Translation copyright 1999 Celia Luschnig; all rights reserved. Please also see the Notes to these fragments.
1. From the Scholia to Euripides’ Medea, ad 666
Neophron says that Aigeus came to Corinth to see Medea so that she would interpret the oracle for him, writing as follows:
I myself came in fact to learn a solution
from you. Since I am unable to make sense of
the Pythian oracle which Phoebus’ prophetess pronounced to me.
Speaking with you, I was hoping that I would comprehend it.
2. From Stobaeus, Flor. xx.34
Well. What will you do, [my] spirit? Make your plans well
before doing wrong and making the dearest things most hateful.
Where in the world have you rushed madly, wretched one?
Prevail over your temper and god-hated strength.
And why do I lament these things, seeing
my soul alone and abandoned
by those who ought least to do it? But am I becoming
soft from suffering such evils?
You will not betray yourself, my spirit, in your troubles.
Ah me. It is decided. Children, leave
my sight. For now a murderous madness
has descended upon my great spirit. Oh hands, hands,
to such a deed we arm ourselves. Alas,
unhappy for my boldness. Truly I go to destroy
my long labor in the briefest time.
3. From the Scholia to Euripides’ Medea, ad 1386
Neophron says that [Jason] died in a rather bizarre way, by hanging. The poet puts Medea on stage, saying to him:
In the end you will do away with yourself in a most shameful death
drawing a noose for hanging about your neck.
Such a destiny awaits you for your evil deeds,
instruction to others for countless days
telling mortals never to exalt themselves above the gods.
Please also see the Notes to these fragments.
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