by Poe · Cluster: Swords and Weapons · Power and Corruption · Tyrant
Abstract
Translation from the Greek celebrating the tyrant-slayers of Athens, glorifying liberty, heroism, and the deathless fame of avengers.
Connections
Topoi: Immortality Through Verse Archetypes: Rebel, Avenger Motifs: Swords and Weapons, Blood, Flowers Themes & Concepts: Heroism, Immortality, Honour, Power and Corruption Forms & Genres: Hymn, Ode Historical References: Ancient Greece, Greek Mythology Settings: Ancient Greece (2)
Testo integrale / Full text
Translation from the Greek
I
Wreathed in myrtle, my sword I’ll conceal
Like those champions devoted and brave,
When they plunged in the tyrant their steel,
And to Athens deliverance gave.
II
Beloved heroes! your deathless souls roam
In the joy breathing isles of the blest;
Where the mighty of old have their home
Where Achilles and Diomed rest
III
In fresh myrtle my blade I’ll entwine,
Like Harmodius, the gallant and good,
When he made at the tutelar shrine
A libation of Tyranny’s blood.
IV
Ye deliverers of Athens from shame!
Ye avengers of Liberty’s wrongs!
Endless ages shall cherish your fame,
Embalmed in their echoing songs!
1827.