet long, a hundred broad,
And placed upon the summit the dead, with sorrow deep.—
And trail-foot, curve-horned oxen and many fattened

sheep
Before the pyre they cut up, when skinned; and from
them all 165

Great-souled Achilles took out the fat and veiled withal,
From head to foot, the body, and placed the bodies flayed
Around, and jars of honey and jars of oil arrayed,
Above the bier inclining; then on the pyre he threw,
Quickly, four high-necked horses, and sighed and groaned
anew. 170
By King Patroklos’ table there were nine dogs erewhile,
And two of these he slaughtered and cast upon the pile.
And twelve sons good and strenuous of the Trojans
mighty-souled
With trenchant brass he slaughtered; in mind ill deeds
he rolled;
Then sent, that it might batten, the iron strength of
flame, 175
And groaned aloud and called on his cherished friend by
name:
“Hail, O my friend Patroklos, e’en though in Hades’
hall!
For what I promised erstwhile, I now perform in all.
For you the fire shall batten on twelve sons militant
Of the mighty-minded Trojans; but nowise will I
ant 180
That fire shall fed on Hektor, but rather dogs full grim.”
Thus spoke he with dire menace, but the dogs toiled
not with him.*

*Hektor.
482 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

For Jove’s child, Aphrodité, made all the dogs recoil,
Both day and night, anointing with ambrosial, rosy oil;
So that he should not mangle when he dragged forth the
dead. 185
O’er him a cloud of darkness Phoebus Apollo led
From heaven down to the prairie, and o’er the whole place
spread
(Whate’er the body covered), so that bright Helios’ force
Might notdry nerves and members together with the corse.
The pyre of dead Patroklos as yet they kindled not, 190
. For fleet divine Achilles again had further thought:
Since, from the pyre disparted, he prayed to two winds
there,
To Boreas and Zephyr, and promised offerings fair
And, pouring many libations from golden cup, he prayed
To come, that very quickly the flame might burn the

dead, 195

That the wood should soon be kindled. Then rapid Iris
sped,

Hearing the vows, a messenger, that she the winds might
call.—

She found them all together in strong-breathed Zephyr’s
hall,

A banquet celebrating; but Iris, running, held
Upon the stony threshold. When they with eyes be-
held, 200
All rose in haste to greet her; and called her everyone.
But she would not be seated, and thus her speech begun:
“ No seat for me, since t’? Ocean’s wide currents I return,
To the Aithiopians’ country, where hecatombs they burn
To the immortal godheads, that I share the offering. 205
But Achilles prays to Boreas and Zephyr thundering
To come, and makes a promise of beauteous sacrifice,
If they the pyre enkindle whereon Patroklos lies;
For whom all the Achaians lament with heavy woes.”
Thus speaking, she departed; but they at once arose 210
With an enormous tumult and drove on clouds before.
With blast they reached the Ocean; the billows rolled
ashore
Beneath their breath sonorous; to fertile Troy they came
BOOK XXIII 483

And fell upon the death-pyre, and loudly roared bright

flame.
And all night long, together, they fanned the fire’s lame
bright, 215
Blowing with shrill-voiced breathings. Fleet Achilles all
the night,

Taking a double beaker, upon the earth poured wine,

Drawing from golden crater, and wet the earth divine,

And called upon the spirit of poor Patroklos gone;

Thus father sorrows, burning the bones of his own son, 220

Just wed, who his poor parents by death gives griefs and
moans;

Thus Achilles sorrowed, burning his dear companion’s
bones,

Groveling beside the death-pyre and groaning ceaseless
groans.

But when the star proclaiming the light came over

earth,

Behind whom saffron-vested Aurora wanders forth 225

Upon the sea, then withered the pyre and ceased the flame.

Again the winds departed, to go back whence they came,

Across the Thrakian Ocean, which groaned and rolled
waves dire.—

On the other hand, Achilles, when parted from the pyre,

Reclined by toil exhausted; and sweet sleep o’er him
spread.— 230

But those around Atrides in thronging numbers sped;

And him* the noise and tumult of those approaching woke,

And he was seated upright and to the concourse spoke:

“ Atrides and ye leaders of all th’ Achaian train,

First with bright wine extinguish all of the pyre amain, 235

As much as are those portions which strength of fire retain.

Then let us take the bones of dead Menoitiades,

Collecting with good judgment (for they’ll be known with
ease,

Since they lie near the center; the others without the corse

Burned at the edges mingled—the men and eke the
horse). 240

Then put we in gold vessel, enwrapped with double caul,

* Achilles.
484 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Till I myself am hidden in Hades’ gloomy hall.
Then I would have you fashion a tomb, not very large,
But such as is beseeming; yet afterwards, I charge
You, make it broad and lofty, Achaians who yet stay 245
In the ships of many benches, when I have passed away.”
Thus he; and they gave heed to Peleus’ fleet son divine.
They first extinguished wholly the pyre with sparkling
wine,
As much as flame had seized on; and the deep ashes fell.—
While weeping, the white bones of his comrade lovable 250
They gathered in gold vessel and in a double caul
And, placing in the quarters, veiled well in soft flax pall.
They marked a circling barrow, and its foundations laid
Around the pyre; and quickly a mound of earth arrayed.
But when they’d heaped the barrow and had returned
again, 255
Achilles stayed the people and seated on the plain
In circle wide, and prizes out of the vessels led:
Cauldrons and tripods, horses and mules, and many a head
Of oxen, well-zoned women, and iron shining hoar.
First, for the rapid horsemen a splendid prize he
bore: 260
A woman to be taken (faultless, who labours knew),
With her, a well-eared tripod of measures twenty-two,
By the first; and for the second, he placed a mare of full
Six years, as yet unbroken and pregnant with a mule;
But for the third, a tripod untouched by fire he laid, 265
Fair, holding four good measures, and white, for newly
made;
And for the fourth, two talents of gold, he placed for stake;
The fifth a double vessel, untouched by fire, would take.
He stood amid th’ Achaians and spoke in accents clear:
“ Atrides and ye other well-greaved Achaians here, 270
The prizes for car-drivers upon th’ arena lie.
But if, now, we Achaians for another man should try,
I’d take the highest prizes and to my tent bear hence.
You know how much my horses surpass in excellence,
For they both are immortal; and Neptune gave the
twain 275
To my Father, hero Peleus, who gave to me again.
BOOK XXIII 485

But my entire-hoofed horses and I will tarry here,

For they have lost the glory of such a charioteer,

Gentle, who very often poured moist oil o’er their mane,
And washed them with clear water. Both stand and

grieve in pain; 280
Their manes to earth are hanging; both stand grieved at
the heart.

But let throughout the army the other heroes start:
Th’ Achaians who of horses and well-joined cars dispose.”
Thus spoke the son of Peleus; the rapid horsemen rose.

But king of men Eumelos rose first of all by far-— 285

The dear son of Admetos, well-skilled in driving car.

Next him rose strong Tydides Diomedes, who ’neath yoke

Led on the Trojan horses he from Hneas took;

Apollo saved the hero, Aineas himself, from foes.

Then, next to him Atrides, blonde Menelaos, rose, 290

Zeus-born, who led swift horses beneath the yoke all fair:

Hisown Podargos and Aithé, who was Agamemnon’s mare.

Who was given Agamemnon by great Anchises’ son,

Echepolos, for not going to wind-swept Ilion,

That he might stay rejoicing; since Zeus gave to his
hand 295

Great riches; and he dwelt in Sikyon’s wide-spreading
land;

Thus ’neath the yoke he led her, who much the course
desired.

Antilochos, the fourth one, his well-named coursers tired

(The noble son of Nestor, the king of mighty mind,

Who was the son of Neleus); and steeds of Pylian kind,300

Fleet-footed, bore his chariot. His father near him drew,

And gave him useful counsel, though he was prudent, too:

“ Antilochos, Posidon and Zeus loved you, though

young,
And taught to you all things that to horsemanship belong.
Thus it is little needful to tell you as to these, 305

For well you know to circle around the boundaries.

Yet your steeds are slow in running; this is your bale,
T trow,

Since their coursers are the fleeter; but your rivals do not
know
486 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

More than yourself to counsel and use their thoughts with
skill.

But come, dear one, your spirit with all invention fill, 310

Lest you lose the prizes given to the victors in the course.—

The chopper is far better who uses skill, not force.

By skill, again, the helmsman upon the wine-dark sea

Directs the rapid vessel, though tost by tempests free;

The charioteer surpasses by skill the charioteer. 315

Yet, he who puts reliance in cars and coursers here,

Turns them with all imprudence full widely here and
there;

The horses wander, racing, nor does he hold them fair.

But he who sees advantage, though with inferior steeds,

Looks ever to the limit, turns near and closely heeds, 320

How he, the first, by pulling on ox-hide reins may turn.

He holds his car, while watching the man before him
borne.

You'll see the goal I’ll show you, for it is lightly found:

A dry wood pale, a cubit it stands above the ground;

*T is oak or larch, not rotted by rain’s descending tide. 325

There two white stones are lying, one placed on either side,

Where the roadway narrows slightly, and the course is
smoothly spread.

Either it is the monument of a mortal long since dead,

Ora bourne which had been placed there in times of former
men,

And fleet divine Achilles has made a goal again. 330

But drive on very near it with car and horses fleet,

And lean a little leftward in the well-joined chariot-seat,

And call to the right courser, and goad and give him rein.

But drive the left-hand courser close to the goal aplain,

So that the jointed wheel’s nave appear to touch the
block. 335

Yet take good care of striking the wheel upon the rock,

Lest you the horses injure and wreck the car apace,

And be a joy to others, and to yourself, disgrace.

Yet, my beloved, consider how you all this may fly.

For if beside the limits you pass your rivals by, 340

There is none who can pass you or who can e’en o’ertake,

Not if divine Arion he drove on in your wake
BOOK XXIII 487

The fleet horse of Adrastos, whose race was from a god,
Or proud Laomedon’s horses, bred here and fit to laud.”

Thus spoke Neleian Nestor and took again his seat, 345
When he had well expounded to his son what was most

meet.

Meriones, the fifth one, prepared his steeds well-maned.
Then all went on their chariots and cast the lots ordained.
Achilles shook the helmet; out leapt Antilochos’ lot,

And, after his, was chosen that King Eumelos brought; 350
Atrides Menelaos, famed with the spear, next won;

And after him Meriones was marked by lot to run;

By far the best, Tydides, chanced for the latest turn.—
They stood arrayed in order; Achilles showed the bourne
Far on the level prairie; and near, as umpire, stood 355
His father’s armour-bearer, old Phoinix, like a god,
That he might watch the races and tell the truth at need.

Then all of them together raised whip above his steed,

And struck with reins, exhorting them with their words
amain.
And swiftly from the vessels they ran along the plain 360
With speed; the dust arising stood up beneath the breast,
Like a dense cloud in semblance or whirlwind manifest;
Their manes diffusedly floated onthe breathing of the wind.
Sometimes, in truth, their chariots on the fertile earth
declined,
At others bounded o’er it; the chariot-drivers stood 365
Upon their cars; and shaken was each of them in mood,
Desiring much the conquest; each urged his steeds amain,
Who, clouds of dust exciting, flew swiftly o’er the plain.
Yet when now, for the last time, the fleet steeds swept
the course
Back to the hoary ocean, the strength of every horse 370
Appeared, and soon was tested his speed; and swiftly bore
The fleet mares of Eumelos their master to the shore.
Diomed’s male Trojan horses came swiftly in their rear;
They were not very distant, but they were very near,
And warmed with breath Eumelos’ back and his shoulders
wide, 375
For they flew close behind him and their heads to him ap-
plied.
488 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Now he, in truth, were passed by or doubtful prize had
won,

Had not Apollo Phoebus been wroth with Tydeus’ son,

And struck the whip resplendent out of his hands ab-

horred.
The eyes of him, who angered, abundant tear-drops
poured, 380

Because he saw them going faster upon the road,

And his own coursers slackened, running without a goad.

Yet not unknown t’ Athena Apollo made the stroke

To Tydides; very swiftly the pastor of the folk

She sought, the scourge she gave him and lent his horses
force. 385

Then went against Eumelos in fleet and angry course;

His horses’ yoke she shattered; both of the mares ran
forth

On each side of the roadway; the pole fell to the earth.

Eumelos from the car-seat beside the wheel was borne;

His mouth and nose and elbow were badly gashed and

torn; 390
His forehead o’er the eyebrows was bruised, and both his
eyes

Were filled with tears; his liquid voice stayed its energies.
Tydides turned around him and his whole-hoofed horses
drave,
Flying far before the others; for there Athena gave
Great vigour to the coursers, and to himself high fame. 395
Close after him Atrides, blonde Menelaos, came.
Antilochos exhorted onward his father’s horse:
“Speed on, you two, endeavour to make your swiftest
course.
In truth, I do not bid you to strive with these in aught:
‘The steeds of bold Tydides towhom now Pallas brought 400
The present of great swiftness, and fame to him assigned.
But reach Atrides’ horses quickly, nor drag behind;
Nor let the female Aithé’s reproaches be expressed:
“Why are you thus deficient, O steeds who are the best ?’
For this I tell you plainly, which will fulfilment bear: 405
Nestor, the people’s pastor no more will give you care,
But both you horses quickly with trenchant brass-will slay,
BOOK XXIII 489

If by your being sluggish we bear worse prize away.
This I myself will manage and watch how it may be
In the narrow road to pass him; nor shall it ’scape from

me.” 410
Thus he; and they in fear of their master’s threatening
run

A little time much faster; but after, very soon,
Antilochos, strong in battle, saw the narrow hollow road:
*T was where the earth was fissured where a wintry stream

had flowed
And rent part of the roadway and hollowed all the
place; 415

There Menelaos drove on, shunning the wheel’s embrace.
But Antilochos turned near him, and the whole-hoofed
steeds impelled
Without the way, and, turning a little, onward held.
But Atreus’ son was fearful and to Antilochos cried:
“ Antilochos, you drive rashly, yet your steeds with
prudence guide;— 420
For narrow is the roadway; soon ’t will be wider far,—
Lest both of us you injure by striking on my car.”
Thus spoke he; but Antilochos drove on, and faster far,
And urged his steeds by scourging, like one who does not
hear.
As far as from the shoulder the cast of quoit goes clear,
When flung by stalwart hero, who tests his youthful
strength;
So far abreast they ran on; but Atrides’ mares at length
Fell back; for he was willing at slower speed to ride,
Lest the entire-hoofed horses should in the way collide
And overturn the chariots well-joined; and they should
fall 430
In dust while thus contending for victory with brawl.
To him with loud reproaches blonde Menelaos said:
“« Antilochos, no mortal viler than you was bred.
Begone!—For most untruly we Achaians called you wise.
Yet not without oath given shall you bear off the

”

prize. 435
Thus saying, he cheered his horses and spoke to them

apart:
490 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

“Do not be thus prevented, nor stop, though grieved at
heart.

The feet and knees of such ones will tire before your own;

From both of them already the strength of youth has

gone.”
Thus he; the exhortation of their lord they heard with
fear, 440

And ran on ever faster, and quickly came anear.
The Argives, who were sitting assembled, saw again
The horses who were flying in dust upon the plain.
And first the Kretan leader, Idomeneus, knew them all,
For he sat without the circus upon a watch-tower tall. 445
He knew the first, though distant, hearing his shouts ex-
pressed,
And knew the stately courser who ran before the rest,
Who, for the rest, was chestunt, but in his forehead shone
A white spot shining brightly and round as the full moon.
He rose up ’mid the Argives and with this speech ad-
dressed: 450
“O friends, ye Argive leaders and rulers manifest,
Do J alone the horses, or do you, also, see?
Yet other steeds seem foremost, as they appear to me;
There seems another driver; those mares, which heretofore
Were best of all in racing, aplain seem injured sore. 455
For, sooth, I saw them turning the first around the goal,
But now'I see no longer; though everywhere I roll
My eyes about the prairie of Troy that I may see.
Truly the reins escaped from the charioteer, and he
Could not turn well the limit, nor turned it happily. 460
I think that there he fell out, and also, broke his car;
And, when fear seized their senses, the two mares fled afar.
Yet rise and look upon him; for well I cannot trace.
He seems to me the hero, Aitolian by race,
Who rules among the Argives—the powerful Diomed.”465
Then swift Oilean Ajax at him reproaches sped:
“‘ Tdomeneus, why babble ere you just age attain?
These lofty-stepping horses run far o’er ample plain.
Nor are you thus the youngest of all the Argive train,
Nor do your eyes look sharpest of all out of your head; 470
Yet aye you babble stories. Nor is there any need
BOOK XXIII 491

For you to be a prater; since better men are here.
Eumelos’ mares, as ever, run first in the career;
Himself, the guide-reins holding, advances to the bourne.”
To him the Kretan leader, in anger, spoke in turn: 475
“ Ajax, best in reproaches, reviler, for the rest,
You’re least of all the Argives, for your mind is harsh and
stressed.
Come now, let us a tripod or cauldron lay for stake.
Atrides Agamemnon let us for umpire take,
To judge which steeds are foremost; that, paying, you
may learn.” 480
Thus he; and rapid Ajax, Oilean, in his turn,
In anger, rose to answer the King with speeches hard.
And, truly, now the quarrel had greater passion stirred
Had not himself, Achilles, stood up and said the word:
“No longer thus make answer with words hard and
extreme, 485
Idomeneus and Ajax; since they do not beseem.
You both would blame another who would perform such
deeds;
Yet sit down in the circus and look upon the steeds;
And they themselves, who swiftly press on to victory,
Will soon come on before us; then everyone will see 490
The horses of the Argives which first, which in the rear.”
Thus spoke he; and Tydides in race came very near,
And ever.struck the shoulders with whip; and sprang on
high
The lightly running coursers, reaching the limit nigh.
And ever dust-drops spattered the charioteer within; 495
And rolled with speed the chariot (adorned with gold and
tin)
Close to the rapid horses; nor were the tires well traced
In the soft dust behind them; but they flew on in haste.
He stopped in middle circus; and copious.sweat flowed
forth
From both the panting horses and their necks and chests
to earth. 500
Himself at once leapt earthward from the chariot shining
fair,
On yoke his whip reclining. Nor was neglectful there
492 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Sthenelos great and mighty, yet quickly seized the prize,
And gave to his companions the woman with bright eyes;
With her, the well-eared tripod; and loosed the horses
trim. 505
Antilochos Neleian drove his coursers after him,
Outstripping Menelaos by wile, not swiftness sheer;
Yet, e’en thus, Menelaos the rapid steeds drove near.
He was at such a distance as wheel is from a horse
Who draws his car and master, stretching aplain his
course. 510
The tail hairs which are longest upon the tire just touch,
And it rolls very near him; and there is nowise much
Of space between when running o’er a great breadth of
plain;—
So great was now the distance which lay between the
twain,
Though they at first were parted by quoit’s full cast at
least. 515
He overtook him quickly, for the vigour was increased
In the mare of Agamemnon, good Aithé with fair mane.
Bu: if a longer race-course before them both had lain,
He certainly had passed by, nor left things dubious.
But Merion, the servant of brave Idomeneus, 520
By famous Menelaos was left a cast of spear,
For both his fair-maned horses were slowest in career,
And he himself least skillful as racing charioteer.
The offspring of Admetos behind the others bore,
Dragging his beauteous chariot, driving his steeds before.
But fleet divine Achilles, seeing him, was distressed 525
And, standing ’mid the Argives, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“‘ The best man whole-hoofed horses drives in the last of
all.
But come now, we will give him the second prize withal,
As fit; but let Tydides the first and foremost bear.”
Thus he, and all applauded what he commanded
there. 530
Now he the horse had given (for the Achaians were won),
Had not Antilochos risen, great-minded Nestor’s son,
And brought before Pelides the question of the right:
BOOK XXIII 493

“T shall be very wrathful, Achilles, if this plight
You keep; for you take from me the present which I
bare. 535
Consider how he injured his rapid steeds and car,
Though he, in truth, is skillful; he should have made a
prayer
To the immortal godheads; then he came not behind.
But if you pity sorely and he is dear in mind,
There are within your quarters much gold and brass for
you, 540
And cattle and eke maidens and whole-hoofed horses, too.
From these, then, take and give him a more resplendent
prize,
F’en now, that the Achaians approval signalize.
But this I will not give him; and let him make demands,
Whoe’er of heroes wishes to fight me with his hands.” 545
Thus he; foot-swift Achilles, divine, smiled on him
here,
Thus favouring Antilochos, for he was comrade dear,
And, to him making answer, with wingéd words bespake:
“ Antilochos, you bid me another present make
Eumelos from my dwelling, that will I gladly do. 550
I'll give to him the corselet of brass which erst I drew
From great Asteropaios; and round it runs a rim
Of melted tin resplendent; ’t is of much worth for him.”
Thus he, and bade Automedon, his dear companion
brave,
To bear it from his quarters; he went and to him gave. 555
[He* placed it in Eumelos’ hands, who with joy re-
ceived].
But ’mid them Menelaos rose up, in spirit grieved,
Wroth at Antilochos greatly. Then a herald in his hands
A scepter placed and silence bade ’mid the Argive bands.
And then the godlike hero to those assembled spoke: 560
“‘ Antilochos, erst prudent, what deed is this you
wroke!—
Youhavemy skilldisparaged and hurt my steeds perforce
By driving yours before them; and yours are much the
worse.

* Achilles.
494 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet come, ye chiefs and leaders of all the Argive race,
Judge now the twain before you, and not with any

grace; 565
Lest it were said by someone of th’ Achaians brazen-
dressed:

‘Menelaos by his falsehoods Antilochos has oppressed,

And goes off with the courser, ‘since his steeds are far the
worse,

Though he himself is better in virtue and in force.’

But come, myself will judge it; and no one then, I

trust, 0
Of the Danaans will reproach me, for the judgment will
be just.

Antilochos Zeus-nurtured, come hither, as is fair,
And stand before the horses and car, and, holding there
In hand the whip shrill-sounding with which you erst
drove forth,
And, touching both the horses, swear by encircling-
earth 575
Earth-Shaker, that, unwilling, by wile my car you stayed.”
In turn Antilochos, prudent to him this answer made:
“Hold now, for I am younger in years than you by far
King Menelaos; older and better, too, you are.
You know what kind of errors to young men apper-
tain, 580
For quicker is their judgment, their mind is weak and vain.
Thus, let your heart endure this; I yield the horse to you,
Which I received; if other and greater yet you sue
From home, that would I give you at once ere I would fall
From your esteem, Zeus-nurtured, through all the days
withal, 585
And thus become transgressor before the gods perforce.”
Thus he; the son of Nestor, great-minded, led the horse
And gave to Menelaos, whose soul rejoiced in turn.
As when the dew-drops falling are spread o’er ears of corn
Upon a growing harvest which bristling fields adorn; 590
Thus gladdened, Menelaos, your spirit in your breast.
And you, in turn bespeaking, with wingéd words ad-
dressed :
“ Antilochos, the anger, which erst I felt ’gainst you,
BOOK XXIII 495

I cease; since neither foolish nor wavering in your view

You were; though youthful judgment has just obscured
your ken. 595

Abstain, then, in the future from cheating better men.

No other Argive hero had me so quickly moved;

Yet you great pains have suffered and many toils have
proved,

As well as your good father and brother for my due.

For this I hear you, praying, and give the horse to you, 600

Though it is mine in justice, that these around may see

That my mind is never haughty nor steeled relentlessly.’

Thus he, and to Noemon, Antilochos’ friend, gave
Thehorse to lead; himself took the cauldron shining brave.

Merion the two talents of glittering gold obtained— 605
The fourth, as he had driven. Still the fifth prize re-
mained—

The double bowl; Achilles, bearing it through the folk
Of th’ Argives, gave to Nestor and stood near him and
spoke:

“ Receive this now, O ancient, let it a keepsake be,
Patroklos’ funeral relic. For you'll no longer see 610
Himself among the Argives; this prize for you I set,

For you fight not with cestus, nor do you wrestle yet,
Nor do you strive with javelin, nor with your feet pursue;
For old age, hard to combat, weighs heavily on you.”
Thus saying, he placed the vessel in his hands; he took
with zest 615
And, when he had bespoken, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“ Sooth, child, of all these matters you speak as fate
commands.
My limbs are firm no longer, O friend; no more my hands
Move nimbly from my shoulders, from either side im-

pelled.
Would that I now were youthful with all the force I
held 620

As when King Amarynkeus th’ Epeian folk interred

At Bouprasion, and prizes the monarch’s sons preferred.
There was no hero like me amid th’ Epeians told,

Nor e’en among the Pylians, nor Aitolians great-souled.
496 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

I conquered at the cestus Klytomedes, Enops son; 625

In wrestling, from Ankaios, the Pleuronian, I won;

With feet I passed by Iphiklos, though he was fleet and

‘ood,

And Polen and Phyleus in flinging spear subdued.

The sons of Aktor only with horses drove by me,

But went before by number, because the victory 630

They envied; since the greatest of the prizes came to me.

They, were in truth, twin brothers; the reins one firmly
held,—

One held the guide-reins firmly, and one with whip im-
pelled.

Thus was I once: at present let younger men engage

Such works, but I must yield me to sorrowful old age. 635

Then, sooth, I was distinguished among these heroes great.

But go, and your companion with contests celebrate.

This I receive with pleasure, my heart rejoices free

That you are ever mindful and aye remember me

With the honour which beseems me amid th’ Achaian

race, 640

For these things may the godheads give you abundant
grace.”

Thus spoke he; and Pelides went ’mid th’ Achaians’
crowd,

When he had heard the honour which Neleus’ son avowed.
But next he placed the prizes for the cestus contest strong :—
Leading a mule enduring, he bound amid the throng 645
(Six years and still unbroken, most difficult to break);
He placed a double beaker for the conquered man to take:
He then stood up and accents amid th’ Achaians spoke;
“ Atridae and you others, well-greaved Achaian folk,
Let us now bid two heroes, who are well skilled in
blows, 650
To raise their fists in battle. On whom Apollo bestows
The victory with the cestus, if so th’ Achaians rule,
Let him go to his quarters, leading this sturdy mule.
But he who there is vanquished shall take the double cup.”
Thus he; at once a hero, valiant and great, rose up, 655
Panopeus’ son Epeios, in cestus-boxing skilled;
He seized the mule enduring and said to those afield:
BOOK XXIII 497

“ Come nearer, who would gladly the double cup convey

I think no other Achaian will lead the mule away,

By winning with the cestus; since I boast myself the
best. 660

Is’t not enough I’m lacking in battle manifest ?

In every kind of labour no man works skillfully.—

And thus I tell you plainly what will accomplished be:

T'll break his body wholly, V’ll break his bones amain;

But let his thronging comrades here on the spot remain,665

That they may bear the hero beneath my hands subdued.”

Thus he; and total silence among them all ensued.

Alone Euryalos rose up, a man like god divine,

The son of King Mekisteus, born of Talaion’s line,

Who erstwhile went to Thebai, to games for Oidipus
dead, 670

And conquered all Kadmeians who to the games had sped.

To. him spear-famed Tydides attended busily,

Encouraging with speeches, for he wished him victory.

He first girt on the baldrick, then next to him applied

The strap-work deftly carven from a rustic ox’s hide. 675

When both were zoned, they went to the middle of the
throng,

And each held up the cestus on hands robust and strong,

Attacking, and together their heavy hands were set.

And dire their jaws resounded, and freely flowed the

sweat
From all parts of their members. Divine Epeios rushed
on 680

His adversary gazing, and struck on the cheek-bone.

Then he could stand no longer, his fair limbs ’neath him
swayed.

As when beneath the ripples by Boreas’ breathings made,

Upon the weedy seashore a fish leaps and is rolled

*Neath a great wave; thus leaped he when struck. But

mighty-souled 685
Epeios seized and raised him; his dear friends round him
came,

And led him from the circus, in feet inept and lame,
Spitting thick blood and rolling his head from side to side.
They led him forth among them, all stunned and stupefied,
498 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Yet, ere they had departed, they took the double cup. 690

But now at once Pelides three other gifts put up,
Showing them to the Danaans, prizes for wrestling dire.
For him who won, a tripod, great, fitted for the fire,
Which the Achaians valued at full twelve oxen’s worth
But for the vanquished hero he led a woman forth, 695
Well-skilled in many labours, of four good oxen’s worth;
Then rose he ’mid the Argives and with this speech ad-

dressed:

“ Rise up, who for this present desire to make the test.”
Thus he; then great Telamonian Ajax rose up ’mid them,
And many-wiled Odysseus, well-versed in stratagem. 700

When they were zoned, they went to the middle of the

throng;
Each took the arm of th’ other with hand robust and
strong,
As if they were the rafters of some great mansion high,
Wrought by some famous workman the winds’ force to
defy.
Their Be creaked, drawn with vigour beneath their
powerful hands; 705
As they swayed in the struggle, moist sweat flowed to the
sands.
And dense-set weals developed on ribs and shoulders hot,
Dyed by the blood deep purple; and ever much they sought
‘To gain the prize of victory, the tripod deftly wrought.
Odysseus could not trip him nor throw him to the,

ground, 710
Nor yet could Ajax, foiled by Odysseus’ strength pro-
found.—

When the well-greaved Achaians were wearied by the bout,
Great Telamonian Ajax at length to him spoke out:
“ Zeus-nurtured Laertiades, Odysseus many-skilled,
Raise me or I will raise you; all this by Zeus is willed.” 715
So saying, he raised; Odysseus forgot not stratagems,
But struck the ham behind him, and loosened thus his
limbs.
At once he fell down backward; and prone upon his
breast
Odysseus fell; the people looked on by wonder pressed.
BOOK XXIII 499

Odysseus much-enduring, divine, raised him again, 720
And moved from earth a little, but could not lift amain;
Yet bent his knees beneath him; and both to earth were
thrust,
One a beside the other, and both were fouled with
ust.
Now, rising, they had struggled for the third time amain,
Had not Achilles risen and bade the two refrain: 725
“ Let not the strife go further; wear not in evil guise;
The victory is to either, and, taking equal prize,
Depart, that other Achaians may strive for victory.”
Thus spoke he; and they heard him and reverenced his
decree,

And wiped away the dust stains and put their tunics on.730
But Pelides other prizes, for swiftness, placed anon:
A well-wrought silver crater, six measures full it drained,
And much surpassed in beauty all which the earth con-

tained;
Since skilled Sidonian workmen had wrought it cunningly,
And Phenician men had brought it upon the shadowy
sea, 735
And offered in the harbours, yet as a present gave
To Thoas. Then Euneos, the son of Jason brave,
A ransom for Lykaon, the son of Priam, gave
To Patroklos; and Achilles placed as a present meet
For whom should be the lightest to run with rapid feet. 740
He placed an ox, the second, swollen with fat and vast;
And half a golden talent he put there for the last,
Then rose amid the Argives and with this speech addressed
“ Rise up, who for this present desire to make the test.”
Thus spoke he; and swift Ajax, Oilean, rose amain, 745
And many-wiled Odysseus; the son of Nestor then,
Antilochos; for he conquered the young men in the race.
[They stood, drawn up in order; Achilles showed the
place]
From which their course extended. Oileus’ offspring
here
Bore on with speed; Odysseus followed him very near. 750
As when some well-zoned woman holds shuttle near her
breast,
500 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Which with her hands most deftly she sends upon its
quest,

Drawing out the woof and putting within the warp in
place,

Holding it near her bosom; thus Odysseus in the race

Ran near him, and behind him trod in his footsteps’

trace 755
With feet, before the dust-cloud rose from the spot be-
neath.—

Divine Odysseus, running, aye lightly poured his breath
Upon his head. Th’ Achaians shouted with outcry vast
To him who burned for victory, and urged him, speeding

fast.
When they the race were ending, at once Odysseus
prayed 760

In mind to fierce-eyed Pallas to lend to him her aid:
““O goddess, listen to me, be to my feet good guard.”
Thus he in supplication; Pallas Athena heard,
And made his members lighter, his feet and hands above.
When they to gain the present with greatest effort
strove, 765
Then Ajax slipped in running (for Athena did him wrong),
Where the filth of slaughtered oxen, wide-bellowing, was
flung,
Which fleet-of-foot Achilles had for Patroklos killed;—
Thus with the filth of oxen his mouth and nose were filled.
Odysseus, much enduring, divine, the crater takes, 770
Since he came first in running; but great Ajax wins the ox.
He stood and held the horn of the wild ox in his hands
And, spitting slime and ordure, said to the Argive bands:
“Ye gods, a goddess injured my feet, who aye before
Like mother by Odysseus stood and assistance bore.” 775
Thus he; and all th’ Achaians Jaughed in their pleasure
vast.
Antilochos bore homeward the poorest prize, and last,
Smiling, while he these accents amid the Argives cast:
“T tell you all who know well, my friends, that even
now
Th’ immortals older heroes with honours high endow. 780
For Ajax is a little elder than I on earth,
BOOK XXIII 501

And of an older lineage, from men of earlier birth,
In crude old age he lingers, they say; ’t is hard with feet
For any Achaian to try him, except Achilles fleet.”
Thus he, and swift Pelides in this way glorified. 785
But then to him Achilles in words like these replied:
“ Antilochos, not vainly your praises shall be told,
But I’ll add to your portion one half a talent’s gold.”
He placed in hand, thus saying; with joy he took the
store.
Then Pelides to the circus a spear long-shadowed bore 790
And stood, and placed beside it a helmet and a shield,
Sarpedon’s arms Patroklos had ta’en from him afield,
And stood among the Argives and with this speech ad-
dressed;
“We ask two chiefs among you (whoe’er may be the
best)
To don these arms and take up the body-cutting brass, 795
And here before the concourse try which of you surpass.
And who may first succeed in striking the body fair
Through th’ armour, and in touching black blood and
entrails there,
To him this silver-studded falchion will I present,
Thrakian and fair, which erstwhile from Asteropaios I
rent. 800
But let them both this armour in common bear away,
[And for them in the quarters a banquet good we'll lay].”
Thus he; then rose great Ajax, the Telamonian dread,
And rose the son of Tydeus, the powerful Diomed.
When they from either portion of the crowd in arms were
dight, 805
They both met in the center, desiring much to fight;
And dire each gazed; and stupour all the Achaians held.—
When they were near together, upon each other impelled,
Three times they rushed, and three times fought hand to
hand afield.
Then Ajax struck him sorely through his all-equal shield,810
But did not reach the body; for the cuirass denied.
Above the mighty buckler then great Tydides tried
Ever to reach the neck parts with the point of his bright
spear.
502 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

And then, in truth, for Ajax th’ Achaians felt great fear,
And bade them stop the combat with equal prize con-
ferred.— 815
But the hero to Tydides carried the mighty sword,
And gave him, with the scabbard and with the belt well-
cut.
Then Pelides placed an ingot of iron all unwrought,
Which once the mighty vigour of great Eetion threw.
Yet even him swift-footed, divine Achilles slew, 820
And brought this to the vessels with other goods infest.
He stood up ’mid the Argives and with these words ad-
dressed:
“Rise up, ye Danaan heroes who would this prize
contest.
E’en though one’s fertile acres stretch very far away,
For full five years revolving ’t will all his needs purvey. 825
Nor need for want of iron shepherd or, ploughman go
To the city to obtain it, for this with‘all bestow.”
Thus he; then Polypoites, strong in hard warring,
stood;
Then rose up the dire vigour of Leonteus, like a god;
Then rose Telamonian Ajax, divine Epeios rose. 830
And all stood there in order; divine Epeios chose
The mass and sent it whirling; and laughed th’ Achaians
all.
Leonteus, scion of Ares, the next sent it withal.
Third, great Telamonian Ajax in turn the iron cast.
[From his hand stout and valid, and all the marks o’er-
passed]. 835
When war-strong Polypoites the mass of iron took,
As far as some cow-herdsman flings from his hand his
crook;
And that flies, while revolving, on through the oxen’s
crowd;
So far through all th’ arena he cast; they shouted loud.
Then rose up the companions of Polypoites strong, 840
And bore the monarch’s present the hollow ships among.
He* placed then for the archers iron, for arrows good,
And there ten battle-axes and ten half-axes stood.

* Achilles,
BOOK XXIII 503

The mast ta’en from a vessel kyanian-prowed he placed
Afar amid the sand-dunes; with slender cord he laced 845
By foot a timid pigeon to it, and bade them shoot:
“Who hits the timid pigeon may take the axes out
And bear +e home; who misses the bird but hits the
cord,
For he is not so skillful, shall have the last award.”
Thus spoke he; and there rose up King Teucer’s power-
ful might, 850
And after him Meriones, Idomeneus brave knight.
The lots in brazen helmet they shook well to allot.
But Teucer first was lotted; at once a shaft he shot
With power, but did not promise to Phoebus in their
bloom
His firstling lambs to make him a famous hecatomb. 855
He missed the bird (for Phoebus envied him this award),
But by the foot he struck on the string which bound the
bird;
And by the bitter arrow the cord was wholly shorn.
The bird flew up to heaven, the string to earth was borne;
And the Achaians applauded. Meriones in haste 860
Snatched from the hand of Teucer the bow; but long held
placed
The arrow while he aimed it. His firstling lambs in
bloom
He vowed far-darting Phoebus, to make famed hecatomb.
He saw the timid pigeon close to the high clouds cling,
And shot her while she circled, ’neath the middle of the

wing. 365
The missile drove on through her, and back within the
earth

Before the foot of Merion was fixed; the bird flew forth
And settled on the high mast of the vessel kyanos-prowed,
But drooped her neck, and with it her close-drawn wings
were bowed.
Soon life flew from her members, and far from it she
fell. 870
The people gazed in wonder, enthralled by stupour’s spell.
Then Merion all ten axes took to augment his store,
And Teucer the half-axes to the hollow vessels bore.
504 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Next Pelides ’mid the concourse placed a long-shad-
owed spear
And fire-untarnished cauldron, the value of a steer, 875
With wrought flowers variegated. Then the men with
spears arose:
Wide-ruling Agamemnon, the son of Atreus, rose,
And, after him, Meriones, Idomeneus’ squire dread.
But fleet divine Achilles among them stood and said:
“ Atrides (for we know that you o’er the rest are
classed, 800
And are the best in vigour and in the javelin-cast),
Thus you, this present taking, to the hollow vessels go,
And I on hero Merion will this fair spear bestow,
If in your mind you wish it; for I advise it so.”
Thus he; nor disobeyed him Agamemnon, king of
men, 885
Who gave the brazen javelin to Merion, who then
To Talthybios, the herald, the fair prize gave again.

BOOK XXIV.

THE RANSOM OF HEKTOR,

The concourse then was loosened; the folk dispersed
and fared,

Each, to their rapid vessels, and for th’ enjoyment cared

Of banquet and sweet slumber. But still Achilles wept,

Remembering his dear comrade; nor sleep all-mastering

kept
Its sway o’er him; but ever he rolled, now here, now
there, 5

Desiring aye Patroklos’ valour and vigour rare:

All which they had accomplished, and how they suffered
pain,

Their battles fought with heroes, tempting the dangerous
main.—

While he these things remembered, he wept abundant
brine;
BOOK XXIV 505

Now on his sides he rested, and now again, supine, 10
Now prone he lay extended; then stood erect and bore
His path in saddened wanderings beside the Ocean’s shore.
Nor ’scaped him Morning, shining o’er sea and shore afar.
But, afterwards, he harnessed his rapid steeds acar,
And bound the corpse of Hektor to drag behind the

wain, 15
And dragged thrice round the barrow of Menoitiades
slain;

Then rested in his quarters, and left him in the dust
Upon his face extended. Phoebus Apollo thrust
All injury from the body, for he pitied the renowned,
Though dead, and with his aegis of gold encircled round 20
So Achilles in the dragging might not inflict a wound.
Thus, truly, he dishonoured in anger Hektor divine.
But the happy gods felt pity, while they saw his design,
And urged the watchful Slayer of Argus to steal him.
Though this pleased all the others, it pleased not Hera
grim, 25
Nor did it please Posidon, nor yet the fierce-eyed maid.
They were as erst, and hatred to sacred Troy displayed,
And to Priam and his people, for Alexander’s shame,
Who the goddesses insulted when to his hut they came,
And chose the one who gave him lust, fraught with many
woes.— 30
But when now the twelfth morning from that at last arose,
Amid the gods immortal Phoebus Apollo said:
“You are cruel, gods, and noxious; did never Hektor
dead
Burn for you thighs of oxen and chosen goats all-brave ?
Him now you do not venture, though he is dead, to save, 35
That his consort and his mother and his tender son may
see, .
And his father and the people; who him all speedily
Would burn in fire resplendent, and give funereal rites.
But, gods, you wish to favour Achilles who excites
Destruction, and whose spirit is lawless, and whose
mind 40
Bends not within his bosom, where savage thoughts are
shrined,
506 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Like lion’s who, when yielding to his high soul and
strength,

Attacks the sheep of mortals that he may feast at length;

Thus Achilles has lost pity and every sense of shame,

Which, wanting, hurts men greatly, and present, profits
them.

One may have lost some other most dearly cherished one,

The son of his own mother or even his own son;

E’en then, his grief and wailing he lays aside again,

For, sooth, the Fates have given a patient soul to men.

But he binds godlike Hektor to his car and round the

tomb 50
Of his dear comrade drags him, since he has reft life’s
bloom;

This does not make him better nor of a loftier mood.

I fear lest we be angered at him, though he is good,

For he in rage dishonours the earth, to feeling dead.”

To him white-elbowed Hera with grievous anger said: 55

“Your speech might be with reason, God of the silver
bow,

If you like rank on Hektor and Achilles should bestow.

Yet Hektor is but mortal and sucked a woman’s breast;

But Achilles is the offspring of a goddess manifest,

Whom I brought up and nurtured, and gave a man as
bride, 60

E’en Peleus, whom the godheads cherish as none beside.

You all were at the bridal, O gods, and Phoebus, you

Feasted there, holding cithern, ill comrade, aye untrue.”

To her Zeus cloud-compelling said in reply severe:

“ Hera, be not so angered with all the godheads here. 65

Their rank shall not be equal; but Hektor was most dear

To godheads of the mortals who are in Ilion;

And thus to me, since ever his cherished gifts were shown.

And at no time my altar wanted the banquet true,

Nor incense nor sweet savour; for this honour is our
due. 7o

Dismiss the thought of stealing the corpse of Hektor bold,

And ’t is not fate the secret from Achilles to withold,

For his mother stays beside him, both night and day aye
near.
BOOK XXIV 507

Yet let one of the godheads call Thetis to me here,
That sound advice I give her, and great Achilles thus 75
May take the gifts of Priam and Hektor’s body loose.”
Thus he, and storm-foot Iris rose up for messenger.
And in the midst ’twixt Samos and rugged Imbros bare
To the dark sea and leapt in; the Ocean groaned around.
But she sank like a plummet within th’ abyss profound, 80
Which, in the horn of wild bull involved, down swiftly goes
To the raw-eating fishes and bears them fate and woes.
Thetis in hollow cavern she found; and round her sate
Densely the Ocean goddesses; and in their midst the fate
Of her blameless son she sorrowed, whom cruel fate had
banned 85
To die in fertile Troja, far from his fatherland.
Then, standing close beside her, swift-footed Iris said:
“ Thetis, arise; Zeus calls you, whose counsels do not
fade.”
Then silver-footed Thetis to her this answer made:
“Why does this great god bid me? A sense of shame
I find go
To mix with the immortals,and I have much grief in mind.
But I will go; not idle shall be the words he spoke.”
Thus saying,the heavenly goddess her veil kyanean took,
Than which no blacker garment was hoarded in her store.
She went; swift wind-foot Iris went in the path before; 95
And round about their footsteps the Ocean’s wave was
riven.
They went upon the seashore and hastened on to heaven.
They found Zeus widely-thundering; and round him
thickly sate
All the other happy godheads who know not death and
fate.
She sat by Zeus, the Father, Pallas made place for her; 100
And Hera in her hand put a golden goblet fair,
And with her words consoled her; and Thetis drank and
then
Returned. And next addressed them the Sire of gods and
men:
“You come now to Olympus, Thetis, though worn by
woe,
508 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Having within your bosom grave grief, as well I know ; 105
Yet I will tell you plainly why I have called you here.
Nine days among th’ immortals has raged contention drear
About Achilles, waster of towns, and Hektor’s corse.
And some incite spy Hermes to steal ’t by ways perverse.
Yet I give to Achilles this high illustrious fame, 110
Keeping by this, hereafter, your friendship and acclaim.
But go quick to the army and tell your son withal:

Say that the gods are angry; that I the most of all

Th’ immortals am indignant, because with frenzied

thought,
By the curve-bowed vessels Hektor he holds and ransoms
not; 115

If anywise he fear me let him for presents loose.

But to great-hearted Priam I will send Iris thus:

That to th’ Achaians’ vessels he go to loose his son,

And bear Achilles presents his soul will gladly own.”
Thus he; and silver-footed Thetis did not dissent, 120

But from th’ Olympian summits with rushing impulse

went.

She soon approached the quarters of her son, and found
him there,

With frequent groans lamenting; his dear friends round
took care

With zeal of what was needful and were on banquet bent.

A great fleeced sheep was offered by them within the
tent. 125

His reverenced mother sat down beside him disarrayed

And, with her hand caressing, she spoke the word and
said:

“My child, how long lamenting and worn by sorrow

rude

Will you devour your spirit, remembering naught of food

Or bed? But to remain with one fondly loved is good; 130

For you'll not live much longer, yet near and obstinate

Already stand beside you death and a violent fate.

But quickly hear! A messenger from Zeus I come withal.

He says the gods are angry, and he the most of all

Th’ immortals is indignant; because with frenzied
thought 135
BOOK XXIV 509

By the curve-bowed vessels Hektor you hold and loosen
not.
But come now, loose the body, take ransom for the dead.”

Then swift-of-foot Achilles to her in answer said:
“So be it; who bears ransom may loose the corpse’s bands
If, with desiring spirit, th’ Olympian’s self commands.”140

Thus by the ships together, the mother and the son
With wingéd words to each other on many subjects run.
But Kronides sent Iris to sacred Ilion:

“Go quickly, rapid Iris, and leave Olympus grand,
And mighty-hearted Priam in Ilion command 145
To seek the ships Achaian to loose his cherished son
And bear Achilles presents his mind will gladly own;
And with no other Trojan, but let him go alone.

Some herald old may follow who may direct the track

Of the mules and well-wheeled chariot, and help him
carry back, 150

Toward the town, the body divine Achilles slew.

Yet let not any terror of death his soul imbue;

For in the Slayer of Argus I'll give him such a guide

To lead him till he reaches hero Achilles’ side.

But when the god has led him within Achilles’ tent, 155

The hero will not slay him, and will the rest prevent.

For he is not imprudent nor rash nor outlaw rare;

Yet he will shield the suppliant with the extremest care. ”

Thus he; and storm-foot Iris rushed forth a messenger.
She came to Priam’s palace where woe and wailing

were. 160
The sons, around their father, were seated in the hall,
And wet with tears their garments; the old man ’mid
them all
Was wrapped up in his vestment; and round about the
head
And neck, too, of the ancient abundant filth was spread,
Which with his hands he gathered while in the dust he

rolled. 165
His daughters in the palace and daughters-in-law con-
doled.

While they thought of the heroes (who were both many
and good,)
510 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Who lay bereft of spirit by Argive hands subdued.
Then stood beside King Priam Jove’s messenger and

spoke,
Speaking with softest accents; his* limbs a tremor
took: 170

“ Be strong, O Dardan Priam, in spirit, do not fear;
Not meditating evil, have I come to you here,
But, thinking kindly counsels, ] come Jove’s messenger,
Who pities you, though distant, and guards you with great

care.
Th’ Olympian commands you to ransom Hektor di-
vine 175

And bear gifts to Achilles which may his soul incline,—

Alone, nor other Trojan may in the journey join.

Some herald old may follow who may direct the track

Of the mules and well-wheeled chariot, and help you carry

back,

Toward the town, the body divine Achilles slew. 180

But let not any terror of death your soul imbue;

For the great Slayer of Argus will go with you as guide,

To lead you till you come to hero Achilles’ side.

But when the god has led you within Achilles’ tent,

The hero will not slay you and will the rest prevent. 185

For he is not imprudent nor rash nor outlaw rare;

Yet he will shield the suppliant with the extremest care.”
Saying this, swift-footed Iris departed on her way.

But next King Priam commanded his sons around to

array
His well-wheeled mule-drawn chariot, and bind on it a
chest. 190

Himself went to his chamber, of fragrant scents possessed,
Cedar and high arched over, where many rich stores were
spread.

He called his consort Hekuba within, and to her said:
“Unhappy one, a messenger from Zeus to me has sped:

To seek th’ Achaians’ vessels to ransom my dear son, 195

And bear gifts to Achilles his soul will gladly own.

Yet come and tell me truly what in your breast you know;

For direly strength and spirit have bidden me to go

*Priam’s.
BOOK XXIV sur

Thither upon the vessels ’mid th’ Achaians’ army wide.”
Thus he; his wife lamented and with these words re-

plied: 200
“O me, where then has vanished that prudence which
before

Was famous, e’en ’mid strangers and men whom you
ruled o’er?

Why do you wish the vessels of th’ Achaians to seek alone

Before the eyes of hero who for you has overthrown

Both many and valiant offspring? Like iron is your
heart. 205

For if this fierce and faithless should seize you thus apart,

Or with his eyes behold you, he would not pity you,

And nowise would he reverence. Now let us weep anew,

Sitting within the palace; let him* bear what of yore

Fierce Fate spun in his life-thread, when I myself erst
bore: 210

To sate the dogs swift-footed far from his parents eld,

Before that violent hero. Would I his} liver held,

To eat, while I clung to it!—Such deeds might then re-
quite

My son, who bore him bravely when Achilles slew in
fight.

Yet he etire the Trojans and their wives deep-breasted
stood, 215

And had no thought of flying nor shunning in his mood.”

To her in turn the ancient, Priam divine, replied:

“Hinder me not in going, who wish it; nor, beside,

Be bird of evil omen within my mansions wide.

You will not thus persuade me; if another man had
told, 220

Though he had been soothsayer, a priest or prophet old,

I had said it was a falsehood, and were the more repelled.

Now (for I saw the godhead and face to face beheld)

I go, and speak not vainly. If ’t is my fate infest

To die beside the vessels of th’ Achaians brazen-
dressed, 225

I wish it; for Achilles will slay me speedily

With my son in my embraces,—in tears’ satiety.”

*Hektor. +Achilles.
512 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Thus spoke he, while he opened the fair lids of the chest,
And took from it twelve mantles, of beauty manifest,
Next them, twelve cloaks made single, as many tapes-

tries, 2.30
As many cloths all-beauteous, and tunics twelve with these.
He weighed out ten whole talents of purest gold, and bore,
Andtwo brightsparkling tripods, and with them cauldrons
four,
And an all-beauteous beaker, which Thrakian heroes gave
Him, going on legation—a mighty gift to save! 2
But now the old man spared not; for much he wished in
mind
His cherished son to ransom. But all the Trojan kind
He kept back from the corridor, chiding with speeches due:

“ Begone, ye ill reproaches, is there no grief for you

At home, that thus you vex me and come where I
remain, 240

Or do you think it little that Zeus has given me pain,

By slaying my best offspring? Yet you yourselves will
see,

For now to the Achaians it will much easier be

To slay you, since he perished. But I, before I see

The city waste and ruined, will go to Hades’ rout.” 245

Thus he, and drove the heroes with staff, and they went

out

Before the ancient driving. He called to his sons nine,

Reproaching Paris and Helenos and Agathon divine,

Antiphonos and Pammon, Polites, good in war,

Deiphobos, Hippothoos, and Dios famed afar. 250

These nine the old man ordered with his reproachful

call:

“Hasten to me, ill children, shameless, would that you
all

Were by the rapid vessels, rather than Hektor, slain.

O me, the most unhappy!—Since none, I say, remain

Of all the bravest children whom in wide Troy I had: 255

Troilos, chariot-fighter, and Mestor, like a god,

And Hektor, who a god was ’mid mortals and seemed: not

Child of a mortal hero, but one whom god: begot.

All these were slain by Ares; but all the vile remain:
BOOK XXIV. 513°:

The liars and the dancers, the best in chorus vain,: 260 :

And eke the public robbers of kids and lambkins faiz—.-

Will you not now my chariot most rapidly prepare, :

And place all these things on it that I may. go my path?” “
Thus spoke he; and they dreaded their sire’s reproach-

ful wrath,

And lifted from its storehouse the well-wheeled mule
drawn car, 265,.

Beauteous and newly-fashioned, and bound the hamper
there.

And from its peg they took down the mule-yoke there -
assigned,

Box-wood, adorned with bosses, with many .zings. well
joined; ;

With. it they bore the yoke-strap, which was nine cubits -
long,

And skillfully arranged it on the well-polished tongue, .270:

At its extremest portion (then the ring on bolt. they cast);

Thrice round the boss they brought it, and duly made: it;
fast;

But..then they bound it deftly and ’neath the end. part: :
passed,

They. bore out of the chamber, on the car well-polished :
spread

The priceless riches given to ransom Hektor’s head. 275

The strong-hoofed mules they yoked up, well.skilled to
draw the car,

Whom Mysians gave to Priam—a splendid gift to bear.

Beneath the yoke for Priam the horses next they led,

Whom erst at polished manger himself had freely fed.

Both steeds in the high palace were now -by yoke con- -
fined 280%:

By Priam and the herald, both of a prudent mind.:

But Hekuba went near them with an afflicted soul,’

And held in her hand dexter sweet wine in golden bowl,

That they might make libation ere they the journey sped.”

She stood before the horses and spoke the werd and ‘
said: 285 <

“ Take, libate Zeus, the Father, and pray to come once «

more ’
514 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Back from the hostile heroes, since your spirit urges sore

To go upon the vessels, while I oppose you thus.

Yet supplicate devoutly dark-cloud-collecting Zeus,

Idean, son of Kronos, who holds ail Troy in sight. 290

Ask for a bird, swift messenger, borne forward on the right,

Which one to him is dearest and has the greatest might;

That you may gaze upon it with your own eyes and know,

And, trusting this, to the vessels of the swift-horsed

Danaans go.

But if Zeus widely-thundering gives not this messenger,295

Then I would not exhort you in any way to fare

Upon the Argive vessels, though your desire be high.”
To her then godlike Priam said as he made reply:

“ O wife, I will obey you, who counsel earnestly.

*T is good to hold my hands up for Zeus to pity me.” 300
Thus spoke he, and the ancient bade the attendant maid

Pour o’er his hands pure water; and she with speed obeyed,

Holding at once a basin and ewer eke in hand.

He washed and from his consort took the goblet which she

‘ ‘spanned;
Then stood ’mid the enclosure and prayed while wine he
poured, 305
And gazed on heaven and, raising his accents, spoke the
word:
“Zeus Sire, from Ida ruling, most glorious and most
great,

Let me reach Achilles’ quarters, let him commiserate;

But send‘a bird, swift messenger, borne forward on the
right,

Which one to you is dearest and has the greatest might, 310

That I may gaze upon it with my own eyes and know,

And, trusting this, to the vessels of the swift-horsed

' Danaans go.”
Thus spoke he, supplicating, and Zeus all-prudent

heard.

He sent at once an eagle, most surely auguring bird,

Whom men name Sable Hunter and, also, Perknos call.315

As large as is the portal made for a lofty hall

Of one with many possessions, well-bolted and well-
‘joined,
BOOK XXIV 515

So large was either pinion; he to the right inclined

As he rushed o’er the city. They saw with joy confest,

While the spirit which inspired them rejoiced in every
breast. 320

The old man then ascended his chariot in haste,

And from the echoing porches and vestibule drove fast.

The mules dragged on the wagon (which had four wheels)
before,

And wise Idaios drove them; behind the horses bore,

Whom the old man incited, urging them with the whip 325

Rapidly through the city; all of his fellowship

Followed with lamentation, as if he went to bane.

But when they left the city and came upon the plain,

The rest, in truth, turned backward and went to Ilion.

His sons-in-law and children. The two ’scaped not the
scan ‘0

Of Zeus wide-thundering, seeing, he pitied the old man,

And quickly then to Hermes, his cherished son, began:

“ Hermes, for ’t is most pleasing and grateful to you still
Tobesomeman’scompanion, and youhear who’er you will,
Go!—to the hollow vessels of th’ Achaians, lead Priam

so, : 335
That none of the other Danaans may see him or may
know,

Before he to the son of Peleus his way has made.”

Thus he; and Argus-Slayer, the messenger, obeyed.
Beneath his feet he quickly bound fast his sandals fair,
Ambrosial and golden, which o’er the Ocean bear, 340
And o’er the earth wide-spreading with the winds’ roving

sighs.
He took his rod enchanted with which he soothes the eyes
Of mortals when he wishes, and wakes from sleep anew;—
With this in hand the potent Slayer of Argus flew,
And soon reached Hellespontos and eke: the Trojan
earth, 345
And hastened on, resembling a youth of royal birth,
In the first flower of manhood, in fairest youthful bloom.

When now the two were driving by Ilos’ massive tomb,
They stopped the mules and horses in the stream that they

might drink;
516 -. THE ILIAD.OF: HOMER

For even now the twilight began o’er earth to-sink. 350
The herald saw and: noticed Hermes who neat-:them-
pressed,
And, speaking to King Priam, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
“ Consider now, Dardanides, and prudent counsel show.
I see a man, and quickly he’ll slay us both, I trow.:
But either let us fly from the chariot, or, thus; . 355
Let us entreat, while clasping his knees, to pity us.”
Thus he; the ancient’s spirit was tost; dire was his
fright,
And on his bending members the hairs arose upright.-
He stood there in amazement; but Hermes nearer pressed, :
And took the hand of th’ ancient, and asked him. and ade:
dressed: 360:
“Where, father, are you guiding through night. am-
brosial, deep,
These mules and eke these horses, when other mortals.
sleep ?
Do you not fear extremely th’ Achaians, breathing might,:;
Who, enemies and hostile, are near, though ‘not in sight?
If one of them should see you in the swift sable night; 365
Who lead so many possessions, ‘what mind were then ‘to:
ou?
You = in nowise youthful, nor this old man I view.-
You could not ward a warrior if one should erst molest.
Yet I will work no evil, but anyone infest
I'll ward, for I compare you to my own father dear:’’ 370 +
Then ancient godlike Priam to him made answer here:
“ My cherished son, these things are as you say truthfully.
- Howe’er, one of the godheads extends his hands o’er me,”
Who has sent forth to meet me such ‘guide through all thé.
harm,
So fortunate and beauteous as-you in shape and form, ..375 .
And with a mind so prudent, of happy parents born.”
Then Slayer of Argus, messenger, to him replied in turn:
“ All of these things, O ancient, you fittingly unfold.
Yet come and tell this plainly, and be it truly told:
Whether you send these treasures, many and geod. to:
view, 380
+BOOK. XXIV 517

. To men. of foreign countries to keep them.safe for you?
Or do you all already leave sacred Ilion
Infear? For such a warrior has died, the best, your son,
Since he lacked naught.in battle with the Achaian train.”
Then ancient godlike Priam to him replied again: 385
“ Who may you be, best hero, what parents do you own,
Who speak well of the death of my eyil-fated son ?”
_Then Slayer of Argus, messenger, to him in turn began:
“ You ask of godlike Hektor, and try me thus, old man.
I saw him in the battle, which glorifies men’s name, 390
‘With mine eyes very often, when.to the ships he came
And slew the Argives by. them, slaying. with the sharp
brass.
And. we stood .there.and wondered; but Achilles let not
pass
On to the din of battle, at Agamemnon wroth.
For I. was his. attendant, and. one well-made ship bore
: both. 395
I’m of the:Myrmidonians;, Polyktor is my sire.
And.he, in. truth, is wealthy and. old, as you are-here.
» He has six sons now.with him, and me, the seventh, begot;
‘And, when the lots were shaken, I followed here by lot.
But now I left the vessels for the plain; with morning
bright 400
The glancing-eyed Achaians will round the city fight.
» For they,are wroth with waiting; nor can the kings debar
(Who rule o’er the Achaians) the men who long for war.”
Then ancient godlike Priam to him in turn begun:
“ Tf you,in truth, are servant of Achilles, Peleus’ son, 405
Come now and tell. me truly the whole, however grim;
If yet beside the vessels my son is, or if him
Achilles cast to wild dogs, tearing him limb from limb.”
‘The Slayer. of Argus, messenger, to him in turn said
there:
“ O ancient, in no manner do dogs and vultures tear. 410
Beside Achilles’ vessel he lies as he was borne
.. Amid the quarters erstwhile; and now ’t is the twelfth
morn
. Since he has lain;. the body rots not, nor do the worms
Eat him, though they eat heroes slain in the battle’s harms,
518 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

’T is true that he will drag him in scorn around the
tomb 415

Of his beloved companion when morn divine shall come,

But he does not dishonour; it would amaze your mood

To see how fresh he lies there, entirely cleansed from
blood,

And in no part polluted; and all his wounds are closed,

As many as were inflicted; for many the brass imposed.420

Thus have the happy godheads cared for your cherished
son,

Though but a lifeless body; for he their love had won.”

Thus he; the old man gladdened and answered with

the word:

“O son, ’t is good and noble to offer gifts preferred

To the immortal godheads; since my son, while life was
told, 425

Ne’er slighted in his mansions those who Olympus hold;

And thus they yet remember, even in death and fate.

Yet come now, and take from me this cup elaborate.

And keep it and conduct me, if gods their favour show,

Till to the tented quarters of Peleus’ son I go.” 430

The slayer of Argus, messenger, to him this answer
made:

“Old man, you tempt one younger, but you will not per-
suade,

Who bid me take your presents when Achilles does not
know.

For very much I fear him and feel in heart the glow
Of shame when I defraud him, lest evil come to me. 435
But e’en to famous Argos I’d your conductor be,
Careful in rapid vessel, or footman by your side;
And none would care to fight you, despising me as guide.”
Thus he, and Hermes leapt on the horses and the car,
And with his hands seized quickly the whip and guide-
reins fair, 440

And animated horses and mules with vigour good.

Yet when they reached the turrets of the ships, and fossa
broad,

The watchers were much busied about their banquet
board,
BOOK XXIV 519

And Slayer of Argus, messenger, o’er all-sweet slumber

poured,
And oped the portals quickly and pushed back every
bar, 445

And led within King Priam and the fair gifts on the car.
Yet when now to the quarters of Pelides they had come,
Lofty st which the Myrmidons made for their monarch’s
ome, :
Hewing the beams from fir-trees, arching the roof above,
And mowing in the meadow the roof in thatching
wove,— 450
Fortheir king, aspacious paling around the whole they bore
With thickset stakes; a single fir bar held fast the door,
And three of the Achaians were wont to fix the spar,
And three were wont to open the portals’ mighty bar,
Three of the rest; Achilles could close it, though alone, 455
Then Hermes, bounteous giver, opened for the old man,
And for foot-swift Pelides the famous presents led,
And to the earth descended out of the car and said:

“Old man, a god immortal, I came here by your side,—
I’m Hermes,— for my father sent me to you as guide., 460
But I will come back surely, although I will not go ~
Before Achilles’ vision; it were unworthy so:

That an immortal godhead should care for mortals’ pleas.

Yet go within his quarters and take Pelides’ knees

And supplicate by father and well-haired mother kind, 465

And by his dear son pray him; that you may touch his
mind.”

When Hermes thus had spoken, at once he hastened

forth
To great Olympus; Priam leapt from his car to earth,
But in it left Idaios who there remained alone
To guard the mules and horses, while the old man went

straight on . 470
To the tent where sat Achilles, Zeus-loved. He found
him in;

His friends sat at a distance; with him were but two-men,

Alkimos, scion of Ares; and Automedon, hero good.

Both served him, standing near him; he had just ceased
from food:
520 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

From eating and from drinking, and the table yet stood
by. 475
‘Great Priam came unnoticed and stood there very nigh,
And with his hands he seized on Achilles’ knees; amain
‘He kissed the hands destroying which many sons had slain.
‘As when remorse has seized on a man, who in his home
Has killed another hero and to strange peoplecome 480
‘Into a rich man’s mansion, and the seeers gaze with awe;
Thus did Achilles marvel when godlike Priam he saw.
‘The others also wondered and on each other gazed.
“But Priam, supplicating, addressed him, thus amazed:
' “ Be mindful of your father, Achilles, like the gods, 485
“Who, like me, on the threshold of grim old age corrodes.
And those who live around him, perhaps, with ill assail,
And there is none beside him to ward off war and bale.
‘And, it may be that, hearing that you are yet alive,
‘He gladdens in his spirit, and all the days revive 490
The hope that he may see you from sacred Troy returned.
But I, of all unhappy, whom the bravest sons adorned
In ample Troy, believe that no one is left of them.
Yet fifty sons, I boasted when th’ Achaians’ children came,
And nineteen of these heroes were of a single breast; 495
And women in my palace bore to me all the rest.
Though rushing Ares loosened the knees of many of these,
Yet there was one who watched o’er ourselves and palaces,
Whom lately you have slaughtered, guarding his father-
land,
“Hektor, for whom I come to the ships of th’ Argive band,
. That I from you may ransom; I bear a boundless fee.
“Yet fear the gods, Achilles, respect and pity me,
Remembering your own father; more wretched I than he.
For I have borne what mortal of earth has ne’er defiled:
To take the hand and kiss it of him who slew my
child.” 505
_ “Thus he; but wish for father brought tears and disarray;
Taking the hand of th’ ancient, he* gently pushed away.
And both, recalling memories, wept tears sad and replete:
“One, for man-slaying Hektor, rolled at Achilles’ feet;
But Achilles mourned his father, another time, again, 510

* Achilles.
BOOK XXIV 521

Patroklos; and their wailing rose in the house amain.
But when divine Achilles was satiate of moan,
[And from ag breast and members desire to weep had
gone],
He left his seat directly, th’ old man by hand upbore,
Pitying his head all-hoary, pitying his beard all-hoar. 515
Then when he had bespoken, with wingéd words ad-
dressed:
‘“O wretched, many evils you’ve suffered in your
breast!
How dared you thus the vessels of th’ Achaians singly view
Before the eyes of hero who erst had slain for you
Full many and valiantoffspring ? Yourheartis iron sure.520
But come, sit down beside me and let these pains obscure
Subside within your spirit, though torn by deepest grief.
For, not in sad lamenting does there appear relief.
For this the gods have fated for wretched men to share:
To live amid dire sorrows, while themselves are free from
care. 525
For there are by Jove’s threshold two jars of presents still,
Such as he gives—one holding the good, and one, the #ll.
.On whom Zeus, thunder-joying, bestows a mixture rude,
That man has sometimes evil and, at another, good.
‘To whom he gives the evil, on him all ills combine; 530
And evil chance pursues him upon the earth divine;
He goes, but is not honoured—neither by man nor god.
So, even thus, on Peleus the gods high gifts bestowed
From birth; for he was famous amid all mortals’ sons,
-For riches and possessions, and ruled the Myrmidons; 535
‘They gave for wife a goddess, though he was mortal born.
With all a god gave-evil, for in his halls forlorn
No sons of royal lineage were borne to cheer the pair.
One son, too early fated, he got.—I.cannot care
For him now he is aging, since I am now in Troy, - 540
Far from my native country—your sons’ and your annoy.
We heard that you, O ancient, erst joyed in wealth replete;
And in the-land surrounded by Lesbos, Makar’s seat,
And Phrygia above it, and Hellespontos wide,
‘They say that erst, O ancient, your sons and- wealth out-
vied. 454
522 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But when the gods celestial brought on you this dire bane:
Around your city ever fights and the slaying of men,—
But hold, and let not ever your mind to weeping run.
You will accomplish nothing by grieving for your son,
Nor will you resurrect him ere further ill is sped.” 550
Then ancient godlike Priam to him in answer said:
“ Givemeno seat, Zeus-nurtured, while Hektor thus will lie
Uncared for in the quarters, yet loose most speedily,
That with my eyes I see him; but take these ransoms now,
Full many, which I bear you; may you enjoy enow 555
And reach your father’s country, since you have let me go.
[To live myself and gaze on the light of Helios’ glow].
Then, gazing on him grimly, foot-swift Achilles said:
“No longer rouse me, ancient, for I by thought am led
To ransom to you Hektor. A messenger to me, 560
My mother came, the daughter of the ancient of the sea.
I know you, Priam, in spirit; you do not hide from me
That to th’ Achaians’ swift vessels some god led you, in

sooth.

No mortal would have ventured, though in the bloom of
youth,

To come amid the army; he could not ’scape the
guards, 565

Nor easily unfasten our portals’ bars and wards.

Thus now, excite no longer my mind by sorrows rent,

Lest, ancient, I might harm you, e’en here within my tent

(Although you are a suppliant), and break Jove’s man-
dates laid.”

Thus he; the old man feared him and his commands

obeyed. 570

Pelides from the doors rushed, like lion from his den,

Not sole, for two attendants followed him closely then:

Automedon, the hero, and Alkimos; both had

From Achilles greatest honour after Patroklos dead.

Then from the yoke the horses and mules they loosed
within, 575

And led the clear-voiced herald of the ancient monarch in,

And placed upon a settle and, from the polished wain,

Took down the priceless ransom for the head of Hektor
slain.
BOOK XXIV 523

But left a well-wove tunic and two cloaks in its room,

That it might wrap the body when they should bear it

home. 580
They ordered maids to wash him and oint when that was
done,

Taking apart; that Priam might not see thus his son,
Lest he check not the anger felt in his grieving heart,
Seeing his son, and fury to Achilles’ soul impart,
And he should slay the ancient, and Jove’s commands
turmoil. 585
But when the maidens washed him and ointed him with
oil;
They put about the body fair pall and tunic sheer;
Himself, Achilles, raised him and placed upon the bier;
With him his comrades raised it upon the polished wain.
He called by name his comrade and sighed and groaned
amain: 590
“ Be not irate, Patroklos, if you, perchance, may know,
E’en though in Hades’ dwelling, that I let Hektor go
To his dear sire, who gives me the ransom which is due.
But I, in turn, will render a seeming share to you.”
Thus he, and to his quarters divine Achilles hied. 595
He sat on couch well-fashioned, which stood by the other
side,
Whence he had just arisen, and to old Priam said:
“ Your son is really ransomed, O ancient, as you pled,
And on the bier reposes; with Morning in the East,
’ Yourself shall see and bear him; now, let us think of
feast. 600
For even well-haired Niobé bestowed her thoughts on food,
Although twelve children perished within her mansions
ood;
And = of these were daughters, six sons in youthful glow.
But these Apollo slaughtered with his bright silvery bow‘
For he was wroth at Niobé. The maids Shaft-Joying*
marred 605
For Niobé to Leto fair-cheeked herself compared,
As bearing but two children while she in many joyed;
Yet these, although two only, the multitude destroyed.

*Diana.
i§24 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

Nine days in gore they lay there; and there were none with
moans
, To bury, for Kronion turned all the folk to stones; 610
But.the celestial godheads buried on the tenth day.
Yet she of food was mindful, when weeping wore away.
Now ’mid the rocks terrific on desert mountains’ heads,
In Sipylos where, they tell us, the goddess nymphs have
beds,
Who Archeloos’ currents with frenzied dances span,—
‘There, though she is stone only, she feels the -god-sent
ban. 615
But come now, let us think of the food, divine old man;
Then you may your dear offspring. with copious.-tears
bedew,
And take to sacred Ilion, to be much wept by you.”
. Thus spoke foot-fleet Achilles and, leaping up,-he slew
-A snowy sheep; his comrades skinned it. and duly
. dressed, * 620
‘And cut in pieces deftly and pierced with spits as best;
Then with all care they roasted and from the fire withdrew,
Automedon o’er the table distributed the bread
-In baskets fair; Achilles, the meat distributed;
And they their hands extended upon the food out-
spread. 625
But when desire for eating and drinking had expired,
Dardanides, King Priam, Achilles great admired:
Such as he was, how mighty; for like a god he dazed.
-In turn on Dardan Priam Achilles looked amazed,
Gazing on his fair visage and hearing what he said. 630
But when, by seeing each other, the twain were satiated,
The old man, godlike Priam, was first to speak and said:
“ Put me to bed most quickly, Zeus-nurtured, that we
. steep
‘Our senses in the solace of sorrow, dulcet sleep.
For -ne’er. beneath my eyelids have my two eyes -been

closed, 635
Since my dear Hektor. perished beneath your hands op-
posed.

Yet I am always weeping while cares unnumbered: burn,
Rolled in my halls’ enclosures, and filth and dust in turn.
BOOK XXIV 525°

But.food I now have tasted, and sparkling wine’s bright

store

Has: passed my throat, which, truly, I tasted not.
before.” 640

Thus spoke he; and Achilles his maids and comrades

bade

Place couches ’neath the portico, and ordered them be :
clad

With beauteous purple coverings and carpets spread *
withal;

Arid: shaggy: cloaks were furnished to draw up over all.
The. maids went from the dwelling, holding a torch in
hand, 645
And quickly spread two couches to answer his command:
Then swift-of-foot Achilles bespoke him with a jest:
“Sleep you outside, dear ancient, lest here you be diss:
tressed
By those Achaian counsellors who always by me sit,
And. there discuss what counsels may serve us and: be
fit. . 650
If-in the swift night sable someone should on you look -:
And tell to Agamemnon, the pastor of the folk,:
There might be a delaying of the ransom of the dead.
But come and tell me plainly and let the truth be said:
How-many days are needed to bury Hektor slain? 655 :
So long will I cease warring and eke the folk restrain.””’
Then ancient godlike Priam 'to him in turn replied:
“Tf, then, you wish me Hektor’s funeral to provide,
You do for me, Achilles, a grateful thing and good..
For you know we are surrounded in the town, far. from «
the wood, 660
Which we must bring from mountains; and much the
Trojans'fear.
Nine days within the palace we’d mourn with grief austere,
The tenth day we would bury and feast the people there; .
And for him on the eleventh a sepulchre prepare,
And battle on the twelfth day, by necessity infest.” 665 :
Divine foot-swift Achilles him, then, in turn addressed:
“ Ag you say, ancient Priam, so shall these matters stand; ;
Fer-I will stop the warring as long as you command.”
526 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

While thus he spoke, the ancient he grasped by the
right hand,
Close by the wrist, that terror should nowise touch his
mind. 670
Then in the dwelling’s vestibule both in sweet sleep re-
clined,
The herald and King Priam, both with a prudent mind.
But Achilles in the alcove of his well-made quarters slept,
While beauteous-cheeked Briseis the place beside him
kept.
The other gods immortal and men, who horses keep,{675
Slept on through all the night-time, o’ermastered by sweet
sleep.
Yet sleep seized not on Hermes, giver of aid at need,
Revolving in his spirit how he might safely lead
King Priam from the vessels and shun the sacred guards.
Above his head he hovered, addressing with these
words: 680
“ Old man, you fear no evil, such slumber you pursue
Among these hostile warriors, since Achilles suffered you.
Your dear son you have ransomed and given a boundless

price;

Your children left behind you might give such ransom
thrice

To rescue you yet living, if Agamemnon knew, 685

2

And all of the Achaians that you were here in view.’
Thus he; th’ old man was frightened and woke the
herald soon;
And Hermes yoked the horses and mules for them anon,
And drove them through the army; and no one was aware.
Yet when they reached the passage of the river flowing
fair, 690
[The Xanthos, filled with eddies, whom deathless Zeus
begot],
Then Hermes turned and left them and great Olympus
sought.
The saffron-vested Morning spread over all the earth,
While they drove on the horses to the city, and sent forth
Deep groaning and lamenting; the mules the body
bore. 695
BOOK XXIV « 527

And no fair-girdled woman or man knew it before;
But now Kassandra, like to gold Venus to the view,
Ascending lofty Pergamos, her cherished father knew
Standing upon the chariot with the herald of the town,
And on the mules saw Hektor upon the litter thrown, 700
Then called to the whole city, wailing tumultuously:
“ Go forth, ye men and women of Troy, and Hektor see,
If ever, while yet living, you joyed at his return
From war; for to the city and folk great joy was borne.’
Thus she; nor in the city was left a man withal, 705
Nor woman; but a sorrow, too heavy, came o’er all.—
But they met near the portals the man who brought the

2)

dead,

And first his cherished consort and reverenced mother
shred

Their hair, while they were rushing upon the well-wheeled
car,

Touching the head; the concourse stood weeping round
him there. 710

And now, in‘sooth, the people till the sun sank in the main
Had wailed before the portals and wept for Hektor slain,
Had not the old man spoken to the people from the wain:

“Yield, so the mules may pass you; but afterward,

indeed,
You shall be sate with weeping, when home the dead I
lead.” 715

Thus he; and they disparted and yielded to the wain.
They brought to the famed mansions, and placed the body
then
Upon a couch well-laboured, and placed the singers nigh,
The leaders of the dirges, who chanted drearily
Dirge mixed with lamentations; the women wailed

‘beside. 720
With them white-armed Andromaché began the wailing
wide,

Holding in hand the head of great Hektor homicide.
“My lord, in youth you perished and left me in your
house
A widow weak, behind you and son yet tender thus,
Whom you and I, unhappy, gave life; and he, I trow, 725
528. THE ILIAD .OF HOMER

Will ne’er attain his manhood ere the city is laid. low,

From its hight. For you, its guardian, are dead who kept.
in ward,

And o’er its honoured consorts and children small held
guard.

But to the hollow vessels these women soon will fare,

And I with them; you, offspring, will go beside me
there, 730°.

And there unseemly labour yourself must undergo,

Working for a hard master; or some Achaian will throw,

Seizing you, from a turret to ruin sad and sore,

In anger for a brother whom Hektor slew before, ._

Or son, perchance, or father; since many Achaians in

death. 735:
Beneath the hands of Hektor seized broad earth with their
teeth.

For your father was not gentle in the destructive fray;
Thus the people in the city lament for him to-day..
Youbrought upon your parents unmeasured grief and woe,
Hektor; but bitter sorrows chiefly upon me flow. —_740, :
You did not reach in dying your hands from bed to me,:
Nor told me words of solace, which aye in memory
I might retain with weeping through every night and day.”
Thus spoke she, and lamented; the women. wailed

dismay.
Amid them next Queen Hekuba her boundless. wail
begun: 745

“ Hektor, within my spirit most loved of every son,
While you for me were living, the gods approved your
ath, .

And fe. in truth, watched o’er you even in fate and
scath.

For fleet-of-foot Achilles my other children sold

Beyond the. barren Ocean (whoe’er his might con-
trolled), 750

To Samos or to Imbros or Lemnos harbourless, .

He afterwards deprived you of life with long-edged brass,

And dragged you very often around his comrade’s tomb,

Patroklos’, whom you slaughtered; this saved him not
from doom.
BOOK XXIV 529.

Now in the halls before me, fresh-slain, with ruddy
glow, 755
You lie like one whom Phoebus, lord of the silver bow,
With gentle shafts attacking, has slain among his. foes.”
Thus spoke she in her weeping; and boundless wailing
rose.
The third among them, Helen, began the cry of dole:
“ Hektor, of all my brothers-in-law the dearest to my
soul,— 760
True, godlike Alexander by marriage is allied,
Who led me here to Troja—would that ere this I died!
And now for me already the twentieth year is spanned,
Since I came here among you and left my fatherland.
I never heard you speaking a harsh or evil word; 765
If in the halls some other opprobrious speech preferred,—
A son or daughter of Priam, or son’s wife in fair attire,
Or Hekuba (for Priam was ever mild like sire),
Then you restrained them ever by speeches which you

made,
And by your manly kindness and gentle words con-
veyed. 770
Thus, grieved at heart, I mourn you and myself unfor-
tunate;

For none else is kind and gentle to me in Ilion great;
Yet all look on me harshly, and all abominate.”
Thus spoke she in her weeping; in groans the great
crowd broke.
Then to the folk old Priam these wavering accents
spoke: 775
“ Draw wood now to the city, Trojans, nor fear in mind
The Argives’ dense-set ambush, for Achilles thus en-
joined,
When from the sable vessels he sent me to my home:
That there should be no warring till the twelfth morn
should come.”
Thus he; and mules and oxen they yoked to wagons
reat, 780
And brought them all together before the city’s gate.
Then for nine days they gathered unbounded wood for
flame;
530 THE ILIAD OF HOMER

But when upon the tenth day light-bearing Morning came,

They bore forth daring Hektor, with weeping, to the pyre,

On the lofty pyre the body they placed and cast in fire. 785

While rosy-fingered Eos, the Dawning’s daughter,

flamed,

So long the people gathered round the pyre of Hektor
famed.

[But when they were assembled in multitude entire],

They first of all extinguished those portions of the pyre

(With dark wine) which the vigour of sparkling flame
yet vexed. 790

His brothers and companions his white bones gathered
next,

With grief, and tears abundant rolled down their cheeks
forlorn.

But, gathering, they placed them within a golden urn,

Wrapped in soft cloths of purple, entwined in many a fold.

Then placed in excavation and quickly o’er it rolled 795

Many a stone gigantic to guard the fosse profound,

And piled the barrow quickly, and stationed spies around,

Lest the well-greaved Achaians too soon should make
attack.

But when they’d heaped the barrow again they hastened
back,

And, when they were assembled, a splendid feast they
made, 800

Which in the halls of Priam, the Zeus-bred king, was laid.

Thus were the funeral honours to horse-taming Hektor

paid.
APPENDIX.
‘MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 533

From the Persian.

‘GHAZEL.

Every night on earth before thy palace ‘lying,
Every day beholds me prostrate, for thee sighing;
Cherished girl, desert not since my heart is broken;
Long, O long I loved thee—on my hope relying;
Though my bones be shattered in my waiting,
Still my wounded heart retains its love undying.
Emir Cuosru.

From the Hindustani.

LIFE.

What is the semblance, the form which you wear, Life?
Like a bubble you seem wherever you fare, Life,
You pass in our eyes with the speed of a vision,
The changeable face of the waters you bear, Life;
From you come pain and distress and disaster,
Venomous waters you were, but being:you share, ‘Life,
Calling with voice sounding loud a thousand of changes
Long do you suffer.and wither with cankering care, Life.

From the Arabic.

How fair the dainty natal gifts of thy possessing,

O thou whom with his breath the North Wind sways—
Drunken with love, moved by thy lover’s glance caress-

ing—

So in the gentle breeze the tender ‘floweret plays;
Thou dost not ‘speak, yet words thine eyes are gleaming,

O thou—with whom I must in love wage bitter strife—
O who can fathom all their mystic. meaning ?

O would that I might win thy love with life!

BoHAEDDIN.
534 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

From the Hebrew.

PHARAOH’S HORSEMEN.

There is tumult afar on the land,
An uproar and humming and cry,

And the eye cannot measure the band
Whose like is not seen “neath the sky.

The throng is dispersed, and the lords
Are destroyed while the men call in prayer;
There is death without clashing of swords,
And wailing and want and despair.

I am filled with desire to depart,
To wander abroad through the land,
To forsake all most dear to my heart,

Though fleeing with staff in my hand.

Mine eyes have been cleansed so I gaze
On the noisy destruction of men;

All trembles and melts in the maze,
And the mighty are weaklings again.

The sands roll above them and lave,
Their bodies are white in the spray;

This answers their call, and the wave
And distress and despair disarray.

Who are they who thus feast on the sand?
Go, ask of the orators wise,
The seers who this vintage command,

Though the lotions of death fill their eyes.

The horseman laments for his might,
The gray-haired is raised and secure,
The hand of the feeble is light,
And the living are faithful and pwre.

I gazed on the horsemen with fear,
They were many and sought objects vain,
Want and wounds in their vision appear,

When the Lord proclaims glory or bane.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 535

The people of Israel sigh

Till the horsemen are smit by the Lord;—
Heap the altar with sacrifice high,

Sing salvation and safety restored.

L. G.

From the Turkish.
LINES.

Her frenzied love—a mirrored world—
It did not need,

A ruling mind from chaos hurled
It did not need;

My love had cast the only spell
Which she would heed,

To triumph over Ismael
There was no need.

Her glance like arrow at bird’s heart
Was sent with speed,

For curl to take the arrow’s part
There was no need;

The first king o’er his kindred swayed
Ere more would heed,

Of ruler whom none had obeyed
There was no need.

Her constancy was flaming sighs,
Let others heed;

No stranger could her worth apprize,
There was no need.

SABRI SHAKIR.

From the Hungarian.

SONG OF REPROACH.

Daughter of a noble line,

Tall in form, in face divine;

Pearls and raiment lend her grace,

Fairer yet than all her face;—
What avails it, if untrue?
536

MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

Eyes like sloes, with starry rays,

Love’s signs building as they gaze;

In her glances flames arise,

Like the lightning of the skies;—
What avails it, if untrue?

Neck like alabaster spread,

Parted lips and rosy red,

Dainty chin like marble’s glow,

Shoulders purer than the snow;—
What avails it, if untrue?

Fair at rest, in motion fair,
With a laugh or with a tear,
Fair when sitting, fair when biding,
Bending knee or gaily riding;—
What avails it, if untrue ?

Jesting, talking, when she flatters,
When her honeyed words she scatters,—
Smiling much with smiles to greet,
She is each and all complete;—
What avails it, if untrue?
Faun.

From the Finnish.

SERPENT INCANTATION.

Mama, serpent mixed with venom,
Earthly salmon, slippery salmon,
Golden flaming, ground-a-going,

At Love’s leaflet’s foot a-lying,
Whiplash under ruins lying,

Roll at root of tree stumps lying!
Tangle art thou, tangle truly,

Roll thou art, a roll assuredly,

Such as suits smooth-handed striking,
Such as fitting found for finger.
Molten-mouthed, head-hidden mama,
With the tongue retracted quickly,
Wooly mouthed and wooly headed,
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 537

Little locks of wool thy venom,

Little lock of wool thyself art;

Withered with a head all swollen,
Venomed with a head envenomed;
Head upraised in all directions,

With a head resembling Ukko,

With a cloud of drops a-dripping,
With a hail of iron hailing.

KANTELE.

From the Greek.
We are such as the leaves which start in the many-flow-
ered springtime,
Suddenly quickened they grow, forced by the rays of
the sun.
Like these for a span we rejoiced in the flowers of our
youth and our pleasures,
Knowing naught of the gods, neither for good nor forill;
But ever the Fates, black-clad and abounding in care
stood beside us,
This holding out for a bourne age and the sorrows of
age;
The nt of another held death, and the fruit of our
youth was the smallest,
While with his billows of light Helios passed over the
earth.
But, when the bound of this age is attained and past in
the changing,
Better is death and an end, better than life with its cares;
Evil and evil corrode till the soul bears illy the burden,
Wealth is gone in the wear, poverty comes bringing pain;
One of the children is lacking, the best one of all and the
dearest,
Leaving the earth, he goes down, dwelling in Hades’
abode;
Another is smitten, his mind struck by disease bearing
madness;—
No one of mortals there is whom Zeus strikes not with
evil amain.
MIMNERMUS.
538 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

From Modern Greek.
THE LAST DRYAD.

A thousand wasting winters have mocked my ringlets
green,
Yet when the spring is smiling again my buds are seen,
I bloom once more.
So far the earlier seasons from those which later came
Are lying that I know not if I am still the same
I was of yore.
Who calls aloud with greeting? Do] yet hear the strain
Of one of my loved sisters? No; ’tis the wind’s refrain,
My oak-tree sighs.
O wretch! You have forgotten you have outlived your
fate
Unlawfully; the breezes your hoary years debate
And ills devise.
Once when men’s generations rose high in power and
pride,
Hunters and rustic woodmen ruled o’er these forests wide
With woven snare.
Then from his dusky cavern the beast made timid way,
Since not so brave and mighty Apollo was as they,
So fleet to fare.
The conquering youth no quarry but inoffensive knew,
And all the wounds he suffered concealed from human
view,
Whate’er shaft wrought.
And for the breathless dryad who ambushed there might
be—
Alas!—for such the puissance of her divinity
Availed her naught! -
When such beneath my shadow with keen desiring stayed
To feel the breeze refreshing, out of my leafy shade,
I fanned the while!
He was for me more pleasing than rude Tituri are,
Who with unseemly prating my sense of hearing jar,
That they defile!
J. Karassutsas.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 539
From the Dutch.

Friend! You who stand this ditch beside,
For you it seems a bit too wide;
And now before you take the spring,
Consider well about the thing,
Consider if you know the ground,
Consider well the water’s bound;
But, worthy man, before the whole,
Look to the measure of your pole,
For great attempt with little thought
And, without measuring, to vault,
And things above one’s power to search—
That leaves full many in the lurch.

Cats.

From the German.
AMALIA’S SONG.

Fair as angel full of Valhal’s rapture,
Fairer yet than any youth was he,
Heavenly mild his glance like sun in Maytime
Back reflected from the azure glassy sea.

His embraces—rapturously burning!—
Fiery throbs by heart to heart were given,

Mouth and ear were fettered—night before our vision—
And the dizzy soul was swept to heaven.

Kisses which he gave me—heavenly feeling—
Like two flames which inter-grasping rise,

Like harp tones which harmonize together
With their concord filling Paradise.

Bounded, flew with frenzy soul and soul together,
Lips and cheeks were trembling as they burned,

Spirit ran in spirit—earth and heaven
Swimming, meltine round the lovers turne,
540 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

He is gone—in vain, alas! how vainly
Sounds the pallid moaning of reply;
He is gone and all of life and gladness
Quavers out in a despairing sigh.
SCHILLER,

From the Swedish.
THE EVENING.

Be welcome, be welcome, bright even,
Thou silent and joy-giving guest,

Let my cares to the zephyrs be given,
Thou mak’st me so glad and so blest.

An angel with glittering winging,
Thou floatest from heaven below,
Thou peace to the living art bringing,

And coolness on earth dost bestow.

Thou stand’st ’twixt the day and the shadows
And speakest the words which ally,

And, fair in the mirroring waters,
Thou meltest the earth and the sky.

Thou sow’st thy gold o’er the oaks’ bosoms,
Where the blue-tinted mountains appear,

Mildly quicken’st the bud of the blossoms
With the dew-drop’s balsamical tear.

And the birds glad and free in the even,
Whom hoping yet never belied,

They warble their praises to Heaven,
In the vale, mount or wood where they bide.

What matter that Twilight is bearing
Her veil? She is friendly to lore.

What matters the sun’s disappearing?
He will come on the morrow once more.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 541

On the purple-hued cloud he is shining;
*Tis the hope of the dead to arise;
For, after his western declining,
He floats through the Orient skies.

Now our cares to the zephyrs be given,
Our hut by thy watching is blest,
Be welcome and welcome, bright even,
Thou silent and joy-giving guest.
NICANDER.

From the Danish.
BARCAROLA.

Tossing billow, though thou semblest
Limpid, liquid, clear or blue,
Heaven’s choir of tints thou borrow’st,
But thou hast no proper hue.
Heaven, no, but Heaven’s image
Dwells within thy darkling breast;
Never is thy longing quiet,—
’Tis eternal—like thy unrest.

Billow, where thou run’st most clearly,
Heaven is mirrored in thy tides,
But thy longing brings to memory
What relentless Fate divides,
Heart, thou must not yield to sorrow
Even Nature owns its claim;—
Comfort take if there is left thee
But an image and a name.
He1Bere.
542 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

From the Icelandic.

THE BATTLE IN HAFURSFJORD.

Heardst thou how in Hafursfjord a heavy battle
Fought the kin-great king with K jot, the Wealthy?
Ships sailed from the eastward, seeking battle,
Having gaping beaks and graven carving.

Head-bands had the crews and whitened bucklers,
Having warlike Welsh and Western falchions;
Barked and yelped berserkirs, blithe in spirit,
Howled those in wolf hides and gold-hid iron.

Far the foremost fought those flying from them,

Th’ all-strong king of th’ Eastmen dwelt at Utstein;
Still they stood a space, a truce in warring,

Helms and shields were hewed when Haklangur fell.

Then the king was led ’fore Lufa land to seize on,
Pierced through throat, the battle field was buckler,
Slain beneath the row-seats were the wounded,
Slain by rear-keel, stabbed by forward portion.

Shone on shore the lofty cliffs stone-shining,

Odin’s arching hall of shields they augured;

Stung in soul, they ran forth from the sea-shore

Home from Hafursfjord and high mead drinking.
SNoRRo.

From Anglo-Saxon.

THE SONG OF SIMEON.

Let now, O Lord, let now thy servant
Out of this world wander,

As thou hast promised, and die in peace;
Now let me die, without delay;

Here came in sight full clearly
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 543

Thy Saviour Christ on earth
That, through thee, mercy be wrought
Among all peoples,
To heathen lands the light and life
Of righteousness eternal.
OrMuULUM.

From the Spanish.
THE BRIEF DURATION OF LIFE.

Declare, O Spring, where are thy graceful blossoms,
Where are the fruits by burning Summer given?

Who has the favours ripe from Autumn’s bosom,
Her tributes, riven ?

The changes of such seasons—born for parting—
In gulfs of nothingness have hid their faces;
Time flies and, with his precious gifts departing,

Leaves scanty traces.

The tender bud kissed by the chilly morning,,

At noon, whose course hastes on with moments flying,
A rose shines forth but, with the night returning,

Already dying.

How swiftly go the sorrows laid by duty,
How quickly passes on all joyance fleeing!
Such is, O youth, such is all grace and beauty,

Such is our being.
Metcuior Diaz pe ToLepo.
544 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

From the Italian.
TO MYSELF.

Now shalt thou rest forever,
My wearied heart; the last deceit has perished
Which made me seem immortal. It died,
And well I feel the dear deception in me,
Not that the hope, the wish has gone.
Repose forever; enough
Thou palpitatedst. Nothing worth
Thy motions are, nor has the earth the value
Of sighs; and life is bitterness, annoyance,
Never was more; the world is dust.
Now be thou still. Despair
This time, the last. Fate gave our kind
No gift but this—to die. At length
Nature, who rules for common injury,
That brutal hidden force, despises thee,
And th’ infinite vanity of all.

LEoPARDI.

From the French.
THE WINDOW OF MY ANCESTRAL HOME.

About the roof which saw us born
A grape vine spreads its branches fair;
Its fruit around the window borne
Enticed the little birds of air.

My mother stretched her hand of snow
And seized the grapes of honied leaven,

And her small children sucked the bough
They offered to the birds of heaven.

The bird is not, our mother died,
The vine is yellow, old and sere,

And winter’s herbs the portal hide—
I think of all with many a tear.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 545

’T is that the vine has been enlaced
With memories of my cradled home,
And on my soul a thought has traced
That it should cluster o’er my tomb.
LAMARTINE.

From the Provencal.
DANCE OF LOVE WITH A REFRAIN.

For which the floral prize was adjudged to Master Peyre
Vilamut, Bachelor of Laws, 1465.

Night and day, within my spirit
I can curb my joy in naught,
When I think upon the merit
Of the flower which wakens thought.

In my youth my love began
Mortal joyance to inspire;
I was burned so by the fire
That I suffered grievous pain
Mortal dolour and disdain,
And no other thinking sought,
Than that of the gentle chain
Of the flower which wakens thought.

He, a as! cannot take part
Who is not by dolour thrilled
With which love is ever filled,
Who sees not my wounded heart,
Feeling woe and full of anguish,
Which in grieving ceases naught,
So its wishes fail and languish
For the flower which wakens though,
546

MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

Praying humbly, head inclined,
Listening fain to my desire,
Better means I do not find
For my joy to be entire;
There’s no being who has known,
Better means has ever sought
Or surpassed the princess lone
Of the flower which wakens thought,

My white blossom is the best,

O’er all others near her brought;
Give me th’ aid and guidance blest
Of the flower which wakens thought. '

PEYRE DE VILAMUR,

From the Portuguese.

ANACREONTIC.

O lovely Marilla,
Thou model for Graces,

Who thousands of raptures
Inflam’st and enlacest,

The one whom thy tenderest
Charm animates,

Is the terror of lovers,
But loved by the Fates;

If flattered thou hear’st him
When he breathes a sigh,

To the Heaven of lovers
Delay not to fly.

Dost thou know not the wandering
Spirit of men,

That he who has loved much
Loves not much again?

Barsosa pu Bocace.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 547

From the Roumanian.

RODICA.

Bearing a jar filled with radiant water

On her white shoulders whose dimples enchain,
Maiden Rodica with smiling and laughter

Goes through the groups of young sowers of grain.

Running in haste on her footsteps they follow,
Crying: “ Rodica, thou lily-flower dear,
Sated with fulness be all of thy wishes,
As now with full vessel thou com’st to us here.

“ Soon as a bride, mayst thou revel in gladness,
Many a flower o’er thy pathway be strewn,

Homelike, thy house, and thy table, well covered,
Thy bosom, a cradle for child of thine own.”

While thus they call, grains of corn they fling o’er her,
Drinking the water abundant and fair;
Laughs then the maiden and goes on her pathway,
Shaking the kernels of corn from her hair.
V. ALEXANDRI.

From the Latin.
CATO AT THE ORACLE OF JUPITER AMMON.

Full of the god whom he swayed in the depths of his echo-
less spirit,

He poured from his bosom these words, well worthy of
shrine and of altar:

“What do you bid me then seek, Labienus? Should

I in battle

Seek like a freeman to fall or gaze on a despot’s do-
minion ?

Is there, then, nothing in life, e’en if long? Can one’s
age be protracted?

Is there a power which injures the good? Does Fortune
destroy when
548 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

Virtue opposes her menace? Is’t enough to desire what
is noble?

Does the right never grow with success? We know well,
and Ammon

Never will give to us loftier counsels than these. We alt
worship

Heaven abcve! and e’en if the temple is silent we venture

Nothing when Ged is unwilling ; He never lacks voices
to teach us.

Erst to his children the Author disclosed what was fit for
their knowledge ;

Nor did he gather the sands of the desert to sing to few
only,

Covering truth with this dust. But God has his throne
where is ocean,

Heaven and the earth and the air and high virtue. Why
do we seek for :

Gods who are higher? Jupiter is whatever you see,
whatever you touch.”

Lucan.

From the Russian.
IN SIBERIA.

In caverns of Siberian mines
Ye, haughty sufferers, abide;

Your grievous labour ne’er declines,
Your lofty souls lose not their pride.

The faithful sister of your sufferings,
Hope, in the subterrain austere,

Courage and virtue gives and brings
The longed-for time of freedom near.

Friendship and love draw near to you,
E’en through the darkness of your bars,

As my free voice the ward breaks through
Which from your lodge of toil debars.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 549

Your heavy chains will fall, the shade
Will fly, and Liberty restored
You joying to the gates will aid,—
Your brethren give to you a sword.
PusukIN.

From the Polish.
CUPID.

Once with hand in gauntlet dressed
Cupid sported on my breast ;
Then upon my neck he hung,
Showed to me two shafts divine ;
What is there they have not stung,
Be the bosom mine or thine?

There’s no need of shafts for me,
Boy, too many twain would be ;
There’s another for thy wile ;
When the cruel passes by
I will stop by her awhile ;—
Strike me mirrored in her eye.
TREMBECKI.

From the Ruthenian.

SONG OF THE SPRING.

A very small flower

To its mother mace moan
Early in springtime :

“O mother, my own,
Answer mv wishes,

My fate do thou heed :
So that I blossom

And deck all the mead ;
So I become like

The sun shining clear,
Like a star in its beauty,

And all earth appear

Around me in love.”
550 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

“My daughter, my dove,
Now thou bring’st me distress,

O beautiful love,

For the cold will oppress,

The storm will bring wrack,
And thy beauty will go,

Thy face will be black,
And thy head will bend low,

Thy leaves will be lost,

And thy heart by pain tost.””

SHASHKEVITCH.

,
From the Slavenic.

BY MOONLIGHT.

Moon, so dearly cherished,
Where did she depart?
Where is now the dear one,
Mistress of my heart ?

Does she think upon me,
Or did she o’ersee

That she promised fairly
But to live for me?

Waken, Love, awaken,
To thy window go,

Blithely look upon me,
Waken, waken, ho!

She is at the window,
Gazes smilingly,
Gives to me a rosebud,
Gathered but for me
VILFAR.
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 551
THE DESTRUCTION OF THE MAINE.

The lands of sun and summer to-day are themes for song,
And shapes evolved in beauty, defiled by hate and wrong ;
Where isles—their only equal—caressing waves enfold,
So diamonds flame and sparkle through links of flashing
gold.
Greed broke the ocean’s portal and traced the pathless
main,
And led to crimes immortal the ruthless hordes of Spain ;
And far and wide her banner o’er vanquished earth they
bore,
And stamped her crimson title upon the sea and shore,
And left their heirs a portion, boundless in pride and sway,
Not fearing foeman’s menace—untouched by foul decay.
Decay and shame o’ershadow the holds of tyranny,
The foe will come unbidden, whoe’er the warder be ;
And, binding triple fetters, the web is drawn in vain,
For, tangled in the meshes, the slave will break the chain ;
And newer stains will darken the banquet floors of old,
Where brutes their frenzied revels in fiery ruins hold ;
The shackle’s deadly canker has left a poisoned scar,
And brow and bosom branded have made them what
they are ;
Look not for festal joyance, but woe, and death, and bane,
When, mangled by his lashes, the bondman bursts his
chain.

And land by land to freedom was gained by years of war,

By men who proudly followed the lead of Bolivar ;

Though still the timid islands the Spanish sceptre bore—

A weight of vast oppression—till man could serve no more;

And, springing from its scabbard, the sword of war was
dyed,

And flame consumed the valley and scarred the mountain-
side,

And life and death commingled in ghastly dreams passed
by,

As death were pause in battle, and life were doomed to die
552 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

The year brings back the summer, and May with spring
returns,

But war the mountain darkens, and to the ocean burns ;

The cry of anguish rises, the clouds return the call,

For man, in crime forgetting, heeds not the weak who fall;

And hunger, vulture-hearted, the faint and feeble tears,

And pestilence, undying, with yellow visage glares ;

And man, by tortures shaken, begs life with failing breath,

And woman, shame-polluted, calls out to heaven for
death ;

And where the sword avails not, the dagger’s lurking blow

Smites in the dusky shadow the bravest of the foe ;

And through the din and clamour is heard the clanking
chain,

Stilled when they hasten homeward—the baffled wolves
of Spain.

The Maine swung at her moorings—lit from the sky and
wave,

Clad in the lavish splendour the tropic moonlight gave ;

The waters rose and rippled, caught by the vagrant air,

And sparkled in the motion as love and peace were there ;

The sound of song and laughter came from the misty
shore,

And Moro’s mossy arches their joyous echoes bore ;

The silver hours in passing were tied with cords of gold ;

Night slumbered—but her visions no brooding ill foretold.

They woke in flame and havoc—but not the brave who
died —

The battle sword ungirded, the battle stroke untried ;

Death flamed in fiery arches, death lit the crater’s glow,

Death blazed upon the surges which broke the deeps
below ;

Night and the darkness lighted—the shades returned
again,

And from their bosom sounded the sobbing shriek of pain,

The voice of frantic terror borne from the wave and sky,

A wail wrenched from the dying—from those who could

hi. “not die ;
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 553

A moment courage wavered, by icy doubt enthralled,
The blood flowed faint and faltered, in deep amaze

appalled;

Then sounded through the tumult their leader’s calm
command,

And silent in the shadows their sinking decks they
manned;

As cool as when the sunlight o’er stormless ocean smiles,

In night, in death, in horror, they ranked their meas-
ured files;

Not life—the trust and duty entailed to human power,

They struggled for and guarded in that tremendous hour.

The debt to priceless valour no nation’s treasure pays,

When gold is weighed with honour, a people’s life decays;

The fervour soaring onward has passed the zenith line,

The hopes of youth have parted to waste in base decline;

Our fathers answered outrage in accents stern and
bold,

And blow with blow resented, nor bartered blood for gold;

Do we delay and balance the cost of good or ill,

While rust corrodes in slumber the sword of Bunker Hill,

And winds and waters scatter the shreds of brothers
slain,

Torn by the foul assassins—the craven brood of Spain ?

Call to the Judge of Battles! Till then no tear be shed,

Strike for the nation’s honour! Avenge the murdered
dead!

THE BATTLE OF MANILA.

Heirs to the sea-kings’ might
Under the burning sky!

Death fires flare out through the night,
And death-stars sparkle and die;

Storm wreathes float out from thejjland,
Fire gusts break in from the sea,

And the waves shiver back from the strand,
And the shore shudders stark as they flee.
554 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

Night echoes in sound, and the ships
Flame fierce in tumultuous glow,
Fast and hot from the cannon’s red lips
Fly their shots to the ranks of the foe;
And the gale sweeps apace from the main,
Fort and ship answer loud to the call,
Flash crowding on flash as they wane,
Bolt pressing on bolt as they fall.

Vast reaches of ocean in vain
The lands of sworn foemen divide,
Hot vengeance will traverse the main,
And hatred will pass o’er the tide;
The hour and the path may be long,
By Time in his windings delayed,
But requital will follow the wrong
While the sunlight is followed by shade.

And the storm breaks in anger once more,
A whirlwind of death in its sway—

And destruction bursts prone o’er the shore
And sweeps wreck and wreckage away;

And a fire clears the deck, and the flood
Yawns wide for the bark battle-scarred,

And the gushes of flame tinged by blood
O’er the swart silent corpses hold guard.

And Ruth has no accents for prayer,
And Mercy no pleading to hold,
For the shades of dim Furies are there—
A remembrance of forms dank and cold—
A remembrance of shadow and night
Tllumined by havoc and flame,
And tablets of ruin and blight
Engraved by the finger of Shame.
: MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 555

No stay but despair’s frantic cry,
No aid but the suppliant hand,
And the fire of the forts waste and]die,
And the ships dash in wrack on the strand;
Yet the stars in the bright banner glow
Far out o’er the wild eastern main
With the luster they shed long ago
O’er the shards of the slave’s shattered chain.

High deeds! and the heroes’of old
Never gathered more fairly won bays,
And the songs which their valour has told
May well be attuned to such praise;
And lays shall be sung for this deed
While songs of remembrance shall be,
And man to high daring bears meed,
And men go in ships on the sea.

THE LOUISIANA PURCHASE.

Time moves in mystic cycles! No sage or seer could show
What gems the future guarded one hundred years ago;
The shadowy germ was hidden which, fed by light and air,
For other days and nations transcendent fruit would bear.
The miser’s golden talent, wrapped by the fruitful earth,
Exists, though lost in slumber, but knows no future birth;
The desert’s withered reaches in death’s occlusion lie,
Till floods of living water revive and vivify.

A warrior, vexed by battle where crown and realm were
lost,

Sold for a mess of pottage this pearl of countless cost.

What though the fertile acres lay waste in solitude,

And silent rivers wandered through barren plain and
wood?

The wealth bestowed by Nature on vale and mountain
lone

Awaited but a master to claim and make his own;

Thus in their rocky chambers the limpid waves abode

Till Moses smote the granite, and streams of water
flowed.
556 MISCELLANEOUS POEMS

This is the land we purchased, and fair and wide it lies,

Where clouds obscured by Winter float in the leaden skies

Down to the lands of Summer whose throne is ever near,

Where’er the changing Seasons may guide the fickle
Year.

Far to the west it stretches upon the Ocean’s shores,

Along its eastern border an ample river pours.

No man can count the treasures its mountain caverns
lock,

The gems and shining metal hid in the stubborn rock,

The wealth of garnered harvests which other lands sus-
tain,

The many herds which wander upon the grassy plain,

The towns and cities builded where’er the need may be,

The farms which stretch from mountain to river and to sea.

This is not all I pledge you! There is a nobler birth;
Man has an earthly nature, but is not all of earth;
Though sunk in sordid pleasures, debased by low desire,
His soul is yet illumined by sparks of deathless fire;

The wealth of earth must perish—enjoy it as we may—
But Virtue does not lessen and will not pass away,

And Truth and sacred Freedom, who to her will defer,
Will offer boundless honour to those who honour her.

Now, as the varied picture with searching eyes you scan,

Forget the gold and treasure and turn your gaze on man.

This is the wealth we cherish—though all but this be
lost—

They bear the torch of freedom till day by night is
crossed;

They guard the nation’s altars, the nation’s honour keep,

And if they fail from weakness, there will be tears to weep.

The men who till the prairies or scale the mountains bold

Abuse resplendent treasures or turn the dust to gold?

A country blest by Nature with every charm and grace

Becomes an arid desert, curst by a servile race;

But wrong and lies are fleeting, though decked with splen-
did lure,

And Virtue, born of Freedom, and Truth alone endure;
MISCELLANEOUS POEMS 557

Gold, won by Fraud, brings foulness and poison where
it bides,—

Though pomp and flowers conceal it, it cankers where it
hides,

It stains the snowy marble and rots the sculptured scroll,

And saps the strength of manhood and blights the loftiest
soul.

Then scorn such passing treasures, ill kept by bolts and
bars,

And lift your eyes to heaven and gaze upon the stars;

Take heed that men are worthy to dwell in lands like
these,

That they are wed with women, pure as the circling seas,

That Love and Truth and Honour are comrades by the
way,

And that their path is upward till night is lost in day.

These be your blazing jewels, and never diadem

Flamed with a richer luster nor held so fair a gem.

What wealth from earth you ravish will not repay your
trust,

Its bonds are earth and earthy and fall to slime and dust;

Carve not your lasting message on metal nor on stone,—

These stand a space, then perish, for Earth will claim her
own.

Let all your high endeavours to human hearts be told,

And let them hoard the secrets prophetic lips unfold;

And Memory’s deathless tables will hold them while the
light

Sweeps back the crowding shadows of old eternal night,

And keep the fiery traces while night and storm flit by,

For man was born immortal, and spirit does not die.

THE END.