Chorus
Let us honor Bacchus with the dance, let us raise a shout for what has befallen Pentheus, descendant of the serpent, who assumed female attire and the wand, the beautiful thyrsos—certain death—and a bull was the leader of his calamity. Kadmean Bacchae, you have accomplished a glorious victory, but one that brings woe and tears. It is a noble contest to cover one’s dripping hands with the blood of one’s own son.
Chorus Leader
But, for I see Pentheus’ mother Agave coming home, her eyes contorted, receive the revel of the god of joy!
Agave Asian Bacchae—
Chorus Why do you excite me, oh?
Agave I am bringing home from the mountain a freshly cut tendril to the house, blessed prey.
Chorus I see it and will accept you as a fellow reveler.
Agave I caught this young wild lion cub without snares, as you can see.
Chorus From what desert?
Agave Kithairon—
Chorus Kithairon?
Agave Slew him.
Chorus Who struck him?
Agave The honor is mine first. I am called blessed Agave in the revels.
Chorus Who else?
Agave Kadmos’—
Chorus Kadmos’ what?
Agave His other offspring took hold of this beast after me, after me. This is a lucky catch!
Chorus […]
Agave Share in the feast then.
Chorus What? I share in the feast, wretched woman?
Agave The bull is young; his cheek is just growing downy under his soft-haired crest.
Chorus Yes, his hair looks like a wild beast’s.
Agave Bacchus, a wise huntsman, wisely set the Maenads against this beast.
Chorus Our lord is a hunter.
Agave Do you praise me?
Chorus I praise you.
Agave Soon the Kadmeans—
Chorus And your son Pentheus, too—
Agave Will praise his mother who has caught this lion-like prey.
Chorus Extraordinary.
Agave And extraordinarily caught.
Chorus Are you proud?
Agave I am delighted, for I have performed great—yes, great—and notable deeds on this hunt.
Chorus Leader
Now show the citizens, wretched woman, the booty which you have brought in victory.
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