' VOLUME I JOHANN WOLFGANG VON GOETHE THE GERMAN ( Masterpieces of G rature TRANSLATED II GOETHE AT WEIMAR patron* IN TWENTY THE GERKi j[-W, th? I'aMng by Wilhelrn von Kaulbac JiTA *o. "as the town's I most She was twenty The gift on which jry- telling, mg wu. its. ill strain i blood . precise and - ' a desire to 'ost of i who liked nothing else so tnd commane with the sp nation. Hf- also a^ is that his on the wfc' grew to n won I by him. He in I ' had & for friendship. 1* not always e.be h, particularly, fee was often mof WWKWQMS^Fm&ISRft* - from what i- olescence. This was a ph* al ftensitivenoss and nervous ins ; i.wa>-s a part of the poet's dower. rrew up in a wholesome atmo for* -iinement. He nover knew the t On the o rid, he was nc - day he di^ At r privat a the boy studied Lati >ch, i, and pick> little Italian I -lessons. J Frankfurt was occ army, and a F house was the diversion of the of In the interest A-as all. go to the theatre, and he made rapid progress that he was soon studying tl:< r n - wnfe &Ttem*tn4f? WitfAfhe was left mwh to himself, so that ke bad tii; vplore Frankfurt to his heart's THE LIFE OF GOETHE 3 content. He was much in contact with people of the humbler sort and learned to like their racy dialect. He penetrated into the ghetto and learned the jargon of the Jews. He even attacked biblical Hebrew, being led thereto by his great love of the Old Testament. It was his boyish ambition to become a great poet. His favorite amusement was a puppet-show, for which he invented elaborate plays. From his tenth year on he wrote a great deal of verse, early acquiring technical facility and local renown and coming to regard himself as a " thunderer." He attempted a polyglot novel, also a biblical tale on the subject of Joseph, which he destroyed on observing that the hero did nothing but pray and weep. "When he was ready for the university he wished to go to Gottingen to study the old humanities, but his father was bent on making a lawyer of him. So it came about that some ten years of his early life were devoted, first as a student and then as a practitioner, to a reluctant and half- hearted grapple with the intricacies of Holy Roman law. At the age of sixteen Goethe entered the University of Leipzig, where he remained about three years. The law lectures bored him and he soon ceased to attend them. The other studies that he took up, especially logic and philosophy, seemed to him arid and unprofitable mere conventional verbiage without any bed-rock of real knowl- edge. So he presently fell into that mood of disgust with academic learning which was afterwards to form the key- note of Faust. Outside the university he found congenial work in Oeser's drawing-school. Oeser was an artist of no great power with the brush, but a genial man, a friend of Winckelmann, and an enthusiast for Greek art. Goethe learned to admire and love him, and from this time on, for some twenty years, his constant need of artistic expression found hardly less satisfaction in drawing from nature than in poetry. His poetic ambition received little encouragement in uni- versity circles. Those to whom he read his ambitious 4 THE GERMAN CLASSICS verses made light of them. The venerated Gellert, himself a poet of repute, advised the lad to cultivate a good prose style and look to his handwriting. No wonder that he despaired of his talent, concluded that he could never be a poet, and burnt his effusions. A maddening love-affair with his landlady's daughter, Anna Katharina Schonkopf, revived the dying lyric flame, and he began to write verses in the gallant erotic vein then and there fashionable verses that tell of love-lorn shepherds and shepherdesses, give sage advice to girls about keeping their innocence, and moralize on the ways of this wicked world. They show no signs of lyric genius. His short-lived passion for Annette, as he called her, whom he tormented with his jealousy until she lost patience and broke off the intimacy, was also responsible for his first play, Die Laune des Verliebten, or The Lover's Wayward Humor. It is a pretty one-act pastoral in alexandrine verse, the theme being the punishment of an over- jealous lover. What is mainly sig- nificant in these Leipzig poetizings is the fact that they grew out of genuine experience. Goethe had resolved to drop his ambitious projects, such as Belshazzar, and coin his own real thoughts and feelings into verse. Thus early he was led into the way of poetic " confession." In the summer of 1768 he was suddenly prostrated by a grave illness an internal hemorrhage which was at first thought to portend consumption. Pale and languid he re- turned to his father's house, and for several months it was uncertain whether he was to live or die. During this period of seclusion he became deeply interested in magic, alchemy, astrology, cabalism, and all that sort of thing. He even set up a kind of alchemist's laboratory to search experimentally for the panacea. Out of these abstruse studies grew Faust's wonderful dream of an ecstatic spirit- life to be attained by natural magic. Of course the menace of impending death drew his thoughts in the direction of religion. Among the intimate friends of the family was the devout Susanna von Klettenberg, one of the leading THE LIFE OF GOETHE 5 spirits in a local conventicle of the Moravian Brethren. This lady afterwards immortalized as the 1 1 beautiful soul " of Wilhelm Meister tried to have the sick youth make his peace with God in her way, that is, by accepting Christ as an ever-present personal saviour. While he never would admit a conviction of sin he envied the calm of the saintly maiden and was so far converted that he attended the meetings of the Brethren, took part in their com- munion service, and for a while spoke the language of a devout pietist. This religious experience of his youth bit deep into Goethe 's character. He soon drifted away from the pietists and their ways, he came to have a poor opinion of priests and priestcraft, and in time men called him a heathen. Nevertheless his nature had been so deeply stirred in his youth by religion's mystic appeal that he never afterwards lost his reverence for genuine religious feeling. To the end of his days the aspiration of the human soul for com- munion with God found in him a delicate and sympathetic interpreter. During his convalescence Goethe retouched a score of his Leipzig songs and published them anonymously, with music by his friend Breitkopf , under the title of New Songs. He regarded them at the time as trifles that had come into being without art or effort. " Young, in love, and full of feeling," he had sung them so, while " playing the old game of youth." Today they seem to convey little fore- warning of the matchless lyric gift that was soon to awaken, being a shade too intellectual and sententious. One hears more of the critic's comment than of the poet's cry. It was at this time also that he rewrote an earlier Leipzig play, expanding it from one act to three and giving it the title Die Mitschuldigen, or The Fellow-culprits. It is a sort of rogue's comedy in middle-class life, written in the alexandrine verse, which was soon to be discarded along with other French fashions. We have a quartet consisting of an inquisitive inn-keeper, his mismated sentimental 6 THE GERMAN CLASSICS daughter, her worthless husband, and her former lover. They tangle themselves up in a series of low intrigues and are finally unmasked as one and all poor miserable sinners. Technically it is a good play lively, diverting, well put together. But one can not call it very edifying. In the spring of 1770 Goethe entered the University of Strassburg, which was at that time in French territory. It was a part of his general purpose to better his French, but the actual effect of his sojourn in Alsatia was to put him out of humor with all French standards, especially with the classic French drama, and to excite in him a fervid enthusiasm for the things of the fatherland. This was due partly to the influence of Herder, with whom he now came into close personal relations. From Herder, who was six years his senior and already known by his Fragments and Critical Forests as a trenchant and original critic, he heard the gospel of a literary revolution. Rules and conventions were to be thrown overboard; the new watchwords were nature, power, originality, genius, fulness of expression. He conceived a boundless admiration for Homer, Ossian, and Shakspere, in each of whom he saw the mirror of an epoch and a national life. He became an enthusiastic col- lector of Alsatian folksongs and was fascinated by the Strassburg minster at a time when ' ' Gothic * ' was gen- erally regarded as a synonym of barbarous. Withal his gift for song-making came to a new stage of perfection under the inspiration of his love for the village maid Friederike Brion. From this time forth he was the prince of German lyrists. In the summer of 1771 he returned to Frankfurt once more, this time with the title of licentiate in law, and began to practise in a perfunctory way, with his heart in his literary projects. By the end of the year he had written out the first draft of a play which he afterwards revised and published anonymously (in 1773) under the title of Gotz von Berlichingen. By its exuberant fulness of life, its bluff German heartiness, and the freshness and variety .\ iCS ;ghter, hr ss husband, and her former lover. a series of low intrigues and ne and all poor mi- sinners. od play lively, < put not call it ver ing. y of was at that time in French territory. : al purpose to better his French, >f his sojourn in Alsatia was to put ,rnor with all French standards, especially French drama, and to excite in him a fervid uga of the fatherland. This was due of Herder, with whom he now came lations. From Herder, who was six yw rd already known by his Fragments and * as a trenchant and original critic, he IK evolution. Rules and conventions .TOHAtrK^OLFOAHO VON-06iJrWE. nature, a^nality, genius, fulness of expression. i ? admiration for Homer, Ossian, and Shakspere, in each of whom he saw the mirror of epoch and a national life. He became an ei lector of Alsatian folksongs and v. the Strassburg minster at a time v erally regarded as a synonym of barbaron ial his gift for song-making came to a perfect under the inspiration of his love for iage maid Friederike Brion. From this fiixw* forth he was the prince of German lyrists. Ifi !je returned to Frankfurt once no- .f licentiate in law, and began to \ way, with his heart in his <[ of the year he had written u play which he afterwards rev^ //v.,,^, ^e'^*n^nifi8ly^lwJ6t773) under the title of By its exuberant fulness of life, ULtess, and the freshness and variety THE LIFE OF GOETHE 7 of its scenes, it took the public by storm, notwithstanding its disregard of the approved rules of play-writing. The next year he published The Sufferings of Young Werther, a tragic tale of a weak-willed sentimental youth of hyper- esthetic tendencies, who commits suicide because of dis- appointment in love. The story was the greatest literary triumph that Germany had ever known, and in point of sheer artistic power it remains to this day the best of novels in the tragic-sentimental vein. These two works carried the name of Goethe far and wide and made him the accepted leader of the literary revolution which long afterwards came to be known, from the title of a play by Klinger, as the Storm and Stress. The years 1773-1775 were for Goethe a time of high emotional tension, from which he sought relief in rapid, desultory, and multifarious writing. Exquisite songs, musical comedies of a sentimental tinge, humorous and satiric skits in dramatic form, prose tragedy of passionate error, and poetic tragedy of titanic revolt all these and more welled up from a sub-conscious spring of feeling, taking little counsel of the sober intellect. Several minor productions were left unfinished and were afterwards published in fragmentary form. Such is the case with Prometheus, a splendid fragment, in which we get a glimpse of the Titan battling, as the friend of man, against the ever-living gods. Of the works completed and published at this time, aside from Gotz and Werther, the most notable were Ciavigo and Stella, prose tragedies in which a fickle lover meets with condign punishment. Another prose tragedy, Egmont, with its hero conceived as a " demonic " nature borne on to his doom by his own buoyancy of spirit, was nearly finished. Most important of all, a considerable portion of Faust, which was to be its author's great life- work, was " stormed out " during these early years at Frankfurt. The legendary Faust is presented as a bad man who sells his soul to the devil for twenty-four years of power 8 THE GERMAN CLASSICS and pleasure, gets what he bargained for, and in the end goes to perdition. Young Goethe conceived his hero differ- ently: not as a bad man on the way to hell, and not at first as a good man on the way to heaven. He thought of him rather as a towering personality passionately athirst for transcendental knowledge and universal experience; as a man whose nature contained the very largest possi- bilities both for good and for evil. It is probable that, when he began to write, Goethe did not intend to anticipate the judgment of God upon Faust 's career. The essence of his dramatic plan was to carry his hero through a life- time of varied experience, letting him sin and suffer grandly, and at last to give him something to do which would seem worth having lived for. After the going down of the curtain, in all probability, he was to be left in the hands of the Eternal Pardoner. Later in life, as we shall see, Goethe decided not only to save his hero, but to make his salvation a part of the dramatic action. The close of the year 1775 brought a momentous change in Goethe's life and prospects. On the invitation of the young duke Karl August, who had met him and taken a liking to him, he went to visit the Weimar court, not expect- ing to stay more than a few weeks. But the duke was so pleased with his gifted and now famous guest that he presently decided to keep him in Weimar, if possible, by making him a member of the Council of State. Goethe was the more willing to remain, since he detested his law prac- tise, and his income from authorship was pitifully small. Moreover, he saw in the boyish, impulsive, sport-loving prince a sterling nature that might be led in the ways of wise rulership. For the nonce this was mission enough. He took his seat in the Council in June, 1776, with the title of Councilor of Legation. At first there was not very much for him to do except to familiarize himself with the physical and economic conditions of the little duchy. This he did with a will. He set about studying mineralogy, geology, botany, and was soon observing the homologies GOETHE'S GARDEN HOUSE IN WEIMAR GOETHE'S HOUSE IN WEIMAR THE LIFE OF GOETHE 9 of the vertebrate skeleton. Withal he was very attentive to routine business. One after another important depart- ments of administration were turned over to him, until he became, in 1782, the President of the Chambers and hence the leading statesman of the duchy. All this produced a sobering and clarifying effect. The inner storm and stress gradually subsided, and the new Goethe statesman, scientific investigator, man of the world, courtier, friend of princes came to see that after all feeling was not everything, and that its untrammeled expression was not the whole of art. Form and decorum counted for more than he had supposed, and revolution was not the word of wisdom. Self-control was the only basis of character, and limitation lay at the foundation of all art. To work to make things better, even in a humble sphere, was better than to fret over the badness of the world. Nature's method was that of bit-by-bit progress, and to puzzle out her ways was a noble and fascinating employment. In this general way of thinking he was con- firmed by the study of Spinoza's Ethics, a book which, as he said long afterwards, quieted his passions and gave him a large and free outlook over the world. In this process of quieting the passions some influence must be ascribed to Charlotte von Stein, a woman in whom, for some twelve years of his life, he found his muse and his madonna. His letters often address her in terms of idolatrous endear- ment. She was a wife and a mother, but Weimar society regarded her relation to Goethe as a platonic attachment not to be condemned. The artistic expression of the new life in Weimar is found in various short poems, notably Wanderer's Night- song, Ilmenau, The Divine, and The Mysteries; also in a number of plays which were written for the amateur stage of the court circle. The Weimarians were very fond of play-acting, and Goethe became their purveyor of dramatic supplies. It was to meet this demand that he wrote Brother and Sister (Die Geschwister) , The Triumph of 10 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Sentimentalism, The Fisher-maid, The Birds, and other pieces. Much more important than any of these bagatelles, which were often hastily composed for a birthday celebra- tion or some other festive occasion, are the two fine poetic dramas, Iphigenie and Tasso. The former was first writ- ten rather rapidly in stately rythmic prose and played by the amateurs, with Goethe himself in the role of Orestes, in the spring of 1779. Eight years later, the author being then in Italy, it was recast with great care in mellifluous blank verse. Iphigenie is essentially a drama of the soul, there being little in it of what is commonly called action. A youth who is the prey of morbid illusions, so that his life has become a burden, is cured by finding a noble-minded sister, whose whole being radiates peace and self-posses- sion. The entire power of Goethe's chastened art is here lavished on the figure of his heroine who, by her goodness, her candor, her sweet reasonableness, not only heals her soul-sick brother, but so works on the barbarian king Thoas, who would fain have her for his wife, that he wins a notable victory over himself. By the end of his first decade in Weimar Goethe began to feel that he needed and had earned a vacation. His conduct of the public business had been highly successful, but he had starved his esthetic nature ; for after all Weimar was only a good-sized village that could offer little to the lover of art. Overwork had so told upon him that he was unable to hold himself long to any literary project. He had begun half a dozen important works, but had completed none of them, and the public was beginning to suspect that the author of Gotz and Werther was lost to literature. The effect of the whole situation that inner conflict between the poetic dreamer and the man of affairs which is the theme of Tasso was to produce a feeling of depression, as of a bird caught in a net. So acute did the trouble become that he afterwards spoke of it as a terrible disease. In the summer of 1786 he contracted with the Leipzig pub- lisher Goschen for a new edition of his works in eight AVIOA MAN CLA*- l her-maid, T ds, and other aportant than bagatelles, lily con; rthday celebra- r festive oc< the two fine poetic and Tasso. The was first writ- in stately and played by with Goethe himself in the role of Orestes, f 1779. Eight years later, the author being ily, it was recast with great care in mellifluous Jphiger, lentially a drama of the soul, eing little in it of what is commonly called action. h who is the prey of morbid illusions, so that his has become a burden, is cured by finding a noble-minded whose whole being radiates peace and self-posses- ., The entire power of Goethe's chastened art is here lavished on the figure of his heroine who, by her goodness, her candor, her aCOBTHE IN UHE CAMPAGNA v heals her noal-sick brother, but so works on the barbarian king Thoas, who would fain have her for his wife, that he wins a notable victory over himself. By the end of his first decade in Weimar Goethe began to feel that he needed and had earned a vacation. His conduct of the public business had been highly successful, but he had starred his esthetic na ; r after all Weimar was only a good-sized village th;; offer little to the lover of art. Overwork had so told upon him that he was unable to hold iterary project. He had begun half a dozen important works, but had completed none of them, i public was beginning to suspect that t he author of G ,ther was lost to literature. The eifect of the w that inner conflict between the poetic dreamer and the man of affairs which is the theme of Tasso was to produce a feeling of depression, f a bird caught in a net. So acute did the trouble become that he afterwards spoke of it as a terrible disease. In the summer of 1786 he contracted with the Leipzig pub- lisher Gb'schen for a new edition of his works in eight THE LIFE OF GOETHE 11 volumes; and to gain time for this enterprise he resolved to take a trip to the land upon which he had already twice looked down with longing once in 1775 and again in 1779 from the summit of the Gotthard. On the 3d of September, at three o'clock in the morning, he stole away from Karlsbad, where he had been taking the waters, and hurried southward, alone and incognito, over the Alps. In Italy, where he remained nearly two years, Goethe's mind and art underwent another notable change. He him- self called it a spiritual rebirth. Freed from all oppressive engagements, he gave himself to the study of ancient sculp- ture and architecture, reveled in the splendors of Renais- sance painting, and pursued his botanical studies in the enticing plant-world of the Italian gardens. Venice, Naples, Vesuvius, Sicily, the sea, fascinated him in their several ways and gave him the sense of being richer for the rest of his life. Sharing in the care-free existence of the German artist-colony in Rome made him very happy. It not only disciplined his judgment in matters of art and opened a vast new world of ideas and impressions, but it restored the lost balance between the intellectual and duty-bound man on the one hand and the esthetic and sensual man on the other. He resolved never again to put on the harness of an administrative drudge, but to claim the freedom of a poet, an artist, a man of science. To this desire the Duke of Weimar generously assented. On his return to Weimar, in June, 1788, Goethe made it his first task to finish the remaining works that were called for by his contract with Goschen. Egmont and Tasso were soon disposed of, but Faust proved intractable. While in Rome he had taken out the old manuscript and written a scene or two, and had then somehow lost touch with the subject. So he decided to revise what he had on hand and to publish a part of the scenes as a fragment. This fragmentary Faust came out in 1790. It attracted little attention, nor was any other of the new works received with much warmth by the public of that day. They expected 12 THE GERMAN CLASSICS something like Gotz and Werther, and did not understand the new Goethe, who showed in many ways that his heart was still in Italy and that he found Weimar a little dull and provincial. Thus the greatest of German poets had for the time being lost touch with the German public; he saw that he must wait for the growth of the taste by which he was to be understood and enjoyed. Matters were hardly made better by his taking Christiane Vulpius into his house as his unwedded wife. This step, which shocked Weimar society except the duke and Herder had the effect of ending his unwholesome relation to Frau von Stein, who was getting old and peevish. The character of Christiane has often been pictured too harshly. She was certainly not her husband's intellectual peer he would have looked long for a wife of that grade and she became a little too fond of wine. On the other hand, she was affectionate, devoted, true, and by no means lacking in mental gifts. She and Goethe were happy together and faithful to each other. For several years after his return from Italy Goethe wrote nothing that is of much importance in the history of his literary life. He devoted himself largely to scientific studies in plant and animal morphology and the theory of color. His discovery of the intermaxillary bone in the human skull, and his theory that the lateral organs of a plant are but successive phases of the leaf, have given him an assured if modest place in the history of the develop- ment hypothesis. On the other hand, his long and labori- ous effort to refute Newton's theory of the composition of white light is now generally regarded as a misdirection of energy. In his Roman Elegies (1790) he struck a note of pagan sensuality. The pensive distichs, telling of the wanton doings of Amor amid the grandeur that was Rome, were a little shocking in their frank portraiture of the emancipated flesh. The outbreak of violence in France seemed to him nothing but madness and folly, since he did not see the real Revolution, but only the Paris Terror. THE LIFE OF GOETHE 13 He wrote two or three very ordinary plays to satirize various phases of the revolutionary excitement phases that now seem as insignificant as the plays themselves. In 1792 he accompanied the Duke of Weimar on the inglo- rious Austro-Prussian invasion of France, heard the can- nonade at Valmy, and was an interested observer as the allies tumbled back over the Rhine. Perhaps the best literary achievement of these years is the fine hexameter version of the medieval Reynard the Fox. The year 1794 marks the beginning of more intimate relations between Goethe and Schiller. Their memorable friendship lasted until Schiller's death, in 1805 the richest decade in the whole history of German letters. The two men became in a sense allies and stood together in the championship of good taste and humane idealism. Goethe 's literary occupations during this period were very multifarious; a list of his writings in the various fields of poetry, drama, prose fiction, criticism, biography, art and art-history, literary scholarship, and half a dozen sciences, would show a many-sidedness to which there is no modern parallel. Of all this mass of writing only a few works of major importance can even be mentioned here. In 1796 appeared Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship, a novel which captivated the literary class, if not the general public, and was destined to exert great influence on German fiction for a generation to come. It had been some twenty years in the making. In its earlier form it was called Wilhelm Meister's Theatrical Mission* This tells the story of a Werther-like youth who is to be saved from Werther's fate by finding a work to do. His " mission,'* apparently, is to become a good actor and to promote high ideals of the histrionic art. Incidentally he is ambitious to be a dramatic poet, and his childhood is simply that of Wolfgang Goethe. For reasons intimately connected with * This earlier version was long supposed to be lost, but in 1910 a copy of the original manuscript was discovered at ZUrich and published. Its six books correspond very nearly to the first four of the final version. 14 THE GERMAN CLASSICS his own development Goethe finally decided to change his plan and his title, and to present Wilhelm 's variegated experiences as an apprenticeship in the school of life. In the final version Wilhelm comes to the conclusion that the theatre is not his mission all that was a mistaken ambition. Just what use he will make of his well-disci- plined energy does not clearly appear at the end of the story, since Goethe bundles him off to Italy. He was already planning a continuation of the story under the title of Wilhelm Meister's Journey manship. In this second part the hero becomes interested in questions of social uplift and thinks of becoming a surgeon. Taken as a whole Wilhelm Meister moves with a slowness which is quite out of tune with later ideals of prose fiction. It also lacks concentration and artistic finality. But it is replete with Goethe's ripe and mellow wisdom, and it contains more of his intimate self than any other work of his except Faust. During this high noon of his life Goethe again took up his long neglected Faust, decided to make two parts of it, completed the First Part, and thought out much that was to go into the Second Part. By this time he had become some- what alienated from the spirit of his youth, when he had envisaged life in a mist of vague and stormy emotionalism. His present passion was for clearness. So he boldly decided to convert the old tragedy of sin and suffering into a drama of mental clearing-up. The early Faust the pessimist, murderer, seducer was to be presented as temporarily wandering in the dark; as a man who had gone grievously wrong in passionate error, but was essen- tially * ' good ' ' by virtue of his aspiring nature, and hence, in the Lord's fulness of time, was to be led out into the light and saved. The First Part, ending with the heart- rending death of Margaret in her prison-cell, and leaving Faust in an agony of remorse, was published in 1808. Faust's redemption, by enlarged experience of life and especially by his symbolic union with the Greek Queen of Beauty, was reserved for the Second Part. AN CLASSICS to change his variegated -'Cliool of life. ie conclusion that t was a mistaken of his well-disci- ar at the end of the c to It Ie was A story under the title hip. In this second >i questions of social i surgeon. Taken as a 1 ith a slowness which is of prose fiction. It also i'nality. But it is rep ripe and mellow wisdom, and it contains ^tedlfcntfBinVtd 'itoWHlJ 1 of his e (Berlin 1880) bis life Goethe again took up ted Fauxi, decided to make two parts of it, t Part, and thought out much that was to ond Part. By this tim< e some- ted from the spirit of hi had >fe in a mist of vague and sto sm. t passion was for clearness. boldly T\ r ert th r of sin and suffering iig-up. The early Faust -was to be presented as warn! airk; as a man who had jitsly wrcjpi ate error, hut was essen- ^ood M by virr nature, and hence, ^ led out into the 1 savQd. Th<: g with the heart- .th of Mar: i-cell, and leaving rH%a god consign 'd thee, thou dost prove A fountain of perpetual happiness, And from this dire inhospitable coast, Dost to the stranger grant a safe return? IPHIGENIA The little done doth vanish to the mind, Which forward sees how much remains to do. ABKAS Him dost thou praise, who underrates his deeds! IPHIGENIA Who weigheth his own deeds is justly blam'd. ABKAS He too, real worth too proudly who condemns, As who, too vainly, spurious worth o'er-rateth. Trust me, and heed the counsel of a man With honest zeal devoted to thy service: When Thoas comes today to speak with thee, Lend to his purposed words a gracious ear. IPHIGENIA Thy well-intention 'd counsel troubles me: His offer I have ever sought to shun. ABKAS Thy duty and thy interest calmly weigh. Sithence King Thoas lost his son and heir, Among his followers he trusts but few, And trusts those few no more as formerly. With jealous eye he views each noble's son As the successor of his realm, he dreads A solitary, helpless age perchance Sudden rebellion and untimely death. A Scythian studies not the rules of speech, And least of all the king. He who is used To act and to command, knows not the art, From far, with subtle tact, to guide discourse IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 163 Through many windings to its destin'd goal. Thwart not his purpose by a cold refusal, By an intended misconception. Meet, With gracious mien, half-way the royal wish. IPHIGENIA Shall I then speed the doom that threatens me? ARKAS His gracious offer canst thou call a threat? IPHIGENIA "Pis the most terrible of all to me. AEKAS For his affection grant him confidence. IPHIGENIA If he will first redeem my soul from fear. ABKAS Why dost thou hide from him thy origin? IPHIGENIA A priestess secrecy doth well become. ARKAS Naught to a monarch should a secret be ; And, though he doth not seek to fathom thine, His noble nature feels, ay, deeply feels, That thou with care dost hide thyself from him. IPHIGENIA Ill-will and anger harbors he against me? ARKAS Almost it seems so. True, he speaks not of thee, But casual words have taught me that the wish Thee to possess hath firmly seiz'd his soul; leave him not a prey unto himself, Lest his displeasure, rip'ning in his breast, Should work thee woe, so with repentance thou Too late my faithful counsel shalt recall. 164 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA How! doth the monarch purpose what no man Of noble mind, who loves his honest name, Whose bosom reverence for the gods restrains, Would ever think of? Will he force employ To drag me from the altar to his bed? Then will I call the gods, and chiefly thee, Diana, goddess resolute, to aid me ; Thyself a virgin, wilt a virgin shield, And to thy priestess gladly render aid. ARKAS Be tranquil! Passion, and youth's fiery blood Impel not Thoas rashly to commit A deed so lawless. In his present mood, I fear from him another harsh resolve, Which (for his soul is steadfast and unmov'd) He then will execute without delay. Therefore I pray thee, canst thou grant no more ; At least be grateful give thy confidence. IPHIGENIA Oh tell me what is further known to thee. AEKAS Learn it from him. I see the king approach: Him thou dost honor, thine own heart enjoins To meet him kindly and with confidence. A man of noble mind may oft be led By woman's gentle word. IPHIGENIA (alone) How to observe His faithful counsel see I not in sooth. But willingly the duty I perform Of giving thanks for benefits receiv'd, And much I wish that to the king my lips With truth could utter what would please his ear. 165 SCENE III IPHIGENIA, THOAS IPHIGENIA Her royal gifts the goddess shower on thee Imparting conquest, wealth, and high renown Dominion, and the welfare of thy house, With the fulfilment of each pious wish, That thou, whose sway for multitudes provides, Thyself may'st be supreme in happiness! THOAS Contented were I with my people 's praise ; My conquests others more than I enjoy. Oh! be he king or subject, he's most blest, Whose happiness is centred in his home. My deep affliction thou didst share with me What time, in war's encounter, the fell sword Tore from my side my last, my dearest son ; So long as fierce revenge possessed my heart, I did not feel my dwelling's dreary void; But now, returning home, my rage appeas'd, Their kingdom wasted, and my son aveng'd, I find there nothing left to comfort me. The glad obedience I was wont to see Kindling in every eye, is smother 'd now In discontent and gloom; each, pondering, weighs The changes which a future day may bring, And serves the childless king, because he must. Today I come within this sacred fane, Which I have often enter 'd to implore And thank the gods for conquest. In my breast I bear an old and fondly-cherish'd wish, To which methinks thou canst not be a stranger ; I hope, a blessing to myself and realm, To lead thee to my dwelling as my bride. 166 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA Too great thine offer, king, to one unknown ; Abash M the fugitive before thee stands, Who on this shore sought only what thou gavest, Safety and peace. THOAS Thus still to shroud thyself From, me, as from the lowest, in the veil Of mystery which wrapp'd thy coming here, Would in no country be deem 'd just or right. Strangers this shore appall'd; 'twas so ordain 'd, Alike by law and stern necessity. From thee alone a kindly welcom 'd guest, Who hast enjoy 'd each hallo w'd privilege, And spent thy days in freedom unrestrained From thee I hop'd that confidence to gain Which every faithful host may justly claim. IPHIGENIA If I conceal 'd, O king, my name, my race, It was embarrassment, and not mistrust. For didst thou know who stands before thee now, And what accursed head thine arm protects, Strange horror would possess thy mighty heart; And, far from wishing me to share thy throne, Thou, ere the time appointed, from thy realm Wouldst banish me ; wouldst thrust me forth, perchance Before a glad reunion with my friends And period to my wand 'rings is ordain 'd, To meet that sorrow, which in every clime, With cold, inhospitable, fearful hand, Awaits the outcast, exil'd from his home. THOAS Whate'er respecting thee the gods decree, Whate'er their doom for thee and for thy house, Since thou hast dwelt amongst us, and enjoy 'd The privilege the pious stranger claims, IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 167 To me hath fail'd no blessing sent from heaven; And to persuade me, that protecting thee I shield a guilty head, were hard indeed. IPHIGENIA Thy bounty, not the guest, draws blessings down. THOAS The kindness shown the wicked is not blest. End then thy silence, priestess; not unjust Is he who doth demand it. In my hands The goddess placed thee; thou hast been to me As sacred as to her, and her behest Shall for the future also be my law : If thou canst hope in safety to return Back to thy kindred, I renounce my claims : But is thy homeward path for ever closed Or doth thy race in hopeless exile rove, Or lie extinguish 'd by some mighty woe Then may I claim thee by more laws than one. Speak openly, thou know'st I keep my word. IPHIGENIA Its ancient bands reluctantly my tongue Doth loose, a long hid secret to divulge ; For once imparted, it resumes no more The safe asylum of the inmost heart, But thenceforth, as the powers above decree, Doth work its ministry of weal or woe. Attend! I issue from the Titan's race. THOAS A word momentous calmly hast thou spoken. Him nam'st thou ancestor whom all the world Knows as a sometime favorite of the gods? Is it that Tantalus, whom Jove himself Drew to his council and his social board f On whose experienc'd words, with wisdom fraught, As on the language of an oracle, E'en gods delighted hungf 168 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA 'Tis even he; But the immortal gods with mortal men Should not, on equal terms, hold intercourse ; For all too feeble is the human race, Not to grow dizzy on unwonted heights. Ignoble was he not, and no betrayer ; To be the Thunderer's slave, he was too great; To be his friend and comrade, but a man. His crime was human, and their doom severe ; For poets sing, that treachery and pride Did from Jove's table hurl him headlong down To grovel in the depths of Tartarus. Alas, and his whole race must bear their hate. THOAS Bear they their own guilt, or their ancestor's? IPHIGENIA The Titan's mighty breast and nervous frame Was his descendants' certain heritage; But round their brow Jove forg'd a band of brass. Wisdom and patience, prudence and restraint, He from their gloomy, fearful eye conceal 'd; In them each passion grew to savage rage, And headlong rush'd with violence uncheck'd. Already Pelops, Tantalus' loved son, Mighty of will, obtained his beauteous bride, Hippodamia, child of CEnomaus, Through treachery and murder; she ere long, To glad her consort's heart, bare him two sons, Thyest and Atreus. They with envy marked The ever-growing love their father bare To his first-born, sprung from another union. Hate leagued the pair, and secretly they wrought, In fratricide, the first dread crime. The sire Hippodamia held as murderess, With savage rage he claim 'd from her his son, And she in terror did destroy herself IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 169 THOAS Thou'rt silent! Pause not in thy narrative; Repent not of thy confidence say on ! IPHIGENIA How blest is he who his progenitors With pride remembers, to the listener tells The story of their greatness, of their deeds, And, silently rejoicing, sees himself The latest link of this illustrious chain! For seldom does the selfsame stock produce The monster and the demigod: a line Of good or evil ushers in, at last, The glory or the terror of the world. After the death of Pelops, his two sons Rul'd o'er the city with divided sway. But such an union could not long endure. His brother's honor first Thyestes wounds. In vengeance Atreus drove him from the realm. Thyestes, planning horrors, long before Had stealthily procur'd his brother's son, Whom he in secret nurtur'd as his own. Revenge and fury in his breast he pour'd, Then to the royal city sent him forth, That in his uncle he might slay his sire. The meditated murder was disclos'd, And by the king most cruelly aveng'd, Who slaughter 'd as he thought, his brother's son. Too late he learn 'd whose dying tortures met His drunken gaze ; and seeking to assuage The insatiate vengeance that possess 'd his soul, He plann'd a deed unheard of. He assum'd A friendly tone, seem'd reconcil'd, appeas'd, And lur'd his brother, with his children twain, Back to his kingdom; these he seiz'd and slew; Then plac'd the loathsome and abhorrent food At his first meal before the unconscious sire. 170 THE GERMAN CLASSICS And when Thyestes had his hunger still 'd With his own flesh, a sadness seiz'd his soul; He for his children ask'd, their steps, their voice Fancied he heard already at the door; And Atreus, grinning with malicious joy, Threw in the members of the slaughter 'd boys. Shudd'ring, king, thou dost avert thy face: So did the sun his radiant visage hide, And swerve his chariot from the eternal path. These, monarch, are thy priestess ' ancestors, And many a dreadful fate of mortal doom, And many a deed of the be wilder 'd brain, Dark night doth cover with her sable wing, Or shroud in gloomy twilight. THOAS Hidden there Let them abide. A truce to horror now, And tell me by what miracle thou sprangest From race so savage. IPHIGENIA Atreus' eldest son Was Agamemnon ; he, king, my sire : But I may say with truth, that, from a child, In him the model of a perfect man I witness 'd ever. Clytemnestra bore To him, myself, the firstling of their love, Electra then. Peaceful the monarch rul'd, And to the house of Tantalus was given A long-withheld repose. A son alone Was wanting to complete my parents ' bliss ; Scarce was this wish fulfill 'd, and young Orestes, The household's darling, with his sisters grew, When new misfortunes vex'd our ancient house. To you hath come the rumor of the war, Which, to avenge the fairest woman's wrongs, The force united of the Grecian kings IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 171 Round Dion's walls encamp 'd. Whether the town Was humbled, and achieved their great revenge, I have not heard. My father led the host. In Aulis vainly for a favoring gale They waited; for, enrag'd against their chief, Diana stay'd their progress, and requir'd, Through Chalcas' voice, the monarch's eldest daughter. They lured me with my mother to the camp, They dragged me to the altar, and this head There to the goddess doomed. She was appeased; She did not wish my blood, and shrouded me In a protecting cloud ; within this temple I first awakened from the dream of death; Yes, I myself am she, Iphigenia, Grandchild of Atreus, Agamemnon's child, Diana's priestess, I who speak with thee. THOAS I yield no higher honor or regard To the king's daughter than the maid unknown; Once more my first proposal I repeat; Come follow me, and share what I possess. IPHIGENIA How dare I venture such a step, king? Hath not the goddess who protected me Alone a right to my devoted head? 'Twas she who chose for me this sanctuary, Where she perchance reserves me for my sire, By my apparent death enough chastis'd, To be the joy and solace of his age. Perchance my glad return is near; and how, If I, unmindful of her purposes, Had here attach 'd myself against her will! I ask'd a signal, did she wish my stay. THOAS The signal is that still thou tarriest here. Seek not evasively such vain pretexts. 172 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Not many words are needed to refuse, The no alone is heard by the refused. IPHIGENIA Mine are not words meant only to deceive ; I have to thee my inmost heart reveal 'd. And doth no inward voice suggest to thee, How I with yearning soul must pine to see My father, mother, and my long-lost home? Oh let thy vessels bear me thither, king? That in the ancient halls, where sorrow still In accents low doth fondly breathe my name, Joy, as in welcome of a new-born child, May round the columns twine the fairest wreath. New life thou wouldst to me and mine impart. THOAS Then go! Obey the promptings of thy heart; And to the voice of reason and good counsel, Close thou thine ear. Be quite the woman, give To every wish the rein, that brideless May seize on thee, and whirl thee here and there. When burns the fire of passion in her breast, No sacred tie withholds her from the wretch Who would allure her to forsake for him A husband's or a father's guardian arms; Extinct within her heart its fiery glow, The golden tongue of eloquence in vain With words of truth and power assails her ear. IPHIGENIA Remember now, king, thy noble words! My trust and candor wilt thou thus repay? Thou seem'st, methinks, prepar'd to hear the truth. THOAS For this unlock 'd-f or answer not prepar'd. Yet 'twas to be expected ; knew I not That with a woman I had now to deal! IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 173 IPHIGENIA Upbraid not thus, O king, our feeble sex! Though not in dignity to match with yours, The weapons woman wields are not ignoble. And trust me, Thoas, in thy happiness I have a deeper insight than thyself. Thou thinkest, ignorant alike of both, A closer union would augment our bliss ; Inspir'd with confidence and honest zeal Thou strongly urgest me to yield consent; And here I thank the gods, who give me strength To shun a doom unratified by them. THOAS 'Tis not a god, 'tis thine own heart that speaks. IPHIGENIA Tis through the heart alone they speak to us. THOAS To hear them have I not an equal right! IPHIGENIA The raging tempest drowns the still small voice. THOAS This voice no doubt the priestess hears alone. IPHIGENIA Before all others should the prince attend it. THOAS Thy sacred office, and ancestral right To Jove's own table, place thee with the gods In closer union than an earth-born savage. IPHIGENIA Thus must I now the confidence atone Thyself didst wring from me ! 174 THE GERMAN CLASSICS THOAS I am a man. And better 'tis we end this conference. Hear then my last resolve. Be priestess still Of the great goddess who selected thee ; And may she pardon me, that I from her, Unjustly and with secret self-reproach, Her ancient sacrifice so long withheld. From olden time no stranger near'd our shore But fell a victim at her sacred shrine. But thou, with kind affection (which at times Seem'd like a gentle daughter's tender love, At times assum'd to my enraptur'd heart The modest inclination of a bride), Didst so inthral me, as with magic bonds, That I forgot my duty. Thou didst rock My senses in a dream: I did not hear My people 's murmurs : now they cry aloud, Ascribing my poor son's untimely death To this my guilt. No longer for thy sake Will I oppose the wishes of the crowd, Who urgently demand the sacrifice. IPHIGENIA For mine own sake I ne'er desired it from thee. Who to the gods ascribe a thirst for blood Do misconceive their nature, and impute To them their own inhuman dark desires. Did not Diana snatch me from the priest, Holding my service dearer than my death? THOAS 'Tis not for us, on reason's shifting grounds, Lightly to guide and construe rites divine. Perform thy duty; I'll accomplish mine. Two strangers, whom in caverns of the shore We found conceal 'd, and whose arrival here Bodes to my realm no good, are in my power. With them thy goddess may once more resume Her ancient, pious, long-suspended rites! I send them here, thy duty not unknown. [Exit.] 175 IPHIGENIA (alone) Gracious protectress ! thou hast clouds To shelter innocence distress 'd, And from the arms of iron fate, Gently to waft her o'er the sea, O'er the wide earth's remotest realms, Where'er it seemeth good to thee. Wise art thou, thine all-seeing eye The future and the past surveys; Thy glance doth o 'er thy children rest, E 'en as thy light, the life of night, Keeps o'er the earth its silent watch. Goddess ! keep my hands from blood ! Blessing it never brings, and peace ; And still in evil hours the form Of the chance-murder 'd man appears To fill the unwilling murderer's soul With horrible and gloomy fears. For fondly the Immortals view Man's widely scatter 'd simple race; And the poor mortal's transient life Gladly prolong, that he may lift Awhile to their eternal heavens His sympathetic joyous gaze. ACT II SCENE I ORESTES, PYLADES ORESTES It is the path of death that now we tread: At every step my soul grows more serene. When I implor'd Apollo to remove The grisly band of Furies from my side, He seem'd, with hope-inspiring, godlike words, To promise aid and safety in the fane Of his lov'd sister, who o'er Tauris rules. 176 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Thus the prophetic word fulfils itself, That with my life shall terminate my woe. How easy 'tis for me, whose heart is crush M, Whose sense is deaden M by a hand divine, Thus to renounce the beauteous light of day! And must the son of Atreus not entwine The wreath of conquest round his dying brow Must I, as my forefathers, as my sire, Bleed like a victim, an ignoble death So be it ! Better at the altar here, Than in a nook obscure, where kindred hands Have spread assassination's wily net. Yield me this brief repose, infernal Powers! Ye, who, like loosen 'd hounds, still scent the blood Which, trickling from my feet, betrays my path. Leave me ! ere long I come to you below. Nor you, nor I, should view the light of day. The soft green carpet of the beauteous earth Is no arena for unhallow'd fiends. Below I seek you, where an equal fate Binds all in murky, never-ending night. Thee only, thee, my Pylades, my friend, The guiltless partner of my crime and curse, Thee am I loath, before thy time, to take To yonder cheerless shore ! Thy life or death Alone awakens in me hope or fear. PYLADES Like thee, Orestes, I am not prepared Downwards to wander to yon realm of shade. I purpose still, through the entangled paths, Which seem as they would lead to blackest night, Again to wind our upward way to life. Of death I think not ; I observe and mark Whether the gods may not perchance present Means and fit moment for a joyful flight. Dreaded or not, the stroke of death must come; IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 177 And though the priestess stood with hand uprais'd, Prepar'd to cut our consecrated locks, Our safety still should be my only thought; Uplift thy soul above this weak despair; Desponding doubts but hasten on our peril. Apollo pledg'd to us his sacred word, That in his sister's holy fane for thee Were comfort, aid, and glad return prepared. The words of Heaven are not equivocal, As in despair the poor oppress 'd one thinks. ORESTES The mystic web of life my mother cast Around my infant head, and so I grew An image of my sire ; and my mute look Was aye a bitter and a keen reproof To her and base ^Egisthus. Oh, how oft, When silently within our gloomy hall Electra sat, and mus'd beside the fire, Have I with anguish 'd spirit climb 'd her knee, And watch 'd her bitter tears with sad amaze! Then would she tell me of our noble sire : How much I long'd to see him be with him! Myself at Troy one moment fondly wish'd, My sire's return, the next. The day arrived PYLADES Oh, of that awful hour let fiends of hell Hold nightly converse ! Of a time more fair May the remembrance animate our hearts To fresh heroic deeds. The gods require On this wide earth the service of the good, To work their pleasure. Still they count on thee; For in thy father's train they sent thee not, When he to Orcus went unwilling down. ORESTES Would I had seized the border of his robe, And followed him! VOL. 1 12 178 THE GERMAN CLASSICS PYLADES They kindly cared for me Who held thee here; for hadst thou ceased to live, I know not what had then become of me ; Since I with thee, and for thy sake alone, Have from my childhood liv'd, and wish to live. ORESTES Remind me not of those delightsome days, When me thy home a safe asylum gave; With fond solicitude thy noble sire The half-nipp'd, tender flow 'ret gently rear'd: While thou, a friend and playmate always gay, Like to a light and brilliant butterfly Around a dusky flower, didst day by day Around me with new life thy gambols urge, And breathe thy joyous spirit in my soul, Until, my cares forgetting, I with thee Was lur'd to snatch the eager joys of youth. PYLADES My very life began when thee I lov'd. ORESTES Say, then thy woes began, and thou speak 'st truly. This is the sharpest sorrow of my lot, That, like a plague-infected wretch, I bear Death and destruction hid within my breast; That, where I tread, e'en on the healthiest spot, Ere long the blooming faces round betray The anguish 'd features of a ling 'ring death. PYLADES Were thy breath venom, I had been the first To die, that death, Orestes. Am I not, As ever, full of courage and of joy? And love and courage are the spirit's wings Wafting to noble actions. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 179 ORESTES Noble actions? Time was, when fancy painted such before us! When oft, the game pursuing, on we roam'd O'er hill and valley; hoping that ere long, Like our great ancestors in heart and hand, With club and weapon arm'd, we so might track The robber to his den, or monster huge. And then at twilight, by the boundless sea, Peaceful we sat, reclin'd against each other, The waves came dancing to our very feet, And all before us lay the wide, wide world; Then on a sudden one would seize his sword, And future deeds shone round us like the stars, Which gemm'd in countless throngs the vault of night. PYIADES Endless, my friend, the projects which the soul Burns to accomplish. We would every deed At once perform as grandly as it shows After long ages, when from land to land The poet's swelling song hath roll'd it on. It sounds so lovely what our fathers did, When, in the silent evening shade reclin'd, We drink it in with music's melting tones; And what we do is, as their deeds to them, Toilsome and incomplete ! Thus we pursue what always flies before; We disregard the path in which we tread, Scarce see around the footsteps of our sires, Or heed the trace of their career on earth. We ever hasten on to chase their shades, Which, godlike, at a distance far remote, On golden clouds, the mountain summits crown. The man I prize not who esteems himself Just as the people's breath may chance to raise him. But thou, Orestes, to the gods give thanks. That they through thee have early done so much. 180 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ORESTES When they ordain a man to noble deeds, To shield from dire calamity his friends, Extend his empire, or protect its bounds, Or put to flight its ancient enemies, Let him be grateful! For to him a god Imparts the first, the sweetest joy of life. Me have they doom'd to be a slaughterer, To be an honor 'd mother's murderer, And shamefully a deed of shame avenging, Me through their own decree they have o'erwhelm'd. Trust me, the race of Tantalus is doom'd; And I, his last descendant, may not perish, Or crown 'd with honor or unstain'd by crime. PYLADES The gods avenge not on the son the deeds Done by the father. Each, or good or bad, Of his own actions reaps the due reward. The parents' blessing, not their curse, descends. ORESTES Methinks their blessing did not lead us here. PYLADES It was at least the mighty gods' decree. ORESTES Then is it their decree which doth destroy us. PYLADES Perform what they command, and wait the event. Do thou Apollo's sister bear from hence, That they at Delphi may united dwell, There by a noble-thoughted race revered, Thee, for this deed, the lofty pair will view With gracious eye, and from the hateful grasp Of the infernal Powers will rescue thee. E'en now none dares intrude within this grove. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 181 OKESTES So shall I die at least a peaceful death. PYLADES Far other are my thoughts, and not unskill'd Have I the future and the past combined In quiet meditation. Long, perchance, Hath ripen 'd in the counsel of the gods The great event. Diana yearns to leave The savage coast of these barbarians, Foul with their sacrifice of human blood. We were selected for the high emprize; To us it is assign 'd, and strangely thus We are conducted to the threshold here. ORESTES My friend, with wondrous skill thou link'st thy wish With the predestin'd purpose of the gods. PYLADES Of what avail is prudence, if it fail Heedful to mark the purposes of Heaven? A noble man, who much hath sinn'd, some god Doth summon to a dangerous enterprize, Which to achieve appears impossible. The hero conquers, and atoning serves Mortals and gods, who thenceforth honor him. ORESTES Am I foredoom 'd to action and to life, Would that a god from my distemper 'd brain Might chase this dizzy fever, which impels My restless steps along a slipp'ry path, Stain 'd with a mother's blood, to direful death; And pitying, dry the fountain, whence the blood, For ever spouting from a mother's wounds, Eternally defiles me! PYLADES Wait in peace ! Thou dost increase the evil, and dost take 182 THE GERMAN CLASSICS The office of the Furies on thyself. Let me contrive, be still! And when at length The time for action claims our powers combin'd, Then will I summon thee, and on we'll stride, With cautious boldness to achieve the event. OKESTES I hear Ulysses speak. PYLADES Nay, mock me not. Each must select the hero after whom To climb the steep and difficult ascent Of high Olympus. And to me it seems That him nor stratagem nor art defiles Who consecrates himself to noble deeds. ORESTES I most esteem the brave and upright man. PYLADES And therefore have I not desir'd thy counsel. One step's already taken. From our guards E'en now I this intelligence have gained. A strange and godlike woman holds in check The execution of that bloody law: Incense, and prayer, and an unsullied heart, These are the gifts she offers to the gods. Eumor extols her highly, it is thought That from the race of Amazon she springs, And hither fled some great calamity. ORESTES Her gentle sway, it seems, lost all its power When hither came the culprit, whom the curse, Like murky night, envelops and pursues. Our doom to seal, the pious thirst for blood The ancient cruel rite again unchains: The monarch's savage will decrees our death; A woman cannot save when he condemns. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 183 PYLADES That 'tis a woman, is a ground for hope ! A man, the very best, with cruelty At length may so familiarize his mind, His character through custom so transform, That he shall come to make himself a law Of what at first his very soul abhorr'd. But woman doth retain the stamp of mind She first assum'd. On her we may depend In good or evil with more certainty. She comes ; leave us alone. I dare not tell At once our names, nor unreserv'd confide Our fortunes to her. Now retire awhile, And ere she speaks with thee we'll meet again. SCENE II IPHIGENIA, PYLADES IPHIGENIA Whence art thou? Stranger, speak! To me thy bearing Stamps thee of Grecian, not of Scythian race. [She unbinds his chains.] The freedom that I give is dangerous; The gods avert the doom that threatens you! PYLADES Delicious music! dearly welcome tones Of our own language in a foreign land! With joy my captive eye once more beholds The azure mountains of my native coast. Oh, let this joy that I, too, am a Greek Convince thee, priestess ! How I need thine aid, A moment I forget, my spirit rapt In contemplation of so fair a vision. If fate's dread mandate doth not seal thy lips, From which of our illustrious races say, Dost thou thy godlike origin derive? 184 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA The priestess whom the goddess hath herself Selected and ordained, doth speak with thee. Let that suffice: but tell me, who art thou, And what unbless'd o'erruling destiny Hath hither led thee with thy friend? PYLADES The woe, Whose hateful presence ever dogs our steps, I can with ease relate. Oh, would that thou Couldst with like ease, divine one, shed on us One ray of cheering hope! We are from Crete, Adrastus' sons, and I, the youngest born, Named Cephalus; my eldest brother, he, Laodamas. Between us stood a youth Savage and wild, who severed e'en in sport The joy and concord of our early youth. Long as our father led his powers at Troy, Passive our mother's mandate we obey'd; But when, enrich 'd with booty, he return 'd, And shortly after died, a contest fierce Both for the kingdom and their father's wealth, His children parted. I the eldest joined; He slew our brother; and the Furies hence For kindred murder dog his restless steps. But to this savage shore the Delphian god Hath sent us, cheer 'd by hope. He bade us wait Within his sister's consecrated fane The blessed hand of aid. Captives we are, And, hither brought, before thee now we stand Ordain 'd for sacrifice. My tale is told. IPHIGENIA Fell Troy! Dear man, assure me of its fall. PYLADES Prostrate it lies. O unto us ensure Deliverance. The promised aid of Heaven IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 185 More swiftly bring. Take pity on my brother. say to him a kind, a gracious word; But spare him when thou speakest, earnestly This I implore: for all too easily Through joy and sorrow and through memory Torn and distracted is his inmost being. A feverish madness oft doth seize on him, Yielding his spirit, beautiful and free, A prey to furies. IPHIGENIA Great as is thy woe, Forget it, I conjure thee, for a while, Till I am satisfied. PYLADES The stately town, Which ten long years withstood the Grecian host, Now lies in ruins, ne'er to rise again; Yet many a hero's grave will oft recall Our sad remembrance to that barbarous shore. There lies Achilles and his noble friend. IPHIGENIA So are ye godlike forms reduc'd to dust! PYLADES Nor Palamede, nor Ajax, ere again The daylight of their native land beheld. IPHIGENIA He speaks not of my father, doth not name Him with the fallen. He may yet survive I 1 may behold him! still hope on, fond heart! PYLADES Yet happy are the thousands who receiv'd Their bitter death-blow from a hostile hand! For terror wild, and end most tragical, 186 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Some hostile, angry deity prepared, Instead of triumph, for the home-returning. Do human voices never reach this shore? Far as their sound extends, they bear the fame Of deeds unparallel'd. And is the woe Which fills Mycene's halls with ceaseless sighs To thee a secret still? And know'st thou not That Clytemnestra, with JEgisthus' aid, Her royal consort artfully ensnar'd, And murder 'd on the day of his return? The monarch's house thou honorest! I perceive Thy breast with tidings vainly doth contend Fraught with such monstrous and unlock 'd for woe. Art thou the daughter of a friend? art born Within the circuit of Mycene's walls? Conceal it not, nor call me to account That here the horrid crime I first announce. JPHIGENIA Proceed, and tell me how the deed was done. PYLADES The day of his return, as from the bafh Arose the monarch, tranquil and refresh 'd, His robe demanding from his consort's hand, A tangled garment, complicate with folds, She o 'er his shoulders flung and noble head ; And when, as from a net, he vainly strove To extricate himself, the traitor, base ^Egisthus, smote him, and envelop 'd thus Great Agamemnon sought the shades below. IPHIGENIA And what reward receiv'd the base accomplice? IPHIGENIA IN TAUBIS 187 PYLADES A queen and kingdom he possess 'd already. IPHIGENIA Base passion prompted then the deed of shame t PYLADES And feelings, cherish 'd long, of deep revenge. IPHIGENIA How had the monarch injured Clytemnestraf PYLADES By such a dreadful deed, that if on earth Aught could exculpate murder, it were this. To Aulis he allur'd her, when the fleet With unpropitious winds the goddess stay'd; And there, a victim at Diana's shrine, The monarch, for the welfare of the Greeks, Her eldest daughter doomed, Iphigenia. And this, so rumor saith, within her heart Planted such deep abhorrence that forthwith She to ^Egisthus hath resigned herself, And round her husband flung the web of death. IPHIGENIA (veiling herself) It is enough! Thou wilt again behold me. PYLADES (alone) The fortune of this royal house, it seems, Doth move her deeply. Whosoe'er she be, She must herself have known the monarch well; For our good fortune, from a noble house, She hath been sold to bondage. Peace, my heart ! And let us steer our course with prudent zeal Toward the star of hope which gleams upon us. 188 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA Unhappy man, I only loose thy bonds In token of a still severer doom. The freedom which the sanctuary imparts, Like the last life-gleam o'er the dying face, But heralds death. I cannot, dare not, say Your doom is hopeless ; for, with murderous hand, Could I inflict the fatal blow myself? And while I here am priestess of Diana, None, be he who he may, dare touch your heads. But the incensed king, should I refuse Compliance with the rites himself enjoin 'd, Will choose another virgin from my train As my successor. Then, alas! with naught, Save ardent wishes, can I succor you. Much honored countrymen! The humblest slave, Who had but near'd our sacred household hearth, Is dearly welcome in a foreign land; How with proportion 'd joy and blessing, then, Shall I receive the man who doth recall The image of the heroes, whom I learn 'd To honor from my parents, and who cheers My inmost heart with flatt'ring gleams of hope! ORESTES Does prudent forethought prompt thee to conceal Thy name and race ? or may I hope to know Who, like a heavenly vision, meets me thus? IPHIGENIA Yes, thou shalt know me. Now conclude the tale Of which thy brother only told me half : Eelate their end, who coming home from Troy, On their own threshold met a doom severe IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 189 And most unlock 'd for. Young I was in sooth When first conducted to this foreign shore, Yet well I recollect the timid glance Of wonder and amazement which I cast On those heroic forms. When they went forth It seem'd as though Olympus had sent down The glorious figures of a bygone world, To frighten Ilion; and above them all, Great Agamemnon tower 'd preeminent! Oh, tell me ! Fell the hero in his home, Through Clytemnestra 's and ^Egisthus' wiles! OBESTES He fell! IPHIGENIA Unblest Mycene! Thus the sons Of Tantalus, with barbarous hands, have sown Curse upon curse; and, as the shaken weed Scatters around a thousand poison-seeds, So they assassins ceaseless generate, Their children's children ruthless to destroy. Now tell the remnant of thy brother's tale, Which horror darkly hid from me before. How did the last descendant of the race, The gentle child, to whom the Gods assign 'd The office of avenger, how did he Escape that day of blood? Did equal fate Around Orestes throw Avernus' net! Say, was he saved? and is he still alive? And lives Electra, too? OBESTES They both survive. IPHIGENIA Golden Apollo, lend thy choicest beams! Lay them an offering at the throne of Jove I For I am poor and dumb. 190 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ORESTES If social bonds Or ties more close connect thee with this house, As this thy rapturous joy betrayeth to me, O then rein in thy heart and hold it fast! For insupportable the sudden plunge From happiness to sorrow's gloomy depth. Thou knowest only Agamemnon's death. IPHIGENIA And is not this intelligence enough? OKESTES Half of the horror only hast thou heard. IPHIGENIA What should I fear I Orestes, Electra lives. OKESTES And fearest thou for Clytemnestra naught? IPHIGENIA Her, neither hope nor fear have power to save. ORESTES She to the land of hope hath bid farewell. IPHIGENIA Did her repentant hand shed her own blood? ORESTES Not so; yet her own blood inflicted death. IPHIGENIA More plainly speak, nor leave me in suspense. Uncertainty around my anxious head Her dusky, thousand-folded pinion waves. ORESTES Have then the powers above selected me To be the herald of a dreadful deed, IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 191 Which in the drear and soundless realms of night I fain would hide for ever? 'Gainst my will Thy gentle voice constrains me; it demands, And shall receive, a tale of direst woe. Electra, on the day when fell her sire, Her brother from impending doom conceal 'd; Him Strophius, his father's relative, Receiv'd with kindest care, and rear'd him up With his own son, named Pylades, who soon Around the stranger twin'd love's fairest bonds. And as they grew, within their inmost souls There sprang the burning longing to revenge The monarch's death. Unlook'd for, and disguis'd, They reach Mycene, feigning to have brought The mournful tidings of Orestes' death, Together with his ashes. Them the queen Gladly receives. Within the house they enter; Orestes to Electra shows himself: She fans the fires of vengeance into flame, Which in the sacred presence of a mother Had burn'd more dimly. Silently she leads Her brother to the spot where fell their sire ; Where lurid blood-marks, on the oft-wash'd floor, With pallid streaks, anticipate revenge. With fiery eloquence she pictured forth Each circumstance of that atrocious deed, Her own oppress 'd and miserable life, The prosperous traitor's insolent demeanor, The perils threat'ning Agamemnon's race From her who had become their stepmother. Then in his hand the ancient dagger thrust, Which often in the house of Tantalus With savage fury rag'd, and by her sqn Was Clytemnestra slain. IPHIGENIA Immortal powers! Whose pure and blest existence glides away 192 THE GERMAN CLASSICS 'Mid ever shifting clouds, me have ye kept So many years secluded from the world, Retain 'd me near yourselves, consign 'd to me The childlike task to feed the sacred fire, And taught my spirit, like the hallow 'd flame, With never-clouded brightness to aspire To your pure mansions, but at length to feel With keener woe the horror of my house! tell me of the poor unfortunate ! Speak of Orestes ! ORESTES could I speak to tell thee of his death! Forth from the slain one's spouting blood arose His mother's ghost; And to the ancient daughters of the night Cries, " Let him not escape, the matricide! Pursue the victim, dedicate to you! " They hear, and glare around with hollow eyes, Like greedy eagles. In their murky dens They stir themselves, and from the corners creep Their comrades, dire Remorse and pallid Fear; Before them fumes a mist of Acheron; Perplexingly around the murderer's brow The eternal contemplation of the past Rolls in its cloudy circles. Once again The grisly band, commission 'd to destroy, Pollute earth's beautiful and heaven-sown fields, .From which an ancient curse had banish 'd them. Their rapid feet the fugitive pursue; They only pause to start a wilder fear. IPHIGENIA Unhappy one; thy lot resembles his, Thou feel'st what he, poor fugitive, must suffer. ORESTES What say'st thou? why presume my fate like his? EPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 193 IPHIGENIA A brother's murder weighs upon thy soul; Thy younger brother told the mournful tale. ORESTES I cannot suffer that thy noble soul Should by a word of falsehood be deceived. In cunning rich and practised in deceit A web ensnaring let the stranger weave To snare the stranger's feet; between us twain Be truth! I am Orestes ! and this guilty head Is stooping to the tomb, and covets death; It will be welcome now in any shape. Whoe 'er thou art, for thee and for my friend I wish deliverance / desire it not. Thou seem'st to linger here against thy will; Contrive some means of flight, and leave me here: My lifeless corpse hurl'd headlong from the rock, My blood shall mingle with the dashing waves, And bring a curse upon this barbarous shore! Return together home to lovely Greece, With joy a new existence to commence. [ORESTES retires.] IPHIGENIA At length Fulfilment, fairest child of Jove, Thou dost descend upon me from on high! How vast thine image! Scarce my straining eye Can reach thy hands, which, fill'd with golden fruit And wreaths of blessing, from Olympus' height Shower treasures down. As by his bounteous gifts We recognize the monarch (for what seems To thousands opulence, is naught to him), So you, ye heavenly Powers, are also known By bounty long withheld, and wisely plannM. Ye only know what things are good for us; Ye view the future's wide-extended realm, While from our eye a dim or starry veil VOL. 113 194 THE GERMAN CLASSICS The prospect shrouds. Calmly ye hear our prayers, When we like children sue for greater speed. Not immature ye pluck heaven's golden fruit; And woe to him, who with impatient hand, His date of joy forestalling, gathers death. Let not this long-awaited happiness, Which yet my heart hath scarcely realiz'd, Like to the shadow of departed friends, Glide vainly by with triple sorrow fraught! ORESTES (returning) Dost thou for Pylades and for thyself Implore the gods, blend not my name with yours ; Thou wilt not save the wretch whom thou wouldst join, But will participate his curse and woe. IPHIGENIA My destiny is firmly bound to thine. ORESTES No ; say not so : alone and unattended Let me descend to Hades. Though thou shouldst In thine own veil enwrap the guilty one, Thou couldst not shroud him from his wakeful foes: And e'en thy sacred presence, heavenly maid, But driveth them aside and scares them not. With brazen, impious feet they dare not tread Within the precincts of this sacred grove : Yet in the distance, ever and anon, I hear their horrid laughter, like the howl Of famish 'd wolves, beneath the tree wherein The traveler hides. Without, encamp 'd they lie, And should I quit this consecrated grove, Shaking their serpent locks, they would arise, And, raising clouds of dust on every side, Ceaseless pursue their miserable prey. IPHIGENIA Orestes, canst thou hear a friendly word! IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 195 OEESTES Beserve it for one favor 'd by the gods. IPHIGENIA To thee they give anew the light of hope. OKESTES Through clouds and smoke I see the feeble gleam Of the death-stream which lights me down to hell. IPHIGENIA Hast thou one sister only, thy Electra! ORESTES I knew but one : yet her kind destiny, Which seemed to us so terrible, betimes Removed an elder sister from the woe Which o 'er the house of Pelops aye impends. cease thy questions, nor thus league thyself With the Erinnys; still they blow away, With fiendish joy, the ashes from my soul, Lest the last embers of the fiery brand The fatal heritage of Pelops' house, Should there be quenched. Must then the fire for aye, Deliberately kindled and supplied With hellish sulphur, sear my tortured soul I IPHIGENIA 1 scatter fragrant incense in the flame. let the pure, the gentle breath of love, Low murmuring, cool thy bosom's fiery glow. Orestes, fondly lov'd, canst thou not hear me? Hath the terrific Furies' grisly band Dried up the blood of life within thy veins ? Creeps there, as from the Gorgon's direful head, A petrifying charm through all thy limbs? With hollow accents from a mother's blood, If voices call thee to the shades below, May not a sister's word with blessing rife Call from Olympus' height help-rendering gods? I 196 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ORESTES She calls! she calls! Dost thou desire my doom? Is there a Fury shrouded in thy form? Who art thou, that thy voice thus horribly Can harrow up my bosom's inmost depths? IPHIGENIA Thine inmost heart reveals it. I am she, Iphigenia, look on me, Orestes! ORESTES Thou! IPHIGENIA My own brother! ORESTES Hence, away, begone! I counsel thee, touch not these fatal locks ! As from Creusa's bridal robe, from me An inextinguishable fire is kindled. Leave me! Like Hercules, a death of shame, Unworthy wretch, locked in myself, I'll die! IPHIGENIA Thou shalt not perish ! Would that I might hear One quiet word from thee ! dispel my doubts, Make sure the bliss I have implored so long. A wheel of joy and sorrow in my heart, Ceaseless revolves. I from a man unknown With horror turn; but with resistless might My inmost heart impels me to my brother. ORESTES Is this Lyaeus' temple? Doth the glow Of holy rage unbridled thus possess The sacred priestess? IPHIGENIA Hear me, oh, look up I See how my heart, which hath been closed so long IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 197 Doth open to the bliss of seeing thee, The dearest treasure that the world contains, Of falling on thy neck, and folding thee Within my longing arms, which have till now Met the embraces of the empty wind. Do not repulse me, the eternal spring, Whose crystal waters from Parnassus flow, Bounds not more gaily on from rock to rock. Down to the golden vale, than from my heart The waters of affection freely gush, And round me form a circling sea of bliss. Orestes! my brother! OKESTES Lovely nymph! Nor thy caresses, nor thyself I trust; Diana claims attendants more severe, And doth avenge her desecrated fane. Remove thy circling arm! Wilt thou indeed Safety and love upon a youth bestow, And fondly tender him earth's fairest joy! Unto my friend, more worthy than myself, Impart thy favors; 'mong yon rocks he roves. Go, seek him ; guide him hence, and heed not me. IPHIGENIA Brother, command thyself, and better know Thy sister, newly found! Misconstrue not Her pure and heavenly rapture, blaming it As lustful heat unbridled. ye gods, Remove delusion from his rigid gaze, Lest that this moment, fraught with bliss supreme, Should make us trebly wretched ! She is here, Thine own, thy long-lost sister! From the altar The goddess rescued me, and placed me here, Secure within her consecrated fane A captive thou, prepared for sacrifice, And findest here a sister in the priestess. 198 THE GERMAN CLASSICS OEESTES Unblessed one! So may the radiant sun The final horror of our house behold! Is not Electra here? That she with us May also perish, nor her life prolong For heavier destiny and direr woe. 'Tis well, I follow, priestess! Fratricide Is an old custom of our ancient house; And you, ye gods, I thank, that ye resolve Childless to root me hence. Thee let me counsel To view too fondly neither sun nor stars. Come, follow to the gloomy realms below I As dragons, gender 'd in the sulphur pool, Swallow each other with voracious rage, So our accursed race destroys itself. Childless and guiltless come below with me! There's pity in thy look! oh, gaze not so, 'Twas with such looks that Clytemnestra sought An entrance to her son Orestes' heart, And yet his uprais'd arm her bosom pierc'd. His mother fell! Appear, indignant shade! Within the circle step, ye fiends of hell, Be present at the welcome spectacle, The last, most horrible that ye prepare! Nor hate, nor vengeance whets the poniard now; A loving sister is constrain 'd to deal The fatal blow. Weep not! Thou hast no guilt. From earliest infancy I naught have lov'd, As thee I could have lov'd, my sister. Come, The weapon raise, spare not, this bosom rend, And make an outlet for its boiling streams ! [He sinks exhausted.] IPHIGENIA Alone I cannot bear this bliss and woe. Where art thou, Pyladesf Thine aid I need. [IPHIGENIA retires.] IPHIGENIA IN TAUEIS 199 SCENE n OBESTES (recovering from his swoon and standing up) Give yet another! reach from Lethe's stream The last reviving draught of cool refreshment! Soon shall its waters in my bosom still Life's fitful fever; and my spirit then Adown oblivion's stream shall glide to you, Ye spirits shrouded in eternal mist. With tranquil pleasure in your deep repose A weary son of earth may lave his soul ! What whisp'ring sounds pervade the dreary grove ? What hollow murmurs haunt its twilight gloom! They gather round to view the stranger guest! Who are yon troop in high communion met, Like an assembled family of princes? They mingle peacefully, of every age, Of either sex: godlike, of kindred mould, Appear the gliding figures. Yes, 'tis they, The fathers of my race ! With Atreus, In friendly converse glides Thyestes' shade, And children playfully around them sport. Is there no enmity among you now? And is revenge extinguish 'd with the sun? So am I also welcome, and may hope To mingle in your solemn company. Welcome, my sires ! Orestes bids you hail ! The seed that ye have sow'd, that hath he reap'd. Laden with curses he descends to you. But burdens here are lighter far to bear. Receive him, oh, receive him in your circle ! Thee, Atreus, I revere, and thee, Thyestes: Here all are free from enmity and hate. Show me my father, whom I only once In life beheld. Art thou my father, thou, My mother leading thus familiarly? Dares Clytemnestra reach her hand to thee? 200 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Then may Orestes also draw near her, And say, Behold thy son! My ancestors, Behold your son, and bid him welcome here. Among the sons of ancient Tantalus, A kind salute on earth was murder's watchword, And all their joys commence beyond the grave. Ye welcome me ! Ye bid me join your circle I Oh, lead me to my honor 'd ancestor ! Where is our aged sire? Let me behold The dear, the venerable head of him Who with the immortal gods in council sat. Ye seem to shudder and to turn away! What may this mean? Suffers the godlike manT Alas! the mighty gods, with ruthless hate, To his heroic breast, with brazen chains, Have cruel pangs indissolubly bound. SCENE III ORESTES, IPHIGENIA, PYLADES ORESTES How ! Are ye come already here below ? Welcome, my sister! Still Electra fails; O that some kindly god, with gentle arrow, Her too, full speedily, would downward send! Thee, hapless friend, I must compassionate! Come with me ! Come ! To Pluto 's gloomy throne, There to salute our hosts like stranger guests. IPHIGENIA Celestial pair, who from the realms above By night and day shed down the beauteous light To cheer mankind, but who may not illume Departed spirits, save a mortal pair! A brother's and a sister's anguish pity! For thou, Diana, lov'st thy gentle brother Beyond what earth and heaven can offer thee; And dost, with quiet yearning, ever turn Thy virgin face to his eternal light. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 201 Let not my only brother, found so late, Rave in the darkness of insanity! And is thy will, when thou didst here conceal me, At length fulfill 'd, wouldst thou to me through him To him through me, thy gracious aid extend, Oh, free him from the fetters of this curse, Lest vainly pass the precious hours of safety. PYLADES Dost thou not know us, and this sacred grove, And this blest light, which shines not on the dead? Dost thou not feel thy sister and thy friend, Who hold thee living in their firm embrace? Us firmly grasp; we are not empty shades. Mark well my words ! Collect thy scatter 'd thoughts ! Attend! Each moment is of priceless worth, And our return hangs on a slender thread, Which, as it seems, some gracious fate doth spin, OEBSTES (to IPHIGENIA) My sister, let me for the first time taste, With open heartj pure joy within thine arms ! Ye gods, who charge the heavy clouds with dread, And sternly gracious send the long-sought rain With thunder and the rush of mighty winds, A horrid deluge on the trembling earth; Yet dissipate at length man's dread suspense, Exchanging timid wonder's anxious gaze For grateful looks and joyous songs of praise, When in each sparkling drop which gems the leaves, Apollo, thousand-fold, reflects his beam, And Iris colors with a magic hand The dusty texture of the parting clouds ; Oh, let me also in my sister's arms, And on the bosom of my friend, enjoy With grateful thanks the bliss ye now bestow; My heart assures me that your curses cease. The dread Eumenides at length retire, The brazen gates of Tartarus I hear 202 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Behind them closing with a thunderous clang. A quick 'ning odor from the earth ascends, Inviting me to chase, upon its plains, The joys of life and deeds of high emprize. PYLADES Lose not the moments which are limited ! The favoring gale, which swells our parting sail, Must to Olympus waft our perfect joy. Quick counsel and resolve the time demands. ACT IV SCENE I IPHIGENIA When the Powers on high decree For a feeble child of earth Dire perplexity and woe, And his spirit doom to pass With tumult wild from joy to grief, And back again from grief to joy, In fearful alternation; They in mercy then provide, In the precincts of his home, Or upon the distant shore, That to him may never fail Keady help in hours of need, A tranquil, faithful friend. Oh, bless, ye heavenly powers, our Pylades, And whatsoever he may undertake! He is in fight the vigorous arm of youth, And his the thoughtful eye of age in counsel; For tranquil is his soul; he guardeth there Of calm a sacred and exhaustless dower, And from its depths, in rich supply, outpours Comfort and counsel for the sore distressed. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 203 He tore me from my brother, upon whom, With fond amaze, I gaz 'd and gaz 'd again ; I could not realize my happiness, Nor loose him from my arms, and heeded not The danger's near approach that threatens us. To execute their project of escape, They hasten to the sea, where in a bay Their comrades in the vessel lie conceal 'd Waiting a signal. Me they have supplied With artful answers, should the monarch send To urge the sacrifice. Alas! I see I must consent to follow like a child, I have not learn 'd deception, nor the art To gain with crafty wiles my purposes. Detested falsehood! it doth not relieve The breast like words of truth : it comforts not, But is a torment in the forger's heart, And, like an arrow which a god directs, Flies back and wounds the archer. Through my heart One fear doth chase another; perhaps with rage, Again on the unconsecrated shore, The Furies' grisly band my brother seize. Perchance they are surpris'd! Methinks, I hear The tread of armed men. A messenger Is coming from the king, with hasty steps. How throbs my heart, how troubled is my soul, Now that I gaze upon the face of one, Whom with a word untrue I must encounter I SCENE II IPHIGENIA, AEKAS ARKAS Priestess, with speed conclude the sacrifice! Impatiently the king and people wait. 204 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IPHIGENIA I had perform 'd my duty and thy will, Had not an unforeseen impediment The execution of my purpose thwarted. ARKAS What is it that obstructs the king's commands? IPHIGENIA Chance, which from mortals will not brook control. ARKAS Possess me with the reason, that with speed I may inform the king, who hath decreed The death of both. IPHIGENIA The gods have not decreed it. The elder of these men doth bear the guilt Of kindred murder ; on his steps attend The dread Erinnys. In the inner fane They seized upon their prey, polluting thus The holy sanctuary. I hasten now, Together with my virgin-train, to bathe The goddess' image in the sea, and there With solemn rites its purity restore. Let none presume our silent march to follow! ARKAS This hindrance to the monarch I'll announce: Commence not thou the rite till he permit. IPHIGENIA The priestess interferes alone in this. ARKAS An incident so strange the king should know. IPHIGENIA Here, nor his counsel nor command avails. ARKAS Oft are the great consulted out of form. IPHIGENIA IN TAURIS 205 IPHIGENIA Do not insist on what I must refuse. ARKAS A needful and a just demand refuse not. IPHIGENIA I yield, if thou delay not. ARKAS I with speed Will bear these tidings to the camp, and soon Acquaint thee, priestess, with the king's reply. There is a message I would gladly bear him ; 'Twould quickly banish all perplexity: Thou didst not heed thy faithful friend's advice. IPHIGENIA I willingly have done whate'er I could. ARKAS E'en now 'tis not too late to change thy purpose. IPHIGENIA To do so is, alas, beyond our power. ARKAS What thou wouldst shun, thou deem'st impossible. IPHIGENIA Thy wish doth make thee deem it possible. ARKAS Wilt thou so calmly venture everything T IPHIGENIA My fate I have committed to the gods. IPHIGENIA By their appointment everything is done. 206 THE GERMAN CLASSICS AREAS Believe me, all doth now depend on thee. The irritated temper of the king Alone condemns these men to bitter death. The soldiers from the cruel sacrifice And bloody service long have been disused; Nay, many, whom their adverse fortunes cast In foreign regions, there themselves have felt How godlike to the exil'd wanderer The friendly countenance of man appears. Do not deprive us of thy gentle aid! With ease thou canst thy sacred task f ulfil ; For nowhere doth benignity, which comes In human form from heaven, so quickly gain An empire o'er the heart, as where a r.ace, Gloomy and savage, full of life and power, Without external guidance, and oppress 'd With vague forebodings, bear life 's heavy load. IPHIGENIA Shake not my spirit, which thou canst not bend According to thy will. ABKAS While there is time Nor labor nor persuasion shall be spar'd. IPHIGENIA Thy labor but occasions pain to me ; Both are in vain ; therefore, I pray, depart. ARKAS I summon pain to aid me, 'tis a friend Who counsels wisely. IPHIGENIA Though it shakes my soul, It doth not banish thence my strong repugnance. ARKAS Can then a gentle soul repugnance feel For benefits bestow 'd by one so noble! 206 -E GERMAN CLASSICS doth now tl mper of tl* hese men to bitter death. !ice isused; whom their o fortunes cast ign regions !ves have felt e to th< nderer lly countenance of man appears, ieprive us of thy gentle aid! ease thou caj* .'d task fulfil; .lowhere doth V v, which comes human form from .. so quickly gain An empire o'er th- as where a r.ace, Gloomy and savag f life and power, Without external e, and oppressed With va^ue foreboding IPHJGSW^ heavy load. 1PHIGBNIA Shake not my spirit, which thou canst not bend According to thy will. ARKAS there is time Nor labor nor persuasion shall be spared. IPHJGENIA Thy labor but occasions pain to me ; Both are in vain ; therefore, I pray, depart ARI I summon pain to aid me. 'tis a friend Who counsels wis< IPHIOBKIA Though it shakes my soul, Danish ' >y stroncr repugnance. From tk<' Painting by MTis done ! Full soon thou 'It see my exultation ; As for my bet no fears I entertain. And if my end I finally should gain, Excuse my triumphing with all my soul. Dust he shall eat, ay, and with relish take, As did my cousin, the renowned snake. THE LORD Here too thou'rt free to act without control; I ne 'er have cherished hate for such as thee. Of all the spirits who deny, The scoffer is least wearisome to me. Ever too prone is man activity to shirk, In unconditioned rest he fain would live ; Hence this companion purposely I give, Who stirs, excites, and must, as devil, work. But ye, the genuine sons of heaven, rejoice ! In the full living beauty still rejoice ! May that which works and lives, the ever-growing, In bonds of love enfold you, mercy-fraught, And Seeming 's changeful forms, around you flowing, Do ye arrest, in ever-during thought ! [Heaven closes, the Archangels disperse.] MEPHISTOPHELES (alone) The ancient one I like sometimes to see, And not to break with him am always civil ; 'Tis courteous in so great a lord as he, To speak so kindly even to the devil. 260 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST PART I (1808)* TRANSLATED BY ANNA SWAN WICK NIGHT A high vaulted narrow Gothic chamber. FAUST, restless, seated at his desk. FAUST [HAVE, alas! Philosophy, Medicine, Jurisprudence too, And to my cost Theology, With ardent labor, studied through. And here I stand, with all my lore, Poor fool, no wiser than before. Magister, doctor styled, indeed, Already these ten years I lead, Up, down, across, and to and fro, My pupils by the nose, and learn, That we in truth can nothing know ! That in my heart like fire doth burn. 'Tis true, I've more cunning than all your dull tribe, Magister and doctor, priest, parson, and scribe; Scruple or doubt comes not to enthrall me, Neither can devil nor hell now appal me Hence also my heart must all pleasure forego 1 I may not pretend aught rightly to know, I may not pretend, through teaching, to find A means to improve or convert mankind. Then I have neither goods nor treasure, No worldly honor, rank, or pleasure; No dog in such fashion would longer live I Therefore myself to magic I give, In hope, through spirit-voice and might, Secrets now veiled to bring to light, That I no more, with aching brow, Need speak of what I nothing know ; * Permission The Macmillan Co., New York, and G. Bell and Sons, Ltd., London. FAUST PART I 261 That I the force may recognize That binds creation's inmost energies; Her vital powers, her embryo seeds survey, And fling the trade in empty words away. full-orb 'd moon, did but thy rays Their last upon mine anguish gaze ! Beside this desk, at dead of night, Oft have I watched to hail thy light : Then, pensive friend! o'er book and scroll, With soothing power, thy radiance stole! In thy dear light, ah, might I climb, Freely, some mountain height sublime, Round mountain caves with spirits ride, In thy mild haze o'er meadows glide, And, purged from knowledge-fumes, renew My spirit, in thy healing dew! Woe's me! still prison 'd in the gloom Of this abhorr'd and musty room! Where heaven's dear light itself doth pass But dimly through the painted glass ! Hemmed in by book-heaps, piled around, Worm-eaten, hid 'neath dust and mold, Which to the high vault's topmast bound, A smoke-stained paper doth enfold ; With boxes round thee piled, and glass, And many a useless instrument, With old ancestral lumber blent This is thy world ! a world ! alas ! And dost thou ask why heaves thy heart, With tighten 'd pressure in thy breastt Why the dull ache will not depart, By which thy life-pulse is oppress 'dT Instead of nature's living sphere, Created for mankind of old, Brute skeletons surround thee here, And dead men's bones in smoke and mold. 262 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Up! Forth into the distant land! Is not this book of mystery By Nostradamus' proper hand, An all-sufficient guide? Thou 'It see The courses of the stars unroll 'd; When nature doth her thoughts unfold To thee, thy soul shall rise, and seek Communion high with her to hold, As spirit doth with spirit speak ! Vain by dull poring to divine The meaning of each hallow 'd sign. Spirits ! I feel you hov 'ring near ; Make answer, if my voice ye hear! [He opens the book and perceives the sign of the Macrocosmos.] Ah! at this spectacle through every sense, What sudden ecstasy of joy is flowing ! I feel new rapture, hallow 'd and intense, Through every nerve and vein with ardor glowing. Was it a god who character 'd this scroll, The tumult in my spirit healing, 'er my sad heart with rapture stealing, And by a mystic impulse, to my soul, The powers of nature all around revealing. Am I a god? What light intense In these pure symbols do I see Nature exert her vital energy? Now of the wise man's words I learn the sense; " Unlock 'd the spirit-world is lying, Thy sense is shut, thy heart is dead! Up scholar, lave, with zeal undying, Thine earthly breast in the morning-red!" [He contemplates the sign.] How all things live and work, and ever blending, Weave one vast whole from Being's ample range! How powers celestial, rising and descending, FAUST PART I 263 Their golden buckets ceaseless interchange ! Their flight on rapture-breathing pinions winging, From heaven to earth their genial influence bringing, Through the wild sphere their chimes melodious ringing ! A wondrous show! but ah! a show alone! Where shall I grasp thee, infinite nature, where! Ye breasts, ye fountains of all life, whereon Hang heaven and earth, from which the withered heart For solace yearns, ye still impart Your sweet and fostering tides where are ye where! Ye gush, and must I languish in despair? [He turns over the leaves of the book impatiently, and perceives the sign of the Earth-spirit.] How all unlike the influence of this sign! Earth-spirit, thou to me art nigher, E 'en now my strength is rising higher, E 'en now I glow as with new wine ; Courage I feel, abroad the world to dare, The woe of earth, the bliss of earth to bear, With storms to wrestle, brave the lightning's glare, And mid the crashing shipwreck not despair. Clouds gather over me The moon conceals her light The lamp is quench 'd Vapors are arising Quiv'ring round my head Flash the red beams Down from the vaulted roof A shuddering horror floats, And seizes me ! I feel it, spirit, prayer-compelPd, 'tis thou Art hovering near ! Unveil thyself! Ha ! How my heart is riven now ! Each sense, with eager palpitation, Is strain 'd to catch some new sensation! 264 THE GERMAN CLASSICS I feel my heart surrender 'd unto thee! Thou must! Thou must! Though life should be the fee! [He seizes the book, and pronounces mysteriously the sign of the spirit. A ruddy flame flashes up; the spirit appears in the flame.] SPIRIT Who calls me? FAUstf (turning aside) Dreadful shape! SPIRIT With might, Thou hast compell'd me to appear, Long hast been sucking at my sphere, And now FAUST Woe's me! I cannot bear thy sight! SPIRIT To see me thou dost breathe thine invocation, My voice to hear, to gaze upon my brow ; Me doth thy strong entreaty bow Lo ! I am here ! What cowering agitation Grasps thee, the demigod! Where's now the soul's deep cry? Where is the breast, which in its depths a world conceiv'd, And bore and cherished? which, with ecstasy, To rank itself with us, the spirits, heaved? Where art thou, Faust? Whose voice heard I resound Who toward me press 'd with energy profound? Art thou he ? Thou, who by my breath art blighted, Who, in his spirit's depths affrighted, Trembles, a crush 'd and writhing worm! FAUST Shall I yield, thing of flame, to theeT Faust, and thine equal, I am he I FAUST PART I 265 SPIRIT In the currents of life, in action's storm, I float and I wave With billowy motion! Birth and the grave, limitless ocean, A constant weaving With change still rife, A restless heaving, A glowing life Thus time's whirring loom unceasing I ply, And weave the life-garment of deity. FAUST Thou, restless spirit, dost from end to end O'ersweep the world; how near I feel to thee! SPIRIT Thou'rt like the spirit, thou dost comprehend, Not me! [Vanishes.] FAUST (deeply moved) Not thee? Whom then? I, God's own image! And not rank with thee! [A knock.} Oh death ! I know it 'tis my famulus My fairest fortune now escapes ! That all these visionary shapes A soulless groveller should banish thus ! [WAGNER wi his dressing gown and night-cap, a lamp in his hand. FAUST turns round reluctantly.] WAGNER Pardon! I heard you here declaim; A Grecian tragedy you doubtless read? Improvement in this art is now my aim, For now-a-days it much avails. Indeed An actor, oft I've heard it said, as teacher, May give instruction to a preacher. 266 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST Ay, if your priest should be an actor too, As not improbably may come to pass. WAGNER When in his study pent the whole year through, Man views the world, as through an optic glass, On a chance holiday, and scarcely then, How by persuasion c.an he govern men? f FAUST If feeling prompt not, if it doth not flow Fresh from the spirit's depths, with strong control Swaying to rapture every listener's soul, Idle your toil ; the chase you may forego ! Brood o'er your task! Together glue, Cook from another's feast your own ragout, Still prosecute your paltry game, And fan your ash-heaps into flame ! Thus children's wonder you'll excite, And apes ', if such your appetite ; But that which issues from the heart alone, Will bend the hearts of others to your own. WAGNEB The speaker in delivery will find Success alone ; I still am far behind. FAUST A worthy object still pursue ! Be not a hollow tinkling fool ! Sound understanding, judgment true, Find utterance without art or rule ; And when in earnest you are moved to speak, Then is it needful cunning words to seek? Your fine harangues, so polish 'd in their kind, Wherein the shreds of human thought ye twist, Are unrefreshing as the empty wind, Whistling through wither 'd leaves and autumn mist I FAUST PARTI 267 WAGNEB Oh God ! How long is art, Our life how short ! With earnest zeal Still as I ply the critic's task, I feel A strange oppression both of head and heart. The very means how hardly are they won, By which we to the fountains rise ! And, haply, ere one half the course is run, Check 'd in his progress, the poor devil dies. FAUST Parchment, is that the sacred fount whence roll Waters he thirsteth not who once hath quaffed ! Oh, if it gush not from thine inmost soul, Thou hast not won the life-restoring draught. WAGNER Your pardon ! 'tis delightf ul to transport Oneself into the spirit of the past, To see in times before us how a wise man thought, And what a glorious height we have achieved at last. FAUST Ay, truly ! even to the loftiest star ! To us, my friend, the ages that are pass'd A book with seven seals, close-fasten 'd, are; And what the spirit of the times men call, Is merely their own spirit after all, Wherein, distorted oft, the times are glass 'd. Then truly, 'tis a sight to grieve the soul! At the first glance we fly it in dismay ; A very lumber-room, a rubbish-hole; At best a sort of mock-heroic play, With saws pragmatical, and maxims sage, To suit the puppets and their mimic stage. WAGNEB But then the world and man, his heart and brain! Touching these things all men would something know. 268 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST Ay ! what 'mong men as knowledge doth obtain ! Who on the child its true name dares bestow? The few who somewhat of these things have known, Who their full hearts unguardedly reveal 'd, Nor thoughts, nor feelings, from the mob conceal 'd, Have died on crosses, or in flames been thrown. Excuse me, friend^ far now the night is spent, For this time we must say adieu. WAGNER Still to watch on I had been well content, Thus to converse so learnedly with you. But as tomorrow will be Easter-day, Some further questions grant, I pray; With diligence to study still I fondly cling; Already I know much, but would know everything. [Exit.] FAUST (alone) How him alone all hope abandons never, To empty trash who clings, with zeal untired, With greed for treasure gropes, and, joy-inspir'd, Exults if earth-worms second his endeavor. And dare a voice of merely human birth, E'en here, where shapes immortal throng 'd, intrude! Yet ah ! thou poorest of the sons of earth, For once, I e'en to thee feel gratitude. Despair the power of sense did well-nigh blast, And thou didst save me ere I sank dismay 'd; So giant-like the vision seem'd, so vast, I felt myself shrink dwarf 'd as I survey 'd! I, God's own image, from this toil of clay Already freed, with eager joy who hail'd The mirror of eternal truth unveil 'd, Mid light effulgent and celestial day: I, more than cherub, whose unfetter'd soul With penetrative glance aspir'd to flow Through nature's veins, and, still creating, know FAUST PART I 269 The life of gods, how am I punish 'd now I One thunder-word hath hurl'd me from the goal I Spirit ! I dare not lift me to thy sphere. What though my power compelPd thee to appear, My art was powerless to detain thee here. In that great moment, rapture-fraught, I felt myself so small, so great ; Fiercely didst thrust me from the realm of thought Back on humanity's uncertain fate I Who'll teach me now! What ought I to forego? Ought I that impulse to obey! Alas ! our every deed, as well as every woe, Impedes the tenor of life's onward way! E'en to the noblest by the soul conceiv'd, Some feelings cling of baser quality; And when the goods of this world are achiev'd, Each nobler aim is term'd a cheat, a lie. Our aspirations, our soul's genuine life, Grow torpid in the din of earthly strife. Though youthful phantasy, while hope inspires, Stretch o 'er the infinite her wing sublime, A narrow compass limits her desires, When wreck 'd our fortunes in the gulf of time. In the deep heart of man care builds her nest, O'er secret woes she broodeth there, Sleepless she rocks herself and scareth joy and rest; Still is she wont some new disguise to wear She may as house and court, as wife and child appear, As dagger, poison, fire and flood; Imagined evils chill thy blood, And what thou ne'er shalt lose, o'er that dost shed the tear. I am not like the gods ! Feel it I must ; I'm like the earth-worm, writhing in the dust, Which, as on dust it feeds, its native fare, Crushed 'neath the passer's tread, lies buried there. 270 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Is it not dust, wherewith this lofty wall, With hundred shelves, confines me round ; Rubbish, in thousand shapes, may I not call What in this moth-world doth my being bound? Here, what doth fail me, shall I find? Read in a thousand tomes that, everywhere, Self-torture is the lot of human-kind, With but one mprtal happy, here and there ? Thou hollow skull, that grin, what should it say, But that thy brain, like mine, of old perplexed, Still yearning for the truth, hath sought the light of day, And in the twilight wandered, sorely vexed? Ye instruments, forsooth, ye mock at me, With wheel, and cog, and ring, and cylinder; To nature 's portals ye should be the key ; Cunning your wards, and yet the bolts ye fail to stir. Inscrutable in broadest light, To be unveil 'd by force she doth refuse, What she reveals not to thy mental sight Thou wilt not wrest from her with levers and with screws. Old useless furnitures, yet stand ye here, Because my sire ye served, now dead and gone. Old scroll, the smoke of years dost wear, So long as o'er this desk the sorry lamp hath shone. Better my little means hath squandered quite away Than burden 'd by that little here to sweat and groan! Wouldst thou possess thy heritage, essay By use to render it thine own! What we employ not but impedes our way ; That which the hour creates, that can it use alone I But wherefore to yon spot is riveted my gaze? Is yonder flasket there a magnet to my sight ? Whence this mild radiance that around me plays, As when, 'mid forest gloom, reigneth the moon's soft light? Hail, precious phial ! Thee, with reverent awe, Down from thine old receptacle I draw! Science in thee I hail and human art. FAUST PAKT I 271 Essence of deadliest powers, refin'd and sure, Of soothing anodynes abstraction pure, Now in thy master's need thy grace impart! I gaze on thee, my pain is lull'd to rest; I grasp thee, calm'd the tumult in my breast; The flood-tide of my spirit ebbs away ; Onward I'm summon 'd o'er a boundless main, Calm at my feet expands the glassy plain, To shores unknown allures a brighter day. Lo, where a car of fire, on airy pinion, Comes floating towards me! I'm prepar'd to fly By a new track through ether 's wide dominion, To distant spheres of pure activity. This life intense, this godlike ecstasy Worm that thou art such rapture canst thou earn? Only resolve, with courage stern and high, Thy visage from the radiant sun to turn! Dare with determin'd will to burst the portals Past which in terror others fain would steal ! Now is the time, through deeds, to show that mortals The calm sublimity of gods can feel ; To shudder not at yonder dark abyss Where phantasy creates her own self-torturing brood ; Right onward to the yawning gulf to press, Around whose narrow jaws rolleth hell's fiery flood; With glad resolve to take the fatal leap, Though danger threaten thee, to sink in endless sleep! Pure crystal goblet ! forth I draw thee now From out thine antiquated case, where thou Forgotten hast reposed for many a year ! Oft at my father's revels thou didst shine; To glad the earnest guests was thine, As each to other passed the generous cheer. The gorgeous brede of figures, quaintly wrought, Which he who quaff 'd must first in rhyme expound, Then drain the goblet at one draught profound, 272 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Hath nights of boyhood to fond memory brought. I to my neighbor shall not reach thee now, Nor on thy rich device shall I my cunning show. Here is a juice, makes drunk without delay; Its dark brown flood thy crystal round doth fill ; Let this last draught, the product of my skill, My own free choice, be quaff 'd with resolute will, A solemn festive greeting, to the coming day ! [He places the goblet to his mouth.] [The ringing of bells, and choral voices.] CHORUS OF ANGELS Christ is arisen! Mortal, all hail to thee, Thou whom mortality, Earth's sad reality, Held as in prison. FAUST What hum melodious, what clear silvery chime, Thus draws the goblet from my lips away? Ye deep-ton 'd bells, do ye, with voice sublime, Announce the solemn dawn of Easter-day? Sweet choir! are ye the hymn of comfort singing, Which once around the darkness of the grave, From seraph-voices, in glad triumph ringing, Of a new covenant assurance gave? CHORUS OF WOMEN We, his true-hearted, With spices and myrrh. Embalmed the departed, And swathed Him with care; Here we conveyed Him, Our Master, so dear; Alas! Where we laid Him, The Christ is not here. FAUST PARTI 273 CHOBUS OF ANGELS Christ is arisen ! Blessed the loving one, Who from earth's trial-throes, Healing and strengthening woes, Soars as from prison. FAUST Wherefore, ye tones celestial, sweet and strong, Come ye a dweller in the dust to seek? Eing out your chimes believing crowds among, The message well I hear, my faith alone is weak; From faith her darling, miracle, hath sprung. Aloft to yonder spheres I dare not soar, Whence sound the tidings of great joy; And yet, with this sweet strain familiar when a boy, Back it recalleth me to life once more. Then would celestial love, with holy kiss, Come o'er me in the Sabbath's stilly hour, While, fraught with solemn meaning and mysterious power, Chim'd the deep-sounding bell, and prayer was bliss; A yearning impulse, undefin'd yet dear, Drove me to wander on through wood and field; With heaving breast and many a burning tear, I felt with holy joy a world reveal'd. Gay sports and festive hours proclaim 'd with joyous pealing This Easter hymn in days of old; And fond remembrance now doth me, with childlike feeling, Back from the last, the solemn step, withhold. still sound on, thou sweet celestial strain ! The tear-drop flows Earth, I am thine again ! VOL. 1 18 274 THE GERMAN CLASSICS CHORUS OF DISCIPLES He whom we mourned as dead, Living and glorious, From the dark grave hath fled, O'er death victorious; Almost creative bliss Waits on His growing powers; Ah ! Him on earth we miss ; 'Sorrow and grief are ours. Yearning He left His own, Mid sore annoy; Ah ! we must needs bemoan, Master, thy joy! CHOBTJS OF ANGELS Christ is arisen, Redeem 'd from decay. The bonds which imprison Your souls, rend away! Praising the Lord with zeal, By deeds that love reveal, Lake brethren true and leal Sharing the daily meal, To all that sorrow feel Whisp'ring of heaven's weal, Still is the Master near, Still is He here! BEFORE THE GATE Promenaders of all sorts pass out. ARTISANS Why choose ye that direction, pray? OTHERS To the hunting-lodge we're on our way. THE FIRST We toward the mill are strolling on. FAUST PART I 275 A MECHANIC A walk to Wasserhof were best. A SECOND The road is not a pleasant one. THE OTHEBS What will you dot A THIRD I'll join the rest. A FOURTH Let's up to Burghof, there you'll find good cheer, The prettiest maidens and the best of beer, And brawls of a prime sort. A FIFTH You scapegrace! How? Your skin still itching for a row? Thither I will not go, I loathe the place. SERVANT GIRL No, no ! I to the town my steps retrace. ANOTHER Near yonder poplars he is sure to be. THE FIRST And if he is, what matters it to me ! With you he'll walk, he'll dance with none but you, And with your pleasures what have I to do ? THE SECOND Today he will not be alone, he said His friend would be with him, the curly-head. STUDENT Why how those buxom girls step on ! Come, brother, we will follow them anon. Strong beer, a damsel smartly dress 'd, Stinging tobacco these I love the best. 276 THE GERMAN CLASSICS BUBGHEB'S DAUGHTEB Look at those handsome fellows there! 'Tis really shameful, I declare ; The very best society they shun, After those servant-girls forsooth, to run. SECOND STUDENT (to the first) Not quite so* fast ! for in our rear, Two girls, well-dress 'd, are drawing near ; Not far from us the one doth dwell, And, sooth to say, I like her well. They walk demurely, yet you'll see, That they will let us join them presently. THE FIBST Not I ! restraints of all kinds I detest. Quick ! let us catch the wild-game ere it flies ; The hand on Saturday the mop that plies Will on the Sunday fondle you the best. BUBGHEB No, this new Burgomaster ; I like him not, God knows ; No, he 's in office ; daily more arrogant he grows ; And for the town, what doth he do for it? Are not things worse from day to day? To more restraints we must submit ; And taxes more than ever pay. BEGGAB (sings) Kind gentlemen and ladies fair, So rosy-cheek 'd and trimly dress 'd, Be pleas 'd to listen to my prayer ; Believe and pity the distress 'd. Let me not vainly sing my lay! His heart's most glad whose hand is free. Now when all men keep holiday, Should be a harvest-day to me. FAUST PART I 277 ANOTHER BURGHER On holidays and Sundays naught know I more inviting Than chatting about war and war's alarms, When folk in Turkey, up in arms, Far off, are 'gainst each other fighting. We at the window stand, our glasses drain And watch adown the stream the painted vessels gliding; Then joyful we at eve come home again, And peaceful times we bless, peace long-abiding. THIRD BURGHER Ay, neighbor ! 'So let matters stand for me ! There they may scatter one another's brains, And wild confusion round them see So here at home in quiet all remains ! OLD WOMAN (to the BURGHERS ' DAUGHTERS) Heyday ! How smart ! The fresh young blood ! Who would not fall in love with you? Not quite so proud ! 'Tis well and good ! And what you wish, that I could help you to. BURGHER'S DAUGHTER Come, Agatha! I care not to be seen Walking in public with these witches. True, My future lover, last St. Andrew's E'en, In flesh and blood she brought before my view. ANOTHER And mine she show'd me also in the glass. A soldier's figure, with companions bold; I look around, I seek him as I pass In vain, his form I nowhere can behold. SOLDIERS Fortress with turrets And walls high in air, Damsel disdainful, Haughty and fair 278 THE GERMAN CLASSICS These be my prey! Bold is the venture, Costly the pay ! Hark, how the trumpet Thither doth call us Where either pleasure Or death may befall us ! * Hail to the tumult ! Life's in the field! Damsel and fortress To us must yield. Bold is the venture, Costly the pay! Gaily the soldier Marches away. FAUST and WAGNER FAUST Loosed from their fetters are streams and rills Through the gracious spring-tide 's all-quickening glow ; Hope's budding joy in the vale doth blow; Old Winter back to the savage hills Withdraweth his force, decrepid now. Thence only impotent icy grains Scatters he as he wings his flight, Striping with sleet the verdant plains ; But the sun endureth no trace of white ; Everywhere growth and movement are rife, All things investing with hues of life: Though flowers are lacking, varied of dye, Their colors the motley throng supply. Turn thee around, and, from this height, Back to the town direct thy sight. Forth from the hollow, gloomy gate, Stream forth the masses, in bright array. Gladly seek they the sun today; FAUST PARTI 279 The Lord 's Resurrection they celebrate : For they themselves have risen, with joy, From tenement sordid, from cheerless room, From bonds of toil, from care and annoy, From gable and roof's o'er hanging gloom, From crowded alley and narrow street, And from the churches' awe-breathing night All now have come forth into the light. Look, only look, on nimble feet, Through garden and field how spread the throng, How o'er the river's ample sheet Many a gay wherry glides along; And see, deep sinking in the tide, Pushes the last boat now away. E'en from yon far hill's path-worn side, Flash the bright hues of garments gay. Hark ! Sounds of village mirth arise ; This is the people's paradise. Both great and small send up a cheer j Here am I man, I feel it here. WAGNER Sir Doctor, in a walk with you There's honor and instruction too; Yet here alone I care not to resort, Because I coarseness hate of every sort. This fiddling, shouting, skittling, I detest; I hate the tumult of the vulgar throng; They roar as by the evil one possess 'd, And call it pleasure, call it song. PEASANTS (under the linden-tree) Dance and Sing. The shepherd for the dance was dress 'd, With ribbon, wreath, and colored vest, A gallant show displaying. And round about the linden-tree, 280 THE GERMAN CLASSICS They footed it right merrily. Juchhe ! Juchhe ! Juchheisa ! Heisa ! He ! So fiddle-bow was braying. Our swain amidst the circle press 'd, He push'd a maiden trimly dress 'd, And jogg'd her with his elbow; The buxom damsel turn'd her head. 7 " Now that's a stupid trick!" she said, Juchhe ! Juchhe ! Juchheisa ! Heisa ! He ! Don't be so rude, good fellow! Swift in the circle they advanced, They danced to right, to left they danced, And all the skirts were swinging. And they grew red, and they grew warm, Panting, they rested arm in arm, Juchhe ! Juchhe ! Juchheisa ! Heisa ! He ! To hip their elbow bringing. Don't make so free! How many a maid Has been be troth 'd and then be tray 'd; And has repented after! Yet still he flatter 'd her aside, And from the linden, far and wide, Juchhe ! Juchhe ! Juchheisa ! Heisa ! He ! Bang fiddle-bow and laughter. OLD PEASANT Doctor, 'tis really kind of you, To condescend to come this way, A highly learned man like you, To join our mirthful throng today. Our fairest cup I offer you, Which we with sparkling drink have crown 'd, FAUST PAETI 281 And pledging you, I pray aloud, That every drop within its round, While it your present thirst allays, May swell the number of your days. FAUST I take the cup you kindly reach, Thanks and prosperity to each! [The crowd gather round in a circle.] OLD PEASANT Ay, truly ! 'tis well done, that you Our festive meeting thus attend ; You, who in evil days of yore, So often show'd yourself our friend I Full many a one stands living here, Who from the fever's deadly blast Your father rescu'd, when his skill The fatal sickness stay'd at last. A young man then, each house you sought, Where reign 'd the mortal pestilence. Corpse after corpse was carried forth, But still unscath'd you issued thence. Sore then your trials and severe ; The Helper yonder aids the helper here. AJ.-L Heaven bless the trusty friend, and long To help the poor his life prolong! FAUST To Him above in homage bend, Who prompts the helper and Who help doth send. [He proceeds with WAGNER.} WAGNEB What feelings, great man, must thy breast inspire, At homage paid thee by this crowd ! Thrice blest Who from the gifts by him possessed Such benefit can draw ! The sire Thee to his boy with reverence shows ; 282 THE GERMAN CLASSICS They press around, inquire, advance, Hush'd is the fiddle, check 'd the dance. Where thou dost pass they stand in rows, And each aloft his bonnet throws, But little fails and they to thee, As though the Host came by, would bend the knee. FAUST A few steps further, up to yonder stone ! Here rest wo from our walk. In times long past, Absorb 'd in thought, here oft I sat alone, And disciplin'd myself with prayer and fast. Then rich in hope, with faith sincere, With sighs, and hands in anguish press 'd, The end of that sore plague, with many a tear, From heaven's dread Lord, I sought to wrest. The crowd's applause assumes a scornful tone. Oh, could 'st thou in my inner being read How little either sire or son Of such renown deserves the meed! My sire, of good repute, and sombre mood, O'er nature's powers and every mystic zone, With honest zeal, but methods of his own, With toil fantastic loved to brood ; His time in dark alchemic cell, With brother-adepts he would spend, And there antagonists compel Through numberless receipts to blend. A ruddy lion there, a suitor bold, In tepid bath was with the lily wed. Thence both, while open flames around them roll'd, Were tortur'd to another bridal bed. Was then the youthful queen descried With varied colors in the flask This was our medicine ; the patients died ; " Who were restored?" none cared to ask. With our infernal mixture thus, ere long, These hills and peaceful vales among FAUST PART I 283 We rag'd more fiercely than the pest; Myself the deadly poison did to thousands give; They pined away, I yet must live To hear the reckless murderers blest. WAGNER Why let this thought your soul o'ercastf Can man do more than with nice skill, With firm and conscientious will, Practise the art transmitted from the past? If thou thy sire dost honor in thy youth, His lore thou gladly wilt receive; In manhood, dost thou spread the bounds of truth, Then may thy son a higher goal achieve. FAUST How blest, in whom the fond desire From error's sea to rise, hope still renews! What a man knows not, that he doth require, And what he knoweth, that he cannot use. But let not moody thoughts their shadow throw O'er the calm beauty of this hour serene! In the rich sunset see how brightly glow Yon cottage homes, girt round with verdant green! Slow sinks the orb, the day is now no more ; Yonder he hastens to diffuse new life. Oh for a pinion from the earth to soar, And after, ever after him to strive ! Then should I see the world below, Bathed in the deathless evening-beams, The vales reposing, every height a-glow, The silver brooklets meeting golden streams. The savage mountain, with its cavern 'd side, Bars not my godlike progress. Lo, the ocean, Its warm bays heaving with a tranquil motion, To my rapt vision opes its ample tide! But now at length the god appears to sink; A new-born impulse wings my flight, 284 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Onward I press, Ms quenchless light to drink, The day before me, and behind the night, The pathless waves beneath, and over me the skies. Fair dream, it vanished with the parting day! Alas ! that when on spirit-wing we rise, No wing material lifts our mortal clay. But 'tis our inborn impulse, deep and strong, Upwards and onwards still to urge our flight, When far above us pours its thrilling song The sky-lark, lost in azure light; When on extended wing amain O'er pine-crown 'd height the eagle soars; And over moor and lake, the crane Still striveth toward its native shores. WAGNER To strange conceits oft I myself must own, But impulse such as this I ne 'er have known : Nor woods, nor fields, can long our thoughts engage ; Their wings I envy not the feather 'd kind ; Far otherwise the pleasures of the mind Bear us from book to book, from page to page! Then winter nights grow cheerful ; keen delight Warms every limb ; and ah ! when we unroll Some old and precious parchment, at the sight All heaven itself descends upon the soul. FAUST Thy heart by one sole impulse is possess 'd; Unconscious of the other still remain! Two souls, alas! are lodg'd within my breast, Which struggle there for undivided reign: One to the world, with obstinate desire, And closely-cleaving organs, still adheres; Above the mist, the other doth aspire, With sacred vehemence, to purer spheres. Oh, are there spirits in the air Who float 'twixt heaven and earth dominion, wielding, Stoop hither from your golden atmosphere, FAUST PART I 285 Lead me to scenes, new life and fuller yielding I A magic mantle did I but possess, Abroad to waft me as on viewless wings, I'd prize it far beyond the costliest dress, Nor would I change it for the robe of kings. WAGNER Call not the spirits who on mischief wait! Their troop familiar, streaming through the air, From every quarter threaten man's estate, And danger in a thousand forms prepare! They drive impetuous from the frozen north, With fangs sharp-piercing, and keen arrowy tongues ; From the ungenial east they issue forth, And prey, with parching breath, upon thy lungs ; If, waft'd on the desert's flaming wing, They from the south heap fire upon the brain, Refreshment from the west at first they bring, Anon to drown thyself and field and plain. In wait for mischief, they are prompt to hear; With guileful purpose our behests obey; Like ministers of grace they oft appear, And lisp like angels, to betray. But let us hence ! Gray eve doth all things blend, The air grows chill, the mists descend! 'Tis in the evening first our home we prize Why stand you thus, and gaze with wondering eyest What in the gloom thus moves you! FAUST Yon black hound See'st thou, through corn and stubble scampering round? WAGNEB I've mark'd him long, naught strange in him I see! FAUST Note him! What takest thou the brute to bet 286 THE GERMAN CLASSICS WAGNER But for a poodle, whom his instinct serves His master's track to find once more. FAUST Dost mark how round us, with wide spiral curves, He wheels, eadi circle closer than before? And, if I err not, he appears to me A line of fire upon his track to leave. WAGNER Naught but a poodle black of hue I see ; 'Tis some illusion doth your sight deceive. FAUST Methinks a magic coil our feet around, He for a future snare doth lightly spread. WAGNER Around us as in doubt I see him shyly bound, Since he two strangers seeth in his master's stead. FAUST The circle narrows, he's already near I WAGNER A dog dost see, no spectre have we here; He growls, doubts, lays him on his belly too, And wags his tail as dogs are wont to do. FAUST Come hither, Sirrah! join our company! WAGNER A very poodle, he appears to be! Thou standest still, for thee he'll wait; Thou speak 'st to him, he fawns upon thee straight; Aught thou mayst lose, again he'll bring, And for thy stick will into water spring. FAUST PART I 287 FAUST Thou'rt right indeed; no traces now I see Whatever of a spirit's agency, 'Tis training nothing more. WAGNER A dog well taught E 'en by the wisest of us may be sought. Ay, to your favor he's entitled too, Apt scholar of the students, 'tis his due! [They enter the gate of the town.] STUDY FAUST (entering with the poodle) Now field and meadow I've forsaken; O'er them deep night her veil doth draw; In us the better soul doth waken, With feelings of foreboding awe. All lawless promptings, deeds unholy, Now slumber, and all wild desires; The love of man doth sway us wholly, And love to God the soul inspires. Peace, poodle, peace ! Scamper not thus ; obey me 1 Why at the threshold snuffest thou so? Behind the stove now quietly lay thee, My softest cushion to thee I'll throw. As thou, without, didst please and amuse me, Running and frisking about on the hill, So tendance now I will not refuse thee ; A welcome guest, if thou 'It be still. Ah! when the friendly taper gloweth, Once more within our narrow cell, Then in the heart itself that knoweth, A light the darkness doth dispel. Reason her voice resumes; returneth Hope's gracious bloom, with promise rife; For streams of life the spirit yearneth, Ah ! for the very fount of life. 288 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Poodle, snarl not ! with the tone that arises, Hallow M and peaceful, my soul within, Accords not thy growl, thy bestial din. We find it not strange, that man despises What he conceives not; That he the good and fair misprizes Finding them- often beyond his ken ; Will the dog snarl at them like men! But ah ! Despite my will, it stands confessed ; Contentment welleth up no longer in my breast. Yet wherefore must the stream, alas, so soon be dry, That we once more athirst should lie? Full oft this sad experience hath been mine; Nathless the want admits of compensation; For things above the earth we learn to pine, Our spirits yearn for revelation, Which nowhere burns with purer beauty blent, Than here in the New Testament. To ope the ancient text an impulse strong Impels me, and its sacred lore, With honest purpose to explore, And render into my loved German tongue. [He opens a volume and applies himself to it.] 'Tis writ, " In the beginning was the Word! " I pause, perplex 'd! Who now will help afford? I cannot the mere Word so highly prize; I must translate it otherwise, If by the spirit guided as I read. " In the beginning was the Sense! " Take heed, The import of this primal sentence weigh, Lest thy too hasty pen be led astray! Is force creative then of Sense the dower? ' ' In the beginning was the Power ! ' ' Thus should it stand: yet, while the line I trace, A something warns me, once more to efface. The spirit aids! from anxious scruples freed, I write, " In the beginning was the Deed! " FAUST PARTI 289 Am I with thee my room to share, Poodle, thy barking now forbear, Forbear thy howling! Comrade so noisy, ever growling, I cannot suffer here to dwell. One or the other, mark me well, Forthwith must leave the cell. Fm loath the guest- right to withhold; The door's ajar, the passage clear; But what must now mine eyes behold! Are nature's laws suspended here! Real is it, or a phantom show? In length and breadth how doth my poodle grow ! He lifts himself with threat 'ning mien, In likeness of a dog no longer seen! What spectre have I harbor 'd thus! Huge as a hippopotamus, With fiery eye, terrific tooth! Ah! now I know thee, sure enough! For such a base, half-hellish brood, The key of Solomon is good. SPIEITS (without) Captur'd there within is one! Stay without and follow none! Like a fox in iron snare, Hell's old lynx is quaking there, But take heed! Hover round, above, below, To and fro, Then from durance is he freed ! Can ye aid him, spirits all, Leave him not in mortal thrall! Many a time and oft hath he Served us, when at liberty. VOL. 1 19 290 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST The monster to confront, at first, The spell of Four must be rehears 'd; Salamander shall kindle, Writhe nymph of the wave, In air syjph shall dwindle, And Kobold shall slave. Who doth ignore The primal Four, Nor knows aright Their use and might, O'er spirits will he Ne 'er master be ! Vanish in the fiery glow, Salamander ! Rushingly together flow, Undine ! Shimmer in the meteor's gleam, Sylphide ! Hither bring thine homely aid, Incubus ! Incubus ! Step forth! I do adjure thee thus! None of the Four Lurks in the beast: He grins at me, untroubled as before; I have not hurt him in the least. A spell of fear Thou now shalt hear. Art thou, comrade fell, Fugitive from Hell? See then this sign, Before which incline The murky troops of Hell! With bristling hair now doth the creature swell. FAUST PART I 291 Canst thou, reprobate, Read the uncreate, Unspeakable, diffused Throughout the heavenly sphere, Shamefully abused, Transpierced with nail and spear! Behind the stove, tam'd by my spells, Like an elephant he swells; Wholly now he fills the room, He into mist will melt away. Ascend not to the ceiling! Come, Thyself at the master's feet now lay! Thou seest that mine is no idle threat. With holy fire I will scorch thee yet! Wait not the might That lies in the triple-glowing light! Wait not the might Of all my arts in fullest measure! MEPHISTOPHELES (as the mist sinks, comes forward from behind the stove, in the dress of a traveling scholar) Why all this uproar! What's the master's pleasure? FAUST This then the kernel of the brute! A traveling scholar f Why I needs must smile. MEPHISTOPHELES Your learned reverence humbly I salute! You've made me swelter in a pretty style. FAUST Thy name? MEPHISTOPHELES The question trifling seems from one, Who it appears the Word doth rate so low; Who, undeluded by mere outward show, To Being's depths would penetrate alone. 292 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST "With gentlemen like you indeed The inward essence from the name we read, As all too plainly it doth appear, When Beelzebub, Destroyer, Liar, meets the ear. Who then art thou? MEPHISTOPHELES Part of that power which still Produceth good, whilst ever scheming ill. FAUST What hidden mystery in this riddle liesT MEPHISTOPHELES The spirit I, which evermore denies! And justly ; for whate 'er to light is brought Deserves again to be reduced to naught; Then better 'twere that naught should be. Thus all the elements which ye Destruction, Sin, or briefly, Evil, name, As my peculiar element I claim. FAUST Thou nam'st thyself a part, and yet a whole I see. MEPHISTOPHELES The modest truth I speak to thee. ^Though folly's microcosm, man, it seems, Himself to be a perfect whole esteems: Part of the part am I, which at the first was all, A part of darkness, which gave birth to light Proud light, who now his mother would enthrall, Contesting space and ancient rank with night. Yet he succeedeth not, for struggle as he will, To forms material he adhereth still; From them he streameth, them he maketh fair, And still the progress of his beams they check ; And so, I trust, when comes the final wreck, Light will, ere long, the doom of matter share. FAUST PARTI 293 FAUST Thy worthy avocation now I guess! Wholesale annihilation won't prevail, So thou'rt beginning on a smaller scale. MEPHISTOPHELES And, to say truth, as yet with small success. Oppos'd to naught, this clumsy world, The something it subsisteth still; Not yet is it to ruin hurl'd, Despite the efforts of my will. Tempests and earthquakes, fire and flood, I've tried; Yet land and ocean still unchang'd abide! And then of humankind and beasts, the accursed brood, Neither o'er them can I extend my sway. What countless myriads have I swept away! Yet ever circulates the fresh young blood. It is enough to drive me to despair ! As in the earth, in water, and in air, A thousand germs burst forth spontaneously; In moisture, drought, heat, cold, they still appear! Had I not flame selected as my sphere, Nothing apart had been reserved for me. FAUST So thou with thy cold devil's fist, Still clench 'd in malice impotent, Dost the creative power resist, The active, the beneficent! Henceforth some other task essay, Of Chaos thou the wondrous son! MEPHISTOPHELES We will consider what you say, And talk about it more anon! For this time have I leave to got FAUST Why thou shouldst ask, I cannot see. Since thee I now have learned to know, 294 THE GERMAN CLASSICS At thy good pleasure, visit me. Here is the window, here the door, The chimney, too, may serve thy need. " MEPHISTOPHELES I must confess, my stepping o'er Thy threshold a slight hindrance doth impede; The wizard-foot doth me retain. FAUST The pentagram thy peace doth mar! To me, thou son of hell, explain, How earnest thou in, if this thine exit bar? Could such a spirit aught ensnare! MEPHISTOPHELES Observe it well, it is not drawn with care ; One of the angles, that which points without, Is, as thou seest, not quite closed. FAUST Chance hath the matter happily dispos'd! So thou my captive art? No doubt! By accident thou thus art caught! MEPHISTOPHELES In sprang the dog, indeed, observing naught; Things now assume another shape, The devil's in the house and can't escape. FAUST Why through the window not withdraw? MEPHISTOPHELES For ghosts and for the devil 'tis a law, Where they stole in, there they must forth. We're free The first to choose ; as to the second, slaves are we. FAUST E'en hell hath its peculiar laws, I see! I'm glad of that! a pact may then be made, The which you gentlemen will surely keepT FAUST PART I 295 MEPHISTOPHELES Whate'er therein is promised thou shalt reap, No tittle shall remain unpaid. But such arrangements time require; We'll speak of them when next we meet; Most earnestly I now entreat, This once permission to retire. FAUST Another moment prithee here remain, Me with some happy word to pleasure. MEPHISTOPHELES Now let me go ! Ere long I'll come again ; Then thou may'st question at thy leisure. FAUST 'Twas not my purpose thee to lime; The snare hast entered of thine own free will: Let him who holds the devil, hold him still 1 So soon he'll catch him not a second time. MEPHISTOPHELES If it so please thee, I'm at thy command; Only on this condition, understand; That worthily thy leisure to beguile, I here may exercise my arts awhile. FAUST Thou'rt free to do so! Gladly I'll attend; But be thine art a pleasant one! MEPHISTOPHELES My friend, This hour enjoyment more intense Shall captivate each ravish 'd sense, Than thou could 'st compass in the bound Of the whole year's unvarying round; And what the dainty spirits sing, The lovely images they bring, 296 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Are no fantastic sorcery. Rich odors shall regale your smell, On choicest sweets your palate dwell, Your feelings thrill with ecstasy. No preparation do we need, Here we together are. Proceed. SPIRITS Hence overshadowing gloom, Vanish from sight! O'er us thine azure dome, Bend, beauteous light! Dark clouds that o'er us spread, Melt in thin air! Stars, your soft radiance shed, Tender and fair ! Girt with celestial might, Winging their airy flight, Spirits are thronging. Follows their forms of light Infinite longing! Flutter their vestures bright O'er field and grove! Where in their leafy bower Lovers the livelong hour Vow deathless love. Soft bloometh bud and bower! Bloometh the grove! Grapes from the spreading vine Crown the full measure; Fountains of foaming wine Gush from the pressure. Still where the currents wind, Gems brightly gleam ; Leaving the hills behind On rolls the stream; Now into ample seas, Permission Theodor Stroefer, Munich FAUST AND MEPHISTO ZEN-MAYU FAUST PAETI 297 Spreadeth the flood Laving the sunny leas, Mantled with wood. Rapture the feather 'd throng, Gaily careering, Sip as they float along; Sunward they're steering; On toward the isles of light Winging their way, That on the waters bright Dancingly play. Hark to the choral strain, Joyfully ringing! While on the grassy plain Dancers are springing; Climbing the steep hill's side, Skimming the glassy tide, Wander they there; Others on pinions wide Wing the blue air; All lifeward tending, upward still wending, Toward yonder stars that gleam, Far, far above; Stars from whose tender beam Rains blissful love. MEPHISTOPHELES Well done, my dainty spirits ! now he slumbers ! Ye have entranc'd him fairly with your numbers! This minstrelsy of yours I must repay. Thou art not yet the man to hold the devil fast ! With fairest shapes your spells around him cast, And plunge him in a sea of dreams ! But that this charm be rent, the threshold passed, Tooth of rat the way must clear. I need not conjure long it seems, One rustles hitherward, and soon my voice will hear. 298 THE GERMAN CLASSICS The master of the rats and mice, Of flies and frogs, of bugs and lice, Commands thy presence; without fear Come forth and gnaw the threshold here, "Where he with oil has smear 'd it. Thou Com'st hopping forth already! Now To work ! The point that holds me bound Is in the outer angle found. Another bite so now 'tis done Now, Faustus, till we meet again, dream on. FAUST (awaking) Am I once more deluded ! must I deem That thus the throng of spirits disappear? The devil's presence was it but a dream I Hath but a poodle scap'd and left me here? FAUST A knock? Come in! Who now would break my rest? MEPHISTOPHELES 'TisI! FAUST Come in! MEPHISTOPHELES Thrice be the words express 'd. FAUST Then I repeat, Come in! MEPHISTOPHELES 'Tis well, I hope that we shall soon agree! For now your fancies to expel, Here, as a youth of high degree, I come in gold-lac 'd scarlet vest, FAUST PART I 299 And stiff-silk mantle richly dress 'd, A cock's gay feather for a plume, A long and pointed rapier, too; And briefly I would counsel you To don at once the same costume, And, free from trammels, speed away ; That what life is you may essay. FAUST In every garb I needs must feel oppress 'd, My heart to earth's low cares a prey. Too old the trifler's part to play, Too young to live by no desire possess 'd. What can the world to me afford! Renounce! renounce! is still the word; This is the everlasting song In every ear that ceaseless rings, And which, alas, our whole life long, Hoarsely each passing moment sings. But to new horror I awake each mom, And I could weep hot tears, to see the sun Dawn on another day, whose round forlorn Accomplishes no wish of mine not one. Which still, with froward captiousness, impains E'en the presentiment of every joy, While low realities and paltry cares The spirit's fond imaginings destroy. Then must I too, when falls the veil of night, Stretch 'd on my pallet languish in despair. Appalling dreams my soul affright; No rest vouchsafed me even there. The god, who throned within my breast resides, Deep in my soul can stir the springs; With sovereign sway my energies he guides, He cannot move external things; And so existence is to me a weight, Death fondly I desire, and life I hate. 300 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES And yet, methinks, by most 'twill be confess'd That Death is never quite a welcome guest. FAUST Happy the man around whose brow he binds The bloodstain 'd wreath in conquest's dazzling hour; Or whom, excited by the dance, he finds Dissolv'd in bliss, in love's delicious bower! that before the lofty spirit's might, Enraptured, I had rendered up my soul ! MEPHISTOPHELES Yet did a certain man refrain one night Of its brown juice to drain the crystal bowl. FAUST To play the spy diverts you then? MEPHISTOPHELES I own, Though not omniscient, much to me is known. FAUST If o'er my soul the tone familiar, stealing, Drew me from harrowing thought's bewild'ring maze, Touching the ling 'ring chords of childlike feeling, With the sweet harmonies of happier days: So curse I all, around the soul that windeth Its magic and alluring spell, And with delusive flattery bindeth Its victim to this dreary cell! Curs'd before all things be the high opinion Wherewith the spirit girds itself around! Of shows delusive curs'd be the dominion, Within whose mocking sphere our sense is bound ! Accurs'd of dreams the treacherous wiles, The cheat of glory, deathless fame ! Accurs'd what each as property beguiles, Wife, child, slave, plough, whate 'er its name I FAUST -PARTI 3Q1 Accurs'd be mammon, when with treasure He doth to daring deeds incite: Or when to steep the soul in pleasure, He spreads the couch of soft delight ! Curs'd bo the grape's balsamic juice! Accurs'd love's dream, of joys the first! Aceurs'd be hope! aocurs'd be faith! And more than all, be patience curs'd! CHOBUS OF SPIRITS (invisible) Woe! woe! Thou hast destroy 'd The beautiful world With violent blow; 'Tis shiver 'd! 'tis shatter 'd! The fragments abroad by a demigod scatter 'd I Now we sweep The wrecks into nothingness! Fondly we weep The beauty that's gone! Thou, 'mongst the sons of earth, Lofty and mighty one, Build it once more! In thine own bosom the lost world restore I Now with unclouded sense Enter a new career; Songs shall salute thine ear, Ne'er heard before! MEPHISTOPHBLES My little ones these spirits be. Hark! with shrewd intelligence, How they recommend to thee Action, and the joys of sense! In the busy world to dwell, Fain they would allure thee hence: For within this lonely cell, Stagnate sap of life and sense. 302 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Forbear to trifle longer with thy grief, Which, vulture-like, consumes thee in this den. The worst society is some relief, Making thee feel thyself a man with men. Nathless, it is not meant, I trow, To thrust thee 'mid the vulgar throng. I to the upper ranks do not belong ; Yet if, by me companion'd, thou Thy steps through life forthwith wilt take, Upon the spot myself I'll make Thy comrade; Should it suit thy need, I am thy servant, am thy slave indeed! FAUST And how must I thy services repay? MEPHISTOPHELES Thereto thou lengthen 'd respite hast! FAUST No ! no I The devil is an egoist I know: And, for Heaven's sake, 'tis not his way Kindness to any one to show. Let the condition plainly be exprest! Such a domestic is a dangerous guest. MEPHISTOPHELES I'll pledge myself to be thy servant here, Still at thy back alert and prompt to be ; But when together yonder we appear, Then shalt thou do the same for me. FAUST But small concern I feel for yonder world; Hast thou this system into ruin hurl'd, Another may arise the void to fill. This earth the fountain whence my pleasures flow. FAUST PARTI 303 This sun doth daily shine upon my woe, And if this world I must forego, Let happen then, what can and will. I to this theme will close mine ears, If men hereafter hate and love, And if there be in yonder spheres A depth below or height above. MEPHISTOPHELES In this mood thou mayst venture it. But make The compact! I at once will undertake To charm thee with mine arts. I'll give thee more Than mortal eye hath e'er beheld before. FAUST What, sorry Devil, hast thou to bestow? Was ever mortal spirit, in its high endeavor, Fathom 'd by Being such as thou? Yet food thou hast which satisfieth never ; Hast ruddy gold, that still doth flow Like restless quicksilver away; A game thou hast, at which none win who play A girl who would, with amorous eyen, E 'en from my breast a neighbor snare, Lofty ambition's joy divine, That, meteor-like, dissolves in air. Show me the fruit that, ere 'tis pluck 'd, doth rot, And trees, whose verdure daily buds anew! MEPHISTOPHELES Such a commission scares me not; I can provide such treasures, it is true. But, my good friend, a season will come round When on what's good we may regale in peace. FAUST If e'er upon my couch, stretched at my ease, I'm found, Then may my life that instant cease ! 304 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Me canst thou cheat with glozing wile Till self-reproach away I cast, Me with joy's lure canst thou beguile; Let that day be for me the last! Be this our wager! MEPHISTOPHELES Settled! FAUST Sure and fast! When to the moment I shall say, ' * Linger awhile ! so fair thou art ! ' ' Then mayst thou fetter me straightway, Then to the abyss will I depart! Then may the solemn death-bell sound, Then from thy service thou art free, The index then may cease its round, And time be never more for me! MEPHISTOPHELES I shall remember: pause, ere 'tis too late. FAUST Thereto a perfect right hast thou. My strength I do not rashly overrate. Slave am I here, at any rate, If thine, or whose, it matters not, I trow. MEPHISTOPHELES At thine inaugural feast I will this day Attend, my duties to commence. But one thing! Accidents may happen, hence A line or two in writing grant, I pray. FAUST A writing, Pedant! dost demand from me? Man, and man's plighted word, are these unknown to theef Is't not enough, that by the word I gave, My doom for evermore is cast! FAUST PART I 305 Doth not the world in all its currents rave, And must a promise hold me fast? Yet fixed is this delusion in our heart; Who, of his own free will, therefrom would part! How blest within whose breast truth reigneth pure ! No sacrifice will he repent when made! A formal deed, with seal and signature, A spectre this from which all shrink afraid. The word its life resigneth in the pen, Leather and wax usurp the mastery then. Spirits of evil! what dost thou require! Brass, marble, parchment, paper, dost desire? Shall I with chisel, pen, or graver write? Thy choice is free ; to me 'tis all the same. MEPHISTOPHELES Wherefore thy passion so excite, And thus thine eloquence inflame? A scrap is for our compact good. Thou under-signest merely with a drop of blood. FAUST If this will satisfy thy mind, Thy whim I'll gratify, howe'er absurd. MEPHISTOPHELES Blood is a juice of very special kind. FAUST Be not afraid that I shall break my word I The scope of all my energy Is in exact accordance with my vow. Vainly I have aspired too high; I'm on a level but with such as thou; Me the great spirit scorn M, defied; Nature from me herself doth hide ; Rent is the web of thought; my mind Doth knowledge loathe of every kind. VOL. 1 20 306 THE GERMAN CLASSICS In depths of sensual pleasure drown 'd, Let us our fiery passions still! Enwrapp'd in magic's veil profound, Let wondrous charms our senses thrill! Plunge we in time's tempestuous flow, Stem we the rolling surge of chance! There may alternate weal and woe, Success and failure, as they can, Mingle and shift in changeful dance! Excitement is the sphere for man. MEPHISTOPHELES Nor goal, nor measure is prescrib'd to you, If you desire to taste of every thing, To snatch at joy while on the wing, May your career amuse and profit too! Only fall to and don't be over coy! FAUST Hearken! The end I aim at is not joy; I crave excitement, agonizing bliss, Enamor'd hatred, quickening vexation. Purg'd from the love of knowledge, my vocation, The scope of all my powers henceforth be this, To bare my breast to every pang, to know In my heart's core all human weal and woe, To grasp in thought the lofty and the deep, Men's various fortunes on my breast to heap, And thus to theirs dilate my individual mind, And share at length with them the shipwreck of mankind. MEPHISTOPHELES Oh, credit me, who still as ages roll, Have chew'd this bitter fare from year to year, No mortal, from the cradle to the bier, Digests the ancient leaven! Know, this Whole Doth for the Deity alone subsist! FAUST PART I 307 He in eternal brightness doth exist ; Us unto darkness he hath brought, and here, Where day and night alternate, is your sphere. FAUST But 'tis my will! MEPHISTOPHELES Well spoken, I admit! But one thing puzzles me, my friend ; Time's short, art long; methinks 'twere fit That you to friendly counsel should attend. A poet choose as your ally! Let him thought's wide dominion sweep, Each good and noble quality Upon your honored brow to heap; The lion's magnanimity, The fleetness of the hind, The fiery blood of Italy, The Northern's stedfast mind. Let him to you the mystery show To blend high aims and cunning low ; And while youth's passions are aflame To fall in love by rule and plan ! I fain would meet with such a man ; Would him Sir Microcosmus name. FAUST What then am I, if I aspire in vain The crown of our humanity to gain, Toward which my every sense doth strain? MEPHISTOPHELES Thou'rt after all just what thou art. Put on thy head a wig with countless locks, And to a cubit's height upraise thy socks, Still thou remainest ever, what thou art. 308 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST I feel it, I have heap 'd upon my brain The gather 'd treasure of man's thought in vain; And when at length from studious toil I rest, No power, new-born, springs up within my breast; A hair 's breadth is not added to my height ; I am no nearer to the infinite. MEPHISTOPHELES Good sir, these things you view indeed, Just as by other men they're view'd; We must more cleverly proceed, Before life's joys our grasp elude. The devil ! thou hast hands and feet, And head and heart are also thine; What I enjoy with relish sweet Is it on that account less mine? If for six stallions I can pay, Do I not own their strength and speed? A proper man I dash away, As their two dozen legs were mine indeed. Up then, from idle pondering free, And forth into the world with me ! I tell you what; your speculative churl Is like a beast which some ill spirit leads, On barren wilderness, in ceaseless whirl, While all around lie fair and verdant meads. FAUST But how shall we begin? MEPHISTOPHELES We will go hence with speed, A place of torment this indeed ! A precious life, thyself to bore, And some few youngsters evermore ! Leave that to neighbor Paunch! Withdraw? Why wilt thou plague thyself with thrashing straw? FAUST PARTI 309 The very best that thou dost know Thou dar'st not to the striplings show. One in the passage now doth wait! FAUST I'm in no mood to see him now. MEPHISTOPHELES Poor lad ! He must be tired, I trow; He must not go disconsolate. Hand me thy cap and gown; the mask Is for my purpose quite first rate. [He changes his dress.] Now leave it to my wit ! I ask But quarter of an hour; meanwhile equip, And make all ready for our pleasant trip ! [Exit FAUST.] MEPHISTOPHELES (in FAUST 's long gown) Mortal ! the loftiest attributes of men, Reason and Knowledge, only thus contemn; Still let the Prince of lies, without control, With shows, and mocking charms delude thy soul, I have thee unconditionally then! Fate hath endow 'd him with an ardent mind, Which unrestrain'd still presses on forever, And whose precipitate endeavor Earth's joys o'erleaping, leaveth them behind. Him will I drag through life's wild waste, Through scenes of vapid dulness, where at last Bewilder 'd, he shall falter, and stick fast; And, still to mock his greedy haste, Viands and drink shall float his craving lips beyond Vainly he'll seek refreshment, anguish-tost, And were he not the devil's by his bond, Yet must his soul infallibly be lost! 310 THE GERMAN CLASSICS A STUDENT enters. STUDENT But recently I've quitted home, Full of devotion am I come A man to know and hear, whose name With reverence is known to fame. MEPHISTOPHELES Your courtesy much flatters me ! A man like other men you see ; Pray have you yet applied elsewhere? STUDENT I would entreat your friendly care ! I've youthful blood and courage high; Of gold I bring a fair supply ; To let me go my mother was not fain ; But here I longed true knowledge to attain. MEPHISTOPHELES You've hit upon the very place. STUDENT And yet my steps I would retrace. These walls, this melancholy room, 'erpower me with a sense of gloom ; The space is narrow, nothing green, No friendly tree is to be seen: And in these halls, with benches rilled, distraught, Sight, hearing fail me, and the power of thought. MEPHISTOPHELES It all depends on habit. Thus at first The infant takes not kindly to the breast, But before long, its eager thirst Is fain to slake with hearty zest : Thus at the breasts of wisdom day by day With keener relish you'll your thirst allay. FAUST PART I 311 STUDENT Upon her neck I fain would hang with joy ; To reach it, say, what means must I employ? MEPHISTOPHELES Explain, ere further time we lose, What special faculty you choose? STUDENT Profoundly learned I would grow, What heaven contains would comprehend, O'er earth's wide realm my gaze extend, Nature and science I desire to know. MEPHISTOPHELES You are upon the proper track, I find; Take heed, let nothing dissipate your mind. STUDENT My heart and soul are in the chase ! Though, to be sure, I fain would seize, On pleasant summer holidays, A little liberty and careless ease. MEPHISTOPHELES Use well your time, so rapidly it flies ; Method will teach you time to win ; Hence, my young friend, I would advise, With college logic to begin! Then will your mind be so well braced, In Spanish boots so tightly laced, That on 'twill circumspectly creep, Thought's beaten track securely keep, Nor will it, igms-fatuus like, Into the path of error strike. Then many a day they'll teach you how The mind's spontaneous acts, till now As eating and as drinking free, Require a process ; one ! two ! three ! In truth the subtle web of thought 312 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Is like the weaver's fabric wrought: One treadle moves a thousand lines, Swift dart the shuttles to and fro, Unseen the threads together flow, A thousand knots one stroke combines. Then forward steps your sage to show, And prove to you, it must be so ; The first being so, and so the second, The third and fourth deduc'd we see; And if there were no first and second, Nor third nor fourth would ever be. This, scholars of all countries prize, Yet 'mong themselves no weavers rise. He who would know and treat of aught alive, Seeks first the living spirit thence to drive : Then are the lifeless fragments in his hand, There only fails, alas ! the spirit-band. This process, chemists name, in learned thesis, Mocking themselves, Naturae encheiresis. STUDENT Your words I cannot fully comprehend. MEPHISTOPHELES In a short time you will improve, my friend, When of scholastic forms you learn the use; And how by method all things to reduce. STUDENT So doth all this my brain confound, As if a mill-wheel there were turning round. MEPHISTOPHELES And next, before aught else you learn, You must witfc. zeal to metaphysics turn ! There see that you profoundly comprehend What doth the limit of man's brain transcend; For that which is or is not in the head A sounding phrase will serve you in good stead. FAUST PARTI 313 But before all strive this half year From one fix'd order ne'er to swerve! Five lectures daily you must hear ; The hour still punctually observe 1 Yourself with studious zeal prepare, And closely in your manual look, Hereby may you be quite aware That all he utters standeth in the book ; Yet write away without cessation, As at the Holy Ghost's dictation! STUDENT This, Sir, a second time you need not say I Your counsel I appreciate quite; What we possess in black and white We can in peace and comfort bear away. MEPHISTOPHELES A faculty I pray you name. STUDENT For jurisprudence some distaste I own. MEPHISTOPHELES To me this branch of science is well known, And hence I cannot your repugnance blame. Customs and laws in every place, Like a disease, and heir-loom dread, Still trail their curse from race to race, And furtively abroad they spread. To nonsense, reason's self they turn; Beneficence becomes a pest; Woe unto thee, that thou'rt a grandson born! As for the law born with us, unexpressed ; That law, alas, none careth to discern. STUDENT You deepen my dislike. The youth Whom you instruct, is blest in sooth ! To try theology I feel inclined. 314 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES I would not lead you willingly astray, But as regards this science, you will find So hard it is to shun the erring way, And so much hidden poison lies therein Which scarce can you discern from medicine. Here too it is the best, to listen but to one, And by the master's words to swear alone. To sum up all To words hold fast! Then the safe gate securely pass'd, You'll reach the fane of certainty at last. STUDENT But then some meaning must the words convey. MEPHISTOPHELES Right! But o'er-anxious thought you'll find of no avail; For there precisely where ideas fail, A word comes opportunely into play ; Most admirable weapons words are found, On words a system we securely ground, In words we can conveniently believe, Nor of a single jot can we a word bereave. STUDENT Your pardon for my importunity ; Yet once more must I trouble you: On medicine, I'll thank you to supply A pregnant utterance or two ! Three years ! how brief the appointed tide ! The field, heaven knows, is all too wide ! If but a friendly hint be thrown, Tis easier than to feel one's way. MEPHISTOPHELES (aside) I'm weary of the dry pedantic tone, And must again the genuine devil play. (Aloud) Of medicine the spirit's caught with ease, FAUST PART I 315 The great and little world you study through, That things may then their course pursue, As heaven may please. In vain abroad you range through science's ample space, Each man learns only that which learn he can; Who knows the moment to embrace, He is your proper man. In person you are tolerably made, Nor in assurance will you be deficient : Self-confidence acquire, be not afraid, Others will then esteem you a proficient. Learn chiefly with the sex to deal! Their thousand ahs and ohs, These the sage doctor knows, He only from one point can heal. Assume a decent tone of courteous ease, You have them then to humor as you please. First a diploma must belief infuse, That you in your profession take the lead: You then at once those easy freedoms use For which another many a year must plead; Learn how to feel with nice address The dainty wrist ; and how to press, With ardent, furtive glance, the slender waist, To feel how tightly it is laced. STUDENT There is some sense in that ! one sees the how and why. MEPHISTOPHELES Gray is, young friend, all theory : And green of life the golden tree. STUDENT I swear it seemeth like a dream to me. May I some future time repeat my visit, To hear on what your wisdom grounds your views? 316 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES Command my humble service when you choose. STUDENT Ere I retire, one boon I must solicit: Here is my album ; do not, Sir, deny This token of your favor ! MEPHISTOPHELES Willingly! [He writes and returns the book.] STUDENT (reads) EBITIS SICUT DEUS, SCIENTES BONUM ET MALUM [He reverently closes the book and retires.] MEPHISTOPHELES Let but this ancient proverb be your rule, My cousin follow still, the wily snake, And with your likeness to the gods, poor fool, Ere long be sure your poor sick heart will quake ! FAUST (enters) "Whither away? MEPHISTOPHELES *Tis thine our course to steer. The little world, and then the great we'll view. With what delight, what profit too, Thou 'It revel through thy gay career! FAUST Despite my length of beard I need The easy manners that insure success ; Th' attempt I fear can ne'er succeed; To mingle in the world I want address; I still have an embarrass 'd air, and then I feel myself so small with other men. MEPHISTOPHELES Time, my good friend, will all that's needful give; Be only self-possessed, and thou hast learn 'd to live. FAUST PARTI 317 FAUST But how are we to start, I pray! Steeds, servants, carriage, where are they? MEPHISTOPHELES We've but to spread this mantle wide, 'Twill serve whereon through air to ride ; No heavy baggage need you take, When we our bold excursion make. A little gas, which I will soon prepare, Lifts us from earth; aloft through air, Light-laden, we shall swiftly steer; I wish you joy of your new life-career. AUEEBACH'S CELLAR IN LEIPZIG A Drinking Party FBOSCH No drinking? Naught a laugh to raise? None of your gloomy looks, I pray ! You, who so bright were wont to blaze, Are dull as wetted straw today. BBANDEB Tis all your fault ; your part you do not bear, No beastliness, no folly. FBOSCH (pours a glass of wine over his head) There, You have them both ! BBANDEB You double beast ! FBOSCH 'Tis what you ask'd me for, at least! SIEBEL Whoever quarrels, turn him out! With open throat drink, roar, and shout. Hollo 1 Hollo! Ho! 318 THE GERMAN CLASSICS AL.TMAYEE Zounds, fellow, cease your deaf'ning cheers! Bring cotton-wool! He splits my ears. SEEBEL 'Tis when the roof rings back the tone, Then first the full power of the bass is known. FROSCH Right! out with him who takes offence! A! tara lara da! ALTMAYEB A! tara lara da! FEOSCH Our throats are tuned. Come, let's commence! (Sings) The holy Roman empire now, How holds it still together? BBANDEB An ugly song ! a song political ! A song offensive ! Thank God, every morn, To rule the Roman empire that you were not born I I bless my stars at least that mine is not Either a kaiser's or a chancellor's lot. Yet, 'among ourselves, should one still lord it o'er the rest; That we elect a pope I now suggest. Ye know what quality insures A man's success, his rise secures. FROSCH (sings) Bear, lady nightingale above, Ten thousand greetings to my love. SIEBEL No greetings to a sweetheart! No love-songs shall there be! FAUST PART I 319 FROSCH Love-greetings and love-kisses ! Thou shall not hinder me I (Sings) Undo the bolt ! in stilly night, Undo the bolt ! the lover wakes. Shut to the bolt ! when morning breaks. SIEBEL Ay, sing, sing on, praise her with all thy might ! My turn to laugh will come some day. Me hath she jilted once, you the same trick she'll play. ' Some gnome her lover be ! where cross-roads meet, With her to play the fool ; or old he-goat, From Blocksberg coming in swift gallop, bleat A good night to her from his hairy throat ! A proper lad of genuine flesh and blood, Is for the damsel far too good; The greeting she shall have from me, To smash her window-panes will be ! BRANDEB (striking on the table) Silence ! Attend ! to me give ear ! Confess, sirs, I know how to live : Some love-sick folk are sitting here ! Hence, 'tis but fit, their hearts to cheer, That I a good-night strain to them should give. Hark ! of the newest fashion is my song ! Strike boldly in the chorus, clear and strong ! (He sings) Once in a cellar li ved a rat, He feasted there on butter, Until his paunch became as fat As that of Doctor Luther. The cook laid poison for the guest, Then was his heart with pangs oppress 'd, As if his frame love wasted. i CHORUS (shouting) As if his frame love wasted. 320 THE GERMAN CLASSICS BBANDEB He ran around, he ran abroad, Of every puddle drinking. The house with rage he scratch 'd and gnaw'd, In vain, he fast was sinking; Full many an anguish 'd bound he gave, Nothing the hapless brute could save, As if his frame love wasted. CHORUS As if his frame love wasted. BBANDEB By torture driven, in open day, The kitchen he invaded, Convulsed upon the hearth he lay, With anguish sorely jaded; The poisoner laugh 'd; Ha! ha! quoth she, His life is ebbing fast, I see, As if his frame love wasted. CHORUS As if his frame love wasted. SIEBEL How the dull boors exulting shout ! Poison for the poor rats to strew A fine exploit it is no doubt. BBANDER They, as it seems, stand well with you ! ALTMAYEB Old bald-pate ! with the paunch profound ! The rat 's mishap hath tamed his nature ; For he his counterpart ha,th found Depicted in the swollen creature. FAUST PART I 321 FAUST AND MEPHISTOPHELES MEPHISTOPHELES I now must introduce to you Before aught else, this jovial crew, To show how lightly life may glide away; With the folk here each day's a holiday. With little wit and much content, Each on his own small round intent, Like sportive kitten with its tail; While no sick-headache they bewail, And while their host will credit give, Joyous and free from care they live. BBANDEB They're off a journey, that is clear, From their strange manners ; they have scarce been here An hour. FBOSCH You're right! Leipzig's the place for mel 'Tis quite a little Paris ; people there Acquire a certain easy, finish 'd air. SIEBEL What take you now these travelers to be? FBOSCH Let me alone! O'er a full glass you'll see, As easily I'll worm their secret out As draw an infant's tooth. I've not a doubt That my two gentlemen are nobly born ; They look dissatisfied and full of scorn. BBANDEB They are but mountebanks, I'll lay a bet! ALTMAYEB . Most like. Vou 1 21 322 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FROSCH Mark me, I'll screw it from them yet! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST ) These fellows would not scent the devil out, E 'en though he had them by the very throat ! FAUST Good-morrow, gentlemen! SIEBEL Thanks for your fair salute. [Aside, glancing at MEPHISTOPHELES.] How! goes the fellow on a halting foot? MEPHISTOPHELES Is it permitted here with you to sit? Then, though good wine is not forthcoming here, Good company at least our hearts will cheer. ALTMAYER A dainty gentleman, no doubt of it ! FROSCH You're doubtless recently from Eippach? Pray, Did you with Master Hans there chance to sup? MEPHISTOPHELES Today we pass 'd him, but we did not stop ! When last we met him he had much to say Touching his cousins, and to each he sent Full many a greeting and kind compliment. [With an inclination toward FROSCH.] ALTMAYER (aside to FROSCH) You have it there ! SIEBEL Faith ! he 's a knowing one ! FROSCH Have patience! I will show him up anon! FAUST PART I 323 MEPHISTOPHELES We heard erewhile, unless I'm wrong, Voices well trained in chorus pealing? Certes, most choicely here must song Ee-echo from this vaulted ceiling ! FEOSCH That you're an amateur one plainly seesl MEPHISTOPHELES Oh no, though strong the love, I cannot boast much skill. ALTMAYEB Give us a song ! MEPHISTOPHELES As many as you will. SIEBEL But be it a brand new one, if you please ! MEPHISTOPHELES But recently returned from Spain are we, The pleasant land of wine and minstrelsy. (Sings) A king there was once reigning, Who had a goodly flea FROSCH Hark! did you rightly catch the words! a flea! An odd sort of a guest he needs must be. MEPHISTOPHELES (sings) A king there was once reigning, Who had a goodly flea, Him loved he without feigning, As his own son were he ! His tailor then he summon 'd The tailor to him goes : Now measure me the youngster For jerkin and for hose ! 324 THE GERMAN CLASSICS BEANDEB Take proper heed, the tailor strictly charge, The nicest measurement to take, And as he loves his head, to make The hose quite smooth and not too large I MEPHISTOPHELES In satin and in velvet, Behold the younker dressed; Bedizen 'd o'er with ribbons, A cross upon his breast. Prime minister they made him; He wore a star of state ; And all his poor relations Were courtiers, rich and great. The gentlemen and ladies At court were sore distressed ; The queen and all her maidens Were bitten by the pest, And yet they dared not scratch them, Or chase the fleas away. If we are bit, we catch them, And crack without delay. CHOEUS (shouting) If we are bit, etc. FEOSCH Bravo ! That 's the song for me ! SIEBEL Such be the fate of every flea ! BBANDEB With clever finger catch and Mil ! ALTMAYEB Hurrah for wine and freedom still I FAUST PAET I 325 MEPHISTOPHELES Were but your wine a trifle better, friend, A glass to freedom I would gladly drain. SIEBEL You'd better not repeat those words again 1 MEPHISTOPHELES I am afraid the landlord to offend; Else freely would I treat each worthy guest From our own cellar to the very best. SIEBEL Out with it then! Your doings I'll defend. FBOSCH Give a good glass, and straight we '11 praise you, one and all. Only let not your samples be too small ; For if my judgment you desire, Certes, an ample mouthful I require. ALTMAYER I guess, they're from the Ehenish land. MEPHISTOPHELES Fetch me a gimlet here ! BBANDEB Say, what therewith to bore! You cannot have the wine-casks at the door? ALTMAYEB Our landlord's tool-basket behind doth yonder stand. MEPHISTOPHELES (takes the gimlet) (To FBOSCH) Now only say! what liquor will you take? FBOSCH How mean you that? Have you of every sort? MEPHISTOPHELES Each may his own selection make. 326 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ALTMAYEK (to FROSCH) Ha ! Ha ! You lick your lips already at the thought. FEOSCH Good, if I have my choice, the Rhenish I propose; For still the fairest gifts the fatherland bestows. MEPHISTOPHELES (boring a hole in the edge of the table opposite to where FEOSCH is sitting) Get me a little wax and make some stoppers quick ! ALTMAYEE Why, this is nothing but a juggler's trick! MEPHISTOPHELES (to And you? BBANDEB Champagne's the wine for me; Right brisk, and sparkling let it be ! [MEPHISTOPHELES bores, one of the party has in the meantime prepared the wax-stoppers and stopped the holes.] BBANDEB Wtiat foreign is one always can't decline, What's good is often scatter 'd far apart. The French your genuine German hates with all his heart, Yet has a relish for their wine. SEEBEL (as MEPHISTOPHELES approaches him) I like not acid wine, I must allow, Give me a glass of genuine sweet ! MEPHISTOPHELES (bores) Tokay Shall, if you wish it, flow without delay. ALTMAYEB Come ! look me in the face ! no fooling now I You are but making fun of us, I trow. FAUST PART I 327 MEPHISTOPHELES Ah ! ah ! that would indeed be making free With such distinguished guests. Come, no delay 5 What liquor can I serve you with, I pray! ALTMAYEB Only be quick, it matters not to me. [After the holes are all bored and stopped.] MEPHISTOPHELES (with strange gestures) Grapes the vine-stock bears, Horns the buck-goat wears ! Wine is sap, the vine is wood, The wooden board yields wine as good. With a deeper glance and true The mysteries of nature view! Have faith and here 's a miracle 1 Your stoppers draw and drink your fill ! ALL, (as they draw the stoppers and the wine chosen by each runs into his glass) Oh beauteous spring, which flows so far ! MEPHISTOPHELES Spill not a single drop, of this beware ! [They drink repeatedly.] ATT, (sing) Happy as cannibals are we, Or as five hundred swine. MEPHISTOPHELES They're in their glory, mark their elevation! PAUST Let's hence, nor here our stay prolong. MEPHISTOPHELES Attend, of brutishness ere long You'll see a glorious revelation. SIEBEL (drinks carelessly; the wine is spilt upon the ground, and turns to flame) Hslp ! fire ! help ! Hell is burning ! 328 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES (addressing the flames) Stop, Kind element, be still, I say! (To the Company) Of purgatorial fire as yet 'tis but a drop. SIEBEL What means the knave! For this you'll dearly pay! Us, it appears, you do not know. FROSCH Such tricks a second time he 'd better show ! ALTMAYEB Methinks 'twere well we pack 'd him quietly away. SIEBEL What, sir ! with us your hocus-pocus play ! MEPHISTOPHELES Silence, old wine-cask! SIEBEL How! add insult, too! Vile broomstick! BBANDEB Hold ! or blows shall rain on yon ! ALTMAYEB (draws a stopper out of the table; fire springs out against him) I burn! I burn! SIEBEL "Pis sorcery, I vow ! Strike home ! The fellow is fair game, I trow ! [They draw their knives and attack MEPHISTOPHELES.] MEPHISTOPHELES (with solemn gestures) Visionary scenes appear! Words delusive cheat the ear! Be ye there, and be ye here ! [They stand amazed and gaze at one another.] FAUST PART I 329 ALTMAYEE Where am I? What a beauteous land! PBOSCH Vineyards! unless my sight deceives? SIEBEL And clust'ring grapes too, close at hand! BRANDEB And underneath the spreading leaves, What stems there be ! What grapes I see ! [He seizes SIEBEL by the nose. The others recipro- cally do the same, and raise their knives.] MEPHISTOPHELES (ttS above) Delusion, from their eyes the bandage take! Note how the devil loves a jest to break I [He disappears with FATJST; the fellows draw back from one another.] SIEBEL What was it? ALTMAYEB How? FBOSCH Was that your nose? BBANDER (to SlEBEL) And look, my hand doth thine inclose ! ALTMAYEB I felt a shock, it went through every limb ! A chair! I'm fainting! All things swim! FBOSCH Say! What has happened? What's it all about? SIEBEL Where is the fellow? Could I scent him out, His body from his soul I'd soon divide! 330 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ALTMAYEK With my own eyes, upon a cask astride, Forth through the cellar-door I saw him ride Heavy as lead my feet are growing. [Turning to the table.] I wonder is the wine still flowing ! SIEBEL 'Twas all delusion, cheat and lie. FROSCH Twas wine I drank, most certainly. BBANDEB But with the grapes how was it, pray? ALTMAYEB That none may miracles believe, who now will say? WITCHES' KITCHEN A large caldron hangs over the fire on a low hearth; various figures appear in the vapor rising from it. A FEMALE MONKEY sits beside the caldron to skim it, and watch that it does not boil over. The MALE MONKEY with the young ones is seated near, warming himself. The walls and ceiling are adorned with the strangest articles of witch- furniture. FAUST, MEPHISTOPHELES FAUST This senseless, juggling witchcraft I detest I Dost promise that in this foul nest Of madness I shall be restored? Must I seek counsel from an ancient dame ? And can she, by these rites abhorred, Take thirty winters from my frame ? Woe 's me, if thou naught better canst suggest I Hope has already fled my breast. Has neither nature nor a noble mind A balsam yet devis'd of any kind? FAUST PART I 331 MEPHISTOPHELES My friend, you now speak sensibly. In truth, Nature a method giveth to renew thy youth: But in another book the lesson's writ; It forms a curious chapter, I admit. FAUST I fain would know it. MEPHISTOPHELES Good! A remedy Without physician, gold, or sorcery: Away forthwith, and to the fields repair; Begin to delve, to cultivate the ground ; Thy senses and thyself confine Within the very narrowest round ; Support thyself upon the simplest fare ; Live like a very brute the brutes among; Neither esteem it robbery The acre thou dost reap, thyself to dung. This the best method, credit me, Again at eighty to grow hale and young. FAUST I am not used to it, nor can myself degrade So far, as in my hand to take the spade. This narrow life would suit me not at all. MEPHISTOPHELES Then we the witch must summon after alL FAUST Will none but this old beldame do? Canst not thyself the potion brew? MEPHISTOPHELES A pretty play our leisure to beguile! A thousand bridges I could build meanwhile. Not science only and consummate art Patience must also bear her part. 332 THE GERMAN CLASSICS A quiet spirit worketh whole years long ; Time only makes the subtle ferment strong. And all things that belong thereto, Are wondrous and exceeding rare ! The devil taught her, it is true ; But yet the draught the devil can't prepare. [Perceiving the beasts.] Look yonder, what a dainty pair! Here is the maid ! the knave is there ! (To the beasts) It seems your dame is not at home? THE MONKEYS Gone to carouse, Out of the house, Thro* the chimney and away! MEPHISTOPHELES How long is it her wont to roam? THE MONKEYS While we can warm our paws she '11 stay. MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST ) What think you of the charming creatures? FAUST 1 loathe alike their form and features 1 MEPHISTOPHELES Nay, such discourse, be it confessed, Is just the thing that pleases me the best. (To the MONKEYS) Tell me, ye whelps, accursed crew! What stir ye in the broth about ? MONKEYS Coarse beggar's gruel here we stew. MEPHISTOPHELES Of customers you'll have a rout. FAUST PART I 333 THE HE-MONKEY (approaching and fawning on MEPHISTOPHELES ) Quick ! quick ! throw the dice, Make me rich in a trice, Oh give me the prize! Alas, for myself, Had I plenty of pelf, I then should be wise. MEPHISTOPHELES How blest the ape would think himself, if he Could only put into the lottery! [In the meantime the young MONKEYS have been playing with a large globe, which they roll forward.] THE HE-MONKEY The world behold; Unceasingly roll'd, It riseth and falleth ever; It ringeth like glass! How brittle, alas! 'Tis hollow, and resteth never. How bright the sphere, Still brighter here ! Now living am I ! Dear son, beware! Nor venture there! Thou too must die! It is of clay; 'Twill crumble away; There fragments lie. MEPHISTOPHELES Of what use is the sieve? THE HE-MONKEY (taking it down) The sieve would show, If thou wert a thief or no? 334 THE GERMAN CLASSICS [Re runs to the SHE-MONKEY, and makes her look through it.] Look through the sieve! Dost know him the thief, And dar'st thou not call him so? MEPHISTOPHELES (approaching the fire) And then this pot? THE MONKEYS The half-witted sot! He knows not the pot! He knows not the kettle! MEPHISTOPHELES Unmannerly beast! Be civil at least! THE HE-MONKEY Take the whisk and sit down in the settle! [He makes MEPHISTOPHELES sit down.] FAUST (who all this time has been standing before a looking- glass, now approaching, and now retiring from it) What do I see? what form, whose charms transcend The loveliness of earth, is mirror 'd here! O Love, to waft me to her sphere, To me the swiftest of thy pinions lend! Alas! If I remain not rooted to this place, If to approach more near I'm fondly lur'd, Her image fades, in veiling mist obscur'd! Model of beauty both in form and face ! Is't possible? Hath woman charms so rare? In this recumbent form, supremely fair, The essence must I see of heavenly grace? Can aught so exquisite on earth be found? FAUST PART I 335 MEPHISTOPHELES The six days' labor of a god, my friend, Who doth himself cry bravo, at the end, By something clever doubtless should be crown 'd. For this time gaze your fill, and when you please Just such a prize for you I can provide; How blest is he to whom kind fate decrees, To take her to his home, a lovely bride ! [FAUST continues to gaze into the mirror. MEPHIS- TOPHELES stretching himself on the settle and play- ing with the whisk, continues to speak.] Here sit I, like a king upon his throne ; My sceptre this; the crown I want alone. THE MONKEYS (who have hitherto been making all sorts of strange gestures, bring MEPHISTOPHELES a crown, with loud cries) Oh, be so good, With sweat and with blood The crown to lime I [They handle the crown awkwardly and break it in two pieces, with which they skip about.] 'Twas fate's decree! We speak and see ! We hear and rhyme. FAUST (before the mirror) Woe's me! well-nigh distraught I feel! MEPHISTOPHELES (pointing to the beasts) And even my own head almost begins to reel. THE MONKEYS If good luck attend, If fitly things blend, Our jargon with thought And with reason is fraught! 336 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST (as above) A flame is kindled in my breast! Let us begone ! nor linger here ! MEPHISTOPHELES (in the same position) It now at least must be confessed, That poets sometimes are sincere. [The caldron which the SHE-MONKEY has neglected begins to boil over; a great flame arises, which streams up the chimney. The WITCH comes down the chimney with horrible cries.} THE WITCH Ough! ough! ough! ough! Accursed brute! accursed sow I The caldron dost neglect, for shame ! Accursed brute to scorch the dame ! (Perceiving FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES.) Whom have we here I Who's sneaking here? Whence are ye come? With what desire? The plague of fire Your bones consume! [She dips the skimming-ladle into the caldron and throws flames at FAUST, MEPHISTOPHELES, and the MONKEYS. The MONKEYS whimper.] MEPHISTOPHELES (twirling the whisk which he holds in his hand, and striking among the glasses and pots) Dash ! Smash 1 There lies the glass! There lies the slime! 'Tis but a jest; I but keep time, Thou hellish pest, To thine own chime! [While the WITCH steps back in rage and astonishment.] Dost know me ! Skeleton ! Vile scarecrow, thou ! FAUST PART I 337 Thy lord and master dost thou know? What holds me, that I deal not now Thee and thine apes a stunning blow? No more respect to my red vest dost pay? Does my cock's feather no allegiance claim? Have I my visage masked today? Must I be forced myself to name? THE WITCH Master, forgive this rude salute! But I perceive no cloven foot. And your two ravens, where are they? MEPHISTOPHELES This once I must admit your plea; For truly I must own that we Each other have not seen for many a day. The culture, too, that shapes the world, at last Hath e 'en the devil in its sphere embraced ; The northern phantom from the scene hath pass 'd ; Tail, talons, horns, are nowhere to be traced! As for the foot, with which I can't dispense, 'Twould injure me in company, and hence, Like many a youthful cavalier, False calves I now have worn for many a year. THE WITCH (dancing) I am beside myself with joy, To see once more the gallant Satan here! MEPHISTOPHELES Woman, no more that name employ! THE WITCH But why? what mischief hath it done? VOL. 1 22 338 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES To fable-books it now doth appertain ; But people from the change have nothing won. Bid of the evil one, the evil ones remain. Lord Baron call thou me, so is the matter good; Of other cavaliers the mien I wear. Dost make no question of my gentle blood ; See here, this is the scutcheon that I bear ! [He makes an unseemly gesture.] THE WITCH (laughing immoderately) Ha! Ha! Just like yourself! You are, I ween, The same mad wag that you have ever been! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST) My friend, learn this to understand, I pray! To deal with witches this is still the way. THE WITCH Now tell me, gentlemen, what you desire? MEPHISTOPHELES Of your known juice a goblet we require. But for the very oldest let me ask; Double its strength with years doth grow. THE WITCH Most willingly! And here I have a flask, From which I've sipp'd myself ere now; What's more, it doth no longer stink; To you a glass I joyfully will give. (Aside.) If unprepar'd, however, this man drink, He hath not, as you know, an hour to live. MEPHISTOPHELES He's my good friend, with whom 'twill prosper well; I grudge him not the choicest of thy store. Now draw thy circle, speak thy spell, And straight a bumper for him pour! FAUST PART I 339 [The WITCH, with extraordinary gestures, describes a circle, and places strange things ivithin it. The glasses meanwhile begin to ring, and the caldron to sound and make music. Lastly, she brings a great book; places the MONKEYS in the circle to serve her as a desk, and to hold the torches. She beckons FAUST to approach.] FAUST (to MEPHISTOPHELES) Tell me, to what doth all this tend? Where will these frantic gestures end? This loathsome cheat, this senseless stuff I've known and hated long enough. MEPHISTOPHELES Mere mummery, a laugh to raise! Pray don't be so fastidious! 342 rERMAN CLASSICS BEET (MABQARET passing by). FAUST I thus make free rm and company? MAF.GARET . am not fair/ Cw escort home repair. [She disengages herself and exit.] FAUST ! This girl is fair indeed! ike hers can I recall. hath, and modest heed, and sharp withal. t, her rosy lips, irth of tiMMfflfrWr eclipse! r downward glance in passing by, p in my heart is stamp 'd for aye; / curt and sharp her answer too, To ecstasy the feeling gr [MEPHISTOPHn FAUST 1 must win for me! Dost hear? MEPHISTOPHELEB sed. What! She! here, '1 free; From tfafy /xfc&ur. For she there; O'er an ontrol! FAUST PART I 343 FAUST She's past fourteen. MEPHISTOPHELES You really talk Like any gay Lothario, Who every floweret from its stalk Would pluck, and deems nor grace, nor truth, Secure against his arts, forsooth! This ne'er the less won't always do. FAUST Sir Moralizer, prithee, pause; Nor plague me with your tiresome laws I To cut the matter short, my friend, She must this very night be mine, And if to help me you decline, Midnight shall see our compact end. MEPHISTOPHELES What may occur just bear in mind! A fortnight's space, at least, I need, A fit occasion but to find. FAUST With but seven hours I could succeed; Nor should I want the devil's wile, So young a creature to beguile. MEPHISTOPHELES Like any Frenchman now you speak, But do not fret, I pray; why seek To hurry to enjoyment straight? The pleasure is not half so great, As when at first, around, above, With all the fooleries of love, The puppet you can knead and mold As in Italian story oft is told. FAUST No such incentives do I need. 344 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES But now, without offence or jest ! You cannot quickly, I protest, In winning this sweet child succeed. By storm we cannot take the fort, To stratagem we must resort. FAUST Conduct me to her place of restl Some token of the angel bring! A kerchief from her snowy breast, A garter bring me any thing ! MEPHISTOPHELES That I my anxious zeal may prove, Your pangs to soothe and aid your love, A single moment will we not delay, Will lead you to her room this very day. FAUST And shall I see her? Have her? MEPHISTOPHELES No! She to a neighbor's house will go; But in her atmosphere alone The tedious hours meanwhile you may employ In blissful dreams of future joy. FAUST Can we go now? MEPHISTOPHELES Tis yet too soon. FAUST Some present for my love procure! [Exit.] MEPHISTOPHELES Presents so soon ! 'tis well ! success is sure I Full many a goodly place I know, And treasures buried long ago; I must a bit o'erlook them now. [Exit.] FAUST PART I 345 EVENING. A SMALL AND NEAT ROOM MARGARET (braiding and binding up her hair) I would give something now to know Who yonder gentleman could be! He had a gallant air, I trow, And doubtless was of high degree : That written on his brow was seen Nor else would he so bold have been. [Exit.] MEPHISTOPHELES Come in! tread softly! be discreet! FAUST (after a pause) Begone and leave me, I entreat! MEPHISTOPHELES (looking round) Not every maiden is so neat. [Exit.] FAUST (gazing round) Welcome sweet twilight, calm and blest, That in this hallow 'd precinct reigns! Fond yearning love, inspire my breast, Feeding on hope 's sweet dew thy blissful pains I What stillness here environs me! Content and order brood around. What fulness in this poverty! In this small cell what bliss profound! [He throws himself on the leather arm-chair beside the bed.] Receive me thou, who hast in thine embrace, Welcom'd in joy and grief the ages flown! How oft the children of a by-gone race Have cluster 'd round this patriarchal throne! Haply she, also, whom I hold so dear, For Christmas gift, with grateful joy possess 'd, Hath with the full round cheek of childhood, here, Her grandsire's withered hand devoutly press 'd. Maiden! I feel thy spirit haunt the place, 346 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Breathing of order and abounding grace. As with a mother's voice it prompteth thee The pure white cover o'er the board to spread, To stew the crisping sand beneath thy tread. Dear hand! so godlike in its ministry! The hut becomes a paradise through thee! And here [He raises the bed-curtain.] How thrills my pulse with strange delight! Here could I linger hours untold; Thou, Nature, didst in vision bright, The embryo angel here unfold. Here lay the child, her bosom warm With life; while steeped in slumber's dew, To perfect grace, her godlike form, With pure and hallow 'd weavings grew! And thou! ah here what seekest thou? How quails mine inmost being now ! What wouldst thou here? what makes thy heart so sore? Unhappy Faust ! I know thee now no more. Do I a magic atmosphere inhale? Erewhile, my passion would not brook delay! Now in a pure love-dream I melt away. Are we the sport of every passing gale! Should she return and enter now, How wouldst thou rue thy guilty flame ! Proud vaunter thou wouldst hide thy brow And at her feet sink down with shame. MEPHISTOPHELES Quick! quick! below I see her there. FAUST Away! I will return no more! MEPHISTOPHELES Here is a casket, with a store Of jewels, which I got elsewhere. FAUST PAKT I 347 Just lay it in the press ; make haste ! I swear to you, 'twill turn her brain; Therein some trifles I have placed, Wherewith another to obtain. But child is child, and play is play. FAUST I know not shall I! MEPHISTOPHELES Do you ask? Perchance you would retain the treasure 1 If such your wish, why then, I say, Henceforth absolve me from my task, Nor longer waste your hours of leisure. I trust you're not by avarice led! I rub my hands, I scratch my head, [He places the casket in the press and closes the lock.] Now quick! Away! That soon the sweet young creature may The wish and purpose of your heart obey; Yet stand you there As would you to the lecture-room repair, As if before you stood, Arrayed in flesh and blood, Physics and metaphysics weird and gray! Away! [Exeunt.] MARGARET (with a lamp) Here 'tis so close, so sultry now, [She opens the window.] Yet out of doors 'tis not so warm. I feel so strange, I know not how I wish my mother would come home. Through me there runs a shuddering I'm but a foolish timid thing! [While undressing herself she begins to sing.] There was a king in Thule, True even to the grave; 348 THE GERMAN CLASSICS To whom his dying mistress A golden beaker gave. At every feast he drained it, Naught was to him so dear, And often as he drained it, Gush'd from his eyes the tear. When death came, unrepining His cities o'er he told; All to his heir resigning, Except his cup of gold. With many a knightly vassal At a royal feast sat he, In yon proud hall ancestral, In his castle o'er the sea. Up stood the jovial monarch, And quaff 'd his last life's glow, Then hurled the hallow 'd goblet Into the flood below. He saw it splashing, drinking, And plunging in the sea; His eyes meanwhile were sinking, And never again drank he. [She opens the press to put away her clothes, and per- ceives the casket.] How comes this lovely casket here? The press I locked, of that I'm confident. 'Tis very wonderful! What's in it I can't guess; Perhaps 'twas brought by some one in distress, And left in pledge for loan my mother lent. Here by a ribbon hangs a little key! I have a mind to open it and see! Heavens ! only look ! what have we here ! In all my days ne 'er saw I such a sight ! Jewels! which any noble dame might wear, For some high pageant richly dight FAUST PART I 349 This chain how would it look on me! These splendid gems, whose may they be? [She puts them on and steps before the glass.] Were but the earrings only mine ! Thus one has quite another air. What boots it to be young and fair! It doubtless may be very fine; But then, alas, none cares for you, And praise sounds half like pity too. Gold all doth lure, Gold doth secure All things. Alas, we poor! PROMENADE FAUST walking thoughtfully up and down. To him MEPHISTOPHELES. MEPHISTOPHELES By all rejected love ! By hellish fire I curse, Would I knew aught to make my imprecation worse ! FAUST What aileth thee? what chafes thee now so sore? A face like that I never saw before! MEPHISTOPHELES I'd yield me to the devil instantly, Did it not happen that myself am he! FAUST There must be some disorder in thy wit! To rave thus like a madman, is it fit? MEPHISTOPHELES Think! only think! The gems for Gretchen brought, Them hath a priest now made his own! A glimpse of them the mother caught, And 'gan with secret fear to groan. The woman's scent is keen enough; Doth ever in the prayer-book snuff; 350 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Smells every article to ascertain Whether the thing is holy or profane, And scented in the jewels rare, That there was not much blessing there. " My child," she cries, " ill-gotten good Ensnares the soul, consumes the blood; With them we'll deck our Lady shrine, She'll cheer our souls with bread divine! " At this poor Gretchen 'gan to pout; 'Tis a gift-horse, at least, she thought, And sure, he godless cannot be, Who brought them here so cleverly. Straight for a priest the mother sent, Who, when he understood the jest, With what he saw was well content. " This shows a pious mind! " Quoth he: 11 Self -conquest is true victory. The Church hath a good stomach, she, with zest, Whole countries hath swallow 'd down, And never yet a surfeit known. The Church alone, be it confessed, Daughters, can ill-got wealth digest." FAUST It is a general custom, too, Practised alike by king and jew. MEPHISTOPHELES With that, clasp, chain, and ring, he swept As they were mushrooms; and the casket, Without one word of thanks, he kept, As if of nuts it were a basket. Promised reward in heaven, then forth he hied And greatly they were edified. FAUST And Gretchen 1 FAUST PART I 351 MEPHISTOPHELES In unquiet mood Knows neither what she would or should; The trinkets night and day thinks o'er; On him who brought them, dwells still more. FAUST The darling's sorrow grieves me, bring Another set without delay! The first, methinks, was no great thing. MEPHISTOPHELES All's to my gentleman child's play! FAUST Plan all things to achieve my end! Engage the attention of her friend! No milk-and-water devil be, And bring fresh jewels instantly! MEPHISTOPHELES Ay, sir! Most gladly I'll obey. [FAUST exit.] MEPHISTOPHELES Your doting love-sick fool, with ease, Merely his lady-love to please, Sun, moon, and stars in sport would puff away. [Exit.] THE NEIGHBOR'S HOUSE MABTHA (alone) God pardon my dear husband, he Doth not in truth act well by me ! Forth in the world abroad to roam, And leave me on the straw at home. And yet his will I ne'er did thwart, God knows, I lov'd him from my heart. [She weeps.] Perchance he's dead! oh wretched state! Had I but a certificate! 352 THE GERMAN CLASSICS (MARGARET comes.) MARGARET Dame Martha! MARTHA Gretchen ? MARGARET Only think! My knees beneath me well-nigh sink ! Within my press I've found today Another case, of ebony. And things magnificent they are, More costly than the first, by far. MARTHA You must not name it to your mother! It would to shrift, just like the other. MARGARET Nay look at them! now only see! MARTHA (dresses her up) Thou happy creature ! MARGARET Woe is me ! Them in the street I cannot wear, Or in the church, or anywhere. MARTHA Come often over here to me, The gems put on quite privately; And then before the mirror walk an hour or so, Thus we shall have our pleasure too. Then suitable occasions we must seize, As at a feast, to show them by degrees: A chain at first, pearl ear-drops then, your mother Won't see them, or we'll coin some tale or other. MARGARET But, who, I wonder, could the caskets bring! I fear there's something wrong about the thing! [A knock.] Good heavens! can that my mother be? FAUST PARTI 353 MARTHA (peering through the blind) 'Tis a strange gentleman, I see. Come in! [MEPHISTOPHELES enters.] MEPHISTOPHELES I've ventur'd to intrude today. Ladies, excuse the liberty, I pray. [He steps back respectfully before MARGARET.] After dame Martha Schwerdtlein I inquire! MARTHA Tis I. Pray what have you to say to met MEPHISTOPHELES (aside to her) I know you now, and therefore will retire; At present you've distinguished company. Pardon the freedom, Madam, with your leave, I will make free to call again at eve. MARTHA (aloud) Why, child, of all strange notions, he For some grand lady taketh thee! MARGARET I am, in truth, of humble blood The gentleman is far too good Nor gems nor trinkets are my own. MEPHISTOPHELES Oh 'tis not the mere ornaments alone; Her glance and mien far more betray. Rejoiced I am that I may stay. MARTHA Your business, Sir? I long to know MEPHISTOPHELES Would I could happier tidings show! I trust mine errand you'll not let me rue; Your husband's dead, and greeteth you. VOL. 1 23 354 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MARTHA Is dead? True heart! Oh misery! My husband dead! Oh, I shall die! MARGARET Alas! good Martha! don't despair! MEPHISTOPHELES Now listen to the sad affair ! MARGARET I for this cause should fear to love. The loss my certain death would prove. MEPHISTOPHELES Joy still must sorrow, sorrow joy attend. MARTHA Proceed, and tell the story of his end ! MEPHISTOPHELES At Padua, in St. Anthony's, In holy ground his body lies ; Quiet and cool his place of rest, With pious ceremonials blest. MARTHA And had you naught besides to bring? MEPHISTOPHELES Oh yes ! one grave and solemn prayer ; Let them for him three hundred masses sing ! But in my pockets, I have nothing there. MARTHA No trinket! no love-token did he send! What every journeyman safe in his pouch will hoard There for remembrance fondly stored, And rather hungers, rather begs than spend! MEPHISTOPHELES Madam, in truth, it grieves me sore, But he his gold not lavishly hath spent. FAUST PART I 355 His failings too he deeply did repent, Ay! and his evil plight bewail 'd still more. MARGARET Alas ! That men should thus be doomed to woe I I for his soul will many a requiem pray. MEPHISTOPHELES A husband you deserve this very day ; A child so worthy to be loved. MARGARET Ah no, That time hath not yet come for me. MEPHISTOPHELES If not a spouse, a gallant let it be. Among heaven's choicest gifts, I place, So sweet a darling to embrace. MARGARET Our land doth no such usage know. MEPHISTOPHELES Usage or not, it happens so. MARTHA Go on,, I pray ! MEPHISTOPHELES I stood by his bedside. Something less foul it was than dung; Twas straw half rotten ; yet, he as a Christian died. And sorely hath remorse his conscience wrung. ' * Wretch that I was, ' ' quoth he, with parting breath, " So to forsake my business and my wife! Ah! the remembrance is my death. Could I but have her pardon in this life ! ' ' MARTHA (weeping). Dear soul ! I Ve long forgiven him, indeed ! MEPHISTOPHELES " Though she, God knows, was more to blame than I." 356 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MARTHA He lied ! What, on the brink of death to lie ! MEPHISTOPHELES If I am skill 'd the countenance to read, He doubtless fabled as he parted hence. ' * No time had I to gape, or take my ease, ' ' he said, ' ' First to get children, and then get them bread ; And bread, too, in the very widest sense ; Nor could I eat in peace even my proper share." MARTHA What, all my truth, my love forgotten quite I My weary drudgery by day and night ! MEPHISTOPHELES Not so ! He thought of you with tender care. Quoth he : * ' Heaven knows how fervently I prayed, For wife and children when from Malta bound; The prayer hath heaven with favor crowned ; We took a Turkish vessel which conveyed Rich store of treasure for the Sultan's court; Its own reward our gallant action brought ; The captur'd prize was shared among the crew, And of the treasure I received my due." MARTHA How? Where? The treasure hath he buried, pray? MEPHISTOPHELES Where the four winds have blown it, who can say? In Naples as he stroll 'd, a stranger there, A comely maid took pity on my friend : And gave such tokens of her love and care, That he retained them to his blessed end. MARTHA Scoundrel! to rob his children of their bread! And all this misery, this bitter need, Could not his course of recklessness impede ! FAUST PAET I 357 MEPHISTOPHELES Well, he hath paid the forfeit, and is dead. Now were I in your place, my counsel hear ; My weeds I'd wear for one chaste year, And for another lover meanwhile would look out. MAKTHA Alas, I might search far and near, Not quickly should I find another like my first! There could not be a fonder fool than mine, Only he loved too well abroad to roam ; Loved foreign women too, and foreign wine, And loved besides the dice accurs'd. MEPHISTOPHELES All had gone swimmingly, no doubt, Had he but given you at home, On his side, just as wide a range. Upon such terms, to you I swear, Myself with you would gladly rings exchange! MABTHA The gentleman is surely pleas 'd to jest! MEPHISTOPHELES Now to be off in time, were best! She'd make the very devil marry her. (To MABGABET) How fares it with your heart? MABGABET How mean you, Sir? MEPHISTOPHELES (aside) The sweet young innocent! (aloud) Ladies, farewell ! ^ MABGABET Farewell ! 358 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MABTHA But ere you leave us, quickly tell! I from a witness fain had heard, Where, how, and when my husband died and was interr'd. To forms I've always been attached indeed, His death I fain would in the journals read. MEPHISTOPHELES Ay, madam, what two witnesses declare Is held as valid everywhere; A gallant friend I have, not far from here, Who will for you before the judge appear. I'll bring him straight. MARTHA I pray you do ! MEPHISTOPHELES And this young lady, we shall find her too? A noble youth, far traveled, he Shows to the sex all courtesy. MARGARET I in his presence needs must blush for shame. MEPHISTOPHELES Not in the presence of a crowned king! MARTHA The garden, then, behind my house, we '11 name, There we'll await you both this evening. A STREET FAUST, MEPHISTOPHELES FAUST How is it now? How speeds it? Is't in train? MEPHISTOPHELES Bravo ! I find you all aflame ! Gretchen full soon your own you'll name. This eve, at neighbor Martha's, her you'll meet again; The woman seems expressly made To drive the pimp and gipsy's trade. FAUST PART I 359 FAUST Good! MEPHISTOPHELES But from us she something would request. FAUST A favor claims return, as this world goes. MEPHISTOPHELES We have on oath but duly to attest That her dead husband's limbs, outstretch 'd, repose In holy ground at Padua. FAUST Sage indeed! So I suppose we straight must journey there! MEPHISTOPHELES Sancta simplicitas! For that no need! Without much knowledge we have but to swear. FAUST If you have nothing better to suggest, Against your plan I must at once protest. MEPHISTOPHELES Oh, holy man! methinks I have you there! In all your life, say, have you ne'er False witness borne, until this hour? Have you of God, the world, and all it doth contain, Of man, and that which worketh in his heart and brain, Not definitions given, in words of weight and power^ With front unblushing, and a dauntless breast? Yet, if into the depth of things you go, Touching these matters, it must be confess'd, As much as of Herr Schwerdtlein 's death you know! FAUST Thou art and dost remain liar and sophist too. MEPHISTOPHELES Ay, if one did not take a somewhat deeper view! Tomorrow, in all honor, thou 360 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Poor Gretchen wilt befool, and vow Thy soul's deep love, in lover's fashion. FAUST And from my heart. MEPHISTOPHELES All good and fair! Then deathless constancy thou'lt swear; Speak of one all o 'ermastering passion Will that too issue from the heart? FAUST Forbear ! When passion sways me, and I seek to frame Fit utterance for feeling, deep, intense, And for my frenzy finding no fit name, Sweep round the axaple world with every sense, Grasp at the loftiest words to speak my flame, And call the glow, wherewith I burn, Quenchless, eternal, yea, eterne Is that of sophistry a devilish play? MEPHISTOPHELES Yet am I right ! FAUST Mark this, my friend, And spare my lungs ; who would the right maintain, And hath a tongue wherewith his point to gain, Will gain it in the end. But come, of gossip I am weary quite ; Because I've no resource, thou'rt in the right. GARDEN MARGARET on FAUST'S arm. MARTHA with MEPHISTOPHELES walking up and down. MARGARET I feel it, you but spare my ignorance, The gentleman to blame me stoops thus low. 360 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Poor G t befo< /ow Thy so jj love, in lover's fashion. FAUST Ar: my heart. MEPHISTOPHELE^, All good and fair! athless constancy thou'lt swear; >ak of one all o 'ermastering passion Will that too issue from the heart! FAUST Forbear ! When passion sways me, and I. seek to frame Fit utterance for feeling, deep, intense, And for my frenzy finding no fit name, Sweep round^ the ample world with every sense, Grasp at the loftiest words to speak myflame, And call the glow, wOerew.iili rlmrirr^ Quenchless, eternal, yea, eterne Is that of sophistry a devilish play? MEPHISTOPHEUSS Yet am I rigl FAUST Mark this, my friend, d spare my lungs; who would the right maintain, i hath a tongue wherewith his point to gain, gain it in the end. t come, of gossip I am weary quite ; Because I've no resource, thou'rt in the right. GARDEN MARGARET on FAUST'S arm. > ttk MBPHISTOPHKLKS walking up a*d down. From the Pointing by Carl jfadbfBET I feel it, jon but spare my ignorance, The gentleman to blame me stoops thus low. FAUST PART I 361 A traveler from complaisance Still makes the best of things ; I know Too well, my humble prattle never can Have power to entertain so wise a man. FAUST One glance, one word from thee doth charm me more Than the world's wisdom or the sage's lore. [He kisses her hand.] MAEGABET Nay! trouble not yourself! A hand so coarse, So rude as mine, how can you kiss ! What constant work at home must I not do perforce ! My mother too exacting is. [They pass on.] MARTHA Thus, sir, unceasing travel is your lot? MEPHISTOPHELES Traffic and duty urge us ! With what pain Are we compelled to leave full many a spot, Where yet we dare not once remain ! MARTHA In youth's wild years, with vigor crown 'd, 'Tis not amiss thus through the world to sweep; But ah, the evil days come round! And to a lonely grave as bachelor to creep A pleasant thing has no one found. MEPHISTOPHELES The prospect fills me with dismay. MARTHA Therefore in time, dear sir, reflect, I pray. [They pass on.] MARGARET Ay, out of sight is out of mind ! Politeness easy is to you; Friends everywhere, and not a few, Wiser than I am, you will find. 362 THE GEEMAN CLASSICS FAUST dearest, trust me, what doth pass for sense Full oft is self-conceit and blindness ! MARGARET How? FAUST Simplicity and holy innocence When will ye learn your hallow 'd worth to know! Ah, when will meekness and humility, MARGARET Only one little moment think of me! To think of you I shall have many an hour. FAUST You are perhaps much alone? MARGARET Yes, small our household is, I own, Yet must I see to it. No maid we keep, And I must cook, sew, knit, and sweep, Still early on my feet and late; My mother is in all things, great and small, So accurate! Not that for thrift there is such pressing need, Than others we might make more show indeed; My father left behind a small estate, A house and garden near the city-wall. But fairly quiet now my days, I own; As soldier is my brother gone ; My little sister 's dead; the babe to rear Occasion 'd me some care and fond annoy; But I would go through all again with joy, The darling was to me so dear. FAUST An angel, sweet, if it resembled thee ! FAUST PART I 363 MABGABET I reared it up, and it grew fond of me. After my father's death it saw the day; We gave my mother up for lost, she lay In such a wretched plight, and then at length So very slowly she regain 'd her strength. Weak as she was, 'twas vain for her to try Herself to suckle the poor babe, so I Reared it on milk and water all alone ; And thus the child became as 'twere my own; Within my arms it stretched itself and grew, And smiling, nestled in my bosom too. FAUST Doubtless the purest happiness was thine. MAKGAKET But many weary hours, in sooth, were also mine. At night its little cradle stood Close to my bed; so was I wide awake If it but stirred; One while I was obliged to give it food, Or to my arms the darling take; From bed full oft must rise, whene'er its cry I heard, And, dancing it, must pace the chamber to and fro ; Stand at the wash-tub early; forthwith go To market, and then mind the cooking too Tomorrow like today, the whole year through. Ah, sir, thus living, it must be confess 'd One's spirits are not always of the best; Yet it a relish gives to food and rest. [They pass on.] MARTHA Poor women! we are badly off, I own; A bachelor's conversion's hard, indeed! MEPHISTOPHELES Madam, with one like you it rests alone, To tutor me a better course to lead. 364 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MARTHA Speak frankly, sir, none is there you have met? Has your heart ne'er attach 'd itself as yet? MEPHISTOPHELES One's own fire-side and a good wife are gold And pearls of price, so says the proverb old. MARTHA I mean, has passion never stirred your breast? MEPHISTOPHELES I've everywhere been well received, I own. MARTHA Yet hath your heart no earnest preference known? MEPHISTOPHELES With ladies one should ne'er presume to jest. MARTHA Ah ! you mistake I MEPHISTOPHELES I'm sorry I'm so blind! But this I know that you are very kind. [They pass on.] FAUST Me, little angel, didst thou recognize, When in the garden first I came ? MARGARET Did you not see it? I cast down my eyes. FAUST Thou dost forgive my boldness, dost not blame The liberty I took that day, When thou from church didst lately wend thy way? MARGARET I was confused. So had it never been; No one of me could any evil say. Alas, thought I, he doubtless in thy mien, Something unmaidenly or bold hath seen ? Permission Theodor Stroefer, Munich FAUST AND MARGARET IN THE GARDEN LlEZEN-MxYER FAUST PAKT I 365 It seemed as if it struck him suddenly, Here 's just a girl with whom one may make free ! Yet I must own that then I scarcely knew What in your favor here began at once to plead; Yet I was angry with myself indeed That I more angry could not feel with you. FAUST Sweet love ! MARGARET Just wait awhile ! [She gathers a star-flower and plucks off the leaves one after another.] FAUST A nosegay may that be I MARGARET No ! It is but a game. FAUST How! MARGARET Go, you '11 laugh at me ! [She plucks off the leaves and murmurs to herself.] FAUST What murmurest thouf MARGARET (half aloud) He loves me loves me not. FAUST Sweet angel, with thy face of heavenly bliss ! MARGARET (continues) He loves me not he loves me not [plucking off the last leaf with fond joy.] He loves me! FAUST Yes! And this flower-language, darling, let it be 366 THE GERMAN CLASSICS A heavenly oracle ! He loveth thee ! Know'st thou the meaning of, He loveth thee? [He seizes both her hands.] MARGARET I tremble so ! FAUST Nay! do not tremble, love! Let this hand-pressure, let this glance reveal Feelings, all power of speech above ; To give oneself up wholly and to feel A joy that must eternal prove ! Eternal! Yes, its end would be despair, No end! It cannot end! [MARGARET presses his hand, extricates herself, and runs away. He stands a moment in thought, and then follows her.] MARTHA (approaching) Night's closing. MEPHISTOPHELES Yes, we'll presently away. MARTHA I would entreat you longer yet to stay ; But 'tis a wicked place, just here about; It is as if the folk had nothing else to do, Nothing to think of too, But gaping watch their neighbors, who goes in and out ; And scandal's busy still, do whatsoe'er one may. And our young couple? MEPHISTOPHELES ^ They have flown up there, The wanton butterflies ! MARTHA He seems to take to her. And she to him. 'Tis of the world the way ! FAUST PART I 367 A SUMMEE-HOUSE [MABGABET runs in, hides behind the door, holds the tip of her finger to her lip, and peeps through the crevice.] MARGARET He comes ! FAUST Ah, little rogue, so thou Think 'st to provoke me ! I have caught thee now ! [He kisses her.] MARGARET (embracing him, and returning the hiss) Dearest of men ! I love thee from my heart ! [MEPHISTOPHELES knocks.] FAUST (stamping) Who's there? MEPHISTOPHELES A friend ! FAUST A brute! MEPHISTOPHELES 'Tis time to part. MARTHA (comes) Ay, it is late, good sir. FAUST Mayn't I attend you, then? MARGARET Oh no my mother would adieu, adieu I FAUST And must I really then take leave of you? Farewell 1 MARTHA Good-bye I MARGARET Ere long to meet again ! [Exeunt FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES.] 368 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MARGAEET Good heavens ! how all things far and near Must fill his mind a man like this 1 Abash 'd before him I appear, And say to all things only, yes. Poor simple child, I cannot see What 'tis that he can find in me. [Exit.] FOREST AND CAVERN FAUST (alone) Spirit sublime! Thou gav'st me, gav'st me all For which I prayed! Not vainly hast thou turn'd To me thy countenance in flaming fire : Gavest me glorious nature for my realm, And also power to feel her and enjoy; Not merely with a cold and wondering glance, Thou dost permit me in her depths profound, As in the bosom of a friend to gaze. Before me thou dost lead her living tribes, And dost in silent grove, in air and stream Teach me to know my kindred. And when roars The howling storm-blast through the groaning wood, Wrenching the giant pine, which in its fall Crashing sweeps down its neighbor trunks and boughs, While hollow thunder from the hill resounds : Then thou dost lead me to some shelter 'd cave, Dost there reveal me to myself, and show Of my own bosom the mysterious depths. And when with soothing beam, the moon's pale orb Full in my view climbs up the pathless sky, From crag and dewy grove, the silvery forms Of by-gone ages hover, and assuage The joy austere of contemplative thought. Oh, that naught perfect is assign 'd to man, I feel, alas! With this exalted joy, Which lifts me near and nearer to the gods, FAUST PART I 369 Thou gav'st me this companion, unto whom I needs must cling, though cold and insolent, He still degrades me to myself, and turns Thy glorious gifts to nothing, with a breath. He in my bosom with malicious zeal For that fair image fans a raging fire ; From craving to enjoyment thus I reel, And in enjoyment languish for desire. [MEPHISTOPHELES enters.] MEPHISTOPHELES Of this lone life have you not had your fill! How for so long can it have charms for you ? 'Tis well enough to try it if you will ; But then away again to something new ! FAUST Would you could better occupy your leisure, Than in disturbing thus my hours of joy. MEPHISTOPHELES Well ! Well ! I '11 leave you to yourself with pleasure, A serious tone you hardly dare employ. To part from one so crazy, harsh, and cross, Were not in truth a grievous loss. The live-long day, for you I toil and fret ; Ne'er from his worship's face a hint I get, What pleases him, or what to let alone. FAUST Ay truly ! that is just the proper tone ! He wearies me, and would with thanks be paid ! MEPHISTOPHELES Poor Son of Earth, without my aid, How would thy weary days have flown? Thee of thy foolish whims I've cured, Thy vain imaginations banished. And but for me, be well assured, Thou from this sphere must soon have vanished. VOL. 1 24 370 THE GERMAN CLASSICS In rocky hollows and in caverns drear, Why like an owl sit moping here! Wherefore from dripping stones and moss with ooze embued, Dost suck, like any toad, thy food ? A rare, sweet pastime. Verily ! The doctor cleaveth still to thee. FAUST Dost comprehend what bliss without alloy From this wild wand 'ring in the desert springs? Couldst thou but guess the new life-power it brings, Thou wouldst be fiend enough to envy me my joy. MEPHISTOPHELES What super-earthly ecstasy! at night, To lie in darkness on the dewy height, Embracing heaven and earth in rapture high, The soul dilating to a deity; With prescient yearnings pierce the core of earth, Feel in your laboring breast the six-days ' birth, Enjoy, in proud delight what no one knows, While your love-rapture o 'er creation flows The earthly lost in beatific vision, And then the lofty intuition (with a gesture.) I need not tell you how to close ! FAUST Fie on you ! MEPHISTOPHELES This displeases you? " For shame! " You are forsooth entitled to exclaim ; We to chaste ears it seems must not pronounce What, nathless, the chaste heart cannot renounce. Well, to be brief, the joy as fit occasions rise, I grudge you not, of specious lies. But long this mood thou 'It not retain. Already thou'rt again outworn, FAUST PART I 371 And should this last, thou wilt be torn By frenzy or remorse and pain. Enough of this ! Thy true love dwells apart, And all to her seems flat and tame ; Alone thine image fills her heart, She loves thee with an all-devouring flame. First came thy passion with o 'erpowering rush, Like mountain torrent, swollen by the melted snow; Full in her heart didst pour the sudden gush, Now has thy brooklet ceased to flow. Instead of sitting throned midst forests wild, It would become so great a lord To comfort the enamor'd child, And the young monkey for her love reward. To her the hours seem miserably long ; She from the window sees the clouds float by As o'er the lofty city-walls they fly. ' ' If I a birdie were ! " so runs her song, Half through the night and all day long. Cheerful sometimes, more oft at heart full sore; Fairly outwept seem now her tears, Anon she tranquil is, or so appears, And love-sick evermore. FAUST Snake ! Serpent vile ! MEPHISTOPHELES (oSttfe) Good ! If I catch thee with my guile ! FAUST Vile reprobate ! go get thee hence ; Forbear the lovely girl to name ! Nor in my half -distracted sense Kindle anew the smouldering flame I MEPHISTOPHELES What wouldest thou! She thinks you've taken flight; It seems, she's partly in the right. 372 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST Fm near her still and should I distant rove, Her I can ne'er forget, ne'er lose her love; And all things touch 'd by those sweet lips of hers, Even the very Host, my envy stirs. MEPHISTOPHELES 'Tis well ! I oft have envied you indeed, The twin-pair that among the roses feed. FAUST Pander, avaunt! MEPHISTOPHELES Go to ! I laugh, the while you rail ; The power which fashion 'd youth and maid Well understood the noble trade ; So neither shall occasion fail. But hence ! A mighty grief I trow I Unto thy lov'd one's chamber thou And not to death shouldst go. FAUST What is to me heaven's joy within her arms? What though my life her bosom warms ! Do I not ever feel her woe! The outcast am I not, unhoused, unblest, Inhuman monster, without aim or rest, Who, like the greedy surge, from rock to rock, Sweeps down the dread abyss with desperate shock? While she, within her lowly cot, which graced The Alpine slope, beside the waters wild, Her homely cares in that small world embraced, Secluded lived, a simple artless child. Was't not enough, in thy delirious whirl To blast the stedfast rocks! Her, and her peace as well, Must I, God-hated one, to ruin hurl I Dost claim this holocaust, remorseless Hell! Fiend, help me to cut short the hours of dread ! FAUST PART I 373 Let what must happen, happen speedily ! Her direful doom fall crushing on my head, And into ruin let her plunge with me ! MEPHISTOPHELES Why how again it seethes and glows ! Away, thou fool ! Her torment ease ! When such a head no issue sees, It pictures straight the final close. Long life to him who boldly dares ! A devil's pluck thou'rt wont to show; As for a devil who despairs Nothing I find so mawkish here below. MARGARET'S ROOM MARGABET (alone at her spinning wheel) My peace is gone, My heart is sore, I find it never, And nevermore ! Where him I have not, Is the grave ; and all The world to me Is turned to gall. My wilder 'd brain Is overwrought; My feeble senses Are distraught. My peace is gone, My heart is sore, I find it never, And nevermore ! For him from the window I gaze, at home ; For him and him only Abroad I roam. 374 THE GERMAN CLASSICS His lofty step, His bearing high, The smile of his lip, The power of his eye, His witching words, Their tones of bliss, His hand's fond pressure, And ah his kiss! My peace is gone, My heart is sore, I find it never, And nevermore. My bosom aches To feel him near ; Ah, could I clasp And fold him here ! Kiss him and kiss him Again would I, And on his kisses I fain would die. MARTHA'S GARDEN MARGARET and FAUST MARGARET Promise me, Henry! FAUST What I can! MARGARET How thy religion fares, I fain would hear. Thou art a good kind-hearted man, Only that way not well-disposed, I fear. FAUST Forbear, my child ! Thou f eelest thee I love ; My heart, my blood I'd give, my love to prove, And none would of their faith or church bereave. FAUST PAET I 375 MAEGARET That's not enough, we must ourselves believe! FAUST Must we? MABGABET Ah, could I but thy soul inspire ! Thou honorest not the sacraments, alas ! FAUST I honor them. MABGARET But yet without desire ; Tis long since thou hast been either to shrift or mass. Dost thou believe in God? FAUST My darling, who dares say? Yes, I in God believe. Question or priest or sage, and they Seem, in the answer you receive, To mock the questioner. MABGABET Then thou dost not believe? FAUST Sweet one ! my meaning do not misconceive ! Him who dare name, And who proclaim Him I believe? Who that can feel, His heart can steel, To say: I believe him not? The All-embracer, All-sustainer, Holds and sustains he not Thee, me, himself? Lifts not the Heaven its dome above? Doth not the firm-set earth beneath us lie ? And, beaming tenderly with looks of love, 376 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Climb not the everlasting stars on high? Do we not gaze into each other's eyes? Nature's impenetrable agencies, Are they not thronging on thy heart and brain, Viewless, or visible to mortal ken, Around thee weaving their mysterious chain? Fill thence thy heart, how large soe'er it be; And in the feeling when thou utterly art blest, Then call it, what thou wilt Call it Bliss! Heart! Love! God! I have no name for it ! 'Tis feeling all; Name is but sound and smoke Shrouding the glow of heaven. MAKGABET All this is doubtless good and fair; Almost the same the parson says, Only in slightly different phrase. FAUST Beneath Heaven's sunshine, everywhere, This is the utterance of the human heart ; Each in his language doth the like impart; Then why not I in mine? MAKGABET What thus I hear Sounds plausible, yet I'm not reconciled; There 's something wrong about it ; much I fear That thou art not a Christian. FAUST My sweet child! MABGABET Alas ! it long hath sorely troubled me, To see thee in such odious company. FAUST How so? FAUST PART I 377 MAEGAKET The man who comes with thee, I hate, Yea, in my spirit's inmost depths abhor; As his loath 'd visage, in my life before, Naught to my heart e'er gave a pang so great FAUST Him fear not, my sweet love ! MARGARET His presence chills my blood. Toward all beside I have a kindly mood ; Yet, though I yearn to gaze on thee, I feel At sight of him strange horror o 'er me steal ; That he 's a villain my conviction 's strong. May Heaven forgive me, if I do him wrong ! FAUST Yet such strange fellows in the world must be ! MARGARET I would not live with such an one as he. If for a moment he but enter here, He looks around him with a mocking sneer, And malice ill-conceal 'd; That he with naught on earth can sympathize is clear; Upon his brow 'tis legibly revealed That to his heart no living soul is dear. So blest I feel, within thine arms, So warm and happy free from all alarms; And still my heart doth close when he comes near. FAUST Foreboding angel ! check thy fear ! MARGARET It so o'ermasters me that when, Or wheresoe'er, his step I hear, I almost think, no more I love thee then. Besides, when he is near, I ne'er could pray. 378 THE GERMAN CLASSICS This eats into my heart ; with thee The same, my Henry, it must be. FAUST This is antipathy! MAEGAEBT I must away. FAUST For one brief hour then may I never rest, And heart to heart, and soul to soul be pressed! MARGARET Ah, if I slept alone ! Tonight The bolt I fain would leave undrawn for thee ; But then my mother's sleep is light, Were we surprised by her, ah me ! Upon the spot I should be dead. FAUST Dear angel! there's no cause for dread. Here is a little phial if she take Mixed in her drink three drops, 'twill steep Her nature in a deep and soothing sleep. MARGARET What do I not for thy dear sake ! To her it will not harmful prove? FAUST Should I advise it else, sweet love! MARGARET I know not, dearest, when thy face I see, What doth my spirit to thy will constrain ; Already I have done so much for thee, That scarcely more to do doth now remain. [Exit.] (MEPHISTOPHELES enters) MEPHISTOPHELES The monkey! Is she gone? FAUST Again hast played the spy? FAUST PART I 379 MEPHISTOPHELES Of all that pass'd I'm well apprized, I heard the doctor catechized, And trust he '11 profit much thereby ! Fain would the girls inquire indeed Touching their lover's faith and creed, And whether pious in the good old way; They think, if pliant there, us too he will obey. FAUST Thou monster, dost not see that this Pure soul, possessed by ardent love, Full of the living faith, To her of bliss The only pledge, must holy anguish prove, Holding the man she loves fore-doomed to endless death! MEPHISTOPHELES Most sensual, supersensualist! The while A damsel leads thee by the nose! FAUST Of filth and fire abortion vile ! MEPHISTOPHELES In physiognomy strange skill she shows ; She in my presence feels she knows not how; My mask it seems a hidden sense reveals ; That I'm a genius she must needs allow, That I'm the very devil perhaps she feels. So then tonight FAUST What's that to yout MEPHISTOPHELES I've my amusement in it too! AT THE WELL MARGARET and BESSY, with pitchers BESSY Of Barbara hast nothing heard! 380 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MAEGAEET I rarely go from home no, not a word. BESSY 'Tis true: Sybilla told me so today! That comes of being proud, methinks ; She played the fool at last. MABGARET How so? BESSY They say That two she feedeth when she eats and drinks. MABGARET Alas! BESSY She's rightly served, in sooth. How long she hung upon the youth ! What promenades, what jaunts there were To dancing booth and village fair ! The first she everywhere must shine, He always treating her to pastry and to wine. Of her good looks she was so vain, So shameless too, that to retain His presents, she did not disdain ; Sweet words and kisses came anon And then the virgin flower was gone. MABGABET Poor thing! BESSY Forsooth dost pity her? At night, when at our wheels we sat, Abroad our mothers ne 'er would let us stir. Then with her lover she must chat, Or on the bench, or in the dusky walk, Thinking the hours too brief for their sweet talk ; Her proud head she will have to bow, And in white sheet do penance now! FAUST PART I 381 MARGARET But he will surely marry her? BESSY Not he! He won't be such a fool! a gallant lad Like him can roam o 'er land and sea ; Besides, he 's off. MARGARET That is not fair! BESSY If she should get him, 'twere almost as bad! Her myrtle wreath the boys would tear ; And then we girls would plague her too, For we chopp 'd straw before her door would strew ! [Exit.] MARGARET (walking toward home) How stoutly once I could inveigh, If a poor maiden went astray ; Not words enough my tongue could find, 'Gainst others' sin to speak my mind! Black as it seemed, I blacken 'd it still more, And strove to make it blacker than before. And did myself securely bless Now my own trespass doth appear! Yet ah! what urg'd me to transgress, God knows, it was so sweet, so dear ! ZWINGEE Inclosure between the City-wall and the Gate. (In the niche of the watt a devotional image of the Mater doloroea, with flower-pots before it.) MARGARET (putting fresh flowers in Hie pots) Ah, rich in sorrow, thou, Stoop thy maternal brow, And mark with pitying eye my misery ! The sword in thy pierced heart, 382 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Thou dost with bitter smart Gaze upwards on thy Son's death agony. To the dear God on high Ascends thy piteous sigh, Pleading for his and thy sore misery. Ah, who can know The torturing woe, The pangs that rack me to the bone? How my poor heart, without relief, Trembles and throbs, its yearning grief Thou knowest, thou alone! Ah, wheresoever I go, With woe, with woe, with woe, My anguish 'd breast is aching! When all alone I creep, I weep, I weep, I weep, Alas! my heart is breaking! The flower-pots at my window Were wet with tears of mine, The while I pluck 'd these blossoms At dawn to deck thy shrine! When early in my chamber Shone bright the rising morn, I sat there on my pallet, My heart with anguish torn. Help! from disgrace and death deliver me! Ah ! rich in sorrow, thou, Stoop thy maternal brow, And mark with pitying eye my misery ! NIGHT. STREET BEFORE MARGARET'S DOOR VALENTINE (a soldier, MARGABET'S brother) When seated 'mong the jovial crowd, Where merry comrades boasting loud Each named with pride his favorite lass, FAUST PART I 383 And in her honor drain 'd his glass; Upon my elbows I would lean, With easy quiet view the scene, Nor give my tongue the rein, until Each swaggering blade had talked his fill. Then smiling I my beard would stroke, The while, with brimming glass, I spoke; * ' Each to his taste ! but to my mind, Where in the country will you find, A maid, as my dear Gretchen fair, Who with my sister can compare! " Cling! clang! so rang the jovial sound! Shouts of assent went circling round; Pride of her sex is she! cried some; Then were the noisy boasters dumb. And now! I could tear out my hair, Or dash my brains out in despair! Me every scurvy knave may twit, With stinging jest and taunting sneer! Like skulking debtor I must sit, And sweat each casual word to hear ! And though I smash 'd them one and all, Yet them I could not liars call. Who comes this way? who's sneaking heret If I mistake not, two draw near. If he be one, have at him; well I wot Alive he shall not leave this spot! FAUST. MEPHISTOPHELES FAUST How far from yon sacristy, athwart the night, Its beams the ever-burning taper throws, While ever waning, fades the glimmering light, As gathering darkness doth around it close! So night like gloom doth in my bosom reign. 384 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES I'm like a tom-cat in a thievish vein That up fire-ladders tall and steep And round the walls doth slyly creep; Virtuous withal I feel, with, I confess, A touch of thievish joy and wantonness. Thus through my limbs already burns The glorious Walpurgis night! After tomorrow it returns; Then why one wakes, one knows aright! FAUST Meanwhile, the treasure I see glimmering there. Will it ascend into the open air! MEPHISTOPHELES Ere long thou wilt proceed with pleasure To raise the casket with its treasure ; I took a peep, therein are stored Of lion-dollars a rich hoard. FAUST And not a trinket? not a ring! Wherewith my lovely girl to deck! MEPHISTOPHELES I saw among them some such thing, A string of pearls to grace her neck. FAUST 'Tis well! I'm always loath to go, Without some gift my love to show. MEPHISTOPHELES Some pleasures gratis to enjoy Should surely cause you no annoy. While bright with stars the heavens appear, I'll sing a masterpiece of art: A moral song shall charm her ear, More surely to beguile her heart. (Sings to the guitar.) FAUST PAET I 385 Kathrina, say, Why lingering stay At dawn of day Before your lover 's doorT Maiden, beware, Nor enter there, Lest forth you fare, A maiden never more. Maiden take heed! Reck well my rede ! Is't done, the deed! Good night, you poor, poor thing! The spoiler's lies, His arts despise, Nor yield your prize, Without the marriage ring! VALENTINE (steps forward) Whom are you luring here! I'll give it you! Accursed rat-catchers, your strains I'll end! First, to the devil the guitar I'll send! Then to the devil with the singer too! MEPHISTOPHELES The poor guitar! 'tis done for now. VALENTINE Your skull shall follow next, I trow! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST ) Doctor, stand fast! your strength collect! Be prompt, and do as I direct. Out with your whisk! keep close, I pray, I'll parry! do you thrust away! VALENTINE Then parry that! MEPHISTOPHELES Why not! VOL. 1 25 386 THE GERMAN CLASSICS VALENTINE That too! MEPHISTOPHELES With ease! VALENTINE The devil fights for you! Why how is this? my hand's already lamed! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST) Thrust home! VALENTINE (falls) Alas! MEPHISTOPHELES There! Now the lubber's tamed! But quick, away ! We must at once take wing ; A cry of murder strikes upon the ear; With the police I know my course to steer, But with the blood-ban 'tis another thing. MARTHA (at the window) Without! without! MARGARET (at the window) Quick, bring a light! MARTHA (as above) They rail and scuffle, scream and fight ! PEOPLE One lieth here already dead! MARTHA (coming out) Where are the murderers! are they fledT MARGARET (coming out) Who lieth here? PEOPLE Thy mother's son. MARGARET Almighty God! I am undone! FAUST PAETI 387 VALENTINE I'm dying 'tis a soon- told tale, And sooner done the deed. Why, women, do ye howl and wail! To my last words give heed ! [All gather round him.] My Gretchen, see ! still young art thou, Art not discreet enough, I trow, Thou dost thy matters ill; Let this in confidence be said: Since thou the path of shame dost tread, Tread it with right good will! MARGARET My brother! God! what can this mean? VALENTINE Abstain, Nor dare God's holy name profane! What's done, alas, is done and past! Matters will take their course at last; By stealth thou dost begin with one, Others will follow him anon; And when a dozen thee have known, Thou 'It common be to all the town. When infamy is newly born, In secret she is brought to light, And the mysterious veil of night O'er head and ears is drawn; The loathsome birth men fain would slay; But soon, full grown, she waxes bold, And though not fairer to behold, With brazen front insults the day : The more abhorrent to the sight, The more she courts the day's pure light, The time already I discern, When thee all honest folk will spurn, And shun thy hated form to meet, 388 THE GERMAN CLASSICS As when a corpse infects the street. Thy heart will sink in blank despair, When they shall look thee in the face! A golden chain no more thou'lt wear! Nor near the altar take in church thy place ! In fair lace collar simply dight Thou'lt dance no more with spirits light! In darksome corners thou wilt bide, Where beggars vile and cripples hide, And e'en though God thy crime forgive, On earth, a thing accursed, thou'lt live! MARTHA Your parting soul to God commend! Your dying breath in slander will you spend! VALENTINE Could I but reach thy wither 'd frame, Thou wretched beldame, void of shame! Full measure I might hope to win Of pardon then for every sin. MARGARET Brother! what agonizing pain! VALENTINE I tell thee, from vain tears abstain ! 'Twas thy dishonor pierced my heart, Thy fall the fatal death-stab gave. Through the death-sleep I now depart To God, a soldier true and brave. [Dies.] CATHEDRAL Service, Organ, and Anthem. MARGARET amongst a number of people EVIL-SPIRIT behind MARGARET EVIL-SPIRIT How different, Gretchen, was it once with thee, When thou, still full of innocence, Permission Deutsche Verlags-Anstalt, Stuttgart VALENTINE'S DEATH FRANZ SIMM FAUST PAETI 389 Here to the altar earnest, And from the small and well-con 'd book Didst lisp thy prayer, Half childish sport, Half God in thy young heart! Gretchen ! What thoughts are thine? What deed of shame Lurks in thy sinful heart? Is thy prayer utter 'd for thy mother 's soul, Who into long, long torment slept through thee? Whose blood is on thy threshold? And stirs there not already 'neath thy heart Another quick 'ning pulse, that even now Tortures itself and thee With its foreboding presence? MARGARET Woe! Woe! Oh, could I free me from the thoughts That hither, thither, crowd upon my brain, Against my will ! CHORUS Dies irce, dies ilia, Solvet sceclum in favilla. [The organ sounds.] EVIL-SPIRIT Grim horror seizes thee! The trumpet sounds ! The graves are shaken! And thy heart From ashy rest For torturing flames Anew created, Trembles into life! 390 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MARGARET Would I were hence I It is as if the organ Choked my breath, As if the choir Melted my inmost heart! CHORUS Judex ergo cum sedebit, Quidquid latet adparebit, Nil inultum remanebit. MARGARET I feel oppressed! The pillars of the wall Imprison me! The vaulted roof Weighs down upon me! air! EVIL-SPIRIT Wouldst hide thee ? sin and shame Eemain not hidden! Air! light! Woe's thee! CHORUS Quid sum miser tune dicturus? Quern patronum rogaturus! Cum vix Justus sit securus. EVIL-SPIRIT The glorified their faces turn Away from thee! Shudder the pure to reach Their hands to thee! Woe! CHORUS Quid sum miser tune dicturus MARGARET Neighbor! your smelling bottle! [She swoons away.] * M us 390 i SRM AN CLASSICS aGARET hence ! organ th, A-. choir Me inmost heart! CHORUS Judex ergo cunt sedebit, Quidquid latet adparebit, NU inultwn remanebit. MABQABET I feel oppressed! The pillars of the wall Imprison i The vaulted roof EVTL-SPIRIT Wouldst hide thee? sin and shame Bemain not hidden I Air! light! Woe's thee! OTSOBTJS Quid sum mi-ser tune diet urusf Quern patromim rogaiurus! Cum vix Justus sit securus. EVIL-SPIBIT Th* glorified their faces turn adder the pure to reach ike MABGA Neigh -ing bottle! . [She swoons away.] FAUST PAET I 391 WALPURGIS-NIGHT THE HARTZ MOUNTAINS. DISTRICT OF SCHIERKE AND ELEND FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES MEPHISTOPHELES A broomstick dost thou not at least desire? The roughest he-goat fain would I bestride, By this road from our goal we're still far wide. FAUST While fresh upon my legs, so long I naught require, Except this knotty staff. Beside, What boots it to abridge a pleasant way? Along the labyrinth of these vales to creep, Then scale these rocks, whence, in eternal spray, Adown the cliffs the silvery fountains leap: Such is the joy that seasons paths like these 1 Spring weaves already in the birchen trees ; E 'en the late pine-grove feels her quickening powers ; Should she not work within these limbs of ours? MEPHISTOPHELES Naught of this genial influence do I know! Within me all is wintry. Frost and snow I should prefer my dismal path to bound. How sadly, yonder, with belated glow Rises the ruddy moon's imperfect round, Shedding so faint a light, at every tread One's sure to stumble 'gainst a rock or tree! An Ignis Fatuus I must call instead. Yonder one burning merrily, I see. Holla ! my friend ! may I request your light? Why should you flare away so uselessly! Be kind enough to show us up the height! 392 THE GERMAN CLASSICS IGNIS FATUUS Through reverence, I hope I may subdue The lightness of my nature; true, Our course is but a zigzag one. MEPHISTOPHELES Ho ! ho ! So men, forsooth, he thinks to imitate! Now, in the devil's name, for once go straight! Or out at once your flickering life I'll blow. IGNIS FATUUS That you are master here is obvious quite ; To do your will, I'll cordially essay; Only reflect! The hill is magic-mad tonight; And if to show the path you choose a meteor's light, You must not wonder should we go astray. FAUST, MEPHISTOPHELES, IGNIS FATUUS (in alternate song) Through the dream and magic-sphere, As it seems, we now are speeding; Honor win, us rightly leading, That betimes we may appear In yon wide and desert region! Trees on trees, a stalwart legion, Swiftly past us are retreating, And the cliffs with lowly greeting; Rocks long-snouted, row on row, How they snort, and how they blow! Through the stones and heather springing, Brook and brooklet haste below; Hark the rustling! Hark the singing! Hearken to love's plaintive lays; Voices of those heavenly days What we hope, and what we love ! Like a tale of olden time, Echo's voice prolongs the chime. FAUST PAET I 393 To-whit ! To-who ! It sounds more near ; Plover, owl, and jay appear, All awake, around, above? Paunchy salamanders too Peer, long-limbed, the bushes through ! And, like snakes, the roots of trees Coil themselves from rock and sand, Stretching many a wondrous band, Us to frighten, us to seize; From rude knots with life embued, Polyp-fangs abroad they spread, To snare the wanderer ! 'Neath our tread, Mice, in myriads, thousand-hued, Through the heath and through the moss ! And the fire-flies' glittering throng, Wildering escort, whirls along, Here and there, our path across. Tell me, stand we motionless, Or still forward do we press? All things round us whirl and fly, Bocks and trees make strange grimaces, Dazzling meteors change their places How they puff and multiply! MEPHISTOPHELES Now grasp my doublet we at last A central peak have reached, which shows, If round a wondering glance we cast, How in the mountain Mammon glows. FAUST How through the chasms strangely gleams, A lurid light, like dawn's red glow, Pervading with its quivering beams, The gorges of the gulf below ! Here vapors rise, there clouds float by, Here through the mist the light doth shine; Now, like a fount, it bursts on high, 394 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Meanders now, a slender line; Far reaching, with a hundred veins, Here through the valley see it glide; Here, where its force the gorge restrains, At once it scatters, far and wide; Anear, like showers of golden sand Strewn broadcast, sputter sparks of light: And mark yon rocky walls that stand Ablaze, in all their towering height ! MEPHISTOPHELES Doth not Sir Mammon for this fete Grandly illume his palace! Thou Art lucky to have seen it; now, The boisterous guests, I feel, are coming straight. FAUST How through the air the storm doth whirl! Upon my neck it strikes with sudden shock. MEPHISTOPHELES Cling to these ancient ribs of granite rock, Else to yon depths profound it you will hurl. A murky vapor thickens night. Hark ! Through the woods the tempests roar ! The owlets flit in wild affright. Hark! Splinter 'd are the columns that upbore The leafy palace, green for aye: The shivered branches whirr and sigh, Yawn the huge trunks with mighty groan, The roots, upriven, creak and moan! In fearful and entangled fall, One crashing ruin whelms them all, While through the desolate abyss, Sweeping the wreck-strewn precipice, The raging storm-blasts howl and hiss! Aloft strange voices dost thou heart Distant now and now more near? Hark! the mountain ridge along, Streameth a raving magic-song! FAUST PAET I 395 WITCHES (in chorus) Now to the Brocken the witches hie, The stubble is yellow, the corn is green; Thither the gathering legions fly, And sitting aloft is Sir Urian seen : O'er stick and o'er stone they go whirling along, Witches and he-goats, a motley throng. VOICES Alone old Baubo's coming now; She rides upon a farrow sow. CHORUS Honor to her, to whom honor is due! Forward, Dame Baubo! Honor to you! A goodly sow and mother thereon, The whole witch chorus follows anon. VOICE Which way didst come? VOICE 'er Ilsenstein I There I peep'd in an owlet's nest. With her broad eye she gazed in mine! VOICE Drive to the devil, thou hellish pest! Why ride so hard? VOICE She has graz'd my side, Look at the wounds, how deep and how wide I WITCHES (in chorus) The way is broad, the way is long; What mad pursuit ! What tumult wild ! Scratches the besom and sticks the prong; Crush 'd is the mother, and stifled the child. WIZARDS (half chorus) Like house-encumber 'd snail we creep; While far ahead the women keep, 396 THE GERMAN CLASSICS For when to the devil's house we speed, By a thousand steps they take the lead. THE OTHER HALF Not so, precisely do we view it; They with a thousand steps may do it; But let them hasten as they can, With one long bound 'tis clear 'd by man. VOICES (above) Come with us, come with us from Felsensee. VOICES (from below) Aloft to you we would mount with glee! We wash, and free from all stain are we, Yet barren evermore must be! BOTH CHORUSES The wind is hushed, the stars grow pale, The pensive moon her light doth veil; And whirling on, the magic choir Sputters forth sparks of drizzling fire. VOICE (from below) Stay! stay! VOICE (from above) What voice of woe Calls from the cavern 'd depths below? VOICE (from below) Take me with you ! Oh take me too ! Three centuries I climb in vain, And yet can ne 'er the summit gain ! To be with my kindred I am fain. BOTH CHORUSES Broom and pitch-fork, goat and prong, Mounted on these we whirl along; Who vainly strives to climb tonight, Is evermore a luckless wight! FAUST PAET I 397 DEMI- WITCH (below) I hobble after, many a day; Already the others are far away! No rest at home can I obtain Here too my efforts are in vain! CHORUS OF WITCHES Salve gives the witches strength to rise; A rag for a sail does well enough ; A goodly ship is every trough ; Tonight who flies not, never flies. BOTH CHORUSES And when the topmost peak we round, Then alight ye on the ground; The heath 's wide regions cover ye "With your mad swarms of witchery! [They let themselves down.] MEPHISTOPHELES They crowd and jostle, whirl and flutter! They whisper, babble, twirl, and splutter! They glimmer, sparkle, stink and flare A true witch-element! Beware! Stick close ! else we shall severed be. Where art thou? FAUST (in the distance) Here! MEPHISTOPHELES Already, whirl 'd so far away! The master then indeed I needs must play. Give ground! Squire Voland comes! Sweet folk, give ground ! Here, doctor, grasp me! With a single bound Let us escape this ceaseless jar; Even for me too mad these people are. Hard by there shineth something with peculiar glare, Yon brake allureth me ; it is not far ; Come, come along with me! we'll slip in there. 398 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST Spirit of contradiction! Lead! I'll follow straight! Twas wisely done, however, to repair On May-night to the Brocken, and when there, By our own choice ourselves to isolate! MEPHISTOPHELES Mark, of those flames the motley glare! A merry club assembles there. In a small circle one is not alone. FAUST I'd rather be above, though, I must own! Already fire and eddying smoke I view; The impetuous millions to the devil ride; Full many a riddle will be there untied. MEPHISTOPHELES Ay! and full many a riddle tied anew. But let the great world rave and riot! Here will we house ourselves in quiet. A custom 'tis of ancient date, Our lesser worlds within the great world to create! Young witches there I see, naked and bare, And old ones, veil'd more prudently. For my sake only courteous be! The trouble small, the sport is rare. Of instruments I hear the cursed din One must get used to it. Come in ! come in ! There's now no help for it. I'll step before, And introducing you as my good friend, Confer on you one obligation more. How say you now? 'Tis no such paltry room; Why only look, you scarce can see the end. A hundred fires in rows disperse the gloom; They dance, they talk, they cook, make love, and drink; "Where could we find aught better, do you think? FAUST PAET I 399 FAUST To introduce us, do you purpose here As devil or as wizard to appear? MEPHISTOPHELES Though I am wont indeed to strict incognito, Yet upon gala-days one must one's orders show. No garter have I to distinguish me, Nathless the cloven foot doth here give dignity. Seest thou yonder snail? Crawling this way she hies; With searching feelers, she, no doubt, Hath me already scented out; Here, even if I would, for me there's no disguise. From fire to fire, we'll saunter at our leisure, The gallant you, I'll cater for your pleasure. (To a party seated round some expiring embers) Old gentleman, apart, why sit ye moping here ? Ye in the midst should be of all this jovial cheer, Girt round with noise and youthful riot; At home one surely has enough of quiet. GENERAL In nations put his trust, who may, Whate 'er for them one may have done ; For with the people, as with women, they Honor your rising stars alone! MINISTER Now all too far they wander from the right; I praise the good old ways, to them I hold, Then was the genuine age of gold, When we ourselves were foremost in men's sight. PARVENU Ne'er were we 'mong your dullards found, And what we ought not, that to do were fair; Yet now are all things turning round and round, When on firm basis we would them maintain. 400 THE GERMAN CLASSICS AUTHOR Who, as a rule, a treatise now would care To read, of even moderate sense? As for the rising generation, ne'er Has youth displayed such arrogant pretense. MEPHISTOPHELES (suddenly appearing very old) Since for the last time I the Brocken scale, That folk are ripe for doomsday, now one sees; And just because my cask begins to fail, So the whole world is also on the lees. HUCKSTER- WITCH Stop, gentlemen, nor pass me by, Of wares I have a choice collection: Pray honor them with your inspection. Lose not this opportunity! Yet nothing in my booth you'll find Without its counterpart on earth ; there 's naught, Which to the world, and to mankind, Hath not some direful mischief wrought. No dagger here, which hath not flow'd with blood, No chalice, whence, into some healthy frame Hath not been poured hot poison's wasting flood. No trinket, but hath wrought some woman's shame, No weapon but hath cut some sacred tie, Or from behind hath stabb'd an enemy. MEPHISTOPHELES Gossip! For wares like these the time's gone by, What's done is past! what's past is done! With novelties your booth supply; Us novelties attract alone. FAUST May this wild scene my senses spare! This, may in truth be called a fair! MEPHISTOPHELES Upward the eddying concourse throng; Thinking to push, thyself art push'd along. FAUST PAET I 401 FAUST Who's that, prayT MEPHISTOPHELES Mark her well! That's Lilith. FAUST Who! MEPHISTOPHELES Adam 's first wife. Of her rich locks beware ! That charm in which she's parallel 'd by few, When in its toils a youth she doth ensnare He will not soon escape, I promise you. FAUST There sit a pair, the old one with the young; Already they have bravely danced and sprung ! MEPHISTOPHELES Here there is no repose today. Another dance begins; we'll join it, come away! FAUST (dancing with the young one) Once a fair vision came to me; Therein I saw an apple-tree, Two beauteous apples charmed mine eyes ; I climb 'd forthwith to reach the prize. THE FAIB ONE Apples still fondly ye desire, From paradise it hath been so. Feelings of joy my breast inspire That such too in my garden grow. MEPHISTOPHELES (ivith the old one} Once a weird vision came to me; Therein I saw a rifted tree. It had a ; But as it was it pleased me too. THE OLD ONE I beg most humbly to salute VOL. 1 26 402 THE GERMAN CLASSICS The gallant with the cloven foot ! Let him . . . have ready here, If he a . . . does not fear. PROCTOPHANTASMIST Accursed mob! How dare ye thus to meett Have I not shown and demonstrated too, That ghosts stand not on ordinary feet? Yet here ye dance, as other mortals do! THE FAIR ONE (dancing) Then at our ball, what doth he here? FAUST (dancing) Oh ! He must everywhere appear. He must adjudge, when others dance; If on each step his say's not said, So is that step as good as never made. He's most annoyed, so soon as we advance; If ye would circle in one narrow round, As he in his old mill, then doubtless he Your dancing would approve, especially If ye forthwith salute him with respect profound ! PROCTOPHANTASMIST Still here ! what arrogance ! unheard of quite ! Vanish ; we now have fill 'd the world with light ! Laws are unheeded by the devil's host; Wise as we are, yet Tegel hath its ghost ! How long at this conceit I've swept with all my might, Lost is the labor : 'tis unheard of quite ! THE FAIR ONE Cease here to teaze us any more, I pray. PROCTOPHANTASMIST Spirits, I plainly to your face declare: No spiritual control myself will bear, Since my own spirit can exert no sway. [The dancing continues.] FAUST PAETI 403 Tonight, I see, I shall in naught succeed; But I'm prepared my travels to pursue, And hope, before my final step indeed, To triumph over bards and devils too. MEPHISTOPHELES Now in some puddle will he take his station, Such is his mode of seeking consolation ; Where leeches, feasting on his rump, will drain Spirits alike and spirit from his brain. (To FAUST, who has left the dance) But why the charming damsel leave, I pray, Who to you in the dance so sweetly sang? FAUST Ah! in the very middle of her lay, Out of her mouth a small red mouse there sprang. MEPHISTOPHELES Suppose there did ! One must not be too nice. 'Twas well it was not gray, let that suffice. Who 'mid his pleasures for a trifle cares! FAUST Then saw I MEPHISTOPHELES What? FAUST Mephisto, seest thou there Standing far off, a lone child, pale and fair? Slow from the spot her drooping form she tears, And seems with shackled feet to move along; I own, within me the delusion's strong, That she the likeness of my Gretchen wears. MEPHISTOPHELES Gaze not upon her ! 'Tis not good ! Forbear ! 'Tis lifeless, magical, a shape of air, An idol. Such to meet with, bodes no good ; That rigid look of hers doth freeze man's blood, 404 THE GERMAN CLASSICS And well-nigh petrifies his heart to stone : The story of Medusa thou hast known. FATJST Ay, verily! a corpse's eyes are those, Which there was no fond loving hand to close. That is the bosom I so fondly press 'd, That my sweet Gretchen's form, so oft caress 'd! MEPHISTOPHELES Deluded fool! 'Tis magic, I declare! To each she doth his lov'd one's image wear. FAUST What bliss ! what torture ! vainly I essay To turn me from that piteous look away. How strangely doth a single crimson line Around that lovely neck its coil entwine, It shows no broader than a knife 's blunt edge ! MEPHISTOPHELES Quite right. I see it also, and allege That she beneath her arm her head can bear, Since Perseus cut it off. But you I swear Are craving for illusions still ! Come then, ascend yon little hill! As on the Prater all is gay, And if my senses are not gone, I see a theatre, what's going onf SEBVIBILIS They are about to recommence; the play Will be the last of seven, and spick-span new 'Tis usual here that number to present. A dilettante did the piece invent, And dilettanti will enact it too. Excuse me, gentlemen; to me's assign 'd, As dilettante to uplift the curtain. MEPHISTOPHELES You on the Blocksberg I'm rejoiced to find, That 'tis your most appropriate sphere is certain. FAUST -PART I 405 WALPURGIS-NIGHT'S DREAM; OR, OBERON AND TITANIA'S GOLDEN WEDDING-FEAST INTERMEZZO THEATRE MANAGER Vales, where mists still shift and play, To ancient hill succeeding, These our scenes; so we, today, May rest, brave sons of Mieding. HERALD That the marriage golden be, Must fifty years be ended ; More dear this feast of gold to me, Contention now suspended. OBERON Spirits, if present, grace the scene, And if with me united, Then gratulate the king and queen, Their troth thus newly plighted! PUCK Puck draws near and wheels about, In mazy circles dancing! Hundreds swell his joyous shout, Behind him still advancing. ARIEL, Ariel wakes his dainty air, His lyre celestial stringing. Fools he lureth, and the fair, With his celestial singing. OBERON Wedded ones, would ye agree, We court your imitation: Would ye fondly love as we, We counsel separation. 406 THE GERMAN CLASSICS TITANIA If husband scold and wife retort, Then bear them far asunder; Her to the burning south transport, And him the North Pole under. THE WHOLE ORCHESTRA (fortissimo) Flies and midges all unite With frog and chirping cricket, Our orchestra throughout the night, Resounding in the thicket! (Solo) Yonder doth the bagpipe come! Its sack an airy bubble. Schnick, schnick, schnack, with nasal hum, Its notes it doth redouble. EMBRYO SPIRIT Spider's foot and midge's wing, A toad in form and feature; Together verses it can string, Though scarce a living creature. A LITTLE PAIR Tiny step and lofty bound, Through dew and exhalation; Ye trip it deftly on the ground, But gain no elevation. INQUISITIVE TRAVELLER Can I indeed believe my eyes? Is't not mere masquerading? What! Oberon in beauteous guise, Among the groups parading! ORTHODOX No claws, no tail to whisk about, To fright us at our revel; Yet like the gods of Greece, no doubt, He too's a genuine devil. FAUST PAET I 407 NORTHERN ARTIST These that I'm hitting off today- Are sketches unpretending; Toward Italy without delay, My steps I think of bending. PURIST Alas ! ill-fortune leads me here, Where riot still grows louder; And 'mong the witches gathered here, But two alone wear powder ! YOUNG WITCH Your powder and your petticoat, Suit hags, there's no gainsaying; Hence I sit fearless on my goat, My naked charms displaying. MATRON We're too well-bred to squabble here, Or insult back to render; But may you wither soon, my dear, Although so young and tender. LEADER OF THE BAND Nose of fly and gnat's proboscis, Throng not the naked beauty! Progs and crickets in the mosses, Keep time and do your duty! WEATHERCOCK (toward one side) What charming company I view Together here collected ! Gay bachelors, a hopeful crew, And brides so unaffected! WEATHERCOCK (toward the other side) Unless indeed the yawning ground Should open to receive them, From this vile crew, with sudden bound, To Hell I'd jump and leave them. 408 THE GERMAN CLASSICS XENIEN With small sharp shears, in insect guise, Behold us at your revel ! That we may tender, filial-wise, Our homage to the devil. HENNINGS Look now at yonder eager crew, How naively they're jesting! That they have tender hearts and true, They stoutly keep protesting ! MUSAGET Oneself amid this witchery How pleasantly one loses ; For witches easier are to me To govern than the Muses! CI-DEVANT GENIUS OF THE AGE With proper folks when we appear, No one can then surpass us! Keep close, wide is the Blocksberg here As Germany's Parnassus. INQUISITIVE TRAVELLER How name ye that stiff formal man, Who strides with lofty paces? He tracks the game where'er he can, " He scents the Jesuits' traces." CRANE Where waters troubled are or clear, To fish I am delighted; Thus pious gentlemen appear With devils here united. WORLDLING By pious people, it is true, No medium is rejected; Conventicles, and not a few, On Blocksberg are erected. FAUST PAKTI 409 DANCEB Another chorus now succeeds, Far off the drums are beating. Be still ! The bitterns 'mong the reeds Their one note are repeating. DANCING MASTEB Each twirls about and never stops, And as he can he fareth. The crooked leaps, the clumsy hops, Nor for appearance careth. FIDDLER To take each other's life, I trow, Would cordially delight them ! As Orpheus' lyre the beasts, so now The bagpipe doth unite them. DOGMATIST My views, in spite of doubt and sneer, I hold with stout persistence, Inferring from the devils here, The evil one's existence. IDEALIST My every sense rules Phantasy With sway quite too potential; Sure I'm demented if the 1 Alone is the essential. BEALIST This entity's a dreadful bore, And cannot choose but vex me; The ground beneath me ne'er before Thus totter 'd to perplex me. SUPEBNATURALIST Well pleased assembled here I view Of spirits this profusion ; From devils, touching angels too, I gather some conclusion. 410 THE GERMAN CLASSICS SCEPTIC The ignis fatuus they track out, And think they're near the treasure. Devil alliterates with doubt, Here I abide with pleasure. LEADER OF THE BAND Frog and cricket in the mosses, Confound your gasconading ! Nose of fly and gnat's proboscis; Most tuneful serenading ! THE KNOWING ONES Sans souci, so this host we greet, Their jovial humor showing; There's now no walking on our feet, So on our heads we're going. THE AWKWARD ONES In seasons past we snatch 'd, 'tis true, Some tit-bits by our cunning; Our shoes, alas, are now danced through, On our bare soles we're running. WILL-O '-THE- WISPS From marshy bogs we sprang to light, Yet here behold us dancing; The gayest gallants of the night, In glitt'ring rows advancing. SHOOTING STAR With rapid motion from on high, I shot in starry splendor; Now prostrate on the grass I lie ; Who aid will kindly render? THE MASSIVE ONES Room ! wheel round I They 're coming ! lo ! Down sink the bending grasses. Though spirits, yet their limbs, we know, Are huge substantial masses. FAUST PAKTI 411 PUCK Don't stamp so heavily, I pray; Like elephants you're treading! And 'mong the elves be Puck today, The stoutest at the wedding! AEIEL If nature boon, or subtle sprite, Endow your soul with pinions ; Then follow to yon rosy height, Through ether's calm dominions! OBCHESTRA (pianissimo) Drifting cloud and misty wreathes Are fill'd with light elysian; O'er reed and leaf the zephyr breathes So fades the fairy vision ! A GLOOMY DAY. A PLAIN FAUST and MEPHISTOPHELES FAUST In misery! despairing! long wandering pitifully on the face of the earth and now imprisoned ! This gentle hapless creature, immured in the dungeon as a malefactor and reserved for horrid tortures! That it should come to this! To this! Perfidious, worthless spirit, and this thou hast concealed from me! Stand! ay, stand! roll in mali- cious rage thy fiendish eyes! Stand and brave me with thine insupportable presence! Imprisoned! In hopeless misery! Delivered over to the power of evil spirits Lnd the judgment of unpi tying humanity! And me, the while, thou wert lulling with tasteless dissipations, concealing from me her growing anguish, and leaving her to perish without help ! MEPHISTOPHELES She is not the first. FAUST Hound! Execrable monster! Back with him, oh thou 412 THE GERMAN CLASSICS infinite spirit! back with the reptile into his dog's shape, in which it was his wont to scamper before me at eventide, to roll before the feet of the harmless wanderer, and to fasten on his shoulders when he fell! Change him again into his favorite shape, that he may crouch on his belly before me in the dust, whilst I spurn him with my foot, the reprobate! Not the first! Woe! Woe! By no human soul is it conceivable, that more than one human creature has ever sunk into a depth of wretchedness like this, or that the first in her writhing death-agony should not have atoned in the sight of all-pardoning Heaven for the guilt of all the rest ! The misery of this one pierces me to the very mar- row, and harrows up my soul; thou art grinning calmly over the doom of thousands ! MEPHISTOPHELES Now we are once again at our wit's end, just where the reason of you mortals snaps ! Why dost thou seek our fellowship, if thou canst not go through with it? Wilt fly, and art not proof against dizziness? Did we force our- selves on thee, or thou on us? FAITST Cease thus to gnash thy ravenous fangs at me ! I loathe thee! Great and glorious spirit, thou who didst vouch- safe to reveal thyself unto me, thou who dost know my very heart and soul, why hast thou linked me with this base associate, who feeds on mischief and revels in destruction ? MEPHISTOPHELES Hast done? FAUST Save her ! or woe to thee ! The direst of curses on thee for thousands of years ! MEPHISTOPHELES I cannot loose the bands of the avenger, nor withdraw his bolts. Save her! Who was it plunged her into per- dition ? I or thou ? FAUST (looks wildly around) FAUST PART I 413 MEPHISTOPHELES Would 'st grasp the thunder ? Well for you, poor mortals, that 'tis not yours to wield ! To smite to atoms the being, however innocent, who obstructs his path, such is the tyrant's fashion of relieving himself in difficulties! FAUST Convey me thither ! She shall be free ! MEPHISTOPHELES And the danger to which thou dost expose thyself? Know, the guilt of blood, shed by thy hand, lies yet upon the town. Over the place where fell the murdered one, avenging spirits hover and watch for the returning murderer. FAUST This too from thee? The death and downfall of a world be on thee, monster! Conduct me thither, I say and set her free! MEPHISTOPHELES I will conduct thee. And what I can do, hear! Have I all power in heaven and upon earth? I'll cloud the senses of the warder, do thou possess thyself of the keys and lead her forth with human hand ! I will keep watch ! The magic steeds are waiting, I bear thee off. Thus much is in my power. FAUST Up and away! NIGHT. OPEN COUNTRY FAUST. MEPHISTOPHELES (Rushing along on black horses) FAUST What weave they yonder round the Raven stone? MEPHISTOPHELES I know not what they shape and brew. 414 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST They're soaring, swooping, bending, stooping. MEPHISTOPHELES A witches' pack. FAUST They charm, they strew. MEPHISTOPHELES On! On! DUNGEON FAUST (with a bunch of keys and a lamp before a small iron door) A fear unwonted o 'er my spirit falls ; Man 's concentrated woe o 'erwhelms me here ! She dwells immur'd within these dripping walls; Her only trespass a delusion dear ! Thou lingerest at the fatal door? Thou dread 'st to see her face once more? On! While thou dalliest, draws her death-hour near. [He seizes the lock. Singing ivithin.] My mother, the harlot, She took me and slew ! My father, the scoundrel, Hath eaten me too I My sweet little sister Hath all my bones laid, Where soft breezes whisper All in the cool shade ! Then became I a wood-bird, and sang on the spray, Fly away ! little bird, fly away ! fly away ! FAUST (opening the lock) Ah! she forebodes not that her lover's near, The clanking chains, the rustling straw, to hear. [He enters.] MARGARET (hiding her face in the bed of straw) Woe ! woe ! they come ! oh bitter 'tis to die ! FAUST PAETI 415 FAUST (softly) Hush ! hush ! be still ! I come to set thee free. MARGARET (throwing herself at his feet) If thou art human, feel my misery ! FAUST Thou wilt awake the jailer with thy cry ! [He grasps the chains to unlock them.] MARGARET (on her knees) Who, headsman, unto thee this power O'er me could give? Thou com 'st for me at midnight-hour. Be merciful, and let me live ! Is morrow's dawn not time enough? ro , [She stands up.] I'm still so young, so young And must so early die! Fair was I too, and that was my undoing. My love is now afar, he then was nigh; Torn lies the garland, the fair blossoms strew 'd. Nay, seize me not with hand so rude ! Spare me ! What harm have I e 'er done to thee ? Oh let me not in vain implore ! I ne 'er have seen thee in my life before ! FAUST Can I endure this bitter agony? MARGARET I now am at thy mercy quite. Let me my babe but suckle once again ! I fondled it the li ve-long night ; They took it from me but to give me pain, And now, they say that I my child have slain. Gladness I ne'er again shall know. Then they sing songs about me, 'tis wicked of the throng An ancient ballad endeth so; Who bade them thus apply the song? 416 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST (throwing himself on the ground) A lover at thy feet bends low, To loose the bonds of wretchedness and woe. MARGARET (throws herself beside him) Oh, let us kneel and move the saints by prayer 1 Look! look! yon stairs below, Under the threshold there, Hell's flames are all aglow! Beneath the floor, With hideous noise, The devils roar! FAUST (aloud) Gretchen ! Gretchen ! MARGARET (listening) That was my lov 'd one 's voice ! [She springs up, the chains fall off.] Where is he ? I heard him calling me. Free am I ! There 's none shall hinder me. To his neck will I fly, On his bosom will lie ! Gretchen, he called ! On yon threshold he stood ; Amidst all the howling of hell's fiery flood, The scoff and the scorn of its devilish crew, The tones of his voice, sweet and loving, I knew. FAUST >Tis I! MARGARET 'Tis thou ! say so once again ! [embracing him.] 'Tis he! 'Tis he! where 's now the torturing pain 1 ? Where are the fetters? where the dungeon's gloom? 'Tis thou ! To save me thou art come ! And I am sav'd! Already now the street I see Where the first time I caught a glimpse of thee. There to the pleasant garden shade, Where I and Martha for thy coming stay'd. FAUST PAKT I 417 FAUST (endeavoring to lead her away) Come! come away! MARGARET Oh do not haste ! I love to linger where thou stayest. [caressing him.] FAUST Ah haste ! For if thou still delayest, Our lingering we shall both deplore. MARGARET How, dearest? canst thou kiss no more! So short a time away from me, and yet, To kiss thou couldst so soon forget ! Why on thy neck so anxious do I feel When formerly a perfect heaven of bliss From thy dear looks and words would o'er me steal t As thou wouldst stifle me thou then didst kiss ! Kiss me! Or I'll kiss thee! [She embraces him.] Woe! woe! Thy lips are cold, Are dumb! Thy love where hast thou left! Who hath me of thy love bereft! [She turns away from him.] FAUST Come ! Follow me, my dearest love, be bold ! I'll cherish thee with ardor thousand-fold; I but entreat thee now to follow me ! MARGARET (turning toward him) And art thou he! and art thou really he? FAUST 'Tis I! Oh come I MARGARET Thou wilt strike off my chain, And thou wilt take me to thine arms again. How comes it that thou dost not shrink from met And dost thou know, love, whom thou wouldst set free? VOL. 1 27 418 THE GERMAN CLASSICS FAUST Come ! come ! already night begins to wane. MARGARET I sent my mother to her grave, I drown 'd my child beneath the wave. Was it not given to thee and me thee too? 'Tis thou thyself ! I scarce believe it yet. Give me thy hand ! It is no dream ! 'Tis true ! Thine own dear hand! But how is this? 'Tis wet! Quick, wipe it off ! Meseems that yet There's blood thereon. Ah God ! what hast thou done ? Put up thy sword, I beg of thee ! FAUST Oh, dearest, let the past forgotten be ! Death is in every word. MARGARET No, thou must linger here in sorrow! The graves I will describe to thee, And thou to them must see Tomorrow : The best place give to my mother, Close at her side my brother, Me at some distance lay But not too far away ! And the little one place on my right breast. Nobody else will near me lie ! To nestle beside thee so lovingly, That was a rapture, gracious and sweet! A rapture I never again shall prove ; Methinks I would force myself on thee, love, And thou dost spurn me, and back retreat Yet 'tis thyself, thy fond kind looks I see. FAUST If thou dost feel 'tis I, then come with me ! FAUST PAETI 419 MARGARET What, there? without? FAUST Yes, forth in the free air. MARGARET Ay, if the grave's without, If death lurk there I Hence to the everlasting resting-place, And not one step beyond! Thou'rt leaving me? Oh Henry ! would that I could go with thee ! FAUST Thou canst ! But will it ! Open stands the door. MARGARET I dare not go! I've naught to hope for more. What boots it to escape? They lurk for me! 'Tis wretched to beg, as I must do, And with an evil conscience thereto! 'Tis wretched, in foreign lands to stray; And me they will catch, do what I may ! FAUST With thee will I abide. MARGARET Quick ! Quick ! Save thy poor child! Keep to the path The brook along, Over the bridge To the wood beyond, To the left, where the plank is, In the pond. Seize it at once! It fain would rise, It struggles still! Save it. Oh save! FAUST Dear Gretchen, more collected be ! One little step, and thou art free ! 420 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MABGABET Were we but only past the hill! There sits my mother upon a stone My brain, alas, is cold with dread ! There sits my mother upon a stone, And to and fro she shakes her head; She winks not, she nods not, her head it droops sore ; She slept so long, she waked no more; She slept, that we might taste of bliss : Ah I those were happy times, I wis ! FAUST Since here avails nor argument nor prayer, Thee hence by force I needs must bear. MABGABET Loose me ! I will not suffer violence ! With murderous hand hold not so fast ! I have done all to please thee in the past! FAUST Day dawns I My love ! My love ! MABGABET Yes ! day draws near, The day of judgment too will soon appear ! It should have been my bridal! No one tell, That thy poor Gretchen thou hast known too well. Woe to my garland ! Its bloom is o'er! Though not at the dance We shall meet once more. The crowd doth gather, in silence it rolls ; The squares, the streets, Scarce hold the throng. The staff is broken, the death-bell tolls, They bind and seize me! I'm hurried along, To the seat of blood already I'm bound! Quivers each neck as the naked steel Quivers on mine the blow to deal The silence of the grave now broods around ! FAUST PAKTI 421 FAUST Would I had ne 'er been born ! MEPHISTOPHELES (appears without) Up! or you're lost. Vain hesitation! Babbling, quaking! My steeds are shivering, Morn is breaking. MABGARET What from the floor ascendeth like a ghost? 'Tis he ! Tis he ! Him from my presence chase ! What would he in this holy place? It is for me he cometh ! FAUST Thou shalt live! MABGARET Judgment of God! To thee my soul I give! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST) Come, come ! With her I '11 else abandon thee ! MABGARET Father, I'm thine! Do thou deliver me! Ye angels ! Ye angelic hosts ! descend, Encamp around to guard me and defend! Henry! I shudder now to look on thee! MEPHISTOPHELES She now is judged! VOICES (from above) Is saved! MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST) Come thou with me ! [vanishes with FAUST.] VOICE (from within, dying away) Henry ! Henry ! END OF PART I. FAUST SELECTIONS FROM PART II (1832) ACT THE FIRST A PLEASING LANDSCAPE FAUST, reclining upon flowery turf, restless, seeking sleep TWILIGHT Circle of spirits, hovering, flit around; Graceful, tiny forms. ABIEL Song, accompanied by JEoiian harps WHEN, in vernal showers descending, Blossoms gently veil the earth, When the fields' green wealth, up-tending, Gleams on all of mortal birth; Tiny elves, where help availeth, Large of heart, there fly apace; Pity they whom grief assaileth, Be he holy, be he base. Ye round this head on airy wing careering, Attend, in noble Elfin guise appearing ; Assuage the cruel strife that rends his heart, The burning shaft remove of keen remorse, From rankling horror cleanse his inmost part : Four are the pauses of the nightly course ; Them, without rest, fill up with kindly art. And first his head upon cool pillow lay, Then bathe ye him in dew from Lethe's stream; His limbs, cramp-stiff en 'd, will more freely play, If sleep-refreshed he wait morn's wakening beam. Perform the noblest Elfin-rite, Eestore ye him to the holy light! [422] FAUST PART II 423 CHORUS (singly, two or more, alternately and together) Softly when warm gales are stealing O'er the green-environed ground, Twilight sheddeth all-concealing Mists and balmy odors round: Whispers low sweet peace to mortals, Rocks the heart to childlike rest, And of day-light shuts the portals To these eyes, with care oppressed. Night hath now descended darkling, Holy star is linked to star; Sovereign fires, or faintly sparkling, Glitter near and shine afar; Glitter here lake-mirror 'd, yonder Shine adown the clear night sky; Sealing bliss of perfect slumber, Reigns the moon's full majesty. Now the hours are cancelled; sorrow, Happiness, have passed away: Whole thou shalt be on the morrow ! Feel it ! Trust the new-born day ! Swell the hills, green grow the valleys, In the dusk ere breaks the morn ; And in silvery wavelets dallies, With the wind, the ripening corn. Cherish hope, let naught appall thee ! Mark the East, with splendor dyed! Slight the fetters that enthrall thee ; Fling the shell of sleep aside ! Gird thee for the high endeavor ; Shun the crowd's ignoble ease! Fails the noble spirit never, Wise to think, and prompt to seize. [A tremendous tumult announces the uprising of the Sun.} ABIEL Hark, the horal tempest nears, 424 THE GEKMAN CLASSICS Sounding but for spirit ears, Lo ! the new-born day appears ; Clang the rocky portals, climb Phrebus' wheels with thund'rous chime: Breaks with tuneful noise the light! Blare of trumpet, clarion sounding, Eye-sight dazing, ear astounding! Hear not the unheard; take flight! Into petaled blossoms glide Deeper, deeper, still to bide, In the clefts, 'neath thickets! ye, If it strike you, deaf will be. FAUST Life's pulses reawakened freshly bound, The mild ethereal twilight fain to greet. Thou, Earth, this night wast also constant found, And, newly-quickened, breathing at my feet, Beginnest now to gird me with delight; A strong resolve dost rouse, with noble heat Aye to press on to being's sovereign height. The world in glimmering dawn still folded lies; With thousand-voiced life the woods resound; Mist-wreaths the valley shroud ; yet from the skies Sinks heaven 's clear radiance to the depths profound ; And bough and branch from dewy chasms rise, Where they had drooped erewhile in slumber furled; Earth is enamelled with unnumber'd dyes, Leaflet and flower with dew-drops are impearled; Around me everywhere is paradise. Gaze now aloft ! Each mountain's giant height The solemn hour announces, herald-wise ; They early may enjoy the eternal light, To us below which later finds its way. Now are the Alpine slopes and valleys dight With the clear radiance of the new-born day, Which, downward, step by step, steals on apace. FAUST PAKT II 425 It blazes forth, and, blinded by the ray, With aching eyes, alas ! I veil my face. So when a hope, the heart hath long held fast, Trustful, still striving toward its highest goal, Fulfilment's portals open finds at last; Sudden from those eternal depths doth roll An over-powering flame; we stand aghast! The torch of li f e to kindle we were fain ; A fire-sea, what a fire! doth round us close; Love is it? Is it hate? with joy and pain, In alternation vast, that round us glows? So that to earth we turn our wistful gaze, In childhood's veil to shroud us once again! So let the sun behind me pour its rays ! The cataract, through rocky cleft that roars, I view, with growing rapture and amaze. From fall to fall, with eddying shock, it pours, In thousand torrents to the depths below, Aloft in air up-tossing showers of spray. But see, in splendor bursting from the storm, Arches itself the many-colored bow, And ever-changeful, yet continuous form, Now drawn distinctly, melting now away, Diffusing dewy coolness all around! Man's efforts there are glassed, his toil and strife; Reflect, more true the emblem will be found : This bright reflected glory pictures life! IMPERIAL PALACE. THRONE-ROOM Council of State, in expectation of the EMPEROR TRUMPETS Enter courtiers of every grade, splendidly attired. The Emperor ascends the throne; to the right the ASTROLOGER. EMPEROR I greet you, trusty friends and dear, Assembled thus from far and wide! 426 THE GERMAN CLASSICS I see the wise man at my side, But wherefore is the fool not here? PAGE Entangled in thy mantle 's flow. He tripped upon the stair below; The mass of fat they bare away, If dead or drunken who can say? SECOND PAGE Forthwith another comes apace, With wondrous speed to take his place ; Costly, yet so grotesque his gear, All start amazed as he draws near. Crosswise the guards before his face, Entrance to bar, their halberds hold Yet there he is, the fool so bold. MEPHISTOPHELES (kneeling before the throne) What is accursed and gladly hailed f What is desired and chased away? What is upbraided and assailed? What wins protection every day? Whom darest thou not summon here ? Whose name doth plaudits still command? What to thy throne now draweth near? What from this place itself hath banned ? EMPEROB For this time thou thy words may'st spare! This is no place for riddles, friend; They are these gentlemen 's affair. Solve them! an ear I'll gladly lend. My old fool's gone, far, far away, I fear; Take thou his place, come, stand beside me here ! [MEPHISTOPHELES ascends and places himself at the EMPEROR'S left.] Murmur of the Crowd Here's a new fool for plague anew! Whence cometh he! How passed he through? FAUST PART II 427 The old one fell he squander 'd hath. He was a tub now 'tis a lath. EMPEROR So now, my friends, beloved and leal, Be welcome all, from near and far ! Ye meet 'neath an auspicious star ; For us above are written joy and weal But tell me wherefore, on this day, When we all care would cast away, And don the masker's quaint array, And naught desire but to enjoy, Should we with state affairs ourselves annoy? But if ye think it so must be indeed, Why, well and good, let us forthwith proceed ! CHANCELLOR The highest virtue circles halo-wise Our Cesar's brow; virtue, which from the throne, He validly can exercise alone: Justice! What all men love and prize, What all demand, desire, and sorely want, It lies with him, this to the folk to grant. But ah ! what help can intellect command, Goodness of heart, or willingness of hand, When fever saps the state with deadly power, And mischief breedeth mischief, hour by hour! To him who downward from this height supreme Views the wide realm, 'tis like a troubled dream, Where the deformed deformity o'ersways, Where lawlessness, through law, the tyrant plays, And error's ample world itself displays. One steals a woman, one a steer, Lights from the altar, chalice, cross, Boasts of his deed full many a year, Unscathed in body, without harm or loss. Now to the hall accusers throng; On cushioned throne the judge presides; 428 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Surging meanwhile in eddying tides, Confusion waxes fierce and strong. He may exalt in crime and shame, Who on accomplices depends; Guilty ! the verdict they proclaim, When Innocence her cause defends. So will the world succumb to ill, And what is worthy perish quite ; How then may grow the sense which still Instructs us to discern the right! E 'en the right-minded man, in time, To briber and to flatterer yields; The judge, who cannot punish crime, Joins with the culprit whom he shields. I've painted black, yet fain had been A veil to draw before the scene. * Pause Measures must needs be taken; when All injure or are injured, then E'en Majesty becomes a prey. FIELD MARSHAL In these wild days what tumults reign ! Each smitten is and smites again, Deaf to command, will none obey. The burgher, safe behind his wall, Within his rocky nest, the knight, Against us have conspired, and all Firmly to hold their own unite. Impatient is the hireling now, With vehemence he claims his due ; And did we owe him naught, I trow, Off he would run, nor bid adieu. Who thwarts what fondly all expect, He hath disturbed a hornet's nest; The empire which they should protect, It lieth plundered and oppress 'd. FAUST PAKT n 429 Their furious rage may none restrain ; Already half the world's undone; Abroad there still are kings who reign None thinks 'tis his concern, not one. * TREASURES Who will depend upon allies! For us their promised subsidies Like conduit-water, will not flow. Say, Sire, through your dominions vast To whom hath now possession passed! Some upstart, wheresoe'er we go, Keeps house, and independent reigns. We must look on, he holds his own ; So many rights away we've thrown, That for ourselves no right remains. On so-called parties in the state There's no reliance, now-a-days; They may deal out or blame or praise, Indifferent are love and hate. The Ghibelline as well as Guelph Retire, that they may live at ease ! Who helps his neighbor now? Himself Each hath enough to do to please. Barred are the golden gates ; while each Scrapes, snatches, gathers all within his reach Empty, meanwhile, our chest remains. STEWARD What worry must I, also, bear ! Our aim each day is still to spare And more each day we need ; my pains, Daily renewed, are never o'er. The cooks lack nothing; deer, wild-boar, Stags, hares, fowls, turkeys, ducks and geese, Tribute in kind, sure payment, these Come fairly in, and none complains. But now at last wine fails ; and if of yore Up-piled upon the cellar-floor, 430 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Cask rose on cask, a goodly store, From the best slopes and vintage; now The swilling of our lords, I trow, Unceasing, drains the very lees. E'en the Town-council must give out Its liquor; bowls and cups they seize, And 'neath the table lies the drunken rout. Now must I pay, whate 'er betides ; Me the Jew spares not; he provides Anticipation-bonds which feed Each year on that which must succeed ; The swine are never fattened now ; Pawned is the pillow or the bed, And to the table comes fore-eaten bread. EMPEEOB (after some reflection, to MEPHISTOPHELES) Say, fool, another grievance knowest thou? MEPHISTOPHELES I, nowise. On this circling pomp to gaze, On thee and thine ! There can reliance fail Where majesty resistless sways, And ready power makes foemen quail? Where loyal will, through reason strong, And prowess, manifold, unite, What could together join for wrong, For darkness, where such stars give light? Murmur of the Crowd He is a knave he comprehends He lies while lying serves his ends Full well I know what lurks behind What next? Some scheme is in the wind! MEPHISTOPHELES Where is not something wanting here on earth ? Here this, there that : of gold is here the dearth. It cannot from the floor be scrap 'd, 'tis true; But what lies deepest wisdom brings to view. FAUST PAKT n 431 In mountain-veins, walls underground, Is gold, both coined and uncoined, to be found. And if ye ask me, bring it forth who can? Spirit- and nature-power of gifted man. CHANCELLOR Nature and spirit Christians ne'er should hear Such words, with peril fraught and fear. These words doom atheists to the fire. Nature is sin, spirit is devil ; they, Between them, doubt beget, their progeny, Hermaphrodite, mis-shapen, dire. Not so with us! Within our Caesar's land Two orders have arisen, two alone, Who worthily support his ancient throne: Clergy and knights, who fearless stand, Bulwarks 'gainst every storm, and they Take church and state as their 'appropriate pay. Through lawless men, the vulgar herd To opposition have of late been stirred; The heretics these are, the wizards, who The city ruin and the country too. With thy bold jests, to this high sphere, Such miscreants wilt smuggle in ; Hearts reprobate to you are dear; They to the fool are near of kin. MEPHISTOPHELES Herein your learned men I recognize! What you touch not, miles distant from you lies; What you grasp not, is naught in sooth to you ; What you count not, cannot, you deem, be true; What you weigh not, that hath for you no weight; What you coin not, you're sure is counterfeit. EMPEROE Therewith our needs are not one whit the less. What meanest thou with this thy Lent-address! I'm tired of this eternal If and How. 'Tis gold we lack; so good, procure it thou! 432 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES I'll furnish more, ay, more than all you ask. Though light it seems, not easy is the task. There lies the gold, but to procure it thence, That is the art : who knoweth to commence ? Only consider, in those days of terror, When human floods swamped land and folk together, How every one, how great soe'er his fear, All that he treasured most, hid there or here ; So was it 'neath the mighty Roman's sway, So on till yesterday, ay, till today : That all beneath the soil still buried lies The soil is Caesar's, his shall be the prize. TREASURES Now for a fool he speaketh not amiss ; Our Caesar's ancient right, in sooth, was this. CHANCELLOR Satan for you spreads golden snares ; 'tis clear, Something not right or pious worketh here. STEWARD To us at court if welcome gifts he bring, A little wrong is no such serious thing. FIELD MARSHAL Shrewd is the fool, he bids what all desire ; The soldier, whence it comes, will not inquire. MEPHISTOPHELES You think yourselves, perchance, deceived by me ; Ask the Astrologer! This man is he! Circle round circle, hour and house, he knows. Then tell us, how the heavenly aspect shows. Murmur of the Crowd Two rascals each to other known Phantast and fool so near the throne The old, old song, now trite with age The fool still prompts while speaks the sage.- FAUST PAKT H 433 ASTROLOGER (speaks, MEPHISTOPHELES prompts) The sun himself is purest gold ; for pay And favor serves the herald, Mercury; Dame Venus hath bewitched you from above, Early and late, she looks on you with love ; Ohaste Luna 's humor varies hour by hour ; Mars, though he strike not, threats you with his power, And Jupiter is still the fairest star; Saturn is great, small to the eye and far ; As metal him we slightly venerate, Little in worth, though ponderous in weight. Now when with Sol fair Luna doth unite. Silver with gold, cheerful the world and bright ! Then easy 'tis to gain whate 'er one seeks ; Parks, gardens, palaces, and rosy cheeks ; These things procures this highly learned man. He can accomplish what none other can. EMPEROR Double, methinks, his accents ring, And yet they no conviction bring. Murmur Of what avail ! a worn-out tale Calendery and chemistry I the false word full oft have heard And as of yore we're hoax'd once more. MEPHISTOPHELES The grand discovery they misprize, As, in amaze, they stand around; One prates of gnomes and sorceries, Another of the sable hound. What matters it, though witlings rail, Though one his suit 'gainst witchcraft press, If his sole tingle none the less, If his sure footing also fail! Ye of all swaying Nature feel The secret working, never-ending, VOL. 1 28 434 THE GERMAN CLASSICS And, from her lowest depths up-tending, E'en now her living trace doth steal. If sudden cramps your limbs surprise, If all uncanny seem the spot There dig and delve, but dally not ! There lies the fiddler, there the treasure lies ! Murmur Like lead it lies my foot about Cramp 'd is my arm 'tis only gout Twitchings I have in my great toe Down all my back strange pains I know Such indications make it clear That sumless treasuries are here. EMPEROB To work the time for flight is past. Put to the test your frothy lies! These treasures bring before our eyes I Sceptre and sword aside I'll cast, And with these royal hands, indeed, If thou lie not, to work proceed. The, if thou lie, I'll send to hell! MEPHISTOPHELES Thither to find the way I know full well ! Yet can I not enough declare, What wealth unown 'd lies waiting everywhere : The countryman, who ploughs the land, Gold-crocks upturneth with the mould; Nitre he seeks in lime-walls old, And findeth, in his meagre hand, Scared, yet rejoiced, rouleaus of gold. How many a vault upblown must be, Into what clefts, what shafts, must he Who doth of hidden treasure know, Descend, to reach the world below ! In cellars vast, impervious made, Goblets of gold he sees displayed, Dishes and plates, row after row ; FAUST PAKT H 435 There beakers, rich with rubies, stand ; And would he use them, close at hand Well stored the ancient moisture lies ; Yet would ye him who knoweth, trust? The staves long since have turned to dust, A tartar cask their place supplies ! Not gold alone and jewels rare, Essence of noblest wines are there, In night and horror veiled. The wise, Unwearied here pursues his quest. To search by day, that were a jest ; 'Tis darkness that doth harbor mysteries. EMPEROB What can the dark avail ? Look thou to that ! If aught have worth, it cometh to the light. Who can detect the rogue at dead of night? Black are the cows, and gray is every cat. These pots of heavy gold, if they be there Come, drive thy plough, upturn them with thy share ! MEPHISTOPHELES Take spade and hoe thyself; dig on Great shalt thou be through peasant toil A herd of golden calves anon Themselves shall tear from out the soil; Then straight, with rapture newly born, Thyself thou canst, thy sweet-heart wilt adorn. A sparkling gem, lustrous, of varied dye, Beauty exalts as well as majesty. EMPEROB To work, to work! How long wilt linger? MEPHISTOPHELES Sire, Relax, I pray, such vehement desire! First let us see the motley, joyous show ! A mind distraught conducts not to the goal. First must we calmness win through self-control, 436 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Through things above deserve what lies below. Who seeks for goodness, must himself be good; Who seeks for joy, must moderate his blood; Who wine desires, the luscious grape must press ; Who craveth miracles, more faith possess. EMPEBOE So be the interval in gladness spent! Ash- Wednesday cometh, to our heart's content. Meanwhile we '11 solemnize, whate 'er befall, More merrily the joyous Carnival. [Trumpets. Exeunt.] MEPHISTOPHELES That merit and success are link'd together, This to your fools occurreth never; Could they appropriate the wise man's stone, That, not the wise man, they would prize alone. ACT THE SECOND HIGH-VAULTED, NARROW GOTHIC CHAMBER, FORMERLY FAUST'S, UNALTERED MEPHISTOPHELES (stepping from behind a curtain. While he raises it and looks back, FAUST is seen, stretched upon an old-fashioned bed) Lie there, ill-starred one ! In love 's chain, Full hard to loose, he captive lies ! Not soon his senses will regain Whom Helena doth paralyze. (Looking round) Above, around, on every side I gaze, uninjured all remains: Dimmer, methinks, appear the color 'd panes, The spiders' webs are multiplied, Yellow the paper, and the ink is dry; Yet in its place each thing I find; FAUST PAKT II 437 And here the very pen doth lie, Wherewith himself Faust to the Devil signed, Yea, quite dried up, and deeper in the bore, The drop of blood, I lured from him of yore O'er joyed to own such specimen unique Were he who objects rare is fain to seek ; Here on its hook hangs still the old fur cloak, Me it remindeth of that merry joke, When to the boy I precepts gave, for truth, Whereon, perchance, he's feeding now, as youth. The wish comes over me, with thee allied, Enveloped in thy worn and rugged folds, Once more to swell with the professor's pride I How quite infallible himself he holds; This feeling to obtain your savants know ; The devil parted with it long ago. [He shakes the fur cloak which he has taken down; crickets, moths, and chafers fly out.] CHOBUS OF INSECTS We welcome thy coming, Our patron of yore ! We 're dancing and humming, And know thee once more. Us singly, in silence, Hast planted, and lo ! By thousands, oh Father, We dance to and fro. The rogue hides discreetly The bosom within; We looseskins fly rather Forth from the fur skin. MEPHISTOPHELES O'er joyed I am my progeny to know! We're sure to reap in time, if we but sow. I shake the old fur-mantle as before, And here and there out flutters one or more. Above, around, hasten, beloved elves, 438 THE GERMAN CLASSICS In hundred thousand nooks to hide yourselves! 'Mid boxes there of by-gone time, Here in these age-embrowned scrolls, In broken potsherds, foul with grime, In yonder skulls' now eyeless holes! Amid such rotten, mouldering life, Must foolish whims for aye be rife. [Slips into the fur mantle.] Come shroud my shoulders as of yore ! Today I'm principal once more; But useless 'tis, to bear the name: Where are the folk to recognize my claim? [He pulls the bell, which emits a shrill penetrating sound, at which the halls shake and the doors spring open.] FAMULUS (tottering up the long dark passage) What a clamor ! What a quaking ! Stairs are rocking, walls are shaking: Through the windows' quivering sheen, Are the stormful lightnings seen; Springs the ceiling, thence, below, Lime and mortar rattling flow: And, though bolted fast, the door Is undone by magic power! There, in Faust's old fleece bedight, Stands a giant, dreadful sight! At his glance, his beck, at me! I could sink upon my knee. Shall I fly, or shall I stay? What will be my fate today ! MEPHISTOPHELES Come hither, friend! Your name is NicodemusT FAMULUS Most honor 'd Sir, such is my name. Oremus! MEPHISTOPHELES That we'll omit! FAUST PART n 439 FAMULUS joy, me you do not forget. MEPHISTOPHELES I know it well : old, and a student yet ; My mossy friend, even a learned man Still studies on, because naught else he can: Thus a card-house each builds of medium height; The greatest spirit fails to build it quite. Your master, though, that title well may claim The noble Doctor Wagner, known to fame, First in the learned world ! 'Tis he, they say, Who holds that world together; every day Of wisdom he augments the store! Who crave omniscience, evermore In crowds upon his teaching wait ; He from the rostrum shines alone; The keys doth like Saint Peter own, And doth of Hell and Heaven ope the gate; As before all he glows and sparkles, No fame, no glory but grows dim, Even the name of Faustus darkles! Inventor there is none like him. FAMULUS Pardon, most honor 'd Sir, excuse me, pray If I presume your utterance to gainsay This bears not on the question any way ; A modest mind is his allotted share. The disappearance, unexplained as yet, Of the great man, his mind doth sorely fret; Comfort from his return and health are still his prayer. The chamber, as in Doctor Faustus' day, Maintains, untouched, its former state, And for its ancient lord doth wait. Venture therein I scarcely may. What now the aspect of the stars? Awe-struck the very walls appear; The door-posts quivered, sprang the bars Else you yourself could not have entered here. 440 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES Where then bestowed himself hath he? Lead me to him! bring him to me! FAMULUS Alas ! Too strict his prohibition, Scarce dare I, without his permission. Months, on his mighty work intent, Hath he, in strict seclusion spent. Most dainty 'mong your men of books, Like charcoal-burner now he looks, With face begrimed from ear to nose; His eyes are blear 'd while fire he blows; Thus for the crisis still he longs; His music is the clang of tongs. MEPHISTOPHELES Admittance unto me deny? To hasten his success, the man am I. [Exit FAMULUS. MEPHISTOPHELES seats himself with a solemn air.] Scarce have I ta'en my post, when lo! Stirs from behind a guest, whom well I know ; Of the most recent school, this time, is he, And quite unbounded will his daring be. BACCALAUKEUS (storming along the passage) Open find I door and gate ! Hope at last springs up elate, That the living shall no more Corpse-like rot, as heretofore, And, while breathing living breath, Waste and moulder as in death. Here partition, screen, and wall Are sinking, bowing to their fall, And, unless we soon retreat, Wreck and ruin us will greet. Me, though bold, nor soon afraid, To advance shall none persuade. FAUST PAKT H 441 What shall I experience next? Years ago, when sore perplexed, Came I not a freshman here, Full of anxious doubt and fear, On these gray-beards then relied, By their talk was edified? What from musty tomes they drew, They lied to me ; the things they knew Believed they not; with falsehood rife, Themselves and me they robbed of life. How? Yonder is the murky glare, There's one still sitting in the Chair Drawing near I wonder more Just as him I left of yore, There he sits, in furry gown, Wrapped in shaggy fleece, the brown ! Then he clever seemed, indeed, Him as yet I could not read; Naught will it avail today; So have at him, straight-away ! If Lethe 's murky flood not yet hath passed, Old Sir, through your bald pate, that sideways bends, The scholar recognize, who hither wends, Outgrown your academic rods at last. The same I find you, as of yore ; But I am now the same no more. MEPHISTOPHELES Glad am I that I've rung you here. I prized you then not slightingly ; In grub and chrysalis appear The future brilliant butterfly. A childish pleasure then you drew From collar, lace, and curls. A queue You probably have never worn? Now to a crop I see you shorn. All resolute and bold your air But from the absolute forbear ! 442 THE GERMAN CLASSICS BACCALAUREUS "We're in the ancient place, mine ancient Sir, But think upon time's onward flow, And words of double-meaning spare! Quite otherwise we hearken now. You fooled the simple, honest youth; It cost but little art in sooth, To do what none today will dare. MEPHISTOPHELES If to the young the naked truth one speaks, It pleases in no wise the yellow beaks ; But afterward, when in their turn On their own skin the painful truth they learn, They think, forsooth, from their own head it came ; " The master was a fool," they straight proclaim. BACCALAUREUS A rogue perchance ! For where 's the teacher found Who to our face, direct, will Truth expound! Children to edify, each knows the way, To add or to subtract, now grave, now gay. MEPHISTOPHELES For learning there 's in very truth a time ; For teaching, I perceive, you now are prime. While a few suns and many moons have waned, A rich experience you have doubtless gained! BACCALAUREUS Experience! Froth and scum alone, Not with the mind of equal birth ! Confess! what men have always known, As knowledge now is nothing worth. MEPHISTOPHELES (after a pause) I long have thought myself a fool ; Now shallow to myself I seem, and dull. FAUST PAET II 443 BACCALAUREUS That pleases me! Like reason that doth sound; The first old man of sense I yet have found ! MEPHISTOPHELES I sought for hidden treasures, genuine gold And naught but hideous ashes forth I bore ! BACCALAUREUS Confess that pate of yours, though bare and old, Than yonder hollow skull is worth no more ! MEPHISTOPHELES (good-naturedly) Thou know'st not, friend, how rude is thy reply. BACCALAUREUS In German to be courteous is to lie. MEPHISTOPHELES (still moving his wheel-chair ever nearer to the proscenium, to the pit) Up here I am bereft of light and air; I perhaps shall find a refuge with you there! BACCALAUREUS When at their worst, that men would something be, When they are naught, presumptuous seems to me. Man's life is in the blood, and where, in sooth, Pulses the blood so strongly as in youth? That's living blood, which with fresh vigor rife, The newer life createth out of life. There all is movement, something there is done ; Falleth the weak, the able presses on! While half the world we 'neath our sway have brought, What have ye done? Slept, nodded, dream 'd, and thought, Plan after plan rejected; nothing won. Age is, in sooth, a fever cold, With frost of whims and peevish need : When more than thirty years are told, As good as dead one is indeed : You it were best, methinks, betimes to slay. 444 THE GERMAN CLASSICS MEPHISTOPHELES The devil here has nothing more to say. BACCALAUREUS Save through my will, no devil dares to be. MEPHISTOPHELES (aside) The devil now prepares a fall for thee ! BACCALAUREUS The noblest mission this of youth's estate. The world was not, till it I did create ; The radiant Sun I led from out the sea ; Her changeful course the Moon began with me ; The Day arrayed herself my steps to meet, The Earth grew green, and blossom 'd me to greet: At my command, upon yon primal Night, The starry hosts unveiled their glorious light. Who, beside me, the galling chains unbound, Which cramping thought had cast your spirits round? But I am free, as speaks my spirit-voice, My inward light I follow, and rejoice ; Swift I advance, enraptur'd, void of fear, Brightness before me, darkness in the rear. [Exit.] MEPHISTOPHELES Go, in thy pride, Original, thy way ! True insight would, in truth, thy spirit grieve 1 What wise or stupid thoughts can man conceive, Unponder'd in the ages passed away? Yet we for him need no misgiving have ; Changed will he be, when a few years are past ; Howe'er absurdly may the must behave, Nathless it yields a wine at last. (To the younger part of the audience, who do not applaud.) Though to my words you're somewhat cold, Good children, me you don't offend; Reflect! The devil, he is old; Grow old then, him to comprehend ! FAUST PAET H 445 LABORATORY (After the fashion of the middle ages; cumbrous, useless apparatus, for fantastic purposes) WAGNER (at the furnace) Soundeth the bell, the fearful clang Thrills through these sooty walls ; no more Upon fulfilment waits the pang Of hope or fear ; suspense is o 'er ; The darknesses begin to clear, Within the inmost phial glows Radiance, like living coal, that throws, As from a splendid carbuncle, its rays ; Athwart the gloom its lightning plays. A pure white lustre doth appear; may I never lose it more ! My God! what rattles at the door? MEPHISTOPHELES (entering) Welcome ! As friend I enter here. WAGNER Hail to the star that rules the hour ! (Softly) On breath and utterance let a ban be laid ! Soon will be consummate a work of power. MEPHISTOPHELES (in a whisper) What is it, then! WAGNER A man is being made. MEPHISTOPHELES A man? and pray what loving pair Have in your smoke-hole their abode? WAGNER Nay ! Heaven forbid ! As nonsense we declare The ancient procreative mode; 446 THE GERMAN CLASSICS The tender point, life 's spring, the gentle strength That took and gave, that from within hath pressed, And seized, intent itself to manifest, The nearest first, the more remote at length, This from its dignity is now dethron'd ! The brute indeed may take delight therein, But man, by whom such mighty gifts are ownM, Must have a purer, higher origin. (He turns to the furnace) It flashes, see! Now may we trustful hold, That if, of substances a hundred-fold, Through mixture, for on mixture it depends The human substance duly we compose, And then in a retort enclose, And cohobate ; in still repose The work is perfected, our labor ends. (Again turning to the furnace) It forms ! More clear the substance shows ! Stronger, more strong, conviction grows ! What Nature's mystery we once did style, That now to test, our reason tries, And what she organized erewhile, We now are fain to crystallize. MEPHISTOPHELES Who lives, doth much experience glean; By naught in this world will he be surprised; Already in my travel-years I've seen Full many a race of mortals crystallized. WAGNEB (still gazing intently on the phial) It mounts, it glows, and doth together run, One moment, and the work is done ! As mad, a grand design at first is view'd; But we henceforth may laugh at fate, And so a brain, with thinking-power embued, Henceforth your living thinker will create. FAUST PAET II 447 (Surveying the phial with rapture) The glass resounds, with gracious power possessed ; It dims, grows clear; living it needs must be ! And now in form of beauty dressed, A dainty mannikin I see. What more can we desire, what more mankind? Unveiled is now what hidden was of late ; Give ear unto this sound, and you will find, A voice it will become, articulate. HOMUNCULUS (in the phial, to WAGNER) Now, Fatherkin, how goes it? 'Twas no jest! Come, let me to thy heart be fondly pressed Lest the glass break, less tight be thine embrace This is the property of things : the All Scarcely suffices for the natural; The artificial needs a bounded space. (To MEPHISTOPHELES) But thou, Sir Cousin, Rogue, art thou too here? At the right moment ! Thee I thank. 'Tis clear To us a happy fortune leadeth thee ; While I exist, still must I active be, And to the work forthwith myself would gird ; Thou'rt skill 'd the way to shorten. WAGNER Just one word ! I oft have been ashamed that knowledge failed, When old and young with problems me assailed. For instance : no one yet could comprehend, How soul and body so completely blend, Together hold, as ne'er to part, while they Torment each other through the live-long day. So then MEPHISTOPHELES Forbear ! The problem solve for me, Why man and wife so wretchedly agree? 448 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Upon this point, my friend, thou 'It ne 'er be clear ; The mannikin wants work, he'll find it here. HOMUNCULUS What's to be done? MEPHISTOPHELES (pointing to a side door) Yonder thy gifts display! WAGNER (sttil gazing into the phial) A very lovely boy, I needs must say ! (The side door opens; FAUST is seen stretched upon a couch) HOMUNCULUS (amazed) Momentous ! (The phial slips from WAGNER'S hands, hovers over FAUST, and sheds a light upon him) Girt with beauty ! Water clear In the thick grove ; fair women, who undress ; Most lovely creatures ! grows their loveliness : But o 'er the rest one shines without a peer, As if from heroes, nay from gods she came ; In the transparent sheen her foot she laves ; The tender life-fire of her noble frame She cools in yielding crystal of the waves. Of swiftly moving wings what sudden noise? What plash, what plunge the liquid glass destroys ? The maidens fly, alarmed; alone, the queen, With calm composure gazes on the scene; With womanly and proud delight, she sees The prince of swans press fondly to her knees, Persistent, tame; familiar now he grows. But suddenly up-floats a misty shroud, And with thick-woven veil doth over-cloud The loveliest of all lovely shows. MEPHISTOPHELES Why thou in sooth canst everything relate! Small as thou art, as phantast thou art great. I can see nothing FAUST PAET H 449 HOMUNCULUS I believe it. Thou, Bred in the north, in the dark ages, how, In whirl of priesthood and knight-errantry, Have for such sights thy vision free ! In darkness only thou'rt at home. (Looking round) Ye brown, repulsive blocks of stone, Arch-pointed, low, with mould overgrown! Should he awake, new care were bred, He on the spot would straight be dead. Wood-fountains, swans, fair nymphs undressed, Such was his dream, presageful, rare; In place like this how could he rest, Which I, of easy mood, scarce bear ! Away with him ! MEPHISTOPHELES I like your plan, proceed! HOMUNCULUS Command the warrior to the fight, The maiden to the dancers lead! They're satisfied, and all is right. E 'en now a thought occurs, most bright ; 'Tis classical Walpurgis-night Most fortunate ! It suits his bent, So bring him straightway to his element! MEPHISTOPHELES Of such I ne 'er have heard, I frankly own. HOMUNCULUS Upon your ear indeed how should it fall? Only romantic ghosts to you are known; Your genuine ghost is also classical. MEPHISTOPHELES But whitherward to travel are we fain? Your antique colleagues are against my grain. VOL. 1 29 450 THE GEEMAN CLASSICS HOMUNCULUS North-westward, Satan, lies thy pleasure-ground ; But, this time, we to the south-east are bound. An ample vale Peneios floweth through, 'Mid bush and tree its curving shores it laves ; The plain extendeth to the mountain caves, Above it lies Pharsalus, old and new. MEPHISTOPHELES Alas ! Forbear ! For ever be eschewed Those wars of tyranny and servitude ! I'm bored with them: for they, as soon as done, Straight recommence; and no one calls to mind That he in sooth is only played upon By Asmodeus, who still lurks behind. They battle, so 'tis said, for freedom's rights More clearly seen, 'tis slave 'gainst slave who fights. HOMUNCULTJS Leave we to men their nature, quarrel-prone ! Each must defend himself, as best he can, From boyhood up ; so he becomes a man. The question here is, how to cure this one! (Pointing to FAUST) Hast thou a means, here let it tested be ; Canst thou do naught, then leave the task to me. MEPHISTOPHELES Full many a Brocken-piece I might essay, But bolts of heathendom foreclose the way. The Grecian folk were ne 'er worth much, 'tis true, Yet with the senses' play they dazzle you; To cheerful sins the human heart they lure, While ours are reckoned gloomy and obscure. And now what next? HOMUNCULUS Of old thou wert not shy ; And if I name Thessalian witches, why, I something shall have said, of that I'm sure. FAUST PAET H 451 MEPHISTOPHELES (lustfully) Thessalian witches well ! the people they Concerning whom I often have inquired. Night after night, indeed, with them to stay, That were an ordeal not to be desired; But for a trial trip HOMUNCULUS The mantle there Eeach hither, wrap it round the knight! As heretofore, the rag will bear Both him and thee; the way I'll light. WAGNER (alarmed) And IT HOMUNCULUS At home thou wilt remain, Thee most important work doth there detain ; The ancient scrolls unfolding cull Life's elements, as taught by rule, And each with other then combine with care ; Upon the What, more on the How, reflect! Meanwhile as through a piece of world I fare, I may the dot upon the 1 1 1 ' ' detect. Then will the mighty aim accomplish 'd be; Such high reward deserves such striving; wealth, Honor and glory, lengthen 'd life, sound health, Knowledge withal and virtue possibly. Farewell ! WAGNEB Farewell ! That grieves my heart full sore ! I fear indeed I ne 'er shall see thee more. MEPHISTOPHELES Now to Peneios forth we wend ! We must not slight our cousin's aid. (To the spectators) At last, in sooth, we all depend On creatures we ourselves have made. 452 THE GERMAN CLASSICS ACT THE THIRD BEFORE THE PALACE OF MENELAUS IN SPARTA Enter HELENA, with a chorus of captive Trojan women PENTHALIS, leader of the chorus HELENA The much admired and much upbraided, Helena, From yonder strand I come, where erst we disembark 'd, Still giddy from the roll of ocean's billowy surge, Which, through Poseidon's favor and through Euros' might, On lofty crested backs hither hath wafted us, From Phrygia's open field, to our ancestral bays. Yonder King Menelaus, glad of his return, With his brave men of war, rejoices on the beach. But oh, thou lofty mansion, bid me welcome home, Thou, near the steep decline, which Tyndareus, my sire, From Pallas' hill returning, here hath builded up; Which also was adorned beyond all Sparta's homes, What time with Clytemnestra, sister-like, I grew, With Castor, Pollux, too, playing in joyous sport. Wings of yon brazen portals, you I also hail! Through you, ye guest-inviting, hospitable gates, Hath Menelaus once, from many princes chosen, Shone radiant on my sight, in nuptial sort arrayed. Expand to me once more, that I the king's behest May faithfully discharge, as doth the spouse beseem. Let me within, and all henceforth behind remain, That, charged with doom, till now darkly hath round me stormed ! For since, by care untroubled, I these sites forsook, Seeking Cythera's fane, as sacred wont enjoined, And by the spoiler there was seized, the Phrygian, Happened have many things, whereof men far and wide Are fain to tell, but which not fain to hear is he Of whom the tale, expanding, hath to fable grown. FAUST PAKT II 453 CHORUS Disparage not, oh glorious dame, Honor 'd possession of highest estate! For sole unto thee is the greatest boon given; The fame of beauty that all over-towers ! The hero's name before him resounds, So strides he with pride ; Nathless at once the stubbornest yields To beauty, the presence which all things subdues. HELENA Enough ! I with my spouse, ship-borne, have hither sped, And to his city now by him before am sent. But what the thought he harbors, that I cannot guess. Come I as consort hither? Come I as a queen? Come I as victim for the prince's bitter pangs, And for the evils dire, long suffered by the Greeks? Conquered I am; but whether captive, know I not: For the Immortal Powers fortune and fame for me Have doomed ambiguous; direful ministers that wait On beauty's form, who even on this threshold here, With dark and threat 'ning mien, stand bodeful at my side! Already, ere we left the hollow ship, my spouse Looked seldom on me, spake no comfortable word; As though he mischief brooded, facing me he sat. But now, when to Eurotas' deeply curving shores Steering our course, scarce had our foremost vessel 's beak The land saluted, spake he, as by God inspired : * ' Here let my men of war, in ordered ranks, disbark ; I marshal them, drawn up upon the ocean strand; But thou, pursue thy way, not swerving from the banks, Laden with fruit, that bound Eurotas' sacred stream, Thy coursers guiding o'er the moist enamelled meads, Until thou may'st arrive at that delightful plain, Where Lacedffimon, once a broad fruit-bearing field, By mountains stern surrounded lifteth now its walls. Set thou thy foot within the tower-crown 'd princely house, Assemble thou the maids, whom I at parting left, 454 THE GERMAN CLASSICS And with them summon too the wise old stewardess. Bid her display to thee the treasures' ample store, As by thy sire bequeathed, and which, in peace and war, Increasing evermore, I have myself up-piled. All standing shalt thou find in ancient order ; for, This is the prince's privilege, that to his home, When he returns at last, safe everything he finds, Each in its proper place, as he hath left it there. For nothing of himself the slave hath power to change/ CHOEUS Oh gladden now, with glorious wealth, Ever increasing, thine eye and heart! For beautiful chains, the adornment of crowns, Are priding themselves, in haughty repose; But step thou in, and challenge them all, They arm themselves straight; I joy to see beauty contend for the prize, With gold, and with pearls, and with jewels of price. HELENA Forthwith hath followed next this mandate of my lord : ' * Now when in order thou all things hast duly seen, As many tripods take, as needful thou may'st deem, And vessels manifold, which he at hand requires, Who duly would perform the sacrificial rite, The caldrons, and the bowls, and shallow altar-plates ; Let purest water, too, from sacred fount be there, In lofty pitchers; further, store of season 'd wood, Quick to accept the flame, hold thou in readiness; A knife, of sharpest edge, let it not fail at last. But I all other things to thy sole care resign." So spake he, urging me at once to part ; but naught, Breathing the breath of life, the orderer appoints, That, to the Olympians' honor, he to slaughter doom'd: Suspicious seems it! yet, dismiss I further care; To the high Gods' decree be everything referred, Who evermore fulfil, what they in thought conceive ; It may, in sooth, by men, as evil or as good FAUST PAKT II 455 Be counted, it by us, poor mortals, must be borne. Full oft the ponderous axe on high the priest hath raised, In consecration o'er the earth-bowed victim's neck. Nor could achieve the rite, for he was hindered, Or by approaching foe, or intervening God. CHORUS What now will happen, canst thou not guess ; Enter, queen, enter thou in, Strong of heart! Evil cometh and good Unexpected to mortals; Though foretold, we credit it not. Troya was burning, have we not seen Death before us, terrible death! And are we not here, Bound to thee, serving with joy, Seeing the dazzling sunshine of heaven, And of earth too the fairest, Kind one thyself happy are we! HELENA Come what come may! Whate'er impends, me it behoves To ascend, without delay, into the royal house, Long missed, oft yearned-f or, well-nigh forfeited ; Before mine eyes once more it stands, I know not how. My feet now bear me not so lightly as of yore, When up the lofty steps I, as a child, have sprung. CHORUS Fling now, sisters, ye Captives who mourn your lot, All your sorrows far from you. Share ye your mistress' joy! Share ye Helena's joy, Who to the dear paternal hearth, Though returning full late in sooth, Nathless with surer, firmer tread Joyfully now approaches ! 456 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Praise ye the holy ones, Happy restoring ones, God's, the home-leaders, praise ye! Soars the enfranchised one, As upon out-spread wings, Over the roughest fate, while in vain Pines the captured one, yearning-fraught Over the prison-battlements Arms out-stretching, in anguish. Nathless her a god hath seized, The exiled one, And from Ilion's wreck Bare her hitherw^rd back once more, To the ancient, the newly-adorned Father-house, After unspeakable Pleasure and anguish, Earlier youthful time, Newly quicken 'd, to ponder. PENTHALIS (as leader of the chorus) Forsake ye now of song the joy-surrounded path, As toward the portal-wings turn ye forthwith your gaze! What see I, sisters? Here, returneth not the queen? With step of eager haste, comes she not back to us? What is it, mighty queen, that in the palace-halls, Instead of friendly hail, could there encounter thee, And shatter thus thy being? Thou conceal 'st it not; For I abhorrence see, impressed upon thy brow, And noble anger, that contendeth with surprise. HELENA (who has left the folded doors open, excited) No vulgar fear beseems the daughter of high Zeus, And her no lightly-fleeting terror-hand may touch; But that dire horror which, from womb of ancient Night, In time primeval rising, still in divers shapes, Like lurid clouds, from out the mountain's fiery gorge, Whirls itself forth, may shake even the hero's breast. FAUST PAET II 457 Thus have the Stygian Gods, with horror fraught, today Mine entrance to the house so marked, that fain I am, Back from the oft-time trod, long-yearned-for threshold now, Like to a guest dismissed, departing, to retire. Yet no, retreated have I hither to the light ; No further shall ye drive me, Powers, who'er ye be! Some expiation, I'll devise, then purified, The hearth-flame welcome may the consort as the lord. LEADER OF THE CHORUS Discover, noble queen, to us thy handmaidens, Devotedly who serve thee, what hath come to pass ! HELENA What I have seen ye, too, with your own eyes, shall see, If ancient Night, within her wonder-teeming womb, Hath not forthwith engulfed, once more, her ghastly birth ; But yet, that ye may know, with words I'll tell it you : What time the royal mansion's gloomy inner court, Upon my task intent, with solemn step I trod, I wondered at the drear and silent corridors. Pell on mine ear no sound of busy servitors, No stir of rapid haste, officious, met my gaze ; Before me there appeared no maid, no stewardess, Who every stranger erst, with friendly greeting, hailed. But when I neared at length the bosom of the hearth, There saw I, by the light of dimly smouldering fire, Crouched on the ground, a crone, close-veiled, of stature huge, Not like to one asleep, but as absorbed in thought ! With accent of command I summon her to work, The stewardess in her surmising, who perchance My spouse, departing hence, with foresight there had placed ; Yet, closely muffled up, still sits she, motionless; At length, upon my threat, up-lifts she her right arm, As though from hearth and hall she motioned me away. Wrathful from her I turn, and forthwith hasten out, 458 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Toward the steps, whereon aloft the Thalamos Rises adorned, thereto the treasure-house hard by; When, on a sudden, starts the wonder from the floor; Barring with lordly mien my passage, she herself In haggard height displays, with hollow eyes, blood-grimed, An aspect weird and strange, confounding eye and thought. Yet speak I to the winds ; for language all in vain Creatively essays to body forth such shapes. There see herself! The light she ventures to confront! Here are we master, till the lord and monarch comes ; The ghastly brood of Night doth Phoebus, beauty's friend, Back to their caverns drive, or them he subjugates. [PHOBKYAS stepping on the threshold, between the door-posts.] CHORUS Much have I lived through, although my tresses Youthfully waver still round my temples; Manifold horrors have mine eyes witnessed; Warfare's dire anguish, Ilion's night, When it fell; Through the o'erclouded, dust over-shadow 'd Tumult of war, to gods have I hearken 'd, Fearfully shouting; hearken 'd while discord's Brazen voices clang through the field Rampart-wards. Ah, yet standing were Ilion's Ramparts ; nathless the glowing flames Shot from neighbor to neighbor roof, Ever spreading from here and there, With their tempest's fiery blast, Over the night-darkened city. Flying, saw I through smoke and glare, And the flash of the tongued flames, Dreadful, threatening gods draw near; Wondrous figures, of giant mould, Onward striding through the weird Gloom of fire-luminous vapor. FAUST PART H 459 Saw I them, or did my mind, Anguish-torn, itself body forth Phantoms so terrible never more Can I tell; but that I this Horrible shape with eyes behold, This of a surety know I! Yea, with my hands could clutch it even, Did not fear, from the perilous Venture, ever withhold me. Tell me, of Phorkyas' Daughters which art thou? For to that family Thee must I liken. Art thou, may be, one of the gray-born! One eye only, and but one tooth Using still alternately? One of the Graiae art thou? Darest thou, Horror, Thus beside beauty, Or to the searching glance Phrebus' unveil thee? Nathless step thou forward undaunted; For the horrible sees he not, As his hallowed glances yet Never gazed upon shadows. But a tragical fate, alas, Us, poor mortals, constrains to bear Anguish of vision, unspeakable, Which the contemptible, ever-detestable, Doth in lovers of beauty wake ! Yea, so hearken then, if thou dar'st Us to encounter, hear our curse, Hark to each imprecation's threat, Out of the curse-breathing lips of the happy ones, Who by the gods created are! 460 THE GEEMAN CLASSICS PHOKKYAS Trite is the word, yet high and true remains the sense : That Shame and Beauty ne'er together, hand in hand, Their onward way pursue, earth's verdant path along. Deep-rooted in these twain dwelleth an ancient grudge, So that, where 'er they happen on their way to meet, Upon her hated rival turneth each her back; Then onward speeds her course with greater vehemence, Shame filled with sorrow, Beauty insolent of mood, Till her at length embraces Orcus' hollow night, Unless old age erewhile her haughtiness hath tamed. You find I now, ye wantons, from a foreign shore, With insolence o'erflowing, like the clamorous flight Of cranes, with shrilly scream that high above our heads, A long and moving cloud, croaking send down their noise, Which the lone pilgrim lures wending his silent way, Aloft to turn his gaze; yet on their course they fare, He also upon his : so will it be with us. Who are ye then, that thus around the monarch's house, With Maenad rage, ye dare like drunken ones to rave ? Who are ye then that ye the house's stewardess Thus bay, like pack of hounds hoarsely that bay the moon ? Think ye, 'tis hid from me, the race whereof ye are! Thou youthful, war-begotten, battle-nurtured brood, Lewd and lascivious thou, seducers and seduced, Unnerving both, the soldier's and the burgher's strength! Seeing your throng, to me a locust-swarm ye seem, Which, settling down, conceals the young green harvest- field. Wasters of others' toil! ye dainty revellers, Destroyers in its bloom of all prosperity! Thou conquer 'd merchandise, exchanged and marketed! HELENA Who in the mistress* presence chides her handmaidens, Audacious, doth o'erstep her household privilege; For her alone beseems, the praise-worthy to praise, FAUST PAET II 461 As also that to punish which doth merit blame. Moreover with the service am I well-content, Which these have rendered me, what time proud Ilion's strength Beleaguer 'd stood, and fell and sank; nor less indeed When we, of our sea-voyage the dreary changeful woe Endured, where commonly each thinks but of himself. Here also I expect the like from this blithe train ; Not what the servant is, we ask, but how he serves. Therefore be silent thou, and snarl at them no more ! If thou the monarch's house till now hast guarded well, Filling the mistress ' place, that for thy praise shall count ; But now herself is come, therefore do thou retire, Lest chastisement be thine, instead of well-earn 'd meed! PHORKYAS The menial train to threat, a sacred right remains, Which the illustrious spouse of heaven-favor 'd lord Through many a year doth earn of prudent governance. Since that, now recognized, thy ancient place as queen, And mistress of the house, once more thou dost resume, The long-time loosen 'd reins grasp thou; be ruler here, And in possession take the treasures, us with them ! Me before all protect, who am the elder-born, From this young brood, who seem, thy swan-like beauty near, But as a basely winged flock of cackling geese ! LEADER OF THE CHORUS How hideous beside beauty showeth hideousness ! PHORKYAS How foolish by discretion's side shows foolishness! [Henceforth the choristers respond in turn, stepping forth singly from the chorus.] FIRST CHORISTER Tell us of Father Erebus, tell us of Mother Night! PHORKYAS Speak thou of Scylla, speak of her, thy sister-born! 462 THE GERMAN CLASSICS SECOND CHORISTER From thy ancestral tree springs many a monster forth. PHORKYAS To Orcus hence, away ! Seek thou thy kindred there ! THIRD CHORISTER Who yonder dwell, in sooth, for thee are far too young. PHORKYAS Tiresias, the hoary, go, make love to him ! FOURTH CHORISTER Orion's nurse of old, was thy great-grand-daughter. PHORKYAS Harpies, so I suspect, did rear thee up in filth. FIFTH CHORISTER Thy cherished meagreness, whereon dost nourish thatt PHORKYAS Tis not with blood, for which so keenly thou dost thirst. SIXTH CHORISTER For corpses dost thou hunger, loathsome corpse thyself! PHORKYAS Within thy shameless jaw the teeth of vampires gleam. SEVENTH CHORISTER Thine I should stop were I to tell thee who thou art. PHORKYAS First do thou name thyself ; the riddle then is solved. HELENA Not wrathful, but in grief, step I between you now, Forbidding such alternate quarrel 's angry noise ; For to the ruler naught more hurtful can befall, Than, 'mong his trusty servants, sworn and secret strife ; The echo of his mandate then to him no more In swift accomplished deed responsively returns ; No, stormful and self-wilPd, it rages him around, The self -bewilder 'd one, and chiding still in vain. FAUST PAKT II 463 Nor this alone; ye have in rude unmanner'd wrath Unblessed images of dreadful shapes evoked, Which so encompass me, that whirl 'd I feel myself To Orcus down, despite these my ancestral fields. Is it remembrance ? Was it frenzy seized on me ? Was I all that? and am I? shall I henceforth be The dread and phantom-shape of those town-wasting ones? The maidens quail : but thou, the eldest, thou dost stand, Calm and unmoved ; speak, then, to me some word of sense ! PHOBKYAS Who of long years recalls the fortune manifold, To him heaven's highest favor seems at last a dream. But thou, so highly favored, past all bound or goal, Saw'st, in thy life-course, none but love-inflamed men, Kindled by impulse rash to boldest enterprise. Theseus by passion stirred full early seized on thee, A man of glorious form, and strong as Heracles. HELENA Forceful he bore me off, a ten-year slender roe, And in Aphidnus' keep shut me, in Attica. PHOEKYAS But thence full soon set free, by Castor, Pollux too, In marriage wast thou sought by chosen hero-band. HELENA Yet hath Patroclus, he, Pelides' other self, My secret favor won, as willingly I own. PHOBKYAS But thee thy father hath to Menelaus wed, Bold rover of the sea, and house-sustainer too. HELENA His daughter gave he, gave to him the kingdom's sway; And from our wedded union sprang Hermione. PHOBKYAS But while he strove afar, for Crete, his heritage, To thee, all lonely, came an all too beauteous guest. 464 THE GERMAN CLASSICS HELENA Wherefore the time recall of that half-widowhood, And what destruction dire to me therefrom hath grown ! PHOEKYAS That voyage unto me, a free-born dame of Crete, Hath also capture brought, and weary servitude. HELENA As stewardess forthwith, he did appoint thee here, With much intrusted, fort and treasure boldly won. PHOBKYAS All which thou didst forsake, by Ilion's tower-girt town Allured, and by the joys, the exhaustless joys of love. HELENA Remind me not of joys: No, an infinitude Of all too bitter woe o'erwhelm'd my heart and brain. PHORKYAS Nathless 'tis said thou didst in two-fold shape appear; Seen within Ilion's walls, and seen in Egypt too. HELENA Confuse thou not my brain, distraught and desolate! Here even, who I am in sooth I cannot tell. PHORKYAS 'Tis also said, from out the hollow shadow-dream, Achilles, passion-fired, hath joined himself to thee, Whom he hath loved of old, 'gainst all resolves of Fate. HELENA As phantom I myself, to him a phantom bound ; A dream it was thus e 'en the very words declare. I faint, and to myself a phantom I become. [She sinks into the arms of the semi-chorus.] CHORUS Silence ! Silence ! False seeing one, false speaking one, thou! Through thy horrible, single-tooth 'd lips, FAUST PART n 465 Ghastly, what exhaleth From such terrible loathsome gulf! For the malignant one, kindliness feigning, Rage of wolf 'neath the sheep's woolly fleece, Far more terrible is unto me than Jaws of the hound three-headed. Anxiously watching stand we here : When! How? Where of such malice Bursteth the tempest From this deep-lurking brood of Hell? Now, 'stead of friendly words, freighted with comfort, Lethe-bestowing, gracious and mild, Thou art summoning from times departed, Thoughts of the past most hateful, Overshadowing not alone All sheen gilding the present, Also the future's Mildly glimmering light of hope. Silence ! Silence ! That fair Helena's soul, Ready e'en now to take flight, Still may keep, yea firmly keep The form of all forms, the loveliest, Ever illumined of old by the sun. [HELENA has revived, and again stands in the midst.] ********** ( The scene is entirely changed. Close arbors recline against a series of rocky caverns. A shady grove extends to the base of the encircling rocks. FAUST and HELENA are not seen. The CHORUS lies sleeping, scattered here and there.) PHOBKYAS How long these maids have slept, in sooth I cannot tell ; Or whether they have dreamed what I before mine eyes Saw bright and clear, to me is equally unknown. So wake I them. Amazed the younger folks shall be, Ye too, ye bearded ones, who sit below and wait, VOL. 1 30 466 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Hoping to see at length these miracles resolved. Arise! Arise! And shake quickly your crisped locks! Shake slumber from your eyes ! Blink not, and list to me ! CHORUS Only speak, relate, and tell us, what of wonderful hath chanced ! We more willingly shall hearken that which we cannot believe ; For we are aweary, weary, gazing on these rocks around. PHORKYAS Children, how, already weary, though you scarce have rubbed your eyes? Hearken then! Within these caverns, in these grottoes, in these bowers, Shield and shelter have been given, as to lover-twain idyllic, To our lord and to our lady CHORUS How, within thereT PHORKYAS Yea, secluded From the world; and me, me only, they to secret service called. Highly honored stood I near them, yet, as one in trust beseemeth, Bound I gazed on other objects, turning hither, turning thither, Sought for roots, for barks and mosses, with their prop- erties acquainted; And they thus remained alone. CHORUS Thou would 'st make believe that yonder, world- wide spaces lie within, Wood and meadow, lake and brooklet; what strange fable spinnest thou! FAUST PAET H 467 PHORKYAS Yea, in sooth, ye inexperienced, there lie regions undis- covered : Hall on hall, and court on court; in my musings these I track. Suddenly a peal of laughter echoes through the cavern 'd spaces ; In I gaze, a boy is springing from the bosom of the woman To the man, from sire to mother: the caressing and the fondling, All love's foolish playfulnesses, mirthful cry and shout of rapture, Alternating, deafen me. Naked, without wings, a genius, like a faun, with nothing bestial, On the solid ground he springeth; but the ground, with counter-action, Up to ether sends him flying; with the second, third rebounding Touches he the vaulted roof. Anxiously the mother calleth: Spring amain, and at thy pleasure ; But beware, think not of flying, unto thee is flight denied. And so warns the faithful father : In the earth the force elastic Lies, aloft that sends thee bounding; let thy toe but touch the surface, Like the son of earth, Antaeus, straightway is thy strength renewed. And so o'er these rocky masses, on from dizzy ledge to ledge, Leaps he ever, hither, thither, springing like a stricken ball. But in cleft of rugged cavern suddenly from sight he vanished ; And now lost to us he seemeth, mother waileth, sire con- soleth, 468 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Anxiously I shrug my shoulders. But again, behold, what vision ! Lie there treasures hidden yonder? Raiment broidered o'er with flowers He becomingly hath donned; Tassels from his arms are waving, ribbons flutter on his bosom, In his hand the lyre all-golden, wholly like a tiny Phoebus, Boldly to the edge he steppeth, to the precipice ; we wonder, And the parents, full of rapture, cast them on each other's heart ; For around his brow what splendor! Who can tell what there is shining? Gold-work is it, or the flaming of surpassing spirit-power? Thus he moveth, with such gesture, e'en as boy himself announcing Future master of all beauty, through whose limbs, whose every member, Flow the melodies eternal : and so shall ye hearken to him, And so shall ye gaze upon him, to your special wonderment. CHORUS This call 'at thou marvelous, Daughter of Greta? Unto the bard's pregnant word Hast thou perchance never listened T Hast thou not heard of Ionia's, Ne'er been instructed in Hellas' Legends, from ages primeval, Godlike, heroical treasure? All, that still happeneth Now in the present, Sorrowful echo 'tis, Of days ancestral, more noble ; Equals not in sooth thy story That which beautiful fiction, Than truth more worthy of credence, Chanted hath of Maia's offspring! FAUST PART II 459 This so shapely and potent, yet Scarcely-born delicate nursling, Straight have his gossiping nurses Folded in purest swaddling fleece, Fastened in costly swathings, With their irrational notions. Potent and shapely, nevertheless, Draws the rogue his flexible limbs, Body firm yet elastic, Craftily forth; the purple shell, Him so grievously binding, Leaving quietly in its place; As the perfected butterfly, From the rigid chrysalid, Pinion unfolding, rapidly glides, Boldly and wantonly sailing through Sun-impregnated ether. So he, too, the most dextrous, That to robbers and scoundrels, Yea, and to all profit-seekers, He a favoring god might be, This he straightway made manifest, Using arts the most cunning. Swift from the ruler of ocean he Steals the trident, yea, e'en from Ares Steals the sword from the scabbard; Arrow and bow from Phoebus too, Also his tongs from Hephaestos: Even Zeus', the father's, bolt, Him had fire not scared, he had ta'en. Eros also worsted he, In limb-grappling, wrestling match; Stole from Cypria as she caressed him, From her bosom, the girdle. 470 THE GERMAN CLASSICS (An exquisite, purely melodious lyre-music resounds from the cave. All become attentive, and appear soon to be inwardly moved; henceforth, to the pause indicated, there is a full musical accompaniment.) PHORKYAS Hark those notes so sweetly sounding; Cast aside your fabled lore : Gods, in olden time abounding, Let them go ! their day is o 'er. None will comprehend your singing; Nobler theme the age requires: From the heart must flow, up-springing, What to touch the heart aspires. [She retires behind the rock.] CHORUS To these tones, so sweetly flowing, Dire one ! dost incline thine ears, They in us, new health bestowing, Waken now the joy of tears. Vanish may the sun's clear shining, In our soul if day arise, In our heart we, unrepining, Find what the whole world denies. (HELENA, FAUST, EUPHORION in the costume indicated above) EUPHORION Songs of childhood hear ye ringing, Your own mirth it seems; on me Gazing, thus in measure springing, Leap your parent-hearts with glee. HELENA Love, terrestrial bliss to capture, Two in noble union mates; But to wake celestial rapture, He a precious three creates. FAUST PART II 471 FAUST All hath been achieved. For ever I am thine, and mine them art, Blent our beings are oh never May our present joy depart ! CHORUS Many a year of purest pleasure, In the mild light of their boy, Crowns this pair in richest measure. Me their union thrills with joy! EUPHORION Now let me gambol, Joyfully springing! Upward to hasten Through ether winging, This wakes my yearning, This prompts me now! FAUST Gently! son, gently! Be not so daring! Lest ruin seize thee Past all repairing, And our own darling Whelm us in woe! EUPHORION From earth my spirit Still upward presses; Let go my hands now, Let go my tresses, Let go my garments, Mine every one! HELENA To whom, bethink thee, Now thou pertainest! Think how it grieves us 472 THE GERMAN CLASSICS When thou disdainest Mine, thine, and his, the all That hath been won. CHOKUS Soon shall, I fear me, The bond be undone ! HELENA and FAUST Curb for thy parents' sake, To us returning, Curb thy importunate Passionate yearning! Make thou the rural plain Tranquil and bright. EUPHORION But to content you Stay I my flight. (Winding among the CHORUS and drawing them forth to dance) Round this gay troop I flee With impulse light. Say is the melody, Say is the movement right f HELENA Yea, 'tis well done; advance, Lead to the graceful dance These maidens coy! FAUST Could I the end but see ! Me this mad revelry Pills with annoy. EUPHORION and the CHOBUS (Dancing and singing, they move about in interweaving lines) Moving thine arms so fair With graceful motion, Tossing thy curling hair FAUST PAKT II 473 In bright commotion; When thou with foot so light Over the earth doth skim, Thither and back in flight, Moving each graceful limb; Thou hast attained thy goal, Beautiful child, All hearts thou hast beguiled, Won every soul. [Pause.] EUPHORION Gracefully sporting, Light-footed roes, New frolic courting Scorn ye repose: I am the hunter, Ye are the game. CHORUS Us wilt thou capture, Urge not thy pace; For it were rapture Thee to embrace, Beautiful creature, This our sole aim ! EUPHORION Through trees and heather, Bound all together, O'er stock and stone! Whate'er is lightly won, That I disdain ; What I by force obtain, Prize I alone. HELENA and FAUST What vagaries, sense confounding ! Naught of measure to be hoped for! Like the blare of trumpet sounding, Over vale and forest ringing. What a riot! What a crv! 474 THE GERMAN CLASSICS CHORUS (entering quickly one by one) Us he passed with glance scorn-laden; Hastily still onward springing, Bearing now the wildest maiden Of our troop, he draweth nigh. EUPHORIC N (bearing a young maiden) I this wilful maid and coy Carry to enforced caress ; For my pleasure, for my joy Her resisting bosom press, Kiss her rebel lips, that so She my power and will may know. MAIDEN Loose me ! in this frame residing, Burns a spirit's strength and might; Strong as thine, our will presiding Swerveth not with purpose light. Thinkest, on thy strength relying, That thou hast me in a strait? Hold me, fool! thy strength defying, For my sport, I'll scorch thee yet! [She flames up and flashes into the air.] Follow where light breezes wander, Follow to rude caverns yonder, Strive thy vanish 'd prey to net! EUPHORION" (shaking off the last flames) Rocks all around I see, Thickets and woods among! Why should they prison met Still am I fresh and young. Tempests, they loudly roar, Billows, they lash the shore ; Both far away I hear; Would I were near ! [He springs higher up the rock.] FAUST PART II 475 HELENA, FAUST, and CHORUS Wouldst thou chamois-like aspire? Us thy threaten 'd fall dismays! EUPHORION Higher must I climb, yet higher, "Wider still must be my gaze. Know I now, where I stand: 'Midst of the sea-girt land, 'Midst of great Pelops' reign, Kin both to earth and main. CHORUS Canst not near copse and wold Tarry, then yonder, Ripe figs and apple-gold Seeking, we'll wander; Grapes too shall woo our hand, Grapes from the mantling vine. Ah, let this dearest land, Dear one, be thine! EUPHORION Dream ye of peaceful day? Dream on, while dream ye mayl War! is the signal cry, Hark! cries of victory! CHORUS War who desireth While peace doth reign, To joy aspireth Henceforth in vain. EUPHORION All whom this land hath bred, Through peril onward led, Free, of undaunted mood, Still lavish of their blood, With soul untaught to yield, Rending each chain! 476 THE GERMAN CLASSICS To such the bloody field, Brings glorious gain. CHOBUS High he soars, mark, upward gazing, And to us not small doth seem: Victor-like, in harness blazing, As of steel and brass the gleam! EUPHOBION Not on moat or wall relying, On himself let each one rest! Firmest stronghold, all defying, Ever is man's iron breast! Dwell for aye unconquered would yet Arm, by no vain dreams beguiled! Amazons your women should be, And a hero every child! CHOBUS O hallowed Poesie, Heavenward still soareth she! Shine on, thou brightest star, Farther and still more far! Yet us she still doth cheer; Even her voice to hear, Joyful we are. EUPHOBION Child no more; a stripling bearing Arms appears, with valor fraught: Leagued with the strong, the free, the daring, In soul already who hath wrought. Hence away! No delay! There where glory may be sought. HELENA and FAUST Scarcely summoned to life's gladness, Scarcely given to day's bright gleam, Downward now to pain and sadness FAUST PAKT H 477 Wouldst thou rush, from heights supreme 1 Are then we Naught to thee? Is our gracious bond a dream? EUPHOKION Hark! What thunders seaward rattle, Echoing from vale to vale ! 'Mid dust and foam, in shock of battle, Throng on throng, to grief and bale! And the command Is, firm to stand ; Death to face, nor ever quail. HELENA, FAUST, and CHORUS Oh what horror! Hast thou told it! Is then death for thee decreed! EUPHORION From afar shall I behold it? No! I'll share the care and need! HELENA, FAUST and CHORUS Rashness to peril brings, And deadly fate! EUPHORION Yet see a pair of wings Unfoldeth straight! Thither I must, I must Grudge not my flight! [He casts himself into the air; his garments support him for a moment; his head flames, a trail of light follows him -l CHORUS Icarus ! Icarus ! Oh woeful sight! (A beautiful youth falls at the parents' feet; we imagine that in the dead we recognize a well-known form; yet suddenly the corporeal part vanishes; the aureole ris like a comet to heaven; dress, mantle, and lyre remaw lying on the ground.) 478 THE GERMAN CLASSICS HELENA and FAUST Follows on joy new-born Anguishful moan! EUPHORION'S VOICE (from the depths) Leave me in realms forlorn, Mother, not all alone! [Pause.] CHORUS (dirge) Not alone for hope we cherish, Where thou bidest thee to know! Ah, from daylight though thou perish, Ne 'er a heart will let thee go ! Scarce we venture to bewail thee, Envying we sing thy fate : Did sunshine cheer, or storm assail thee, Song and heart were fair and great. Earthly fortune was thy dower, Lofty lineage, ample might, Ah, too early lost, thy flower Withered by untimely blight ! Glance was thine the world discerning, Sympathy with every wrong, Woman's love for thee still yearning, And thine own enchanting song. Yet the beaten path forsaking, Thou didst run into the snare ; So with law and usage breaking, On thy wilful course didst fare ; Yet at last high thought has given To thy noble courage weight, For the loftiest thou has striven It to win was not thy fate. Who does win it? Unreplying, Destiny the question hears, When the bleeding people lying, Dumb with grief, no cry uprears! FAUST PART II 479 Now new songs chant forth, in sorrow Deeply bowed lament no more ; Them the earth brings forth tomorrow, As she brought them forth of yore ! [Full pause. The music ceases.] ACT THE FIFTH OPEN COUNTRY WANDERER Yes, 'tis they, their branches rearing, Hoary lindens, strong in age; There I find them, reappearing, After my long pilgrimage ! 'Tis the very spot; how gladly Yonder hut once more I see, By the billows raging madly, Cast ashore, which sheltered me! My old hosts, I fain would greet them, Helpful they, an honest pair; May I hope today to meet them? Even then they aged were. Worthy folk, in God believing! Shall I knock? or raise my voice! Hail to you if, guest receiving, In good deeds ye still rejoice! BAUCIS (a very aged woman) Stranger dear, beware of breaking My dear husband's sweet repose! Strength for brief and feeble waking Lengthened sleep on age bestows. WANDERER Mother, say then, do I find thee, To receive my thanks once more, In my youth who didst so kindly, With thy spouse, my life restore? 480 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Baucis, to my lips half -dying, Art thou, who refreshment gave? [The husband steps forth.] Thou Philemon, strength who plying, Snatched my treasure from the wave? By your flames, so promptly kindled, By your bell's clear silver sound That adventure, horror-mingled, Hath a happy issue found. Forward let me step, and gazing Forth upon the boundless main, Kneel, and thankful prayers upraising, Ease of my full heart the strain! [He walks forward upon the downs.] PHILEMON (to BAUCIS) Haste to spread the table, under The green leafage of our trees. Let him run, struck dumb with wonder, Scarce he'll credit what he sees. [He follows the wanderer. Standing beside him.] Where the billows did maltreat you, Wave on wave in fury rolled, There a garden now doth greet you, Fair as Paradise of old. Grown more aged, as when stronger, I could render aid no more; And, as waned my strength, no longer Boiled the sea upon the shore ; Prudent lords, bold serfs directing, It with trench and dyke restrained; Ocean's rights no more respecting, Lords they were, where he had reigned. See, green meadows far extending; Garden, village, woodland, plain. But return we, homeward wending, For the sun begins to wane. In the distance sails are gliding, FAUST PAET H Nightly they to port repair; Bird-like, in their nests confiding, For a haven waits them there. Far away mine eye discerneth First the blue fringe of the main; Eight and left, where'er it turneth, Spreads the thickly-peopled plain. IN THE GARDEN The three at table BAUCIS (to the stranger) Art thou dumb? No morsel raising To thy famished lips? PHILEMON I trow, He of wonders so amazing Fain would hear; inform him thou. BAUCIS There was wrought a wonder truly, Yet no rest it leaves to me ; Naught in the affair was duly Done, as honest things should be! PHILEMON Who as sinful can pronounce it? 'Twas the emperor gave the shore; Did the trumpet not announce it As the herald passed our door? Footing firm they first have planted Near these downs. Tents, huts, appeared; O'er the green, the eye, enchanted, Saw ere long a palace reared. BAUCIS Shovel, axe, no labor sparing, Vainly plied the men by day; Where the fires at night shone flaring, Stood a dam, in morning's ray. VOL. 1 31 482 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Still from human victims bleeding, Wailing sounds were nightly borne; Seaward sped the flames, receding; A canal appeared at morn! Godless is he, naught respecting; Covets he our grove, our cot; Though our neighbor, us subjecting, Him to serve will be our lot. PHILEMON Yet he bids, our claims adjusting, Homestead fair in his new land. BAUCIS Earth, from water saved, mistrusting, On thine own height take thy stand. PHILEMON Let us, to the chapel wending, Watch the sun's last rays subside; Let us ring, and prayerful bending, In our father's God confide! PALACE Spacious ornamental garden; broad, straight canal. FAUST in extreme old age, walking about, meditating. LYNCEUS, THE WARDER (through a speaking trumpet) The sun sinks down, the ships belated Rejoicing to the haven steer. A stately galley, deeply freighted, On the canal, now draweth near; Her chequer 'd flag the breeze caresses The masts unbending bear the sails : Thee now the grateful seaman blesses, Thee at this moment Fortune hails. [The bell rings on the downs.] FAUST (starting) Accursed bell! Its clamor sending, Like spiteful shot it wounds mine ear I FAUST PAETn 483 Before me lies my realm unending; Vexation dogs me in the rear ; For I, these envious chimes still hearing, Must at my narrow bounds repine ; The linden grove, brown hut thence peering, The moldering church, these are not mine. Refreshment seek I, there repairing? Another 's shadow chills my heart, A thorn, nor foot nor vision sparing, far from hence could I depart ! WABDEB (as above) How, wafted by the evening gales, Blithely the painted galley sails; On its swift course, how richly stored I Chest, coffer, sack, are heaped aboard. A splendid galley, richly and brilliantly laden with the produce of foreign climes. MEPHISTOPHELES. THE THREE MIGHTY COMRADES CHORUS Here do we land, Here are we now. Hail to our lord; Our patron, thou! (They disembark. The goods are brought ashore.) MEPHISTOPHELES So have we proved our worth content If we our patron's praises earn: With but two ships abroad we went, With twenty we to port return. By our rich lading all may see The great successes we have wrought. Free ocean makes the spirit free: There claims compunction ne 'er a thought I A rapid grip there needs alone; A fish, a ship, on both we seize. Of three if we the lordship own, 484 THE GERMAN CLASSICS Straightway we hook a fourth with ease, Then is the fifth in sorry plight Who hath the power, has still the right; The What is asked for, not the How. Else know I not the seaman's art: War, commerce, piracy, I trow, A trinity, we may not part. THE THREE MIGHTY COMBADES No thank and hail; No hail and thank! As were our cargo Vile and rank! Disgust upon His face one sees: The kingly wealth Doth him displease ! MEPHISTOPHELES Expect ye now No further pay; For ye your share Have ta'en away. THE THREE MIGHTY COMRADES To pass the time, As was but fair; We all expect An equal share. MEPHISTOPHELES First range in order, Hall on hall, These wares so costly, One and all! And when he steps The prize to view, And reckons all With judgment true, He'll be no niggard; FAUST PART II 485 As is meet, Feast after feast He '11 give the fleet, The gay birds come with morning tide ; Myself for them can best provide. [The cargo is removed.] MEPHISTOPHELES (to FAUST) With gloomy look, with earnest brow Thy fortune high receivest thou. Thy lofty wisdom has been crowned ; Their limits shore and sea have bound; Forth from the shore, in swift career, 'er the glad waves, thy vessels steer ; Speak only from thy pride of place, Thine arm the whole world doth embrace. Here it began ; on this spot stood The first rude cabin formed of wood ; A little ditch was sunk of yore Where plashes now the busy oar. Thy lofty thought, thy people 's hand, Have won the prize from sea and land. From here too FAUST That accursed here! It weighs upon me ! Lend thine ear ; To thine experience I must tell, With thrust on thrust, what wounds my heart; To bear it is impossible Nor can I, without shame, impart: The old folk there above must yield ; Would that my seat those lindens were ; Those few trees not mine own, that field, Possession of the world impair. There I, wide view o'er all to take, From bough to bough would scaffolds raise ; Would, for the prospect, vistas make On all that I have done to gaze ; 486 THE GERMAN CLASSICS To see at once before me brought The master-work of human thought, Where wisdom hath achieved the plan, And won broad dwelling-place for man. Thus are we tortured; in our weal, That which we lack, we sorely feel ! The chime, the scent of linden-bloom, Surround me like a vaulted tomb. The will that nothing could withstand, Is broken here upon the sand: How from the vexing thought be safe? The bell is pealing, and I chafe ! MEPHISTOPHELES Such spiteful chance, 'tis natural, Must thy existence fill with gall. Who doubts it ! To each noble ear, This clanging odious must appear; This cursed ding-dong, booming loud, The cheerful evening-sky doth shroud, With each event of life it blends, From birth to burial it attends, Until this mortal life doth seem, Twixt ding and dong, a vanished dream! FAUST Resistance, stubborn selfishness, Can trouble lordliest success, Till, in deep angry pain one must Grow tired at last of being first ! MEPHISTOPHELES Why let thyself be troubled here I Is colonizing not thy sphere? FAUST Then go, to move them be thy care ! Thou knowest well the homestead fair, I've chosen for the aged pair FAUST PAET n 487 MEPHISTOPHELES We '11 bear them off, and on new ground Set them, ere one can look around. The violence outlived and past, Shall a fair home atone at last. [He whistles shrilly.] THE THBEE enter MEPHISTOPHELES Come! straight fulfil the lord's behest; The fleet tomorrow he will feast. THE THREE The old lord us did ill requite ; A sumptuous feast is ours by right. MEPHISTOPHELES (to the spectators) What happ 'd of old, here happens too : Still Naboth's vineyard meets the view. (I Kings, xvi.) DEEP NIGHT LYNCEUS THE WARDER (on the watch-tower singing) Keen vision my birth-dower, I'm placed on this height, Still sworn to the watch-tower, The world's my delight. I gaze on the distant, I look on the near, On moon and on planet, On wood and the deer: The beauty eternal In all things I see; And pleased with myself All bring pleasure to me. Glad eyes, look around ye And gaze, for whate'er The sight they encounter, It still hath been fair! 488 THE GERMAN CLASSICS (Pause) Not alone for pleasure-taking Am I planted thus on high; What dire vision, horror-waking, From yon dark world scares mine eye! Fiery sparkles see I gleaming Through the lindens' two-fold night; By the breezes fanned, their beaming Gloweth now with fiercer light! Ah ! the peaceful hut is burning ; Stood its moss-grown walls for years ; They for speedy help are yearning And no rescue, none appears! Ah the aged folk, so kindly, Once so careful of the fire, Now, to smoke a prey, they blindly Perish, oh misfortune dire ! 'Mid red flames, the vision dazing, Stands the moss-hut, black and bare; From the hell, so fiercely blazing, Could we save the honest pair ! Lightning-like the fire advances, 'Mid the foliage, 'mid the branches; Withered boughs, they flicker, burning, Swiftly glow, then fall ; ah me ! Must mine eyes, this woe discerning, Must they so far-sighted be ! Down the lowly chapel crashes 'Neath the branches' fall and weight; Winding now, the pointed flashes To the summit climb elate. Eoots and trunks the flames have blighted - t Hollow, purple-red, they glow! (Long pause. Song) Gone, what once the eye delighted, With the ages long ago! FAUST PART II 489 FAUST (on the balcony, toward the downs) From above what plaintive whimper? "Word and tone are here too late! Wails my warder; me, in spirit Grieves this deed precipitate ! Though in ruin unexpected Charred now lie the lindens old, Soon a height will be erected, Whence the boundless to behold. I the home shall see, enfolding In its walls, that ancient pair, Who, my gracious care beholding, Shall their lives end joyful there. MEPHISTOPHELES and THE THREE (below) Hither we come full speed. We crave Your pardon! Things have not gone right! Full many a knock and kick we gave, They opened not, in our despite; Then rattled we and kick'd the more, And prostrate lay the rotten door; We called aloud with threat severe, Yet sooth we found no listening ear. And as in such case still befalls, They heard not, would not hear our calls ; Forthwith thy mandate we obeyed, And straight for thee a clearance made. The pair their sufferings were light, Fainting they sank, and died of fright. A stranger, harbor M there, made show Of force, full soon was he laid low; In the brief space of this wild fray, From coals, that strewn around us lay, The straw caught fire ; 'tis blazing free, As funeral death-pyre for the three. FAUST To my commandments deaf were ye ! Exchange I wished, not robbery. 490 THE GERMAN CLASSICS For this your wild and ruthless part ; I curse it! Share it and depart ! CHORUS The ancient saw still rings today: Force with a willing mind obey; If boldly thou canst stand the test, Stake house, court, life, and all the rest ! [Exeunt.] FAUST The stars their glance and radiance veil; Smoulders the sinking fire, a gale Fans it with moisture-laden wings, Vapor to me and smoke it brings. Rash mandate rashly, too, obeyed! What hither sweeps like spectral shade? MIDNIGHT Four gray women enter FIRST My name, it is Want. SECOND And mine, it is Blame. THIRD My name, it is Care. FOURTH Need, that is my name. THREE (together) The door is fast-bolted, we cannot get in; The owner is wealthy, we may not within. WANT There fade I to shadow. BLAME There cease I to be. FAUST PART II 491 NEED His visage the pampered still turneth from me. CAEE Ye sisters, ye cannot, ye dare not go in; But Care through the key-hole an entrance may win. [CARE disappears.] WANT Sisters, gray sisters, away let us glide! BLAME I bind myself to thee, quite close to thy side. NEED And Need at your heels doth with yours blend her breath.* THE THREE Fast gather the clouds, they eclipse star on star. Behind there, behind, from afar, from afar, There comes he, our brother, there cometh he Death. FAUST (in the palace) Four saw I come, but only three went hence. Of their discourse I could not catch the sense ; There fell upon mine ear a sound like breath, Thereon a gloomy rhyme-word followed Death; Hollow the sound, with spectral horror fraught! Not yet have I, in sooth, my freedom wrought ; Could I my pathway but from magic free, And quite unlearn the spells of sorcery, Stood I, oh nature, man alone 'fore thee, Then were it worth the trouble man to be ! Such was I once, ere I in darkness sought, And curses dire, through words with error fraught, Upon myself and on the world have brought ; So teems the air with falsehood's juggling brood, That no one knows how them he may elude ! If but one day shines clear, in reason's light In spectral dream envelopes us the night; * Not and Tod, the German equivalents for Need and Death, form a rhyme. As this cannot be rendered in English, I have introduced a slight alteratic into my translation. 492 THE GEEMAN CLASSICS From the fresh fields, as homeward we advance There croaks a bird: what croaks he? some mischance! Ensnared by superstition, soon and late; As sign and portent, it on us doth wait By fear unmanned, we take our stand alone; The portal creaks, and no one enters, none. (Agitated) Is some one here? CAEE The question prompteth, yes ! FAUST What art thou then? CABE Here, once for all, am I. FAUST Withdraw thyself ! CAKE My proper place is this. FAUST (first angry, then appeased. Aside) Take heed, and speak no word of sorcery. CABE Though by outward ear unheard, By my moan the heart is stirred; And in ever-changeful guise, Cruel force I exercise; On the shore and on the sea, Comrade dire hath man in me Ever found, though never sought, Flattered, cursed, so have I wrought. Hast thou as yet Care never known? FAUST I have but hurried through the world, I own. I by the hair each pleasure seized; Relinquished what no longer pleased, That which escaped me I let go, FAUST PAKT II 493 I've craved, accomplished, and then craved again; Thus through my life I've storm 'd with might and main, Grandly, with power, at first ; but now indeed, It goes more cautiously, with wiser heed. I know enough of earth, enough of men ; The view beyond is barred from mortal ken ; Fool, who would yonder peer with blinking eyes, And of his fellows dreams above the skies ! Firm let him stand, the prospect round him scan, Not mute the world to the true-hearted man. Why need he wander through eternity? What he can grasp, that only knoweth he. So let him roam adown earth's fleeting day; If spirits haunt, let him pursue his way; In joy or torment ever onward stride, Though every moment still unsatisfied! CARE To him whom I have made mine own All profitless the world hath grown: Eternal gloom around him lies; For him suns neither set nor rise ; With outward senses perfect, whole, Dwell darknesses within his soul; Though wealth he owneth, ne'ertheless He nothing truly can possess. Weal, woe, become mere phantasy; He hungers 'mid satiety; Be it joy, or be it sorrow, He postpones it till the morrow; Of the future thinking ever, Prompt for present action never. FAUST Forbear ! Thou shalt not come near me ! I will not hear such folly. Hence ! Avauntl This evil litany The wisest even might bereave of sense. 494 THE GERMAN CLASSICS CABE Shall he come or go? He ponders; All resolve from him is taken ; On the beaten path he wanders, Groping on, as if forsaken. Deeper still himself he loses, Everything his sight abuses, Both himself and others hating, Taking breath and suffocating, Without life yet scarcely dying, Not despairing not relying. Rolling on without remission: Loathsome ought, and sad permission, Now deliverance, now vexation, Semi-sleep, poor recreation, Nail him to his place and wear him, And at last for hell prepare him. FAUST Unblessed spectres! Ye mankind have so Treated a thousand times, their thoughts deranging; E'en uneventful days to mar ye know, Into a tangled web of torment changing ! 'Tis hard, I know, from demons to get free, The mighty spirit-bond by force untying; Yet Care, I never will acknowledge thee, Thy strong in-creeping, potency defying. CABE Feel it then now; as thou shalt find When with a curse from thee I've wended: Through their whole lives are mortals blind So be thou, Faust, ere life be ended ! [She breathes on him.] FAUST (blind) Deeper and deeper night is round me sinking; Only within me shines a radiant light. I haste to realize, in act, my thinking; FAUST PAKT II 495 The master's word, that only giveth might. Up, vassals, from your couch ! my project bold, Grandly completed, now let all behold! Seize ye your tools; your spades, your shovels ply; The work laid down, accomplish instantly ! Strict rule, swift diligence, these twain The richest recompense obtain. Completion of the greatest work demands One guiding spirit for a thousand hands. GBEAT FORE-COUKT OF THE PALACE Torches MEPHISTOPHELES (as overseer leading the way) This way ! this way ! Come on ! come on ! Le Lemures, loose of tether, Of tendon, sinew, and of bone, Half natures, patched together! LEMURES (in chorus) At thy behest we're here at hand; Thy destined aim half guessing It is that we a spacious land May win for our possessing. Sharp-pointed stakes we bring with speed, Long chains wherewith to measure. But we Ve forgotten why indeed To call us was thy pleasure. MEPHISTOPHELES No artist-toil we need today: Sufficeth your own measure here : At his full length the tallest let him lay ! Ye others round him straight the turf uprear; As for our sires was done of yore, An oblong square delve ye once more. Out of the palace to the narrow home So at the last the sorry end must come ! 496 THE GERMAN CLASSICS LEMUBES (digging, with mocking gestures) In youth when I did live and love, Methought, it was very sweet! Where frolic rang and mirth was rife, Thither still sped my feet. Now with his crutch hath spiteful age Dealt me a blow full sore : I stumbled o'er a yawning grave, Why open stood the door ! FAUST (comes forth from the palace, groping his way by the door posts) How doth the clang of spades delight my soul ! For me my vassals toil, the while Earth with itself they reconcile, The waves within their bounds control, And gird the sea with stedf ast zone MEPHISTOPHELES (aside) And yet for us dost work alone, While thou for dam and bulwark carest; Since thus for Neptune thou preparest, The water-fiend, a mighty fete ; Before thee naught but ruin lies ; The elements are our allies; Onward destruction strides elate. FAUST Inspector ! MEPHISTOPHELES Here. FAUST As many as you may, Bring crowds on crowds to labor here ; Them by reward and rigor cheer ; Persuade, entice, give ample pay! Each day be tidings brought me at what rate The moat extends which here we excavate. FAUST PART n 497 MEPHISTOPHELES (half aloud) They speak, as if to me they gave Report, not of a moat but of a grave.* FAUST A marsh along the mountain chain Infecteth what's already won; Also the noisome pool to drain My last, best triumph then were won : To many millions space I thus should give, Though not secure, yet free to toil and live ; Green fields and fertile ; men, with cattle blent, Upon the newest earth would dwell content, Settled forthwith upon the firm-based hill, Up-lifted by a valiant people's skill; Within, a land like Paradise; outside, E 'en to the brink, roars the impetuous tide, And as it gnaws, striving to enter there, All haste, combined, the damage to repair. Yea, to this thought I cling, with virtue rife, Wisdom's last fruit, profoundly true: Freedom alone he earns as well as life, Who day by day must conquer them anew. So girt by danger, childhood bravely here, Youth, manhood, age, shall dwell from year to year; Such busy crowds I fain would see, Upon free soil stand with a people free; Then to the moment might I say : Linger awhile, so fair thou art! Nor can the traces of my earthly day Through ages from the world depart! In the presentiment of such high bliss, The highest moment I enjoy 'tis this. (FAUST sinks back, the LEMUBES lay hold of him and lay him upon the ground.) * The play of words contained in the original cannot be reproduced in translation, the German for Moat being Graben, and for grave Grab. SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY A 000 111 873 i