The Tragedies of Seneca / Translated into English Verse, to Which Have Been Appended Comparative Analyses of the Corresponding Greek and Roman Plays, and a Mythological Index

by Lucius Annaeus Seneca

[7] Reading, ultra suum scelus hoc cucurrit.

ACT IV

[On the field before Thebes, between the battle lines.]

Jocasta [kneeling between her two hostile sons]: 'Gainst me your arms and blazing torches turn;

'Gainst me alone let every warrior rush,

Who comes from Argos thirsting for the fray,

And they who from the citadel of Thebes445

Come down to battle. Friend and foe, alike,

Attack this womb of mine which brothers bore

Unto my husband. Rend me limb from limb,