4. Prologue C, Athena, Odysseus, chorus.
Scene between Odysseus and Athena, men's dance, end of scene.
Opera in English, in two acts. Based on the original tragedy by Sophocles, and following the structural scenic form of the ancient Greek Drama.
Story behind the song
Dialogue between Athena and Odysseus, after Ajax returns to his tent.
After a dance of relief and thanks, taking the lessons of man's mortality to heart, Odysseus and his sailors, (or, if you prefer, his marines!), bids Athena adieu. Athena, as well, is given exit music.
Lyrics
4. Prologue C
Athena
See, Odysseus, how strong the authority of the Gods are. Who among men was more wise in advice, who at the moment of need was more resolute in action?
Odysseus
There was no one...He is truly unfortunate, overtaken by a heavy and dark fate.
Athena
He is truly unfortunate, overtaken by dark, dark fate.
Odysseus
His destiny...is mine, - is it not shared by every one? I think: all of us who live are merely phantoms, and empty shadows!
Athena
Now know...
(Chorus dance).
Restrain yourself with modesty, and never offend the immortals with proud words. Do not flatter yourself with conceit if you surpass others by force, or with wealth, for the gods can make the lives of any mortal fall and rise in a single day.
(All Exeunt)
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