Epeisodion 4
Prometheus
I will tell you plainly all that you would like to know,
not weaving riddles, but in simple language, since it is right to speak openly to friends. Look, I whom you see am Prometheus, who gave fire to mankind.
610
Io
O you who have shown yourself a common benefactor of mankind, wretched Prometheus, why do you suffer so?
Prometheus
I have only just now finished lamenting my own calamities.
615
Io
You will not then do this favor for me?
Prometheus
Say what it is you wish; for you can learn all from me.
Io
Tell me who has bound you fast in this ravine.
Prometheus
Zeus by his will, Hephaestus by his hand.
Io
And for what offence do you pay the penalty?
620
Prometheus
It suffices that I have made clear to you this much and no more.
Io
No, also tell me the end of my wandering—what time is set for wretched me.
Prometheus
It would be better not to know than to know, in your case.
Io
I beg you, do not hide from me what I am doomed to suffer.
625
Prometheus
No, it is not that I do not want to grant your request.
Io
Why then your reluctance to tell me everything?
Prometheus
I am not unwilling; but I hesitate to crush your spirit.
Io
Do not be more kind to me than I myself desire.
Prometheus
Since you insist, I must speak. Listen, then.
630
Chorus
No, not yet. Grant us too a portion of the pleasure. Let us first inquire the story of her affliction and let her with her own lips relate the events that brought horrid calamity upon her. Then let her be instructed by you as to the toils still to come.
Prometheus
It is for you, Io, to grant them this favor, especially since they are your father’s sisters. For it is worthwhile to indulge in weeping and in wailing over evil fortunes when one is likely to win the tribute of a tear from the listener.
635
