Stasimon 5
[Choral]
Let us honor Bacchus with the dance, let us raise a shout for what has befallen
Chorus
Pentheus, descendant of the serpent, who assumed female attire and the wand, the beautiful thyrsos—certain death—and a bull was the leader of his calamity.
1155
Kadmean Bacchae, you have accomplished a glorious victory, but one that brings woe and tears. It is a noble contest to cover one’s dripping hands with the blood of one’s own son.
1160
Chorus Leader
But, for I see Pentheus’ mother Agave coming home, her eyes contorted, receive the revel of the god of joy!
1165
Chorus
Why do you excite me, oh?
Agave
I am bringing home from the mountain a
freshly cut tendril to the house, blessed prey.
1170
Chorus
I see it and will accept you as a fellow reveler.
Agave
I caught this young wild lion cub without snares,
Agave
The honor is mine first.
I am called blessed Agave in the revels.
1180
Agave
His other offspring took hold of this beast after me, after me. This is a lucky catch!
Agave
Share in the feast then.
Chorus
What? I share in the feast, wretched woman?
Agave
The bull is young; his cheek is just growing downy under his soft-haired crest.
1185
Chorus
Yes, his hair looks like a wild beast’s.
Agave
Bacchus, a wise huntsman,
wisely set the Maenads against this beast.
1190
Chorus
Our lord is a hunter.
Chorus
And your son Pentheus, too—
1195
Agave
Will praise his mother who has caught this lion-like prey.
1195
Agave
And extraordinarily caught.
Agave
I am delighted, for I have performed great—yes, great—and notable deeds on this hunt.