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PERSEUS Acrisius, an ancient king of Argos, had been warned by an oracle that he should perish by the hand of his grandson. On discovering, therefore, that his daughter Danae had given birth to a son, Acrisius endeavored to escape his fate by setting both mother and child adrift on the sea. They were saved, however, by the help of Jupiter; and Perseus, the child, grew up at the court of Polydectes, king of Seriphos, an island in the Aegean Sea.
PERSEUS Acrisius, an ancient king of Argos, had been warned by an oracle that he should perish by the hand of his grandson. On discovering, therefore, that his daughter Danae had given birth to a son, Acrisius endeavored to escape his fate by setting both mother and child adrift on the sea. They were saved, however, by the help of Jupiter; and Perseus, the child, grew up at the court of Polydectes, king of Seriphos, an island in the Aegean Sea.
On reaching manhood, Perseus was sent by Polydectes to fetch the head of Medusa, one of the Gorgons. This dangerous task he accomplished with the help of Apollo and Minerva, and on his way home he rescued Andromeda, daughter of Cepheus, from a sea-monster. Perseus then married Andromeda, and lived some time in the country of Cepheus.
Then, after he had put the talaria on his feet, he mounted into the air. For a long time he flew through the air; at last, however, he came to that place where Medusa dwelt with the other Gorgons. The Gorgons, however, were monsters of horrible aspect; for their heads were entirely covered with snakes.
But suddenly, while they await the monster, Perseus runs up; and when he saw the tears he seeks the cause of the grief. They explain the whole matter and point out the girl. While these things are happening, a terrible roar is heard; at the same time a monster, horrible in aspect, is seen from afar.
At Perseus ubi haec vidit, gladium suum eduxit, et postquam talaria induit, in aera sublatus est. Tum desuper in monstrum impetum subito fecit, et gladio suo collum eius graviter vulneravit. Monstrum ubi sensit vulnus, fremitum horribilem edidit, et sine mora totum corpus in aquam mersit.
But when Perseus saw these things he drew his sword, and after he put on his talaria he was borne up into the air. Then from above he suddenly made an assault upon the monster, and with his sword grievously wounded its neck. When the monster felt the wound it uttered a horrible roar, and without delay plunged its whole body into the water.
Perseus postquam ad litus descendit, primum talaria exuit; tum ad rupem venit ubi Andromeda vincta erat. Ea autem omnem spem salutis deposuerat, et ubi Perseus adiit, terrore paene exanimata erat. Ille vincula statim solvit, et puellam patri reddidit.
After Perseus descended to the shore, first he took off his talaria; then he came to the rock where Andromeda was bound. She, however, had laid aside all hope of salvation, and when Perseus approached she was almost lifeless with terror. He at once loosened the bonds, and restored the maiden to her father.
Postquam Perseus ad insulam navem appulit, se ad locum contulit ubi mater olim habitaverat, sed domum invenit vacuam et omnino desertam. Tris dies per totam insulam matrem quaerebat; tandem quarto die ad templum Dianae pervenit. Huc Danae refugerat, quod Polydectem timebat.
After Perseus landed his ship on the island, he went to the place where his mother had once lived, but he found the house empty and wholly deserted. For three days he searched the entire island for his mother; at last, on the fourth day, he arrived at the temple of Diana. To this place Danae had taken refuge, because she feared Polydectes.
When Perseus learned this, he was stirred with great anger; he hastened without delay to the palace of Polydectes, and when he came there he at once burst into the atrium. Polydectes was seized with great fear and wished to flee. While, however, he fled, Perseus showed the head of Medusa; and he, as soon as he saw this, was turned into a rock.
Post haec Perseus cum uxore sua ad urbem Acrisi rediit. Ille autem ubi Perseum vidit, magno terrore adfectus est; nam propter oraculum istud nepotem suum adhuc timebat. In Thessaliam igitur ad urbem Larisam statim refugit, frustra tamen; neque enim fatum suum vitavit.
After these things Perseus returned with his wife to the city of Acrisius. But when he saw Perseus he was seized with great terror; for on account of that oracle he still feared his grandson. Therefore he immediately fled back into Thessaly to the city Larisa, yet in vain; for he did not escape his fate.
HERCULES Hercules, a Greek hero celebrated for his great strength, was pursued throughout his life by the hatred of Juno. While yet an infant, he strangled some serpents sent by the goddess to destroy him. During his boyhood and youth he performed various marvelous feats of strength, and on reaching manhood succeeded in delivering the Thebans from the oppression of the Minyae.
HERCULES Hercules, a Greek hero celebrated for his great strength, was pursued throughout his life by the hatred of Juno. While yet an infant, he strangled some serpents sent by the goddess to destroy him. During his boyhood and youth he performed various marvelous feats of strength, and on reaching manhood succeeded in delivering the Thebans from the oppression of the Minyae.
In a fit of madness sent upon him by Juno, he slew his own children; and on consulting the Delphic oracle as to how he should cleanse himself from this crime, he was ordered to submit himself for twelve years to Eurystheus, king of Tiryns, and to perform whatever tasks were appointed him. Hercules obeyed the oracle, and during the twelve years of his servitude accomplished twelve extraordinary feats known as the Labors of Hercules. His death was caused unintentionally by his wife Dejanira.
Hercules had shot with his poisoned arrows a centaur named Nessus, who had insulted Dejanira. Nessus, before he died, gave some of his blood to Dejanira and told her it would act as a charm to secure her husband's love. Some time after, Dejanira, wishing to try the charm, soaked one of her husband's garments in the blood, not knowing that it was poisoned.
He therefore sent two most savage serpents; these came in the middle of the night into Alcmena’s bedchamber, where Hercules was sleeping with his brother. Not, however, in cradles, but they lay upon a great shield. The serpents had already drawn near and were moving the shield; and so the boys were roused from sleep.
Hercules a puero corpus suum diligenter exercebat; magnam partem diei in palaestra consumebat; didicit etiam arcum intendere et tela conicere. His exercitationibus vires eius confirmatae sunt. In musica etiam a Lino centauro erudiebatur (centauri autem equi erant sed caput hominis habebant); huic tamen arti minus diligenter studebat.
From boyhood Hercules diligently exercised his body; he spent a large part of the day in the palaestra; he also learned to draw the bow and to hurl weapons. By these exercises his strength was confirmed. In music likewise he was taught by Linus the centaur (centaurs were horses but had the head of a man); to this art, however, he applied himself less diligently.
Here Linus once was rebuking Hercules, because he was not studious; then the boy, angry, suddenly snatched the lyre, and with all his strength struck the head of the unhappy teacher. He was laid low by the blow, and a little later departed from life, and no one afterward wished to take up that office.
Legates, however, were sent yearly from the Minyans to the Thebans; these came to Thebes and demanded a hundred oxen. For the Thebans had once been overcome by the Minyans; therefore tributes were paid annually to the king of the Minyans. But Hercules resolved to free his fellow-citizens from this levy; therefore he seized the envoys and cut off their ears.
Erginus, rex Minyarum, ob haec vehementer iratus statim cum omnibus copiis in finis Thebanorum contendit. Creon adventum eius per exploratores cognovit. Ipse tamen pugnare noluit, nam magno timore adfectus erat; Thebani igitur Herculem imperatorem creaverunt.
Erginus, king of the Minyans, exceedingly enraged at these things, at once marched with all his forces into the territory of the Thebans. Creon learned of his arrival by scouts. He himself, however, would not fight, for he was afflicted with great fear; therefore the Thebans appointed Hercules as commander.
Post hoc proelium Hercules copias suas ad urbem reduxit. Omnes Thebani propter victoriam maxime gaudebant; Creon autem magnis honoribus Herculem decoravit, atque filiam suam ei in matrimonium dedit. Hercules cum uxore sua beatam vitam agebat; sed post paucos annos subito in furorem incidit, atque liberos suos ipse sua manu occidit.
After this battle Hercules led his forces back to the city. All the Thebans rejoiced greatly because of the victory; Creon, however, adorned Hercules with great honors and gave his daughter to him in marriage. Hercules was living a blessed life with his wife; but after a few years he suddenly fell into madness, and he himself killed his children with his own hand.
Ubi Hercules finem fecit, Pythia primo tacebat; tandem tamen iussit eum ad urbem Tiryntha ire, et Eurysthei regis omnia imperata facere. Hercules ubi haec audivit, ad urbem illam contendit, et Eurystheo regi se in servitutem tradidit. Duodecim annos crudelissimo Eurystheo serviebat, et duodecim labores, quos ille imperaverat, confecit; hoc enim uno modo tantum scelus expiari potuit.
When Hercules had made an end, the Pythia at first was silent; at length, however, she ordered him to go to the city Tiryntha, and to do all the commands of King Eurystheus. When Hercules heard these things, he hastened to that city and surrendered himself into the servitude of King Eurystheus. He served the most cruel Eurystheus for twelve years, and completed the twelve labors which he had imposed; for this crime could only be expiated in this one way.
Primum ab Eurystheo iussus est Hercules leonem occidere qui illo tempore vallem Nemeaeam reddebat infestam. In silvas igitur in quibus leo habitabat statim se contulit. Mox feram vidit, et arcum, quem secum attulerat, intendit; eius tamen pellem, quae densissima erat, traicere non potuit.
First, Hercules was commanded by Eurystheus to kill a lion which at that time was making the Nemean valley unsafe. He therefore at once betook himself to the woods in which the lion dwelt. Soon he saw the beast, and drew the bow which he had brought with him; nevertheless he could not pierce its hide, which was most dense.
Then with the great club which he always bore he struck the lion, yet in vain; for by this method he could not kill it. Then at last he clasped the monster’s neck with his arms and compressed its throat with all his strength. In this way the lion was soon rendered lifeless; for no faculty of breathing was granted to it.
Then he resolved to fell trees and kindle a fire. He did this quickly, and after the logs had caught fire, with a burning torch he seared the necks whence the heads were springing. Yet he did not perform these deeds without great toil; for a huge crab came to the Hydra’s aid, which, while Hercules was cutting off the heads, was biting its legs.
Postquam Eurystheo caedes Hydrae nuntiata est, magnus timor animum eius occupavit. Iussit igitur Herculem cervum quendam ad se referre; noluit enim virum tantae audaciae in urbe retinere. Hic autem cervus, cuius cornua aurea fuisse traduntur, incredibili fuit celeritate.
After the slaughter of the Hydra had been announced to Eurystheus, great fear seized his mind. He therefore ordered that a certain stag be brought to him; for he did not wish to retain in the city a man of such boldness. This stag, whose horns are said to have been golden, was of incredible swiftness.
Hercules therefore at first tracked him by his vestiges in the wood; then when he saw the stag itself, he began to run with all his powers. He ran on until evening, nor did he leave the night-time to himself for rest, yet in vain; for in no way could he overtake the stag. At last, after he had run for a whole year (so it is handed down), he seized the stag, breathless from the course, and brought it alive back to Eurystheus.
But when the boar at once saw Hercules, it immediately fled; and, struck with terror, threw itself into a deep ditch. Hercules therefore cast the noose which he had brought, and with the greatest difficulty drew the boar out of the ditch. Although it resisted stoutly, it could in no way free itself; and was carried alive by Hercules to Eurystheus.
Pholus therefore did not wish to give this wine, because he feared the other centaurs; yet he had no wine in the cave besides this. "This wine," he said, "has been entrusted to me. If therefore I give this, the centaurs will kill me." Hercules, however, laughed at him, and himself drained a cup of wine from the amphora.
He hurled burning torches at them; he also wounded many with his arrows. These arrows, moreover, were the very same which had once been imbued with the blood of the Hydra. Therefore all those whom he had wounded with the arrows were at once consumed by the poison; the rest, when they saw this, turned their backs and sought safety by flight.
Postquam reliqui fugerunt, Pholus ex spelunca egressus est, et corpora spectabat eorum qui sagittis interfecti erant. Magnopere autem miratus est quod tam levi vulnere exanimati erant, et causam eius rei quaerebat. Adiit igitur locum ubi cadaver cuiusdam centauri iacebat, et sagittam e vulnere traxit.
After the others had fled, Pholus came forth from the cave, and was looking at the bodies of those who had been slain by arrows. He was greatly astonished, however, that they had been stricken lifeless by so slight a wound, and sought the cause of this thing. He therefore went to the spot where the corpse of a certain centaur lay, and drew an arrow from the wound.
But this, whether by chance or by the counsel of the gods, slipped from his hands and lightly wounded his foot. He at once felt a severe pain through all his limbs, and after a short time he was put out by the force of the poison. Soon Hercules, who had followed the other centaurs, returned to the cave, and with great grief saw Pholus dead.
Post paucos dies Hercules ad oppidum Stymphalum iter fecit; imperaverat enim ei Eurystheus ut avis Stymphalides necaret. Hae aves rostra aenea habebant et carne hominum vescebantur. Ille postquam ad locum pervenit, lacum vidit; in hoc autem lacu, qui non procul erat ab oppido, aves habitabant.
After a few days Hercules made a journey to the town of Stymphalus; for Eurystheus had commanded him to kill the Stymphalian bird. These birds had bronze beaks and fed on human flesh. When he had arrived at the place, he saw a lake; and in this lake, which was not far from the town, the birds dwelt.
Ille cum magnam partem diei frustra consumpsisset, hoc conatu destitit et ad Volcanum se contulit, ut auxilium ab eo peteret. Volcanus (qui ab fabris maxime colebatur) crepundia quae ipse ex aere fabricatus erat Herculi dedit. His Hercules tam acrem crepitum fecit ut aves perterritae avolarent.
After he had spent a great part of the day in vain, he abandoned this design and repaired to Vulcan to ask aid of him. Vulcan (who was especially revered by the smiths) gave Hercules rattles which he himself had fashioned from bronze. With these Hercules made so keen a clatter that the birds, terrified, flew away.
Tum Eurystheus Herculi imperavit ut taurum quendam ferocissimum ex insula Creta vivum referret. Ille igitur navem conscendit, et cum ventus idoneus esset, statim solvit. Cum tamen insulae iam appropinquaret, tanta tempestas subito coorta est ut navis cursum tenere non posset.
Then Eurystheus commanded Hercules to bring back alive a certain very ferocious bull from the island of Crete. He therefore boarded a ship, and when the wind was favorable, he at once set sail. But when he was already drawing near the island, so great a storm suddenly arose that the ship could not keep its course.
Post breve tempus summa tranquillitas consecuta est, et nautae, qui se ex timore iam receperant, navem incolumem ad terram appulerunt. Hercules e navi egressus est, et cum ad regem Cretae venisset, causam veniendi docuit. Deinde, postquam omnia parata sunt, ad eam regionem contendit quam taurus vastabat.
After a short time complete tranquillity was achieved, and the sailors, who had now recovered from their fear, brought the ship safely to shore. Hercules went forth from the ship, and when he had come to the king of Crete he explained the cause of his coming. Then, after all things were prepared, he hastened to that region which the bull was laying waste.
Postquam ex insula Creta rediit, Hercules ab Eurystheo in Thraciam missus est, ut equos Diomedis reduceret. Hi equi carne hominum vescebantur; Diomedes autem, vir crudelissimus, illis obiciebat peregrinos omnis qui in eam regionem venerant. Hercules igitur magna celeritate in Thraciam contendit et ab Diomede postulavit ut equi sibi traderentur.
After he returned from the island of Crete, Hercules was sent by Eurystheus into Thrace to bring back the horses of Diomedes. These horses fed on the flesh of men; Diomedes, moreover, a most cruel man, threw to them every stranger who had come into that region. Hercules therefore hastened with great speed into Thrace and demanded of Diomedes that the horses be handed over to him.
Ita mira rerum commutatio facta est; is enim qui antea multos cum cruciatu necaverat ipse eodem supplicio necatus est. Cum haec nuntiata essent, omnes qui eam regionem incolebant maxima laetitia adfecti sunt et Herculi meritam gratiam referebant. Non modo maximis honoribus et praemiis eum decoraverunt sed orabant etiam ut regnum ipse susciperet.
Thus a wondrous reversal of affairs was effected; for he who formerly had slain many with torture was himself slain by the same punishment. When these things were announced, all who dwelt in that region were seized with the greatest joy and rendered to Hercules the gratitude he had merited. Not only did they adorn him with the highest honors and rewards, but they even begged that he himself assume the kingship.
He, however, was unwilling to do this, and when he had returned to the sea he took possession of a ship. When all things were prepared for sailing he placed the horses in the ship; then, when he had obtained a suitable weather (tempest), without delay he put out from the harbour, and a little later unloaded the horses on the Argolic shore.
Admeta, however, daughter of Eurystheus, had received a report about this girdle and ardently desired to possess it. Eurystheus therefore commanded Hercules to muster forces and to wage war upon the Amazons. He sent messengers to all parts, and when a great multitude had assembled, he chose those who had the greatest experience in military affairs.
His viris Hercules persuasit, postquam causam itineris exposuit, ut secum iter facerent. Tum cum iis quibus persuaserat navem conscendit, et cum ventus idoneus esset, post paucos dies ad ostium fluminis Thermodontis appulit. Postquam in finis Amazonum venit, nuntium ad Hippolytam misit, qui causam veniendi doceret et balteum posceret.
Hercules persuaded those men, after he set forth the cause of the journey, to travel with him. Then he embarked in a ship with those he had won over, and when the wind was favorable, after a few days he put in at the mouth of the river Thermodon. After he came into the territory of the Amazons he sent a messenger to Hippolyta to explain the reason for his coming and to demand her girdle.
Amazones impetum virorum fortissime sustinuerunt, et contra opinionem omnium tantam virtutem praestiterunt ut multos eorum occiderint, multos etiam in fugam coniecerint. Viri enim novo genere pugnae perturbabantur nec magnam virtutem praestabant. Hercules autem cum haec videret, de suis fortunis desperare coepit.
The Amazons most bravely withstood the attack of the men, and contrary to the opinion of all displayed such valour that they killed many of them and even drove many into flight. For the men were disturbed by this new kind of fighting and did not show great courage. But when Hercules saw these things, he began to despair of his fortunes.
Therefore he strongly urged the soldiers to retain the memory of their former virtue and not to commit so great a dishonor, and to bravely withstand the attack of the enemies; by these words he raised the spirits of all so much that many, even those exhausted by wounds, renewed the battle without delay.
Diu et acriter pugnatum est; tandem tamen ad solis occasum tanta commutatio rerum facta est ut mulieres terga verterent et fuga salutem peterent. Multae autem vulneribus defessae dum fugiunt captae sunt, in quo numero ipsa erat Hippolyte. Hercules summam clementiam praestitit, et postquam balteum accepit, libertatem omnibus captivis dedit.
They fought long and fiercely; at last, however, by the sun’s setting such a change of affairs was made that the women turned their backs and sought safety by flight. Many, however, exhausted by wounds, were captured while they fled, among whom Hippolyte herself was. Hercules showed the greatest clemency, and after he received the belt he granted freedom to all the captives.
Then indeed he led his companions back to the sea, and, since not much of the summer remained, he hastened to set out for Greece. He therefore boarded a ship, and having found a suitable tempest (or weather) he immediately weighed anchor; yet before he reached Greece he decided to run the ship ashore at the city of Troy, for the grain which he had with him had already begun to fail.
Laomedon quidam illo tempore regnum Troiae obtinebat. Ad hunc Neptunus et Apollo anno superiore venerant, et cum Troia nondum moenia haberet, ad hoc opus auxilium obtulerant. Postquam tamen horum auxilio moenia confecta sunt, nolebat Laomedon praemium quod proposuerat persolvere.
A certain Laomedon at that time held the kingdom of Troy. To him Neptune and Apollo had come in the previous year, and since Troy did not yet have walls, they had offered aid for this work. But after, by their aid, the walls were completed, Laomedon was unwilling to pay the reward which he had proposed.
Neptunus igitur et Apollo ob hanc causam irati monstrum quoddam miserunt specie horribili, quod cottidie e mari veniebat et homines pecudesque vorabat. Troiani autem timore perterriti in urbe continebantur, et pecora omnia ex agris intra muros compulerant. Laomedon his rebus commotus oraculum consuluit, ac deus ei praecepit ut filiam Hesionem monstro obiceret.
Neptune therefore and Apollo, angry on this account, sent a certain monster of horrible aspect, which daily came from the sea and devoured men and cattle. The Trojans, terrified with fear, were confined within the city, and had driven all the herds from the fields inside the walls. Laomedon, moved by these matters, consulted an oracle, and the god commanded him to expose his daughter Hesione to the monster.
Laomedon, cum hoc responsum renuntiatum esset, magnum dolorem percepit; sed tamen, ut civis suos tanto periculo liberaret, oraculo parere constituit et diem sacrificio dixit. Sed sive casu sive consilio deorum Hercules tempore opportunissimo Troiam attigit; ipso enim temporis puncto quo puella catenis vincta ad litus deducebatur ille navem appulit. Hercules e navi egressus de rebus quae gerebantur certior factus est; tum ira commotus ad regem se contulit et auxilium suum obtulit.
Laomedon, when this answer had been proclaimed, felt great sorrow; but nevertheless, that he might free his citizens from so great a danger, he resolved to obey the oracle and appointed a day for the sacrifice. Whether by chance or by the counsel of the gods, Hercules reached Troy at a most opportune time; for at the very moment when the maiden, bound in chains, was being led down to the shore, he landed his ship. Hercules, having disembarked, was informed more fully about the things that were occurring; then, moved by anger, he went to the king and offered his aid.
When the king had willingly granted to him that, if he could, he should free the girl, Hercules killed the monster; and he brought the girl, who had already laid down all hope of safety, unharmed back to her father. Laomedon received his daughter with great joy, and rendered to Hercules deserved gratitude for so great a benefit.
Hercules, however, although he understood how great the peril was, undertook the enterprise; and after he had journeyed through many lands, he came to that part of Libya which is nearest to Europe. There, on both shores of the strait that divides Europe from Libya, he set up columns, which afterwards were called the Columns of Hercules.
Dum hic moratur, Hercules magnum incommodum ex calore solis accipiebat; tandem igitur ira commotus arcum suum intendit et solem sagittis petiit. Sol tamen audaciam viri tantum admiratus est ut lintrem auream ei dederit. Hercules hoc donum libentissime accepit, nullam enim navem in his regionibus invenire potuerat.
While he lingered here, Hercules was suffering great discomfort from the heat of the sun; at last therefore, moved by anger, he drew his bow and assailed the sun with arrows. The sun, however, so admired the audacity of the man that he gave him a golden ship. Hercules received this gift most gladly, for in these regions he had been unable to find any ship.
Then he launched the ship, and having caught a favorable wind, after a short time he arrived at the island. Where, from the inhabitants, he learned in what place the oxen were; he at once set out in that direction and demanded of King Geryon that the oxen be delivered to him. But when that man would not do this, Hercules killed both the king himself and Eurytion, who was of enormous bodily size.
Tum Hercules boves per Hispaniam et Liguriam compellere constituit; postquam igitur omnia parata sunt, boves ex insula ad continentem transportavit. Ligures autem, gens bellicosissima, dum ille per finis eorum iter facit, magnas copias coegerunt atque eum longius progredi prohibebant. Hercules magnam difficultatem habebat, barbari enim in locis superioribus constiterant et saxa telaque in eum coniciebant.
Then Hercules resolved to drive the cattle through Hispania and Liguria; therefore, after all things were prepared, he transported the cattle from the island to the continent. The Ligurians, however, a most warlike people, while he was passing through their territories, mustered great forces and prevented him from going farther. Hercules had great difficulty, for the barbarians had taken up positions on the higher ground and were casting rocks and missiles at him.
Postquam Ligures hoc modo superati sunt, Hercules quam celerrime progressus est et post paucos dies ad Alpis pervenit. Necesse erat has transire, ut in Italiam boves ageret; res tamen summae erat difficultatis. Hi enim montes, qui ulteriorem a citeriore Gallia dividunt, nive perenni sunt tecti; quam ob causam neque frumentum neque pabulum in his regionibus inveniri potest.
After the Ligurians were thus overcome, Hercules pushed on as swiftly as possible and after a few days came to the Alps. It was necessary to cross these, in order that he might drive cattle into Italy; however the matter was of the greatest difficulty. For these mountains, which divide the farther from the nearer Gaul, are covered with perennial snow; for which reason neither grain nor fodder can be found in these regions.
Not far from the valley where the oxen grazed there was a cave, in which Cacus, a horrible monster, then dwelt. He presented a terrifying appearance, not only because he was of immense bodily magnitude, but because he breathed fire from his mouth. Cacus, however, had heard the fame of Hercules’ arrival; therefore he came by night, and while Hercules slept he carried off four of the most beautiful oxen.
Postero die simul atque e somno excitatus est, Hercules furtum animadvertit et boves amissos omnibus locis quaerebat. Hos tamen nusquam reperire poterat, non modo quod loci naturam ignorabat, sed quod vestigiis falsis deceptus est. Tandem cum magnam partem diei frustra consumpsisset, cum reliquis bobus progredi constituit.
On the following day, as soon as he was roused from sleep, Hercules noticed the theft and was searching for the lost oxen in every place. Yet he could nowhere find them, not only because he was ignorant of the nature of the place, but because he had been deceived by false tracks. At last, when he had wasted a large part of the day in vain, he determined to proceed with the remaining oxen.
But while he was preparing to set out, one of the oxen which he had with him began to low. Suddenly those who were enclosed in the cavern returned the lowing, and in this way made Hercules certain in what place they had been concealed. He, very angry, hastened to the cavern as quickly as possible, so that he might recover the prey.
Hercules cum nullum alium introitum reperire posset, hoc saxum amovere conatus est, sed propter eius magnitudinem res erat difficillima. Diu frustra laborabat neque quicquam efficere poterat; tandem tamen magno conatu saxum amovit et speluncam patefecit. Ibi amissos boves magno cum gaudio conspexit; sed Cacum ipsum vix cernere potuit, quod spelunca repleta erat fumo quem ille more suo evomebat.
Hercules, since he could find no other entrance, tried to remove this rock, but because of its magnitude the thing was very difficult. For a long time he laboured in vain and was able to effect nothing; yet at last with great exertion he removed the rock and laid the cave open. There he saw the missing oxen with great joy; but he could scarcely make out Cacus himself, because the cave was filled with smoke which he was wont to vomit forth.
45.ELEVENTH LABOR: THE GOLDEN APPLES OF THE HESPERIDES
45.ELEVENTH LABOR: THE GOLDEN APPLES OF THE HESPERIDES
Eurystheus postquam boves Geryonis accepit, laborem undecimum Herculi imposuit, graviorem quam quos supra narravimus. Mandavit enim ei ut aurea poma ex horto Hesperidum auferret. Hesperides autem nymphae erant quaedam forma praestantissima, quae in terra longinqua habitabant, et quibus aurea quaedam poma a Iunone commissa erant.
After Eurystheus had received Geryon's cattle, he imposed the eleventh labor on Hercules, more grievous than those we related above. For he commanded him to carry off the golden apples from the garden of the Hesperides. The Hesperides, moreover, were certain nymphs of most outstanding form, who dwelt in a far land, and to whom certain golden apples had been entrusted by Juno.
Many men, induced by a desire for gold, had already before attempted to take away these apples. The matter, however, was most difficult; for the garden in which the apples were was surrounded on all sides by a huge wall; moreover a certain dragon, which had a hundred heads, was diligently guarding the gate of the garden. The task, therefore, which Eurystheus had commanded of Hercules was of the greatest difficulty, not only because of the reasons which we have mentioned, but also because Hercules completely did not know in what place that garden was situated.
Hercules quamquam quietem vehementer cupiebat, tamen Eurystheo parere constituit, et simul ac iussa eius accepit, proficisci maturavit. A multis mercatoribus quaesiverat quo in loco Hesperides habitarent, nihil tamen certum reperire potuerat. Frustra per multas terras iter fecit et multa pericula subiit; tandem, cum in his itineribus totum annum consumpsisset, ad extremam partem orbis terrarum, quae proxima est Oceano, pervenit.
Although Hercules greatly desired rest, yet he resolved to obey Eurystheus, and as soon as he received his orders he made haste to set out. He had asked many merchants where the Hesperides dwelt, but could find nothing certain. In vain he journeyed through many lands and suffered many dangers; at last, when he had consumed a whole year in these journeys, he came to the extreme part of the earth, which is nearest the Ocean.
Here stood a certain man, by name Atlas, of vast magnitude of body, who upheld the sky (so it is handed down) on his shoulders, lest it fall to the earth. Hercules, greatly marveling at so great a man, straightaway came into conference with Atlas, and when he had explained the cause of his journey, he sought aid from him.
Atlas autem Herculi maxime prodesse potuit; ille enim cum ipse esset pater Hesperidum, certo scivit quo in loco esset hortus. Postquam igitur audivit quam ob causam Hercules venisset, "Ipse," inquit, "ad hortum ibo et filiabus meis persuadebo ut poma sua sponte tradant." Hercules cum haec audiret, magnopere gavisus est; vim enim adhibere noluit, si res aliter fieri posset. Constituit igitur oblatum auxilium accipere.
Atlas, however, could be of the greatest service to Hercules; for since he himself was the father of the Hesperides, he certainly knew in what place the garden was. Therefore, after he heard for what reason Hercules had come, "I myself," he said, "will go to the garden and will persuade my daughters to deliver their apples of their own accord." When Hercules heard these things, he was very glad; for he did not wish to employ force, if the matter could be otherwise. He therefore resolved to accept the offered aid.
Atlas interea abierat et ad hortum Hesperidum, qui pauca milia passuum aberat, se quam celerrime contulerat. Eo cum venisset, causam veniendi exposuit et filias suas vehementer hortatus est ut poma traderent. Illae diu haerebant; nolebant enim hoc facere, quod ab ipsa Iunone (ita ut ante dictum est) hoc munus accepissent.
Atlas meanwhile had gone away and had hastened as swiftly as possible to the garden of the Hesperides, which lay a few thousand paces off. When he had come there, he set forth the reason for his coming and earnestly urged his daughters to hand over the apples. They clung for a long time; for they did not wish to do this, since they had received this charge from Juno herself (as was said before).
Atlas, however, at last persuaded them to obey him, and brought the apples back to Hercules. Hercules, meanwhile, having waited several days and having received no news of Atlas’s return, was greatly disturbed by this delay. At length on the fifth day he saw Atlas returning, and soon received the apples with great joy; then, after giving thanks for so great a benefit, he made ready to set out for Greece.
Postquam aurea poma ad Eurystheum relata sunt, unus modo relinquebatur e duodecim laboribus quos Pythia Herculi praeceperat. Eurystheus autem cum Herculem magnopere timeret, eum in aliquem locum mittere volebat unde numquam redire posset. Negotium igitur ei dedit ut canem Cerberum ex Orco in lucem traheret.
After the golden apples had been brought to Eurystheus, only one remained of the twelve labors which the Pythia had prescribed to Hercules. And Eurystheus, since he greatly feared Hercules, wished to send him to some place from which he could never return. Therefore he gave him the task to drag the dog Cerberus from Orcus into the light.
This task was the most difficult of all, for no one ever returned from Orcus. Moreover this Cerberus was a monster of horrible aspect, whose three heads were encircled with savage serpents. Before, however, we tell of this labor, it does not seem inappropriate, since we have made mention of Orcus, to set forth a few things about that region.
De Orco, qui idem Hades appellabatur, haec traduntur. Ut quisque de vita decesserat, manes eius ad Orcum, sedem mortuorum, a deo Mercurio deducebantur. Huius regionis, quae sub terra fuisse dicitur, rex erat Pluto, cui uxor erat Proserpina, Iovis et Cereris filia.
Of Orcus, who was likewise called Hades, these things are handed down. As each one had departed from life, his manes were led to Orcus, the seat of the dead, by the god Mercury. The king of this region, which is said to have been under the earth, was Pluto, whose wife was Proserpina, daughter of Jupiter and Ceres.
The manes, therefore, led by Mercury, first came to the bank of the river Styx, by which the realm of Pluto is contained. It was necessary to cross this before they could come into Orcus. But since no bridge had been made over this river, the manes were ferried across by a certain Charon, who waited on the bank with a small skiff.
Charon demanded payment for this service, and would not ferry anyone across unless he had first received this reward. For this reason it was a custom among the ancients to place a coin in the mouth of the dead with the purpose that when he had come to the Styx he might be able to pay the price of the crossing. But those who after death had not been buried in the earth were not able to cross the Styx, but were forced to wander on the bank for a hundred years; then at last it was permitted to enter Orcus.
Ut autem manes Stygem hoc modo transierant, ad alterum veniebant flumen, quod Lethe appellabatur. Ex hoc flumine aquam bibere cogebantur; quod cum fecissent, res omnis in vita gestas e memoria deponebant. Denique ad sedem ipsius Plutonis veniebant, cuius introitus a cane Cerbero custodiebatur.
When however the manes had thus crossed the Stygian Styx, they came to another river, which was called Lethe. From this river they were compelled to drink water; and when they had done so, they laid aside from their memory all things done in life. At length they came to the seat of Pluto himself, whose entrance was guarded by the dog Cerberus.
Hercules postquam imperia Eurysthei accepit, in Laconiam ad Taenarum statim se contulit; ibi enim spelunca erat ingenti magnitudine, per quam, ut tradebatur, homines ad Orcum descendebant. Eo cum venisset, ex incolis quaesivit quo in loco spelunca illa sita esset; quod cum cognovisset, sine mora descendere constituit. Nec tamen solus hoc iter faciebat, Mercurius enim et Minerva se ei socios adiunxerant.
After Hercules received the commands of Eurystheus, he at once made for Laconia, to Taenarum; for there was a cave of immense size, through which, as was told, men descended to Orcus. When he had come there he asked the inhabitants in what place that cave was situated; and when he had learned it, he resolved to descend without delay. He was not, however, making this journey alone, for Mercury and Minerva had joined themselves to him as companions.
When he came to the bank of the Styx, Hercules boarded Charon’s skiff in order to cross to the farther bank. But since Hercules was a man of enormous bodily magnitude, Charon refused to loosen; for he greatly feared that his skiff, burdened by so great a weight, might sink in the middle of the river. At last, however, frightened by Hercules’ threats, Charon cast off the skiff and brought him unharmed to the farther shore.
Postquam flumen Stygem hoc modo transiit, Hercules in sedem ipsius Plutonis venit; et postquam causam veniendi docuit, ab eo petivit ut Cerberum auferre sibi liceret. Pluto, qui de Hercule famam acceperat, eum benigne excepit, et facultatem quam ille petebat libenter dedit. Postulavit tamen ut Hercules ipse, cum imperata Eurysthei fecisset, Cerberum in Orcum rursus reduceret.
After he crossed the river Styx in this way, Hercules came into the very seat of Pluto; and after he explained the cause of his coming, he asked of him that he be permitted to take away Cerberus. Pluto, who had heard the report concerning Hercules, received him kindly, and gladly gave the faculty which he asked. He nevertheless demanded that Hercules himself, when he had done the commands of Eurystheus, should lead Cerberus back again into Orcus.
Hercules made this promise, and Cerberus, whom he had seized with his hands not without great danger, he dragged with the greatest toil from Orcus into the light and to the city of Eurystheus. When he had come thither, such a great fear seized the mind of Eurystheus that he at once fled from the atrium; but when he had recovered himself a little from his fear, with many tears he begged Hercules to return the monster without delay into Orcus. Thus, contrary to the opinion of all, those twelve labors which the Pythia had ordered were accomplished within twelve years; and when these things were so, Hercules, finally freed from servitude, returned to Thebes with great joy.
Postea Hercules multa alia praeclara perfecit, quae nunc perscribere longum est. Tandem iam aetate provectus Deianiram, Oenei filiam, in matrimonium duxit; post tamen tris annos accidit ut puerum quendam, cui nomen erat Eunomus, casu occiderit. Cum autem mos esset ut si quis hominem casu occidisset, in exsilium iret, Hercules cum uxore sua e finibus eius civitatis exire maturavit.
Afterwards Hercules accomplished many other illustrious deeds, which it would now be long to set down. At last, now advanced in age, he married Deianira, daughter of Oeneus; but after three years it happened that he accidentally killed a certain boy whose name was Eunomus. And since the custom was that if anyone had killed a man by accident he must go into exile, Hercules hastened to depart from the territory of that state with his wife.
While however they were making their journey, they came to a certain river in which there was no bridge; and while they sought by what manner they might cross the river, the centaur Nessus ran up, who offered assistance to the travelers. Hercules therefore placed his wife on Nessus’s back; then he himself crossed the river. Nessus, however, having advanced a little into the water toward the bank, suddenly turned back and tried to carry off Deianira.
Nessus igitur sagitta Herculis transfixus moriens humi iacebat; at ne occasionem sui ulciscendi dimitteret, ita locutus est: "Tu, Deianira, verba morientis audi. Si amorem mariti tui conservare vis, hunc sanguinem qui nunc e pectore meo effunditur sume ac repone; tum, si umquam in suspicionem tibi venerit, vestem mariti hoc sanguine inficies." Haec locutus Nessus animam efflavit; Deianira autem nihil mali suspicata imperata fecit. Paulo post Hercules bellum contra Eurytum, regem Oechaliae, suscepit; et cum regem ipsum cum filiis interfecisset, Iolen eius filiam captivam secum reduxit.
Nessus therefore, pierced by Hercules’ arrow, lay dying on the ground; but lest he let slip the occasion of avenging himself, he spoke thus: "You, Deianira, hear the words of one dying. If you wish to preserve the love of your husband, take and keep this blood which now pours from my chest; then, if ever a suspicion comes to you, stain your husband’s garment with this blood." Having spoken these things Nessus breathed out his soul; Deianira, however, suspecting nothing evil, did what was commanded. A little later Hercules undertook war against Eurytus, king of Oechalia; and when he had slain the king himself along with his sons, he brought his daughter Iole back captive with him.
Before he came home, however, he sailed his ship to the promontory Cenaeum, and having gone ashore he set up an altar to sacrifice to Jupiter. While he prepared the sacrifice, he sent Lichas, his companion, home to fetch back a white garment; for it was the custom among the ancients, when they made sacrifices, to wear a white garment. But Deianira, fearing that Hercules might feel love for Iole, stained the garment with Nessus’s blood before she gave it to Lichas.
Hercules nihil mali suspicans vestem quam Lichas attulerat statim induit; paulo post tamen dolorem per omnia membra sensit, et quae causa esset eius rei magnopere mirabatur. Dolore paene exanimatus vestem detrahere conatus est; illa tamen in corpore haesit, neque ullo modo abscindi potuit. Tum demum Hercules quasi furore impulsus in montem Octam se contulit, et in rogum, quem summa celeritate exstruxit, se imposuit.
Hercules, suspecting nothing evil in the garment which Lichas had brought, at once put it on; a little later, however, he felt pain throughout all his limbs, and greatly wondered what the cause of this matter might be. Almost stunned by pain he tried to strip the garment off; yet it clung to his body, and in no way could it be cut away. Then at last Hercules, as if driven by fury, withdrew to Mount Octa, and upon the pyre which with the greatest speed he built up he laid himself.
When he had done this, he begged those who stood around that they would set the pyre on fire as quickly as possible. All long refused; at last, however, a certain shepherd, moved to mercy, applied fire beneath. Then, while all things were darkened by smoke, Hercules, veiled by a dense cloud, was snatched up by Jove into Olympus.
Finally he returned to Thessaly; and Pelias, fearing that he might attempt to recover the kingdom, sent him to fetch the Golden Fleece from Colchis, supposing this to be an impossible feat. Jason, with a band of heroes, set sail in the ship Argo (so called from Argus, its builder), and after many adventures reached Colchis. There Aeetes, king of Colchis, unwilling to give up the Fleece, set Jason to perform what seemed an impossible task, namely to plough a field with certain fire‑breathing oxen, and then to sow it with dragon's teeth.
Medea, however, the daughter of the king, assisted Jason by her skill in magic, first to perform the task appointed, and then to procure the Fleece. She then fled with Jason, and to delay the pursuit of her father, sacrificed her brother Absyrtus. After reaching Thessaly, Medea caused the death of Pelias and was expelled from the country with her husband.
Erant olim in Thessalia duo fratres, quorum alter Aeson, Pelias alter appellabatur. Aeson primo regnum obtinuerat; at post paucos annos Pelias regni cupiditate adductus non modo fratrem suum expulit, sed etiam in animo habebat Iasonem, Aesonis filium, interficere. Quidam tamen ex amicis Aesonis, ubi sententiam Peliae cognoverunt, puerum e tanto periculo eripere constituerunt.
There once were in Thessaly two brothers, one called Aeson, the other Pelias. Aeson at first obtained the kingdom; but after a few years Pelias, led by a desire for the reign, not only expelled his brother, but also intended to kill Jason, Aeson’s son. Certain friends of Aeson, however, when they learned Pelias’s intent, resolved to rescue the boy from so great a danger.
By night, therefore, they carried Iason away from the city, and when on the following day they had returned to the king, they announced to him that the boy was dead. Pelias, when he had heard this, although in truth he felt great joy, nevertheless put on the appearance of sorrow and inquired what was the cause of the death. They, however, since they well understood that his sorrow was false, devised — I know not what — a tale of the boy’s death.
Post breve tempus Pelias, veritus ne regnum suum tanta vi et fraude occupatum amitteret, amicum quendam Delphos misit, qui oraculum consuleret. Ille igitur quam celerrime Delphos se contulit et quam ob causam venisset demonstravit. Respondit oraculum nullum esse in praesentia periculum; monuit tamen Peliam ut si quis unum calceum gerens veniret, eum caveret.
After a short time Pelias, fearing lest he lose his kingdom being seized by such force and fraud, sent a certain friend to Delphi to consult the oracle. He therefore hastened to Delphi as quickly as possible and explained for what reason he had come. The oracle answered that there was no danger at present; yet it warned Pelias that if anyone should come wearing one shoe, he should beware him.
After a few years it came about that Pelias was about to celebrate a great sacrifice; he had sent messengers into all parts and had named a certain day for assembling. On the appointed day a great number of men gathered from the fields on every side; among them also came Jason, who from boyhood had dwelt with a certain centaur. Yet as he was travelling, he lost one of his shoes while crossing some river I know not which.
There was a certain king Aeetes, who at that time held the kingdom of Colchis. To him had been entrusted that golden fleece which Phrixus long before had left there. Pelias therefore resolved to set Jason the task of gaining possession of this fleece; for since the matter was of great danger, he hoped that Jason would perish on the journey.
Cum tamen Colchis multorum dierum iter ab eo loco abesset, solus Iason proficisci noluit. Dimisit igitur nuntios in omnis partis, qui causam itineris docerent et diem certam conveniendi dicerent. Interea, postquam omnia quae sunt usui ad armandas navis comportari iussit, negotium dedit Argo cuidam, qui summam scientiam nauticarum rerum habebat, ut navem aedificaret.
Since Colchis was nevertheless a journey of many days distant from that place, Jason alone did not wish to set out. He therefore sent messengers in all directions to announce the cause of the journey and to name a certain day for meeting. Meanwhile, after he ordered that all things useful for equipping ships be brought together, he entrusted the task to Argo, a certain man who had the highest knowledge of nautical affairs, that he should build the ship.
About ten days were consumed in these affairs; for Argus, who was set over the work, applied such diligence that he did not even leave off labor at night. For the transport of a multitude of men the ship was somewhat broader than those which we are accustomed to use in our sea, and to endure the force of storms she was made entirely of oak.
Interea is dies appetebat quem Iason per nuntios edixerat, et ex omnibus regionibus Graeciae multi, quos aut rei novitas aut spes gloriae movebat, undique conveniebant. Traditum est autem in hoc numero fuisse Herculem, de quo supra multa perscripsimus, Orpheum, citharoedum praeclarissimum, Theseum, Castorem, multosque alios quorum nomina sunt notissima. Ex his Iason quos arbitratus est ad omnia pericula subeunda paratissimos esse, eos ad numerum quinquaginta delegit et socios sibi adiunxit; tum paucos dies commoratus, ut ad omnis casus subsidia compararet, navem deduxit, et tempestatem ad navigandum idoneam nactus magno cum plausu omnium solvit.
Meanwhile the day approached which Jason had appointed by messengers, and many from all the regions of Greece, whom either the novelty of the enterprise or the hope of glory stirred, were assembling from every quarter. It is reported, moreover, that in this number were Hercules, of whom above we have written much, Orpheus, the most celebrated citharist, Theseus, Castor, and many others whose names are very well known. From these Jason selected those whom he judged most ready to undergo all dangers, choosing them to the number of 50 and adding them as companions to himself; then, after remaining a few days to provide aids for every eventuality, he launched the ship, and having found a weather fit for sailing, put to sea to great applause of all.
Haud multo post Argonautae (ita enim appellabantur qui in ista navi vehebantur) insulam quandam, nomine Cyzicum, attigerunt; et e navi egressi a rege illius regionis hospitio excepti sunt. Paucas horas ibi commorati ad solis occasum rursus solverunt; sed postquam pauca milia passuum progressi sunt, tanta tempestas subito coorta est ut cursum tenere non possent, et in eandem partem insulae unde nuper profecti erant magno cum periculo deicerentur. Incolae tamen, cum nox esset obscura, Argonautas non agnoscebant, et navem inimicam venisse arbitrati arma rapuerunt et eos egredi prohibebant.
Not long after the Argonautae (for thus they were called who were borne in that ship) reached a certain island, named Cyzicus; and having gone ashore from the ship they were received into the hospitality of the king of that region. Having remained there a few hours they again weighed anchor at sunset; but after they had proceeded a few miles, so great a storm suddenly arose that they could not hold their course, and they were cast upon the same part of the island from which they had lately set out, with great danger. The inhabitants, however, when night was dark, did not recognize the Argonauts, and, thinking that an enemy ship had come, seized arms and prevented them from landing.
A fierce battle was fought on the shore, and the king himself, who had run down with others, was killed by the Argonauts. Soon, however, when it was already dawning, the inhabitants perceived that they had been mistaken and cast away their arms; but the Argonauts, when they saw that the king had been killed, felt great sorrow.
Postridie eius diei Iason tempestatem satis idoneam esse arbitratus (summa enim tranquillitas iam consecuta erat), ancoras sustulit, et pauca milia passuum progressus ante noctem Mysiam attigit. Ibi paucas horas in ancoris exspectavit; a nautis enim cognoverat aquae copiam quam secum haberent iam deficere, quam ob causam quidam ex Argonautis in terram egressi aquam quaerebant. Horum in numero erat Hylas quidam, puer forma praestantissima.
On the following day Jason, having judged the storm to be sufficiently suitable (for indeed the utmost calm had now been attained), weighed anchor, and after advancing a few thousand paces reached Mysia before night. There he waited at anchor for a few hours; for he had learned from the sailors that the supply of water they had with them was already failing, wherefore some of the Argonauts, having gone ashore, sought water. Among these was a certain Hylas, a boy of most excellent form.
Post haec Argonautae ad Thraciam cursum tenuerunt, et postquam ad oppidum Salmydessum navem appulerunt, in terram egressi sunt. Ibi cum ab incolis quaesissent quis regnum eius regionis obtineret, certiores facti sunt Phineum quendam tum regem esse. Cognoverunt etiam hunc caecum esse et diro quodam supplicio adfici, quod olim se crudelissimum in filios suos praebuisset.
After this the Argonauts held their course for Thrace, and after they brought their ship to the town Salmydessus and went ashore, there, having asked the inhabitants who held the kingship of that region, they were informed that a certain Phineus was then king. They learned also that he was blind and afflicted with a certain dire punishment, because he had once shown himself most cruel to his own sons.
The kind of his torment was this. Certain monsters had been sent by Jove of a horrible aspect, which had the heads of maidens and the bodies of birds. These birds, which were called Harpies, brought the greatest annoyance to Phineus; for whenever he reclined, they would come and at once carry off the food set before him.
He therefore sent a messenger to the ship to summon Jason and his companions to the palace. When they had come there, Phineus showed how much his affairs were in peril, and promised that he would give great rewards if they should discover a remedy. The Argonauts willingly undertook the business, and when the hour came they reclined with the king; but as soon as the dinner was set the Harpies entered the dining-room and tried to carry off the food.
At first the Argonauts attacked the flying creatures with swords; but when they saw that this availed nothing, Zetes and Calais, who were equipped with wings, lifted themselves into the air to make an assault from above. When the Harpies perceived this, terrified by the novelty of the thing, they at once fled away, and never afterwards returned.
Hoc facto Phineus, ut pro tanto beneficio meritam gratiam referret, Iasoni demonstravit qua ratione Symplegades vitare posset. Symplegades autem duae erant rupes ingenti magnitudine, quae a Iove positae erant eo consilio, ne quis ad Colchida perveniret. Hae parvo intervallo in mari natabant, et si quid in medium spatium venerat, incredibili celeritate concurrebant.
Having done this, Phineus, that he might render deserved gratitude for so great a kindness, showed to Jason by what method he could avoid the Symplegades. The Symplegades, however, were two rocks of enormous magnitude, which had been placed by Jove with the purpose that no one should reach Colchis. These floated at a small interval on the sea, and if anything came into the middle space, they would rush together with incredible swiftness.
After therefore he had been instructed by Phineus what was to be done, Jason weighed anchor, loosed the ship, and, borne onward by a gentle wind, soon approached the Symplegades. Then, standing on the prow, he released the dove which he held in his hand. It flew a straight course through the middle space, and before the rocks collided it escaped unhurt, only its tail having been lost.
Then the rocks on either side withdrew; yet before they could again crash together, the Argonauts, well understanding that all hope of safety lay in speed, strove with their oars with the greatest force and brought the ship through unharmed. When this was done they gave the greatest thanks to the gods, by whose aid they had been rescued from so great a peril; for all knew that the matter had not so happily turned out without the assistance of the gods.
Brevi intermisso spatio Argonautae ad flumen Phasim venerunt, quod in finibus Colchorum erat. Ibi cum navem appulissent et in terram egressi essent, statim ad regem Aeetem se contulerunt et ab eo postulaverunt ut vellus aureum sibi traderetur. Ille cum audivisset quam ob causam Argonautae venissent, ira commotus est et diu negabat se vellus traditurum esse.
After a short interval the Argonauts came to the river Phasis, which was in the borders of the Colchians. There, when they had moored the ship and had gone ashore, they at once betook themselves to King Aeetes and demanded that the Golden Fleece be delivered to them. He, when he had heard for what cause the Argonauts had come, was stirred with anger and for a long time refused that he would hand over the fleece.
Finally, however, because he knew that Jason had undertaken this enterprise not without the aid of the gods, he changed his mind and promised that he would deliver the fleece if Jason first completed two very difficult labors; and when Jason said he was ready to undergo all dangers, he showed what he wished to be done. First, two bulls of a horrible appearance, which breathed fire from their mouths, had to be yoked; then, with these yoked, a certain field had to be ploughed and the dragon’s teeth sown. Jason, having heard these things, although he perceived the matter to be of the utmost peril, nevertheless, lest he lose this opportunity of bringing the enterprise to a successful end, undertook the task.
Medea, regis filia, Iasonem adamavit, et ubi audivit eum tantum periculum subiturum esse, rem aegre ferebat. Intellegebat enim patrem suum hunc laborem proposuisse eo ipso consilio, ut Iason moreretur. Quae cum ita essent, Medea, quae summam scientiam medicinae habebat, hoc consilium iniit.
Medea, regis filia, loved Iason, and when she heard that he would be exposed to so great a danger, she bore the matter reluctantly. For she understood that her father had proposed this labour with the very design that Iason should die. And since things were thus, Medea, who had the highest knowledge of medicine, devised this plan.
In the middle of the night, with her father unaware, she slipped out of the city, and after she came to neighboring mountains she plucked certain herbs; then, with their juice pressed out, she prepared an ointment which by its force would nourish the body and strengthen the sinews. This done she gave the ointment to Jason; and she ordered that on the day on which those labors were to be accomplished he should anoint his body and arms in the morning. Jason, although in size and bodily strength he surpassed almost all men (for his whole life was consumed in hunting and in the pursuit of military exercise), nevertheless judged that this counsel ought not to be neglected.
Ubi is dies venit quem rex ad arandum agrum edixerat, Iason orta luce cum sociis ad locum constitutum se contulit. Ibi stabulum ingens repperit, in quo tauri erant inclusi; tum portis apertis tauros in lucem traxit, et summa cum difficultate iugum imposuit. At Aeetes cum videret tauros nihil contra Iasonem valere, magnopere miratus est; nesciebat enim filiam suam auxilium ei dedisse.
When that day came which the king had appointed for plowing the field, Jason, at dawn, with his companions repaired to the appointed place. There he found a vast stable in which bulls were enclosed; then, with the gates opened, he hauled the bulls into the light, and with the greatest difficulty put the yoke upon them. But when Aeetes saw that the bulls availed nothing against Jason, he was greatly astonished; for he did not know that his daughter had given him aid.
Then Jason, with all eyes upon him, began to plough the field, in which task he showed such diligence that before midday he completed the whole work. When this was done he went to the place where the king sat and demanded the dragon's teeth; and when he had received them he scattered them in the field which he had ploughed with great diligence. The nature of those teeth was such that in the very spots where the seeds were sown armed men were, in a marvelous manner, produced.
Nondum tamen Iason totum opus confecerat; imperaverat enim ei Aeetes ut armatos viros qui e dentibus gignerentur solus interficeret. Postquam igitur omnis dentis in agrum sparsit, Iason lassitudine exanimatus quieti se tradidit, dum viri isti gignerentur. Paucas horas dormiebat, sub vesperum tamen e somno subito excitatus rem ita evenisse ut praedictum esset cognovit; nam in omnibus agri partibus viri ingenti magnitudine corporis gladiis galeisque armati mirum in modum e terra oriebantur.
Not yet, however, had Jason completed the whole task; for Aeetes had commanded him that he alone should slay the armed men who were to be born from the teeth. Therefore, after he had scattered all the teeth into the field, Jason, exhausted with fatigue, gave himself up to rest while those men were being engendered. He slept for a few hours, yet toward evening, suddenly roused from sleep, he learned that the matter had happened as had been foretold; for in every part of the field men of enormous bodily magnitude, armed with swords and helms, were rising from the earth in a wondrous way.
Knowing this, Iason thought the counsel that Medea had given must not be neglected. Therefore he hurled a huge rock (for so Medea had commanded) into the midst of the men. They ran together to the spot from every side, and when each wished to possess that rock for himself, I know not why, a great quarrel arose.
Rex Aeetes ubi Iasonem laborem propositum confecisse cognovit, ira graviter commotus est; id enim per dolum factum esse intellegebat; nec dubitabat quin Medea ei auxilium tulisset. Medea autem cum intellegeret se in magno fore periculo si in regia maneret, fuga salutem petere constituit. Omnibus rebus igitur ad fugam paratis media nocte insciente patre cum fratre Absyrto evasit, et quam celerrime ad locum ubi Argo subducta erat se contulit.
When King Aeetes learned that Jason had completed the task proposed, he was severely moved with anger; for he understood that it had been done by deceit, and he did not doubt that Medea had brought him aid. But when Medea understood that she would be in great danger if she remained in the palace, she resolved to seek safety by flight. Therefore, with all things prepared for flight, in the middle of the night with her father unaware she slipped away with her brother Absyrtus, and as quickly as possible made her way to the place where the Argo had been hauled up.
When she had come there, she threw herself at Jason’s feet, and with many tears besought him that he not abandon a woman in so great a danger who had so greatly aided him. He, remembering that he had escaped from great danger by her aid, gladly received her, and after he heard the cause of her coming he urged her not to fear her father’s wrath. Moreover he promised that he would carry her away on his ship as soon as possible.
Postridie eius diei Iason cum sociis suis orta luce navem deduxit, et tempestatem idoneam nacti ad eum locum remis contenderunt, quo in loco Medea vellus celatum esse demonstrabat. Cum eo venissent, Iason in terram egressus est, et sociis ad mare relictis, qui praesidio navi essent, ipse cum Medea in silvas se contulit. Pauca milia passuum per silvam progressus vellus quod quaerebat ex arbore suspensum vidit.
On the day following, at dawn Jason with his companions launched the ship, and having found a suitable breeze they strove with oars to that place which Medea showed that the fleece was hidden. When they had come there, Jason went ashore, and leaving his companions by the sea, who were to guard the ship, he himself with Medea withdrew into the woods. Having advanced a few thousand paces through the wood he saw the fleece he sought hanging from a tree.
It was, however, of the utmost difficulty to carry it off; for not only was the place itself excellently fortified both by nature and by art, but also a certain dragon of terrible aspect guarded the tree. Then Medea, who, as we have shown above, possessed the highest knowledge of medicine, infected a branch which she had plucked from a nearby tree with poison. This done, she approached the spot, and sprinkled the dragon, who with open jaws awaited her arrival, with the poison; then, while the dragon, overcome by sleep, slept, Jason plucked the golden fleece from the tree and, with Medea, retraced his steps on foot as swiftly as possible.
Dum autem ea geruntur, Argonautae, qui ad mare relicti erant, anxio animo reditum Iasonis exspectabant; id enim negotium summi esse periculi intellegebant. Postquam igitur ad occasum solis frustra exspectaverunt, de eius salute desperare coeperunt, nec dubitabant quin aliqui casus accidisset. Quae cum ita essent, maturandum sibi censuerunt, ut duci auxilium ferrent; sed dum proficisci parant, lumen quoddam subito conspiciunt mirum in modum intra silvas refulgens, et magnopere mirati quae causa esset eius rei ad locum concurrunt.
While these things were happening, the Argonauts, who had been left by the sea, awaited Jason’s return with anxious mind; for they understood that that business was of the utmost peril. Therefore, after they had waited in vain until the sun’s setting, they began to despair of his safety, nor did they doubt that some mishap had occurred. Since things were thus, they judged that they must hasten to bring assistance to their leader; but while they were preparing to set out, they suddenly caught sight of a certain light shining wondrously within the woods, and, greatly amazed at what the cause of the matter might be, ran together to the place.
His rebus gestis omnes sine mora navem rursus conscenderunt, et sublatis ancoris prima vigilia solverunt; neque enim satis tutum esse arbitrati sunt in eo loco manere. At rex Aeetes, qui iam ante inimico in eos fuerat animo, ubi cognovit filiam suam non modo ad Argonautas se recepisse sed etiam ad vellus auferendum auxilium tulisse, hoc dolore gravius exarsit. Navem longam quam celerrime deduci iussit, et militibus impositis fugientis insecutus est.
Having done these things, they all without delay again boarded the ship, and with the anchors raised they put out at the first watch; for they did not judge it safe to remain in that place. But King Aeetes, who had already been hostile in mind toward them, when he learned that his daughter had not only gone over to the Argonauts but had even brought aid for carrying off the fleece, was inflamed more grievously by this sorrow. He ordered the long ship to be launched as quickly as possible, and, with soldiers placed aboard, pursued the fleeing men.
The Argonauts, who well knew that the affair was in peril, strove with all their strength at the oars; yet since the ship in which they were carried was of enormous magnitude, it could not make the same swiftness with which the Colchi could advance. Which brought it to the point that there was scarcely any distance left before they would be captured by the Colchi pursuing, for there was no farther interval than that to which a missile could be thrown. But when Medea saw in what state things were, with almost all hope laid down she took this unspeakable plan.
Erat in navi Argonautarum filius quidam regis Aeetae, nomine Absyrtus, quem, ut supra demonstravimus, Medea ex urbe fugiens secum abduxerat. Hunc puerum Medea interficere constituit eo consilio, ut membris eius in mare coniectis cursum Colchorum impediret; certo enim sciebat Aeetem, cum membra fili vidisset, non longius prosecuturum esse. Neque opinio Medeam fefellit, omnia enim ita evenerunt ut speraverat.
There was on the ship of the Argonauts a certain son of King Aeetes, named Absyrtus, whom, as we have shown above, Medea had carried off with her from the city while fleeing. Medea resolved to kill this boy with the design that, by casting his limbs into the sea, she might impede the Colchians’ pursuit; for she certainly knew that Aeetes, when he should see his son's limbs, would not pursue any farther. Nor did Medea's expectation deceive her, for all things turned out as she had hoped.
As soon as Aeetes saw the limbs, he ordered the ship to be held fast so that they might be gathered. While, however, these things were being done, the Argonauts, without ceasing the labor of rowing, soon carried themselves out of sight of the enemies, nor did they cease to flee until they reached the river Eridanus. Aeetes, judging that nothing would be to his profit if he had gone farther, returned home with his spirit cast down, to give his son's body to burial.
Tandem post multa pericula Iason in eundem locum pervenit unde profectus erat. Tum e navi egressus ad regem Peliam, qui regnum adhuc obtinebat, statim se contulit, et vellere aureo monstrato ab eo postulavit ut regnum sibi traderetur; Pelias enim pollicitus erat, si Iason vellus rettulisset, se regnum ei traditurum. Postquam Iason quid fieri vellet ostendit, Pelias primo nihil respondit, sed diu in eadem tristitia tacitus permansit; tandem ita locutus est: "Vides me aetate iam esse confectum, neque dubium est quin dies supremus mihi appropinquet.
At last, after many dangers Jason arrived at the same place from which he had set out. Then, having disembarked from the ship, he at once went to King Pelias, who still held the kingdom, and, the golden fleece having been shown, demanded from him that the kingdom be handed over to him; for Pelias had promised that if Jason had brought back the fleece, he would entrust the kingdom to him. After Jason showed what he wished to be done, Pelias at first answered nothing, but long remained silent in the same sadness; at last he spoke thus: "You see that I am already spent with age, nor is there any doubt that the final day is drawing near for me.
His rebus cognitis Medea rem aegre tulit, et regni cupiditate adducta mortem regi per dolum inferre constituit. Hoc constituto ad filias regis venit atque ita locuta est: "Videtis patrem vestrum aetate iam esse confectum neque ad laborem regnandi perferendum satis valere. Vultisne eum rursus iuvenem fieri?" Tum filiae regis ita responderunt: "Num hoc fieri potest?
When these matters were learned Medea took the thing badly, and, led by a desire for the kingdom, resolved to inflict death on the king by deceit. This having been resolved, she came to the king's daughters and thus spoke: "Do you see that your father is already worn out by age and not strong enough to endure the labors of ruling? Do you wish him to be made young again?" Then the king's daughters answered thus: "Can this be done?"
"For who ever from an old man has been made a youth?" But Medea answered: "You know that I have the highest knowledge of medicine. Now therefore I will demonstrate to you in what manner this thing can be done." When she had made an end of speaking, she slew a ram already spent with age and placed its limbs in a brazen vessel, and, a fire being set beneath, she poured certain herbs into the water. Then, while the water seethed, she sang a magical chant.
Dum filiae regis hoc miraculum stupentes intuentur, Medea ita locuta est: "Videtis quantum valeat medicina. Vos igitur, si vultis patrem vestrum in adulescentiam reducere, id quod feci ipsae facietis. Vos patris membra in vas conicite; ego herbas magicas praebebo." Quod ubi auditum est, filiae regis consilium quod dedisset Medea non omittendum putaverunt.
While the king’s daughters, astonished, gazed at this marvel, Medea spoke thus: "You see how much medicine can accomplish. Therefore you, if you wish to restore your father to youth, shall do that which I have done myself. Cast your father’s limbs into the vessel; I will provide the magical herbs." When this was heard, the king’s daughters judged that the counsel which Medea had given ought not to be neglected.
They therefore killed their father Pelias and threw his limbs into a brazen vessel; nor did they doubt that this would be of the greatest advantage to him. But matters turned out wholly otherwise than they had hoped, for Medea did not give the same herbs which she herself had used. And so, after they had long waited in vain, they understood that their father was truly dead.
But when Medea perceived what he had in mind, grievously moved by anger she by a solemn oath confirmed that she would avenge so great an injury. She therefore took this counsel. She prepared a garment woven with the utmost art and dyed in various colours; she stained this with a certain deadly poison, the force of which was such that if anyone put on that garment, his body would be burned as if by fire.
Vix vestem induerat Glauce cum dolorem gravem per omnia membra sensit, et paulo post crudeli cruciatu adfecta e vita excessit. His rebus gestis Medea furore atque amentia impulsa filios suos necavit; tum magnum sibi fore periculum arbitrata si in Thessalia maneret, ex ea regione fugere constituit. Hoc constituto solem oravit ut in tanto periculo auxilium sibi praeberet.
Scarcely had Glauce put on the garment when she felt a severe pain through all her limbs, and a little later, seized by a cruel torment, she departed life. When these things had been done, Medea, driven by fury and madness, killed her sons; then, deeming that great danger would threaten her if she remained in Thessaly, she resolved to flee from that region. Having made this resolution she prayed to the sun that he might grant her aid in so great a peril.
The sun, moved by these prayers, sent a chariot to which dragons equipped with wings were yoked. Medea, judging so great an opportunity not to be omitted, mounted the chariot, and thus borne through the air arrived safe at the city of Athens. Jason himself was shortly afterwards killed in a wondrous manner.
ULYSSES Ulysses, a famous Greek hero, took a prominent part in the long siege of Troy. After the fall of the city, he set out with his followers on his homeward voyage to Ithaca, an island of which he was king; but being driven out of his course by northerly winds, he was compelled to touch at the country of the Lotus-eaters, who are supposed to have lived on the north coast of Africa. Some of his comrades were so delighted with the lotus fruit that they wished to remain in the country, but Ulysses compelled them to embark again and continued his voyage.
ULYSSES Ulysses, a famous Greek hero, took a prominent part in the long siege of Troy. After the fall of the city, he set out with his followers on his homeward voyage to Ithaca, an island of which he was king; but being driven out of his course by northerly winds, he was compelled to touch at the country of the Lotus-eaters, who are supposed to have lived on the north coast of Africa. Some of his comrades were so delighted with the lotus fruit that they wished to remain in the country, but Ulysses compelled them to embark again and continued his voyage.
He next came to the island of Sicily, and fell into the hands of the giant Polyphemus, one of the Cyclopes. After several of his comrades had been killed by this monster, Ulysses made his escape by stratagem and reached the country of the winds. Here he received the help of Aeolus, king of the winds, and having set sail again, arrived within sight of Ithaca; but owing to the folly of his companions, the winds became suddenly adverse and he was again driven back.
He then touched at an island that was the home of Circe, a powerful enchantress who cast her spells on his companions and turned them into swine. By the aid of the god Mercury, Ulysses not only escaped this fate himself but compelled Circe to restore her victims to human form. After remaining a year with Circe, he set out again and at last reached his home.
Urbem Troiam a Graecis decem annos obsessam esse satis constat; de hoc enim bello Homerus, maximus poetarum Graecorum, Iliadem opus notissimum scripsit. Troia tandem per insidias capta, Graeci longo bello fessi domum redire maturaverunt. Omnibus rebus igitur ad profectionem paratis navis deduxerunt, et tempestatem idoneam nacti magno cum gaudio solverunt.
It is well agreed that the city of Troy was besieged by the Greeks for ten years; concerning this war Homer, the greatest of the Greek poets, wrote the very famous work the Iliad. Troy at last, having been captured by treachery, the Greeks, wearied by the long war, made haste to return home. With all things therefore prepared for departure they launched their ships, and having found a suitable season for sailing they put to sea with great joy.
Among the foremost of the Greeks was a certain Ulysses, a man of greatest virtue and prudence, whom some say contrived that very stratagem by which Troy was taken. He had held the kingdom of the island Ithaca, and shortly before he set out with the other Greeks for the war he had taken in marriage a most beautiful woman, named Penelope. Now therefore, when he had already spent about ten years as if in exile, he burned with great desire to see his native land and his wife.
Postquam tamen pauca milia passuum a litore Troiae progressi sunt, tanta tempestas subito coorta est ut nulla navium cursum tenere posset, sed aliae alias in partis disicerentur. Navis autem qua ipse Ulixes vehebatur vi tempestatis ad meridiem delata decimo die ad litus Libyae appulsa est. Ancoris iactis Ulixes constituit nonnullos e sociis in terram exponere, qui aquam ad navem referrent et qualis esset natura eius regionis cognoscerent.
After, however, they had advanced a few thousand paces from the shore of Troy, so great a tempest suddenly arose that no ship could hold its course, but some were scattered into other parts. The ship by which Ulysses himself was being carried, borne south by the force of the tempest, on the tenth day was driven to the shore of Libya. Anchors having been cast, Ulysses decided to put some of his comrades ashore, who might bring water to the ship and discover what the nature of that region was.
These men, therefore, having disembarked from the ship, prepared to do the commanded things. While, however, they sought for a spring, meeting some of the inhabitants they were received by them with hospitality. It happened moreover that the greater part of their victuals consisted of a certain wondrous fruit which they called the lotus.
Ulixes cum ab hora septima ad vesperum exspectasset, veritus ne socii sui in periculo versarentur, nonnullos e reliquis misit, ut quae causa esset morae cognoscerent. Hi igitur in terram expositi ad vicum qui non longe aberat se contulerunt; quo cum venissent, socios suos quasi vino ebrios reppererunt. Tum ubi causam veniendi docuerunt, iis persuadere conabantur ut secum ad navem redirent.
When Ulysses had waited from the seventh hour until evening, fearing that his comrades might be in danger, he sent some of the others to learn what the cause of the delay was. These, having gone ashore, made for a village not far off; and when they had come there they found their companions as it were drunk with wine. Then, after they had told the reason for their coming, they tried to persuade them to return with them to the ship.
They, however, began to resist and to defend themselves with their hands, often crying out that they would never depart from that place. When things were thus, the messengers, the mission unaccomplished, returned to Ulixes. These matters having been learned, he himself with all who had been left on the ship came to the place; and, having urged his companions in vain to return of their own accord, with their hands bound behind their backs he brought them unwillingly to the ship.
Postquam ea tota nocte remis contenderunt, postridie ad terram ignotam navem appulerunt. Tum, quod naturam eius regionis ignorabat, ipse Ulixes cum duodecim e sociis in terram egressus loca explorare constituit. Paulum a litore progressi ad speluncam ingentem pervenerunt, quam habitari senserunt; eius enim introitum et natura loci et manu munitum esse animadverterunt.
After they rowed with oars all through that night, on the next day they brought the ship to an unknown land. Then, because he did not know the nature of that region, Ulysses himself, with twelve of his companions, disembarked to explore the places. A little way from the shore they reached a huge cave, which they perceived to be inhabited; for they noticed that its entrance was fortified both by the nature of the place and by hand.
Soon, although they understood that they would do this not without peril, they entered the cave; and when they had done so they found a great store of milk kept in immense vases. While, however, they wondered who might dwell in that seat, they heard a terrible sound, and with their eyes turned toward the gate they saw a horrible monster, indeed human in species and shape, but of enormous bodily magnitude. And when they perceived that the monster had only one eye placed in the middle of its brow, they understood that this was one of the Cyclopes, of whom they had already heard report.
Graeci igitur simul ac monstrum viderunt, terrore paene exanimati in interiorem partem speluncae refugerunt et se ibi abdere conabantur. Polyphemus autem (sic enim Cyclops appellabatur) pecus suum in speluncam compulit; deinde, cum saxo ingenti portam obstruxisset, ignem in media spelunca fecit. Hoc facto, oculo omnia perlustrabat, et cum sensisset homines in interiore parte speluncae esse abditos, magna voce exclamavit: "Qui homines estis?
Therefore the Greeks, as soon as they saw the monster, almost swooning with terror, fled back into the inner part of the cave and tried to hide themselves there. Polyphemus, however (for thus the Cyclops was called), drove his flock into the cave; then, when he had blocked the door with a huge rock, he made a fire in the middle of the cave. Having done this, he scanned everything with his eye, and when he perceived that men were hidden in the inner part of the cave, he cried out in a loud voice: "Who are you men?"
"Merchants or robbers?" Then Ulysses answered that they were neither merchants nor had they come for the purpose of plundering; but, returning from Troy, they had been driven from the straight course by the violence of storms. He also begged that he might be permitted to go away without injury. Then Polyphemus asked where the ship in which they had been carried was; but Ulysses, since he well understood that he must be most on his guard, replied that his ship had been altogether broken, having been thrown upon the rocks.
Dum haec geruntur, Graecorum animos tantus terror occupavit ut ne vocem quidem edere possent, sed omni spe salutis deposita mortem praesentem exspectarent. Polyphemus, postquam fames hac tam horribili cena depulsa est, humi prostratus somno se dedit. Quod cum vidisset Ulixes, tantam occasionem rei gerendae non omittendam arbitratus, in eo erat ut pectus monstri gladio transfigeret.
While these things were happening, so great a terror seized the minds of the Greeks that they could not even utter a voice, but with all hope of salvation cast aside they awaited the present death. Polyphemus, after hunger was driven off by this so horrible meal, lay prostrate on the ground and gave himself to sleep. When Ulysses saw this, deeming such an occasion for action not to be omitted, he was about to transfix the monster’s breast with a sword.
Yet, since he judged that nothing should be done rashly, he resolved to reconnoitre how, before doing this, they might get out of the cave. But when he noticed the rock with which the entrance was blocked, he understood that it would profit him nothing if he killed Polyphemus. For so great was the size of that rock that it could not be removed even by ten men.
When these things were so, Ulysses abandoned that attempt and returned to his comrades; who, when they understood in what state matters were, with no hope of deliverance offered began to despair of their fortunes. He, however, strongly exhorted them not to lose heart; he showed that he himself had already before escaped from many great dangers, and that there was no doubt but that in so great a crisis the gods would bring help.
Orta luce Polyphemus iam e somno excitatus idem quod hesterno die fecit; correptis enim duobus e reliquis viris carnem eorum sine mora devoravit. Tum, cum saxum amovisset, ipse cum pecore suo ex spelunca progressus est; quod cum Graeci viderent, magnam in spem se post paulum evasuros venerunt. Mox tamen ab hac spe repulsi sunt; nam Polyphemus, postquam omnes oves exierunt, saxum in locum restituit.
At dawn, Polyphemus, already roused from sleep, did the same as on the previous day; for having seized two of the remaining men he devoured their flesh without delay. Then, when he had removed the rock, he himself proceeded out of the cave with his flock; which, when the Greeks saw, they came into great hope that after a little while they would escape. Soon, however, they were driven back from this hope; for Polyphemus, after all the sheep had gone out, restored the rock to its place.
The others, all hope of salvation laid aside, gave themselves over to lamentations and tears; Ulysses, however, who, as we showed above, was a man of great counsel, although he perceived the matter to be in danger, did not yet completely despair. Finally, after he considered these things long with his whole mind, he adopted this plan. From the timbers which had been stored in the cave he chose a large pole.
Sub vesperum Polyphemus ad speluncam rediit, et eodem modo quo antea cenavit. Tum Ulixes utrem vini prompsit, quem forte (id quod ei erat saluti) secum attulerat; et postquam magnum poculum vino complevit, monstrum ad bibendum provocavit. Polyphemus, qui numquam antea vinum gustaverat, totum poculum statim exhausit; quod cum fecisset, tantam voluptatem percepit ut iterum et tertium poculum repleri iusserit.
Toward evening Polyphemus returned to the cave, and dined in the same manner as before. Then Ulysses produced a wineskin, which by chance (which was for his safety) he had brought with him; and after he filled a large cup with wine, he challenged the monster to drink. Polyphemus, who had never before tasted wine, immediately drained the whole cup; and when he had done this, he felt such pleasure that he ordered the cup to be refilled a second and a third time.
Then, when he had asked by what name Ulysses was called, he answered that he was called Neminem; which when Polyphemus had heard, he spoke thus: "This, as a return to you for so great a kindness, I will repay to you; I will devour you last of all." When he had said this, heavy with food and wine he lay down and was soon overcome by sleep. Then Ulysses, having summoned his companions, said, "We have the opportunity which we sought; therefore let us not let so great an occasion for carrying out the matter slip by."
Hac oratione habita, postquam extremum palum igni calefecit, oculum Polyphemi dormientis ferventi ligno perfodit; quo facto omnes in diversas speluncae partis se abdiderunt. At ille subito illo dolore oculi e somno excitatus clamorem terribilem sustulit, et dum per speluncam errat, Ulixem manu prehendere conabatur; cum tamen iam omnino caecus esset, nullo modo hoc efficere potuit. Interea reliqui Cyclopes clamore audito undique ad speluncam convenerunt, et ad introitum adstantes quid Polyphemus ageret quaesiverunt, et quam ob causam tantum clamorem sustulisset.
With this speech made, after he had heated the extremity of the stake in the fire, he bored out the eye of sleeping Polyphemus with the hot wood; the deed done, they all hid themselves in different parts of the cave. But he, suddenly awakened from sleep by that pain of the eye, raised a terrible cry, and while wandering through the cave strove to seize Ulysses with his hand; yet since he was now altogether blind he could in no way effect this. Meanwhile the remaining Cyclopes, hearing the cry, came together from all sides to the cave, and standing at the entrance asked what Polyphemus was doing, and for what cause he had uttered so great a shout.
He answered that he had been grievously wounded and was afflicted with great pain. When, however, they afterwards asked who had inflicted the force upon him, he replied that no one had done it; these words heard, one of the Cyclopes said, "But if no one," he said, "has wounded you, there is no doubt but that by the counsel of the gods, against whom we neither can nor will resist, you are being afflicted with this punishment." When he had said this, the Cyclopes departed, having judged that he had fallen into madness.
Polyphemus ubi socios suos abiisse sensit, furore atque amentia impulsus Ulixem iterum quaerere coepit; tandem cum portam invenisset, saxum quo obstructa erat amovit, ut pecus in agros exiret. Tum ipse in introitu consedit, et ut quaeque ovis ad hunc locum venerat, eius tergum manibus tractabat, ne viri inter ovis exire possent. Quod cum animadvertisset Ulixes, intellexit omnem spem salutis in dolo magis quam in virtute poni.
When Polyphemus perceived that his companions had gone away, driven by fury and madness he began again to search for Ulysses; at last, when he had found the gate, he removed the rock by which it had been blocked, so that the flock might go out into the fields. Then he himself sat in the entrance, and as each sheep came to that spot he handled its back with his hands, so that the men could not go out among the sheep. When Ulysses observed this, he understood that all hope of safety must be placed in guile rather than in strength.
Therefore he adopted this plan. First he selected three of the fattest sheep he saw, which, when he had bound together with twigs, he placed one of his companions beneath their bellies so that he was entirely concealed; then he drove the sheep, bearing the man with them, to the gate. That occurred which he had suspected would occur.
Iis rebus ita confectis, Ulixes veritus ne Polyphemus fraudem sentiret, cum sociis quam celerrime ad litus contendit; quo cum venissent, ab iis qui navi praesidio relicti erant magna cum laetitia excepti sunt. Hi enim cum anxiis animis iam tris dies continuos reditum eorum exspectavissent, eos in aliquod periculum magnum incidisse (id quidem quod erat) suspicati, ipsi auxiliandi causa egredi parabant. Tum Ulixes non satis tutum arbitratus in eo loco manere, quam celerrime profisisci constituit.
With these matters so accomplished, Ulysses, fearing that Polyphemus might perceive the fraud, hurried with his companions to the shore as quickly as possible; and when they had come there, they were received with great joy by those who had been left as a guard of the ship. For these, with anxious minds, had already for three continuous days awaited their return, and, suspecting that they had fallen into some great danger (which indeed was the case), were preparing to put out themselves to afford aid. Then Ulysses, judging it not sufficiently safe to remain in that place, resolved to set out as rapidly as possible.
He therefore ordered everyone to board the ship, and with the anchors raised he put out a little way from the shore into the deep. Then he cried out with a loud voice: "You, Polyphemus, who scorn the laws of hospitality, have paid a just and deserved penalty for your monstrousness." At the sound of this voice Polyphemus, violently moved with anger, made for the sea, and when he perceived that the ship was a little away from the shore, he snatched up a huge rock with his hand and hurled it in the direction from which he had heard the voice. The Greeks, however, although they were not far from being submerged, suffered no harm and held their course.
Ibi rex ipse Graecos hospitio excepit, atque iis persuasit ut ad recuperandas viris paucos dies in ea regione commorarentur. Septimo die cum socii e laboribus se recepissent, Ulixes, ne anni tempore a navigatione excluderetur, sibi sine mora proficiscendum statuit. Tum Aeolus, qui sciebat Ulixem cupidissimum esse patriae videndae, ei iam profecturo magnum saccum e corio confectum dedit, in quo ventos omnis praeter unum incluserat.
There the king himself received the Greeks with hospitality, and persuaded them to remain in that region for a few days to recover their men. On the seventh day, when his companions had withdrawn from their labors, Ulysses, lest he be shut out from navigation by the season of the year, resolved that he must set out without delay. Then Aeolus, who knew that Ulysses was most eager to see his patria, gave him, as he was about to depart, a large sack made of hide, in which he had confined all the winds except one.
He had loosed only Zephyrus, for that wind is favorable to one sailing from the island Aeolia to Ithaca. Ulixes gladly accepted this gift, and, thanks having been given for so great a benefit, he fastened the sack to the mast. Then, all things being prepared for departure, at about the meridian hour he put out from the port.
Novem dies secundissimo vento cursum tenuerunt, iamque in conspectum patriae suae venerant, cum Ulixes lassitudine confectus (ipse enim gubernabat) ad quietem capiendam recubuit. At socii, qui iam dudum mirabantur quid in illo sacco inclusum esset, cum ducem somno oppressum viderent, tantam occasionem non omittendam arbitrati sunt; credebant enim aurum et argentum ibi esse celata. Itaque spe lucri adducti saccum sine mora solverunt, quo facto venti "velut agmine facto qua data porta ruunt, et terras turbine perflant."
For nine days they held their course with a most favorable wind, and now they had come into sight of their native land, when Ulysses, worn out with fatigue (for he himself was steering), lay down to take rest. But his companions, who had long been wondering what was enclosed in that sack, seeing their leader overcome by sleep, judged such an opportunity not to be missed; for they believed gold and silver to be concealed there. Therefore, driven by the hope of gain, they untied the sack without delay, and when this was done the winds "as if a line had been formed, where a gate is given, rush through, and sweep the lands with a whirlwind."
Hic tanta tempestas subito coorta est ut illi cursum tenere non possent sed in eandem partem unde erant profecti referrentur. Ulixes e somno excitatus quo in loco res esset statim intellexit; saccum solutum, Ithacam post tergum relictam vidit. Tum vero ira vehementer exarsit sociosque obiurgabat quod cupiditate pecuniae adducti spem patriae videndae proiecissent.
Here such a storm suddenly arose that they could not hold their course but were driven back into the very direction from which they had set out. Ulysses, awakened from sleep, immediately understood where matters stood; the sack having been loosed, he saw Ithaca left behind on his stern. Then indeed anger flamed up fiercely, and he rebuked his comrades because, led by a lust for money, they had thrown away the hope of seeing their native land.
Brevi spatio intermisso Graeci insulae cuidam appropinquaverunt in qua Circe, filia Solis, habitabat. Quo cum navem appulisset, Ulixes in terram frumentandi causa egrediendum esse statuit; nam cognoverat frumentum quod in navi haberent iam deficere. Sociis igitur ad se convocatis quo in loco res esset et quid fieri vellet ostendit.
In a short space of time the Greeks drew near to an island on which Circe, daughter of the Sun, dwelt. When the ship had been brought to that place, Ulysses decided that he must go ashore to obtain grain; for he had learned that the grain they had on the ship was already failing. Therefore, having called his companions to him, he showed them in what state things were and what he wished to be done.
But although all retained in memory how by a cruel death those who had recently gone forth from the ship had been killed, no one was found who wished to undertake this business. Since matters were thus, the question was brought to debate. At last Ulysses, with the consent of all, divided the companions into two parts, of which Eurylochus, a man of highest virtue, was to preside over one, and he himself over the other.
His rebus ita constitutis ii qui sortiti erant in interiorem partem insulae profecti sunt. Tantus tamen timor animos eorum occupaverat ut nihil dubitarent quin morti obviam irent. Vix quidem poterant ii qui in navi relicti erant lacrimas tenere; credebant enim se socios suos numquam post hoc tempus visuros.
With these matters thus arranged, those who had drawn lots set out for the inner part of the island. So great, however, a fear had seized their minds that they doubted nothing but that they would meet death. Scarcely, indeed, could those who had been left on the ship hold back their tears; for they believed that they would never see their companions after this time.
They, however, having advanced some distance on their journey, arrived at a certain villa built with the utmost magnificence; and when they had approached its door, they heard a most sweet song. So great indeed was the sweetness of her voice that in no way could they be kept from knocking at the door. This done, Circe herself came out, and with the greatest benignity invited everyone into her hospitium.
Eurylochus, suspecting that a plot was being prepared against him, decided to wait outside, but the rest, drawn by the novelty of the matter, entered. They found a magnificent supper provided with everything and, at the mistress’s command, very gladly reclined. But Circe had mixed into the wine which the servants set a certain drug; which, when the Greeks had drunk, they were suddenly overcome by a deep sleep.
Tum Circe, quae artis magicae summam scientiam habebat, baculo aureo quod gerebat capita eorum tetigit; quo facto omnes in porcos subito conversi sunt. Interea Eurylochus ignarus quid in aedibus ageretur ad ostium sedebat; postquam tamen ad solis occasum anxio animo et sollicito exspectavit, solus ad navem regredi constituit. Eo cum venisset, sollicitudine ac timore tam perturbatus fuit ut quae vidisset vix dilucide narrare posset.
Then Circe, who had the highest knowledge of the magical art, touched their heads with the golden staff which she bore; this done, all were suddenly transformed into pigs. Meanwhile Eurylochus, ignorant of what was happening in the house, sat at the doorway; yet after he had waited with anxious and troubled mind until the sun's setting, he resolved to return alone to the ship. When he had come there, he was so shaken by anxiety and fear that he could scarcely relate clearly what he had seen.
Ulysses, however, perceived well enough that his comrades were in peril, and, seizing a sword, commanded Eurylochus to show the way to that house without delay. He, however, having embraced Ulysses with many tears, began to beg him not to commit himself to so great a danger; if anything graver should befall him, the safety of all would be placed in the utmost jeopardy. Ulysses replied that he would bring no one unwilling with him; that it was permitted to him, if he preferred, to remain on the ship; he himself would undertake the matter without any guard.
Aliquantum itineris progressus ad villam magnificam pervenit, quam cum oculis perlustrasset, statim intrare statuit; intellexit enim hanc esse eandem domum de qua Eurylochus mentionem fecisset. At cum in eo esset ut limen intraret, subito ei obviam stetit adulescens forma pulcherrima aureum baculum gerens. Hic Ulixem iam domum intrantem manu corripuit et, "Quo ruis?" inquit.
Having advanced some distance on the journey he came to a magnificent villa, which, when he surveyed with his eyes, he at once resolved to enter; for he understood that this was the same house of which Eurylochus had made mention. But as he was about to cross the threshold, suddenly a youth of very beautiful form bearing a golden staff stood before him. This youth seized Ulysses by the hand as he was entering the house and said, "Whither do you rush?"
"Do you not know that this is Circe's house? Here your friends are shut up, changed from the human kind into pigs. Do you yourself wish to come into the same calamity?" As soon as Ulysses heard the voice, he recognized the god Mercury; nevertheless he could not be deterred from his settled purpose by any prayers.
When Mercury perceived this, he gave him a certain herb, which he said was very powerful against spells. "Take this," he said, "and when Circe touches you with her staff, see that you make an attack upon her with your drawn sword." After Mercury had finished speaking, he abandoned his mortal guise in the middle of his speech, and from afar vanished from sight into a thin breeze.
Soon, when hunger had been driven away by food, Circe gave Ulysses a golden cup filled with wine. Although he suspected that poison had been prepared for him, he drained the cup; after this was done, when Circe touched his head with a staff, she spoke those words by which she had previously turned his companions into swine. The matter, however, turned out altogether otherwise than she had hoped.
For so great was the power of the herb which Mercury had given to Ulysses that neither the poison nor the words could have any effect. Ulysses, however, as he had been instructed, with his sword drawn made an attack upon her and threatened death. When Circe perceived that her art prevailed nothing, she began with many tears to beseech him not to take her life.
Ulixes autem ubi sensit eam timore perterritam esse, postulavit ut socios suos sine mora in humanam speciem reduceret (certior enim factus erat a deo Mercurio eos in porcos conversos esse); nisi id factum esset, se debitas poenas sumpturum ostendit. Circe his rebus graviter commota ei ad pedes se proiecit, et multis cum lacrimis iure iurando confirmavit se quae ille imperasset omnia facturam. Tum porcos in atrium immitti iussit.
But when Ulixes perceived that she was frightened through fear, he demanded that she without delay restore his comrades to human form (for he had been made certain by the god Mercury that they had been turned into pigs); unless this were done, he declared he would suffer the due penalties. Circe, deeply moved by these things, threw herself at his feet, and with many tears, swearing by oath, affirmed that she would do all that he had commanded. Then she ordered the pigs to be sent into the atrium.
At the given signal they rushed in, and when they had recognized their leader they were seized with great sorrow because in no way could they inform him of their affairs. Circe, however, anointed their bodies with a certain unguent; when this was done all were immediately restored to human form. With great joy Ulysses recognized his friends, and sent a messenger to the shore to tell the remaining Greeks that their comrades had been received.
Postridie eius diei Ulixes ex hac insula quam celerrime discedere in animo habebat. Circe tamen cum haec cognovisset, ex odio ad amorem conversa omnibus precibus eum orare et obtestari coepit ut paucos dies apud se moraretur; qua re tandem impetrata tanta beneficia in eum contulit ut facile ei persuasum sit ut diutius maneret. Postquam tamen totum annum apud Circen consumpserat, Ulixes magno desiderio patriae suae motus est.
On the day after that day Ulysses intended to depart from this island as swiftly as possible. Circe, however, when she learned these things, her hatred turned to love and she began to beg and entreat him with all prayers that he remain a few days with her; and at last, having obtained this, she bestowed such great favors upon him that he was easily persuaded to stay longer. Yet after he had spent a whole year with Circe, Ulysses was moved by a great longing for his native land.
Therefore, having summoned his allies to him, he revealed what he had in mind. When, however, he went down to the shore, he found his ship so battered by storms that it was almost useless for sailing. This matter having been learned, he ordered that all things useful for repairing the ship be procured, and in this business everyone showed such diligence that they completed the work before the third day.
When Circe saw that everything was prepared for departure, she bore it ill and vehemently entreated Ulysses to abandon that plan. He, however, so that he would not be shut out from navigation by the season of the year, judged that he must hasten, and having obtained a suitable wind he put his ship to sea. Many dangers indeed had to be undergone by Ulysses before he reached his homeland, which, however, it would be long to relate in this place.