Bereczky Erzsébet (szerk.): Imre Madách: The Tragedy of Man. Essays about the ideas and the directing of the Drama (Budapest, 1985)
Imre Madách: The Tragedy of Man - full text of the drama - Translated by Joseph Grosz
FROM THE MOB Why do we listen to this scoffer’s words? (They push and pull the Second Demagogue.) FIRST DEMAGOGUE But I shall talk despite my aching heart Because, majestic people, I regard You higher than the leader of our army. SECOND DEMAGOGUE This hungry people, this disloyal mob? They dog-like wait until a piece of bread Falls from their master’s table. Oh, you are A coward. I dislike your filthy taste. FROM THE MOB Drag him down; he is a traitor, too! (They mistreat the Second Demagogue. In the meantime, Eve offers two doves and incense at the altar.) EVE Help, Aphrodite! Listen to my prayer! Goddess, accept my humble sacrifice: I ask no laurels for my husband’s head, Only the peace of home to soothe his heart. (In the smoke of the sacrifice, Eros appears smilingly, surrounded by the three Graces who shower roses on him. The group stands in deep devotion.) THE MAIDENS (to Eros) Liston to her! EROS A pure heart’s blessing be Upon this woman! 170
