Stasimon 6
[Choral 5]
We have been deprived of defenders.
Chorus
Ionia’s people shrink not from the spear.
1025
Xerxes
They are a war-like people. I have lived to behold a calamity I never expected.
Chorus
Are you speaking of the routed multitude which manned your ships?
Xerxes
And I rent my robe at the disastrous event.
1030
Xerxes
No, far worse than alas.
Chorus
Yes, for twofold and threefold—
Xerxes
Pain to us, but exultation to our enemies
Chorus
Yes, and our strength has been maimed.
1035
Xerxes
I am stripped of my escort.
Chorus
By the disasters of your comrades upon the sea.
[Choral 6]
Weep, weep over our calamity, and depart to your homes.
Chorus
Alas, alas, woe, woe!
Xerxes
Cry aloud now in response to me.
1040
Chorus
A wretched offering from the wretched to the wretched.
Xerxes
Cry out, tuning your strain to mine.
Chorus
Oh, oh! That which has happened is grievous indeed.
Alas, for I too share in your sorrow.
1045
Xerxes
Strike, strike, and groan for my sake.
