HOMER: "ILIAD": BOOK XXIII: FUNERAL GAMES FOR PATROCLUS.
Introduction:
After the laments for Hector in Troy, the story returns to the Greek camp. where the body of Patroclus still awaits burial, as Achilles had refused to arrange for this until he had captured the body and arms of Hector, Patroclus' killer. The Book, long though it is, falls into two parts: a) the funeral rites (ll. 1-257); and b) the funeral games (ll. 257-897).
Ll. 1-34. Achilles mourns Patroclus once more.
Thus did they make lamentations throughout the city; but the Achaeans, when they came to the ships and the Hellespont, scattered each man to his own ship, but Achilles would not allow the Myrmidons to be dispersed, but he spoke to his warlike companions, (saying): "(You) Myrmidons with your swift steeds, (you who are) my trusty comrades, let us not yet unyoke our single-hooved horses from their carriages, but let us go nearer to the horses and their chariots and mourn Patroclus; for that is the privilege of the dead. Then, when we have had our fill of dire lamentation, we shall unyoke our horses and sup here, all of us."
So he spoke, and they wailed aloud in a throng, and Achilles was their leader. Three times did they drive their steeds with flowing manes around the corpse in their sorrow; and among them Thetis aroused the desire of wailing. Wetted were the sands (of the sea-shore), and wetted was the armour of the men with their tears; for such a deviser of rout did they yearn for. And the son of Peleus led them in their loud lamentation, laying his man-slaying hands on the breast of his companion: "I bid you farewell, O Patroclus, even in the house of Hades; for now I am bringing to fulfilment all that I previously promised, that I would drag Hector here, and give (him) to the dogs to be devoured raw, and that before your pyre I would cut the throats of twelve glorious sons of the Trojans, in my wrath at you being slain."
So he spoke, and he devised foul treatment for godlike Hector, stretching him face downwards in the dust before the bier of the son of Menoetius (i.e. Patroclus); and they took off, each one (of them), their sparkling armour of bronze, and loosed their loud-neighing horses, and they sat down in their multitudes beside the ship of the swift-footed descendant of Aeacus (i.e. Achilles); then he feasted them with a plentiful banquet. Many sleek bulls quivered around the knife as they were slaughtered, and many sheep and bleating goats as well; and many white-tusked swine, rich with fat, were stretched to singe over the flame of Hephaestus; and blood flowed in cupfuls everywhere around the corpse.
Ll. 35-53. Achilles refuses to wash himself, until he has laid the body of Patroclus on the funeral pyre.
But the chiefs of the Achaeans led him, the swift-footed son of Peleus, to (the hut of) godlike Agamemnon, although he was scarcely open to persuasion, so angry at heart (was he) for his comrade. But when, as they went, they came to the hut of Agamemnon, forthwith did they bid the clear-voiced heralds set a great cauldron upon the fire, (to see) if they might persuade the son of Peleus to wash the bloody gore from (his body). But he firmly refused, and, in addition, he swore an oath: "No, by Zeus, the one who is the highest and the best of the gods, it may be that water should not come to be laid down near my head, until I have laid Patroclus on the fire and have heaped up a funeral mound and shorn my hair, since no second grief shall thus reach my heart, so long as I abide among the living. But now let us surely yield to the accursed need for food; but, in the morning, Agamemnon, king of men, encourage your (troops) to bring wood and to gather everything fitting for a dead man to have when he goes beneath the murky darkness, so that the tireless fire may soon burn him from our sight, and the host may take on his tasks."
Ll. 54-92. Patroclus visits Achilles in a dream.
So he spoke, and they readily heard him and obeyed. Then did they sup, each man eagerly preparing his meal, nor did their hearts lack anything of the equal feast. But, when they had satisfied their desire for food and drink, they went, each (man), to his hut to lie down, but the son of Peleus lay on the shore of the loud-roaring sea, groaning heavily, amid a host of Myrmidons in an open space, where the waves broke upon the shore; when sleep took hold of him, loosening the cares of his heart, and shedding (them) sweetly around (him); for sore weary (were) his glorious limbs, as he sped after Hector towards windy Ilium; then, there came to him the spirit of unhappy Patroclus, like (the man) himself in all things, in stature, and fair eyes and voice, and in like raiment was he clad around the body; then, he stood above his head and spoke these words to him: "You sleep, and you have forgotten me, Achilles. You were not unmindful of me, (when I was) alive, but in my death; bury me as soon as possible, so that I should pass right through the gates of Hades. The spirits keep the phantoms of men of toil far away from me, nor yet do they allow me to join myself to (them) beyond the river, but vainly do I wander through the wide-gated house of Hades. Now, give me your hand, I entreat (you), for never again shall I come back from Hades, when you have allotted me my (portion of) fire. For never in our planning shall we, the living, sit down apart from our comrades and take counsel together, but loathsome fate has gaped round me, (the fate) which was allotted (to me), even at my birth; and you, yourself, Achilles, like unto the gods, fate will also destroy beneath the wall of the wealthy Trojans. But another (thing) will I ask and say to you, if you are willing: do not lay my bones apart from yours, Achilles, but (let them lie) together, just as we were reared in your house, when Menoetius brought me to your house from Opoeis, when I was a child, on account of grievous manslaying, on the day when I foolishly slew the son of Amphidamus against my will in my wrath over dice. Then, the horseman Peleus received me into his house, and reared (me) in a kindly manner, and he named (me) as your squire; and so let one and the same coffer enfold the bones of the two of us, that large golden jar, which your queenly mother (i.e. Thetis) gave you."
Ll. 93-137. The building of Patroclus' funeral pyre.
Then, swift-footed Achilles spoke to him (i.e. the phantom of Patroclus) in reply: "Why, pray, have you come here, my trusty head, and enjoined upon me each one of these things? But I shall really fulfil all these things and I shall obey you as you command. But I bid you (come and) stand nearer; though (it may be) for a little time, let us clasp one another (in our arms), and take our fill of dire lamentation."
So saying, he stretched out his hands; yet he did not grasp hold (of him); but the spirit, like smoke, went gibbering beneath the earth; but, in his amazement, Achilles leapt up, and smote his hands together and spoke these words of lamentation: "Alas, so now the spirit and the phantom are to some extent even in the house of Hades, but the mind (is) not wholly within (it); for all night long. the spirit of hapless Patroclus has stood over me, both weeping and wailing, and has enjoined each thing upon me, and he was wondrously like his very self."
So he spoke, and aroused in them all the desire to lament; then, rosy-fingered Dawn appeared to them as they were trickling around the pitiful corpse. But the lord Agamemnon prompted mules and men to fetch wood from the huts on all sides; and a valorous man watched over (them), (namely) Meriones, squire of manly Idomeneus. And they went out, holding wood-cutting axes and well woven ropes in their hands, and before them went the mules. And ever uphill, downhill, sideways and aslant (i.e. diagonally) did they go; but, when they reached the slopes of many-fountained Ida, they urged (them) to cut the oak-trees with their lofty foliage with long-pointed bronze; and the trees kept falling with a great crash; then, the Achaeans divided up the (branches) and bound (them) behind the mules; and they measured the ground with their feet, as they made for the plain through the thick undergrowth. And all the wood-cutters were bearing logs; for so had Meriones, the squire of manly Idomeneus, bidden (them). And, one after another, they cast (them) down on the shore, (at the place) where Achilles had planned a great barrow for Patroclus and for himself.
But, when on all sides they had cast down the unspeakably great (blocks of) wood, there they sat down and stayed there in a throng. And straightway Achilles told the war-loving Myrmidons to gird themselves around with bronze, and each man to yoke his horses beneath his chariots; and they arose and put on their armour, and mounted their chariots, warriors and charioteers (alike), and those in the chariots came first, and after them there followed a cloud of footmen beyond counting; and his comrades bore Patroclus in their midst. And they wrapped the whole of his corpse with their hair, which they had cut off and cast down on (it). And behind (them) godlike Achilles clasped its head in sorrow; for peerless (was) the comrade he was sending to Hades.
Ll. 138-160. Achilles bestows on Patroclus a lock of his own hair.
But, when they came to the place that Achilles had shown them, they laid down (the body) and quickly piled up enough wood. Then again, the swift-footed godlike Achilles thought of (something) else: he stood far away from the fire, and tore off a golden lock of hair, which he had grown long in honour of the river Sperchius; then, deeply moved, he spoke, as he looked out over the wine-dark sea: "Sperchius, my father Peleus did vainly vow to you, that, if I returned here to my native-land, I would cut my hair for you, and offer a sacred hecatomb, and there would I sacrifice fifty male sheep in your running waters, where is your official domain and your fragrant altar. So vowed the old man, but you did not fulfil his desire. And now, since I am not returning to my native-land, I wish to bestow this lock of hair on the warrior Patroclus to take (with him)."
So he spoke, and he placed the lock of hair in the hands of his beloved comrade, and he aroused the desire to lament in all of them. And now the light of the sun would have gone down on their weeping, if Achilles had not speedily come up to Agamemnon and said: "Son of Atreus, for the host of the Achaeans will especially give heed to your words, one can have enough of lamentation, but for now let me disperse them from the pyre, and tell (them) to prepare their meal; but here we will manage the things, to which the dead (man) is especially closely connected; and we who (are) the leaders are also standing by."
Ll. 161-191. Achilles prepares the body of Patroclus for burial.
But, when Agamemnon, the king of men, heard this, he forthwith dispersed the host amid the well-balanced ships, but the mourners remained there and heaped up the wood, and made a pyre a hundred feet square, and, sad at heart, they placed the corpse on the top of the pyre; and many sturdy sheep and shambling cattle rolling in their gait they skinned and dressed before the pyre; and great-hearted Achilles gathered the fat from all (of them) and enveloped the corpse from head to foot, and heaped flayed bodies around (him). And on it he placed two-handled jars of honey and oil, leaning them against the bier; and he hurriedly threw four horses with arched necks on the pyre, while groaning loudly. Of the nine dogs that had been fed at the table by the prince (i.e. Patroclus) he cut the throats of two of them, and cast (them) on the pyre, and twelve valiant sons of the great-hearted Trojans he slew with the bronze; and grim (were) the deeds he devised in his heart, and on (them) he set the iron force of the fire, so that (the flames) would spread. Then, he uttered a groan, and called upon his beloved companion by name: "Hail, I bid you, O Patroclus, even in the house of Hades; for now I am fulfilling all (the things) which I promised you previously: twelve valiant sons of the great-hearted Trojans, all of these the fire is devouring together with you, but in no way will I give Hector, the son of Priam, to the fire to feed upon, but to the dogs."
So he spoke in a threatening voice; yet no dogs paid attention to him (i.e. Hector), but Zeus' daughter, Aphrodite, kept the dogs away from him by day and by night, and she anointed him with rose-sweet ambrosial oil, so that he might not tear his (body) as he dragged (him). And over him Phoebus Apollo brought a dark cloud from heaven to the plain, and covered all of the place where the dead man lay, lest the might of the sun should ever shrivel his flesh all around in his sinews and limbs.
Ll. 192-225. Iris begs Boreas and Zephyrus to blow on the pyre.
But the pyre of the dead Patroclus did not burn; then again did the swift-footed Achilles think of (something) else; standing apart from the pyre, he prayed to the two winds, to Boreas (i.e. the North Wind) and to Zephyrus (i.e. the West Wind), and promised (them) fair offerings; and, as he poured his libations from a golden cup, he earnestly besought them to come, so that the corpses should speedily blaze with fire, and the wood should start to burn. And Iris (i.e. the messenger of the Olympian gods) speedily heard his prayer, and went to the winds as his messenger. Within (the house of) the stormy Zephyrus, they were feasting all together at the banquet; and Iris stopped her running on the threshold of stone; and, when they beheld (her) with their eyes, they all sprang up, and called (her), (each) one to himself. But there she refused to sit down, and spoke these words: "This is no (time) to sit down; for I must go back to the streams of Oceanus, to the land of the Ethiopians, where they are sacrificing hecatombs to the immortals, so that I too may share in their sacrificial feast. But Achilles is begging (you) Boreas and noisy Zephyrus to come, and promises (you) fair offerings, so that you may cause the pyre to burn, on which lies Patroclus, (he) for whom all the Achaeans groan aloud."
So speaking she (i.e. Iris) went her way, and they arose with a wondrous noise, driving the clouds before (them). And, swiftly, they came to the sea to blow, and the wave swelled below the shrill blast; and they came to fertile Troy, and fell upon the pyre, and the wondrous fire roared mightily. And so all night long the flames beat upon the pyre together, blowing in a shrill manner, and all night long the swift Achilles, taking a two-handled cup (in his hand), drew wine from a golden bowl and poured (it) on the ground, and he wetted the earth, calling upon the spirit of the hapless Patroclus. And, as a father bewails his newly-wed son as he burns his bones, (a son) whose death has brought woe to his hapless parents, so Achilles bewailed his comrade as he burned his bones, dragging himself around the pyre, groaning vehemently.
Ll. 226-261. The funeral mound.
But at the time when the Morning Star goes forth to proclaim light over (the face of) the earth, (the star), with which saffron-robed Dawn spreads herself over the sea, then was the funeral pyre quenched, and the flame died down. And the winds went back again and returned to their home over the Thracian sea, and it roared and seethed in its swell. Then, the son of Peleus withdrew from the pyre to another place, and lay down exhausted, and sweet sleep rushed upon him. But those (who were) with the son of Atreus (i.e. Agamemnon) gathered in a throng; the noise and the din of their coming aroused him, and he sat up straight and spoke these words to them: "Son of Atreus, and (you) other chiefs of all the Achaeans, firstly do you quench the whole of the pyre with flaming wine, as much as the might of the fire has come upon (it); and, then, let us gather the bones of Patroclus, son of Menoetius, well distinguishing (them from the rest); and they may be clearly discerned; for he lay in the midst of the pyre, while the others burned separately on the edge, horses and men mingled together. Then, let us put them in a golden urn in a fold of fat, until I myself shall be shrouded in Hades. But no huge mound do I bid (you) toil to build, but just one of a reasonable size; but later on may you Achaeans build it broad and high, (those of you) who by surviving me shall be left amid the well-benched ships."
So he spoke, and they obeyed the swift-footed son of Peleus. Firstly, they quenched the pyre with flaming wine, as far as the flame had come upon (it), and the ash had settled deep; and, weeping, they gathered up the white bones into a golden urn and in a fold of fat, and, placing it in the hut, they covered (it) with a fine linen-cloth; and they marked out the barrow and put forward the foundations (of stones) around the pyre, and forthwith they piled up the piled-up earth, and, when they had piled up the barrow, back they went again. But, at this point, Achilles stopped the host, and made (them) sit in a wide gathering, and brought forth prizes from his ships - cauldrons and tripods, and horses and mules, and sturdy-headed oxen, and well-girdled women and grey iron.
Ll. 262-286. Achilles sets forth the prizes to be awarded in Patroclus' funeral games
Firstly, for the swift charioteers he set out the splendid prizes for the winner to take, a woman skilled in excellent handiwork, and a tripod with twenty-two handles; and besides for the second (prize) he produced a six-year old mare, untamed and pregnant with a mule foal; now for the third one he put down a fine cauldron, untouched by fire, and with its new brightness still on it, and for the fourth (one) he put down two talents of gold, and for the fifth he put down a two-handled urn untouched by fire. Then, he stood up straight and spoke these words among the Argives: "Son of Atreus, and (you) other well-greaved Achaeans, these prizes are lying in your assembly awaiting the charioteers. If (we) Achaeans were now holding these games in honour of another man, I would certainly take the first prize and carry it off to my hut: for you know how far my horses excel all others in their prowess; for they are immortal, and Poseidon gave them to my father Peleus, and he handed them down to me. But I and my solid-hooved horses will certainly remain here; for they have lost their noble and glorious charioteer, that gentle (man) who would so often pour olive-oil over their manes, after washing them in clear water. So there thy stand, grieving for him, and their manes are trailing on the ground, and there they stand with sorrow in their heart. But the rest (of you) should put the camp in order, (that is) any Achaean who can rely on his horses and well-fastened chariot."
Ll. 287-318. The horses in the race.
So spoke the son of Peleus, and the charioteers quickly arose. Admetus' dear son, Eumelus, the king of men, was by far the first to arise, (he) who excelled in horsemanship. And Tydeus' son, strong Diomedes, arose after him, and he brought the Trojan horses under the yoke, (those) which he had once taken from Aeneas, although Apollo had rescued him. And after him arose the fair-haired Menelaus, the Zeus-born son of Atreus, and he brought some speedy horses under the yoke, Aithe, the mare of Agamemnon, and his own Podargus; Echepolous, the son of Anchises, had given her to Agamemnon (as) a gift, so that he did not have to follow him to windy Ilium, but he could remain at home and enjoy himself, for Zeus had given him great wealth and he dwelt in spacious Sicyon; so he (i.e. Menelaus) led her under the yoke, and she was greatly yearning for the race. And the fourth (man) to harness his horses with their flowing manes, (was) Antilochus, the splendid son of the high-spirited lord Nestor, son of Neleus; and the swift-footed horses (that) pulled his chariot (were) of Pylian (stock). And his father came up close to him, and gave good advice to one who could also think in a thoughtful manner for himself: "Antilochus, young though you certainly are, both Zeus and Poseidon have befriended (you), and taught (you) everyone of the skills of horsemanship; and so (there is) no great need (for me) to instruct you; for you well know how to wheel around the turning points; but your horses run the slowest; and, therefore, I expect the worst will happen. The horses of the (others) are quicker, but (the drivers) themselves know no more than you yourself (do) about how to bring things about. But come now, my friend, make use of every kind of skill in your mind, so that the prize does not elude you. You know there is skill much more than strength (involved) in felling timber; and again (it is) by skill that the helmsman directs his swift ship over the wine-dark sea, even though it is buffeted by the winds; and (it is) by skill that a charioteer prevails over a charioteer.
Ll. 319-350. Nestor advises his son Antilochus.
"The one who foolishly relies on his horses and chariot goes round this way and that in a wide circle, and his horses wander around the course without direction; but (the man) who has cunning, even though he is driving inferior horses, always keeps his eye on the turning point and turns tightly, nor does he lose sight of it, so as to stretch them with oxhide reins from the start, but he controls them securely and lies in wait for the leader. Now will I tell you of a very clearly visible sign, nor will it escape your notice. A dry stump of wood, of oak or pine, stood as much as six feet (in height) above the ground; it has not become rotten through rain; and there are two white stones propped up on either side of it in the place where the road meets with the other, and the race-course (becomes) dry around it; perhaps it marks the grave of some men who died long ago, or perhaps it was set up as turning post for men in earlier times; and now swift-footed Achilles has made (it) his turning point. So, as you approach (it), drive your chariot and pair very close (to it), and may you yourself, (as you stand) on your well-plaited platform, lean a little to the left of them; but you should goad your right-hand horse by shouting (at him), and you should give him the reins in your hands. And, at the turning point, your left-hand horse should be brought near to it, so that the nave of your well-built wheel should seem to come to the edge of it; but you should arrange to avoid the stone, lest you should damage your horses and smash your chariot; and that will be a source of joy to the others and a disgrace to yourself; but, my friend, you should be of sound mind and on your guard. For, if you can pass the (other) drivers at the turning post, there is no (one) who could catch and overtake (you); and no (man) could pass (you), not even if were driving the great Arion from behind (you), (that) is Adrestus' race-horse, whose stock was from the gods. or those of Laomedon, the greatest ever born there."
So having spoken, Nestor, son of Neleus, sat down again in his place, since he had told his son the essential points of each (matter of importance).
Ll. 351-387. The horse-race begins.
Then, Meriones was the fifth (one) to harness his flowing-maned horses. Then, they climbed into their chariots, and cast their lots into a helmet; Achilles shook them, and from it they sprang the lot of Nestor's son Antilochus; and lord Eumelus won the lot after him, and then after him the son of Atreus, the famous spearman Menelaus, and after him Meriones, were chosen to cast (their lots); then. the son of Tydeus (i.e. Diomedes), (he who) was by far the best of them, cast his lot to drive his horses. And they stood one after another in a line, and Achilles showed them the turning post in the distance on the flat plain; he had positioned an umpire beside (it), (namely) Phoenix, his father's companion, to note their courses and to plainly tell the truth.
They all raised their whips over their horses together and struck then with their reins, and shouted out their words with eagerness; and they quickly made their speedy way over the plain far away from the ships; and the dust rose under their chests and hung like a cloud or a whirlwind, and their manes flowed out amid the blast of wind. And, at one moment, a chariot would bounce on the nourishing earth, and at another it would dart in the air; and the drivers stood on their chariot-boards, and the heart of each (one) throbbed as he longed for victory; and each (man) called out to his horses, and on they flew, raising the dust on the plain.
But, when the fast horses were now running over the last part of the course back again to the grey sea, then the worth of each (driver) began to show and the running speed of their horses was continuously stretched; then, quickly did the swift-footed horses of the son of Pheres get in front. And after them came Diomedes' stallions of Trojan stock, and they were not at all far behind, but very close; it ever seemed likely that they were about to mount into Eumelus' chariot, and his broad back and shoulders grew warm with their breath; for they leaned their heads right over him as they flew along. And now he would have gone past (him), or made the result doubtful, if Phoebus Apollo had not displayed his anger with the son of Tydeus, and he knocked the bright whip out of his hands. Then, tears of fury poured from his eyes, as he saw that the mares were still going much more strongly, but his own (horses) were hindered by running without the (goad of the) whip.
Ll. 388-428. Diomedes takes the lead with the assistance of Athene; behind him, Menelaus competes with Antilochus.
But Athene was aware that Apollo had been hampering the son of Tydeus, and she very quickly sped after the shepherd of he host, and gave him (back) his whip and put strength in his horses. Then, in her anger she went after the son of Admetus (i.e, Eumelus); and the goddess smashed the yoke of his chariot; and his horses ran off the road and his pole slipped down on to the ground. And he himself was thrown out of his chariot beside the wheel, and his elbows, mouth and nose were stripped of their skin, and his forehead was bruised over his eyebrows; and so his eyes filled with tears, and his strong voice was blocked. Then, the son of Tydeus turned aside and held on tightly to his strong-hooved steeds, as he sped far ahead of the others; for Athene put strength in his horses and gave glory to their driver. And after him drove the son of Atreus, the fair-haired Menelaus. But Antilochus called upon his father's horses: "Go on, you two as well! Exert yourselves as quickly as you can! In truth, I am not asking you to strive in any way with yonder steeds of Tydeus' warrior son, to which Athene has just now offered speed and given glory to the one (who drives them). But do you swiftly overtake the horses of the son of Atreus, and do not let them leave you behind, lest Aethe, (who) is (but) a female, should inflict shame on you; why, my good (steeds), are you being outstripped? For thus shall I speak to you, and it will truly be brought to pass. There shall be no care for you with Nestor, the shepherd of the host, but he will slay you at once with the sharp bronze, if, through your slackness, we win a lesser prize. But go after them, and press on as quickly as you can; and this I myself will contrive and plan, that we shall slip past (them) in the narrow bit of track, and I will not miss my opportunity.
So he spoke, and, seized with fear at the reproach of their master, they ran more swiftly for a little while; and, then, quickly did Antilochus, staunch in fight, catch sight of a narrow (spot) in the hollow road. There was a rift in the ground where pent up storm water had broken up (a part of) the road, and had hollowed out the whole place; there drove Menelaus, trying to avoid the clashing of his wheels (with another chariot). Antilochus turned aside his single-hooved horses and drove on outside the track, and followed after (him), leaning a little to one side. And the son of Atreus was seized with fear, and shouted to Antilochus: "Antilochus, you are driving recklessly; now rein in your horses; for the road (is) narrow, but soon (it will be) wider for driving, unless perhaps you may wreck (us) both (by) hitting my car."
Ll. 429-472. The race continues.
So he spoke, but still Antilochus drove on even more hotly, and plied the goad, as though he had not heard. And as far as is the range of a discus swung from the shoulder, which a young man hurls as a trial of his strength, so far they ran on; but the (mares) dropped behind the son of Atreus; for he himself purposely forbore to urge (them) on, lest perhaps the single-hooved horses might happen to come together on the track and overturn the well-plaited chariots and fall down in the dust themselves in their eagerness for victory. Then, fair-haired Menelaus taunted him and said: "No other mortal is more malicious than you; curses be upon you, since we Achaeans were not right to consider you to be a man of good sense. But, even so, you will not win a prize without (swearing) an oath."
So he said, and he called to his horses and said (to them): "Do not hold back, I bid you, nor stand still, grieving in your heart. Their feet and knees will grow weary sooner than yours. For both (of them) are deprived of youth."
So he said, and they, seized with fear at the rebuke of their master, ran on more swiftly, and soon they came close to the others.
But the Argives, sitting in the place of gathering, were gazing at the horses; and on they flew, raising dust on the plain. And the first to notice the horses (was) Idomeneus, leader of the Cretans; for he was sitting outside the gathering, uppermost in a place with a commanding view; and, when he heard (the voice) of him that shouted, even though it was afar off, he knew (it), and he was aware that a distinguished horse was in front, (one) which was a bay with regard to all the rest of him, but on his forehead there was a round white spot like the moon. And he stood up straight and spoke among the Argives: *My friends, leaders and rulers of the Argives, do I alone discern the horses, or (do) you (see them) as well? Other horses seem to me to be out in front, and there seems (to be) another charioteer; and the (mares) seem to have come to harm out yonder on the plain, and those who were once in front; for, in truth, I saw them dashing first around the turning post, but now I cannot see them anywhere; and my eyes glance searchingly everywhere over the Trojan plain; did the charioteer drop the reins, or was he not able to guide them aright around the turning post, and did he not succeed in the turn? Even there he must have been thrown out and crashed together with his chariot, and his (mares) must have swerved from the course, since wildness must have captured their hearts. But do you stand up also and look (around you); for I do not see clearly; but the man seems to me to be an Aetolian by race, and to be a king among the Argives, the son of horse-taming Tydeus, (namely) mighty Diomedes."
Ll. 473-513. Diomedes and Sthenelus win the prize.
Then did swift Aias, son of Oïleus, shamefully upbraid him: "Idomeneus, why are you blustering on as before, while the high-stepping mares are speeding over the wide plain? Nor are you by far the youngest among the Argives, and you do not have the sharpest eyes in your head; but you always prattle loudly with words; but there is no need at all for you to be a brash speaker; for (there are) others here better (than you). The mares themselves are in the lead, even those (who were) before, (those) of Eumelus, and he himself stands in (the car) and holds the reins."
Then, the leader of the Cretans waxed wrathful and addressed him face-to-face: "Aias, you best of feuders, (yet you are) foolish in counsel, but among the Argives you are lacking in everything (else), in that your mind is stubborn. Come now, let us wager a tripod or a cauldron as to which mares are in the lead, and (as) an umpire between the two of us, let us choose Atreus' son, Agamemnon, so that you may know by paying the price."
So he spoke, and swift Aias, son of Oïleus, at once rose up i his wrath to answer (him) with angry words; and yet the strife between them both would have gone still further, if Achilles himself had not stood up and spoken these words: "No longer now, Aias and Idomeneus, do you answer one another with angry (and) evil words, for it is not seemly. And both of you would feel indignation with another who acted in such a manner. But sit you down in the place of gathering and watch the horses; for they themselves, in their eagerness foe victory, will soon come hither; and then shall each (man of you) know the horses of the Argives, which (ones are) behind, and which (are) in front."
So he spoke, and the son of Tydeus came very close (to them) as he drove, and all the time he lashed out from his shoulders with the whip; and they horses leapt up on high as they sped swiftly on their way. And ever did flakes of dust strike the charioteer, and his chariot overlaid with gold and tin ran on at the heels of the swift-footed horses; nor was there any track made by the wheel-rims in the fine dust behind (them); and the two flew speeding on. Then, he stopped in the midst of the place of gathering, and streams of sweat flowed to the ground from the necks and the chests of the horses. And he himself leapt to the ground from his gleaming chariot, and lent the whip against the yoke; neither did mighty Sthenelus dally, but he keenly took the prize and gave the woman and the tripod with handles to his high-spirited comrades to bear away; and he loosened the horses from (their yoke).
Ll. 514-554. Disputes arise over the prize-giving.
And after him, Antilochus, grandson of Neleus, drove his horses, for by guile and not at all by speed had he outstripped Menelaus; but even so Menelaus guided his swift horses close behind. And a horse is some distance away from the wheel, (a horse) which draws his master over the plain, while straining with the chariot. The hindmost hairs of his tail touch the top of the (wheel); and the (wheel) runs very close behind (them), and (there is) not much space between them as he speeds over the wide plain; by so much was peerless Antilochus behind Menelaus; but, at first, he was as far behind as a man throwing the discus, but he quickly overtook him; for the goodly strength of fair-maned Aethe, the mare of Agamemnon, began to increase; and, if the course for the two of them had been yet longer, then he would have passed him by, and there would have been no dispute about it. But Meriones, valiant squire of Idomeneus, was a spear cast behind glorious Menelaus; for his fair-maned horses were the slowest (of all), and he himself was the least skilled to drive a chariot in the race. And the son of Admetus (i.e. Eumelus) came in last (behind all) the others, dragging his fine chariot and driving his horses before (him). And, at the sight of him, swift-footed godlike Achilles felt pity for him, and he stood up among the Argives and spoke winged words: "The man, (who is) the best, drives his single-hooved horses into the last place; but come now, let us give him the second prize, as is meet; but let the son of Tydeus (i.e. Diomedes) bear away the first (one)."
So he spoke, and they all assented as he bade (them). And now would he have given him the mare, for the Achaeans were in agreement, if Antilochus, son of great-hearted Nestor, had not arisen and replied in objection to Achilles, son of Peleus: "O Achilles, I shall be very angry with you, if you should fulfil this decision; for you are minded to take my prize away from me, in your thinking that his chariot and fast horses came to grief, and he himself also, good (man) though he is; but he should have prayed to the immortals; then he would not in any way have come in last of all in the race. But, if you feel pity for him, and he is dear to your heart, there is in your hut a great (horde of) gold and cattle, and there are handmaids, let me tell you, and single-hooved horses; so then do you take up and give him an even better prize, and (do so) at once even now, so that the Achaeans may applaud you. But I will not give up the (mare), but for her let any man who wishes try to do battle with me with his fists."
Ll. 555-585. Menelaus expresses his deep anger at the position in which he has been placed.
So he spoke, and the swift-footed godlike Achilles smiled, rejoicing at Antilochus, in that he was his dear comrade; and he answered him, and spoke these winged words to (him): "Antilochus, if you are telling me to give something extra to Eumelus from out of my house, this I shall certainly do. I will give him the bronze corselet, which I took from Asteropaeus (i.e. a Trojan warrior killed in an earlier battle), around which is draped an overlay of shining tin; and it will be (a thing) of great worth to him."
So he spoke, and bade his dear comrade Automedon bring if from the hut; and he went and fetched it, and put (it) in the hands of Eumelus; and he received (it) gladly.
Then, Menelaus rose up also, sad at heart, and insatiably angry with Antilochus; and then a herald put the staff into his hand, and told the Argives to be silent; and then the godlike man spoke to (them): "Antilochus, wise though you were before, what on earth have you done? You have put my skill to shame, and blocked my horses, pushing in front those of your own, though they were worse by far. But come now, (you) leaders and rulers of the Argives, judge impartially between the two of us, and without favour to either one of us, lest one of the bronze-coated Argives shall say afterwards: 'Menelaus prevailed over Antilochus by lying, and went on driving the mare, in that his horses were worse by far, but he himself was mightier in worth and power.' But if I myself shall propose the solution, then I think that no one else among the Danaans shall reproach me; for it shall be fair. Come here, Antilochus, fostered by Zeus, as is right and proper, and stand before the horses and chariot, and take the slender lash in your hand, with which you used to drive in the past, and laying your hand on the horses, swear by him who upholds and shakes the earth (i.e. Poseidon) that you did not hinder and shackle my chariot by guile."
Ll. 586-623. Menelaus and Antilochus are reconciled.
Then, Antilochus, (that man) of good sense, said to him in reply: "Hold on now, for I am much younger than you, lord Menelaus, and you (are) older and better (than I). You know what are the transgressions of a young man; for he is too hasty in his thinking, and his wit is somewhat slender. So, let your heart be patient; and the mare which I won I will give to you myself. And if you should also ask for some other very good (thing) from my house, I should be immediately willing to give (it) to you at once rather than be cast out of your heart all my days you nurtured of Zeus, and be a sinner in (the eyes of) the gods."
So spoke the son of great-hearted Nestor, and he led out the mare and placed (her) in the hands of Menelaus. And his heart was softened like dew about the ears of growing corn-crops, when the fields are bristling (with new shoots). So was your heart then gladdened in your breast, Menelaus. Then, he spoke these winged words to him and said: "Antilochus, now I myself cease from my anger against you, since in the past you were not all silly or witless; however, your youth has now got the better of your reason. But, another time, try not to outwit your betters. For no other man of the Achaeans would have prevailed so quickly upon me. But you have indeed suffered greatly and toiled greatly, both you and your noble father (i.e. Nestor) and brother (i.e. Thrasymedes), for my sake; therefore I will comply with your entreaty, and I will also give you the mare, even though she is mine, so that these (men) may also know that my heart is never overbearing and unbending."
So he spoke, and he gave the mare to Noemon, the comrade of Antilochus, to lead away; and then he took the shining cauldron. And, in fourth (place), Meriones took up the two gold talents, even as he drove. But the fifth prize, the two-handled urn, was left unclaimed; Achilles gave it to Nestor, bearing (it) through the gathering of the Argives, and he came to his side and said: "There now, old man, and let it be treasure for you, and be a memorial of the burial of Patroclus; for no more will you behold him among the Argives; but, even so, I give you this prize; for you will not compete at boxing, nor will you enter into a contest of throwing the javelin, nor will you run upon your feet; for now grievous old age shall bear down upon you."
Ll. 624-663. Nestor informs his friends of his many victories when he was a young man.
So saying, he placed (it) in his hands; and he received (it) gladly, and addressed him, saying these winged words: "Verily, my son, you have spoken these (words) aright; for my limbs and my feet are no longer firmly set, nor do my arms shoot out lightly from both of my shoulders. If only I were young and my strength were firm, as (on the day) when the Epeians were burying lord Amarynceus at Buprasium, and they gave his sons prizes in honour of the king; then there was no man like me, neither among the Epeians, nor the Pylians themselves, nor the great-hearted Aetolians. In boxing, I overcame Clytomedes, son of Enops, and, in wrestling, Ancaeus of Pleuron, who stood up against me; I outran Iphiclus in the foot-race, good (man) though he was, and with the spear I out-threw Phyleus and Polydorus. In the chariot-race alone, the two sons of Actor (i.e. Cteatus and Eurytus) outstripped me, thrusting themselves to the front by force of numbers in their desire for victory, since the greatest prize was left for that event. They were twins; one drove with a firm hand, while the other one applied the whip. Thus was I at that time; but now let younger (men) undertake such tasks; and I must yield to grievous old age, but then, however, did I stand out among the warriors. But come now, hold funeral rites with contests for your comrade. But I receive this (gift) gladly, and my heart rejoices that you always remember me as a good friend, nor do you forget the honours, at which it is fitting that I should be deemed worthy of honour among the Achaeans. And in return for these (things), may the gods grant you grace to satisfy (your heart)."
So said he, and the son of Peleus went his way through the great throng of the Achaeans, when he had listened to all the praise of the son of Neleus (i.e. Nestor). Then, he set out the prizes for the painful boxing (contest); he brought a sturdy untamed six-year old mule into the place of gathering, and it was the hardest (of all) to train; and for him who should be defeated he provided a two-handled cup. Then, he stood up straight among the Argives and spoke these words: "Son of Atreus and (you) other well-greaved Achaeans, for these (prizes) we invite two warriors, the best among (you), to raise (your fists) and fight as boxers; (let him) to whom Apollo shall grant endurance, and all the Achaeans shall have knowledge of (him), go to his hut leading the sturdy mule; but he who is worsted shall bear the two-handled cup (as his prize)."
Ll. 664-699. In the boxing contest, Epeius defeats Euryalus.
So he spoke, and forthwith there arose a man valiant and tall, and well-skilled in boxing, (namely) Epeius, son of Panopeus, and he laid hold of the sturdy mule and said: "Let him draw nearer, whoever is to bear the two-handled cup (as his prize); and I do not think that any other of the Achaeans shall lead the mule away by overcoming (me) with his fists, since I declare that I am the best (man). Is it not enough that I am inferior in battle? For it may not be the case that one can be a man of skill in every work. For thus will I speak, and this (thing) will indeed be brought to pass; for utterly will I rend his flesh and crush his bones. And may those who are here as his kinsmen remain here in a throng, so that they may carry him off, when he has been worsted by my fists."
So he spoke, and they all became hushed in silence. Now, Euryalus alone stood up to face him, a godlike man (he was), the son of king Mecisteus, son of Talaus, (he) who had come to Thebes, to the funeral of Oedipus, after he had fallen, and there he had worsted all the descendants of Cadmus (i.e. the inhabitants of Thebes). And the son of Tydeus (i.e. Diomedes), famed for his spear, gave him (i.e. Euryalus) his attention, and encouraged him with words, and greatly wished for victory in his case. First, he cast a girdle around him, and then he gave (him) the well-cut leather straps of (the hide of) the ox of the field. Then, when the two of them had girded themselves, they stepped into the midst of the place of gathering, and they both lifted up their mighty hands together, and they came to blows and their heavy hands clashed together. And terrible was the grinding of their teeth, and sweat fell from their limbs on every side; then, godlike Epeius rushed upon (him), and, as peered around (for an opening), he smote (him) on the cheek; nor, after that, could he stand for any length of time; for there did his glorious limbs sink beneath (him). And, as when beneath a ripple of the North Wind, a fish leaps up on to a shore full of seaweed, and then the black wave hides it, even so did he (i.e. Euryalus) leap up when he was smitten; but great-hearted Epeius took (him) in his hands, and set (him) straight; and his dear comrades stood around (him), and led him through the place of gathering with trailing feet, spitting out clotted blood, and with his head hanging on one side; and they brought (him) down in a dazed state and sat him in their midst, and they themselves went and took care of the two-handled cup.
Ll. 700-739. Ajax and Odysseus wrestle with each other.
Then, the son of Peleus set out in the sight of the Danaans other prizes for the third (event), the painful wrestling (match), and for him that should win (it) a great tripod that should stand on the fire, which the Achaeans assessed among themselves at the value of twelve oxen; and for the man who should be worsted he set in their midst a woman skilled in many handiworks, and they assessed her at the value of four oxen. Then he stood erect, and spoke these words to the Argives: "Stand up the two of you who wish to have a go in this contest."
So he spoke, and then great Telamonian Ajax arose, and up stood Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, with his knowledge of cunning tricks. Then, when the two of them had girded up their loins, they stepped into the midst of the place of gathering and laid hold of one another's arms with their sturdy hands, just like some gable-rafters, which the famous craftsman of a lofty house joined together, so as to avoid the force of the winds. And their backs creaked beneath the violent tugging of bold hands; and damp sweat flowed down, and many a weal, dark red with blood, ran back along their ribs and shoulders; and ever they yearned for victory on account of the well-made tripod. Neither could Odysseus trip (him) up and throw (him) to the ground, nor could Ajax (do so either), for the mighty strength of Odysseus held fast. But, when they were about to weary the well-greaved Achaeans, then did great Telamonian Ajax address him: "Zeus-fostered son of Laertes, ever-ready Odysseus, lift me up, or I (shall lift) you! But yet all these (things) are the concern of Zeus."
So he spoke and he lifted (him) up; but Odysseus did not forget his guile; he smote the hollow of his knee with a kick from behind, and loosed his limbs, and threw (him) backwards; and Odysseus fell on his chest; and the people gazed once more, and were full of wonder. Then, in his turn, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus sought to lift him, and moved him a little from the ground, but he still could not lift (him), but he crooked his knee into (his); and the two of them fell on the ground close to one another, and they were defiled with dust. And now they would have sprung up again for the third time and wrestled, if Achilles himself had not got up and held (them) back: "Do not strain yourselves any longer, and do not wear yourselves out with pain; for victory (is) with both of you; then take equal prizes, and go on your way, so other Achaeans too may contend for a prize."
So he spoke, and they readily listened to him and obeyed, and, wiping the dust (from their bodies), they put on their tunics.
Ll. 740-783. Odysseus wins the running contest with the help of Athene.
Then, forthwith did the son of Peleus put down other prizes for fleetness of foot: (one was) a richly wrought mixing-bowl: six measures it held, and in beauty it was by far the best in all the earth, seeing that the Sidonians, well-skilled in such work, had fashioned (it), and the men of Phoenicia had brought (it) over the murky sea, and landed (it) in the harbour, and they gave it as a gift to Thoas; and Jason's son, Euneus, gave it to the warrior Patroclus (as) a ransom for Lycaon, son of Priam. And this (bowl) did Achilles set forth (as) a prize in honour of his comrade for him who should prove to be the swiftest in speed of foot. For the second he again produced a great ox, rich in fat, and for the last man he appointed half a talon in gold. And he stood upright, and said these words among the Argives: "Stand up (the two of you) who wish to have a go in this contest." So he spoke, and forthwith there arose swift Ajax, son of Oïleus, and Odysseus, (that man) of many wiles, and then Nestor's son, Antilochus' for again he surpassed all the young men in (the use of) his feet. Then, they stood in a row; and Achilles showed (them) the goal. And the course was marked out for them from the turning-point; then the son of Oïleus came speedily to the front; and godlike Odysseus came up very close to (him), as when some weaving- rod is (close) to the breast of a well-girdled woman, and she draws it deftly in her hands, pulling the spool past the thread of the warp, and she holds (it) to her breast; even so did Odysseus run closely (to him), and behind him he trod with his feet in his footsteps, before the dust settled in the tracks; and down upon his head beat the breath of godlike Odysseus, as he ran ever swiftly on; and all the Achaeans shouted to (him), as he strove for victory, and they urged him on, as he exerted himself to the utmost. But now, when they were running the last part of the course, straightway did Odysseus pray in his heart to bright-eyed Athene: "Hear (me), goddess, and come to my feet (as) my goodly rescuer." So he spoke in prayer; and Pallas Athene heard him, and she made his limbs light, and his hands and feet from above. But when they were just about to seize the prize, then Ajax slipped as he ran, for Athene hampered him, and, (on the ground) where he fell, filth was strewn from the slaying of the loud-bellowing bulls that swift-footed Achilles had slain in honour of Patroclus; and his mouth and nostrils were filled with the dung of the bulls; however, the much-enduring godlike Odysseus took up the mixing-bowl, as he came in first; and glorious Ajax took the ox. And he stood holding the horn of the ox of the field, spewing out filth, and he spoke among the Argives (thus): "Alas, for in truth the goddess hampered my feet, and, as in the past, she stands by the side of Odysseus like a mother and comes to his aid."
Ll. 784-825. Ajax and Diomedes fight in single combat.
So he spoke, and they all happily laughed at him. Then, Antilochus took away the last prize with a smile, and spoke these words among the Argives: "To all of you, my friends, who know (it) well, I will declare that even now the immortals show honour to older men. For Ajax is but a little older than I (am), whereas that (man) (i.e. Odysseus) is of an earlier generation and of earlier men; and (men) say that he is of a green old age; yet hard (it is) for Achaeans to contend with him in running, save only for Achilles."
So he spoke, and he gave glory to the swift-footed son of Peleus. And Achilles answered him and spoke these words: "Not in vain, Antilochus, shall your (words of) praise be spoken, but I shall lay upon you an (additional) half-talent of gold."
So saying, he put (it) in his hands, and he received (it) gladly. But the son of Peleus brought, and put down in the place of gathering, a long-shafted spear and a shield and a helmet, the armour of Sarpedon that Patroclus had stripped off him. And he stood erect and spoke among the Argives, saying: "Concerning these (prizes), we invite two warriors, the best (that there are), to clothe themselves in their armour and take up bronze that cleaves the flesh, and put each other to the test before the host. Whichever of the two shall first hit the (other's) fair flesh and touch his entrails through his armour and black blood, to him will I give this fine silver-studded Thracian sword, which I took from Asteropaeus; and let the two of them take away this armour as joint owners; and a splendid banquet shall we put before them in our huts."
So did he speak, and then there arose great Telamonian Ajax, and then rose up the son of Tydeus, the mighty Diomedes. And so, when they had armed themselves on either side of the throng, into their midst strode the two of them together, eager for battle, glaring terribly; and amazement took hold of all the Achaeans, but when they had advanced and were near to each other, thrice did they set upon (each other), and thrice did they attack (each other) at close range. Then, Ajax thrust thereupon at his shield, well-balanced on all sides (as it was), but it could not reach the flesh, for the corselet within kept (it) out; but, then, over the top of his great shield, the son of Tydeus, was ever at his neck with the point of his shining spear. Then, seized with fear for Ajax, the Achaeans bade (them) cease, and take up equal prizes. But the heroic warrior (i.e. Achilles) gave the great sword to the son of Tydeus, bringing with (it) its scabbard and its well-cut leather strap.
Ll. 826-858. Throwing the discus.
Then, the son of Peleus set forth a mass of rudely cast iron, which the mighty strength of Eëtion formerly used to hurl; but, in truth, swift-footed godlike Achilles had slain him, and borne it away on his ships together with his other possessions. And he stood up and spoke among the Argives, saying: "Stand up, the two of you, who wish to have a go in this contest. Although his rich fields lie very far from (the town), he (i.e. the winner in the contest) will have it in use for five revolving years; for not through any lack of iron will his shepherd or ploughman go into town, but it (i.e. the mass of iron) will satisfy their needs."
So he spoke, and there arose Polypoetes, staunch in battle, and the mighty strength of godlike Leonteus, and Ajax, son of Telamon and godlike Epeius. Then, they stood in a row, and godlike Epeius grasped hold of the mass of iron, and whirled (it) and flung (it); and all the Achaeans laughed at (this). Then, Leontius, scion of Ares, was the second (man) to discharge (it); then, thirdly, great Telamonian Ajax hurled (it) from his sturdy hand, and he surpassed the marks of (them) all. But, then, when Polypoetes, staunch in battle, grasped the mass of iron, he flung it as far as his herdsman (flings) his crook, and it flies whirling over the herds of kine, and he flings it as far as the whole of the gathering; and they shouted (aloud). And the comrades of mighty Polypoetes rose up and bore the king's prize to the hollow ships.
But for the archers he set forth dark iron (as a prize), and he laid down ten double-edged axes and ten single-edged (ones), and he set up the mast of a dark-prowed ship far off on the sandy shores, and from (it) he bound by the foot with a slender cord a timorous dove, at which he bade (them) shoot; "Whoever should hit the timorous dove, let him take all the double-edged axes and bear (them) home; and whoever should hit the cord, though he shall miss the bird, for his (is) the inferior (shot), but he shall bear the single-edged axes (as his prize)."
Ll. 859-897. The archery contest.
So he spoke, and thereby there arose the might of lord Teucer, and then Meriones, the noble squire of Idomeneus. Then, they took the lots and shook (them) in a helmet of bronze, and Teucer drew the first place by lot; and, straightway, he let fly an arrow with all his strength, but he did not vow to the king (i.e. Apollo) that he would sacrifice a glorious hecatomb of firstborn lambs. So he missed the bird; for Apollo grudged him that; but he hit the cord beside its foot, to which the bird was tied; and the sharp arrow cut through the cord completely. Then, (the bird) darted to the sky, and the cord hung down towards the earth; and the Achaeans shouted aloud. But, then, with a speedy movement, Meriones snatched the bow from his hand; and he had been holding an arrow for a long time, while (the other) had been shooting. And he vowed forthwith that he would sacrifice to Apollo the far-shooter a glorious hecatomb of first-born lambs. High up beneath the clouds, he espied the timorous dove; there, as she circled around, he struck (her) in the midst beneath her wing, and the shaft passed right through (her); and it (fell) back and fixed itself on the ground before the foot of Meriones; but the bird, alighting on the mast of the dark-prowed ship, hung down her head, and her thick feathers drooped. Then, the life fled swiftly from her limbs, and she fell far from it (i.e. the mast); and the people looked on in astonishment. Then, Meriones took up all ten double-edged axes, and Teucer bore the single-edged (ones) to the hollow ships.
Then, the son of Peleus brought down and set in the place of gathering a long-shafted spear, and a cauldron untouched by fire, embossed with flowers and worthy of an ox; and the men who threw spears arose; and up rose the son of Atreus, wide-ruling Agamemnon, and Meriones, the noble squire of Idomeneus. Then, swift-footed godlike Achilles said to them: "Son of Atreus, for we know how far you excel all (of us), and how far you are the best in might and in the casting of javelins; so do you take the prize and make your way to the hollow ships, but let us give the spear to the warrior Meriones, if you should wish (for this) in your heart; for (this is what) I suggest."
So he spoke, and Agamemnon, king of men, did not disagree; and he gave the spear of bronze to Meriones, but the warrior handed the beauteous prize (i.e. the cauldron) to his herald Talthybius.
