Stasimon 6
[Choral 4]
It was with bad luck that we encountered Ionia’s mariners. Unfortunate in war, indeed, is Persia’s race.
[Choral 5]
How true it is. In the loss of so great an army
Xerxes
I have indeed been dealt a blow, wretched as I am.
1015
Chorus
What that belonged to Persia, unfortunate one, has not been destroyed?
Xerxes
Do you see this remnant of my royal robe?
Xerxes
And this quiver—
1020
Chorus
What is this you say has been saved?
Xerxes
Treasury for shafts?
Chorus
Truly a small remnant from an ample store.
Xerxes
We have been deprived of defenders.
Chorus
Ionia’s people shrink not from the spear.
1025
Xerxes
They are a war-like people. I have lived to behold a calamity I never expected.
Chorus
Are you speaking of the routed multitude which manned your ships?
Xerxes
And I rent my robe at the disastrous event.
1030
Xerxes
No, far worse than alas.
Chorus
Yes, for twofold and threefold—
Xerxes
Pain to us, but exultation to our enemies
Chorus
Yes, and our strength has been maimed.
1035
Xerxes
I am stripped of my escort.
Chorus
By the disasters of your comrades upon the sea.
[Choral 6]
Weep, weep over our calamity, and depart to your homes.
Chorus
Alas, alas, woe, woe!
Xerxes
Cry aloud now in response to me.
1040
Chorus
A wretched offering from the wretched to the wretched.
Xerxes
Cry out, tuning your strain to mine.
Chorus
Oh, oh! That which has happened is grievous indeed.
Alas, for I too share in your sorrow.
1045
Xerxes
Strike, strike, and groan for my sake.
