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。