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Pisthetaerus
[1525] What! there are other gods besides you, barbarian gods who dwell above Olympus? Prometheus
If there were no barbarian gods, who would be the patron of Execestides? Pisthetaerus
And what is the name of these gods? Prometheus
Their name? Why, the Triballi. Pisthetaerus
Ah, indeed! [1530] 'tis from that no doubt that we derive the word ‘tribulation.' Prometheus
Most likely. But one thing I can tell you for certain, namely, that Zeus and the celestial Triballi are going to send deputies here to sue for peace. Now don't you treat with them, unless [1535] Zeus restores the scepter to the birds and gives you Basileia in marriage. Pisthetaerus
Who is this Basileia? Prometheus
A very fine young damsel, who makes the lightning for Zeus; all things come from her, [1540] wisdom, good laws, virtue, the fleet, calumnies, the public paymaster and the triobolus. Pisthetaerus
Ah! then she is a sort of general manageress to the god. Prometheus
Yes, precisely. If he gives you her for your wife, yours will be the almighty power. That is what I have come to tell you; [1545] for you know my constant and habitual goodwill towards men. Pisthetaerus
Oh, yes! it's thanks to you that we roast our meat. Prometheus
I hate the gods, as you know. Pisthetaerus
Aye, by Zeus, you have always detested them. Prometheus
Towards them I am a veritable Timon; but I must return in all haste, [1550] so give me the umbrella; if Zeus should see me from up there, he would think I was escorting one of the Canephori. Pisthetaerus
Wait, take this stool as well.
Aristophanes. Birds. The Complete Greek Drama, vol. 2. Eugene O'Neill, Jr. New York. Random House. 1938.
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