Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/182

152 152 SOPHOCLES

That roam the fields, or tread the mountain's height ;

And brings the binding yoke Upon the neck of horse with shaggy mane, 385

Or bull on mountain crest,

Untamable in strength.

Strophe II.

And speech, and thought as swift as wind. And tempered mood for higher life of states.

These he has learnt, and how to flee 390

Or the clear cold of frost unkind,

Or darts of storm and shower, Man all-providing. Unprovided, he Meeteth no chance the coming days may bring ;

Only from Hades, still 395

He fails to find escape, Though skill of art may teach him how to flee From depths of fell disease incurable.

Antistrophe II.

So, gifted with a wondrous might. Above all fancy's dreams, with skill to plan, 400

Now unto evil, now to good.

He turns. ΛYhile holding fast the laws.

His country's sacred rights. That rest upon the oath of Gods on high. High in the State : an outlaw from the State, 405

When loving, in his pride.

The thing that is not good ; Ne'er may he share my hearth, nor yet my thoughts. Who worketh deeds of evil like to this.

Enter Guards bringing in Antigone. As to this portent which the Gods have sent, 410