_in three Strophes, Antistrophes, and an Epode,_
describes in words the tearings of cheeks, rending of garments, and
groans, which are actually the gestures of their dance, and are proper
to a Sepulchral rite such as they have been sent to perform by their
Queen, terrified as she has been by a dream the night before, a dream
signifying how the Dead were wroth with those that slew them. But the
Chorus like not this graceless deed of grace: what ransom can be found
for the overthrow of the lord of a house? with him Awe has been
overthrown, and Fear takes its place, or yet more Success is God. {53}
Yet stroke of Vengeance swift
Smites some in life's clear day;
For some who tarry long their sorrows wait
In twilight dim, on darkness' borderland;
And some an endless night
Of nothingness holds fast.
Yes: for blood once spilt, for the marriage tie defiled, there is no
remedy--yet the Chorus must, as part of their bitter captive lot,
perform the rite they have no heart in. {75}
_Through this Ode Electra, who ought to have taken the lead, has stood
on the stage irresolute: she now addresses the Chorus, who at her word
fall into their Episode positions._