Epeisodion 4
Theseus
I know one thing only: they tell me he asks to speak briefly with you, a thing of no great burden.
Oedipus
On what topic? That suppliant state is of no small account.
Theseus
He asks, they say, no more than that he may confer with you,
and return unharmed from his journey here.
1165
Oedipus
Who can he be that implores the god in this way?
Theseus
Consider whether there is anyone in your race at Argos, who might desire this favor from you.
Oedipus
Dearest friend, say no more!
Oedipus
Do not ask me for—
1170
Theseus
For what? Speak!
1170
Oedipus
From hearing these things I know who the suppliant is.
Theseus
And who can he be, that I should have an objection to him?
Oedipus
My son, lord, a hated son whose words would vex my ear like the words of no man besides.
Theseus
What? Can you not listen, without doing what you do not wish to do? Why does it pain you to hear him?
1175
Oedipus
Lord, that voice has become most hateful to his father. Do not constrain me to yield in this.
Theseus
But consider whether his suppliant state constrains you;
what if you have a duty of respect for the god?
1180
Antigone
Father, listen to me; I will offer counsel though I am young. Allow this man here to gratify his own feelings and the god as he wishes, and for your daughters’ sake allow our brother to come.
He will not tear you by force from your resolve—never fear—with such words as will not be for your good. What harm can there be in listening to words? Deeds wickedly devised, as you know, are betrayed by speech. You sired him,
1185
so, even if he wrongs you with the most impious of wrongs, father, it is not right for you to wrong him in return. Let him come! Other men too have evil offspring and a sharp anger, but they hear advice and are charmed from their mood by the gentle spells of friends.
1190
Look to the past, away from the present; consider all the pains that you have suffered through your father and mother. If you consider those things, I know well that you will perceive that what results from an evil anger is evil. Your reasons to reflect on this are not trivial,
1195
bereft of your unseeing eyes. Yield to us! It is not a fine thing for those seeking justice to keep asking; nor is it good that a man should be treated well, and thereafter not know how to requite it.
1200
Oedipus
My child, by your pleading you overcome me; but your pleasure here is my grief.
Still, let it be as is dear to you. Only, if that man is to come here, stranger, let no one ever become master over my soul.
1205
Theseus
Once only do I need hear such words, and no more, old man. I do not want to boast,
but you may feel sure that your life is safe, while any of the gods preserves mine. Theseus exits.
1210
