Sophocles Trachiniae 1275

mvp-comment-663-1 These four verses are addressed by Hyllus to the leader of the Chorus, and give the signal for moving from the orchestra. With παρθέν’ ¹

mvp-comment-663-2 If the verses are given to the leader of the Chorus, then

will be taken in a collective sense, as referring to the other choreutae; cp. 821 . Prof. Campbell understands a reference to the maidens of the household (205) ; but this seems less natural. In either case, the singular number would be unusual.

mvp-comment-663-3 Another view is that

means Iolè. But she is not present: and, even if she could be thus summoned forth, her presence would be unfitting.

mvp-comment-663-4 ἐπ’ οἴκων ²

1275. mvp-comment-905-1 λείπου μηδὲ σύ, παρθέν᾽, ἀπ᾿ οἴκων] The Chorus say this to the maidens from within the palace, the same who were addressed, in supr. 205, 6, ας ὁ μελλόνυμφος. (1) Neither fail thou, maiden, leaving the house;'i.e. Be sure to follow us and not to stay at home; ἀπ᾿ οἴκων being construed with μὴ λείπου, as = ἕπου, or some other positive verb. Or (2) deleting the comma after παρθέν', 'Ο maiden from the house, be thou, too, not left behind !'

1275-1278. mvp-comment-906-1 These lines are continued to Hyllus in some MSS., but they are most probably, as above explained, the exode of the Chorus. The Laurentian MS. heads them with χο. ἢ ὑλλ. A similar doubt occurs at O. C. 1777, viz. whether the concluding lines are spoken by the Chorus or by Theseus. The procession is now formed. Cp. Aj. sub fin.