Atreus: And wouldst thou thwart thy brother's great renown?

Thyestes: Thy glory is attained; mine bides its time.

My mind is resolute to shun the crown.540

Atreus: Then I refuse my share of power as well.

Thyestes: Nay then, I yield. The name of king I'll wear,

But laws and arms—and I, are thine to sway.

Atreus [placing the crown on his brother's head]: I'll place this crown upon thy reverend head,

And pay the destined victims to the gods.545


Chorus: The sight is past belief. Behold,