EURIPIDES
But there, however, I must leave that account paid. 790
I weep to think of what a deed I have to do
Next after that; for I shall kill my own children.
My children, there is none who can give them safety.
And when I have ruined the whole of Jason's house,
I shall leave the land and flee from the murder of my 795
Dear children, and I shall have done a dreadful deed.
For it is not bearable to be mocked by enemies.
So it must happen. What profit have I in life?
I have no land, no home, no refuge from my pain.
My mistake was made the time I left behind me 800
My father's house, and trusted the words of a Greek,
Who, with heaven's help, will pay me the price for that.
For those children he had from me he will never
See alive again, nor will he on his new bride
Beget another child, for she is to be forced 805
To die a most terrible death by these my poisons.
Let no one think me a weak one, feeble-spirited,
A stay-at-home, but rather just the opposite,
One who can hurt my enemies and help my friends;
For the lives of such persons are most remembered. 810
Chorus
Since you have shared the knowledge of your plan
with us,
I both wish to help you and support the normal
Ways of mankind, and tell you not to do this thing.
Medea
I can do no other thing. It is understandable
For you to speak thus. You have not suffered as I have. 815
Chorus
But can you have the heart to kill your flesh and blood?
Medea
Yes, for this is the best way to wound my husband.
100