Monologue

Magistrate Monologue from Lysistrata

From Lysistrata by Aristophanes

male · sarcastic · 1:00 min

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Have the luxurious rites of the women glittered Their libertine show, their drumming tapped out crowds, The Sabazian Mysteries summoned their mob, Adonis been wept to death on the terraces, As I could hear the last day in the Assembly? For Demostratus--let bad luck befoul him-- Was roaring, "We must sail for Sicily," While a woman, throwing herself about in a dance Lopsided with drink, was shrilling out "Adonis, Woe for Adonis." Then Demostratus shouted, "We must levy hoplites at Zacynthus," And there the woman, up to the ears in wine, Was screaming "Weep for Adonis" on the house-top, The scoundrelly politician, that lunatic ox, Bellowing bad advice through tipsy shrieks: Such are the follies wantoning in them.

About this piece

The Magistrate expresses frustration and disdain over the chaotic behavior of women during a critical political moment, highlighting the absurdity of their distractions amidst serious discussions of war.

40s · anger · power · madness · politics · foolishness

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Run it out loud with a spotlight that follows your voice, line by line, until it's off the page. Free to start, no credit card.

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