Monologue

Medea Monologue

From Medea by Euripides

female · anguished · 1:18 min

I was their mother! When I heard thy prayer Of long life for them, there swept over me A horror, wondering how these things shall be. But for the matter of my need that thou Should speak with me, part I have said, and now Will finish.--Seeing it is the king's behest To cast me out from Corinth . . . aye, and best, Far best, for me--I know it--not to stay Longer to trouble thee and those who sway The realm, being held to all their house a foe. . . . Behold, I spread my sails, and meekly go To exile. But our children. . . . Could this land Be still their home awhile: could thine own hand But guide their boyhood. . . . Seek the king, and pray His pity, that he bid thy children stay!

About this piece

Medea grapples with her impending exile from Corinth and the separation from her children, expressing deep sorrow and a plea for their safety.

30s · sadness · family · exile · betrayal · motherhood

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