Page:Masterpieces of Greek Literature (1902).djvu/76



says that it is the function of the poet "to inbreed and cherish in a great people the seeds of virtue and public civility." On this ground, if on no other, Tyrtaeus deserves the title of poet. He was general of the Spartans during the Second Messenian war, in the seventh century before Christ, and by his patriotic verses aroused in his fellow citizens increased courage and spirit in battle, and a larger devotion to the State in peace. His songs were long sung about the Spartan camp fires.

How glorious fall the valiant, sword in hand,

In front of battle for their native land!

But oh! what ills await the wretch that yields,

A recreant outcast from his country's fields!

The mother whom he loves shall quit her home,

An aged father at his side shall roam;

His little ones shall weeping with him go,

And a young wife participate his woe;

While scorned and scowled upon by every face,

They pine for food, and beg from place to place.

Stain of his breed! dishonoring manhood's form,

All ills shall cleave to him: affliction's storm

Shall blind him wandering in the vale of years,

Till, lost to all but ignominious fears,