Epeisodion 1
Electra
You handmaidens who set our house in order, since you are here as my attendants in this rite of supplication,
give me your counsel on this: what should I say while I pour these offerings of sorrow? How shall I find gracious words, how shall I entreat my father? Shall I say that I bring these offerings to a loved husband from a loving
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wife—from my own mother? I do not have the assurance for that, nor do I know what I should say as I pour this libation onto my father’s tomb. Or shall I speak the words that men are accustomed to use: To those who send these honors may he return benefits—
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a gift, indeed, to match their evil?Their evil is unexpectedly substituted for their good. The question is ironical, since it was natural for a Greek to return evil for evil (cp. 123).
Or, in silence and dishonor, even as my father perished, shall I pour them out for the earth to drink and then retrace my steps, like one who carries refuse away from a rite, hurling the vessel from me with averted eyes?
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In this, my friends, be my fellow-counsellors. For we cherish a common hatred within our house. Do not hide your counsel in your hearts in fear of anyone. For the portion of fate awaits both the free man and the man enslaved by another’s hand.
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If you have a better course to urge, speak!
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Chorus
In reverence for your father’s tomb, as if it were an altar, I will speak my thoughts from the heart, since you command me.
Electra
Speak, even as you revere my father’s grave.
Chorus
While you pour, utter benedictions for loyal hearts.
Electra
And to whom of those dear to me should I address them?
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Chorus
First to yourself, then to whoever hates Aegisthus.
Electra
Then for myself and for you also shall I make this prayer?
Chorus
That is for you, using your judgment, to consider now for yourself.
Electra
Then whom else should I add to our company?
Chorus
Remember Orestes, though he is still away from home.
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Electra
Well said! You have indeed admonished me thoughtfully.
Chorus
For the guilty murderers now, mindful of—
Electra
What should I say? Instruct my inexperience, prescribe the form.
Chorus
Pray that some divinity or some mortal may come to them—
Electra
As judge or as avenger, do you mean?
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