Page:Hesiod, and Theognis.djvu/119

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THE SHIELD OF HERCULES.
105

A comparison of this passage with, its parallel in Homer's shield of Achilles (II. xviii.), encourages the theory that both poets had a common ideal, though the representation is more full and prolix in Hesiod. We quote the Homeric description from an unpublished translation:[1]—

"Two cities of mankind he wrought. In oneMarriage was made and revelry went on.Here brides environed with bright torches' blazeForth from their bowers they lead, and loudly raiseThe nuptial chant; and dancers blithely spring,Cheered by the sweet-breathed pipe and harper's string,And women at their doors stand wondering."

A distinct subject, having nothing to do with the nuptial procession, though perhaps an accessory illustration of a city at peace, is formed in the operations of husbandry; ploughers tucked up and close girt are making the furrow, as on the Homeric shield, yield before the coulter. The equipment of these ploughmen carries us back again to the 'Works,' where the husbandman is advised "to sow stripped, plough stripped, and reap stripped," if he would enjoy the gift of Ceres; and where "stripping" means probably getting rid of the cloak, and wearing only the close tunic:—

"Next aroseA field thick set with depth of corn: where someWith sharpened sickle reaped the club-like stalks,Some bound them into bands, and strewed the floorFor thrashing."—E.
  1. ↑ By Mr Richard Garnett.
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