And next, that we must needs be patient,
Submitting to the stronger, and obey,
However harsh, all mandates of the King.
For my part, then, entreating those below
To pardon, forasmuch as I am forced,
I shall obey the ruler; for, to be
Unduly active, sister, is not wise.
Antigone. I shall not urge thee. Nay, more—e’en if thou
Shouldst seek to render active aid to me,
Unwelcome now as my ally thou ’lt come.
Do thou, be thou, as seemeth good; but I
Shall bury him: thus glorious shall I die.
Belovéd, I shall lie with him beloved,
My crime against the State a pious deed.
For longer those in Hades must I please
Below than those in life, since yonder world
Will always be my home. But if thou wilt,
Do thou the laws that gods in honor hold,
Dishonor.
Ismene. Dishonor them I do not.
But brave the State—I have no strength for that.
Antigone. Have this for thy excuse!—I, then; shall go
And make a tomb for my belovéd brother.
Ismene. Unhappy. sister! Oh, how I fear for thee!
Antigone. Fear not for me, Direct thy course aright.
Ismene. Well, then, divulge, at least, thy plan to none;
Keep it securely hid, and so shall I.
Antigone. For shame! Nay, tell it loud to all the world!
Far greater foe thou ’lt be, if thou dost not.
Ismene. A fiery heart for chilling deeds hast thou.
Antigone. I know that I but please whom I should please.
Ismene. Thou hast the will, but not the strength, perchance.
Antigone. Well, when my strength gives way, the end will come.
Ismene. One should not e’en pursue a hopeless quest.
