, R a a S' / N t S C L L THE ILIAD OF HOMER VOLUME TWO 1 THE ILIAD OF HOMER TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH HEXAMETER VERSE BY PRENTISS CUMMINGS AN ABRIDGMENT Which Includes all the Main Story and the Most Celebrated Passages BOSTON COLLEGE LIBRARY CHESTNUT HILL, MASS. IN TWO VOLUMES Volume Two BOSTON LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY 1910 Copyright , 1910 , By Prentiss Cummings. All rights reserved 131621 THE UNIVERSITY PRESS, CAMBRIDGE, U.S.Ar V/" CONTENTS VOLUME TWO Page Book XII.253 Book XYI.282 Book XVII ..314 Book XVIII.343 Book XIX.381 Book XXII.398 Book XXIII.433 Book XXIV.445 Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon. 499 1 o HOMER’S ILIAD BOOK XII 1 Thus, in camp, the son of Menoitios, mighty Pa- troklos, Tended Eurypylos wounded; outside, the Argives and Trojans Fought in tumultuous fight; nor long was the moat, nor the rampart, Built to protect the Danaan ships with the ditch run about it, Fated to last; for hecatombs none had they burned the immortals, Winning their aid for defence of the camp with its manifold booty. Saving the gods build the wall they labor vainly that build it. Only while Hector was living, and wrath in Achilles persisted, Only while still undestroyed was the opulent city of Priam, 1 The discouragement expressed by the Argives at the end of the preceding book is hardly justified by the facts. This book which brings the ships into danger is therefore important to the story, since it affords adequate reason why Achilles should relent in part, as he did. 254 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII That long endured, and only that long, the wall of the Argives. Nay, when the flower of the Trojans were dead, and many Achaians, — Even of them but a remnant was left. — and the city of Priam Fell after ten years’ siege, and the Argives sailed for their homesteads, Right then, planning to wash it away, Poseidon and Phoibos Turned proud rivers against it; and Phoibos Apollo united All that flow seaward from Ida; and nine days’ time on the ramparts Dashed he the power of the current; and Zeus, in order to aid them, Rained without ceasing; and, trident in hand, earth- shaking Poseidon Taking the lead, thrust into the streams the mighty foundations Builded of beams and of rocks, there laid by the toil¬ ing Achaians, Leaving the vast shore smooth as of old by the Hellespont-eddies. When he had covered the beach with its wonted sand- heaps, the rivers Turned he to flow once more where the fair streams wandered aforetime. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 255 This for an after day, but now the battle and war- din Blazed round a firm-built wall, with rattle incessant of missiles Beating the beams of the towers; and behind them cowered the Argives, Smit by the lash of Zeus and fear of man-slaying Hector. Otherwise he — he fought as aforetime with might of a tempest; Even as when, amid huntsmen and dogs, a boar or a lion Wheeleth, exulting in might, as the men stand hud¬ dled together Facing and hurling their spears; but his haughty heart feareth nothing, Taketh no thought of flight, and death only quelleth his courage; Often he turneth and maketh assault on the lines of the huntsmen, And, wherever his onset is made, men scatter before him; So, to and fro dashed Hector to spots where com¬ rades were gathered, Bidding them march through the moat. Not even the swift-footed horses Dared it, but stopped at the uttermost edge, and stood there and snorted, 256 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Scared by its width — and leap it they could not, go through it they would not, Seeing along it on both sides the banks overhung; and above them Planted were sharpened stakes, there placed by the Danaan soldiers, Close together and huge, ’gainst hostile onset a bulwark. Into this ditch’t were not easy for horses, a chariot drawing, Safely to enter; the footmen, for all that, were minded to try it. Right then Polydamas stopped, and said to impetu¬ ous Hector: — ■ 1 “Hector and others, ye leaders of Troy and of men in alliance, Very unwise is our thought to drive through the trench with our horses; Hard, right hard is the moat to be crossed, for pali¬ sades sharpened Stand in it thick, and beyond them ariseth the wall of the Argives. There it is nowise fit to go down and battle with horses, Being so cramped, and it strikes me a treacherous spot to be caught in. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 257 True, if high-thundering Zeus, being bent on aiding the Trojans, Meaneth the Danaans ill and to bring them to utter extinction, Surely no man could wish more than I, and the sooner the better, Even their names might die afar from horse-nour¬ ishing Argos. But — should they drive us back, and we in stam¬ pede from the shipping, Tumble into this ditch, and the Danaans flank us, I fear me Messenger even would never get home to tell our destruction. Comrades, do as I say: let the squires stay here with the horses; We then on foot in a heavy-armed mass will all follow Hector, Sure that the foe will give back if, indeed, in the toils of destruction.” Thus Polydamas spake, and his wise word Hector accepting Straightway out from the car sprang down to the ground in his armor; Nor did the rest of the Trojans remain in their chariots longer, vol. ii — 17 258 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Nay, every man sprang out when he saw the exam¬ ple of Hector. Each, then, ordered his driver to stay back, holding his horses Orderly there by the trench; and they, dividing and arming, Gathered in five strong bands, and followed their several leaders. « Hector’s troop was the first, with Polydamas match¬ less to aid him, Greatest in number and boldest to act, and also most eager Breach to make in the wall and fight in the Argive encampment. With them Kebnones went, third leader; behind with the horses One less able to fight than Kebriones Hector had left there. Over the second was Paris, Alkathoos, also Agenor; Helenos captained the third, and stately Deipho- bus aided, Both being children of Priam; third aid was Asios mighty, Asios, Iiyrtakos’ son, whose tall sorrel horses had brought him Hither to Troy from Arisbe, a town on the river Selleis. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 259 Over the fourth was a leader bold, the son of An- chises, Even Aineias, whose aids were two, the sons of Antenor, Akmas, Archelochus strong, and both efficient in warfare. Over the fifth, the far-famed allies, Sarpedon was leader, Having Glaukos as aid and warlike Asteropalos, Clearly his best next after himself: but he was unequalled. All five, when they had fitted each other with buck¬ lers of bull’s-hide, Marched on the Danaans straight, and without any fears of the issue, Deeming that they would give way, and fall straight back on the shipping. Now all the rest of the Trojans and famed allies, one excepted, Followed the prudent advice of Polydamas, mighty in counsel, All save Asios, Hyrtakos’ son, who objected to leaving Horses and charioteer, but with them advanced on the shipping; Fool, for back from the ships to wind-swept Ilios never, 260 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Never was he on chariot borne to return with his horses — Fate too soon overtook him, the fate men shrink at the name of, Under the spear of Deukalion’s son, Idomeneus princely. Asios led the assault on the left of the ships, where the Argives Drove to camp from the field with horses and chari¬ ots daily; At it he drave with horses and car, and the doors of the gateway Found he unshut, and the long bar down; men were holding them open Haply comrades to save who were straggling back from the battle. Straight, and with mind alert, he guided his horses right forward, Followers shouting amain; for they thought the Achaians before them Longer would not hold out, but beat a retreat on the shipping, — Fools, two men most valiant in fight they found in the gateway, Men of the Lapithai strain, both spearmen stout and courageous; Son of ancient Peirithoos one of them, strong Poly- poites, Book XII HOMER'S ILIAD 261 One Leoriteus, mighty as Ares, the hated of mor¬ tals. Both in front of the ponderous gates stood sted- fast as oak-trees, High-crested chiefs of the mountains, which bide the winds and the rain-storms Ever, their great strong roots unbroken and framed in the greensward; So these twain in their stout right arms confiding, and stedfast, Faced great Asios driving against them and feared not and fled not. Straight 'gainst the well-built wall the Trojans marched, and their sounding Targes lifted on high as they came with tumultuous shouting. Inside the gates the twain were bidding the mail- clad Achaians Stay and defend the ships; but seeing the wall was in danger, Trojans rushing against it and Danaans shouting and fleeing, Forth from the gates they dashed, and fought in front of the gateway Fiercely as two wild boars which to men and dogs in the mountains, Coming a noisy throng, give warm reception and, charging 262 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII This way and that, they shatter about them the trees of the forest, Tearing them out by the roots, and, while life lasteth within them, Gnashing of tusks ceaseth not; so, loud on the breasts of the warriors Rattled the bronze missile-hit, for a mighty fight they were waging, Trusting their might and their friends up above, who down from the towers Hurled huge stones in defence of themselves, their camp, and their shipping. Thick as the snow-flakes fall to the earth when boisterous storm-winds. Shaking the louring clouds, sweep down on the fields of the farmer, So from their hands flew missiles alike from Achaian and Trojan, So on helmet and shield fell huge stones, crashing and grinding. Then, confounded, in wrath unforgetting, spake Asios, saying: — “ Verily, All-father Zeus, thou, too, art an absolute liar, Grown such; for surely, I said in my heart, the Danaan heroes Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 263 Never will stand their ground ’gainst might and courage like ours; Yet, as an army of wriggling wasps, or bees by a roadside, Leave not their hollow home but, fierce in defence of their children, Stay and fight with the hunter; so these, tho’ two against many, Think not of leaving the gates, and of living and dying they reck not.” Thus he said; but his outcry the plan of Zeus did not alter, Seeing the glory of taking the wall he intended for Hector. While thus defending the gate they were stripping the arms from the fallen, Still the band led by Llector with wise Polydamas, aiding — Band the largest and boldest in fight, as well as most eager Both to break thro’ the wall, and burn the Danaan shipping — Lingered aback by the trench; for, just as they started to cross it, Lo, a bird flew over their heads — a warning of evil — 264 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XII Even a high-soaring eagle which skirted the left of the army, Bearing a snake, a blood-red snake, in its talons — a monster, Living and struggling still, and the joy of battle forgat not; Nay, for backward it writhed and bit the breast of the eagle Close by the neck; unnerved by the pain its captor then dropped it Down to the earth; as it fell in the midst where the soldiers were gathered, Off with a scream flew the bird, to the blasts of the winds a companion. Full of concern were the Trojans on seeing the slip¬ pery serpent Lying amid them, a portent of Zeus who wieldeth the aegis. Straightway Polydamas halted, and said to impet¬ uous Hector: — “ Hector, thou takest it ill if ever I speak in as¬ sembly, E’en tho’ my counsel be good, and plain speech faithfully spoken Thinkest exceedeth a plain man’s right, nor brook it in council, Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 265 Still less brook it in war — save it feedeth thy mas¬ terful spirit; Yet, once more will I say what the time and duty demandeth. Let us not go on our raid to destroy the Danaan shipping: Ill will it prove in the end, I am sure, for just as we started Came this bird, which is clearly a portent of ill to the Trojans, Even a high-soaring eagle which skirted the left of the army, Bearing a blood-red snake in its claws, a monster still living, Yet it abandoned its prey or ever it came to its eyrie, . Neither accomplished its end of making it food for its nestlings. Even so we, tho’ we carry by storm their gates and defences, Even tho’, worsted, the Argives should beat a re¬ treat to the shipping, Yet will our homeward march be wild retreat and disorder; Many a Trojan, I ween, shall we leave behind us — the fallen — Slain by the Danaan spear in stubborn defence of their barracks. 266 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Thus would any true soothsayer say who knoweth his business, Hath true knowledge of signs, and winneth faith from the people.” Grim was his look as for answer outspake great crest-waving Hector: — “Truly, this that thou sayest, Polydamas, pleaseth me little. Thou hast the wit to harangue on the opposite side and the better. Granting this counsel of thine be in downright ear¬ nestness spoken, Surely the gods themselves have blasted thy natural genius, Thou who bid’st us forget high-thundering Zeus and his counsel, All he hath promised to me and by nod of his head hath confirmed it. Long-winged birds are the sages thou biddest us look to for guidance — Things I heed not, nor care for them either, however they wander, Whether they go to the right toward the east and the sun as he riseth, Or, if it hap, sail away to the left and the westering darkness. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 267 We give obedience due to mighty Zeus and his counsel, Him who reigneth o’er all, over mortals and also immortals. That one omen is best which biddeth us fight for our country.” Suiting action to word he led the way, and his soldiers Followed with wondrous shouts; and Zeus, great lord of the thunder, Sent from the mountains of Ida a wild tornado to aid them, Driving the dust straight down on the ships, and the Danaans’ spirit Wheedled away, while victory marched with the Trojans and Hector. Full of self-confidence they, on their might and his omens reliant, Made unceasing assault on the mighty wall of the Argives. Beams of the towers they kept dragging away, the battlements shattered, And, on the posts in front of the wall, they pried with persistence, Posts the Achaians had driven to serve as a stay of the earth-works. These they kept pulling down, and to storm the Danaan ramparts 268 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Hoped without ceasing; but even in this strait the Danaans flinched not, No, but with bufl’s-hide shields having closed the battlements missing, Cast down missiles in showers on the foe coming under the rampart. Everywhere over the wall the Aiases ran without ceasing, Constantly giving commands, and rousing the might of the Argives, One man by hearty approval, another sternly rebuk¬ ing, Never mincing their words if a man kept aloof from the fighting — Saying: “Ye Argive chiefs and other subordinate rulers, Yea, and men in the ranks less valiant, (for nowise are all men Equal in war,) there is work enough here for all of your powers. This every man of you knows without telling: there¬ fore let no man, Turning his back at the shouts of the foe, give ground toward the shipping; No, forge well to the front yourselves, and encourage the others, Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 269 Hoping that haply Olympian Zeus, the god of the lightning, Grant us to ward the attack, and drive the foe to the city.” Thus, with rallying cry, both urged the Achaians to battle. Then, o’er the warring men flew stones as thickly as snow-flakes Fall on a Winter’s day, when Zeus, who guideth the seasons, Starteth a snow-storm, to man displaying the mis¬ siles of heaven; So, with the winds all laid, he maketh continuous down-pour, Snoweth till covered are hill-tops high, and tower¬ ing foreland, Covered the flowery plain and the fertile field of the farmer, Aye, till the grey sea’s havens are white, and even the sea-beach Saving as swept by the breakers; and all the rest of the landscape Lieth enswathed in its wrappings of down, when the snow-fall is heavy; Such was the volley of stones, alike from besieged and besieger, 270 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Some being at Trojans cast, some from Trojans cast at Achaians, And, the wall all along, reechoed the thunder of battle. Nowise, at least not then, would the Trojans and glorious Hector Ever have broken the gates of the wall, or the pon¬ derous cross-bar, Save that his son, Sarpedon, dread Zeus who govern- eth all things Sent on the Danaan host like a lion on crumpled¬ horned cattle. Straightway he lifted before him his full-orbed shield, which the bronze-smith Hammered in beautiful bronze-work, and, inside,; many a bull’s-hide Stitched to the radiate framework of gold that com¬ pleted the circle. This he lifted before him, and two spears brandished, and forward Rushed with the headlong rush of a lion that lairs in the mountains Long anhungered for meat, and his reckless spirit impelleth Dauntless attack on a well-fenced fold for the sheep shut within it. Nothing he careth for dogs, nor men with spears that defend it, Book XII HOMER'S ILIAD 271 Never thinketh of beating retreat the assault un¬ attempted, No, but with desperate bound he seizeth his prey, or is smitten Dead, while forcing the fight, by a dart from the hand of a marksman; Even so then his impetuous heart bade godlike Sarpedon March on the wall and its battlements rend, and storm it in triumph. Straightway to Glaukos he spake, the son of Hip- polochos, saying: — “ Glaukos, why in our land hold we the chiefest of honors, Seats of honor, and meats, and wines in generous wine-cups? Wherefore to us granted noble demesnes on the banks of the Xanthos, Beautiful orchards and vineyards, and many a wheat¬ bearing acre? Now in return it behooves us to stand in the forefront of danger, Even the Lykian van, and the fight face where it is hottest, So that our followers bold, beholding, may say, and with meaning: — ‘Not inglorious, surely, are these our Lykian masters: 272 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII True, they are kings, and eat fat sheep, and their wines are the choicest — Yes, but they fight in the front, and their valor is great as their station.’ Comrade, I tell thee true, if, this one battle escap¬ ing, Death did not face us still, and age and decrepitude face us, Neither would I myself go forth to fight with the foremost, No, nor urge thee on to man-ennobling battle. But, as it is, (for the minions of death are lurking all round us, Myriad, such that no mortal can shun, much less can escape them,) On to the front, be it victory won, or a warrior’s death-bed!” Thus spake Sarpedon, and Glaukos complied, and, turning beside him Both marched straight on the foe with the Lykians pressing behind them. Watching the movement Menestheus, the son of Peteos, trembled, Seeing his tower was the station they drave at, threat¬ ening ruin. Anxiously scanned he the parapet over to see if an Argive HOMER’S ILIAD 273 Book XII Leader was there, to ward from his comrades the danger impending; On it he noticed the Aiases twain, insatiate warriors, Standing alert, and Teucer, just come from the station, was nigh them. Call as he might he could never be heard, so great was the uproar — War-cries rising to heaven, and smiting of shields and of helmets Crested, and pounding the gates; for all were now shut, and the Trojans Standing anigh were mightily seeking to break them and enter. Hastily, now, to Aias he sent the herald, Thootes , 1 Saying: — “Go on the run and summon Aias, Thootes. Bring them both if thou canst, for here disaster is threatened, Seeing right hither are pressing the Lykians, men who aforetime Press persistently on, and they charge with infuriate ardor. If, over there as well, is heavy fighting and danger, Yet, without fail, tho’ alone, let stout Telamonian Aias Come to the rescue, and Teucer come with him, the archer unerring.” 1 Pronounced Tho 6 tes. VOL. II —18 274 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Thus he said, and the herald heard, and, straight¬ way complying, Hurried away on the run to the wall of the mail-clad Achaians, Halted beside the Aiases twain, and instantly shouted: — “Ho, there, Aiases both, ye chiefs of the mail-clad Achaians, King Menestheus is urgent that you come over where he is, Wishing your aid in the struggle, albeit your stay be the shortest — Both if you possibly can — for there disaster is threatened, Seeing a heavy attack the Lykian chieftains are leading, Men who aforetime have ever pressed on in des¬ perate battle. If, here also, is heavy assault, and fight is beginning, Then he desireth at least that stout Telamonian Aias Come tho’ alone, and Teucer come with him, the bow¬ man unerring.” Thus he said, and, complying, spake great Telamonian Aias Straightway in winged words to his namesake, son of Oileus: — Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 275 “Aias, do you twain here, both you and strong Lycomedes, Stand your ground, and the Danaans urge to fight to the utmost. I must comply, and go over yonder, and help in the struggle; Then will I hurry straight back as soon as the danger is over.” Suiting action to word, away Telamonian Aias Went, and Teucer went with him, a son of Telamon also. When they had come to the tower of great-souled Menestheus, and entered, Sorely beset they found them, and over the battle¬ ments climbing Fierce as a gruesome tornado the Lykian leaders and princes. Then, in fight, the combatants grappled, shouting their war-cries. First to despatch his man was great Telamonian Aias, Slaying the comrade of mighty Sarpedon, great- souled Epikles, Smiting him down with a jagged stone, by the battle¬ ments lying, Aye, and a huge one. No man in his prime with both hands could lift it, 276 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Such as are men of to-day; but Aias lifted and cast it, Brake in the fourfold crest, and smashed his head to a jelly. Down like a diver he dropped from the lofty tower, and the spirit Left him; and Teucer, down from the wall let fly, and his arrow Glaukos hit in the shoulder who bared it, fronting the battle, Making him cease from the fight; and back he sprang from the rampart, Slyly, that none of the foe might see he was hit and revile him. Soon as he knew it, Sarpedon was grieved at the loss of his comrade, Yet his joy in the fight he forgat not, but making a spear-cast Hit Alkmaon , 1 begotten of Thestor. Withdrawing his weapon Headlong Alkmaon fell down, and his bronze arms rattled about him. Then, with his mighty hands Sarpedon, the parapet seizing, Gave it a pull, and the mass gave way completely, above it Leaving the rampart bare and a roadway opened for many. 1 Aik m& on. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 277 Aias and Teucer then faced him together. The shaft of the latter Spent its force on the shield-strap that gleamed on the breast of the hero — Zeus preserved him from death that he might not fall by the shipping. Aias sprang on with a cast at his shield, but through it the spear-point Passed not, but force of the blow made him stagger, and halt in his onrush. Back he withdrew just a step from the parapet; yet did he nowise Beat a retreat, for his soul was aflame, and victory hoped for. Wheeling about he called to the stalwart Lykians, saying: — “Lykians, why so remiss! why slack in the fury of onslaught! Hard is the task for me, however stoutly I struggle, All alone to break through and force a way to the shipping. Up, then, and at them! the greater our number the better the finish.” Thus he said, and his men, abashed at reproof from their captain, Rushed still more to support him, and pressed on harder than ever. 278 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Over against them the Argives together massed their battalions, Forming the wall inside, and great was the task set before them, Seeing that neither the Lykians stout could the Danaan bulwarks Break, nor through them a passage could force to the enemy’s shipping, Nor, any more, could the Danaan spearmen the Lykian phalanx Drive away from the wall whereon they once had a footing. E’en as a couple of men engaged in the fixing of landmarks, Standing with measuring rods in their hands, in a field that is common, Strive in a narrow space that the mark make equal division, So the parapet, now, the parties divide, and across it Trojan fought with Achaian, and pounded the buck¬ lers of bull’s-hide, Full-orbed, held in front of the breast, and the flut¬ tering targes. Many a fighter was pierced by the pitiless bronze thro’ the body — All who turned in the fight and their backs exposed to the spear-thrust — Book XII HOMER'S ILIAD 279 Aye, thro' the very shield passed the spear with a death-wound to many. Blood of men besprinkled the towers, and the para¬ pet covered, Blood of the combatants both, alike of Achaian and Trojan. Yet, tho’ fiercely they strove they prevailed not to rout the Achaians; Nay, but as woman who spinneth for hire, yet is honest and open, Poiseth the scales till weight and her yarn shall bal¬ ance exactly, Wishing her dues to win for her children a scanty subsistence, So both parties held out, and neither had any ad¬ vantage, Till, of a sudden, dread Zeus gave preeminent glory to Hector — Glory of being the first to break the wall of the Argives. Loudly he called, and all over the field was heard of the Trojans: — “Onward, chivalrous Trojans! Break through the wall of the Argives! Drive on the ships the god-given fire that mortal can quench not!" 280 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XII Such was his rallying cry, and the Trojans heard, and with spirit Made a dash for the wall all together, some of them climbing Up by the buttresses, sharp spears holding, and glorious Hector Seized and lifted a stone which lay in front of the gateway, Thick at the bottom and sharp at the top, a stone so unwieldy Hardly two men of the stoutest could lift it, and load on a wagon — Men as mortals now are — but alone he easily swung it. Like as a shepherd the fleece of a ram can easily carry, One hand only sufficing, and findeth the burden a light one, Even so Hector uplifted the stone, and easily bore it Straight at the double doors that guarded the stubborn-set portals, Fastened within by cross-bars twain, and heavily bolted. Drawing anigh he stood and, bracing himself for the effort, Setting his legs apart to give full force to the stonecast, Smote the gates in the middle, and off brake both of the hinges. Book XII HOMER’S ILIAD 281 Well inside of the gates flew the ponderous stone, for the cross-bars Failed and, bellowing loudly, the great gates parted asunder Under the rush of the stone; and in sprang glorious Hector, Black in his brow as night, and awful the gleam of his armor. Mortal man could not face him as in he sprang through the gateway, Holding two spears in his hands, and his keen eyes blazing like fire. Wheeling about he called to the Trojans in all their battalions, Bidding them over the wall; and they, with his orders complying, Some leaped over, and some rushed in by the gates; and the Argives Fled to the hollow ships in unspeakable rout and confusion. BOOK XVI Such was the desperate fight for the stately ship , 1 as Patroklos Came to Achilles, the Myrmidon’s lord, and halted beside him, Hot tears streaming unstinted adown as a fount of black water Poureth its violet flood down rock that goat never clambered. On him in secret compassion looked swift-footed godlike Achilles, Yet he in winged words proceeded to banter him, saying: — “Why these tears, Patroklos, as sobbeth a little girl baby Running her mother beside as she beggeth up to be taken, 1 At the end of the omitted books (Books XIII, XIV, and XV) the Trojans are attacking the ship of Protesilaos, the first Achaian killed on landing. Otherwise the parts omitted are in no wise essential to the main story. The most in¬ teresting incident of the omitted material appears at the end of the two-volume edition of this translation as an episode, “ Zeus, Hera and Poseidon.”, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 283 Fastens herself on the gown of the mother, and hin¬ ders her going, Weeping, wild-eyed and wistful till, lo, her mother uplifts her, — Like to that baby, Patroklos, thou pourest thy piteous tears. Hast thou unhappy disclosure for me or my Myrmi¬ don subjects? Bad news is there from Phthia which thou hast heard and no other? Living at last accounts was Menoitios, scion of Aktor; Living Aiak^ides Peleus at peace with the Myrmidon peoples — Ample cause for our grief, no doubt, if either hath perished. Ah, can it be, Patroklos, thy tears are shed for the Argives Falling their ships beside, and all for their own transgression? Out with it! nothing keep back! I, too, would share in thy sorrow.” Then, and heavily groaning, thou answeredst, knightly Patroklos: — “Oh, Achilles Peleides, thou mightiest far of Acha- ians, 284 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Be ye not angry, such direful distress hath befallen the Argives. Lo, now, all of our heroes aforetime accounted the bravest Helpless lie at the ships, for all have been hit and disabled. Smitten, for one, is Tydeides, the mighty in fight, Diomedes; Wounded, moreover, is spear-famed Odysseus and King Agamemnon; Valiant Eurypylos, too, is hit in the thigh with an arrow. These men leeches learned in drugs are carefully tending, Healing their wounds; yet thou sittest here impas¬ sive, Achilles. Never may anger seize me like this thou so carefully nursest, Stedfast for ill! How, pray, will men of the future regard thee If, in their sorest need, thou failest to save the Achaians? Pitiless man! No father to thee was chivalrous Peleus, Thetis could never have borne thee; the stormy sea was thy mother, Rocks adamantine begat thee withal, so hard is thy nature. Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 285 If, unknown to thy friends, thou dreadest some warning from heaven, Something thy care-taking mother disclosed, and Zeus hath forbidden, Then send me, and at once, and the rest of the Myr¬ midons with me, Light to bring to the Danaan arms in their gloom of disaster. Give me moreover this harness of thine to gird on my shoulders So that the Trojans may think I am thou, and desist from the onset, Giving our hard-pressed comrades-in-arms a moment to breathe in, All worn out as they are; and short are the respites of battle. Easily we who are fresh can make men weary with fighting Beat a retreat to the town, and save our ships and encampment.” Thus he begged and besought and, all unwitting, he knew not Death and the gloomy grave was the awful boon he was asking. Greatly stirred was Achilles, and bitterly answered him, saying: — 286 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI “Ah me, Zeus-born Patroklos; thy words are wild and unmeaning. Warning from heaven withholdeth me not, nor bid¬ ding my mother Bringeth from Zeus; but bitter distress my heart hath invaded, Knowing a man absolutely my equal hath flouted and robbed me, Seizing the woman my valor had earned and the army awarded. Her, the fruit of my spear when I captured a fortified city, King Agamemnon Atreides took from me in haughty derision Just as if I were an alien unhonored; but still I remember What’s done cannot be undone; I may not be angry forever. True, I always declared my wrath should withhold me from action Till, to my very ships, came savage war-shout and battle; Yet do thou in mine armor the Myrmidons lead to the rescue If, as thou sayest, a storm-cloud of Trojans beats hard on the shipping, Driving before it the cowering Argives to herd on the seashore, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 287 Aye, and the city of Troy all cometh against them, emboldened Seeing that longer they face not the visor that front- eth my helmet. Soon would they flee, and their bodies be clogging the streams, had Atreides Dealt with me kindly; but now his army must fight for existence. Not in Diomed’s hands, the son of Tydeus the mighty, Rageth the spear any more to avert their doom from the Argives, No, nor hear I the voice of Atreides, shouting the war-cry Out of his hated mouth; but the voice of man-slaying Hector Breaketh about me, exhorting the Trojans, whose outcries of triumph Fill every part of the field as they drive the Achaians in battle. Wroth as I am, Patroklos, to save our ships from destruction Lay on lustily, smiting the Trojans, lest ravening fire Burn up the fleet indeed, and we lose the return we have longed for. Yet give heed; I consent; but understand me on one point, 288 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI So that thou lose not for me at the hands of my fellow Achaians Honor and glory exceeding, but still they the beau¬ teous damsel Send me again, and provide me with glorious gifts in addition. When thou hast rescued the ships return forthwith; and if Hera’s Lord, high-thundering Zeus, should cover thee over with glory, Go not beyond this apart from me, and pursue thy advantage ’Gainst the war-loving Trojans, for thus wilt thou minish mine honor. Nay, more, this for thine own sake, should joy of battle inflame thee, Hot for the fray, and maddened by triumph in slay¬ ing the Trojans, March not against their city, lest one of the ever- existing Gods of Olympos should meet thee, for lo, far-smiting Apollo Loveth them well; nay, turn thee again, as soon as thou bringest Light to the ships; and then let the rest in the plain do the fighting. Would that, so help me Zeus, Athena, and Phoibos Apollo, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 289 Not one man of them all might escape, be he Trojan or Argive, Only we twain might survive and Troy’s high coronal ravish.” Tell me the story, ye Muses, who dwell in Olympian mansions, Just how it was that the fire first fell on the Danaan shipping. Aias’s ashen spear great Hector, drawing anigh him, Smote with his mighty sword on the shaft just back of the spear-head, Breaking it right off short; and this Telamonian Aias Brandished thus in his hands, — a useless weapon, — and from him Far away on the earth fell the bronze point, lustily ringing. Then, in his honest heart, did Aias know with a shudder Gods were at work, and that Zeus who filleth heaven with his thunder Reft him of use in the conflict and victory wished for the Trojans. Back he drew from the darts; and the Trojans unwearying fire VOL. ii. —19 290 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Cast on the ship, and unquenchable flame streamed quickly about her. Thus at the ship the fire was busy at work, and Achilles Smote both thighs with his hands, and called to Pa- troklos, saying: — “Up, now, Zeus-born Patroklos, thou furious driver of horses! Growing apace is the roar of devouring fire by the galleys. Up, lest they take the ships, and escape be open no longer! On with the harness! be quick! and I will assemble the people.” Thus he spake, and Patroklos the bright bronze buckled about him, Taking two ponderous spears of his own, not that of Achilles, Seeing Achilles alone of all the Achaians could wield it. Next, Patroklos Automedon ordered to harness the horses, Comrade Patroklos esteemed above all other com¬ panions Next to man-crushing Achilles, and trusty was he as a driver. Straightway under the yoke he led the spirited horses, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 291 Xanthos and Balios, swift as the wind, which the Harpy, Podarge, Bare to the West-wind while grazing a mead by the streams of the ocean. Then, by a side-trace, beside them he fastened Pedasos matchless — Spoil that Achilles had brought when he captured Eetion’s city — Which, though a mortal horse, kept pace with horses immortal. All through the Myrmidon camp, meanwhile, Achilles was going, Warning the soldiers to arm; and the men responded with spirit Like unto ravening wolves with unspeakable strength in their bosoms, Wolves that have slain a great horned stag in the mountains, and rend him Piecemeal; and, eaten their fill, with jaws all red from the slaughter, Eirst having gone to a black-water fount and lapped to repletion, Gallop away, a murderous pack, full-bellied and fearless: So, then, about Patroklos the Myrmidon leaders and princes 292 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Rallied; and mid them was standing, aflame with impetuous ardor, War-wise Achilles, and hurried the chariot-fighters and footmen. Then, when Achilles with soldierly skill had mar¬ shalled his forces All with their leaders, he called them to halt, and sternly addressed them: — “ Myrmidons, see ye forget not the threats ye have threatened the Trojans, Threats ye have made, and complaints ye have made, all the time that mine anger Stayed you from battle, and me ye have blamed, every man of you, saying: — * Bitter, malign son of Peleus, on gall thy mother hath reared thee, Pitiless man, that keepeth in camp thy comrades unwilling; Better take ship and go home since wrath so ill- omened hath seized thee.’ Gathered together in knots ye in this fashion clam¬ ored against me. War’s stern work looks you now in the face which aforetime ye longed for. Prove it! with strenuous hearts charge mightily now on the Trojans! ” Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 293 Thus he spake; and every man’s heart grew strong for the conflict. Closer their serried ranks closed in at the call of their chieftain: Even as when the walls of a palace the stone-mason buildeth, Fitting the stone-work close to forefend the inroad of wind-blast, So fitted helmets and bellying shields interlocking each other, Shield pressing hard upon shield, man man, and helmet on helmet, Aye, and the horse-hair crests on the helmet-ridge as they nodded Hit as they swayed, so nigh one another the soldiers were standing. Front of the Myrmidons all stood two men shining in armor, Knightly Patroklos and with him Automedon, both of them ardent, Fired by a common ambition to fight in the forefront. Achilles Then went back to his camp, and opened the lid of a coffer Beautiful, curious work, which silver-shod Thetis, his mother, Placed on the ship when he sailed, filled full of rai¬ ment and blankets. 294 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI In it a sumptuous goblet he kept, and no man be¬ side him Drank from it ever, and never to god made he from it libation Saving to Zeus, the All-father. And now from the coffer he took it, Cleansed it with sulphur and rinsed it in streams of beautiful water, Next washed his own hands clean, and with sparkling wine filled the goblet. Then in the midst of the court he arose and, making libation, Looked up to heaven and prayed; and Zeus, dread Thunderer, saw him: — 1 “Zeus Dodonaian, Pelasgic, great Sovran who dwellst in remoteness, Ruling from wintry Dodona, and round about thee the Selloi Dwell, and thine oracles utter, with feet unwashen, ground-crouching, Even as once before this I prayed and thou heardst my petition, Honoring me, but chastising the Argives with chas¬ tisement heavy, So once again I implore thee to grant this further entreaty: Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 295 Lo, I remain of myself in the circle of ships, but my comrade Send into battle without me, and many a Myrmi¬ don with him. Grant, O Zeus who watchest afar, that glory attend him, Yea, so strengthen the heart in his bosom that arro¬ gant Hector Also may know if our squire is likewise a master in warfare Even when fighting alone, or hath hands unmatched when he rageth Only when I make infuriate charge in the tumults of Ares. Then, when once from the ships he hath driven this battle and war-cry, Let him return, I pray, unscathed to the swift-faring galleys, Bringing his arms, all told, and all his close-fighting companions.” Thus he entreated in prayer; and Zeus, dread Ar¬ biter, heard him. Half his entreaty the father vouchsafed, and half he denied him: Driving the war and the battle away from the shipping he granted; Scathless return when the battle was over, that was . withholden. 296 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Now, when libation was made and his prayer to the Father was ended, Back to his camp he returned, and the cup laid away in the coffer, Then by the front of his quarters he stood, for his turbulent spirit Longed for the terrible sight as Achaian encountered with Trojan. During this while Patroklos and men, all shining in armor, Marched in the pride of their might straight on till they fell on the Trojans. Like unto wasps which nest by a roadside, and mis¬ chievous children Always are stirring them up, and roguish boys are tormenting, Till, in the end, they make them a common nuisance to all men; So, when a wayfaring man passeth by with no thought to molest them, Every infuriate wasp swarmeth out, full of fight for its children; Such were the Myrmidons then and, with similar spirit and vigor, Came pouring out of the Danaan camp with un¬ quenchable shoutings. POSTON COLLEGE LIBRARY CHESTNUT HILL, MASS. Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 297 Down on the Trojans they fell in a mass; and the shipping about them Echoed their terrible cries and the roar of the shout¬ ing Achaians. Now when the Trojans beheld Menoitios’ son in his valor, Both himself and his squire resplendent in glittering armor, All felt sinking of heart, and the stoutest phalanxes wavered, Thinking that mighty Achilles was come, and his quarrel was ended. All looked this way and that for escape from impend¬ ing destruction. First, with his shining spear, Patroklos directed a spear-cast Straight at the press where the ship was on fire and the throng was the greatest — Even along by the galley of great-souled Protesi- ldos. Noble Pyraichmes he hit, who had led the Paionian horsemen Thither from Amy don, far from the Axios, wide-flow¬ ing river; 298 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Him he smote in the shoulder, the right one, and groaning, Pyraichmes Fell on his back in the dust; and his friends, his Paionian comrades, Scattered and fled, in dread of Patroklos who van¬ quished their greatest. So, from the ships he drave them, and quenched the riotous fire. Left to itself was the ship half burned; and the terrified Trojans Fled with a wondrous cry; and the Danaans forth from their hidings Poured through the camp half lost; and ceaseless their shouts of rejoicing. Like to the change when Zeus, who gathereth light¬ nings together, Brusheth aside from the summit of mighty moun¬ tain a storm-cloud, Suddenly showing its peaks, its jutting cliffs, and its valleys, And, from the rifted heaven, breaketh down the mys¬ terious ether: So gleamed the Danaan hope when fire was dispelled from the shipping, Having a moment to breathe in; for war’s alarms were not over, Seeing the Trojans, though driven in rout, but yield to compulsion. Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 299 The Trojans Finally Give Way Swift as a cloud from Olympos at times cometh into the heavens Sped from the ether divine, when Zeus outspreadeth a tempest, So the Trojans depart from the ships with outcries and panic, Neither in order recrossed they the ditch; but his swift-footed horses Hector bore from the fray with his arms; his people abandoned Sorely were stayed, held back by the ditch that was dug by the Argives. Many swift horses so strained on the car that, to crown the disaster, Off broke the chariot-pole at the butt, and they fled from their masters, — Just behind them Patroklos, who urged the Danaans fiercely, Meaning death to the Trojans; and they with their shoutings and panic Choked all the passable ways as they scattered; and upward a dust-storm Spread forth under the clouds, and forward the clattering horses 300 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Strained on the road toward the city, far, far from the ships and encampment. Whithersoever Patroklos saw rout and disorder the thickest, Thither he drove with a war-shout; and under his axles the Trojans Fell face down from the car, and the car fell rattling over. Straight on over the trench sprang the spirited steeds of Patroklos, Eager to go, and the soul of Patroklos called loudly for Hector, Longing to smite him; but out and away his swift horses bore him. Even as under a tempest the whole black earth lieth stricken When, in Autumn, great Zeus outpoureth his heavi¬ est rain-storm, Venting on mortals his anger: the rivers are full to o’erflowing, Torrents rush from the slopes and eat through many a hillside, Then with a roar and a rush roll thundering down to the ocean, Headlong down from the hills, and the works of the husbandmen perish: So the horses of Troy galloped thundering on to the . city. Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 301 Patroklos Forgets the Warning of Achilles Then to his horses Patroklos called, and Automedon ordered — Lo, his wits were confounded — to drive on after the Trojans, Blinded! for had he but faithfully kept to the word of Achilles, Then had he scaped his doom and grim death’s awful encounter. Mightier, mightier always, the counsels of Zeus than of mortals! Zeus, it was Zeus, who awoke in his heart that fatal ambition. Whom didst thou slay, fond man, when to death the immortals had called thee? First Adrestos, Autonoos next, then Echeklos, Epistor, Perimos, great son of Megas, and Moulios, then Melanippos; Elasos later he slew, and Pyrlartes; these men were fighters, These men fell; but the rest thought only of flight from Patroklos. Right then high-gated Troy had fallen a prey to the Argives Under the hands of Patroklos, whose spear raged wide all about him, 302 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Saving that Phoibos Apollo on Troy’s high towers was standing, Aiding the Trojans, and meaning for him things cursed and baneful. Thrice Patroklos had climbed up the lofty wall on the corner, Thrice Apollo dislodged him, the shining shield of ✓ Patroklos Smiting with hand immortal; but when Patroklos the fourth time Dashed at the wall like a being immortal, Apollo severely Spake, and in winged words, gave stinging rebuke to him, saying: — “Give back, give back, Zeus-born Patroklos! Not under thy spear Fated is Troy, this city of warriors, to sink to its downfall, No, nor Achilles either, a man much greater than thou art.” Thus he spake; and Patroklos retired far, very far backward, Shunning the wrath of the god, far-smiting Apollo. Now, Hector Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 303 Close by the Skaian Gates was holding his storm¬ footed horses, Pondering whether to drive once again into battle, or better Order retreat to the wall; and as thus in his heart he debated, Phoibos Apollo drew nigh in the guise of a mortal, a hero Forceful and mighty, Asios named, Queen Hekabe’s brother, Therefore an uncle of horse-taming Hector, and being moreover Dymas’s son who in Phrygia dwelt by Sangarios River. Taking that honored form, Apollo spake to him, saying: — “Hector, why art thou shrinking from battle? It doth not behoove thee. Would I were so much the stronger than thou as in fact I am weaker; Then right soon to thy hurt were this slinking a coward from battle. Up, then, and straight at Patroklos urge on thy strong-footed horses! At him and slay him! find out if Apollo will victory grant thee.” 304 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Thus spake the god, and departed again in the turmoil of mortals. Then to Kebriones fiery-of-heart called glorious Hector, Bidding him whip up the horses and drive to the fray; but Apollo Plunging into the throng brought dread and dismay to the Argives, Whilst he to Troy and to Hector made glory walk as companion. Hector the rest of the Danaans passed, nor attempted to slay them, Seeking Patroklos only; and he, to earth, when he saw it, Sprang from his chariot down, and held his spear in his left hand, Keeping concealed in the other a stone both heavy and jagged. Bracing himself for the cast he hurled it, not slowly either, No, nor vain was the bolt, but Hector’s charioteer, Bastard son of Priam renowned, Kebriones, hit in the forehead. Both of his brows the stone mashed in, and his eyes from their sockets Fell in the dust before him; and, stunned, he down like a diver Plunged from the chariot strong, and soul from body departed. Book XYI HOMER’S ILIAD 305 Tauntingly then to the dead thou saidest, knightly Patroklos: — “Look, right frisky this fellow! Just see how briskly he diveth! Wide market he could supply if at sea, in diving for oysters, Leaping right down from a ship, be the weather no matter how stormy, Granting the skill he displays by this chariot-leap be a sample. Verily even in Troy the men who are divers are experts.” Whilst he was speaking Patroklos had rushed for Kebrlones hotly, Even as rusheth a lion that, making assault on a sheepfold, Getteth sore hit in the breast, and his very strength is his ruin. Hector, the while, to earth from his chariot sprang to withstand him. Over Kebrlones, then, they fought as a couple of lions Fight on a mountain height when both are haughty of spirit, Both of them hungry, a stag they have slain the prize of the contest; Bo, for Kebrlones’ sake these two dread terrors in battle, vol. ii. — 20 306 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Even Patroklos, Menoitios’ son, and glorious Hector, Panted to slay, and their bronze-shod spears knew nothing of pity. Hector laid hold of Kebrlones’ head, Patroklos his foot, to defend him One, to despoil him the other, and neither let go, and about them Danaans gathered and Trojans, and fought in tumul¬ tuous battle. Even as storm-winds twain, as Euros and Notos contending, Strive in a mountain glen to shake its luxuriant forests, Beat on the beech-tree and ash, and the smooth thin bark of the cornel, Making them drive at each other their long, hard, tapering branches, All with bewildering din from the pounding and crash of the breakage; So the Achaians and Trojans dashed madly the one at the other Slaying and slain, and no one' of the twain even thought of retreating. Many a keen-edged spear fell over Kebrlones fallen, All about him were death-winged shafts flying hot from the bowstring, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 307 Many a ponderous stone smote shields of heroes undaunted, Warring about him; and there in the dust-storm and whirlwind of missiles, Great in his greatness Kebriones lay, and of chivalry dreamed not. Now, till the noontide sun had come to the zenith, the missiles Flew on both sides alike, and the fall of the people was equal; But, when it started its turn at the time for unyoking of oxen, Then, more than fate had decreed, the Achaians pre¬ vailed, and the body Drew both from dart and from Trojan assault, and stripped it of armor; Also Patroklos, athirst for their blood, kept charging the Trojans. Thrice he charged on them then with the swiftness of Ares the war-god, Shouting his terrible war-cry, and nine men thrice were his victims; But, directly he charged with godlike abandon the fourth time, Straightway, then, 0 Patroklos, the end of life glowered upon thee. 308 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Lo, it was Phoibos who met thee in mighty conflict, the Dire One: Coming thou sawest him not, for hidden in darkness he met thee! Halting Patroklos behind, on his shoulders Phoibos Apollo Smote him with downward stroke, and his eyes saw everything whirling. Off from his head flew the helmet, and under the feet of the horses Rolled and rattled away, that glorious helm that aforetime Never was suffered to smear in the dust, but adorned with its splendor Brows of a man divine, of Achilles; but Zeus for the moment i • Gave it to Hector to wear for a space, for destruc¬ tion was nigh him. All the long-shadowed spear in the hands of Patroklos was broken, Heavy and great, bronze-pointed and strong; and off from his shoulders Fell to the ground his man-covering shield with its glittering baldric. Then, too, his mind gave way, and his stalwart limbs, and he stood there Dazed; and a man of the Trojans, who stood close by and beheld him Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 309 Gave him a spear-thrust the shoulders between; his name was Euphorbos, Panthoos’ son, and surpassed all men of his age at the spear-cast, Also in swiftness of foot, and in horsemanship; even that very Day, though unpracticed in chariot fight, and of warfare a learner, Twenty men had from chariot cast, and was first with his weapon Also at thee, O Patroklos, yet gave not thy death¬ blow; his spear First he withdrew, then mixed in with the throng, not even then daring Face Patroklos in fight to the death, though reft of his armor. Then Patroklos, subdued by the blow of the god and the spear-thrust, Shrank back into the Danaan lines, avoiding de¬ struction. Now, when Hector beheld great-hearted Patroklos retreating, Smit with the bronze, he pursued, and, o’ertaking, gave him a spear-thrust, Hitting the belly low down, and drave clean through him the spear-head. 310 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Down he fell with a crash, and sorely the Danaans mourned him. Even as boar untiring when crushed in fight by a lion — Both on a mountain top contending in pride of their prowess Over a little spring where both are bent upon drink¬ ing,— Dieth with many a gasp, overmatched by the strength of the lion, So, on the day of his glory, the mighty son of Menoitios Fell, and Priamides Hector of life by a spear-thrust despoiled him, And, in his pride, thus boasted in winged words o’er the fallen: — “O Patroklos, in fancy thou saidst thou wouldst cap¬ ture my city, Wrest from the women of Troy the day of their freedom forever, Carry them off in thy sea-going ships to the land thou wast born in,.. Fool that thou wert! when before them the swift¬ paced horses of Hector Stretch out their feet for the fray; and I myself with my spear Stand a man of renown, with the war-loving Trojans to back me, Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 311 Warding their doom, and, for thy doom, the kites and the vultures shall eat thee. Ah, unhappy, no service was done thee by mighty Achilles Skulking himself but sending thee forth, and charg¬ ing thee straitly: ‘Never return to the Myrmidon camp, horse-taming Patroklos, Not till thou bringest as trophy the mail of man-slay¬ ing Hector Stained with his blood, and the breast torn through by the spear-cast that slew him.’ That was his fashion of talk, and thou wert a fool and believed him.” Faint and low this answer thou madest him, knightly Patroklos: — “Now is thine hour, 0 Hector, of triumph; victory o’er me Zeus son of Kronos hath given, and Apollo; they have subdued me Easily; lo, it was they who tore from my shoulders the armor. Twenty such men as thou, if all had attacked me together, All had died on the spot — my spear had sufficed to subdue them. I of accursed fate and Leto’s son was the victim, 312 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVI Yea, and of men Euphorbos, and thou wert third in my slaying. One thing more will I tell thee to lay in thy heart and to ponder, — This, that not long, not long, wilt thou live thyself, but already Death is stalking close by thee, and Fate that re¬ lents not, and surely Fall thou must by the hand of Aiak^ides, matchless Achilles.” Thus he spake and was still, and the shadow of death overspread him; Flitting away from his limbs the soul descended to Hades, Wailing over its doom, and manhood leaving and youthhood. Then, though he spake to the dead, great Hector answered him, saying: — “ Wherefore, Patroklos, foretellest thou me my death is impending? Who can know but Achilles, the son of lovely-haired Thetis, Under my spear may fall, that foredoomed is his death, not my death.” Book XVI HOMER’S ILIAD 313 Thus he said, as the spear he withdrew from the corse of Patroklos, Setting his foot on the body, and then for Autome- don started Hoping to slay him; but off and away sped the squire of Achilles, Borne by the horses immortal, the god-given horses of Peleus. c 1 ' V BOOK XVII Not unmarked by Atreides, the mighty in fight, Menelaus, Fell Patroklos in battle; he straight in glittering armor Strode to the front, and the corse bestrode, as calf by a heifer Lowing over her first-born and new to the cares of a mother. So, in his auburn hair, Menelaus stood over Pa¬ troklos : 'q Spear in hand he stood, and his shield held over the body, Ready to slay on the spot whosoever should sally against it. Equally keen was the son of the veteran Panthoos; seeing Gallant Patroklos down, he was there in a moment and, halting, Said in a threatening tone: — “Thou king, Mene¬ laus Atreides, Off! let this body alone! Begone from the spoils of the dead man! Book XVII HOMER'S ILIAD 315 First was I of the Trojans and all the allies in his slaying; Therefore, to lose not the glory I earned in the eyes of the Trojans, Go, that I smite thee not, and of honey-sweet life dispossess thee." Bursting with rage outspake Menelaus, and answered him, saying: “All-father Zeus, but this is unseemly, this insolent bluster! Panthers are not so audacious, nor lions; no boar of the wild-wood, Stalking about in malevolent might when his heart is the highest, Matcheth these arrogant children of Panthoos; one, notwithstanding, Got no good from his youth, Hyperenor, tamer of horses, When with revilings he faced me, and said that of Danaan warriors I was the weakest; not on his own feet, I ween, went the braggart Home to gladden the wife of his youth and the par¬ ents who bred him. So, too, be sure will I wither thy might, if thou darest to face me. 316 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XVII Off then! I bid thee avaunt, and into the multitude vanish, Else thou wilt get into trouble. The fool knoweth after he's done for." Thus he spake, but persuaded him not, and prompt was his answer: — “Now, without fail, Menelaus Atreides, a stern retribution Suffer thou shalt for the brother thou slewest, his bride in her chamber Widowed, and broughtest our parents unspeakable sorrow and mourning. Unto that sorrowing pair I should be true stay of their weeping, Granting I carry and toss in their hands thy head and thine armor. Win or lose, the feat shall be neither untried nor un¬ fought for." Thus having spoken, he threw, and his spear hit the shield of Atreides, Yet it brake not the bronze, but was bent in the ponderous buckler. Then Menelaus, in his turn, with prayer to Zeus, the All-father, Just as the other drew back from his stroke, by dex¬ terous spear-cast Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 317 Pierced his throat at the base, and, adding the weight of his body, Followed the cast with a thrust through the tender neck; and Euphorbos Fell to the earth with a crash, and his armor rattled about him. Drenched with blood was his hair, which was bright as the hair of the Graces, Even their glorious braids with gold and silver to bind them. Like as a thrifty young olive, a sapling by husband¬ men nurtured, Grown in a spot where water aboundeth and open to sunshine, Waxeth in beauty and strength; and the quickening breezes of heaven Breathe on and toss it, till, lo, it is white with its glory of blossoms; Then, of a sudden, the merciless blast of a mighty tornado, Twisteth it out from its place, and layeth it low on the greensward; So, in piteous fairness, the youth Euphorbos was lying, Slain by the king, Menelaus Atreides, and stripped of his armor. Like as a lion that lairs in the mountains and, haughty of spirit, 318 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Seizeth a cow from a herd as it feeds, and always the best one, Breaketh her neck in his powerful jaws, and drinketh her life-blood Greedily, while in confusion are dogs about him and herdsmen Yelling and barking, but keeping their distance, and none of the party Dareth approach the intruder, and pale are their faces with terror; So no man of the Trojans had nerve to face Menelaus. Easily, then, had Atreides made spoil of the arms of Euphorbos Save that Apollo begrudged him the glory, and roused to oppose him Hector, the mighty in battle; for, taking the form of a mortal, Even of Mentes, who led the Kikonians, Phoibos Apollo Fired him with winged words, and spake to him warningly, saying: — teg “Lo, now, thou art pursuing things quite unattain¬ able, Hector, Seeking to capture the horses of headstrong Achilles; for mortals Hard are those horses to master or drive, at least to another Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 319 Saying Achilles himself, who was born of a mother immortal. Stout Menelaus the while is defending Patroklos, and further Slain the best of the Trojans, Euphorbos, and ended his prowess.” Thus spake the god, and vanished again in the con¬ flict of heroes. Keen were the pangs that thronged the darkening spirit of Hector, And, as he peered down the ranks, Menelaus he saw in a moment Stripping the glorious arms from the fallen, the other one lying Dead on the field; and blood from the wound that slew him was running. Straight to the front of the fray sped Hector in glittering armor, Shouting, and sharp was his terrible cry, as towards him he fiercely Rushed like the quenchless flame of Hephaistos; Prince Menelaus Heard, and he said in his heart which was throbbing with bitter emotion: — “ Shame is to me if I leave in this strait this glorious armor, 320 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Also Patroklos abandon, a man who perished for my sake — Shame in the eyes of the Danaan host, whoever shall see it. Yet, if from shame I remain and fight with the Tro¬ jans and Hector, One it will be against many, for Hector is leading his army. .Why thus debateth my soul? Who fighteth a man heaven-honored Fighteth with heaven, and straightway his day of calamity cometh. No man, then, of the Danaan host will blame me, whoever Seeth me shrinking from Hector’s assault, for gods are behind him. Would I could somewhere see Aias, or hear his in¬ spiriting war-cry, Then, we both would return to the fight though the gods were against us, Hoping to rescue the body, the best thing now to be tried for.” While he was musing the Trojans came on, and Hec¬ tor was leading. Step by step Menelaus gave ground, and abandoned the body, Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 321 Ofttimes turning and looking behind, as a strong- bearded lion Looketh when dogs and men with spears and threat¬ ening outcries Drive him away from a sheep-fold, the mighty heart in his bosom Maddened to think of retreat, and he goeth slow and reluctant; So, in his auburn hair, Menelaus abandoned Pa- troklos. When he had come to the Danaan lines he halted and, turning, Scanned the field to descry Telamonian Aias, and quickly Saw him, off on the left of the fray, exhorting his soldiers, Seeing Apollo upon them had cast indescribable panic. Thither for Aias he went on the run, and called to him, saying: — “ Aias, my friend, come hither with me, and for fallen Patroklos Let us make desperate fight, and the body restore to Achilles, Naked, ’t is true, for the armor is lost and the booty of Hector.” VOL. II — 21 322 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Thus he spake; andAias’s heart was fired to attempt it, And, with stout Menelaus, went up where the fore¬ most were fighting. Now when Hector had stripped from Patroklos his glorious armor, Halting apart from the dolorous fight he decided to wear it, Giving his own to retainers to carry apace to the city. So the armor immortal he donned, god-given toPeleus. This, when Peleus was old, he gave to his son, to Achilles — Never, alas, himself to grow old in the arms of his father! When from afar great Zeus who darkeneth heaven beheld him Donning this armor, he nodded his head porten¬ tously, saying: — “Ah, unhappy! in no wise is death in thy thought, but’t is coming, Oh, how nigh! and thou wearest the god-given arms of a hero Strongest of human kind, and all men tremble before him. Yea, his comrade trusty and stout thou slewest, nor meetly Seized on his arms; but to-day I will grant thee glory exceeding, Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 323 So to requite thee who never again shalt return from the battle, Nay, nor place in Andromache’s hands this glorious armor.” Thus, in his heart, spake Zeus Kronlon, as darkly he nodded, Made the armor to fit, and Ares, the terrible war-god, Entered the body of Hector, and filled him with vigor and courage. Forth he stepped to the stedfast allies and, shouting exultant, Very Ares 1 he seemed, all aflame in the arms of Achilles. Then, he, in winged words, called out and exhorted them, saying: — “ Hearken, ye myriad tribes, allies, and neighboring peoples, Not mere numbers I sought when I gathered ye in from your cities, 1 Some understand this passage to mean that he looked like Achilles when clad in his armor, others that he showed himself in the arms of Achilles — both admittedly weak interpretations, and explained on the ground that the wearing of Achilles’ armor by Patroklos and all that follows incident thereto was an addition to the poem by an unknown hand. Even so it was the hand of a master; and tills passage should be given the best interpretation permitted by the text. My rendering, that Hector looked like Ares, seems to me not unwarranted; and it certainly gives these lines significance. 324 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Nay, but zealous defenders to fight for our wives and our children. Just to that end, for your pay and your food I bur¬ den my people, So that ye all may have heart in the work and your spirit be greater. Now, then, turn ye with front to the foe, to survive or to perish; That is the love-making warfare exacts; and who¬ ever among you DraggethPatroklosdead inside the lines of the Trojans, Forcing Aias to yield him, his honor and mine shall be equal — He having half of the dead man’s spoils, I keeping the other.” Ceasing, they lifted their spears, and heavily charged on the Argives, Hoping to capture the body from great Telamonian Aias, Fools! for over that body he spilled the life-blood of many. Then, for the moment disheartened, he said to Prince Menelaus: — “0 Menelaus, O comrade, our chance of returning from battle, Even ourselves not to speak of the body, I hope for no longer. Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 325 Less I fear for Patroklos, for dogs and kites will devour him, Less than I fear for my own dear head, and thine, Menelaus, Seeing that Hector, that storm-cloud of battle, en- velopeth all things. Sheer death looketh us straight in the face. Rouse up, Menelaus; Call to our aid the Danaan chieftains, whoever may hear thee.” Thus he said, and at once Menelaus, good at the war-cry, Shouted at top of his voice in appeal to the Danaans, saying: — “Leaders and princes of Argos, and all who obey the Atreidai — King Agamemnon and me, Menelaus — ye chiefs of the army Holding your honors from Zeus, and who drink at expense of the public — I cannot see in this dire conflagration of battle to name ye — Come one and all, wait not to be asked, in hot in¬ dignation Thinking that haply Patroklos might feed the dogs of the Trojans.” 326 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII First to hear and respond was Aias, son of Oileus: Next Idomeneus came, and, mighty as Ares the war- god, Also Meriones with him, his comrade-in-arms; and then others, All too many for mortal to name, rushed up to the rescue. Massed for the onset the Trojans came on, and Hec¬ tor was leading; Then like the roar and the dash at the mouth of a heaven-fallen river, There where its boisterous current meets waves dashing in from the ocean, Wild seas seething without, and the tall shores bel¬ low its thunder — Deafening thus was the shock as Danaans grappled with Trojans. First the Trojans prevailed, and drave the dark-eyed Achaians, Beating them off from the body. They fled, but only a moment, Seeing that Aias kept turning them back, magnificent Aias, Goodliest man of the Danaans all in fight and ap¬ pearance, All save matchless Achilles; he, now, to the front of the fighting Book XVII HOMER'S ILIAD 327 Backward would turn like a boar of the wood which, attacked in the mountains, Wheeleth on hunters and hounds, and they scatter apace to the dingles; So Telamonian Aias turned swiftly and scattered the Trojans Hovering over Patroklos, albeit they fondly ex¬ pected Both to prevail in the end, and hale the corse to the city. Fiercely the combatants all day long fought desper¬ ate battle; Drenched were their limbs and blinded their eyes with the sweat of the conflict Over the mighty dead, and their strong frames spent with its labor. Even as when a bull's-hide tough a chief of the people Giveth retainers to stretch, first smeared with fat for the purpose, Standing apart in a circle they take it and stretch it, and straightway Out flows the juice, the fat strikes in, and the stretch¬ ing is thorough; So the combatants both, packed close, strained hard on the body, Dragging it this way and that; and both parties equally hopeful, 328 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Trojans to hale it to Troy, to the hollow ships the Achaians. Wild was the tumult; had Ares himself and Pallas Athena Both been watching, their partisan 1 souls aflame for the contest, Neither had found any fault, so bitter and close was the struggle Zeus, that terrible day, outspread for men and for horses Over Patroklos. Achilles the while knew nought that had happened, Seeing the conflict was far from the camp by the wall of the Trojans, Never once dreamed that Patroklos would capture the city without him, No, nor with him; for many a time his mother in secret Told him what Zeus had determined; but this, the woe that had happened, This she withheld, and told not his dearest com¬ panion had fallen. Over the body, their spears in their hands, the com¬ batants madly Lunged at each other and slew; and Achaian said to Achaian: — 1 Athena favored the Achaians and Ares the Trojans. Book XVII HOMER'S ILIAD 329 “Friend, no glory to us to return to our barracks; nay, rather Black earth yawn for us here! ’t were better, very much better, Rather than yield to the horse-taming Trojans, de¬ feated, and let them Victory win, and in triumph this body hale to their city." Over against them the Trojan in like heart said to his neighbor: — “ Friend, though it be our fate to perish over this body, All of us, man upon man, let no soul shrink from the battle." Thus spake Trojan and Danaan both; and his com¬ rades, emboldened, Fought with a spirit according; and clang like the ringing of iron Rose to a heaven of bronze through the paths of the verdureless ether. Now, apart from the conflict, the horses immortal of Peleus Wept, and ceased not to weep when they saw their charioteer Fallen prone in the dust at the hands of man-slaying Hector. 330 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Smartly, be sure, had Automedon’s whip been wielded to start them; Afterwards coaxing he tried, and then he had sworn at them roundly, All three many times over, but not one jot nor a tittle Budged they, and neither would go to the Hellespont- shore nor to battle. Nay, as firm as a pillar set up on the tomb of a dead man, So they stood stock still, and held the chariot likewise, Crowding their heads to the ground; and hot tears flowed from their eyelids, Weeping Patroklos — their glorious manes escaped from the cushion Fallen both sides the yoke, and defiled with the dust of their mourning. 1 Sorrowing thus were the twain, and Kronion, be¬ holding with pity, Said in his heart as he nodded his head with thought¬ ful compassion: — 1 The Homeric man in token of mourning poured dust on his head. As the immortal horses could not do this they ac¬ complished the same purpose by crowding their heads into the earth. Oddly enough I find no authority for this inter¬ pretation, which is manifestly the true one. Near the end of Book XIX in a similar passage the horse Xanthos hangs his head in abasement; but the verb used here is elsewhere ap¬ plied to a spear driven into the earth with such violence that the spear-shaft quivers. Book XVII HOMER'S ILIAD 331 “ Ah! ye unhappy pair! Why, why did we give you to Peleus? Why to a mortal man, when ageless are ye and immortal? Was it that you might share in the woes of your suffering masters? Yea, for of all things that be on the earth, all that breatheth and creepeth, Naught is more wretched than man; but you and the beautiful chariot, High-plumed Hector shall drive not nor ride, — I will never permit it. Is't not enough how he vaunteth himself in the god-given armor? Yea, now, their wonted strength I restore to your knees and your spirit, So ye may bear from the battle Automedon safe to the shipping, Seeing I still, till the sun goeth down, and darkness is on us, Grant the Trojans to slay, even back to the Danaan galleys." Thus he spake; and the horses, inspired with a new resolution, Shook the dust from their manes, and briskly sped to the battle. 332 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Over Patroklos, again, had stretched the furious conflict, Hard-fought, terrible, roused by Athena descended from heaven. Like to the amethyst bow Zeus stretcheth to mortals from heaven, Either an omen of war or of wintry storm which compelleth Man to cease from his labors, and beasts of the field it distresseth: So, enwrapped in an amethyst-cloud, she plunged in the contest. First Menelaus she heartened, for nigh him she haply alighted, Taking the shape and unwearying voice of the vet¬ eran, Phoinix: — ^. “ Thine, Menelaus, will be the reproach and the shame if Patroklos, Faithful squire of Achilles, be torn by the dogs of the Trojans. Up, then! Mightily set on the foe, and inspirit thy comrades!” Then, for answer, responds Menelaus good at the war-cry: — “Phoinix, time-honored sire of the past, I would that Athena Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 333 Masterly might would vouchsafe, and fend me from missiles; in that case Glad would I be to stand by and protect him; the death of Patroklos Deeply toucheth my heart; but Hector like ravening fire Never ceaseth'to slay, for Zeus maketh glory attend him.” Thus he spake, and glad was the goddess, bright¬ eyed Athena, Seeing he named her first of the gods, and his knees and his shoulders Strengthened, and put in his heart a fly’s invincible daring, Which, though driven again and again from the flesh of its victim, Still returneth and biteth, and blood of man is its dainty: Instinct with daring like that Menelaus, bestriding Patroklos, Cast his spear with a will. Now, a man there was of the Trojans, Podes, Eetion’s son, both rich and headmost in fight¬ ing, Honored by Hector as comrade-in-arms and as table companion; 334 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Him, as he started to flee, Menelaus hit in the girdle, Driving the spear clean through. He fell with a crash; and his slayer Dragged the dead man 1 away from under the eyes of the Trojans. Taking the guise of a guest-friend of Hector who dwelt in Abydos, Phainops, Asios’ son, Apollo admonished him, saying: — “ Hector, what other Achaian will shrink from thee longer who shunnest Such as is this Menelaus, no great as a warrior afore¬ time, 1 Yet hath he now all alone, right under the nose of the Trojans, Taken the dead man and gone, and hath slain thy trusty companion, Podes, Eetion’s son, a fighter who fought with the foremost.” -o 1 The original has the same ambiguity as the translation as to which dead man is meant; but it must have been Patroklos, whose body up to this time certainly was not in the possession of the Achaians, but was so during the remainder of the book. This interpretation also gives some significance to the coming of Athena. Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 335 Thus said Apollo; and Hector, o’erswept with a tem¬ pest of sorrow, Sped to the front of the fight enveloped in glittering armor; Right then Kronides Zeus laid hold of his many- fringed aegis Shining, and Ida enveloped in clouds, and hurling his lightning Mightily thundered, the broad earth shook, and in haughty dominion Victory gave to the Trojans, and smote the Achaians with panic. First Peneleos started the flight, a Boeotian chief¬ tain, Hit by a spear in the shoulder while fronting the foe, and the spear-point Grazed the bone—by Poly dramas cast who had come close beside him. Lei'tos, next, the son of Alek'tryon, Hector dis¬ abled, Piercing his hand by the wrist, so the spear he longer could wield not; Then Idomeneus, aiming at Hector at Leitos dart¬ ing, Smote his breastplate of bronze, but the spear-head brake at its socket. 336 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Loudly shouted the Trojans; and then Idomeneus straightway Hastened to mount on Meriones’ car, for the former to battle Started on foot; and Hector let drive at him whilst he was mounting. Him he narrowly missed — great triumph to Troy had he slain him, Ancient Deukalion’s son, — but Koranos, chariot¬ eer, Hit in the jaw, and the teeth and the tongue he clave with the spear-point. Thus he Idomeneus saved, but his own life lost in the saving. Down from the car he dropped, and the reins flew wide, but his master, Even Meriones, gathered them up and Idomeneus ordered: — “Lay on briskly, nor cease till we come to our ships and encampment! Even thyself canst see that success hath deserted the Argives.” Thus he said; and the heavy-maned steeds Idom- meneus wildly Lashed to the hollow ships, for his soul was shaken with terror. Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 337 Now, that the tide of the battle had turned, and victory shifted, Scaped not the war-trained eyes of Aias and stout Menelaus. First of the twain to speak was great Telamonian Aias: — “ Surely, the veriest fool would know Zeus aideth the Trojans, Seeing their shafts all hit, whether brave men cast them or cowards; Zeus directeth all theirs, — all ours strike earth, ineffective. Come, let us frame some plan by ourselves for re¬ turning this body, Aye, and returning ourselves, to the joy of our anx¬ ious companions Now looking hither with dread, nor expecting that man-slaying Hector’s Might and invincible hands can long be kept from the shipping. Would some comrade were here to carry the news to Achilles, Seeing he wist not, I ween, that his loved Patroklos hath perished. Scan the battlefield, King Menelaus, haply to find there, vol. ii—22 338 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Young Antilochos living, the son of illustrious Nestor. Send him with speed to say to Achilles his comrade is fallen.” Suiting action to word, away went blond Menelaus, Peering in every direction as peereth an eagle, reputed Keenest sighted of birds, which, sailing aloft in the heavens, Still never faileth to see the fleet-footed hare as he croucheth Deep in the leaves of a thicket he seeketh for shelter, but on him Pounceth, and taketh his life; such then wert thou, Menelaus, Such was the gleam of thine eyes as they roved through the host of thy comrades, Searching if thou mightest find there the son of Nestor still living. Him he quickly descried far off on the left of the battle, Urging his men to fight, and promptly spake to him, saying: — “ Prince Antilochos, hither a moment, and terrible tidings Hear, and would it had never befallen! Thou seest that heaven, Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 339 Even thyself I ween, on the Danaans rolleth dis¬ aster, Victory giving to Troy; but the chief of Achaians is fallen, Even Patroklos, and great is the grief it hath wrought in the armv. « Haste thee, and go on the run to the Danaan ships with the tidings, Hoping Achilles will speedily aid us to rescue the body Reft of the arms, which crest-waving Hector now weareth in triumph.” Thus he said; and, hearing his word, Antilochos longtime Stood there, eyes full of tears, and speechless with grief and with horror. Still, even thus, he failed not to heed Menelaus’s bidding, Handed his arms to a comrade, and started apace on his errand. Back to the Aiases twain Menelaus returned, and reported: — “ Yonder youth have I sent to the ships with word to Achilles, Yet no aid will he give us, I ween, though bitterly angered, 340 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Seeing he cannot, unarmed, come forth to war with the Trojans. We, as we can, must devise by ourselves to rescue the body, Aye, and our own lives save from the deadly assaults of the Trojans.” Then for rejoinder responded the chief, Telamonian Aias:— “ Right thou art, Menelaus; do thou and Meriones straightway Lift to your shoulders the body, and haste with it out of the turmoil. We, two, Aias O'ileus and I, from behind will defend you, We who are brothers in spirit and name, and oft have aforetime Stood up shoulder to shoulder repelling the onsets of Ares.” Suiting action to word they, twining their arms round the body, Raised it aloft; and, seeing the deed, the Trojans behind them Shouted amain and the bearers pursued. As the hounds of a hunter Dash on a boar that is wounded, determined to tear him in pieces, Book XVII HOMER’S ILIAD 341 But, when he feeleth his strength and whirleth against them, they scatter: So, for a time, all Troy in a pack was running about them, Smiting with swords and with spears; but the Aiases, suddenly wheeling, Always brought them to halt, and pale grew their faces, and no man Ventured to forge by them to the front, and fight for the body. While thus struggled the twain to carry the dead from the battle, Wild raved the conflict about them, as fire leaping down on a city, Suddenly started, which flameth apace, and madly it roareth Under the power of the wind; and, mightily glaring and swooping, Houses crumble and vanish before it in dire con¬ flagration; Such was the tumult and din of horses and men round the bearers. They, like mules straining all their strength as they drag from a mountain Over a difficult spot ship-timber or beam, and their spirit 342 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVII Flags with the toil, and sweat poureth down as they press through the thickets, So they labored to carry the body. Behind them a bulwark Strong were the Aiases twain; and as wooded ridge in a valley Foileth the onset of turbulent rivers, which, all unavailing, Strive to rend it in sunder and, baffled, otherwhere wander, So the Aiases ever forced back the assaults of the Trojans. Yet they followed them close, and two were specially active, Even Aineias, son of Anchises, and glorious Hector. Even as clouds of starlings and daws, confusedly screaming, Flee when a hawk draweth nigh, — that bearer of death to the puny — So the Danaan youth, when Hector came nigh and Aineias, Shrieked with dismay, their courage forgat, and fled in a panic. Many the glorious arms along by the ditch that were scattered, Thrown away in their flight, and the war knew naught of cessation. BOOK XVIII Thus were they fighting like ravening fire, as Antil- ochos duly Came with hurrying feet his tidings to bear to Achilles; Stationed in front of his straight-horned ships Antil- ochos found him Filled with anxious forebodings of all that in truth had befallen. Greatly perturbed, to his tempest-tossed soul he inwardly muttered: — “Woe, ah, woe is to me! why again are the long¬ haired Achaians Leaving the field in disorderly rout, and running for shelter? Fallen, too surely is fallen, the mighty son of Men- oitios, Headstrong! yet straitly I bade him, when saved from fire was the shipping, March straight back into camp, not hazard a combat with Hector.” 344 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII While in his heart and soul were tossed these bodings of mischief, Up came running before him the son of illustrious Nestor, Hot tears streaming adown, and told his message of sorrow: — “ Woe is to me, son of Peleus, that I am the bearer of tidings Bitter for thee to hear, — and would it had never befallen! Dead on the field is Patroklos, the fighting is now for the body, Stripped of the arms, which crest-waving Hector now weareth in triumph.” 1 ' Thus he spake, and a storm-cloud of anguish en¬ shrouded Achilles. Wildly in both of his hands he, clutching the soot from the embers, Poured it adown his head, and his comely face was disfigured, While, on his perfumed doublet, fell thick the grime of the ashes. Stretched in the dust was his princely form and, great in his greatness, Lay he and tore his hair, his own hands marring its beauty. Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 345 Then the women Patroklos and he had taken as captives Frantic, with piercing shrieks came running out from their quarters, Flocked round mighty Achilles, and all in a blaze of excitement Beat their breasts with their hands, and the limbs grew faint underneath them. Wailing, before him Antilochos stood, and with tears fast falling, Held the hands of Achilles, whose whole frame writhed in his anguish, Seeing he feared that Achilles might cleave his neck with the iron . 1 Dreadful to hear were his groans; and the queenly goddess, his mother, Heard in the depths of the sea where she sat by her father, the Ancient. Loudly she wailed in return; and the sea-nymphs gathered about her, All, as many as dwell in the deeps, fair daughters of Nereus — All, till the silver cavern was full; and the throng all together Beat their breasts, while Thetis led off in her story of sorrow: — 1 The only suggestion of suicide in the Iliad. 346 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII “Hearken, Nereid sisters, and know my woes in their fullness. Woe is me, unhappy! a blest but unfortunate mother! Blest, abundantly blest, in a son that is matchless and mighty, Chivalry’s very flower! The boy ran up like a sap- ling, And, when grown, like a sturdy stalk on the slope of a vineyard, Hither I sent him to Troy to war with the Trojans, and never, Never shall welcome him back to his childhood-home ' a survivor. That is not all: even now while he liveth and seeth the sunlight Woes keep coming, and go as I may I am powerless to help him. Going I am, notwithstanding, to look at my boy, and discover What new sorrow betideth him now, though keeping from battle.” Suiting action to word she left the cavern, and with her Went her companions in tears with the sea-waves breaking about them. Up on the Trojan beach they trooped, where the Myrmidon galleys Book XVIII HOMER'S ILIAD 347 Lay close together, drawn up on the shore, and en¬ circled Achilles. Heavily groaning he lay, and anigh him the goddess, his mother, Drew with a piercing cry, and her son's head clasped to her bosom, And, with a mother’s yearning, spake winged words to him, saying: — “Why, my child, art thou weeping? what sorrow thy heart hath invaded? Tell it, and nothing conceal; the word of Zeus is accomplished Surely, — all that thou prayed for aforetime, that, hemmed in their shipping Needing thine aid, the Achaians might suffer dis¬ grace and disaster." Then, and he heavily groaned, Achilles answered her, saying: — “Yea, all that the Olympian lord hath done as I prayed him, Yet, what sweetness to me, now my trusty comrade hath perished, Even Patroklos, the one that I loved more than all his companions, Even as mine own life! he is fallen, and Hector that slew him 348 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Rent from the dead the redoubtable armor, won¬ drous to gaze on, Gift of the gods to Peleus the day thou wast wed to a mortal. Would thou hadst kept to thy place, with deathless sea-nymphs abiding, Aye, and Peleus kept his, and mortal woman had wedded! Now, to add to the measureless woes of this ill- sorted marriage, Never again will return to his home the son that is lost thee, Seeing my heart prompteth not that I live and abide with my fellows Save for the slaying of Hector in vengeance for fallen Patroklos.” Then spake Thetis again, and her tears fell fast as she answered: — “What thou art talking, my son, meaneth death, and short will thy shrift be! After the slaying of Hector thine own death followeth straightway.” “Straightway, then, may I die,” Achilles bitterly answered, “Seeing I had not the grace to defend my friend at his slaying: Book XVIII HOMER'S ILIAD 349 Far from his native land he died, and defender he had not. Now, since I never return to mine own dear home, and in nowise Either a light to Patroklos have been, nor the rest of my comrades Strewn all over the field at the hands of sinewy Hector, Nay, but here at the ships, to earth a profitless burden, Sulked, albeit the greatest in fight of the mail-clad Achaians, Oh that strife from earth and from heaven might ut¬ terly perish! Aye, and hate, which proddeth to quarrel even the wise man — Hate, which at first though sweeter by far than trickling honey, Waxeth big till it rankles like smoke in the bosom of mortals — Like to the hate which fired me of late against Agamemnon. So, let by-gones be by-gones in spite of my just pro¬ vocation, Curbing our passionate stirrings of heart from bitter compulsion. Straight am I going to fall on the man who slew my beloved one, 350 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Hector, and then meet death when Zeus and the gods shall decree it. Even, yea, even great Herakles’ might from death- doom escaped not, Albeit dearest of mortals was he to almighty Kro- nion, Nay, him fate overcame, and the merciless ven¬ geance of Hera. So, too, will I, if in sooth a like fate for me is pre¬ paring, Lie still when I am dead, but struggle for glory while living; Let not thy fondness restrain me from war; thou wilt not persuade me.” T Then spake Thetis, the silver-shod nymph, and an¬ swered him, saying: — “ Verily, child, this purpose of thine is good, and not evil, Even thine hard-pressed comrades to save from utter destruction; Still, thy bronze-gleaming armor is held by the Tro¬ jans, remember, Worn as his own by crest-waving Hector. Nowise, I tell thee, Nowise for long will he glory therein, for death is anigh him. Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 351 Therefore I bid thee in no wise to enter the tumults of Ares, Not till thou seest me hither returned: I will come with the sunrise, Bringing magnificent arms from the king of crafts¬ men, Hephaistos.” Speaking she turned from her son, and said to her sisters, the sea-nymphs: — “Down once again, my sisters, plunge down in the sea’s broad bosom, Go to the halls of our father, the Ancient, and tell what betideth; I to lofty Olympos am going in hope that Hephaistos, Far-famed artist, will forge for my son magnificent armor.” Thus she spake, and the sea-nymphs turned and plunged in the billows. Thetis went on to Olympos, and, as she departed, i the Argives Came with cries of dismay to their ships where the Hellespont dasheth. Chance there seemed to be none to rescue the corse of Patroklos, Seeing again with horses and men came furious onset 352 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XVIII Led by Priamides Hector, — a flame of fire in his valor. Thrice from behind by the foot it was seized by glo¬ rious Hector, Eager to drag it away, and sharply he called to the Trojans; Thrice the Aiases twain, y-clad in impetuous valor, Beat him off from the corse; but he, with self-confi¬ dent spirit Ceased not assault, but sometimes he charged on the Danaans, sometimes Halted with mighty yell, and gave not a moment of respite. Drag him away he would, and have won unspeak¬ able triumph, Saving that, down from Olympos, betimes came wind-footed Iris Bringing word to Achilles to gird himself for the conflict. Halting anigh, in winged words she spake to him, saying: — “Rouse thyself, son of Peleus, of all mankind most undaunted! Rise for Patroklos, for over him, now, is this terrible war-din Rising in front of the ships; on both sides many are falling —- Book XVTH HOMER’S ILIAD 353 Danaans valiantly fighting to save the corse of the dead man, Trojans and Hector to drag him away to Ilios wind¬ swept : Up, then! Lie here no longer! Let shame sink deep in thy bosom! Think of Patroklos becoming the prey to the dogs of the Trojans! Thine will be the reproach if the body shall come to dishonor!” Straightway, then, in reply, outspake swift-footed Achilles: — “How can I join in the fray when foemen have cap¬ tured my armor? Other man’s arms I could even put on I know not of any, Saving, perchance, the shield of great Telamonian Aias. Aias himself, I trust, is making a stand with the fore¬ most, Dealing death with the spear for the body of fallen Patroklos.” Wind-footed Iris replied: — “We know that thine armor is taken; On to the trench notwithstanding, and show thyself to the Trojans, vol. ii. — 23 354 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Taking the chance that in terror of thee they will pause from the onset, Thus to secure to the Danaans bold a respite to breath in.” Now, when her message was told, and gone was swift-footed Iris, Up rose Achilles, the gifted of Zeus; and Pallas Athena Over his shoulders broad disposed a many-fringed aegis, Also encircled his head with a golden cloud, and above it Gleamed a flame which the goddess divine set bale- fully blazing. Even as when from a city a smoke ascendeth to heaven Far away on an island which hostile forces beleaguer, After they, all day long, have a losing fight from the city Waged, and at set of sun their beacon-lights thickly are blazing, Lighting the skies with their signal for aid from the neighboring islands: So from the head of Achilles the glare ascended to heaven. Heeding his mother’s injunction the fighting Acha- ians he joined not, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 355 But, going forth to the moat, he stood and shouted, and Pallas Lifted beside him her terrible voice, and unspeakable uproar Rose in the Trojan ranks; for dire as the voice of a trumpet Blown by its deadliest foes to summon a city’s sur¬ render, So, then, high o’er the tempest of war, blared the voice of Achilles. Straightway the Trojans heard the bronzen voice of Achilles, Thrilled and shaken of soul their high hearts quaked; and the horses, Manes and tails all a-flying, and stricken with bodings of evil, Headstrong, their chariots turned; and aghast were the charioteers, Seeing the fire unwearied stream up from the head of Achilles, Flaming its terrors, — the fire which keen-eyed Pallas had kindled. Thrice from over the trench rang the mighty voice of Achilles, Thrice on Trojan and valiant ally fell palsying panic. Such was the dire consternation that twelve of their best and their bravest 356 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Fell by their own spears slain or their chariot wheels; and the Argives Gladly, amid the confusion, the body of fallen Patroklos Brought in, placed on a litter, and walked beside him lamenting. In behind the procession Achilles fell, and amid them Wept hot tears unavailing; for, lo, his trusty com¬ panion Stretched on the bier of death lay slain by pitiless spear-stroke — Friend in the pomp of horses and chariots sent to the battle, Hopefully sent, but, alas, to living welcome returned not. Now the unwearying sun by ox-eyed imperial Hera Downward to eddying Ocean was sent, and loth he departed. So, then, the sun went down, and gladly the warlike Achaians Ceased from the perilous fight, — the tug and travail of battle. Also, from further assault, the Trojans ceasing at sunset, Loosed their steeds from the yoke and, before they bethought them of supper, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 357 Met in assembly, but dared not to sit; and quaking they stood there, Seeing Achilles had come once again, who long had been absent. First amid them to speak was Polydamas, prudent in counsel, Wise beyond others in seeing the past and foreseeing the future. Comrade of Hector was he — ’t was the self-same night they were born in — Yet was he greater in words, but Hector far greater in action. He, in concern for his people, forewarned and cau¬ tioned them, saying: — “Weigh both sides of the question, my friends; I advocate strongly Instant retreat to the city, not wait for the dawn of the morning Here on the plain by the ships; and far, far away are our ramparts. Whilst our arch-enemy kept from the fray from hate of Atreides, Easier far were the Argives to face, and I by their shipping Bivouacked, hoping to take it by storm, and gloried as you did. 358 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XYIII Now, as things are, I am sorely in dread of un¬ flinching Achilles. Such is the pride of his venturesome heart he will brook not to linger Back in the plain, where the rest of us fight, we Trojans and Argives, Sharing between us, as spoil, naught else than the fury of Ares, — Nay, our city and wives, no less, is the prize he will fight for. Up, then! back to the city! Oh, heed me! ’Twill be as I tell you. Now, ambrosial night restraineth his rage, but to¬ morrow Granting he catcheth us loitering here in his armor of battle, Some there be that will know him; and glad to win to the city Whoso escapeth, and many be food for dogs and for vultures. If, however, my word we shall heed, however re¬ luctant, * Morning will find us in battle array with towers to defend us; Worse for him will he find it to come from his ship¬ ping to fight us: Back once more to his camp will he go with his high¬ headed horses Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 359 Blown by meanderings under our walls in his profit¬ less efforts. Into our city he never will break, he dare not attempt it, No, and he never will take it, — before that dogs shall devour him.” Then, with an angry look, spake crest-waving Hector for answer: — “ Nowise welcome to me, Polydamas, runneth thy counsel, Bidding us beat a retreat, and herd once more in the city. Have we not had enough of being cooped in our fastness? Once this city of Priam among all civilized peoples Used to be common talk for the bronze and gold that were in it, — Now all utterly lost, and our homes despoiled of their treasures, Many possessions to Phrygia gone and Maionia lovely, Scattered and sold, since the hatred of Zeus hath been heavy upon us. Now, when the son of mysterious Kronos the first time hath given us Glory to win on the field, and in their camp herd the Achaians, 360 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII This is no time, thou fool, to vent such half-hearted counsels, — Never a man of the Trojans will heed thee, — permit them I will not. Come, now, the counsel that I give let every man of us follow: First take supper all over the host, but take it in relays, Keep strict watch, be alert, and to-morrow, keen for the onset, Morning will find us in battle array by the enemies’ shipping. If, in truth, by the ships Achilles hath risen for action, Worse for him will he find it if risen to stay; I shall never Shrink from the roar of battle, but face to face will I meet him, Whether he winneth a victory proud or I be the winner. Fair-play giveth the war-god, and ofttimes slayeth the slayer.” Thus did Hector harangue, and the Trojans roared their approval — Fools, bereft of their natural sense by Pallas Athena, Seeing their praise was for Hector albeit his counsel was evil, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 361 Yet not a word of Polydamas heard, whose counsel had saved them. So their supper they took the army throughout; but the Argives Wailed for Patroklos the whole night long, and Achilles amid them Led in the wail, with his man-slaying hands on the breast of his comrade, Groaning grimly and fast, as bearded lioness growleth, One whose whelps hath a stag-hunter stolen and borne from the forest: Later returning she mourneth, and scenting the tracks of the huntsman Teareth through many a glen, sore wroth, and pant¬ ing to catch him: So, with Lion-like moanings, he spake to the Myrmi¬ dons, saying: — “ Empty, empty, alas, were my words so hopefully spoken, Meant to hearten the hero Menoitios when we departed, Promising I would return him his son in glory to Opus, Proud of the capture of Troy, and rich in his share of the booty. But, of the thoughts of men Zeus bringeth not all to fruition; 362 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Lo, we both were foredoomed to dye this soil with our life-blood, Here in Troyland, for not even me will the veteran Peleus Welcome again in his halls — this soil shall hold me beneath it. But, since, Patroklos, later than thee this earth will entomb me, Funeral honors in thy case shall wait till I bring for thy glory Head and armor of Hector, the mighty warrior that slew thee. Till then, here by the ships thou shalt lie as thou art, and about thee Deep-bosomed women of Troy and other Dardanian captives ^ Night-time and daytime shall stand and ceaselessly weep and bewail thee.” Silver-shod Thetis the while had come to the house of Hephaistos Ever-enduring and starry, conspicuous mid the immortals, Fashioned of bronze, and Hephaistos himself, the clubfoot, had made it. Him she caught all reeking with sweat, and brisk at the bellows, Hasting to finish a batch of tripods, twenty in number, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 363 Forged to stand by the wall of the well-framed hall of his palace. Wheels underneath them of gold he had set at the base of the tripods Planning that they without help the divine assembly might enter, Also return to the house without help, — a marvel to witness. Just that near to completion were they, but thus far the cunning Ears were not fastened: and these he was fitting, and cutting the rivets. While he was working at these with the subtle skill of a craftsman, Silver-shod Thetis drew nigh; and the beautiful wife of the artist, Grace, in a glittering head-band, came out of the dwelling and saw her. Taking her guest by the hand she greeted her cor¬ dially, saying: — “What is the chance, fair Thetis, that bringeth thee hither to our house, Guest ever honored and dear? Not often thy visits aforetime. Prithee come in; as hostess I fain would set guest- cheer before thee.” 364 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Thus she said, the goddess divine, and into the palace Led and seated her guest on a throne with trappings of silver, Beautiful, skilfully wrought, and below for the feet was a foot-rest; Then she went for her husband, the far-famed arti¬ san, saying: — “ Come, Hephaistos, Thetis is here, and wants you for something.” Then, for answer, the club-foot renowned with feel¬ ing responded: — “Verily, this is a guest that hath earned my homage and honor, She who saved me from direful distress when falling from heaven, y. Cast by my mother, unnatural vixen, meaning to keep me Hid from sight, being lame; and I had been dashed to destruction Saving that Thetis, Eurynome helping her, caught me in season, — That Eurynome mean I the daughter of refluent Ocean. Staying with these years nine I wrought curiosities many, Brooches, and twisted armlets, and necklaces also, and earrings, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 365 Hid in a hollow grot; and about it the currents of Ocean Ever kept foaming and dashing with wild inarticu¬ late murmur — Refuge to all unknown, alike to gods and to mortals, Save that Eurynome knew, and Thetis, the twain that had saved me. Now she to our house hath come, and mighty con¬ straint is upon me - Full life ransom to pay in requital to lovely-tressed Thetis. Prithee do thou go back and provide her a bountiful guest-cheer, Whilst I am stowing the bellows away, and all my utensils.” Speaking, he up from his anvil rose, a tottering giant, Rose with a limp, but the slender legs moved nimbly beneath him. Then, apart from the fire his bellows he laid, and together Gathered and stowed in a silver chest his working utensils; Next, from his face and hands and his shaggy breast and his brawny Neck he carefully sponged away the grime of the work-shop, Then his tunic put on, a stout staff grasped, and pro¬ ceeded 366 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XVIII Forth with a limping gait; and, supporting their lord, tripped handmaids Fashioned of gold, who yet were living maidens in semblance. Understanding of heart have they, and articulate language, Strength, moreover, and handicraft skill, the gift of immortals. These, underneath their lord, supported his steps till he hobbled On to the presence of Thetis, and sat in a glittering arm-chair, Clasped her hand in his own, and heartily welcomed her, saying: — “What is the errand, fair Thetis, that bringeth thee hither to our house, Reverenced ever and dear? Not often thy visits aforetime. Tell me the wish of thine heart; my spirit prompteth to do it, If I am able, that is, and the thing be not utterly hopeless." Fair-robed Thetis then spake, and her tears fell fast as she answered: — “Oh, Hephaistos, what goddess, of all who abide on Olympos, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 367 Beareth such sorrows as Kronides Zeus for me hath appointed? Me of the sea-nymphs all he subject made to a mortal, Peleus, Aiakos’ son, and I to his bride-bed sub¬ mitted Albeit very unwilling; now worn in his palace he lieth Stricken in years, — old sorrows from Zeus; now a new one he sendeth, Seeing a son he decreed me to bear, and rear him to manhood, Chivalry’s very flower! The boy ran up like a sapling, And, when grown like a sturdy stalk on the slope of a vineyard, On to Troyland I sent him to war with the Trojans, and never, Never shall welcome him back to his childhood’s home a survivor. Yea, and now while he liveth and seeth the sunlight he suffers Woes I am powerless to help. The girl the Achaians awarded King Agamemnon away from him took and, angered, Achilles Pining for her, withdrew from the war, and the Tro¬ jans exultant 368 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Hemmed the Achaians in camp; and now the elders of Argos Sought for his aid, and the gifts that they promised were splendid and many. As for himself he straitly refused to retrieve their disaster, But, thereafter, Patroklos he sent when the ships were in danger, Clad in his god-given armor, and many a Myrmidon with him. All day long they fought by the Skaian Gates; and the city Surely had fallen that self-same day, but Phoibos Apollo, After great havoc done by the gallant son of Menoi- tios, Slew him in front of the fray, and gave the glory to Hector. So to thy knees am I come, and this is mine errand, to beg thee Shield and helmet to give to my son so shortly to perish, Also beautiful greaves with ankle-guards suitably fitted, Likewise a corselet; the arms that were his his trusty companion Lost when he fell; and heart-broken now in the dust is he lying.’ Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 369 Then, for rejoinder, responded the far-famed artisan, saying: — “Take heart! neither be troubled of soul respecting this armor! Would that my craft were as able from death’s dread cries to protect him, Hiding him far apart when the last calamity com- eth, Surely as glorious arms shall be his, to beholders a marvel.” Thus said Hephaistos, and leaving her there, he went to his bellows. These he turned on the fire, and set them to work; and the bellows, Twenty in all, proceeded to blow on the crucibles, sending Blasts of every description as wanted, where wanted, and sometimes Fierce, when urgent the haste of the work, and other¬ wise sometimes, All as Hephaistos might wish, and the needs of the calling demanded. Bronze that wears not away, and tin, he placed on the fire, Silver, also, and gold much prized of men; and his anvil vol. ii — 24 % 370 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Huge he placed on the anvil block, and then in the one hand Seized his ponderous hammer, his tongs being held by the other. Then he made, to begin with, a shield that was mighty and massive, Cunningly fashioned throughout, and shining metal about it Cast in a triple rim, and fitted a shield-strap of silver. Five were the plates of the shield with a common centre, and on it Wrought he much curious work with the subtle skill of a craftsman. 1 On it the earth he wrought, and the sea, and on it the heavens, Also the moon at her full, and the sun that wearieth never; On it, moreover, the signs, as many as garland the heavens, Even the Pleiads, the Hyads, the mighty hunter Orion, Also the great she Bear, which men call also the Wagon, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 371 Her that turneth on high and Orion eternally watcheth, Her that alone of the signs shareth not in the baths of the ocean. On it two cities he made of foreign and civilized peoples; Things of beauty they were; in the one were wed¬ dings and feastings, Brides led forth from their chambers, and under the splendor of torches Up through the city escorted, while loud rose the song of espousal. Whirling about in the dance were youths, and in time with the dancers Flutes and viols rang high; and in front of the several houses Standing in doorways were women admiring with open-mouthed wonder. Yonder the men were met in assembly, for there had a trial 1 Started, and there two men were disputing concern¬ ing the blood-price Due for a man one had slain; he, claiming by gifts full atonement, Stating his case to the people, while gifts were refused by the other; 1 The first suggestion in literature of anything like a trial at law. 372 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII So both came to an expert determined to get a decision. Both men the people applauded, for both sides had their adherents, Keeping the heralds busy in checking the uproar; the elders Sat there on polished stones in a sacred circle, and scepters Held in their hands which in turn they received from the heavy-voiced heralds. Then to the front they strode and judgment gave in succession. Lying, as fit, in the midst was, also, of gold two talents, Meant for him of the elders who fairest seemed in his judgment. Camped by the second city were two beleaguering armies Gleaming in mail, who offered the townsfolk this ultimatum — Either the sack of the place or else an equal division ’Twixt the besiegers and them of the wealth of the beautiful city. This the townsfolk declined, and had armed them¬ selves for an ambush. Up on the wall dear wives and infant children were standing, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 373 Acting as guards, and men infirm of age were among them. Forth marched the fighting men with Ares and Pal¬ las Athena Leading, both of gold, and gold was the raiment that clad them, Both being stately and great in their mail as ever the gods are, Towering apart by themselves, for the people below them were smaller. They, when they came to a spot that was fitting to lay them in ambush — Where, in a river’s bed, was a place for watering cattle — There they stationed themselves, as planned, in bright mail accoutered. Two of their number apart lay hid, as scouts of the army, Waiting for sheep to appear and trail-footed, crum¬ pled-horned cattle. Soon the cattle appeared, and behind them followed two herdsmen Piping away on flutes, with never a thought of an ambush. Thus the others saw first, and up they ran, inter¬ cepting All the cattle and sheep, and slew the shepherds that fed them. 374 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII When the besiegers heard, as they sat by the places of parley, Outcry loud by the cattle, behind their high-stepping horses Promptly they mounted and followed, and came to the spot very quickly. Both sides stood their ground, and along by the banks of the river Fought a fight, and their bronze-shod spears drave hard at each other. Mingling among them was Strife, and Tumult, aye, Death was among them, Grasping a living man just wounded, another un¬ wounded, Also a dead man’s corse by the feet through the mel- lay was dragging, Wearing a robe on her shoulders the blood of mortals had reddened. Even like living men they were rushing together and fighting, Like them were haling away the bodies of foemen departed. On it a light-soiled field he placed, in high cultivation, Three times ploughed and wide; and many plough¬ men were in it Turning their yokes of oxen, and driving them for¬ ward and backward. Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 375 Some, as they turned about, having come to the bounds of the plough-land, There had put in their hands a goblet of wine sweet - as honey, Giv’n by a man coming up; and others kept turning the furrows, Eager to come to the goal of the loamy field in their ploughing. Black was the field in the rear, and like to plough¬ land exactly, Albeit being of gold ; and in this the work was a wonder. On it a royal demesne he set; and there were the reapers Gathering in the grain, and keen-edged sickles were handling. Some grain down to the ground in swaths was fall¬ ing together, Some the binders of sheaves with straw were tying in bundles. Sheaf-binders three stood by prepared for their work; and behind them Boys, collecting the grain and bringing it forward in armfuls, Kept the binders supplied; and the king, amid them, in silence 376 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Stood there, scepter in hand, and his heart at the swath was rejoicing. Pages apart were preparing a banquet under an oak- tree, Busied in dressing an ox, a monster, slaughtered; while women Strewed it with barley meal, their supper to give to the reapers. On it a vineyard he placed that was heavily loaded with clusters, Beautiful, fashioned of gold, and black overhead were the bunches, — Resting, moreover, throughout on props that were fashioned of silver. Circling the vineyard a ditch of cyanus ran, and about it Set he a fence of tin, and one path, only, led thither, Meant for the vintagers’ use when they gathered the fruit of the vineyard. Maidens, moreover, and youths were seen thereon making merry, Bearing in plaited baskets the fruit of the vine sweet as honey. Also, amid the throng, a boy with a clear-toned viol Charmingly played, and sweetly the song of Sum¬ mer departing Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 377 Sang with a high-pitched voice; and the rest in step altogether Followed with skipping feet in time with the song and the music. On it, moreover, a herd he embossed of high-horned cattle, Fashioned of gold and of tin; and lowing they ran from the farmyard Down to a mead by a murmuring stream where rushes were waving. Shepherds of gold to the number of four were driving the cattle, Followed by nine swift dogs; and lo, two terrible lions Seized on a bull that was leading, and dragged him bellowing loudly. Close in pursuit were the dogs and the men but, re¬ gardless, the lions, Rending the hide of the bull, were gorging them¬ selves on his entrails. Sore afraid were the shepherds, but set the dogs to attack them. % They swerved away from the lions and, prudently keeping their distance, Came up behind them and barked, but refrained altogether from biting. 378 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII On it a pasture he made, did the far-famed clubfoot, a wide one, All in a beautiful glen, and white-fleeced sheep were within it, Steadings, moreover, for shepherds, and low-roofed huts, and the sheep-folds. On it a dance he embossed, did the far-famed god, Ambidexter, Such as in Crete, in the olden time, of intricate mazes Daidalos deftly designed for its princess, fair Ariadne. There represented were youths and maidens costly of wooing, 1 Dancing, with all hands joined, each holding the wrist of his partner. Raiment of fine-spun linen the maids had on, while in tunics Neatly woven the youths were clad, dim gleaming with olive; Also beautiful garlands bedecked the maids, while the others Daggers of gold were wearing suspended from bal¬ drics of silver. Now with cadenced steps they nimbly moved in a circle, Book XVIII HOMER’S ILIAD 379 Easily very, as when, in the practiced hands of a potter, Spinneth his wheel as he sitteth to see if it runneth in order; Then, with change in the step, in lines they chased one another. Throngs of spectators stood by to gaze at the beau¬ tiful dancing, Full of delight; and amid them a god-like poet was singing, Playing the while on his harp; and down through the throng of spectators Ever in time with the music two acrobats deftly were whirling. On it, he placed moreover, the mighty power of the Ocean, Streaming about on the rim of the targe so skilfully fashioned. Now when the work was complete on the shield so mighty and massive, Forged he a corselet to match it, and brighter than fire was its glitter. Forged he also a helmet, ’twas heavy and shaped to the temples, 380 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XVIII Beautiful, cunningly made, and a crest of gold set above it: Forged he, moreover, greaves of flexible tin for the outfit. Now when the suit of armor was finished by great Ambidexter, Bringing it forward he laid it adown by the feet of the mother. Swift as the flight of the falcon she sped down snowy Olympos Bearing the glittering arms, the gift of craftsman Hephaistos. 1 BOOK XIX Dawn in her mantle of saffron arose from the streams of the Ocean, Bearing her light, betimes, to deathless gods and to mortals, When to the ships came Thetis anon with arms from Hephaistos. There her own dear son outstretched by the side of Patroklos Found she weeping aloud, and his many companions about him Joined in lament; and amid them stole close the beauteous goddess, Clasped his hands in her own, and said in tender remonstrance: — “We must submit, my child, though sad for the death of thy comrade, Seeing the gods so willed, and he fell foredoomed from the outset. Here, take these, the work of Hephaistos, magnificent armor, Such as no mortal man ever wore on his shoulders before this.” 382 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Such were the words of the goddess as down in front of Achilles Laid she the arms, which resounded in all their curi¬ ous markings. Then on the Myrmidons all fell trembling, neither did any Dare to look at it straight, and they turned to flee; but Achilles Gazed, and ever grew fierce as he gazed, and under his eyebrows Dread was the glare of his eyes which gleamed like the blaze of a fire; Yet with delight did he handle the glorious gifts notwithstanding. When he had sated his soul with beholding the curi¬ ous tracings, Straightway he turned, and in winged words thus spake to his mother: — “Mother, god-given armor is this, and such as is fitting Work of immortals should be, and mortal hand could not forge them. Now, good sooth, will I arm for the fray:” and he sped up the sea-shore, Shouting his terrible war-cry, and roused the heroic Achaians. Even those who aforetime were wont to abide by the shipping, Book XIX HOMER'S ILIAD 383 Men, for example, like helmsmen who guided the oarage for steering, Also such as were stewards and dealt out food to the soldiers, Even these men came then to assembly, seeing Achilles Now had appeared, who for long stood aloof from dolorous battle. Limping, along came two men together, servants of Ares, Even Tydeides the dauntless in fight, and godlike Odysseus, Leaning upon their spears, for still their wounds were distressing; Yet, to the front they passed, and seated themselves in assembly. Last of all to arrive was the king of men, Agamemnon, Crippled by spear-wound inflicted by Koon, son of Antenor. In trooped man after man till gathered were all the Achaians, When, amid them Achilles arose, and spake to them, saying: — “Pray, Atreides, wherein hath it turned out better for either, Either for thee or for me, that with hearts pervert we have fallen 384 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Into a quarrel heart-rending as this, and all for a woman? She, ah, would she by Artemis slain had died at the shipping, Even the self-same day that I stormed Lyrnessos and took it! Then, not so many Achaians had bitten the dust in their death-throes, Slain by the hands of our foes whilst I was sulking in anger. Profit to Hector, indeed, and the Trojans it was; but Achaians Long will remember this quarrel of ours, I ween, and with reason. Come, let the dead past bury its dead; necessity bids us q'i Curb the pride of our hearts, our stormy souls not¬ withstanding. My wrath here I renounce, and sincerely: nowise doth honor Force me to end not this quarrel forever. Up, then, and order Instant advance of the Argives to war! I fain would determine Whether the Trojans keep on camping here: but methinks that the remnant, Such as escape from my spear, will take to their heels, and be glad to.” Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 385 Thus he said, and his hearers rejoiced that the quarrel was ended. Then rose King Agamemnon and spake to the Dana- ans, saying: — “Listen, friends, ye Danaan heroes, ye servants of Ares, Give your attention, all, though my words are meant for Achilles. Many a word respecting our feud have the Danaans spoken — Every man hath denounced me; but not on me should the blame rest, Nay, it was Zeus, and Fate, the Avenger that walk- eth in darkness, They it was who put in my heart wild infatuation When, on that fatal day, I wrested his prize from Achilles. What could I do, being man, and the great gods governing all things? Eldest daughter of Zeus is Folly, who all men be- guileth, Temptress accursed! soft are her feet; rough earth she avoideth, Nay, but on heads of men she lightly presseth her footsteps, Spreading her snares of bane, and this man and that she entangleth. vol. ii — 25 386 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Why, by her once on a time was Zeus befooled, though acknowledged Greatest of gods and men; but him, notwithstanding his greatness, Hera, with feminine craft, deceived on the day when the mighty Herakles should have been born, in tower-crowned Thebes, of Alkmene. Downright boastful was he as he said amid the im¬ mortals : — “‘ Hearken to me, ye gods, and all ye goddesses hearken: This is the day Eileithya who helpeth women in childbirth Unto the light shall a man-child bring of my blood descended Who as a monarch shall reign over all the dwellers about him.’ “Then, with craft in her heart, responded imperial Hera: — ‘ Thou wilt prove a deceiver, nor bring thy word to fulfilment. Come, now, Olympian, swear me the oath that can¬ not be broken, He shall, indeed, be king over all the dwellers about him, Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 387 Whoso in birth this day shall fall ’twixt the feet of a woman, Being of human kind, and from thee directly de¬ scended.’ “Thus she spake; and Zeus, in no wise suspecting beguilement, Swore her the mighty oath, and in that was very short-sighted. Hera at once hurried off and, leaving the peak of Olympos, Came to Achaian Argos at tearing pace, where she haply Knew of the beauteous wife of Sthenelos, offspring of Perseus. She was with child of a son, with the seventh month just at beginning. Him to the light of day brought Hera, child born untimely, While, from Alkmene, she hindered the birth, re¬ straining the Midwives. Then she herself made announcement to Zeus Kron- ion in this wise: — “‘Zeus, dread lord of the lightning, a piece of news will I bring thee: Born is that man-child already to rule o’er the Ar- gives, a fine one, 388 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Even Eurystheus, Sthenelos’ son, descendant of Perseus, Thine own stock, — not unfitting to reign as king of the Argives.’ “Thus she said; and his inmost heart was smitten with anguish. Bitterly heartsore and wroth he straightway Folly, the Temptress, Seized by the hair of the head, and the oath that cannot be broken Swore, that cozening Folly should never return to Olympos. Whirling her round by the hair when the oath was spoken, he cast her Down from the starry heavens; and such was her coming to mortals; Yet did she cost Zeus many a pang, his son seeing later Bound to unseemly toil‘in his labors at hest of Eurys¬ theus. Even so I, when I saw great crest-waving Hector before me Slaying the Argives, the Temptress forgat not who first had betrayed me. But, since befooled I was, and Zeus of my reason bereft me, Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 389 Full amends am I ready to render, and penalty priceless. Up, then! on to the battle! inspirit the rest of the army. Gifts all told I am ready to give, as noble Odysseus Yesternight promised; and if thou art willing, though eager for battle, Wait, and pages shall bring thee the gifts, to prove they content thee.” Achilles is impatient of delay; but Odysseus reminds him that the army must breakfast before fighting, and that it is better that the gifts be delivered publicly and Agamemnon take the promised oath. Agamemnon assents, and commissions Odysseus to be master of cere¬ monies, and bids Talthybios provide a boar for sacrifice. Straightway, as soon as was spoken the word, the deed was accomplished. Forth from the camp of Atreides they bore seven tripods, as promised, Also horses twelve, and twenty glittering cauldrons; Forth they hurrying brought the dames in handi¬ work skilful, Seven, and fair-cheeked Briseis the eighth; and care¬ ful Odysseus Weighed ten talents of gold and, taking it, led the procession Back with the gifts to the public assembly; and, up Agamemnon 390 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Rose, and beside him Talthybios stood with voice of immortals, Holding the boar; and, drawing his sheathknife of iron, Atreides Bristles clipped from the head, and with hands up¬ lifted to heaven Prayed unto Zeus; and all the Achaians in silence about him Sat in order and listened with awe, while thus spake Atreides: — “First let Zeus be my witness, the highest and best of immortals, Aye, and the Sun, and Earth, and the stern Avengers who punish Reprobate men in the world below who swear to a falsehood, Never a hand have I laid on the girl Briseis, nay, neither Sharing her bed, and in no wise — she staid at my quarters unsullied. If, in this, I am false, may the gods grant sorrow on sorrow.” Thus he said; and lifting the knife that knoweth not pity, Cut the throat of the boar; and Talthybios whirled it, and cast it Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 391 Into the fathomless sea’s wild waste, as food for the fishes. Then Achilles arose, and spake to the Danaans, saying: — “Verily, Zeus, thou givest to man vast infatuations! Never had King Agamemnon so rankled the soul in my bosom, Never had taken my damsel despite me, unrecking the issue, Saving that Zeus 1 so willed, meaning death to many Achaians. Now, then, hurry for breakfast, and get yourselves ready for battle.” Suiting action to word he quickly dissolved the assembly. Scattering each to his ship they departed; the Myr¬ midons straightway Turned to the gifts, and bore them away to the ship of Achilles. 1 The reader will recall that Zeus only took sides in the quarrel twelve days after it occurred, and then most reluc¬ tantly; but there is human nature in the agreement of both parties that the gods were responsible for their folly: “Adam began it at the tree: The woman that Thou gavest me.” 392 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XIX These they deposited well in the camp, there seated the women, Then the horses were driven by the squires where horses were herded. Now when Briseis, returning as fair as bright Aphro¬ dite, Saw before her the spear-mangled form of lifeless Patroklos, Loud were her wails as she fell on the body in out¬ burst of sorrow, Wildly tearing her beauteous face, her neck, and her bosom. Fair in her tears as a goddess is fair she mournfully murmured: — T “0 Patroklos, to me in my wretchedness kindest of all men! How to me, and forever, hath evil succeeded to evil! Husband, to whom my father and loving mother had given me, Saw I spear-torn and slain in front of our city, Lyr- nessos; Also my brethren three — 'twas the selfsame mother that bore us — Dear ones, alongside my husband, by day of their doom overtaken. Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 393 Yet, even then, when my husband was slain by mighty Achilles, Then when the city of Mynes, my native city, was wasted, E’en in calamity’s face thou soughtest, Patroklos, to cheer me, Saying the wedded wife I should be of godlike Achilles, Even be taken to Phthia and wedded with Myrmidon honors. Therefore I weep thee, unceasingly weep, thou com¬ passionate always.” Thus she spake in her tears, and the women joined in her moaning, Each for her own sad past, intermingled with grief for Patroklos. The Achaians and Achilles Prepare for Battle Thick as the snowflakes of Winter come fluttering down from the heavens, Frosty, and driven by the blast of the Northwind, child of the ether, So thick, then, were the helmets, the shields, the spears, and the breastplates, 394 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Streaming all bright from the ships; and the splendor mounted to heaven, Yea, and the whole earth laughed with the lightning gleam, and it thundered Under the tread of the soldiers; and mid them Achilles was arming. First his greaves he put on, to his ankles fastened with silver, Then his breastplate assumed, and his sword slung over his shoulders; Next he lifted his shield, like the full-orbed moon in its brightness. Even as over the sea a light appeareth to sailors, Light from a fire on a hill-top high in the hut of a shepherd, While, away from their friends, they are driven to sea by a tempest, So from the shield of Achilles the splendor rose to the ether. Then his helmet with horse-hair crest he donned — it was massive — Thickly set as a horse-mane with golden threads by Hephaistos. Lo, it gleamed like a star! His father’s spear from the spear-case . Lastly he drew; it was heavy — no other Achaian could wield it Saving Achilles alone—the ash-spear given to Peleus, Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 395 Cut by Cheiron on Pelion’s peak, a destruction to heroes. Then Automedon, Alkimus helping him, harnessed the horses, Buckled about them the beautiful straps, adjusted the bridles, Stretching behind them the reins to the chariot strong. As he mounted Whip in hand, behind him Achilles stepped, in his armor Blazing as blazeth the sun in his midday course, and in this wise Sharply upbraided the horses — the god-given horses of Peleus: — “Xanthos and Balios both, Podarge’s glorious children, Be ye otherwise minded to bring your master in safety Back to the Danaan host when the battle ceaseth, not leave him Lying dead on the field as ye left unhappy Patroklos.” Then, from under the yoke, spake Xanthos, swift¬ footed war-horse — Suddenly gifted with speech by white-armed Hera, the goddess — 396 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XIX Bowing the while his head; and all his mane from the cushion Crept out down by the yoke and swept the earth, as he answered: — “ Verily, yet for a time will we save thee, mighty Achilles, Yet is the day of thy doom hard by thee, in waiting; nor blame ye Us as the cause, but a god of might, and fate over¬ powering. Not by reason of slowness nor other remissness of ours 1 Tore the Trojans the mail from the shoulders of fallen Patroklos, No, but a god of the highest, the son of lovely-haired Leto, Slew him in front of the fray, and gave the glory to Hector. We twain even might speed like a blast of blustering Zephyr — Swiftest, they say, of winds — but the hoof-beats of fate are behind thee! Here, thou also must fall, and a god and a mortal shall slay thee.” Book XIX HOMER’S ILIAD 397 Thus much Xanthos disclosed when speech the Avengers denied him. Swayed by bitter emotion Achilles said in rejoinder: - “Xanthos, wherefore to me my death foretell? It is needless. Well I know of myself that here my doom shall o’er- take me, Far from father and mother dear; yet falter I will not, No, nor withhold my hand till Troy hath a surfeit of fighting.” Then, as his war-shout rang, to the battle-field thundered the horses. BOOK XXII 1 Panting like fear-stricken fawns the Trojans who won to the city t Once and again were drinking to quench the thirst that consumed them, Then on the parapet stood for coolness; but, anxious no longer, On toward the wall the Danaans marched with shields on their shoulders. Front of the Skaian Gates, outside the city, was Hector Chained, as it were, to the spot, for fate accursed constrained him. Then to Achilles, still sharp in pursuit, spake Phoibos Apollo: — 1 The omitted books, XX and XXI, are confessedly below the general standard of the Iliad, and very little in either appears to be part of the original story. To maintain the connection it is only necessary for the reader to know that Achilles wins a signal victory. He divides the Trojan forces, and one part he drives toward the river and slays many; but when he turns upon the other part who are fleeing to the city, Apollo fires Agenor to meet him in single fight; and when he has thus distracted the attention of Achilles snatches Agenor away, and himself takes the form of the latter, and pretends to flee in the opposite direction just beyond the reach of Achilles, who wastes his time in vain pursuit. When Book XXII opens Achilles has not yet discovered his mistake. Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 399 “Wherefore, thou son of Peleus, thy swift feet tire in pursuing — Thou who art mortal still following me, a god and immortal? Thou dost not know me that I am a god, and art mad altogether! Feeble advantage thou tak’st of the sorry plight of the Trojans! They are escaped to the city while vainly thou dog- gest my footsteps. Me thou wilt slay not, try as thou mayest; perish I cannot.” Bitterly wroth was Achilles, who straightway an¬ swered him, saying: — “Thou hast befooled me, Far-Worker, of all the gods most accursed, Guilefully turning me here from the wall by thy witchcraft; otherwise many, Many a Trojan had bitten the dust ere he entered the city. So, of the fruits of my victory earned I am cheated; them thou hast rescued Easy of heart, since nowise thou dreadest my ven¬ geance hereafter. Vengeance I surely would take if power to mete it were in me.” 400 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Thus he said in the pride of his heart, and was gone to the city, Speeding as speedeth a horse, a winner of chariot races, When, at a furious pace, it stretcheth away on the race-course; Even so swiftly Achilles plied feet and knees to the city. First of all was the eye of the old man, Priam, to see him Dashing across the plain, and blazing as Sirius blazeth, Star which cometh at harvest tide and, peerless in glory, Paleth the myriad stars as darkness deepens at night¬ fall, Star which for second name men call the “Dog of Orion.” Brightest, brightest is he, yet is set for an omen of evil — Fever and death is the harvest he beareth to shud¬ dering mortals: Ominous, thus, was the glare of the arms of on-coming Achilles. Crazed at the sight the old man groaned, and in wild apprehension Shrieked to his son his entreaties; for Hector in front of the gateway Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 401 Stood with resolute heart, determined to fight with Achilles. Lifting his hands in pathetic appeal the old man besought him: — “ Hector, stay not to face, dear son, this man single- handed, One who is mightier far, lest thy end be certain and speedy, Merciless! would he were dear to the gods as to me, and no more so, Then were he dead on the field, and dogs and kites would devour him — Then would the ache of my heart have some of its misery lessened. Think of my many sons he hath slain or sold into bondage! Even now two of my children, Lykaon and young Polydoros, I am not able to see mid the men got back to the city! If, indeed, they be dead, gone down to the mansions of Hades, Grief will it be to my soul, and grief to the mother who bare them, Yet to the rest of the people the pain will be little enduring — Little so thou diest not, cut off by the hand of Achilles. vol. n — 26 402 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Come, now, enter the wall, dear son, and be the preserver Both of the men and the women of Troy, nor cover Achilles Over with glory, thyself and thy sweet life being the forfeit. Pity thy father, the aged, yet instinct with fore¬ sight and feeling, Ill-starred, doomed by Kronides Zeus to be slain, and my footsteps Leave life’s ultimate threshold my last sights visions of horror, Sons being slain, my daughters and sons’ wives dragged into bondage, Infant children dashed to the earth in the fury of carnage. 1 Desolate chambers behind me, at last, in front of my doorway Dogs of ravin will tear me dead, dogs fed at my table Maddened by drinking my blood, when soul is parted from body Slain by a ruthless hand. With young men all things are seemly, Even when dead on the field with sword-cuts gashed and with spear-thrusts; But, when an old man dead, gray-headed, gray- bearded and shrunken, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 403 Dogs dishonor his body in hideous nakedness lying — That is the ghastliest fate that befalleth suffering mortals.” Thus he said, and from hoary head in agonized passion Tore off the whitened hair, but moved not the spirit of Hector. Next, his mother, her tears streaming down, with pitiful moanings Bared her bosom with one hand, the breasts upraised with the other, Then, in tears, and in winged words, appealed to him, saying: — “ Hector, reverence these, my child, if in infancy ever I by this breast have nursed thee to sleep, and pity thy mother. Think of it, darling child, and inside the walls of the city Baffle this ruthless foo, not stand sole fighter against him. Merciless man! should he slay thee, not I, the mother who bare thee Ever would weep at thy funeral bier, thou flower of my children, 404 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII No, nor thy hardly-won wife; but far, very far from thy kindred, Dead at the Argive ships vile dogs will haste to devour thee.” Thus with crying and tears they besought, but Hec¬ tor they moved not, Stedfast of heart to remain and face gigantic Achilles. Like as a snake in his mountain haunt, full-fed upon poisons, Faceth intruder’s approach, and, swelling with furious anger, Meets him with baleful stare all coiled for a spring in the snake-den, So, with purpose unshaken, stood Hector, instant for conflict, Leaning against his spear by a jutting tower of the gateway. Stirred by bitter reflections his proud heart pondered in this wise: — “Woe is to me if I enter the gates, though walls be my shelter! First will Polydamas taunt me, who urged me to march to the city During that fatal night when Achilles woke to the conflict; Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 405 Yet I heeded him not, and ’twere better far had I heeded. Now that the army is lost, and my own rash folly hath lost it, Shamed in sight of the Trojans, the mute reproach of her women, People less daring than I am hereafter will speak of me, saying: — ‘Hector relied on his strength, and his rashness cost us the army.’ Thus will they say, and with truth; and for me it were manifold better Man against man to slay him, and make my return as a victor, Or, after glorious fight, to die in front of the city. What if I part with my shield, lay aside my spear and my helmet, Go meet Achilles unarmed, and promise to give the Atreidai Helen and all the possessions brought hither by prince Alexander — All that was cause of the war — and also divide in addition All that the city containeth, confirmed by vote of the elders Not to conceal one thing, but make an equal division— Nay, these are dreams, unsubstantial, no time to give way to such fancies! 406 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Granted I went with proposals like these, unarmed as a woman, He would slay me I know, with neither respect nor compassion. He is no amorous nymph, not born of a rock nor an oak-tree, One to be wooed and won over as swain payeth court to a maiden, After the manner of maiden and swain paying court to each other. Better, in different sort, right now rush together in combat, Learning to which of the twain the Olympian victory giveth.” Thus he waited and mused, and lo, Achilles was on him, Awful as Ares the war-god, the death-dealing shaker- of-helmets, Brandishing over his shoulder the spear of Peleus his father Poised and portentous; and round him the bronze- glint sheen of his armor Flamed like a blazing fire, or the sun as it riseth in splendor. Fear gat hold of Hector beholding; longer he dared not Keep to his place, he abandoned the gates, and was off in a panic. Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 407 Hotly Achilles pursued, secure in the pride of his swiftness. Just as the hawk of the mountains, the creature that flyeth the swiftest, Darteth with easy grace in pursuit of a timorous pigeon, She underneath in the terror of flight; and he,scream¬ ing sharply, Ofttimes pounceth adown, and his heart is bent on the capture; So straight at him Achilles was flying, and Hector in terror Fled neath the Trojan walls, and plied his knees to the utmost. They, along by the lookout, along by the breezy wild-fig tree, Ever from under the wall, and down by the wagon- road dashing, Came to the fountains, the fair-flowing twain; and there were the sources Twain upspringing from earth to feed the swirling Skamander. One of the two was flowing with water warm, and about it Steam was spreading therefrom as smoke from the flame of a fire; Cold the water the other was running, — cold as a hailstone, 408 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Cold as the driven snow, or water hardened to crystal. There, too, close by these, were broad tanks, beauti¬ ful stonework, Where, in the days of peace ere the Argives com¬ passed the city, Troy’s fair wives and her daughters once washed their glistening raiment. By, by these they ran, one fleeing, the other pur¬ suing, Both at a tearing pace; for neither for victim nor bull’s-hide Toiled they — the usual prize men offer for winning a footrace — No, but the stake of the race was the life of chivalrous Hector. Even as rounding a goal the prize-winning storm¬ footed horses Sweep at a mighty pace, and a mighty prize lieth ready, Either a tripod or woman, at funeral games of a hero, So, now, thrice did the twain encircle the city of Priam Borne by their hurrying feet; and all the gods were beholding. First of them all to speak was the father of men and immortals, Saying, “Ah me, it grieves me to see a man so be¬ loved Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 409 Fleeing for life round the wall; my heart is heavy for Hector Who, on the summits of Ida as well as the heights of the city Failed not to burn in mine honor fat haunches of oxen; for all that Now with relentless foot is he hunted to death by Achilles. Come now, consider, ye gods, and determine whether to save him, Or, is his time now come, and Achilles appointed to slay him?” Then, for answer, responded the goddess, bright¬ eyed Athena:— “Sire of the lightning gleam, cloud-darkener, wild is thy saying! Being a mortal man, and his doom-day long ago settled, Would’st thou, his course now run, from the death- shadow back again snatch him? Do it; but know that the rest of the gods are all disapproving.” Then for rejoinder responded dread Zeus who darkeneth heaven: — “Cheer up, Tritogeneia, my daughter, seeing I spoke not 410 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Owing to settled resolve, and to thee would fain be indulgent. All that thy heart may prompt thee to do, do it, nothing withholding.” Thus he said, and incited Athena who needed no urging; So, on her errand of death, she dashed down the heights of Olympos. \ , ' . Then, with relentless foot was Hector pressed by Achilles. Even as dog, having stirred from its covert the fawn of a deer, Driveth it sharply through winding dells and glens of a mountain, And, though it seeketh escape and hideth itself in the thickets, Yet keepeth tracking him out, and runneth unceas¬ ing, and finds him; Even so Hector escaped not the eye of wary Achilles. Often as he might essay to reach the Dardanian gate¬ way, Often to turn him aside as he came by the towers of the rampart, Hoping his friends from above would impede Achilles with missiles, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 411 Just so often the latter with quick prevision would turn him Back once more to the plain, and himself kept the path next the city. Even as one in a dream of being pursued or pursuing Never can scape from the danger behind, nor catch the pursued one, Even so neither could gain on his foe, nor pursued nor pursuer. Thus would Hector have scaped from o’ershadowing death altogether Only that now was the last, the very last time that Apollo Stood anigh to his aid, and quickened his knees and his spirit, Seeing Achilles by nod of the head had warned the Achaians, Neither allowed them to cast any pestilent arrows at Hector, Fearing that some one might hit him, and he at the slaying be second. But, when the hurrying twain for the fourth time came to the fountains, Right then Zeus, the All-father, his golden balances poising, Placed two fates in the opposite scales, of death, the destroyer, One of Achilles, the other of Hector, tamer-of-horses, 412 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XXII Holding the beam by the middle; and sealed was the death-doom of Hector, His scale sinking to Hades, — and Phoibos Apollo forsook him. Then to the side of Achilles, the goddess, bright-eyed Athena, Came, and in light-flitting words she said as she halted anigh him: “Sure are my hopes this day for both of us, mighty Achilles, Even to bear to the ships a victory great for the Argives, Hector being our spoil, albeit he battle untiring. Longer he cannot escape us, no, not if far-darting Apollo Weep, and grovel, and beg great Zeus who wieldeth the aegis. Stand thou here, nothing more, and get breath; to go after this fellow I will take on myself, and beguile him to manful en¬ counter." Thus said Athena. Achilles complied, and with inward elation Halted as bid, and leaned on his spear bronze-pointed and ashen. She, then leaving him there, went on and overtook Hector, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD % 413 Shape and untiring voice of his brother, Deiphobos, taking. Nigh him she drew, and in winged words, deluded him, saying: — “ Brother, right sorely, I trow, hath mighty Achilles beset thee, Chasing thee time after time all round the city of Priam. Come, let us stand our ground, together abiding his onset.” Then to Athena, for answer, replied great crest- waving Hector: — “ Dearest of brethren by far, Deiphobos, wert thou aforetime, Even of all the sons to Hekabe born and to Priam. Even more yet I honor thee now, who ventured for my sake Forth to come from the wall while the rest stay skulking behind it.” Then for rejoinder responded the goddess, bright¬ eyed Athena:— “Brother, ’tis true that father and mother and all of our kindred Begged and besought me one after another to stay in the city. 414 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Awful as that is the panic, and all are quaking with terror: Yet the heart in my breast was too troubled, seeing thy danger. Now for a dash, and a man-to-man fight, and no sparing of spears! Let us find out if Achilles can finish us both, and our armor Bear as a spoil to the ships, or thy spear end his pre¬ sumption.” Such was her talk; and misled by her guile he fol¬ lowed Athena. When they had drawn anigh as they came to meet one another, First of the twain to speak to his foe was crest-waving Hector: — “Longer I fear thee not, son of Peleus, e’en as afore¬ time Thrice round the city of Priam I fled, avoiding thy onset. Otherwise now is my purpose, to stand and slay thee, or perish. First let us call on the gods to witness and safeguard our compact. I will agree no unseemly abasement to do to thy body, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 415 Should I prevail, and slay thee, and Zeus maketh me the survivor; No, but when I have taken thy glorious armor, Achilles, Then will I give to the Argives thy body; promise thou likewise.” Grim was the look of Achilles as fiercely he answered him, saying: — “Hector, talk not to me, thou madman, of compacts between us: Never have lions and men made truce or mutual pledges, Neither do wolves and lambs have hearts in unison beating, No, but mischief imagine unceasing, one to the other; So ’twixt us is no love lost, nor chance for mutual pledges, Not till one of us fall, and his blood glut Ares, the war-god. Call to thine aid every spark of thy manhood; bit¬ terly need’st thou Prove thee a spearman true, a warrior stout and unblenching, Further escape is there none, for Pallas Athena hath doomed thee 416 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Under my spear to fall; and payment in full shalt thou render Now for my comrades slain when thy spear raged madly in battle.” So, on ceasing, he levelled and threw his long-shad¬ owed spear. Hector, seeing it come, crouched down and avoided the spear-cast; Over his head it flew, and was fixed in the earth; but Athena Snatched it forth and returned it; and, nowise seeing it, Hector Said to his matchless foe, “Thy spear hath missed me, Achilles, Neither from Zeus wast thou ware of my fate, though loudly thou saidst it. Nay, thou art clever of speech, and thy words are crafty and thievish, Meant to make me afraid, and steal from me courage and valor. Hope not that I shall take flight and expose my back to thy spear-stroke, No, I shall dash straight on, and receive thy shaft in my bosom If, as thou sayest, the gods so will; now, in thy turn, avoid thee Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 417 My spear of bronze, and oh, how I wish in thy flesh it were buried! Then would the burden of war be lighter far to the Trojans, Thou being brought to thy death who hast been their greatest destruction.” Thus having spoken he levelled and cast his long- shadowed spear Boldly, and missed not, — the shield of Peleides he hit in the centre, — Yet, far away from the shield it glanced and re¬ bounded; and Hector Angered, seeing in vain he had cast the ponderous weapon, Stood there confounded, his spear had been cast, nor had he another. / Then he Deiphobos called, his white-shielded brother, and loudly, Asking a fresh long spear, — there was no Deiphobos nigh him! Then in his heart of hearts sank the awful truth, and he muttered: — “Lo, to my death the immortals have called me, and loud is the summons! Surely I thought I saw the hero Deiphobos by me, vol. ii — 27 418 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Yet he is safe in the wall, and the shape a disguise of Athena. Now close upon me is death the unmerciful! Distant it is not, Shun it I cannot! Abandoned by Zeus and far- darting Apollo, Erstwhile my watchful defenders, dread fate hath followed and found me! Now, then, to die, but not without effort, not without glory! Now for unflinching achievement that men of the future shall hear of!” Suiting action to word he drew the falchion mighty Hanging along by his side and, collecting himself for an effort, Darted like high-flying eagle which cometh suddenly earthward Down through the louring clouds, and intent, for his prey, upon snatching Either a new-born lamb, or hare that is crouching in terror: Even like that on Achilles sprang Hector, shaking his broad-sword. Hasting to meet him, the latter, nigh bursting with furious anger Held before him his beautiful targe with its curious markings, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 419 Shaking his helmet bright with its fourfold crest and its horsehair. Like to the star that at nightfall outshineth its comely companions — Hesperus, fairest of stars whose beauty is set in the heavens — Such was the gleam of the spear-point keen which before him Achilles Shook in his stout right hand with deadly purpose to Hector, Eyeing his beautiful flesh for the fittest spot to trans¬ fix him. Now all the rest of his body was fenced by the beautiful armor Reft as spoil from the slain when he vanquished the might of Patroklos; But, where his collar-bones met, disuniting the neck from the shoulder, There the gullet appeared, where the speeding of life is the quickest. There, as Hector rushed on, Achilles planted a spear- stroke, Driving the point right through, but failing to sunder the windpipe So that he still might speak the warnings of fate to his slayer. Down in the dust he fell, and above him vaunted Achilles: — 420 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII “ Hector, fondly thou thoughtest when stripping the arms from Patroklos, Thou wouldst be safe, and dreadedst me not because I was absent. Fool! for afar, by the hollow ships, a stouter avenger, I, even I, was left, and thy knees have I palsied; and foully Dogs and kites shall entreat thee, but he have a glorious funeral.” Then, and his voice was faint, said crest-waving Hector in answer: — “Now by thy life, by thy knees, and thine own fond parents, I pray thee Suffer me not at the ships to be torn by the dogs of the Argives, Nay, but of bronze and of gold accept to thy full satisfaction Ransom my father will pay and the queenly mother that bare me; Then give my body again that the Trojans and wives of the Trojans Burn me at home, on the funeral pyre, with rites that are seemly.” Grim was the look of Achilles as thus he said in rejoinder: — “Talk not to me, thou dog, nor beg me by knees nor by parents! Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 421 Would I could bring my mind to cut thee in pieces, and eat thee Raw for the deeds thou hast done; and none the less am I certain Man doth not live who can drive from thy head the dogs that shall rend it, Not should he proffer right here a ten-fold or twenty¬ fold ransom, Aye, and twice as much promise; nay, not if Dar- danian Priam Offered thy weight in gold, not then should the mother that bare thee Wail o’er thee laid on a bier; but dogs and vultures shall eat thee.” Then, and his death was nigh, spake crest-waving Hector in answer: — “Now as thou art I see thee, unyielding, with heart as of iron. Yet beware lest for my sake the wrath of the gods shall pursue thee, And, on thy day of fate, with theSkaianGates as a witness, Paris and Phoibos Apollo shall slay thee, thy might notwithstanding. ’ ’ These were his final words, and the death-shadow covered him wholly. Gone from his limbs was the soul, and downward to Hades it fluttered 422 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Mourning his fate, and leaving unlived his youth and his manhood. Then, tho’ he spake to the dead, Achilles answered him, saying: — “Die! and for my death I wait its approach and shall welcome it, even, Any time Zeus and the rest of the gods are pleased to decree it.” Thus he said, and withdrew from the dead the ponderous spear, Laying it down at a distance; and then from his shoulders the armor Rent, all covered with blood; meanwhile the other Achaians Up about them came running, and stood there gazing with wonder Both at the stalwart frame and wondrous beauty of Hector. Not a man of them all but stabbed him, and said to his neighbor: — “Look at him! Easier far is this same Hector to deal with Now than yesterday, bringing his fire to burn up our shipping.” Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 423 Thus they said to each other, and stood about him and stabbed him. Then, as soon as the armor was reft from the body, Achilles Rose and in winged words addressed the Danaans, saying: — “Hearken to me, my friends, ye leaders and princes of Argos: Seeing by grace of the gods this man is removed, who aforetime Did us many an ill, yea, more than the rest alto¬ gether, Come, let us take our arms, and make assault on the city, Thus ascertaining how Troy feeleth now, this man having fallen, Whether abandon their high-walled town, or stay and defend it. Hold! my soldierly ardor hath made me forget for a moment! Lying in death at the ships is one unwept and un¬ buried, Even Patroklos, and him I shall never forget while I linger Here with the living, and knees can stir; and even in Hades 424 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII E’en though the dead are forgot of the dead, I shall think of my comrade. So, while the youth of the army are singing a psean of triumph, Back let us march to our barracks, the ships, and carry the body. Glory enough for one day that mighty Hector is fallen, Almost a god to the Trojans, so great their observ¬ ance and worship.” Thus he said, and for Hector unseemly abasement was planning: Both of the feet of the dead man he bored from the heel to the ankle, 1 Then through both thrust ox-hide thongs, and tied them securely Back of the car so the head would trail with the chariot going. Then he loaded the armor thereon and, the chariot mounting, Lashed the steeds to a run; and not unwilling the coursers Flew, and as Hector was dragged a dust-cloud rose, and about him Fluttered his sable locks, and his head, aforetime so comely, Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 425 Helpless lay in the dust; for Zeus to his enemies left him There in the land of his birth that day to be foully dishonored. Thus was his whole head buried in dust; and his agonized mother Tore her hair, and the glittering veil cast wildly from off her, Ah, and exceeding bitter her cry, her son thus be¬ holding. Piteous, too, were the groans of his father fond, and the people Joined in the wail up and down in the city with moans universal. Greater distress had not been, nor dismay, had towering Ilios Sunk from her high estate consumed by fell confla¬ gration. Such was the frenzy of Priam the people barely withheld him Seeking to leave the gates, and he begged every man of them, saying: — “Hold, friends! Unhand me, I pray, tho’ kindly your purpose, and let me Go from the city alone, and seek the camp of the Argives. 426 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII I would beseech this man, this accursed worker of horrors, Haply to bring him to shame in sight of his fellows, and pity Unto my years; he, too, hath a father, aged as I am, Peleus, by whom he was bred to become a bane to the Trojans, Chiefly to me, for full many a son he hath slain in his flower. Yet is my grief for one more than all the rest, tho’ I mourn them, This one, whose loss bringeth pangs that will drive me in sorrow to Hades, Hector! Would he had died in mine arms, for then his unhappy Mother and I would have mourned, but with funeral rites as is fitting.” Thus he spake in his grief, and the men all joined in his groanings. ' Hekabe, then, mid the women, led off in wild lamen¬ tation : — “Son, ah, woe is me! why longer live in my sorrow, Thou being dead, by night-time and daytime my boast in the city, J Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 427 Aye, and a blessing to Troy, to all both its men and < its women! Like to a god they hailed thee; exceeding great was the glory Thou wert to them when alive, yet death’s dread doom is upon thee!” Thus spake the mother in tears; but the wife of Hector to this time Knew not the truth, for messenger came not to tell that her husband Waited without the gates; but she, in a nook of the palace, Wrought at a web that was purple and bright, and in it was weaving Flowers of many a hue; and she called to her fair- tressed attendants Bidding them place on the fire a tripod mighty, providing Water warmed for a bath for Hector returning from battle — Little dreaming that, far from baths, by the wiles of Athena Hector already was fallen, struck down by the hand of Achilles. When, now, wailing she heard, and groanings that came from the tower, 428 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII Tottered beneath her her limbs, and down to earth fell the shuttle. Then, and far other her cry, she called to her hand¬ maidens, saying: — “ Hither! two follow me! I go to see what be- tideth! Moanings I hear, ’tis my queen-mother’s voice, and the heart in my bosom Beats as ’twould leap to my mouth, and the knees are stiffened beneath me. Nigh to the children of Priam is death— may ear never hear it, Yet am I sorely afraid my Hector, cut off from the city, Fleeth alone with Achilles behind, and the pride that possessed him Now hath been his undoing; for back with his men he remained not, No, he was far in the front, and his spirit yielded to no man.” Thus having said, from the hall she sped and, heart beating wildly, Frantic she flew down the street with her hand¬ maidens running beside her. Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 429 Soon she was top of the tower where the men were thronging, and stood there Peering down from the wall, and lo before her was Hector Dragged in the dust, remorselessly dragged, and swift were the horses Bearing the body away to the hostile camp of the Argives. Darkness like unto death shut the sight from her eyes, and she tottered Backward and fell, and her breath grew faint till seemingly lifeless. Far from her head flew the glittering bands confining her tresses — Fillet and netting and coronal fair, and the veil Aphrodite Gave on the day of her wedding, the day when crest- waving Hector Led her a bride from Eetion’s home, giving gifts without number. Round about her came flocking her sisters-in-law, and among them Lifted her up in her death-like swoon, and warded the death-stroke. So, when she breathed once more, and feeling re¬ turned, and her reason, Moaning, and choking with sobs, she said mid the sorrowing women: —- 430 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXII “Hector, ah woe is me! Alike were we born to misfortune, Both of us, thou in Troy, in the haughty palace of Priam, I in Thebes, where the woods slope down from the summits of Plakos, There where Eetion reigned, the father who nurtured my childhood, Ill-starred sire of a child ill-born — and would I had not been! Under the bowels of earth, down, down, to the man¬ sions of Hades Thou art departing, and me, in my bitter affliction, thou leavest Widowed and lone in the halls; thy child, too, merely an infant, ^ Joy to thee nevermore, nor thou his needed defender. Even if he should escape this dreadful war with the Argives Yet in the after time will his days be labor and sorrow. Men will encroach on his lands; for the day that a boy is an orphan Maketh him friendless; with eyes cast down, de¬ jected and needy, Goeth, his face all tears, such child to friends of his father, Timidly plucking the cloak of one and the coat of another: Book XXII HOMER’S ILIAD 431 One of these in compassion just giveth a sip at the wine-cup, Barely enough to moisten the lips, not moisten the palate. 1 Boys unorphaned as yet will drive him away from the table Dealing him blows with the fist, and saying with insolent bluster, ‘ Here, take this, and begone! no father of thine feasteth with us.’ Then, in tears, will our boy come back to his mother, a widow, Even our little prince, who once on the knees of his father Fed upon marrow alone and cuts of fatlings the choicest; Aye, and when sleep overtook him, and childish play was forgotten, 1 This line was evidently a proverb. This portion of the lament has been pronounced an inter¬ polation, on the ground that the child’s grandfather was a King, and his uncles still living; but the mother is looking forward several years to a time when the baby would have become a youth, and might well have no near male relatives. Moreover, this lament is by the author of Book XXIV where Priam’s surviving sons are given a bad name. Apart from these considerations Andromache was in a state of mind at the time to take an exaggerated view of the evil conditions surrounding the child. To the translator this lament seems exceptionally fine, even for Homer, and he believes that interpolation is suspected on insufficient grounds. 432 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XXII Slept in a stately bed in the tender care of a nurse¬ maid — Couch of the softest down, and heart filled full of contentment — Many a sorrow awaiteth him now, bereft of his father, Even our ‘ little prince', as the Trojans fondly have called him, Seeing that thou alone wast ward of their gates and their ramparts. Lying uncared for, by ships of thy foes, afar from thy parents, Coiling worms will devour thee when dogs are sated with gnawing — Naked, yet raiment of thine is stored in thy halls in abundance, "I Fine and beautiful vesture as hand of woman could make it. All I devote to ravening flames, as it were on a pyre, Nowise a service to thee since thou amid them wilt burn not, Rut, in thy countrymen's eyes, some show of funereal honors." Thus she spake in her woe mid the answering sobs of the women. BOOK xxm Homer nowhere shows himself more of a necromancer than by the skill with which the sympathies of the reader are shifted in this book from father, mother, and wife of Hector to Achilles, the immediate cause of their sorrows. Fate does not play so obvious a part as in the Greek tragedies; but the reader cannot help seeing that Patrok- los, Hector, and Achilles were involved in a network of circumstances such that each must play the part he did, and the catastrophe was in each case inevitable; and all justly command sympathy. The book begins as follows: — Thus all over the city was wailing; without, the Achaians When they had ended their march at the fleet and the Hellespont, mostly Scattered each to his ship; but the Myrmidons still were together Kept by Achilles, who spake to his war-loving followers, saying: — “Myrmidons, men of swift coursers, my trusty and chosen companions, No time is this to unloose from the car our strong¬ footed horses, vol. ii — 28 434 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII But, with our horses and chariots both let us, draw¬ ing anigh him, Make our moan for Patroklos. a tribute due the departed. When of our bitter grief we are sated, then and not till then Let us unharness the horses, and funeral supper make ready.” Thus he spake, and they groaned all together, led by Achilles. Thrice then around the corse they drave their heavy¬ maned horses, Moaning; and Thetis within them inspired a passion of sorrow. Wet were the sands with the tears of men and wet was their armor — Tears of the great, so great was the fallen, so mighty in battle. After the ceremonies were over Achilles gives a funeral feast, but refuses all solicitations to take food himself until the funeral rites for Patroklos are completed. The following extracts, giving an account of the ghost of Patroklos, the procuring of wood for his pyre, and other matters incident to his funeral, are the gems of the book:— Book XXIII HOMER’S ILIAD 435 The Ghost of Patroklos and Getting Wood for the Funeral Pyre All, now, ready for sleep, went every man to his camp-fire, All but Achilles, who lay by the shore of the bois¬ terous ocean, Heavily groaning, and lying about him the Myrmi¬ dons many Slept in an open space where the waves rolled in on the sea-beach. When, now, slumber had seized him, unloosing his heart from its sorrows, v Slumber sweet and profound — for his stalwart limbs were aweary After his furious chase of Hector by Ilios wind¬ swept — Sudden before him a spectre appeared, ’twas the ghost of Patroklos, All like the man himself, in size and eyes and in features, Even in voice the same, and like was the raiment that clad him. Over the head of the sleeper it bent, and spake to him, saying: — 436 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII “Thou, Achilles, asleep, and I from thy memory faded! Never forgattest thou me when alive, but dead thou forgettest. Haste thee the funeral rites that admit to the portals of Hades. Far, far away am I kept by the shades, the spirits departed, Nor am I suffered at all to consort with them over the river: So all homeless I wander by Hades’ wide-gated dwelling. Give thy hand to my tears I beseech thee, seeing hereafter I shall return no more from Hades after my burning. Never, as living men, shall we sit apart from our comrades Taking sweet counsel together; for me hath destiny woful Swallowed up in the doom to man at his birth-hour appointed. Thou, even thou, art doomed in all thy glorious beauty Under the Trojan walls to die, — the foeman ex¬ ulting. So this thing I entreat and implore, and hope thy compliance: Book XXIII HOMER’S ILIAD 437 Let not thy bones be laid apart from mine, but to¬ gether, Even as in thy home we were reared together in childhood. I was a little boy when Menoitios brought me from Opus Unto thy father’s house, for unhappily killing a playmate, Even Amphidimas’ son, on the selfsame day that I slew him, — Child, and meaning it not, in a pet while playing at jackstones. Straightway chivalrous Peleus received me into his household, Trained me nobly with thee, and ‘ squire of Achilles ’ he named me; So, when united in death, let a common urn hold our ashes.” Then, in response to the phantom outspake swift¬ footed Achilles: — “Wherefore, dearly beloved, hast thou come hither, and wherefore Bidden me things I should do of myself ? Yea, yea! I will do them. Draw thou anigh me, I pray, and embracing, though but a moment, So shall we comfort each other, our woes for that moment forgotten.” 438 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII Suiting action to word he stretched forth his arms to the phantom, Yet he encountered it not; for the shade under earth like a vapor Vanished with gibbering cry; and astounded up rose Achilles, Wringing his hands, and amazed, exclaimed in an outburst of sorrow: — “Gods! this is wondrous strange! There remaineth even in Hades Something, a shadow, a semblance, though living substance it hath not! Lo, now, the whole night long hath the ghost of hap¬ less Patroklos Stood right here by my side, and with piteous moan¬ ing and wailing, Told me his wants, each one, and it looked like Patroklos exactly.” Thus he said; and a passion of tears he stirred in his hearers So they were wailing still when the rosy touch of the morning Fell on the pallid dead; and, with morning, King Agamemnon Sent a detachment of mules and of men for the getting of firewood, Book XXIII HOMER’S ILIAD 439 Setting Meriones over the band, the strenuous Cretan. Forth from the camp they fared, equipped with wood-choppers’ axes, Also with ropes well made; and the mules tramped on just before them, Oft breaking into a canter, and rearing, plunging, and shying, 1 Till, in the end, they came to the well-watered gorges of Ida. There they lustily chopped, and the high-plumed chiefs of the forest Fell with a crash; and, cutting and splitting the trunks, the Achaians 1 This line in the original is manifestly designed to give the clattering sound of the mules in rapid motion. It contains three adverbs found nowhere else and probably coined for the purpose of sound, indicating motion up, down, and sidewise, and commonly translated “up hill, down dale, and zig-zag,” but this rendering gives no significance to the sound of the line, particularly as the men were on foot and expected to keep up. In the opinion of the translator Homer means to indicate that the mules had many a frolic, and that the ad¬ verbs refer to the accompanying body motions as above rendered. The sound of the original, and perhaps the spirit, would be better given if rendered: Oft breaking into a canter with frantic fantastical antic. If the usual interpretation of the line be correct it might be rendered: Up-hill often and down, and by many a tortuous winding. 440 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII Bound them behind the mules; and they, through the undergrowth tearing, Cut the ground with their hooves; and logs the wood¬ cutters carried, All as Meriones told them to do, their strenuous captain. So, on the shore, and in orderly pile, rose the wood where Achilles Purposed a mighty tomb for himself as well as Patroklos. Achilles Shears the Hair Vowed to the River Spercheios Sudden a new-born thought came into the heart of Achilles: Standing apart from the pyre, he sheared off a fore¬ lock golden, — Lock he had suffered to grow untrimmed for the river Spercheios, — Saying, as sadly he gazed o’er the dark sea’s billowy pathway: — “Vain was the vow, Spercheios, once vowed by Peleus my father, That, on my happy return to the land of my birth, I would straitly Book XXIII HOMER’S ILIAD 441 Shear mine hair in thine honor, and offer a hecatomb sacred Over thy fountains, where standeth thy temple and altar of incense. Thus did the old man vow, but his hopes thou hast still disappointed: So, as I never go back to my own dear land, I would offer Unto the hero Patroklos this lock to bear on his journey.” Ceasing, the lock he placed in the clay-cold hand of his comrade. Winds Fan the Flame of the Pyre Lo, now, the funeral pile of the hapless dead would not kindle. Then, once more, came a new-born thought to the heart of Achilles: Standing apart from the pyre, he prayed two blus¬ tering storm-winds, Boreas mighty, and Zephyr, and promised them offerings gracious, Also the while from a goblet of gold poured many libations, Begging them come to the pyre that the wood might hasten to kindle, 442 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII So that the body might burn, and at once; and light- footed Iris, Hearing his prayers, departed to carry the storm- winds his message. They at the moment were met in the house of tem¬ pestuous Zephyr, All at a joyous banquet; and Iris, hurrying thither, Stopped on the threshold of stone; and they, as soon as they saw her, Rose, and each of them asked her to sit at the table beside him. She, however, refused to be seated, and told them her message: — “No seat for me! I am going straight back to the streams of the ocean, Unto the Aithiops’ land, for there they are heca¬ tombs burning Unto us gods, and my portion I want of the sacrifice offered. Up, now, Achilles is praying to Boreas shrill and to Zephyr, Begging them come in their might, and promiseth offerings seemly, Wishing their aid to enkindle the pyre whereon for his burning Fallen Patroklos lies, whom all the Achaians are mourning.” Book XXIII HOMER'S ILIAD 443 Thus she spake and departed: and they, in response to her bidding, Rose with a mighty sound, and the clouds drave wildly before them. Swiftly over the sea they swept with their gusts, and the billows Waked 'neath their shrilly blasts: and coming to deep-soiled Troy-land Down they swooped on the pyre, and a wondrous fire set a-roaring. Thus they the whole night long cast the burning embers together, Blowing with whistling blasts; and all night long great Achilles, Forth from a golden bowl in a two-handled cup he was holding, Drew off wine, and the earth he drenched with con¬ tinuous pouring, Calling time after time on the shade of hapless Patroklos. Like as a father bewaileth a son while burning his ashes — Son that is newly wed who leaVeth his parents sore stricken — So Achilles lamented his friend as the ashes were burning, Dragging his worn-out frame by the pyre, and loud were his groanings. 444 HOMER’S ILIAD Book XXIII Just as the dawn-star came to tell the earth of the day-break, After which over the sea sweepeth Morn in her mantle of saffron, Right then the funeral pile burned out, and the fire ceased blazing. Then, too, the winds went back, retracing the path to their homesteads Over the Thracian main; and wild were its surgings and sobbings. Nigh to the pyre, and in slumber sweet, Achilles was lying, Where he in weariness fell, and on rushed sleep in a moment. The description of the way the bones of Patroklos were collected and buried is repeated almost verbatim later in regard to Hector, and therefore is omitted here. The remainder of the book — more than six hundred lines — gives an account of the funeral games in honor of the dead. Those who disbelieve in the unity of authorship of the Iliad regard this account as by a later hand; and it obviously has nothing to do with the story, and is too long to be included in an abridged translation like this. BOOK XXIV Ended, now, were the games; and the people re¬ paired to the galleys, Scattering each to his own, and when they had taken their supper Turned to the comfort of slumber; but, all unlike them, Achilles Yearned for Patroklos, the friend who was gone, and sleep that subdueth All men came not, and this way and that he turned on his pillow, Thinking of all they had done and hardships en¬ countered together Cleaving the battles of men and the sea’s tempes¬ tuous billows. Many a bitter tear poured forth at such fond recol¬ lections, Much he in restlessness tumbled and tossed, then suddenly starting Up from his couch he would stalk from his camp, and along by the sea-shore 1 1 Here, as in other passages, Achilles when in trouble re¬ sorted to the sea for consolation — perhaps being so repre¬ sented because son of a sea-nymph. 446 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XXIV Aimlessly wander; and never, when night was spent, did the morning Find him asleep when the sea and the shores grew bright at her dawning; Nay, it was then he would yoke to his car his swift¬ flying horses, Tying Hector behind to be trailed in the dust and dishonored. Thrice would he drag the corse round the grave of fallen Patroklos, Then turn in at the camp; but Hector always he left there Stretched in the dust face down; but Apollo every defacement Kept from the body for all that, for he for the man felt compassion Even when dead, and the sogis of gold spread over him wholly So that the body was torn not, tho' dragged with fury exceeding. vp.. Glorious Hector, thus, did he foully entreat in his madness, But, from Olympos, the gods looked on with dis¬ pleasure, and counselled Stealing the body by Hermes, the far-sighted Slayer- of-Argus. Book XXIV HOMER’S ILIAD 447 This scheme pleased all the rest, but never was pleas¬ ing to Hera, No, nor Poseidon, nor yet to the bright-eyed virgin, Athena. They held out as at first in hatred of Ilios sacred, Yea, and the Trojans and Priam, because of the folly of Paris Who, when the goddesses brought for his judgment the apple of Discord, Gave Aphrodite the prize who promised him Helen, his ruin. But, when the twelfth day dawned, Apollo bespake the immortals: — “Brutal are ye, ye gods, ye ingrates! Tell me, hath Hector Burned in your honor no haunches of oxen, and kids that were choicest? Grace ye have not, for all that, his lifeless body to rescue So that his wife and his mother and only child may behold it, Also Priam, his sire, and the Trojan folk, who would quickly Burn it with fire and with funeral rites that are fitting observance. Yet are ye pleased, ye gods, to abet accursed Achilles, Man of reprobate heart, relentless, who civilization 448 HOMER'S ILIAD Book XXIV Knoweth no more than a lion whose strength and ill-governed spirit Keepeth him raiding the sheepfolds of men in quest of his supper. So, now, Achilles all pity hath lost, nor shame hath he either. Many a man must part with a dearer friend than Patroklos, Even a brother or son; but, when from his heart he hath wept him, Quelleth his pain, for to man have the Fates given souls of endurance. Yet this fellow brave Hector, albeit of life he hath reft him, Bindeth his horses behind, and about the tomb of his comrade