Epeisodion 2
Dionysus
It is not lawful for you to hear, but they are worth knowing.
Pentheus
You have counterfeited this well, so that I desire to hear.
475
Dionysus
The rites are hostile to whoever practices impiety.
Pentheus
Are you saying that you saw clearly what the god was like?
Dionysus
He was as he chose; I did not order this.
Pentheus
Again you diverted my question well, speaking mere nonsense.
Dionysus
One will seem to be foolish if he speaks wisely to an ignorant man.
480
Pentheus
Did you come here first, bringing the god?
Dionysus
All the barbarians celebrate these rites.
Pentheus
Yes, for they are far more foolish than Hellenes.
Dionysus
In this at any rate they are wiser; but their laws are different.
Pentheus
Do you perform the rites by night or by day?
485
Dionysus
Mostly by night; darkness conveys awe.
Pentheus
This is treacherous towards women, and unsound.
Dionysus
Even during the day someone may devise what is shameful.
Pentheus
You must pay the penalty for your evil contrivances.
Dionysus
And you for your ignorance and impiety toward the god.
490
Pentheus
How bold the Bacchant is, and not unpracticed in speaking!
Dionysus
Tell me what I must suffer; what harm will you do to me?
Pentheus
First I will cut off your delicate hair.
