Summaries

1-45 Book 1 opens with the invocation, which finds Statius rapidly contemplating the events that led to the destruction of Thebes. The “Pierian fire” that he speaks of refers in this case to a region in ancient Macedonia named Pieria, which was home to a natural spring and Muses, both of which were believed to be a source of poetic inspiration. Statius begins to unpack the story, reflecting on the hatred between Eteocles and Polynices and the criminal character of Thebes itself. A brief list of the human history of Thebes follows, including a list of previous kings, each marked by references to events that defined their reign. Statius then reflects on the divine history of Thebes; the roles of the gods and goddesses that have unleashed their anger and power on its people and land. Realizing the vast scope of horror and limitless sources of tragedy in Thebes’ history, Statius affirms his decision to limit his account to “the horrors of the house of Oedipus”. Statius then begins a restrained celebration of Thebes’ accomplishments (as Thebes would eventually fall to Rome), and foreshadows the outcome of the fierce battle between the “tyrants” Eteocles and Polynices. Clio (the Greek Muse of history) is invoked to aid Statius in the telling of the tragedy of Thebes.

46-87 Oedipus is introduced. His disgrace and blindness condemn him to “endless night”, and he makes his home in the shadows. Oedipus, filled with misery, begins to pray to the gods of the underworld. The prayer reads like a confession of sorts, tracing back the events that have led to Oedipus’ current state: the crippling of his feet, his rescue, the murder of the king at Phocis, the search for his father, his unknowing affair with his mother, the birth of his children, and finally, his mother’s death and the tearing out of his eyes by his own hands at the realization of his crimes. Oedipus reveals that his sons have abandoned him; that they delight in the power that his demise has afforded them, and begs “consummate punishment” from Tisiphone.

88-196 Tisiphone hears Oedipus’ prayer and travels from her home in Hades to the city of Thebes. Her journey takes her through mountain ranges, oceans and roads, and eventually to the palace itself, where her thick fog infects the brothers with envy, fear and hate. The consequence is “savage lust for power”, that leads to an intolerance between the brothers for shared or successive rule. Statius uses the image of two select oxen of equal strength yoked at the neck and pulling in opposite directions. The division of power is changed from one of simultaneous joint rule between the brothers to a system in which each reigns for a year and then passes the scepter to the other in a type of cyclic monarchy. This marks the end of their “good fortune”, as the brothers, devoid of ethics or civility, begin to wage wars out of sheer greed. Lots are cast, and Eteocles is the first to take the throne, leaving Polynices to wait his turn. The people of Thebes begin to perceive Eteocles authority as uncontrollable, and fear his pride and the tension between the two brothers.

197-311 Jove commands a gathering of the gods in heaven, and when all is quiet, begins a speech that retraces the history of Thebes and the punishment that he and other gods have been forced to carry out against its people. He reiterates the story of the house of Oedipus, and promises revenge in response to Oedipus’ prayer to Tisiphone, citing the need for further punishment of the Argive race. Juno (Jove’s wife) takes offense at his statement because she supports and protects Argos, and sees his move as an attack on her. Juno then begins to plead her case by suggesting first that Jove resents his marriage to her, and secondly, by stressing the absurdity of his plan, as paying men back for their father’s crimes would require a thorough search of eternity to right the wrongs of humankind. Juno also reminds him that there are other cities that have disrespected Jove in a far more distasteful manner and have not suffered his wrath as a result, accusing him of inequity. Jove then responds, refusing to take back his promise to punish the Argives because his words are irreversible. He commands his son, Mercury, to descend into the underworld and request from Jove’s brother (Infernal Jove), that the ghost of Oedipus’ father, Laius, be released from hell. He also commands Mercury to visit Eteocles and persuade him to refuse Polynices when he comes to claim his throne in one years’ time. Mercury obediently begins his descent to the underworld.

312-389 Polynices wanders the land that should be his, agonizing at how slowly the year passes as his brother is in control. His true desire is to see Eteocles dethroned, and to rule Thebes by himself. The promise of this desire continues to build until Polynices finds himself filled with hopefulness, and travels to the Inachus River, a place of darkness. The journey becomes increasingly more dangerous as Polynices travels through severe weather and shadows, filling him with anxiety and fear. He seeks shelter in Juno’s temple and falls asleep on the floor.

390-481 King Adrastus is introduced. He is old and has only daughters, and Apollo prophesies concerning two of Adrastus’ sons-in-law, saying that one will be like a boar, and the other like a lion. Fearing the prophecy to be evil, Adrastus is filled with worry at what the future may hold. Meanwhile, Tydeus departs from Calydon, and after being caught in the same storm as Polynices, unknowingly seeks shelter in Juno’s temple alongside him. Awaking surprised and full of hate, the two begin to fight in the darkness of the hall. Adrastus, unable to sleep, is provoked to action by the loud noises outside, and has the gate opened to reveal the struggle between Polynices and Tydeus. Adrastus quickly determines that they are foreigners of noble birth, and asks what has caused this battle between them. Tydeus responds first, reiterating his travels and explaining that the fight was over the sharing of a resting place. He then challenges Polynices because of his unwillingness to share, and reveals that he is the son of Oeneus and Mars. Polynices insists that he is also of noble heritage, but does not reveal the name of his father, for fear that it may discredit and endanger him. Adrastus asks them to give up their battle and join hands, and then welcomes them into his house, suggesting that their status as exiles and the wounds that they have given one another will serve to unite them in the future. Having been subdued by the physical toll of the battle and Adrastus’ invitation, Polynices and Tydeus submissively enter Adrastus’ home.

482-528 Once inside, Adrastus notices that Polynices is wearing the skin of a lion, and Tydeus, the hide of a boar. Adrastus remembers Apollo’s song of destiny and is filled with joy and adoration for Apollo, believing that Polynices and Tydeus are the promised sons-in-law spoken of in the prophecy. Adrastus offers a prayer to the gods, and calls for a banquet, in preparation for which, Polynices and Tydeus clean their wounds and apologize to each other.

529-end Adrastus tells Acaste (his daughters’ nurse), to bring his daughters, Argia and Deipyle, to the banquet hall where they sit with their father and feast. After the meal, Adrastus asks for his bowl and then calls on Apollo. In an attempt to clear up any confusion regarding the origin of this religious practice, Adrastus tells Polynices and Tydeus the story of Apollo and the Argives: A Python once attacked the land, and Apollo tracked and killed it. He then set out on a quest that brought him to the home of the Argive king, Crotopus. Apollo rapes Crotopus’ daughter, and she bears a child. But fearing her father’s rage, the girl abandons her baby in the mountains to be raised by shepherds. During the night, the baby is mauled to death by dogs. When word reaches the king’s daughter, she is filled with fear and guilt, and confesses the truth to her father, who proceeds to order her death. Apollo then seeks punishment for the wrongful death, and sends a monster that eats the Argive children. A hero named Coroebus kills the monster, but the grief that it has caused is so great that the monster’s death brings no consolation to the Argives. Apollo, furious at the death of his monster, showers lightning down on the Argives, destroying their fields and sending deadly diseases upon them. Crotopus asks Apollo why they are being punished, and Apollo demands that the men who took his monster’s life must be sacrificed to make amends for its death. Coroebus confesses to the slaughter and begs Apollo to take his life in exchange for the lives of the Argives, taking full responsibility for the monster’s death. Impressed with Coroebus’ devotion, Apollo spares his life and retracts the storms and plagues (the feast is in celebration of this story of Apollo’s mercy). Having finished his story, Adrastus then asks Polynices about his family history. Filled with shame, Polynices remains silent for some time, but eventually tells Adrastus that he is from the line of Cadmus, the city of Thebes, the son of Jocasta. Adrastus encourages Polynices not to be ashamed of his heritage, and tells him to forget the mistakes of Oedipus, citing his belief that sins are not handed down from generation to generation. Adrastus emboldens Polynices which his speech, and encourages him to return home and liberate the people of Thebes from their shameful past. Adrastus then pours out another libation of wine on the fire, and recounts a lengthy inventory of the great deeds of Apollo.

1-133 Book 2 opens with Mercury in Hades, searching for Laius’ ghost. After finding him, Mercury begins to the ascent to Earth, during which a jealous ghost warns that Laius’ return to Hades after visiting will only make him sadder than he already is. Cerberus also sees them, but Mercury causes him to fall into a deep sleep. Mercury and Laius emerge at Taenaros. As they fly through the air, Laius looks down on Cirrha (his birthplace), Phocis (the place of his death), and then arrives at his home where he finds his bloodstained chariot propped against a column. It is the Bacchanalia, a day of celebration for Bacchus, the god of wine, and after a day of celebration, Eteocles is asleep in his bed. Laius takes on the form of Tiresias the prophet, and then warns the sleeping Eteocles of Polynices’ plans, the enlisting of Adrastus and Tydeus, and urges him to keep his brother out of Thebes. Laius then pulls back his cloak to reveal the wound that killed him, and lets his blood flow over the sleeping Eteocles. Eteocles wakes from his nightmare, and prepares for battle.

134-305 The sun begins to rise and Adrastus has been up for most of the night thinking about Apollo’s prophecy. Polynices and Tydeus wake, and Adrastus tells them that as a reward for the things they suffered in journeying to Argos, he is offering his daughters to them in marriage. Tydeus responds first by accepting Adrastus’ offer, and Polynices follows. Rumor carries the news through the land, and Eteocles soon hears about the marriages. Fearing the new alliances that will be formed, Eteocles begins to fear the words of Tiresias the prophet from his dream. In Argos, the wedding day arrives, and the people excitedly gather inside the palace. One of the Fates named Lachesis begins to cause general panic, and the bronze shield of Euhippus falls from the tower, knocking the torches down and spreading darkness. An oracle of war comes from the distance, and Argia is found to be wearing the cursed necklace of Harmonia (which once belonged to Polynices’ mother, Jocasta). The wife of the prophet Amphiaraus, unaware of the curse that the necklace carries, plots to make it her own.

306-367 The weddings are celebrated for twelve days, and then Polynices begins to think of his brother once again. He remembers the casting of lots, the loss of his friends, his abandonment by the gods and his anger towards his brother. Filled with rage, Polynices decides to return to Thebes. Statius uses the imagery of a bull long-removed from its valley growing in strength and anger, and striking fear into its preceding conqueror upon its return. Polynices broods in silence, but his new wife knows that he is planning, and confronts him one morning in bed. She fears that the reason for his unrest is that there is another woman that he is interested in. Polynices laughs and explains that she has nothing to fear; that the future will bring only peace. He then hurries to speak with Tydeus and King Adrastus.

368-743 Polynices, Adrastus and Tydeus meet and discuss the best plan of action to assess the situation at Thebes. Tydeus volunteers to be the emissary for this mission (despite Deipyle’s request that he not go), and travels to Thebes where he finds Eteocles griping about the lateness of Polynices’ request for the throne. Tydeus then launches into a speech accusing Eteocles of his unwillingness to relinquish control of the kingdom. He argues that if Eteocles truly meant to uphold his promise, he would have sent an emissary to inform Polynices that the time had come for him to take the throne. He then challenges his familial piety and informs him that it is his turn to wander the country in exile while Polynices takes the throne. Eteocles responds by accusing Tydeus of threatening him. He then proceeds to tell Tydeus that he will continue to hold the scepter in Thebes for the following reasons: Polynices has already been given an honorary palace as a dowry for marrying Argia, the people of Thebes are familiar with Eteocles’ rule, brief and inconsistent terms of office are an encumbrance to government, and his current administration would be in danger of punishment if Polynices were to take the throne. Tydeus interrupts Eteocles and insists that he surrender, promising war and destruction for Thebes, then flees the palace. He is pursued, and drops the olive branch that signifies his diplomat status. The people of Thebes throw insults at him, but begin to doubt Eteocles as well. In an act of cowardice, Eteocles gathers a group of men and organizes an ambush on Tydeus, thus violating the codes surrounding emissaries. Using a secret path, the men eventually arrive at a section of the roadway where two hills surround the path, and lie in wait for Tydeus (it is here that Oedipus once defeated the Sphinx). Tydeus draws closer to the trap, but sees the armor and shields of the assassins, and prepares himself for the ambush. The leader of the ambush, Chthonius, hurls a spear at Tydeus, but does not wound him. Unaware of how many more are hiding, Tydeus accuses the men of cowardice, and challenges them to fight him. When he realizes how many there are, he begins to flee up the side of the Sphinx’s cliff, pursued by the assassins. But losing all sense of fear, Tydeus turns to face them and hurls a massive rock down the cliff, killing four of the men: Dorylas, Theron, Halys and Phaedimus. The remaining men scatter, and Tydeus pursues them on foot. As the assassins regroup, Tydeus draws his sword and attacks the assailants. He is wounded, but continues to fight, killing Deilochus, Phegeus, Gyas and Lycophontes. The surviving assassins regroup, and while Chromis is giving a speech to rally them, Tydeus throws a spear through his throat. Chromis’ brother, Periphas, bends down to cradle his dying body, and is pierced by a second spear that enters through Periphas’ back and exits into Chromis’ chest, binding their hearts together. The brothers close each other’s eyes with their right hands and die on top of one another. Tydeus pins Menoetus to the ground with a spear at his throat. Menoetus begs for his life, promising to return to Thebes and tell the people of their defeat, but Tydeus will not allow it because they had been hired to kill him, and he shoves the spear through Menoetus as well. Tydeus begins to lose strength, but a Tritonian maiden counsels him to resign from the battle so that others will hear of his exploits. Only Maeon survives, and Tydeus commissions him to carry the message of war to Eteocles. After Maeon leaves, Tydeus piles the bodies of the fallen men to honor Athena, and hangs their weapons and armor on a nearby oak tree. As the night closes in, Tydeus prays to Athena, and presents the mutilated corpses as an offering to the goddess, telling her that he will build her a golden temple in his home country, should they ever accept him back. Tydeus finishes his prayer, and then returns to Argos.

1-32 Book 3 opens with Eteocles awaiting word from the assassins that he sent after Tydeus. Filled with anxiety, he is unable to sleep, and begins to play out scenarios of victory in his mind to ease his nervous thoughts. Eteocles blames himself for the situation, wishing that he had struck Tydeus down as he was giving the message from Argos in the palace court.

33-113 The sun dawns on Thebes, and an earthquake causes Mt. Cithaeron to tremble, shaking houses and raining rocks on the city gates. Like a shepherd who has lost his flock, Maeon returns to Thebes mortified and dejected. His lone arrival causes the people of Thebes to begin mourning. Maeon approaches Eteocles and explains that he alone has lived through the assault on Tydeus. He then accuses Eteocles of disgracing the law, and declares his war cursed. Eteocles is filled with rage, and his henchmen, Phlegyas and Labadacus, prepare to attack Maeon. Maeon draws his sword, and after a short speech condemning Eteocles, takes his own life by stabbing himself through the side. His wife and family take his body home, but Eteocles forbids them to cremate it. Statius gives a short speech honoring Maeon for his courage in defying the king and defending freedom.

114-132 The families of the fallen assassins leave Thebes to search for the bodies of their loved ones. Upon finding their dead bodies by the cliffs, they mourn bitterly and attempt to identify the mutilated corpses by removing their armor and reattaching their limbs.

133-168 A forlorn woman named Ide saunters through the fields in search of her sons, Chromis and Periphas. Statius explains that though she is in mourning, Ide delights in war because it affords her the chance to collect the bodies of the dead and use them to offer prayers to the gods. The dead abhor her and the lord of hell condemns her. Ide finds her sons joined by a spear through their hearts, and begins to weep. She mourns her loss of good fortune and grieves the fact that Chromis and Periphas were killed in darkness, obscuring their pointless deaths and robbing them of glory. Ide resolves to cremate them together and mix their ashes in a single urn so that they are endlessly united.

169-217 Wives and children of the fallen grieve their losses while the men chop down trees to construct the funeral pyres. Being the eldest, Aletes begins to tell stories to alleviate the mourners’ pain. After giving a record of grievous days in the history of Thebes, Aletes speculates that only one other day in the history of Thebes matches the slaughter of these warriors at the hands of Tydeus: the grieving of Niobe, daughter of Tantalus, after the deaths of her fourteen children and her husband in the same day (they were murdered by Artemis and Apollo). News of the severed treaty has not yet reached Argos, but when it does, Aletes surmises, blood will flow relentlessly, and many will lose their lives. Aletes concludes hopelessly that he will be one such victim, and that corrupt and reckless Eteocles is to blame.

218-259 Jove (Jupiter) has been watching all that has happened and summons Gradivus, the god of warfare to travel to Argos and ensure the elimination of the treaty with Thebes. Jove warns Gradivus that if any should stand in the way, he will destroy Thebes, Argos and all that oppose him, both gods and men. This threat stuns even the gods, and they are silent before him.

260-344 Gradivus (Mars), is filled with delight at this command, and excitedly turns to leave when Venus cuts him off. Venus entreats Gradivus to abandon Jove’s commands, as it would mean waging war against his own progeny (Venus and Gradivus conceived a daughter who was married to a Theban). Gradivus can bear it no longer, and attempts to console Venus by telling her that he has no power to change what Jove has ordered, but that he will stand by Thebes and assist them during the battle with Argos. Jupiter’s wrath falls on earth in the form of lightning bolts, and Tydeus continues his journey across the Argive plain. As he travels through Grecian towns, he tells the story of his ambush at the hands of Eteocles. Mars (Gradivus) and Rumor aid in the story’s distribution.

345-406 Adrastus is at a chance meeting with the leading council of Argos, when Tydeus enters, screaming for war as he retells the story of his ambush. Polynices approaches Tydeus, appalled by his brother’s barbarism, and proceeds to take full responsibility, asking the people of Argos to stay out of the conflict. Polynices uses this veiled invitation to ignite the anger of the people, who quickly assemble their forces to fight at his side against Thebes. Adrastus encourages the people to do away with their distress and preserve their good sense. The people of Argos surround Tydeus and bind his wounds as he retells the story of his ambush yet again.

407-419 The sun sets and night arrives. Peace comes to all but Eteocles and Adrastus, who cannot sleep.

420-574 Gradivus (the god of war), travels throughout the land, planting a passion for war in the hearts of men. Rumor travels before him, spreading both truth and falsity. The sun rises, and Adrastus paces his inner chamber deliberating whether he should engage in warfare or make an attempt at peace. Desiring foresight, Adrastus enlists the prophet, Amphiaraus, and his accomplice, Melampus. The prophets read signs of calamity and misfortune in the entrails of animals, and resolve to climb Mt. Aphesas where they pray to Jupiter (Jove). Amphiaraus asks Jupiter to send thunder on his left as a sign of victory for Argos, and birds on his right as a sign of failure. After some time, Melampus notices that there are no birds of prophecy in the sky, only birds of death. Amphiaraus discerns a group of swans that he believes to represent Thebes, and a group of eagles that likewise represent Argos. He witnesses the eagles attacking the swans, and surmises that Argos will claim victory. But then an evil omen arrives, bringing death to the conquerors and leaving none alive. Amphiaraus recognizes this sign, and immediately understands who is to die. Disconcerted by the omen, the prophets shudder with fear and grief. A brief lament is presented, citing man’s desire to known the future as the cause of evil. Amphiaraus tears his robes and decides to keep the prophecy hidden from the people of Argos, hiding himself in darkness. Melampus remains silent for twelve days.

575-677 Gradivus continues to travel the countryside, invoking bitterness and hatred among its people. The sharpening of dull swords and the donning of rusted armor mark the transition from a time of peace to a time of war. The war-hungry Capaneus stands before the gates of Amphiaraus’ home and furiously questions the necessity of waiting for the word of a prophet when the people are already armed and prepared for battle. This threat draws Amphiaraus from his home, and he proceeds to expose the prophecy regarding Argos, all the while refusing to reveal Capaneus’ fate (which Apollo has commanded as a penalty for Capaneus’ hatred of the gods). Amphiaraus tells the people that the gods oppose them, and gives report of the omen that he witnessed on Mt. Aphesas. Capaneus accuses Amphiaraus of cowardice, proclaiming that men created gods out of fear and pitying Amphiaraus’ dependence on them. The people applaud in support, and night falls.

678-end Argia can no longer stand to hear Polynices’ moaning, and retreats to Adrastus’ palace with her infant son, Thessander. Adrastus embraces her, and Argia explains that she cannot sleep or stop weeping because of her husband’s moaning. Knowing the cure, she begs Adrastus for war, citing her love for Polynices and their child as grounds for the unpleasant decision. Adrastus kisses her and promises war in due time, citing the need for preparation. The sun rises, and Adrastus is filled with anxiety.

1-164 After three years, the council is finally prepared to begin the war. Bellona (Enyo), the goddess of war, raises a torch and throws a spear at the Theban battlements. Entering Argos’ camp, she proceeds to arm the men and fill them with courage. Families bid tearful farewells to their soldiers as the men don their armor. Adrastus, though hesitant, marches among his men, content to die in battle. His beloved horse, Arion pulls him forward. A list of the neighboring cities is presented, each of them providing soldiers. Among them are Larissa, Prosymna, Phlius, Media, Neris, Cleonae, Thyrea, Sicyon, Elisson, Corinth, and Cenchreus. From these cities, three thousand men in all join Adrastus’ army. Adrastus advances, followed by Polynices (supported by a number of Thebans), who has been given rule over the ranks of Aegion, Arene and Troezen. His thoughts are consumed with Thebes and his family’s embrace, but he sees Argia in a far-off tower and turns his thoughts back to Argos. Tydeus, fully healed, walks before the entire army. Reports of the war have also brought troops from Aetolia, Pylenë, Pleuron, Calydon, Olenos, and Chalcis. Tydeus’ furious anger has made him a threat equivalent to Polynices. Peloponnesian recruits form another unit, while a further list of volunteers is cataloged. Hippomedon brings his army to Adrastus’ side, and a subsequent list of comrades is provided.

165-186 Capaneus arrives, and his catalog of armor is described, as well as the birthplaces of the men in his army. The story of Thamyris (a Thracian minstrel) is used to mirror the fate of a character in Greek mythology who, like Capaneus, despised the gods.

187-245 Amphiaraus is conflicted, but a Fate named Atropos overthrows his hesitancy. To assert her superiority, Amphiaraus’ wife, Eriphyle, has managed to obtain the cursed necklace of Harmonia from Polynices, who used it as a bribe to win Amphiaraus’ support in the war. The Fates warn Amphiaraus that the necklace will be the cause of his death, but he is innocent to the fact that his wife now owns it. Tisiphone rejoices in this dark twist of fortune. Amphiaraus’ catalog of armor is described, as well as the cities forming his army. Among them are the cities of Amyclae, Pylos, Malea, Caryae, Pharis, Cytherean Messë, Elis and Pisa. The size of the army is so massive that their numbers have become incalculable.

246-344 Impatient to gain a reputation, Parthenopaeus (the youngest of the seven against Thebes) amasses an army of his own to join the war. His mother, Atalanta, would most certainly stand against his decision, but is unaware of his involvement. Parthenopaeus is so handsome, that at one time the goddess Diana forgave him for trespassing her fields and armed him with weapons from Crete. As he grows up, Parthenopaeus is filled with a longing for war, so much so that he feels shame for not being experienced in combat. An inventory of Parthenopaeus’ armor and weapons is taken, and then he mounts his horse for battle with the Arcadian army at his side. Towns and villages are emptied, and a list of the different groups within the Arcadian race is observed. The adjoining town of Mycenae does not send any support because of a similar battle for the throne between two brothers, Atreus and Thyestes. Statius uses this example to parallel the betrayal theme in the relationship between Polynices and Eteocles. Atalanta hears of her son’s involvement in the war and rushes home to plead with Parthenopaeus in an attempt to have him back down. She cites the fact that he is much too young, and suggests that his honor will be greater if he waits until he is older. But Parthenopaeus and the rest of the Arcadian officers console her, and she presents him to Adrastus.

345-645 Back in Thebes, the people reluctantly mobilize for war. They fear that their king is insane, and lament their hopeless position. Rumors begin to spread through the countryside that the Argive army is drawing near, and a list of cities that are believed to have fallen is presented. The queen of the woodland choir races toward Thebes with a three-pronged torch and begins crying out to Bacchus (Dionysius) about the injustice that his people have suffered at the hands of an unrighteous king. She then prophecies that Eteocles and Polynices will meet like two bulls born of the same blood (of which Eteocles is the most unfavorable), and will kill each other, leaving another to reign in their place. The spirit of Bacchus leaves the queen, and all is silent. Terrified by the queen’s prophecy, Eteocles turns to Tiresias the prophet for insight. Tiresias explains that his technique for communicating with the gods is not through divination of any sort, but by raising the spirits of the dead, and resolves to contact the spirit of Laius. Because of its history of bloodshed, Tiresias selects a field next to Diana’s forest, and there offers nine libations of honey, milk and wine to the dead. Altars are built for Hecate, the Furies, Infernal Jove (the king of hell) and Ceres. The cattle are slaughtered, and Tiresias’ daughter, Manto, throws their blood and organs into the flames as an offering. As the flames rise, Tiresias solicits Infernal Jove to release the souls of hell and allow them to travel to earth with the help of Hecate, Arcas and Tisiphone. Tiresias and Manto are unafraid, but Eteocles is seized with terror. There is no response, so Tiresias petitions the goddesses a second time, and threatens them by claiming that he has the ability to summon a deity whose name is unpronounceable; a deity that is feared even by the deities of the underworld. Manto interrupts him by announcing that the souls of the dead have arrived, and describes for her blind father the vision that she is witnessing through the open portal to hell. Tiresias assures Manto that there is no need to tell him of these things, as he saw them himself before he went blind. He commands her to sprinkle milk four times and command the spirits of the dead to come and go, and as she does, she describes their features and clothing to Tiresias. The first to arrive is Cadmus (founder of Thebes), followed by Harmonia and a brawling assembly of soldiers hungry for each other’s blood. The list continues as the ancient dead of Thebes rise from the lake of blood, and Tiresias commands Manto to stop singing. The signs lead him to predict that Thebes will win the war. Eteocles, Manto and Tiresias are approached by the restless spirits of the fallen assassins that Eteocles commissioned to kill Tydeus, and Tiresias explains that their death was not Eteocles’ fault. As the spirits of the dead drink the blood of the sacrifices, Laius emerges alone and Tiresias attempts to bribe him into revealing the future by assuring him that Eteocles is innocent, and promising Laius a place among the gods of hell. Laius agrees, and, after asking Tiresias why he has been chosen from among the many spirits that are present, proceeds to assure them of Thebes’ triumph. When he is finished, Laius departs, leaving Eteocles and Tiresias to deliberate over the obscurities in Laius’ speech.

646-721 The Argive army reaches Nemea. Liber (Bacchus, Dionysius) notices that the Thebans are completely unprepared for the attack, and orders Fear, Anger, Ardor, Madness and Valor to take to the front lines while he hinders the Argive army. Bacchus petitions the Naiads (river nymphs) to drain the Argive river and bring drought to the land, promising them protection from the Centaurs and Fauns that ravage them at night. The nymphs agree, and the Lerna, Lyrceus, Inachus, Charadrus, Erasinus and Asterion rivers are dried up. Only the Langia River is left untouched.

722-745 The Argives, starved for water, begin to decelerate in their journey to Thebes. The army begins to fall apart, and Adrastus sends scouts to look for water. None can be found.

745-801 Hypsipyle appears before the Argives, and Adrastus begs her for water, promising to pay her back with an altar built in her name. Hypsipyle begins to recapitulate her past, but stops herself short and agrees to lead the Argives to the Langia River. Not wanting to slow their progress, Hypsipyle removes Opheltes (King Lycurgus of Nemea’s infant son) from her side and places him on the ground. The baby proceeds to wander off.

802-end The army follows Hypsipyle into the forest. Adrastus hears the sound of rushing water and sends the message to the rest of the troops. The men storm the river, trampling each other in the process, and drink their fill. One of the kings promises to honor the Langia River if, on their way back, it opens its shorelines to them once more.

1-47 Book 5 begins with the Argives at the edge of the Langia River. Having slaked their thirst, the Argive army reassembles its ranks, and sets out with their morale restored. Adrastus leans on Polynices’ spear and asks Hypsipyle (who’s identity is still hidden from them) where she is from, noting that she shows signs of divinity. Hypsipyle tells them her name, and confesses that she is held in servitude to King Lycurgus. The men are silent at first, but Adrastus continues to interrogate her, requesting that she tell them her story.

48-467 Hypsipyle unfurls the tragic story of her life. She once lived in the town of Lemnos, across the sea from Thrace. Lemnos was vibrant, wealthy and full of life, but the gods decided to unsettle its people because they had forgotten to honor Venus. In her anger, Venus brought fear to the people of Lemnos, and filled the village with serpents. Conflicts pitted families against one another, and happiness was replaced with sorrow. The people of Lemnos decided to attack Thrace, their prideful, callous neighbors, and the men embarked on their mission across the sea. One night, a woman named Polyxo was possessed with terror, and went through the village, waking everyone and assembling a meeting. Drawing her sword, Polyxo urged the women of Lemnos (whose husbands have been gone for three years), to take their revenge by murdering their sons and husbands. In Polyxo’s dreams, Venus, with sword in hand, explained that the men of Lemnos hated their wives and had taken new wives in Thrace. Venus left the sword on Polyxo’s couch, and when she awoke, it was seated beside her. The women were filled with hatred and made a pact that was witnessed by Enyo (the goddess of war) and Ceres (the god of agriculture, grain and motherly love) in the groves beneath Mount Minerva. The women began to murder the infant males of Lemnos, and Hypsipyle was filled with terror. As the men arrived on their ships, they traveled to the altars to burn incense. But their gods had left the island, and a deep darkness washed over the land. The men began to indulge themselves with a banquet, and their wives stood beside them in their finest clothes. Venus allowed them one final night of tranquility, and as the evening came to a close, Sleep poured exhaustion on the men of the town, leaving the women awake to prepare for the slaughter. Hypsipyle recounts the death of Helymus, who was stabbed in the back by his disloyal wife, Gorge, as he embraced her neck. A list of the murders that Hypsipyle witnessed follows; among those killed are her two half brothers, Cydon and Crenaeus, and her fiancé, Gyas. Seeing Alcimede carrying the severed head of her own father, Hypsipyle was filled with fear and rushed to the house of her father, Thoas, who was still awake. Hypsipyle quickly explained what was happening, and insisted that Thoas follow her. As they walked through the village, they saw the countless bodies of the murdered men lying in pools of blood. Suddenly, Bacchus (Thyoneus) appeared, his face wet with tears. He explained to them that he had petitioned Jove to avert this disaster, but that Jove had already granted favor to his daughter, Venus. Bacchus encouraged Hypsipyle to lead her father along the city walls to the sea, where she was to entrust him to the waves. After promising that he would then assuage her anxiety, Bacchus disappeared and took the form of a light that led them through the village. Hypsipyle hid her father in the hold of a ship and, bidding a tearful farewell, ventured to the cliffs as the sun rose over the land. As Venus and the Furies departed, the women of Lemnos were filled with shame and disgrace, and quickly burned and buried the bodies of the murdered men. After a great military victory, the men of Lemnos had been killed not by the sea or enemy hands, but by their own wives and daughters. Hypsipyle lit a fire in the central room and proceeded to burn her fathers’ belongings, hoping that no one would discover his empty coffin. Believing Thoas to be dead, the women of Lemnos made Hypsipyle ruler of the kingdom. They all continued to grieve, and Polyxo was detested for her despicable actions. Some time later, Jason, son of Pelias, arrived by sea with his men, the Argonauts. Afraid that the men might be Thracians, the women of Lemnos retreated to their homes to hide, brandishing swords and clothing themselves in armor. A storm struck the ship, and as rain poured on the sailors, the women of Lemnos pelted them with rocks and flaming arrows. A sudden flash of lightning revealed the sheer size and power of the men on board, and the women were filled with fear (a list of the crew members is presented). Finally, Jason held the branch of Pallas over the water and begged for peace, and the storm was silent. As their ship reached the shore, the men disembarked, fifty in all (a second list of crew members is presented). Venus and Cupid arrived to put love in the hearts of the women of Lemnos, and the women rushed to welcome their new guests. Jason took Hypsipyle for his wife against her will, and she bore him twin sons (Hypsipyle confesses that she does not know if they are still alive; she has not seen them for twenty years).

468-498 After some time, Jason gave the command for his men to leave, and they abandoned their new wives and families. A rumor spread through the village that Hypsipyle had helped her father escape, and that he was now ruling in Chios with his brother. Hypsipyle attempted to run away in the night, but was kidnapped by pirates and taken as a slave.

499-637 Retelling her story has allowed Hypsipyle to alleviate her grief, but she suddenly realizes that she has forgotten the infant, Opheltes. Exhausted by his frolicking, Opheltes lies down and falls asleep. Meanwhile, a giant serpent, sacred to Jupiter, searches the land for water, and its tail inadvertently kills the sleeping child. Hypsipyle fears something terrible has happened, and searches fiercely through the plains, but cannot find Opheltes. The men hear Hypsipyle’s wailing, and Parthenopaeus is sent to investigate. As he returns, the serpent makes its way towards the men. Hippomedon throws a large rock at it, but misses. Capaneus threatens the serpent, promising death, and throws his spear through its mouth, pinning it to the ground. The serpent pulls the spear out of the ground with its tail, and retreats the to the cave containing Jupiter’s shrine. Once inside, it lies down and dies. Jupiter prepares to kill Capaneus in retaliation, but decides to spare his life that he may suffer a more severe penalty in the future. Not content to simply let the event pass unchecked, Jupiter sends a single bolt of lightning from heaven, splitting the crest on Capaneus’ helmet. Hypsipyle finds the child at last, but is too late. He has been torn to pieces by the serpent, and she lifts his body to her breast and cries. Hypsipyle laments the loss of Archemorus (Opheltes), and begs the Argives to take her life so that she will not have to face King Lycurgus. The Argives begin to mourn the death of Opheltes.

638-end News of his son’s death reaches King Lycurgus of Nemea. Fearing the response of the gods, Lycurgus listens to the warnings at the altar, and is told that the first death of the Dircean war will be his. Lycurgus journeys to the fields in search of Hypsipyle, and upon seeing her, draws his sword to kill her. As he approaches, Tydeus stands in front of him to protect her. Tydeus is backed up by Capaneus, Hippomedon, Parthenopaeus and King Adrastus. Amphiaraus commands the men to sheathe their swords on the grounds that they are one people, and orders Tydeus to be the first. But Tydeus cannot control his temper, and insults Lycurgus for attempting to avenge his son’s death, reasoning that the death of a single child has saved the entire Argive army. Lycurgus responds sarcastically through bridled anger, commending them for their warfare against their own people, and encouraging them to do away with familial loyalty. He cites Jove’s (Jupiter’s) anger against the Argives, and promises that the all-powerful god’s anger will be meted out in time. Looking behind him, Lycurgus sees his people calling for an uprising: for the death of Lycurgus and the destruction of Jove’s shrines. Adrastus rides quickly to the city by chariot, and presents Hypsipyle to them, arguing that Lycurgus should not be killed. Bacchus, hearing Hypsipyle’s cries, has brought her twin boys to Nemea, where Lycurgus greeted them with warmth and generosity before hearing the news of his son’s death. The boys rush through the crowd and hug their mother, weeping uncontrollably, and as Hypsipyle holds them and cries, a celebration begins in Nemea. When it is finally silent, Amphiaraus suggests that everyone sheathe their weapons and hold a funeral for Opheltes (whose destiny is to be renamed Archemorus) that his honor might be carried on. Libations are poured out to the gods, and Amphiaraus encourages Lycurgus and his wife, Eurydice not to mourn, as their departed son is a god, and would not have wished decrepitude to be his lot in life.

1-14 Book 6 opens with the Argive army in Nemea after the death of King Lycurgus’ son Opheltes, and the reunification of Hypsipyle with her twin sons, Thoas and Euneos. In accordance with Greek custom, the Argives sanctify the death of Opheltes by organizing games in his honor. The games begin, and Hercules is the first to compete.

15-83 The men of Argos join together to compete unclothed. As the sun rises, the piercing cries of Lycurgus and Eurydice are heard in the streets. Their grief is so great, that it draws the Argives to begin weeping the loss of Archemorus as well. Adrastus attempts to console Lycurgus, but to no avail. An ornate casket is constructed for the child’s body, and he is eulogized as though he were a man of great renown. Lycurgus orders the destruction of all of Ophelte’s belongings in a desperate attempt to erase the memory of Archemorus from his mind.

84-248 In a different place, the Argives build a funeral pyre for Jupiter’s sacred snake. In order to construct it, they cut down an unspoiled section of forest. One pyre is built to appease heavyhearted spirits of the underworld, and the other is built to placate the divine beings of heaven. The signal is given, and the mourning commences. The procession nears the funeral pyre, and Eurydice laments Archemorus’ death, expressing her bitterness against the gods for the death of her son being first in the war for Thebes. Eurydice places all blame on Hypsipyle for her negligence, and grieves the fact that she herself was unknown to her infant son as he grew to love his nurse. She begs the men to sacrifice Hypsipyle (who is also mourning) on the funeral pyre as payment for her carelessness, but then resorts to asking that she be banished from the funeral procession. King Lycurgus commits his scepter, his long hair and his badges of Jove to the flames, citing Jove’s treacherous deceit and disloyalty. The pyre is lit, and Greek kings circle the fire three times to honor the departed infant (Mars watches from the heavens, and tries to decide which army he will assist). A second pyre is lit on which living animals are sacrificed. The fire is put out, and nine days pass. A great stone monument is erected to hold Opheltes’ ashes.

249-295 People gather from near and far, and the games begin with a triumphant parade that includes bronze statues of the Argives’ ancestors. A long list of the effigies is provided, and the greatest among the men are called to compete with each other.

296-354 A list of the riders and their horses is presented. They are led by Polynices (riding Adrastus’ horse, Arion), who is followed by Amphiaraus, Admetus, Hippomadus, Chromis, and the sons of Hypsipyle.

355-388 Apollo captivates the Muses as he sings of the origins of the heavens and the earth. Glancing down, he sees two of his faithful adherents (Amphiaraus and Admetus) competing against one another in a chariot race. Apollo is aware of their destinies: Admetus will live to be old, but Amphiaraus is doomed to die shortly. Moved to tears, Apollo visits the games and fills the sky with his radiant trail of brightness.

389-548 Positions are chosen for the start of the race, and the riders and their horses prepare for the competition. The race begins, and problems arise as Arion searches for Adrastus, his rightful master, and Polynices fights to hold the reigns. Details of the race are presented with various riders taking the lead and then falling behind. Fortune intervenes and Thoas crashes. Chromis and Hippodamus lock wheels and Hippodamus’ chariot is flipped. Chromis’ horses give in to hunger, and he quits the race. Wishing Amphiaraus to win the race, Apollo conjures up a giant serpent that causes Arion to lift his shoulders in the air and throw Polynices from his chariot. Statius suggests that it would have been better for Polynices to die in this instance so that warfare would be averted, but Tisiphone denies his death. Amphiaraus wins the race and is awarded the golden cup of Hercules and an elaborately decorated cloak. Adrastus gives Polynices a slave girl.

549-645 Adrastus organizes a foot race. The competitors include Idas, Alcon, Phaedimus, Dymas and Parthenopaeus, whose entrance silences the crowds. Parthenopaeus, being the son of Atalanta, is famous for his speed. Details of the race are presented with various runners taking the lead and then falling behind. Parthenopaeus leads the race, followed closely by Idas. His long hair (which he has dedicated to Diana), waves behind him, and as they near the finish line, Idas uses it to pull himself ahead of Parthenopaeus, winning the race. The Arcadians prepare to defend Parthenopaeus’ name, while he himself grieves his loss. Adrastus demands that there be another race between only Parthenopaeus and Idas, and that there be not cheating allowed. Parthenopaeus petitions Diana, begging her to bring him victory so that the Arcadians will not suffer defeated morale. She grants him success, and Parthenopaeus is awarded a horse while Idas is given a shield. The remaining runners receive quivers from Lycia.

646-730 Adrastus organizes a discus competition. The competitors step forward, but Hippomedon appears and all but Phlegyas and Menestheus leave. Phlegyas’ first throw soars through the air, warranting the cheers of the spectators. During his second throw, Fortune intervenes and causes him to drop the discus. Menestheus’ first throw soars beyond Phlegyas’ marker, and a new arrow is used to mark the distance. Hippomedon’s throw passes those of Phlegyus and Menestheus by a massive amount, and Adrastus awards him with a tiger skin. Menetheus receives arrows and a bow, and Phlegyas receives the sword of Pelasgus. Adrastus then organizes a boxing match.

731-825 Capaneus volunteers for the boxing match, and asks for a challenger that he can legally destroy so that his name will not be tarnished. Alcidamas steps forward, and Capaneus taunts him by calling for another contender. But Alcidamas remains, so the fight begins. Capaneus is the first to attack, and quickly wears himself down. Alcidamas, smaller, but more skillful, conserves his energy and lands a mighty blow on Capaneus’ forehead, causing him to bleed. Furious, Capaneus charges Alcidamas and increases his effort. The two fighters become tired and long for respite, but Alcidamas continues to conserve his energy, and lands a second blow. Adrastus, aware of Capaneus’ impending rage, commands the others to hold him back lest Alcidamas be killed. Tydeus and Hippomedon grab his hands, but can barely hold him back as he screams for blood. He is eventually led away, and the Laconians mock his words as they congratulate Alcidamas.

826-910 A wrestling match is organized, and Tydeus comes forward, having trained under Mercury during times of peace. A loudmouth from Cleonae named Agylleus challenges him, but Tydeus remains confident because Agylleus (though much larger than Tydeus) is fat and sagging. The match begins, and the two grapple with each other. Tydeus is stronger, and pulls his opponent’s legs out from under him, but Agylleus lands on top of Tydeus and almost crushes him. Tydeus proceeds to move out from underneath Agylleus and then lifts him in the air, evoking thunderous applause from the crowd, as he throws him to the ground. Tydeus pins the giant, and Agylleus leaves, filled with grief at his loss. Tydeus is awarded a palm and armor, the latter of which he forwards to Agylleus, who has already left the games.

911-923 A sword fighting event is organized, and Agreus and Polynices step forward. But before the match can begin, Adrastus calls for a truce, lest an unnecessary death occur. He awards them both golden helmets, but garlands Polynices’ helmet and proclaims him the winner. The Fates take no notice of this sign.

924-end The crowd urges Adrastus to join the games, and he concedes to shoot an arrow at a distant ash tree. His arrow ricochets off of the tree and returns, landing beside him. While the men search for a rational answer, Statius reveals that it is an omen promising Adrastus’ safe return home as the sole survivor of the seven against Thebes.

1-89 Book 7 opens with Jupiter sending Mercury to the house of Mars so that Mercury may inform him of Jupiter’s anger. Jupiter commands mars to begin the war for Thebes. Mercury arrives at the house of Mars and Haste, Wickedness, Fear, Rage, Deception, Discord, Innumerable Threats, Valor, Madness and Death are all present at the gates of Mars’ domain. Surrounding his altar are fires, blood and captives, all products of war. Mars descends in his chariot with hordes of plunder and prisoners, and Mercury bows in respect as Mars asks him what the purpose of his visit is. Mercury delivers his message, and without hesitation, Mars leaves to complete Jupiter’s (Jove’s) request. Jupiter’s anger is abated.

90-103 The games have ended, and Adrastus pours wine on the ground and gives a final farewell to Archemorus, vowing to fight Thebes.

104-225 Mars comes down on the Argive camp in Nemea, but sends Panic ahead of him to prepare the way. Panic tricks the Argives into believing that Thebes is attacking prematurely. Meanwhile, Bacchus turns toward Thebes and pleads with Jove, asking him why Thebes must be destroyed. Jupiter explains that there is nothing that can be done to change the situation, but the promises that the Aonians will not be completely destroyed. Bacchus withdraws, relieved.

226-233 A messenger informs Eteocles that the Argive army is advancing. He describes all who are involved and the weapons that they are carrying.

234-397 The people of Thebes are worried as they prepare for battle. Antigone is standing on a tower in the city walls with Phorbis. She asks him whether or not he believes the Theban army will be strong enough to counter the attack, and then asks him for a list of the men and their weapons. Phorbis describes the generals Dryas (who is leading an army of archers), Ocalea, Medeon, Nisa, Thisbe, Eurymedon, Erythrae, Amphion, Lapithaon and his son, Alatreus. Phorbis reminisces about older wars. Eteocles begins to command his troops, assigning tasks to various units.

398-423 Adrastus’ army continues to march towards Thebes. Multiple omens appear, foreshadowing the cataclysmic outcome of the war, but no one heeds the signs.

424-451 The Argive army reaches the Asopos River, which is flooding. They cross the river, led by Hippomedon, and set up camp overlooking a field that they believe to be a perfect position, on a hill directly across a plain from Thebes.

452-469 Night settles on Thebes, and the entire city is filled with terror. They both fear and desire daylight. Tisiphone infects both camps, stirring the hatred within Eteocles and Polynices.

470-563 Jocasta travels to the Argive camp with an olive branch to meet with the Argives, begging them not to go to war with Thebes. The men are moved by her words, but Tydeus rises and once again incites hatred in the Argive army with his speech.

564-627 Tisiphone incites Bacchus' tigers by whipping them with vipers, and they charge through the fields, attacking Amphiaraus and Idas. Aconteus assaults the tigers with arrows and a spear, killing them. Several warriors exit the gates of Thebes and approach the Argive army where they find Aconteus boasting of his kills. Phygeus (a Theban hero) kills Aconteus to avenge the deaths of Bacchus’ tigers. Jocasta flees past the armies, and Tydeus draws his sword and rushes into battle. The battle begins.

628-end Several warriors on each side are killed. Among the dead are Sybaris (slain by Hippomedon) and Periphas (slain by Menoeceus). A Bacchic priest named Eunaeus rushes into battle clad in armor, begging the opposing armies to stop their fighting. Capaneus, delighting in the unfair nature of the situation, throws his spear through the priest and kills him. Polynices is upset because he thinks that Eteocles is to blame for the priest’s death. Amphiaraus, filled with power from Phoebus (Apollo), charges into battle, slaughtering Phlegyas, Phyleus, Clonis, Chremetaon, Chromis, Iphinous, Lycorus (a priest of Apollo), and Alcathoüs. Hypseus watches as Amphiaraus destroys these men and longs to turn the tables. He pulls a sword out of the Asopos River and prays to the river to grant him strength. Phoebus (Apollo) deflects the swing of Hypseus’ sword, causing him to kill his chariot driver, Herses. Apollo takes over his chariot, meeting Amphiaraus in the middle of the battlefield where he speaks with him and urges him to use his life to earn renown (he knows that Amphiaraus is to die in the battle). Amphiaraus’ last request is that Apollo disciplines his irreverent wife and care for his son. Apollo leaves the chariot, and the earth cracks open, swallowing Amphiaraus who drives his chariot straight into hell.

1-126 Amphiaraus stands on the banks of the river Styx, surrounded by light. Pluto recognizes that he should not be there, and, filled with anger at being made a part of the war, tells Tisiphone that he wants the following things to happen: that two brothers would fight, that one man would behave like an animal and chew his enemy’s head, that one man would prevent the proper burial of others, and that one man who mocks the gods would be charred by Jove’s lightning. Amphiaraus approaches Pluto with a withered olive branch, and Pluto threatens him. Amphiaraus asks that punishment be reserved for his wife, and requests that he be allowed to remain in hell as a shade, unharmed.

127-217 The opposing armies leave the area where Amphiaraus has fallen through the earth. Palaemon informs Adrastus of Amphiaraus’ fate and suggests that they leave the battle because the earth itself has foreshadowed victory for Thebes. Mopsus and Actor arrive and repeat this same message to Adrastus, at which point the rest of the army is filled with fear and retreats from the battlefield against the orders of their commanders. Their morale is low, and they sing lamentations for Amphiaraus, doubting the presence and support of the gods.

218-258 This ordeal causes the opposite response in Thebes, and they begin to celebrate, encouraged by Amphiaraus’ death. Oedipus emerges and enters the festivities, thrilled at the tragic nature of the war.

259-341 Adrastus listens to the celebration in Thebes and is saddened by the loss of Amphiaraus. Thiodamas (son of Amphiaraus) is chosen as the new Apollonian priest. After being named successor, Thiodamas erects two altars: one to Juno, and one to the absent corpse of his father, and requests Juno’s aid.

342-372 The Theban commanders are each assigned to a city gate: Creon to Ogygia, Eteocles to Neistae, Haemon to Homoloidae, Hypseus to Proetiae, Dryas to Electrae, Eurymedon to Hypsistae and Menoeceus to Dircaea.

373-654 Statius calls on Apollo to give him strength so that he can tell of the deaths that are about to occur. The battle begins with Mars standing in the middle of the field, inciting the soldiers to rage. The men charge each other and many die, among them: Menalcas (killed by Hypseus), Phaedimus (killed by Amyntas), Iphis (killed by Acamas), Argus (killed by Hypseus) and Abas (killed by Pheres). Haemon and Tydeus are recognized as the heroes of the battle. Tydeus chases several Theban soldiers and dismembers Aon with a rock. He proceeds to kill Pholus and Chromis, and spears two nameless Helicaonian warriors. Haemon chops Butës’ head in half, and proceeds to kill Hypanis, Polites, Hyperenor and Damasus. Tydeus confronts Haemon who begins to lose strength as Athena leaves him. Haemon offers his life to Athena, and she blocks Tydeus’ spear. Haemon retreats from battle and withdraws to the city. Tydeus is filled with anger and stabs Prothoüs, pinning him to his horse. Atys (betrothed to Ismene) rushes into battle and slays many enemies, stealing their armor and weapons and bringing them to Thebes. Because he is a foreigner, he is unaware of Tydeus’ power. Tydeus throws a dart into Atys’ groin, and believing him to be dead, leaves. Menoeceus rescues Atys’ dying body. Ismene tells Antigone of a dream that she had in which she and Atys are separated by flames. At this point, the guards bring Atys’ body into the house, and he dies staring into Ismene’s eyes.

655-757 Tydeus leads his men forward and mocks the retreating Theban soldiers. Eteocles rides by and Tydeus shouts a challenge at him. In response, Eteocles shoots an arrow that is blocked by Tydeus. Tydeus hurls a spear back at Eteocles that is deflected, hitting Phlegyas and killing him. Eteocles retreats. Tydeus gives chase, slashing his way through the Theban ranks. He rushes into the thick of the Theban troops and is pierced by arrows. Most of his armor falls off, and rocks pummel him. A spear is hurled by Melanippus that mortally wounds Tydeus. As the men rejoice, Hopleus offers Tydeus a spear, and with his fading strength, he hurls it at Melanippus and mortally wounds him in return. The Argives drag Tydeus’ to the side of the field where he curses his dying body and denies his own burial rites. He sends Hippomedon, Parthenopaeus and Capaneus to retrieve Melanippus’ body. Capaneus finds Melanippus’ body and brings it to the Argive camp where Melanippus’ head is cut off, and handed to Tydeus.

758-end Athena descends to bring Tydeus fame as he dies, but she finds him with Tisiphone, gnawing Melanippus’ severed head. Athena flees in disgust and purges her eyes in the streams of Ilissos.

1-85 Book 9 opens with the city of Thebes completely enraged by Tydeus’ gnawing on Melanippus' severed head. Eteocles is both saddened and encouraged by this loss, and uses the travesty as fuel for the fight against the Argive army. Polynices is made aware of Tydeus’ savage act, as well as his death, and contemplates killing himself, but is held back by his men.

86-403 Grabbing a spear, Eteocles screams an insult at Hippomedon (who is guarding Tydeus’ corpse), and then hurls the spear at him. It is deflected by his shield, but injures him slightly, and he gradually begins to lose strength. Onslaughts of troops arrive fighting for Tydeus’ body. Among those who fall to his sword are Polites, Mopsus, Cydon, Phalanthus, and Eryx. Leonteus tries to reach in and grab Tydeus’ hair while Hippomedon is fighting off the charging infantry, but Hippomedon sees him and chops off his arm. Tisiphone appears in the form of Halys and badgers Hippomedon for protecting Tydeus’ corpse. She convinces him to abandon the body (leaving his men to guard it), and leads him into the thick of the battle to die. Tisiphone takes on her evil form and disappears. The Tyrians (Thebans) gain control of Tydeus’ body, and begin to disfigure it. Hippomedon returns, knowing that he will surely die, but battles against his enemies relentlessly. He then climbs on Tydeus’ horse and kills a great number of men on his way to the Ismenos River; his men follow him. Many more Theban and Argive heroes die along the way, among them are Ion, Chromis, Hypseus, and Linus. A slaughter ensues at the riverbanks, and Argipus, Sages, Agenor, Capetus Agyrtes and Hippomedon’s horse are all killed. Hippomedon lets go of his reigns and pursues his enemies on foot, killing Nomius, Mimas, Lichas, Lycetus, Thespiades, Theron, Gyas, Erginus, Herses, and Cretheus. Crenaeus, grandson of the ruler of the Ismenos River, is killed by Hippomedon while defending the river. Crenaeus’ mother, Ismenis, hears the news of her son’s death, and charges into the water in search of his corpse. Ismenis finds the body and brings it to shore, where she laments his death and calls on her father, Ismenos, for help.

404-521 Ismenos replies to her prayers by flooding the riverbanks. Ismenis directs him to Hippomedon, and Ismenos, filled with rage, accuses the gods of injustice, and vows to kill Hippomedon. The Asopos and Ismenos Rivers combine to form a single, powerful body of moving water. Hippomedon, trapped by the waves, asks Ismenos why he is being killed, but is taken under before he receives an answer. Hippomedon cries out to Mars, and Juno, hearing his prayers, petitions Jove, who stops the waves.

522-569 The water draws back, and Hippomedon is thrown ashore, completely naked of his armor. He dies and a group of Phoenicians surrounds him. Among them is Hypseus, who approaches the corpse and takes of Hippomedon’s helmet. As he mocking Hippomedon’s dead body, Capaneus finds them, and, praying to his own hand for guidance, throws a spear through Hypseus. Capaneus holds up Hypseus’ armor, and offers it to the corpse of Hippomedon. The Greeks mourn the death of Hippomedon and the Thebans mourn the death of Hypseus.

570-669 Atalanta is stuck with an ominous nightmare in which her prized oak tree is torn apart after she returns from hunting. This is an omen foreshadowing the death her son, Parthenopaeus. She entreats Diana for help, and Diana leaves for Thebes but runs into to her brother, Apollo. Apollo explains that fate has already determined the death of Parthenopaeus, and there is nothing that he can do to stop it. Diana replies by telling Apollo that she will ensure he has a glorious death, and again departs for Thebes.

670-775 After the deaths of Hippomedon and Hypseus, their supporting squadrons face each other to finish the battle. Amongst them is the small and prepubescent Parthenopaeus, who is badly outmatched by the men he is fighting against. They take pity on him and refuse to kill him, but he pursues them, his quiver filled with arrows from Diana’s own. Diana sprays Parthenopaeus and his horses with a fragrant liquid that serves as a protective shield over them, and murmurs magical spells over him. Parthenopaeus begins to shoot arrows in every direction, slaying Coroebus, Cydon, Eurytion (whose eyes are shot out), Lamus, Lygdus, Aeolus, Euboa, and Thisbae. Parthenopaeus continues his rampage.

776-820 Amphion appears and begins to mock Parthenopaeus, who mocks them in return. Filled with anger, Amphion launches a spear that misses Parthenopaeus, leading him to charge the young man and his horse. Diana stands between them disguised as Parthenopaeus’ friend, Dorceus, and begs Parthenopaeus to leave. Parthenopaeus refuses, citing the need to kill Amphion and present his armor as an offering to Diana.

821-840 Venus expresses her displeasure with Diana’s intervention, and asks Gradivus (Mars) to interfere and send her away. Gradivus comes down from the sky and forces Diana to leave in shame.

841-end With Diana’s departure, Parthenopaeus begins to feels weak. Dryas appears, and Parthenopaeus realizes that he has run out of arrows. His courage gone, he calls out to Diana, but to no avail. Dryas throws a spear that wounds Parthenopaeus’ shoulder and destroys his bow, leaving him unarmed. A second spear is thrown, wounding Parthenopaeus’ horse. Dryas is struck and wounded by an unknown source and dies. The Argives rescue Parthenopaeus’ wounded body, but they are too late. He presents a lock of his hair to Dorceus and asks that his weapons be burned. Declaring that he has lost favor with Diana, Parthenopaeus dies.

1-48 Book 10 opens with a deep fog settling on the land while Eteocles formulates a defensive strategy with his troops. He commands them to encircle the Argive camp at night so that they cannot attack the city.

49-83 Peloponnesian women pray to Juno at the Argive temples for the safe return of their husbands and sons, crying out for Thebes to be destroyed with lightning. Juno hears them and, incensed by their cries of injustice, commands Iris to slaughter the Aonian (Theban) troops in their sleep.

84-346 Iris travels to the land of sleep (Bacchus’ domain), where she finds Sleep, Dark Rest, Forgetting, Sloth, Leisure, Silence, Pleasure, Labor, Love and Death within the courts. She finally finds Bacchus drunk on his couch, and asks him to put the Theban guards to sleep, which he does. The Greeks are also asleep, but theirs is not enchanted like that of the Thebans. Thiodamas (son of Amphiaraus) is given visions of the sleeping soldiers by Apollo, and, possessed by Juno, runs frantically to Adrastus’ tent to tell him. Adrastus commands Thiodamas to draft thirty men for his services, along with Agylleus (who brings ten men) and Actor (who also brings ten men). Capaneus refuses to help because Thiodamas’ knowledge was gained by supernatural means. Thiodamas, Agylleus, Actor and their men infiltrate the sleeping Theban camp and murder almost everyone. Among those killed are Ialmenus, Thamyris, Echechlus, Hebrus, and Calpetus. As daytime approaches, Thiodamas commands his men to leave, lest they be discovered. He offers the dead men as a sacrifice to Apollo, in return for his freedom.

347-448 Hopleus and Dymas (both Argive warriors) make an attempt to rescue the corpses of Tydeus and Parthenopaeus. Dymas requests light from Diana, and Diana opens the clouds, allowing the moon to shine on the dead bodies of Tydeus and Parthenopaeus. After rescuing the corpses, Hopleus and Dymas begin their journey back to the Argive camp, but are spotted by Amphion and Aepytus. Amphion throws a spear at them but misses. Aepytus throws his spear and kills Hopleus (who is carrying Tydeus). Dymas is captured, and the soldiers cut off his left hand, dragging Parthenopaeus’ body away from him. Amphion tries to extract information from Dymas, but Dymas kills himself before they can get any from him.

449-551 Amphion sends messengers to Eteocles. Thiodamas (son of Amphiaraus) has been selected as the new Apollonian priest. Amphion and his soldiers near the Argive camp, but are spotted by Capaneus. Capaneus alerts the army, and they chase Amphion and his men all the way to the city walls of Thebes. The gate is closed, but several men make it inside and are quickly killed. Among the dead are Panopeus, Oebalus, and Alcidamas. Acron (Theban) shuts the gates and Ormenus and Amyntor (Argives) are both killed. The Argive army begins an attack on the walls of Thebes. Antheus is killed during the attempt.

552-737 The city of Thebes is in complete panic and begins to doubt Eteocles, turning resentful towards him. A group of Thebans approach Tiresias, who commands another fire to be built so that he and Manto may seek advice from the gods. The gods reveal that Creon’s son, Menoeceus, must die if Thebes is to be saved. Virtue descends from heaven in the form of Manto, and meets Menoeceus on the ramparts of Thebes where she tells explains his destiny. After speaking with Menoeceus, Virtue ascends to heaven, and Menoeceus meets with Creon, who begs him to ignore the prophecy sent from heaven. Menoeceus lies to his father and tells him that he is going to aid Haemon and his troops. After Menoeceus departs, Creon realizes that he has been deceived.

738-755 Capaneus is smashing the walls of Thebes and pummeling Theban infantry with stones from a sling. He kills so many that his men believe he has been endowed with the strength of the deceased Argive champions Parthenopaeus, Amphiaraus, Hippomedon and Tydeus.

756-826 Menoeceus climbs to the top of the city wall and shouts to the fighting armies below, stopping the battle. He announces that he is sacrificing himself in order to save Thebes, and stabs himself through the throat with his own sword. As his body falls from the wall, Piety and Virtue carry it to the ground below. The Argive army backs off, and the Thebans take Menoeceus’ body inside the city gates. Creon’s wife laments the death of her son.

827-end Capaneus, exhausted by the fighting, climbs a ladder to the uppermost portion of the city wall and begins hurling insults at Thebes and her armies. He proceeds to mock the gods, and challenges Jupiter to stop him. The gods are filled with fury at Capaneus’ brash statements, and Jove sends a bolt of lightning from heaven that incinerates him.

1-56 Capaneus’ flaming body falls from the Theban walls and lands on the ground below. The citizens of Thebes come out of hiding, and the Argive army begins to panic after seeing the death of Capaneus. Agenor deploys his troops in a Theban counterattack. Eurymedon and his son, Alatreus, venture forth. Enyeus signals for the Argives to retreat and is killed by a flying arrow that pins his hand to his head.

57-118 Tisiphone is chided by Megaera for her involvement in the war. Megaera decides to join the fight and enters the Argive camp, commanding Tisiphone to plague Thebes.

119-135 Jove, upset by divine involvement in the war, tells all the gods in heaven to avert their eyes and stay out of the battle. The gods withdraw from the field.

136-204 Magaera visits Polynices in the form of Argia, his wife. Realizing that her image is a figment of his imagination, Polynices begins to go mad. As she is leaving, she hits him three times on his armor, inciting him to a bloodlust. Polynices approaches Adrastus and tells him of his desire to lead the men into battle for a final challenge. Adrastus is upset, and attempts to convince Polynices to calm down. Magaera transforms herself into Pherclus and gives Polynices an assortment of weapons, placing a helmet on his head so that he cannot hear Adrastus. She tells him that Eteocles has reached the city gates, and places him on a horse headed for Thebes.

205-238 Eteocles is offering a sacrifice to Jove for assistance, but Tisiphone intercepts the offering and sends it to hell. The fire burns through Eteocles’ body and melts his crown. The sacrificed bull rises and begins to run around.

239-314 Aepytus runs to Eteocles and announces the arrival of Polynices at the front gates. The king’s advisors entreat him not to go, claiming that Polynices is harmless. Creon approaches Eteocles and berates him for being an inefficient ruler. He then tells Eteocles to challenge Polynices so that he may atone for his mistakes as king. Eteocles prepares for battle and moves toward the gates.

315-353 After hearing about the impending battle between Eteocles and Polynices, Jocasta climbs to the wall above the gates and makes her grief public. Jocasta asks Eteocles why he is fighting his brother, and begs him to listen to her as his mother.

354-457 Antigone arrives with Actor and begins weeping, begging him to end the battle. She proceeds to lie to Polynices and tells him that Eteocles has withdrawn. This calms Polynices for a moment, but Tisiphone forces Jocasta to shove Eteocles through the front gates, and Eteocles challenges Polynices. The two brothers race toward each other and begin to fight. Although they are enemies, Adrastus approaches and begs Eteocles to stop the battle, offering to abdicate the throne in Argos in exchange for peace. The brothers do not listen and Adrastus flees.

458-496 In heaven, Piety laments the nature of man. She comes to earth (despite Jove’s earlier decree), and calms the soldiers’ rage. They are struck with guilt and begin to weep. Tisiphone arrives and sends Piety away.

497-579 As Piety withdraws, anger again fills the troops, and they long to see the brothers fight. Polynices and Eteocles throw spears at each other, but miss multiple times. Polynices finally throws a spear that pierces Eteocles’ horse. Polynices mistakes the horse’s blood for that of his brother. The horses collide, throwing Polynices and Eteocles through the air, and the brothers fight artlessly on foot. Polynices stabs Eteocles near the groin, and Eteocles draws back. Polynices mocks Eteocles for his weakness, and they begin to fight again. Losing strength, Eteocles falls to the ground, playing dead. Polynices approaches and takes the scepter from Eteocles’ hand. Eteocles stabs Polynices through the heart with his sword, and Polynices falls on top of him, crushing him to death with the weight of his armor. Statius laments the scale and savagery of the war.

580-633 Oedipus appears and Antigone (his daughter) leads him to his sons’ fallen corpses. Oedipus laments their hatred and eventual death. He searches for a sword so that he can kill himself, but finds none because Antigone has hidden their weapons.

634-647 Jocasta pulls the sword from the shrine of Laius and, cursing the gods, her marriage and her sons’ insanity, she leans against her bed and impales herself. Ismene (betrothed to Atys) cleans Jocasta’s fallen body. When she is done, she removes her girdle and searches for a tree where she can hang herself.

648-end Creon assumes the throne and banishes Oedipus from the land. Oedipus rebukes Creon and entreats him not to banish Antigone. As Oedipus leaves the room, Antigone begs Creon not to banish him from the land entirely, asking that he only be exiled from Thebes. As this is happening, the Argive army retreats.

1-32 Book 12 opens with dawn rising on the morning after the battle has ended. Citizens roam the field, looking through the mounds of dead bodies.

33-49 The people of Thebes continue to search the battlefield and mourn the loss of the dead.

50-104 Eteocles is not given a king’s burial, but is burned on a funeral pyre. Polynices is not burned. Creon arranges a special ceremony for his son’s (Menoeceus) funeral and decrees that no Argive soldier may receive proper burial.

105-290 A group of Argive widows, led by Argia, depart Argos to claim their dead. Among them are Deipyle (wife of Tydeus), Nealce (wife of Hippomedon) and Evadne (wife of Capaneus). Ornytus warns the women of Creon’s decree, and Argia commands all of the women to go to Athens to seek help. Menoetes and Argia continue on to Thebes. They pass through several Theban villages.

291-348 Juno escapes from Jove’s palace and visits Diana after requesting Athena to allow the Argive women safe travel. Diana shines light on Polynices cloak, and Argia runs to his fallen corpse. Argia laments his death and the fact that she cannot bury him.

349-463 Antigone approaches with the intent of finding Polynices’ (her brother’s) body. Antigone and Argia discuss Polynices death and cry over his body. Menoetes suggests that they begin the task of burning Polynices corpse, and the three of them throw his body on Eteocles’ flaming pyre. Guards from Thebes see the flames and rush the field, but Antigone and Argia stand their ground, content to die protecting Polynices’ burning corpse.

464-518 The women of Argos reach Athens where they are greeted with tenderness and sympathy.

519-605 Theseus returns to Athens where Evadne (wife of Capaneus) tells him of Creon’s decree that no Argive soldier may be given a proper burial.. She entreats Theseus to allow the pyres to be lit. This news disturbs Theseus, who cries out for the women of Argos and allows them to use the Athenian pyres for the time being. He prepares his men for battle.

606-676 A list of Theseus’ men is presented, and he gathers troops from the surrounding regions.

677-781 Creon captures Antigone and Argia and sentences them to death. He is about to kill them when Phegeus announces the arrival of Theseus’ army. The Theban army is depleted and completely unprepared, but Creon rouses his men one last time in defense of Thebes. The armies take to the battlefield, and Theseus charges Creon. In the process, several men are killed, and Creon’s army flees. Theseus orders that his men not pursue the retreating army. Creon, despised and alone, throws a spear at Theseus and misses. Theseus calls out to the ghosts of Argive soldiers (announcing that he is sending Creon to them) and throws a spear through Creon’s weakened body. Creon dies with his eyes still open, and Theseus announces that proper burials will be offered to everyone, including Creon.

782-end Peace is arranged between Theban, Argive and Athenian soldiers. Theseus is chosen as the king of Thebes, and Statius closes with his reflections on the war, wondering how long people will remember the tragedy that he has spoken of.