byEuripidestranslatedbyRobertPotter
CHARACTERSINTHEPLAY
IPHIGENIA，daughterofAgamemnonORESTES，brotherofIPHIGENIA
PYLADES，friendOfORESTES
THOAS，KingoftheTauriansHERDSMAN
MESSENGER
MINERVA
CHORUSOFGREEKWOMEN，captives，attendantsonIPHIGENIAinthetempleIPHIGENIAINTAURIS
（SCENE：—BeforethegreattempleofDianaoftheTaurians。Ablood—
stainedaltarisprominentlyinview。IPHIGENIA，cladasapriestess，entersfromthetemple。）
IPHIGENIA
ToPisa，bythefleetestcoursersborne，ComesPelops，sonofTantalus，andwedsThevirgindaughterofOenomaus：
FromhersprungAtreus；Menelausfromhim，AndAgamemnon；IfromhimderiveMybirth，hisIphigenia，byhisqueen，DaughterofTyndarus。WherefrequentwindsSwellthevex’dEuripuswitheddyingblasts，Androllthedarkeningwaves，myfatherslewme，AvictimtoDiana，sohethought，ForHelen’ssake，itsbaywhereAuliswinds，Tofamewellknown；fortherehisthousandships，ThearmamentofGreece，theimperialchiefConvened，desirousthathisGreeksshouldsnatchThegloriouscrownofvictoryfromTroy，AndpunishthebaseinsulttothebedOfHelen，vengeancegratefultothesoulOfMenelaus。But’gainsthisshipstheseaLongbarr’d，andnotonefavouringbreezetoswellHisflaggingsails，thehallow’dflamesthechiefConsults，andCalchasthusdisclosedthefates：—
\"ImperialleaderoftheGrecianhost，Henceshaltthounotunmoorthyvessels，ereDianaasavictimshallreceiveThydaughterIphigenia：whattheyearMostbeauteousshouldproduce，thoutothequeenDispensinglightdidstvowtosacrifice：
AdaughterClytemnestrainthyhouseThenbore（thepeerlessgraceofbeautythusTomeassigning）；hermustthoudevoteThevictim。\"ThenUlyssesbyhisarts，Me，toAchillesasdesign’dabride，Wonfrommymother。MyunhappyfateToAulisbroughtme；onthealtarthereHighwasIplaced，ando’ermegleam’dthesword，Aimingthefatalwound：butfromthestrokeDianasnatch’dme，inexchangeahindGivingtheGrecians；throughthelucidairMesheconveyedtoTauris，heretodwell，Whereo’erbarbariansabarbarickingHoldshisrudesway，namedThoas，whoseswiftfootEqualstherapidwing：meheappointsThepriestessofthistemple，wheresuchritesArepleasingtoDiana，thatthenameAloneclaimshonour；forIsacrifice（Such，ereIcame，thecustomofthestate）
WhateverGreciantothissavageshoreIsdriven：thepreviousritesaremine；thedeedOfblood，toohorridtobetold，devolvesOnothersinthetemple：buttherest，Inreverencetothegoddess，Iforbear。
ButthestrangevisionswhichthenightnowpastBroughtwithit，totheair，ifthatmaysootheMytroubledthought，Iwillrelate。Iseem’d，AsIlaysleeping，fromthislandremoved，TodwellatArgos，restingonmycouchMidtheapartmentsofthevirgintrain。
Suddenthefirmearthshook：Ifled，andstoodWithout；thebattlementsIsaw，andallTherockingrooffallfromitsloftyheightInruinstotheground：ofallthehouse，Myfather’shouse，onepillar，asIthought，Alonewasleft，whichfromitscornicewavedAlengthofauburnlocks，andhumanvoiceAssumed：thebloodyoffice，whichismineTostrangershere，respecting，Itodeath，Sprinklingthelustraldrops，devoteditWithmanytears。MydreamIthusexpound：—
Orestes，whomIhallow’dbymyrites，Isdead：forsonsarepillarsofthehouse；
They，whommylustrallaverssprinkle，die。
Icannottomyfriendsapplymydream，ForStrophius，whenIperish’d，hadnoson。
Now，tomybrother，absentthoughhebe，LibationswillIoffer：this，atleast，Withtheattendantsgivenmebytheking，VirginsofGreece，Ican：butwhatthecauseTheyyetattendmenotwithinthehouse，Thetempleofthegoddess，whereIdwell？
（Shegoesintothetemple。ORESTESandPYLADESentercautiously。）
ORESTES
Keepcarefulwatch，lestsomeonecomethisway。
PYLADES
Iwatch，andturnmineeyetoeverypart。
ORESTES
Anddostthou，Pylades，imaginethisThetempleofthegoddess，whichweseek，OursailsfromArgossweepingo’erthemain？
PYLADES
Orestes，suchmythought，andmustbethine。
ORESTES
AndthisthealtarwetwithGrecianblood？
PYLADES
Crimson’dwithgorebeholditssculpturedwreaths。
ORESTES
See，fromthebattlementswhattrophieshang！
PYLADES
Thespoilsofstrangersthathaveherebeenslain。
ORESTES
Behoovesusthentowatchwithcarefuleye。
OPhoebus，bythyoraclesagainWhyhastthouledmetothesetoils？E’ersince，Invengeanceformyfather’sblood，IslewMymother，ceaselessbytheFuriesdriven，Vagrant，anoutcast，manyabendingcourseMyfeethavetrod：totheeIcame，oftheInquiredthiswhirlingfrenzybywhatmeans，AndbywhatmeansmylaboursImightend。
ThyvoicecommandedmetospeedmycourseTothiswildcoastofTauris，whereashrineThysisterhath，Diana；thencetotakeThestatueofthegoddess，whichfromheaven（Sosaythenatives）tothistemplefell：
Thisimage，orbyfraudorfortunewon，Thedangeroustoilachieved，toplacetheprizeIntheAthenianland：nomorewassaid；
Butthat，performingthis，IshouldobtainRestfrommytoils。Obedienttothywords，Onthisunknown，inhospitablecoastAmIarrived。Now，Pylades（forthouArtmyassociateinthisdangeroustask），OftheeIask，Whatshallwedo？forhighThewalls，thouseest，whichfencethetempleround。
Shallweascendtheirheight？ButhowescapeObservingeyes？Orburstthebrazenbars？
Ofthesewenothingknow：intheattemptToforcethegates，ormeditatingmeansToenter，ifdetected，weshalldie。
Shallwethen，erewedie，byflightregainTheshipinwhichwehitherplough’dthesea？
PYLADES
Offlightwebrooknothought，norsuchhathbeenOurwont；normaythegod’scommandingvoiceBedisobey’d；butfromthetemplenowRetiring，insomecave，whichtheblackseaBeatswithitsbillows，wemaylieconceal’dAtdistancefromourbark，lestsome，whoseeyesMaynoteit，bearthetidingstotheking，Andwebeseizedbyforce。ButwhentheeyeOfnightcomesdarklingon，thenmustwedare，Andtakethepolish’dimagefromtheshrine，Attemptingallthings：andthevacantspaceBetweenthetriglyphs（markitwell）enoughIsopentoadmitus；bythatwayAttemptwetodescend：intoilsthebraveAredaring；ofnoworththeabjectsoul。
ORESTES
Thislengthofseaweplough’dnot，fromthiscoast，Nothingeffected，toreturn：butwellHastthouadvised；thegodmustbeobey’d。
Retirewethenwherewemaylieconceal’d；
Forneverfromthegodwillcomethecause，ThatwhathissacredvoicecommandsshouldfallEffectless。Wemustdare。NotoiltoyouthExcuse，whichjustifiesinaction，brings。
（Theygoout。IPHIGENIAandtheCHORUSenterfromthetemple。）
IPHIGENIA（singing）
You，whoyoursavagedwellingsholdNighthisinhospitablemain，’Gainstclashingrockswithfuryroll’d，Fromallbuthallow’dwordsabstain。
Virginqueen，Latona’sgrace，joyinginthemountainchase，Tothycourt，thyrichdomain，Tothybeauteous—pillar’dfaneWhereourwonderingeyesbeholdBattlementsthatblazewithgold，ThusmyvirginstepsIbend，Holy，theholytoattend；
Servant，virginqueen，tothee；
Power，whobear’stlife’sgoldenkey，FarfromGreeceforsteedsrenown’d，Fromherwallswithtowerscrown’d，Fromthebeauteous—plantedmeadsWherehistrainEurotasleads，Visitingthelovedretreats，Oncemyfather’sroyalseats。
CHORUS（singing）
Icome。Whatcaresdisturbthyrest？
Whyhastthoubroughtmetotheshrine？
Dothsomefreshgriefafflictthybreast？
Whybringmetothisseatdivine？
Thoudaughterofthatchief，whosepowersPlough’dwithathousandkeelsthestrandAndrangedinarmsshookTroy’sproudtowersBeneaththeAtreidae’sgreatcommand！
IPHIGENIA（singing）
Oyeattendanttrain，Howismyheartoppress’dwithwo！
Whatnotes，savenotesofgrief，canflow，Aharshandunmelodiousstrain？
Mysouldomesticillsoppresswithdread，Andbidmemournabrotherdead。
WhatvisionsdidmysleepingsenseappallInthepastdarkandmidnighthour！
’Tisruin，ruinall。
Myfather’shouses—itisnomore：
Nomoreishisillustriousline。
WhatdreadfuldeedshathArgosknown！
Oneonlybrother，Fate，wasmine；
Anddostthourendhimfromme？IshegoneToPluto’sdrearyrealmsbelow？
Forhim，asdead，withpiouscareThisgobletIprepare；
AndonthebosomoftheearthshallflowStreamsfromtheheifermountain—bred，Thegrape’srichjuice，and，mix’dwiththese，Thelabouroftheyellowbees，Libationssoothingtothedead。
Givemetheoblation：letmeholdThefoaminggoblet’shallow’dgold。
Othou，theearthbeneath，WhodidstfromAgamemnonspring；
Tothee，deprivedofvitalbreath，Itheselibationsbring。
Acceptthem：tothyhonour’dtomb，Never，ah！nevershallIcome；
Neverthesegoldentressesbear，Toplacethemthere，thereshedthetear；
Forfrommycountryfar，ahindTheredeem’dasslain，mywildabodeIfind。
CHORUS（singing）
TotheethyfaithfultrainTheAsiatichymnwillraise，Adoleful，abarbaricstrain，Responsivetothylays，Andsteepintearsthemournfulsong，—
Notes，whichtothedeadbelong；
Dismalnotes，attunedtowoeByPlutointherealmsbelow：
NosprightlyairshallweemployTocheerthesoul，andwakethesenseofjoy。
IPHIGENIA（singing）
TheAtreidaearenomore；
Extincttheirsceptre’sgoldenlight；
Myfather’shousefromitsproudheightIsfallen：itsruinsIdeplore。
WhoofherkingsatArgosholdshisreign，Herkingsoncebless’d？ButSorrow’strainRollsonimpetuousfortherapidsteedsWhicho’erthestrandwithPelopsfly。
FromwhatatrociousdeedsStartsthesunback，hissacredeyeOfbrightness，loathing，turn’daside？
Andfataltotheirhousearose，Fromtherichram，Thessalia’sgoldenpride，Slaughteronslaughter，woesonwoes：
Thence，fromthedeadagespast，Vengeancecamerushingonitsprey，AndswepttheraceofTantalusaway。
Fataltotheeitsruthlesshaste；
Tometoofatal，fromthehourMymotherwedded，fromthenightShegavemetolife’sopeninglight，Nursedbyaffliction’scruelpower。
Earlytome，theFatesunkind，Toknowwhatsorrowisassign’d：
MeLeda’sdaughter，haplessdame，Firstbloomingoffspringofherbed（Afather’sconducthereIblame），Ajoylessvictimbred；
Wheno’erthestrandofAulis，intheprideOfbeautykindlingflamesoflove，HighonmysplendidcarImove，BetrothedtoThetis’sonabride：
Ah，haplessbride，toallthetrainOfGrecianfairpreferr’dinvain！
Butnow，astrangeronthisstrand，’Gainstwhichthewildwavesbeat，Iholdmydreary，joylessseat，Fardistantfrommynativeland，Nornuptialbedismine，norchild，norfriend。
AtArgosnownomoreIraiseThefestalsonginJuno’spraise；
Noro’ertheloomsweet—soundingbend，Asthecreativeshuttleflies；
GiveformsofTitansfiercetorise；
And，dreadfulwithherpurplespear，ImageAthenianPallasthere：
ButonthisbarbarousshoreTheunhappystranger’sfateImoan，Theruthlessaltarstain’dwithgore，Hisdeepanddyinggroan；
And，foreachtearthatweepshiswoes，Frommeatearofpityflows。
Ofthesethesadremembrancenowmustsleep：
Abrotherdead，ahme！Iweep：
AtArgoshim，byfateoppress’d，Ileftaninfantatthebreast，Abeauteousbud，whoseopeningcharmsThenblossom’dinhismother’sarms；
Orestes，borntohighcommand，TheimperialsceptreoftheArgiveland。
LEADEROFTHECHORUS
Leavingthesea—wash’dshoreaherdsmancomesSpeeding，withsomefreshtidingstotheefraught。
（AHERDSMANenters。）
HERDSMAN
DaughterofAgamemnon，andbrightgemOfClytemnestra，hearstrangethingsfromme。
IPHIGENIA
Andwhatofterrordoththytaleimport？
HERDSMAN
Twoyouths，swift—rowing’twixttheclashingrocksOfourwildsea，arelandedonthebeach，AgratefulofferingatDiana’sshrine，Andvictimstothegoddess。Haste，prepareThesacredlavers，andthepreviousrites。
IPHIGENIA
Whencearethestrangers？fromwhatcountrynamed？
HERDSMAN
FromGreece：thisonly，nothingmore，Iknow。
IPHIGENIA
Didstthounothearwhatnamesthestrangersbear？
HERDSMAN
Onebytheotherwascall’dPylades。
IPHIGENIA
Howisthestranger，hiscompanion，named？
HERDSMAN
Thisnoneofuscantell：wehearditnot。
IPHIGENIA
Howsawyouthem？howseizedthem？bywhatchance？
HERDSMAN
Midtherudecliffsthato’ertheEuxinehang—
IPHIGENIA
Andwhatconcernhaveherdsmenwiththesea？
HERDSMAN
Towashourherdsinthesaltwavewecame。
IPHIGENIA
TowhatIask’dreturn：howseizedyouthem？
Tellmethemanner；thisIwishtoknow：
Forslowthevictimscome，norhathsomewhileThealtarofthegoddess，aswaswont，Beencrimson’dwiththestreamsofGrecianblood。
HERDSMAN
Ourherds，whichintheforestfeed，wedroveAmidthetidethatrushestotheshore，’TwixttheSymplegades：itwastheplace，WhereintheriftedrockthechafingsurgeHathhallow’darudecave，thehauntofthoseWhosequestispurple。OfournumberthereAherdsmansawtwoyouths，andbackreturn’dWithsoftandsilentstep；thenpointing，said，\"Doyounotseethem？ThesearedeitiesThatsitthere。\"One，whowithreligiousaweReveredthegods，withhandsupliftedpray’d，Hiseyesfix’donthem，—\"Sonofthesea—nymphLeucothoe，guardianofthelabouringbark，OurlordPalaemon，bepropitioustous！
Orsityouonourshores，brightsonsofJove，CastorandPollux？OrthegloriousboastOfNereus，fatherofthenoblechoirOffiftyNereids？\"One，whoseuntaughtmindAudaciousfollyharden’d’gainstthesenseOfholyawe，scoff’dathisprayers，andsaid，—
\"Thesearewreck’dmariners，thattaketheirseatInthecleftrockthroughfear，astheyhaveheardOurprescribedrite，thatherewesacrificeThestranger。\"Tothegreaterpartheseem’dWelltohavespoken，andwejudgeditmeetToseizethevictims，byourcountry’slawDuetothegoddess。Ofthestrangeryouths，Oneatthisinstantstartedfromtherock：
Awhilehestood，andwildlytoss’dhishead，Andgroan’d，hisloosearmstremblingalltheirlength，Convulsedwithmadness；andahunterloudThencried，—\"Dostthoubeholdher，Pylades？
DostthounotseethisdragonfiercefromhellRushingtokillme，andagainstmerousingHerhorridvipers？Seethisotherhere，Emittingfireandslaughterfromhervests，Sailsonherwings，mymotherinherarmsBearing，tohurlthismassofrockuponme！
Ah，shewillkillme！WhithershallIfly？\"
Hisvisagemightweseenomorethesame，Andhisvoicevaried；nowtheroarofbulls，Thehowlofdogsnowuttering，mimicsoundsSentbythemaddeningFuries，astheysay。
Togetherthronging，asofdeathassured，Wesitinsilence；buthedrewhissword，And，likealionrushingmidourherds，Plungedintheirsidestheweapon，weeningthusTodrivetheFuries，tillthebrinywaveFoam’dwiththeirblood。ButwhenamongourherdsWesawthishavocmade，weall’ganrouseToarms，andblewoursoundingshellstoalarmTheneighbouringpeasants；forwethoughtinfightRudeherdsmentotheseyouthfulstrangers，train’dToarms，illmatch’d；andforthwithtoouraidFlock’dnumbers。But，hisfrenzyofitsforceAbating，ontheearththestrangerfalls，Foamburstingfromhismouth：butwhenhesawTheadvantage，eachadventuredonandhurl’dWhatmightannoyhimfallen：theotheryouthWipedoffthefoam，tookofhispersoncare，Hisfine—wroughtrobespreadoverhim；withheedTheflyingstonesobserving，wardedofThewounds，andeachkindofficetohisfriendAttentivelyperform’d。Hissensereturn’d；
Thestrangerstartedup，andsoonperceivedThetideoffoesthatroll’dimpetuouson，Thedangeranddistressthatclosedthemround。
Heheavedasigh；anunremittingstormOfstoneswepour’d，andeachincitedeach：
Thenwehisdreadfulexhortationheard：—
\"Pylades，weshalldie；butletusdieWithglory：drawthysword，andfollowme。\"
ButwhenwesawtheenemiesadvanceWithbrandish’dswords，thesteepheightscrown’dwithwoodWefellinflight：butothers，ifoneflies，Pressonthem；ifagaintheydrivetheseback，Whatbeforefledturns，withastormofstonesAssaultingthem；but，whatexceedsbelief，Hurl’dbyathousandhands，notonecouldhitThevictimsofthegoddess：scarceatlength，Notbybravedaringseizedwethem，butroundWecloseduponthem，andtheirswordswithstonesBeat，wily，fromtheirhands；forontheirkneesTheythroughfatiguehadsunkupontheground：
Webarethemtothemonarchofthisland：
Heview’dthem，andwithoutdelaytotheSentthemdevotedtothecleansingvase，Andtothealtar。Victimssuchasthese，Ovirgin，wishtofind；forifsuchyouthsThouoffer，forthyslaughterGreecewillpay，HerwrongstotheeatAuliswellavenged。
LEADER
Thesethingsarewonderful，whichthouhasttoldOfhim，whoe’erhebe，theyouthfromGreeceArrivedonthisinhospitableshore。
IPHIGENIA
’Tiswell：gothou，andbringthestrangershither：
Whathereistobedoneshallbeourcare。
（TheHERDSMANdeparts。）
Omyunhappyheart！beforethishourTostrangersthouwastgentle，alwaystouch’dWithpity，andwithtearstheirtearsrepaid，WhenGrecians，nativesofmycountry，cameIntomyhands：butfromthedreams，whichpromptTodeedsungentle，showingthatnomoreOrestesviewsthesun’sfairlight，whoe’erYearethathithercome，mewillyoufindRelentlessnow。Thisisthetruth，myfriends：
Myheartisrent；andneverwillthewretch，Whofeelsaffliction’scrueltortures，bearGood—willtothosethataremorefortunate。
NevercamegalefromJove，norflyingbark，Which’twixtthedangerousrocksoftheEuxineseaBroughtHelenhither，whomyruinwrought，NorMenelaus；thatonthemmyfoulwrongsImightrepay，andwithanAulishereRequitetheAulisthere，whereIwasseized，And，asaheifer，bytheGreciansslain：
Myfathertoo，whogavemebirth，waspriest。
Ahme！thesadremembranceofthoseillsYetlives：howoftendidIstrokethycheek，And，hangingonthyknees，addresstheethus：—
\"Alas，myfather！IbytheeamledAbridetobridalritesunbless’dandbase：
Them，whilebytheeIbleed，mymotherhymns，AndtheArgivedames，withhymenealstrains，Andwiththejocundpipethehouseresounds：
ButatthealtarIbytheeamslain；
ForPlutowastheAchilles，notthesonOfPeleus，whomtomethoudidstannounceTheaffiancedbridegroom，andbyguiledidstbringTobloodynuptialsintherollingcar。\"
But，o’ermineeyestheveil’sfinetexturespread，Thisbrotherinmyhandswhonowislost，Iclasp’dnot，thoughhissister；didnotpressMylipstohis，throughvirginmodesty，AsgoingtothehouseofPeleus：thenEachfondembraceItoanothertimeDeferr’d，assoontoArgostoreturn。
If，Ounhappybrother，thouartdead，Fromwhatastate，thyfather’senviedheightOfglory，lovedOrestes，artthoutorn！—
ThesefalserulesofthegoddessmuchIblame：
Whoe’erofmortalsiswithslaughterstain’d，Orhathatchildbirthgivenassistinghands，Orchancedtotouchaughtdead，sheasimpureDrivesfromheraltars；yetherselfdelightsInhumanvictimsbleedingathershrine。
Ne’erdidLatonafromtheembraceofJoveBringforthsuchinconsistence：IthendeemThefeastofTantalus，wheregodswereguests，Unworthyofbelief，asthattheyfedOnhisson’sfleshdelighted；andIthinkThesepeople，whothemselveshaveawildjoyInsheddinghumanblood，theirsavageguiltChargeonthegoddess：forthistruthIhold；
Noneofthegodsisevil，ordothwrong。
（Sheentersthetemple。）
CHORUS（singing）
strophe1
Yerocks，yedashingrocks，whosebrowFrownso’erthedarken’ddeepsbelow；
Whosewild，inhospitablewave，FromArgosflyingandhernativespring，Thevirginoncewasknowntobrave，Tormentedwiththebrize’smaddeningsting，FromEuropewhentherudeseao’erShepass’dtoAsia’sadverseshore；
Whoarethesehaplessyouths，thatdaretoland，Leavingthosesoft，irriguousmeads，Where，hisgreenmarginfringedwithreeds，Eurotasrollshisampletide，OrDirce’shallow’dwatersglide，Andtouchthisbarbarous，stranger—hatingstrand，Thealtarswhereavirgindews，Andbloodthepillar’dshrineimbrues？
antistrophe1
Didtheywithoarsimpetuoussweep（Rankansweringrank）thefoamydeep，Andwingtheirbarkwithflyingsails，Toraisetheirhumblefortunetheirdesire；
Eagertocatchtherisinggales，Theirbosomswiththeloveofgainonfire？
Forsweetishopetoman’sfondbreast；
Thehopeofgain，insatiateguest，ThoughonheroftattendsMisfortune’strain；
FordaringmanshetemptstobraveThedangersoftheboisterouswave，AndleadshimheedlessofhisfateThroughmanyadistantbarbarousstate。
Vainhisopinions，hispursuitsarevain！
Boundlesso’ersomeherpowerisshown，Butsomehertemperateinfluenceown。
strophe2
HowdidtheypassthedangerousrocksClashingwithrude，tremendousshocks？
Howpassthesavage—howlingshore，WhereoncetheunhappyPhineusheldhisreign，Andsleepaffrightedfliesitsroar，Steeringtheirroughcourseo’erthisboisterousmain，Form’dinaring，beneathwhosewavesTheNereidtraininhigharch’dcavesWeavethelightdance，andraisethesprightlysong，While，whisperingintheirswellingsails，SoftZephyrsbreathe，orsoutherngalesPipingamidtheirtacklingplay，AstheirbarkploughsitswaterywayThosehoarycliffs，thehauntsofbirds，along，Tothatwildstrand，therapidraceWhereonceAchillesdeign’dtograce？
antistrophe2
OthatfromTroysomechancewouldbearLeda’sloveddaughter，fatalfair（Theroyalvirgin’svowsaremine）
Thatherbrighttressesroll’dincrimsondew，HerwarmbloodflowingatthisshrineThealtarofthegoddessmightimbrue；
AndVengeance，righteoustorepayHerformermischiefs，seizeherprey！
ButwithwhatraptureshouldIhearhisvoice，IfonethisshoreshouldreachfromGreece，Andbidthetoilsofslaverycease！
OrmightIinthehourofrestWithpleasingdreamsofGreecebebless’d；
Soinmyhouse，mynativelandrejoice；
InsleepenjoythepleasingstrainForhappinessrestoredagain（IPHIGENIAentersfromthetemple。）
IPHIGENIA
Butthetwoyouths，theirhandsfastboundinchains，Thelate—seizedvictimstothegoddess，come。
Silence，myfriends；for，destinedattheshrineTobleed，theGrecianstrangersnearapproach；
Andnofalsetidingsdidtheherdsmanbring。
LEADEROFTHECHORUS
Goddessrevered，ifgratefultothysoulThisstatepresentssuchsacrifice，acceptThevictims，whichthecustomofthislandGivesthee，butdeem’dunholybytheGreeks。
（GuardsleadinORESTESandPYLADES，bound。）
IPHIGENIA
Nomore；thattothegoddesseachdueriteBewellperform’dshallbemycare。UnchainThestrangers’hands；that，hallow’dastheyare，Theymaynomorebebound。
（TheguardsreleaseORESTESandPYLADES。）
Goyou，prepareWithinthetemplewhattheritesrequire。
Unhappyyouths，whatmotherbroughtyouforth，Yourfatherwho？Yoursister，ifperchanceYehaveasister，ofwhatyouthsdeprived？
Forbrothersheshallhavenomore。WhoknowsWhomsuchmisfortunesmayattend？FordarkWhatthegodswillcreepson；andnonecantellTheillstocome：thisfortunefromthesightObscures。But，Ounhappystrangers，say，Whencecameyou？Sail’dyoulongsinceforthisland？
Butlongwillbeyourabsencefromyourhomes，Forever，inthedrearyrealmsbelow。
ORESTES
Lady，whoe’erthouart，whyforthesethingsDostthoulament？whymournforills，whichsoonWillfallonus？HimIesteemunwise，Who，whenheseesdeathnear，triestoo’ercomeItsterrorswithbewailings，withouthopeOfsafety：illheaddstoill，andmakesHisfollyknown，yetdies。WemustgivewayTofortune；thereforemournnotthouforus：
Weknow，weareacquaintedwithyourrites。
IPHIGENIA
WhichofyoubythenameofPyladesIscall’d？Thisfirstitismywishtoknow。
ORESTES
Ifaughtofpleasurethatmaygivethee，he。
IPHIGENIA
AnativeofwhatGrecianstate，declare。
ORESTES
Whatprofitknowingthiswouldstthouobtain？
IPHIGENIA
Andareyoubrothers，ofonemotherborn？
ORESTES
Brothersbyfriendship，lady，notbybirth。
IPHIGENIA
Totheewhatnamewasbythyfathergiven？
ORESTES
WithjustcauseIUnhappymightbecall’d。
IPHIGENIA
Iasknotthat；tofortunethatascribe。
ORESTES
Dyingunknown，rudescoffsIshallavoid。
IPHIGENIA
Wiltthourefuse？Whyarethythoughtssohigh？
ORESTES
Mybodythoumaystkill，butnotmyname。
IPHIGENIA
Wiltthounotsayanativeofwhatstate？
ORESTES
Thequestionnaughtavails，sinceImustdie。
IPHIGENIA
Whathinderstheefromgrantingmethisgrace？
ORESTES
TheillustriousArgosImycountryboast。
IPHIGENIA
Bythegods，stranger，isthybirthfromthence？
ORESTES
MybirthisfromMycenae，oncethebless’d。
IPHIGENIA
Dostthouanexilefly，orbywhatfate？
ORESTES
Ofmyfreewill，inpartnotfree，Ifly。
IPHIGENIA
WiltthouthentellmewhatIwishtoknow？
ORESTES
Whate’erisforeigntomyprivategriefs。
IPHIGENIA
TomydearwishfromArgosartthoucome。
ORESTES
Nottomywish；butiftothine，enjoyit。
IPHIGENIA
Troy，whosefamespreadssowide，perchancethouknow’st。
ORESTES
OthatIne’erhadknownher，ev’nindreams！
IPHIGENIA
Theysaysheisnomore，bywardestroy’d。
ORESTES
Itisso：youhaveheardnofalsereports。
IPHIGENIA
IsHelenawithMenelausreturn’d？
ORESTES
Sheis；andoneIlovehercomingrues。
IPHIGENIA
Whereisshe？Metoosheofoldhathwrong’d。
ORESTES
AtSpartawithherformerlordshedwells。
IPHIGENIA
ByGreece，andnotbymealoneabhorr’d！
ORESTES
Ifromhernuptialshavemyshareofgrief。
IPHIGENIA
AndaretheGreeks，asFamereports，return’d？
ORESTES
Howbrieflyallthingsdostthouaskatonce！
IPHIGENIA
Thisfavour，erethoudie，Iwishtoobtain。
ORESTES
Ask，then：sincesuchthywish，Iwillinformthee。
IPHIGENIA
Calchas，aprophet，—camehebackfromTroy？
ORESTES
Heperish’datMycenaesuchthefame。
IPHIGENIA
Goddessrevered！ButdothUlysseslive？
ORESTES
Helives，theysay，butisnotyetreturn’d。
IPHIGENIA
Perishthewretch，norseehiscountrymore！
ORESTES
Wishhimnotill，forallwithhimisill。
IPHIGENIA
Butdoththesonofsea—bornThetislive？
ORESTES
Helivesnot：vainhisnuptialritesatAulis。
IPHIGENIA
Thatallwasfraud，asthosewhofeltitsay。
ORESTES
Butwhoartthou，inquiringthusofGreece？
IPHIGENIA
Iamfromthence，inearlyyouthundone。
ORESTES
Thouhastarighttoinquirewhattherehathpass’d。
IPHIGENIA
Whatknow’stthouofthechief，mencallthebless’d？
ORESTES
Who？Ofthebless’dwasnotthechiefIknew。
IPHIGENIA
TheroyalAgamemnon，sonofAtreus。
ORESTES
OfhimIknownot，lady；ceasetoask。
IPHIGENIA
Nay，bythegods，tellme，andcheermysoul。
ORESTES
He’sdead，theunhappychief：nosingleill。
IPHIGENIA
Dead！Bywhatadversefate？Owretchedme！
ORESTES
Whymournforthis？Howdothittouchthybreast？
IPHIGENIA
ThegloriesofhisformerstateImourn。
ORESTES
Dreadfullymurderedbyawoman’shand。
IPHIGENIA
Howwretchedshethatslewhim，hethusslain！
ORESTES
Nowthenforbear：ofhiminquirenomore。
IPHIGENIA
Thisonly：livestheunhappymonarch’swife？
ORESTES
She，lady，isnomore，slainbyherson。
IPHIGENIA
Alas，theruin’dhouse！Whathisintent？
ORESTES
Toavengeonherhisnoblefatherslain。
IPHIGENIA
Anill，butrighteousdeed，howjustlydone！
ORESTES
Thoughrighteous，bythegodsbeisnotbless’d。
IPHIGENIA
HathAgamemnonotheroffspringleft？
ORESTES
Heleftonevirgindaughter，namedElectra。
IPHIGENIA
Ofherthatdiedavictimisaughtsaid？
ORESTES
Thisonly，dead，sheseesthelightnomore。
IPHIGENIA
Unhappyshe！thefathertoowhoslewher！
ORESTES
Forabadwomansheunseemlydied。
IPHIGENIA
AtArgoslivesthemurderedfather’sson？
ORESTES
Nowherehelives，poorwretch！andeverywhere。
IPHIGENIA
Falsedreams，farewell；fornothingyouimport。
ORESTES
Norarethosegods，thathavethenameofwise，Lessfalsethanfleetingdreams。Inthingsdivine，Andinthingshuman，greatconfusionreigns。
Onethingisleft；that，notunwiseofsoul，Obedienttotheprophet’svoiceheperish’d；
Forthatheperish’d，theywhoknowreport。
LEADER
Whatshallweknow，whatofourparentsknow？
Ifyettheyliveornot，whocaninformus？
IPHIGENIA
Hearme：thisconversepromptsathought，whichgivesPromiseofgood，yeyouthsofGreece，toyou，Tothese，andme：thusmayitwellbedone，If，willingtomypurpose，allassent。
Wiltthou，ifIshallsavethee，goformeAmessengertoArgos，tomyfriendsChargedwithaletter，whichacaptivewrote，Whopitiedme，normurderousthoughtmyhand，Butthathediedbeneaththelaw，theseritesThegoddessdeemingjust？forfromthathourIhavenotfoundwhomighttoArgosbearHimselfmymessage，backwithlifereturn’d，Orsendtoanyofmyfriendsmyletter。
Thou，therefore，sinceitseemsthoudostnotbearIll—willtome，anddostMycenaeknow，AndthoseIwishtoaddress，besafe，andlive，Nobaserewardforalightletter，lifeReceiving；andlethim，sincethusthestateRequires，withouttheetothegoddessbleed。
ORESTES
Virginunknown，wellhastthousaidinallSavethis，thattothegoddessheshouldbleedAvictim；thatwereheavygriefindeed。
Isteer’dthevesseltotheseills；hesail’dAttendantonmytoils：togainthygraceByhisdestruction，andwithdrawmyselfFromsufferings，wereunjust：thusletitbe：
Givehimtheletter；tofulfilthywish，ToArgoshewillbearit：melethimWhoclaimsthatoffice，slay：baseishissoul，Whoincalamitiesinvolveshisfriends，Andsaveshimself；thisisafriend，whoselife，Deartomeasmyown，Iwouldpreserve。
IPHIGENIA
Excellentspirit！fromsomenoblerootItshowstheesprung，andtothyfriendsafriendSincere；ofthosethatsharemybloodifoneRemains，suchmayhebe！forIamnotWithoutabrother，strangers，frommysightThoughdistantnow。Sincethenthywishissuch，HimwillIsendtoArgos；heshallbearMyletter；thoushaltdie；forthisdesireHathstrongpossessionofthynoblesoul。
ORESTES
Whothenshalldothedreadfuldeed，andslayme？
IPHIGENIA
I：toatonethegoddessismycharge。
ORESTES
Achargeunenvied，virgin，andunbless’d。
IPHIGENIA
Necessityconstrains：Imustobey。
ORESTES
Wiltthou，awoman，plungetheswordinmen？
IPHIGENIA
No：butthylockstosprinkleroundismine。
ORESTES
Whosethen，ifImayask，thebloodydeed？
IPHIGENIA
Tosomewithinthetemplethisbelongs。
ORESTES
Whattombisdestinedtoreceivemycorse？
IPHIGENIA
Thehallow’dfirewithin，andadarkcave。
ORESTES
O，thatasister’shandmightwraptheselimbs！
IPHIGENIA
Vainwish，unhappyyouth，whoe’erthouart，Hastthouconceived；forfromthisbarbarouslandFarisherdwelling。Yet，ofwhatmypowerPermits（sincethoufromArgosdraw’stthybirth），NogracewillIomit：forinthetombIwillplacemuchofornament，andpourThedulcetlabouroftheyellowbee，Frommountainflowersextracted，onthypyre。
ButIwillgo，andfromthetemplebringTheletter；yet’gainstmenohostilethoughtConceive。You，thatattendhere，guardthemwell，Butwithoutchains。Toone，whommostIloveOfallmyfriends，toArgosIshallsendTidingsperchanceunlook’dfor；andthisletter，Declaringthosewhomhethoughtdeadalive，Shallbearhimanassuredandsolidjoy。
（Sheentersthetemple。）
CHORUS（chanting）
Thee，o’erwhoselimbsthebloodydropsshallsoonBefromthelaverssprinkled，Ilament。
ORESTES
Thisasksnopity，strangers：butfarewell。
CHORUS（chanting）
Theeforthyhappyfatewereverence，youthWhotothycountryshallagainreturn。
PYLADES
Tofriendsunwish’d，wholeavetheirfriendstodie。
CHORUS（chanting）
Painfuldismission！WhichshallIesteemMostlost，alas，alas！whichmostundone？
Fordoubtsmywaveringjudgmentyetdivide，Ifchieffortheemysighsshouldswell，orthee。
ORESTES
Bythegods，Pylades，isthymindtouch’dInmannerlikeasmine？
PYLADES
Icannottell；
NortothyquestionhaveItoreply。
ORESTES
Whoisthisvirgin？WithwhatzealforGreeceMadesheinquiriesofuswhatthetoilsAtTroy，ifyettheGrecianswerereturn’d，AndCalchas，fromtheflightofbirdswhoform’dPresagesofthefuture。AndshenamedAchilles：withwhattendernessbewail’dTheunhappyAgamemnon！OfhiswifeSheask’dme，—ofhischildren：thenceherraceThisunknownvirgindraws，anArgive；elseNe’erwouldshesendthisletter，norhavewish’dToknowthesethings，asifsheboreashare（IfArgosflourish）initsprosperousstate。
PYLADES
Suchweremythoughts（butthouhastgiventhemwords，Preventingme）ofeverycircumstance，Saveone：thefateofkingsallknow，whosestateHoldsaughtofrank。Butpasstootherthoughts。
ORESTES
What？Sharethem；sothoubestmaystbeinform’d。
PYLADES
Thatthoushouldstdie，andIbeholdthislight，Werebase：withtheeIsail’d，withtheetodieBecomesme；elseshallIobtainthenameOfavilecowardthroughtheArgivestate，AndthedeepvalesofPhocis。Mostwillthink（Formostthinkill）thatbybetrayingtheIsavedmyself，hometoreturnalone；
OrhaplythatIslewthee，andthydeathContrived，thatintheruinofthyhouseThyempireImightgrasp，tomedevolvedAsweddedtothysister，nowsoleheir。
ThesethingsIfear，andholdtheminfamous。
Behoovesmethenwiththeetodie，withtheTobleedavictim，onthepyrewiththineTogivemybodytotheflames；forthisBecomesmeasthyfriend。whodreadsreproach。
ORESTES
Speakmoreauspiciouswords：’tisminetobearIllsthataremine；andsinglewhenthewo，Iwouldnotbearitdouble。Whatthousay’stIsvileandinfamous，wouldlightonme，ShouldIcausetheetodie，whoinmytoilsHastborneashare：tome，whofromthegodsSufferafflictionswhichIsuffer，deathIsnotunwelcome：thouarthappy，thineAnunpollutedandaprosperoushouse；
Mineimpiousandunbless’d：ifthouartsaved，Andfrommysister（whomIgavetothee，Betroth’dthybride）artbless’dwithsons，mynameMayyetremain，norallmyfather’shouseIntotalruinsink。Gothen，andlive：
Dwellinthemansionofthyancestors：
AndwhenthoucomesttoGreece，toArgosfamedForwarrior—steeds，bythisrighthandIchargetheRaiseasepulchralmound，andonitplaceAmonumenttome；andtomytombHertears，hertressesletmysistergive；
Andsay，thatbyanArgivewoman’shandIperish’d，tothealtar’sbloodyritesAhallow’dvictim。NeverletthysoulBetraymysister，forthouseestherstate，Offriendshowdestitute，herfather’shouseHowdesolate。Farewell。Ofallmyfriends，TheehaveIfoundmostfriendly，frommyyouthTrain’dupwithme，inallmysylvansportsThoudearassociate，andthroughmanytoilsThoufaithfulpartnerofmymiseries。
MePhoebus，thoughaprophet，hathdeceived，And，meditatingguile，hathdrivenmefarFromGreece，offormeroraclesashamed；
Tohimresign’d，obedienttohiswords，Islewmymother，andmymeedisdeath。
PYLADES
Yes，Iwillraisethytomb：thysister’sbedIneverwillbetray，unhappyyouth，ForIwillholdtheedearerwhenthouartdead，Thanwhilethoulivest；norhathyetthevoiceOfPhoebusquitedestroy’dthee，thoughthoustandTosometimesmightybutsometimesmightywoesYieldmightychanges，sowhenFortunewills。
ORESTES
Forbear：thewordsofPhoebusnaughtavailme；
For，passingfromtheshrine，thevirgincomes。
（IPHIGENIAentersfromthetemple。Sheiscarryingaletter。）
IPHIGENIA（totheguards）
Goyouaway，andintheshrineprepareWhatthose，whoo’ertheritespreside，require。
（Theguardsgointothetemple。）
Here，strangers，istheletterfoldedclose：
WhatIwouldfurther，hear。ThemindofmanIndangers，andagain，fromfearrelieved，Ofsafetywhenassured，isnotthesame：
Ithereforefearlesthe，whoshouldconveyToArgosthisepistle，whenreturn’dSafetohisnativecountry，willneglectMyletter，asathingoflittleworth。
ORESTES
Whatwouldstthouthen？Whatisthyanxiousthought？
IPHIGENIA
This：lethimgiveanoaththathewillbearToArgosthisepistletothosefriends，Towhomitismyardentwishtosendit。
ORESTES
Andwiltthouinreturngivehimthyoath？
IPHIGENIA
ThatIwilldo，orwillnotdo，saywhat。
ORESTES
Tosendhimfromthisbarbarousshorealive。
IPHIGENIA
That’sjust：howshouldhebearmyletterelse？
ORESTES
Butwillthemonarchtothesethingsassent？
IPHIGENIA
Bymeinduced。HimIwillseeembark’d。
ORESTES
Swearthen；andthouproposetherighteousoath。
IPHIGENIA
This，lethimsay，hetomyfriendswillgive。
PYLADES
Well，tothyfriendsthisletterIwillgive。
IPHIGENIA
TheewillIsendsafethroughthedarkeningrocks。
PYLADES
Whatgoddostthouinvoketoattestthyoath？
IPHIGENIA
Diana，atwhoseshrinehighchargeIhold。
PYLADES
AndIheaven’spotentking，theawfulJove。
IPHIGENIA
Butifthouslightthyoath，anddomewrong？
PYLADES
NevermayIreturn。Butifthoufail，Andsavemenot？
IPHIGENIA
Thennever，whileIlive，MayIrevisitmylovedArgosmore！
PYLADES
Onething，notmention’d，thyattentionclaims。
IPHIGENIA
Ifhonourowesit，thiswilltouchusboth。
PYLADES
Letmeinthisbepardon’d，ifthebarkBelost，andwithitinthesurgingwavesThyletterperish，andInakedgainTheshore；nolongerbindingbetheoath。
IPHIGENIA
Know’stthouwhatIwilldo？ForvariousillsArisetothosethatploughthedangerousdeep。
Whatinthisletteriscontain’d，whathereIswritten，allIwillrepeattothee，Thatthoumaystbearmymessagetomyfriends。
’GainstdangerthusIguard：ifthoupreserveTheletter，thatthoughsilentwilldeclareMypurport；ifitperishinthesea，Savingthyself，mywordstoothouwiltsave。
PYLADES
Wellhastthousaidtouchingthegodsandme。
SaythentowhomatArgosshallIbearThisletter？Whatrelateasheardfromthee？
IPHIGENIA（reading）
ThismessagetoOrestes，tothesonOfAgamemnon，bear：—She，whowasslainAtAulis，Iphigenia，sendstheethis：
Shelives，butnottothosewhothenwerethere。
ORESTES
Whereisshe？Fromthedeadreturn’dtolife？
IPHIGENIA
Shewhomthouseest：butinterruptmenot。
ToArgos，Omybrother，ereIdie，Bearmefromthisbarbaricland，andfarRemovemefromthisaltar’sbloodyrites，Atwhichtoslaythestrangerismycharge。—
ORESTES
WhatshallIsay？Wherearewe，Pylades？
IPHIGENIA
OronthyhouseforvengeancewillIcall，Orestes。Twicerepeated，learnthename。
ORESTES
Yegods！
IPHIGENIA
Inmycausewhyinvokethegods？
ORESTES
Nothing：proceed：mythoughtswerewanderingwide：
Strangethingsoftheeunask’dIsoonshalllearn。
IPHIGENIA
Tellhimthegoddesssavedme，inexchangeAhindpresenting，whichmyfatherslewAvictim，deemingthatheplungedhisswordDeepinmybreast：meinthislandsheplaced。
Thouhastmycharge：andthismyletterspeaks。