PROMETHEUS
On the other hand, men are obliged to use fire, not only for other purposes but above all for the sacrifices, in order that they may be able “to fill the ways with savour” and to burn incense and consume meat on the altars. Indeed, I notice that you all take particular pleasure in the smoke and think it the most delightful of banquets when the savour comes up to heaven curling about the smoke. Iliad1, 317. This criticism, therefore, is directly opposed to your own desire. I wonder, moreover, that you haven’t prevented the sun from shining on men, for he is fire too, and of a far more divine and ardent sort. Do you find fault with him for dissipating your property? I have said my say. Now then, Hermes and Hephaestus, if you think I have said anything wrong take me to task and confute me, and I will plead in reply.
HERMES
It is not an easy matter, Prometheus, to rival such an accomplished sophist. You are lucky, however, that Zeus did not hear you say all this, for I am very sure he would have set sixteen vultures upon you to pull out your vitals, so eloquently did you accuse him in seeming to defend yourself. But I am surprised that as you are a prophet you did not know in advance that you would be punished for all this.
PROMETHEUS
I did know it, Hermes, and I also know that I shall be set free again; before long someone will come from Thebes, a brother of yours,Heracles. to shoot down the eagle which you say will fly to me.
