22. Exode, Part B, Arrival of Odysseus
Much to the relief of the chorus, Odysseus appears, and intervenes, on behalf of Ajax.
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
Odysseus arrives, and through his persistant mediation and counsel, Agamemnon relents, and allows the burial of Ajax.
Lyrics
22. Exode Part B
Chorus
Your approach is timely, King Odysseus: their quarrel is unwanted, and need to be separated.
(Enter Odysseus).
Odysseus
I heard from afar Atreidae shouts over the corpse.
Agamemnon
Teucer and his insulting words has offended us.
Odysseus
Yes?... But I am ready to forgive to the person, if he answers abuse with abuse.
Agamemnon
I only scolded, while his shamelessness was in practise.
Odysseus
What has he done to offend you?
Agamemnon
He will not leave the corpse and persists in defiance towards me.
Odysseus
May I speak to you frankly, as a friend, and level with you?
Agamemnon
Yes, of course, speak -- I can only listen reasonably: Of all the Achaians you are first among friends.
Odysseus
Hear me. You must not heartlessly forbid Ajax burial, and must have the strength to not let truth be trampled down by hatred. He has nourished measureless hatred towards me, ever Since taking possession of the prize of Achilles was awarded me. But I will not pay back dishonor with dishonor.
I must admit that of all the Arcadians who campaigned against Troy, only to Achilles was he second. The laws of God you would offend. Do not allow the body of this warrior to be disgraced by hatred.
Agamemnon
You would side with him, against us?
Odysseus
Yes, honor bounds hatred at the grave.
Agamemnon
I should trample on him!
Odysseus
Do not let judgment be unjust.
Agamemnon
It is not easy for those in power to always be just.
Odysseus
But to follow the advice of a devoted friend?
Agamemnon
It is the duty of people to yield to the laws of power.
Odysseus
Heed or not heed friends -- power, it is yours.
Agamemnon
You remember who it is you honor?
Odysseus
He was my enemy, but a great soul.
Agamemnon
Honor the enemy in death?
Odysseus
The memory of his enmity, is dimmed by his valor.
Agamemnon
You talk like a crazy man.
Odysseus
Our Friends today are our enemies tomorrow.
Agamemnon
To act with such friendship -- this is your counsel?
Odysseus
It is... Avoid cruel heartedness.
Agamemnon
You will have me called a coward today.
Odysseus
No, a correct and righteous judgment for all of Illiad.
Agamemnon
So you order to permit burial?
Odysseus
I myself have come here to help.
Agamemnon
Everyone acts according to their will...
Odysseus
If one does not, who will?
Agamemnon
You, not I, will answer for this burial.
Odysseus
There will be nothing but its nobleness to answer for.
Agamemnon
I would have been ready to render you greater service. He remains my fierce enemy, here, and in the nether world, irreconcilable. But, act as you know, do as you will.
(Leaves.)
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