The Truth of Prometheus
-Written by Lorient Montaner
(Contents)
Dramatis Personae ix
ACT I
ACT II
ACT III
ACT IV
ACT V
Dramatis Personae
PROMETHEUS–A poet
DEMOTIMOS–A poet
PERSEPHONE–A philosopher and teacher
NICHOMACHOS–A student of Persephone
HEDISTE–A student of Persephone
ARISTION–An artisan
MIKRION–A politician
POLYKRATES–A money-changer
SOPHOKLES–A student of Persephone
PHILLIPPOS–An astronomer
XANTHOS–A soldier
CEBES–A friend and student of Socrates
SIMMIAS–A friend and student of Socrates
Setting: Athens, Greece. The year is 389 BCE.
ACT I
SCENE I.
The centre of the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus, a poet from Thebes, arrives in Athens and reunites with his good friend Demotimos, ten years after the death of Socrates.
PROMETHEUS
Demotimos, thou hast not changed in thind appearance in ten years, whilst I have aged ten years more than my true years.
DEMOTIMOS
Indeed! Prometheus, what ill hath befallen thee, that thine eyes are full of gloom and thy countenance so haggard?
PROMETHEUS
I am troubled by the inescapable shadow of my failure—to find the one thing that has eluded me for ten long years.
DEMOTIMOS
What is that one thing that haunteth thy soul with such fervent passion?
PROMETHEUS
The quest for knowledge—to fully grasp the meaning of mine existence, the universal truth, and what fate awaiteth me.
DEMOTIMOS
Why? Thou must learn to live, like me—a true voluptuary and lover of life.
PROMETHEUS
The thought of sybaritic enjoyment bringeth me no satisfaction, not in its fullest form. I do not revel in the pleasures of indulgence and idleness as thou dost.
DEMOTIMOS
What art thou implying? Why dost thou speak in such veiled and condescending words? We all possess appetites—why should mine differ from thine?
PROMETHEUS
Forgive me, my friend, if I sounded patronising. I only meant that my purpose in life must be more than merely satisfying fleeting desires.
DEMOTIMOS
Dost thou suggest that I am wrong in seeking enjoyment and delight?
PROMETHEUS
Those words were thine, not mine.
DEMOTIMOS
Then speak no more in riddles. Tell me plainly what thou meanest, that I might understand thee.
PROMETHEUS
That is the trouble, dear friend—I know not precisely what I want. But I know it is not mere pleasure I seek.
DEMOTIMOS
But surely thou knowest that pleasure and delight are what all men desire. By Zeus, they are gifts from the gods! The talent of the poets, the passion of politicians, the vision of seers, the brilliance of craftsmen, the wonder of artists—these all belong to the history of ideas, institutions, and deeds.
PROMETHEUS
Perhaps. Yet it is not such a gift that I seek. I desire my ultimate destiny. As for the gods—why must I rely upon them for what I need? Have I not already honoured them enough, as any common man?
DEMOTIMOS
Were I not thy friend, I might think thee irreverent to the gods of Athens. Thou speakest as Socrates did—with dangerous rhetoric. Thou wouldst do better to consult the oracle at Delphi than chase after such foolishness elsewhere. Speak to the Pythian priestesses, and ask them of truth and destiny!
PROMETHEUS
It is not my intent to show irreverence. But is it wrong to earnestly seek knowledge, and thus, my purpose?
DEMOTIMOS
What truth dost thou seek? And which destiny? The one appointed by the gods, or one of thine own choosing?
PROMETHEUS
The universal truth, which applies to all men. As for my destiny—I must find it myself, through introspection and inquiry.
DEMOTIMOS
I warn thee, Prometheus. Socrates was condemned for this same pursuit. Thou knowest his fate. I cannot fathom the curiosities of men with such minds. Still, if thou art resolute, go to the southern quarter of the marketplace tomorrow.
PROMETHEUS
Why? What shall I find there?
DEMOTIMOS
There I shall introduce thee to the philosopher Persephone, a learnt man well-versed in the Attic traditions of philosophy. He once knew Socrates, and admired his teachings. Perhaps thou shalt meet Echecrates and Apollodorus as well, devoted pupils of the master. Now, I must leave thee, for I have unfinished business awaiting me.
SCENE II.
The phrontistery of the paideia of philosophy in Athens.
Demotimos escorts Prometheus to meet the philosopher. After greetings and Demotimos’ departure, Persephone, accompanied by his student Sophokles, addresses Prometheus.
PERSEPHONE
Thy friend has told me thou art on a special quest—for knowledge and to uncover thy destiny.
PROMETHEUS
And I have been told thou art a respected philosopher amongst thy students, sir.
PERSEPHONE
Then it is true? Thou seekest knowledge, and thy destiny?
PROMETHEUS
Indeed!
SOPHOKLES
Thou hast come to the right place. But I must ask—what kind of knowledge dost thou seek? And how can one foresee such an impossible thing as destiny?
PROMETHEUS
I seek that which has evaded me for decades: the knowledge of a universal truth that aligneth with my fate.
PERSEPHONE
The universal truth? Dost thou know what that is?
PROMETHEUS
Is it not knowledge itself, I wonder?
SOPHOKLES
I have not heard of this ‘universal truth’ before. I should be intrigued to know how it relates to the nature of human knowledge and wisdom.
PERSEPHONE
The universal truth, my young questioners, is a form of knowledge understood by only a rare few—those who have grasped its true essence.
SOPHOKLES
Why is it so rare? Why so secretive?
PERSEPHONE
A truth is called ‘universal’ if it is logically valid and unchanging across all times and places. Such a truth transcends the physical universe and is regarded as eternal or absolute.
PROMETHEUS
Then, teacher, what is this truth? And how might I obtain it, that I may understand my fate?
PERSEPHONE
Those are wise questions—yet I can answer only by supposition and inference.
PROMETHEUS
Is this not the same truth spoken of by Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle in their dialogues?
PERSEPHONE
It depends on what thou seekest in that truth, and how it relateth to the destiny thou wouldst fulfil.
PROMETHEUS
I seek the ultimate knowledge—the kind that will reveal to me my purpose.
PERSEPHONE
Then I ask thee—what shall this knowledge reveal? Will it be more or less than what thou hopest to find?
PROMETHEUS
I confess—I do not yet know.
PERSEPHONE
Then to gain knowledge, thou must first understand the deeper meaning of wisdom.
SOPHOKLES
Is not wisdom born of experience, master?
PERSEPHONE
Wisdom may be gained through experience or memory—what we call rote or ordalium, young man.
PROMETHEUS
And where might I obtain this wisdom of which thou speakest?
PERSEPHONE
Go forth—speak with the money-changer, the poet, the politician, the artisan, the astronomer, the soldier. Ask each about knowledge. Then return to me, the philosopher, and thou mayest discover thy destiny. For only through encountering many perspectives may one see the shape of truth.
SCENE III.
At the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus speaks to a money changer, by the name of Polykrates from the marketplace, in search of the universal truth to his destiny.
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou a money changer, if I may enquire?
POLYKRATES.
Aye! I am a money changer. How much money dost thou need to exchange?
PROMETHEUS.
I do not need to exchange any money.
POLYKRATES.
Thou dost not wish to exchange money? No drachmas or minae?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay! I do not wish to exchange any money, as I have mentioned to thee ere.
POLYKRATES.
Then what dost thou want from me that I am a busy man?
PROMETHEUS.
I merely came to ascertain what is called knowledge from thee. That is all!
POLYKRATES.
Come now, I have not time to waste on this senseless conversation that shall lead to nowhere!
PROMETHEUS.
Then am I to think that a money changer such as thyself hath no real knowledge whatsoever?
POLYKRATES.
Knowledge, I have a lot of knowledge, but little time and patience to spare.
PROMETHEUS.
What is thy knowledge?
POLYKRATES.
I have the great knowledge to count money and remember numerals effectively.
PROMETHEUS.
Nay! That is not knowledge, but a talent.
POLYKRATES.
I know how the economy and the market function well in Athens.
PROMETHEUS.
Then tell me, what is the universal truth to thee?
POLYKRATES.
The universal truth? I have not heard it mentioned. But if thou must know, to me, ’tis the truth found only in these drachmas and minae I hold in mine hands that reveal the ways of quotidian commerce. That is mine universal truth.
PROMETHEUS.
But is that all that the universal truth signifieth to thee?
POLYKRATES.
Is it not sufficient enough for thee? For me, ’tis the only truth that is important in this society and world.
PROMETHEUS.
That is thy truth only? Is it not?
POLYKRATES.
The truth is, without money a poor man shall remain poor, whilst a rich man shall become rich every time.
PROMETHEUS.
If I may interject, my good money changer, if I understand the premise of that truth, then I shall be condemned to abstract poverty whilst thou shalt be an opulent man.
POLYKRATES.
I believe that shall be the case!
PROMETHEUS.
However, thou hast failed to reveal the fact that I may become poor compared to thee, yet, when we both die, our flesh shall rot and our bones decay into ashes eventually. Now tell me, my good money changer. What good is it to have money and opulence, if that money thou hast in thine hands shall not accompany thee beyond thy death? Dost thou not see the contradiction in thy words?
POLYKRATES.
True, but I shall prefer to die rich than poor, strange fellow. Anyways, ’tis thou that asked me about this universal truth in the first place?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed! I go now, knowing the universal truth to a money changer. Thereafter, I must seek the universal truth from a poet.
SCENE IV.
At the Lyceum in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus has come to converse with his dear friend Demotimos, about the universal truth.
DEMOTIMOS.
Prometheus, I was not expecting to see thee so soon. Art thou still in search of that universal truth to thy destiny? Did not the sage Persephone apprise thee of its introduction and illusive nature?
PROMETHEUS.
He told me that I must ask men of distinctive occupations what they believe to be the universal truth. I have enquired of the money changer, but his universal truth is about the greed of money.
DEMOTIMOS.
What exactly dost thou want to know from me that shall serve thy purpose?
PROMETHEUS.
What kind of knowledge dost thou have that is relevant?
DEMOTIMOS.
I am a marvellous poet, with a unique knowledge that few persons possess in our society.
PROMETHEUS.
What is that particular knowledge, my friend?
DEMOTIMOS.
I was born with the extraordinary gift of language and the masterful eloquence of poetry that few men can declare.
PROMETHEUS.
However, that is not knowledge. That is a talent!
DEMOTIMOS.
Talent ’tis, but we as poets have the knowledge of the quill that hath captivated men for centuries.
PROMETHEUS.
Then, what is the universal truth to thee?
DEMOTIMOS.
The universal truth, if thou must know, is found in the eloquent stanzas of the poetry I write and recite. That is mine universal truth, my friend.
PROMETHEUS.
Surely, thou must know that poetry is an expression of mere words. What truth could be discovered in the stanzas of a poem that define knowledge, my good friend?
DEMOTIMOS.
Thou art a poet and know that poetry is the essence of the beauty of our dialogues. I would prefer to recite a thousand poems than to die an ignoramus in this world.
PROMETHEUS.
But the words of poetry shall not serve thee when thou art dead, besides, what good is it to be a poet, if poetry is but words that carry no substance of the truth? I mean, why do we recite poetry that is no more than the reflection of our own selfish desires and sorrows only?
DEMOTIMOS.
No substance? That is not accurate. I would not call my desires and sorrows selfish, and my words bear memorable substance to mine audience.
PROMETHEUS.
Do they carry more weight than the words of the philosophers or the politicians? I have not met a ruler who is a poet. Therefore, thy knowledge is not the universal truth I seek, my friend!
DEMOTIMOS.
Then, wherefore did thou waste my time with thine enquiry knowing the nature of my character?
PROMETHEUS.
Forgive me, my friend, but I was told by the philosopher Persephone to ask men of distinction what is the universal truth, so that I may find my fate.
DEMOTIMOS.
I have revealed to thee what mine universal truth is. Now, I must continue with the recital of my poetry. Therefore, thou shalt have to be content with what I have disclosed to thee already.
PROMETHEUS.
Ye poets are always lost in thy vision of a utopian world in the universe. I shall go forthwith and speak to the artisan about the matter. Surely, he must know something of knowledge that would be germane to my search.
SCENE V.
At the corner of one of the main streets of Athens.
Prometheus addresses a local artisan, who is constructing a wooden chest. The name of the artisan is Aristion.
PROMETHEUS.
Forgive me, kind sir. Thou art an artisan, if I am not mistaken in my description?
ARISTION.
I am an artisan! What can I make for thee? Dost thou desire a wooden chest to be made?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay! I do not need a wooden chest to be made.
ARISTION.
Then, what dost thou seek at this moment that I might be of service to thee?
PROMETHEUS.
What I merely seek is the universal truth. But I came to learn of thy knowledge in particular.
ARISTION.
What universal truth? I have never before heard any utterance or mention of such a strange thing.
PROMETHEUS.
I do not quite know its actual meaning. But I was told by a wise man that I might find it by enquiring into the knowledge of others.
ARISTION.
Knowledge? Thou dost want to know what an artisan like myself would know?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed! I am here because thou must surely have some worthy knowledge to reveal to me that I might learn and ponder its pertinence.
ARISTION.
I do not know if what I have as knowledge is truly worthy. But, if thou must know, I know how to build things from nothing and create wondrous art that I profit from afterwards. I am a sculptor, carpenter, coin maker, and more. All that is built by hand I master with mine own skill.
PROMETHEUS.
I fear that is not knowledge, but talent. Dost thou not possess any knowledge beyond these skills?
ARISTION.
Of course! I have the knowledge that a man needeth to build anything from nothing. Is that not sufficient knowledge?
PROMETHEUS.
Then, what is the universal truth to thee?
ARISTION.
The only truth that is important to me is the use of mine hands to build, and the objects I create which men reward me for, in the form of money.
PROMETHEUS.
Dost thou not believe that the world is more than building and creating things and being handsomely rewarded?
ARISTION.
Perhaps! However, for me ’tis what rewards the constant needs of my family.
PROMETHEUS.
Life must be more than building and creating things from which only men profit by their toil.
ARISTION.
’Tis enough for me! I can think of no better thing than to labour for profit.
PROMETHEUS.
But what of the quest for knowledge? Dost thou not wish to know more of life and the world beyond thy trade or toil?
ARISTION.
Since I am not a politician, poet, or philosopher, wherefore should I indulge myself in the knowledge of others that doth not serve my purpose or needs?
PROMETHEUS.
Because there is still so much of this world and the universe unknown to discover and reveal, and we have barely begun to understand its salient function.
ACT II
SCENE I
At the oracle in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus visits the oracle and speaks to an astronomer, by the name of Phillippos.
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou an astronomer?
PHILLIPPOS.
Indeed! And who art thou, that I know not thy countenance?
PROMETHEUS.
I am Prometheus of Thebes.
PHILLIPPOS.
Is something weighing upon thy thoughts?
PROMETHEUS.
I seem to be on a quest for the universal truth, to discover mine own fate. That is chiefly why I seek the knowledge of others.
PHILLIPPOS.
What dost thou mean by universal truth?
PROMETHEUS.
The truth that is universal and understood by all — or so I believe, in definition.
PHILLIPPOS.
If thou askest what knowledge I possess, then I shall say this: I know how to observe the countless stars in the heavens, and to discern the difference between the distance of the moon and the sun. I can also predict the movements and alignments of the planets within the cosmos.
PROMETHEUS.
That may seem like knowledge, yet it is more a matter of refined skill.
PHILLIPPOS.
True, yet I know these things because I can observe or deduce them plainly.
PROMETHEUS.
If thou art thus knowledgeable, then what is universal truth to thee?
PHILLIPPOS.
To me, the only truth that beareth weight is the vast universe itself — that which is existential.
PROMETHEUS.
If the universe is indeed vast, then what canst thou tell me of mine own existence?
PHILLIPPOS.
I can tell thee, young man, that thy being is bound to the relativity of the cosmos and its eternal evolution.
PROMETHEUS.
Let us say for the sake of discourse that this be true — what knowledge, then, can I gain from such truth?
PHILLIPPOS.
Perhaps the better question is: what is the difference between good and poor knowledge?
PROMETHEUS.
Or rather, between substantial and superficial knowledge?
PHILLIPPOS.
Indeed!
PROMETHEUS.
Then what can be truly learnt from thy knowledge?
PHILLIPPOS.
Only thou shalt discover that answer in time, Theban. But know this: any established truth must always be universal, and tied to the relevance of the cosmos — which is boundless and eternal in its nature and composition.
SCENE II
At the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus approaches a soldier, named Xanthos, and converses with him.
PROMETHEUS.
Pardon me! Art thou a soldier? I judge by thy garb and armaments.
XANTHOS.
Aye! And who art thou that askest?
PROMETHEUS.
I am a philosopher, and I wish to know what knowledge thou holdest.
XANTHOS.
A philosopher! And what interest hast thou in the knowledge of a soldier?
PROMETHEUS.
I mean not to intrude with my questions. If thou must know, I am on a quest for the universal truth — to better understand mine own destiny.
XANTHOS.
Universal truth, thou sayest? I know not what that may be, nor what it containeth.
PROMETHEUS.
Surely, thou possessest some knowledge of great worth.
XANTHOS.
I have but the necessary knowledge of a common soldier.
PROMETHEUS.
What knowledge is that, good sir?
XANTHOS.
I know the art of warfare — how to wield a sword and throw a spear to strike down mine enemies upon the battlefield.
PROMETHEUS.
That is courage and skill. Yet still, it is not knowledge in the truest sense.
XANTHOS.
Call it what thou wilt — it is what a soldier must know to survive and defend himself.
PROMETHEUS.
Granted — but what other knowledge dost thou possess that may be considered universal?
XANTHOS.
To me, what is universal are the battles I fight and the victories I claim. That is all that truly mattereth.
PROMETHEUS.
There must be more to knowledge than conquest. Some truth must lie beyond the sword and shield.
XANTHOS.
If there is, thou shalt not find it in me.
PROMETHEUS.
Perhaps a politician might speak of the universal truth with more clarity.
XANTHOS.
Thou shalt not like what the politician sayeth.
PROMETHEUS.
Wherefore?
XANTHOS.
Because his truth is the most corrupted of all truths known to man. Mark my words — here in Athens, power is a mighty thing to wield, and if thou hast it, thou canst rule with impunity.
PROMETHEUS.
And what of democracy?
XANTHOS.
Democracy is the ideal dream of poets and philosophers. Yet few politicians honour its true value — for once power taketh hold, it corrupteth blindly.
SCENE III
At the Symposium in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus meets a politician outside the Symposium. He confronts him regarding his knowledge, unaware of the perilous nature of his discourse. The politician’s name is Mikrion. Unbeknownst to Prometheus, Mikrion is a powerful statesman.
PROMETHEUS.
I do not mean to interpose with mine own presence, sir, but I must needs settle a certain curiosity. Art thou a politician?
MIKRION.
A politician or a statesman, if thou must. Yet I prefer the title of Senator. Who art thou?
PROMETHEUS.
I am a poet and philosopher, and my name is Prometheus.
MIKRION.
Where art thou from? Judging by thy parlance, thou art not Athenian.
PROMETHEUS.
If thou must know, I hail from Thebes.
MIKRION.
A Theban— the worst kind of enemy. Tell me then, why should I trust aught that proceedeth from thy lips?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed, I am Theban. Yet I have naught to conceal from thee!
MIKRION.
Then what hath brought thee to Athens, Theban?
PROMETHEUS.
I am embarked upon a quest — though a quest unlike any other.
MIKRION.
What manner of quest, Theban?
PROMETHEUS.
I seek the eternal universal truth.
MIKRION.
And what is this universal truth that thou pursuest?
PROMETHEUS.
That is precisely why I seek thy counsel, politician. Surely a man of thy station possesseth greater knowledge than a money changer, an artisan, an astronomer, a soldier — or even a poet.
MIKRION.
'Tis true, for the knowledge I wield exceedeth that of those lesser men.
PROMETHEUS.
Then speak, good politician — what knowledge dost thou claim as thine own?
MIKRION.
Thou meanest to ask what it is that I know?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed!
MIKRION.
Then I shall answer thus: I know how to govern with authority and with words that only men of power may utter and command with mastery.
PROMETHEUS.
That is not true knowledge — but an art of imposition.
MIKRION.
Call it talent or call it knowledge, it mattereth not. The only thing of importance is the power I hold within the Senate.
PROMETHEUS.
Then tell me, good Senator — what is the universal truth to thee?
MIKRION.
The universal truth is naught but the power I command, both in Senate and city. That is my universal truth, inquisitive Theban. Art thou perchance a follower of Socrates?
PROMETHEUS.
I have heard his name — yet, alas, I have never met the man.
MIKRION.
Then hear this warning, and heed it well: follow not in the footsteps of Socrates. The gods shall not be merciful. Beware their judgement and decree.
PROMETHEUS.
I mean not to provoke the gods, yet until I uncover the universal truth, I must defer to the notion that the gods themselves are the arbiters of enquiry.
MIKRION.
Remember this: they are the divine bearers of all knowledge. Defame them not with thine insolence!
PROMETHEUS.
I have no intention to defame any — least of all the gods!
SCENE IV
At the phrontistery in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus returns to the phrontistery, where the philosopher Persephone is imparting his teachings. Prometheus reveals what he has discovered through his inquiries.
PERSEPHONE.
Prometheus, thou hast returned.
PROMETHEUS.
Aye, master — I have returned in haste.
PERSEPHONE.
What hast thou uncovered in thy pursuit?
PROMETHEUS.
I believe I have discovered many things — yet I remain baffled by the candour of these men and their so-called knowledge.
PERSEPHONE.
What dost thou imply?
PROMETHEUS.
Perhaps ’tis better I speak plainly, that thou mayest understand my meaning.
PERSEPHONE.
Pray, proceed. I am most eager to hear what thou hast uncovered.
PROMETHEUS.
I have learnt this: to the money changer, the universal truth is the custom of daily commerce. To the poet, it is found in the stanzas of verse. To the artisan, it is the profit in the object fashioned. To the astronomer, it is the vast and existential cosmos. To the soldier, it is battle fought and victory claimed. And to the politician, the universal truth is power and control.
PERSEPHONE.
Then, what hast thou gleaned from these truths?
PROMETHEUS.
Little, I fear. For what I have witnessed are their talents, not their knowledge. Surely, I must have failed to perceive something in their revelations.
PERSEPHONE.
What revelations dost thou speak of, precisely?
PROMETHEUS.
Frankly... I know not.
PERSEPHONE.
If thou hast not discovered the universal truth amongst these men, then I would bid thee become my pupil — a student of philosophy.
PROMETHEUS.
If that is the path by which I might reach the knowledge of the universal truth, then I shall gladly become thy student.
PERSEPHONE.
I must forewarn thee — thou shalt have to bear a heavy burden in thy search. Know this: without knowledge, thou canst not grasp even the shadow of truth.
PROMETHEUS.
What dost thou mean by heavy burden?
PERSEPHONE.
I mean to say that the path to truth shall not be easily trodden.
PROMETHEUS.
If that be the case, then I am both willing and ready to embrace the challenge.
PERSEPHONE.
Now that thou hast chosen the way of wisdom, thou must prepare thyself for a long and arduous journey.
PROMETHEUS.
What must I do to prepare?
PERSEPHONE.
Thou must seek the path of enlightenment.
PROMETHEUS.
And how shall I find that path? Where doth enlightenment begin?
PERSEPHONE.
Thou shalt begin it now — from this very moment in time.
SCENE V.
At the centre of the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus is with his friend Demotimos, discussing his quest for knowledge.
DEMOTIMOS.
Prometheus, what hast thou discovered in thy quest for knowledge?
PROMETHEUS.
What I know is that I have discovered practically nothing!
DEMOTIMOS.
Why dost thou say that, my good friend?
PROMETHEUS.
I have learnt nought, and moreover, the universal truth I seek hath still eluded my comprehension.
DEMOTIMOS.
As a fellow poet, may I suggest that thou employ the acumen of the intellect?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed! Perhaps there is more to be developed within me—such as within my mind.
DEMOTIMOS.
The intellectual mind is always relevant to knowledge, but it would depend on what that knowledge is. Is that not so?
PROMETHEUS.
True! I wonder if I shall ever find this universal truth here in Athens—or anywhere else, for that matter.
DEMOTIMOS.
I wonder myself, is it not better to remain a poet than attempt to find something that only a true philosopher would discover in time? I would find my time wasted on such a tedious task.
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou suggesting that I remain a poet and abandon my philosophical pursuit—for the universal truth, and for my destiny?
DEMOTIMOS.
I know it would be better to be a sage than a mere poet, but thou art searching for a certain knowledge that only a true philosopher can answer—with scholarly ability.
PROMETHEUS.
But how would I know that such knowledge is truthful?
DEMOTIMOS.
I suppose only thou canst answer that question, in the quiet of thine own reflection.
PROMETHEUS.
If I became a philosopher, what might I expect?
DEMOTIMOS.
Surely, thou art aware of the unique world of the philosophers?
PROMETHEUS.
I am—to a certain degree.
DEMOTIMOS.
I believe thou wouldst enjoy an intellectual discourse with some of my philosophical friends, who are students of the great scholar Persephone.
PROMETHEUS.
The thought of such intellectual conversation is most fascinating.
DEMOTIMOS.
Then why dost thou not join me this evening at mine abode?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall be most willing to join thee and the others tonight.
ACT III
SCENE I.
At the home of Demotimos in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus arrives at the residence of his good friend Demotimos, where he is greeted by other guests—students of philosophy—such as Nichomachos, Sophoklos, and Hediste.
DEMOTIMOS.
Welcome to my home, Prometheus. I am glad that thou didst accept my kind invitation.
PROMETHEUS.
I could not reject thy gracious hospitality. Besides, I am eager indeed to converse with thy esteemed guests.
DEMOTIMOS.
Naturally. Then allow me to introduce thee to them. These are my friends Nichomachos, Sophoklos, and the lovely Hediste.
NICHOMACHOS.
Thou art from Thebes—and a poet, I am told?
PROMETHEUS.
Aye.
SOPHOKLOS.
I have not met a Theban poet before. Art thou of any noble lineage?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay. I shall tell thee honestly—my father was an established poet, and my mother the daughter of a reputable merchant.
HEDISTE.
I have heard that thou art on a quest for the knowledge known as universal truth. Is that a fair assumption?
PROMETHEUS.
If I must be candid, my fair lady, then yes—that is so.
HEDISTE.
Why so? And what is this universal truth that thou seekest?
DEMOTIMOS.
Indeed, I too have asked my good friend the same question.
PROMETHEUS.
I wish I had the answer, but as yet—I do not.
HEDISTE.
If thou seekest this universal truth, thou must first determine its essence.
PROMETHEUS.
That is indeed a rational conclusion!
NICHOMACHOS.
I was once told by a philosopher that in order to understand anything, one must first discover one’s own identity.
SOPHOKLOS.
Aye, I too have heard such a saying.
DEMOTIMOS.
I can think of nought better for discovering oneself than discovering the leisure of pleasure.
PROMETHEUS.
But what knowledge can I acquire through leisure?
DEMOTIMOS.
Pleasure is a natural gift bestowed by the gods—Zeus, Hera, Aphrodite, Cronus, Uranus, Hephaestus. We Athenians, unlike you Thebans, recite poetry and are skilled orators. I much prefer the marvels of Anacreon to the tedium of Homer. Moreover, we feast on fruits, raisins, pomegranates, roasted hare—and we drink wine in the hours of leisure. What more could an Athenian desire?
NICHOMACHOS.
Surely thou knowest that not all Athenians are so fortunate as to indulge in leisure?
DEMOTIMOS.
If thou referrest to the poor slave, then save thy breath for piety.
NICHOMACHOS.
I meant the slave, yes—but the unprivileged citizens of Athens also.
PROMETHEUS.
But what good is pleasure if there be no knowledge to be gained from it?
HEDISTE.
First, thou must realise: one is acquired, the other—a benefit.
DEMOTIMOS.
I would not exaggerate its importance. Even Socrates and Plato partook of pleasure and company.
SCENE II.
At the phrontistery (school of thought) in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus revisits the philosopher Persephone to discuss his continued failure to uncover the universal truth.
PERSEPHONE.
Prometheus! Why hast thou returned so swiftly? Hast thou discovered the universal truth?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay. I have not yet found it.
PERSEPHONE.
There is much to be learnt in philosophy, Prometheus.
PROMETHEUS.
That is why I am here in Athens—to acquire knowledge from the Athenians. But I have found few who possess knowledge from which I might benefit in practice.
PERSEPHONE.
Many men of philosophy have undertaken the quest for knowledge—such as Prodicus of Ceos, Gorgias of Leontini, Evenus of Paros, Hippias of Elis, and Socrates of Athens.
PROMETHEUS.
But did any of them discover the universal truth?
PERSEPHONE.
That only they knew. But know this: philosophy itself is knowledge.
PROMETHEUS.
Still, I am troubled. I have not yet found the universal truth.
PERSEPHONE.
As I told thee before—thy search hath only just begun.
PROMETHEUS.
I have wandered all over this city, yet I know not where to seek the knowledge necessary to find either the universal truth or the course of my destiny.
PERSEPHONE.
Perhaps thou hast not been searching in the right place.
PROMETHEUS.
Why dost thou say that?
PERSEPHONE.
Philosophy teacheth us that human beings must first discover the oneness within themselves—their ipseity.
PROMETHEUS.
How do I find this oneness—this ipseity?
PERSEPHONE.
In philosophy, we learn the true meaning of oneness or ipseity through the practice of virtue.
PROMETHEUS.
And what is virtue?
PERSEPHONE.
It is a fascinating thing, yet few men have understood its worth.
PROMETHEUS.
Where shall I find its significance?
PERSEPHONE.
To find virtue, thou must search elsewhere. But take great care, Prometheus. Many men proclaim to know virtue—but practise it not.
PROMETHEUS.
Who are these men of whom thou speakest? Tell me their names.
PERSEPHONE.
I may only warn thee of their presence—and advise thee to beware the pretender who speaketh wisdom but heedeth it not.
SCENE III
At the centre of the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus is walking with Demotimos, when he is confronted by the politician Mikrion.
MIKRION.
I see thou hast returned to the Agora, Theban. Hast thou come to corrupt the citizens with thy foolishness?
PROMETHEUS.
By Zeus! What corruption dost thou accuse me of committing?
MIKRION.
The very crime for which Socrates was accused and executed.
PROMETHEUS.
I fail to perceive the point of thine argument.
MIKRION.
Perhaps I should accentuate my point, that it may convince thee more thoroughly.
DEMOTIMOS.
Forgive him, Senator! He is not an Athenian; therefore, he doth not know the laws of the city, nor how they function.
MIKRION.
Naturally. Yet this doth not excuse his poor behaviour in the public domain.
PROMETHEUS.
I beg to differ! What crime have I committed that merits such false accusation?
MIKRION.
I warn thee of the consequences of thine actions. I see that thou hast not heeded my previous warning.
PROMETHEUS.
If I have committed no corruption, then wherefore must I defend myself? Once more, I ask—whom have I corrupted?
MIKRION.
The citizens of Athens, who require not senseless philosophers to influence their beliefs and destroy their traditions.
DEMOTIMOS.
Surely, thou must take into strong consideration the fact that my noble friend is not accustomed to our Athenian ways and laws.
MIKRION.
If that be the case, am I to assume that thy friend shall henceforth cease his activity and admit his naivety?
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou willing, then, to admit thine own ignorance?
MIKRION.
Brash and daring thou art, to impose thy foolish hubris. Hast thou forgotten I am a powerful politician within Athenian society?
DEMOTIMOS.
Senator, allow me to escort my friend to my home. I assure thee his stay in the city shall be brief, and he shall no longer infringe upon the law.
MIKRION.
If he agreeth to cease his corrupted ways and activity.
PROMETHEUS.
If I concede to that notion, I must then acknowledge my supposed naivety.
MIKRION.
Is it not better, Theban, to do so than to face the full severity of Athenian justice? The choice is thine! Which shall it be?
PROMETHEUS.
What I choose is solely mine to determine—and when I choose, I shall face the consequences.
MIKRION.
Do not be foolish like Socrates! Thou art young! Do not allow thy vulgar youth to display thy ignorance and poor judgement.
SCENE IV
At the home of Demotimos in Athens, Greece.
Demotimos urges his Theban friend to leave Athens or disengage from his pursuit of universal truth and destiny.
DEMOTIMOS.
Truly, I implore thee, Prometheus—return to Thebes ere thou art apprehended.
PROMETHEUS.
I do not fear apprehension. I have not yet completed my quest.
DEMOTIMOS.
Thou art aware of the consequences of that decision?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed, I am.
DEMOTIMOS.
Then what is thy position?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall leave Athens forthwith, but not of mine own desire. Rather, I wish not to bring upon thee or others any difficulty or unnecessary predicament due to my association with thee.
DEMOTIMOS.
'Tis regretful that thou must depart in such a manner—but it is for the best, at least until the tyranny against philosophers hath passed.
PROMETHEUS.
True. Yet it is not of my own conviction, for I have committed no grievous crime.
DEMOTIMOS.
Is it not preferable to be a poet in our Greek society than to be a wise philosopher or sage?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay! 'Tis cruel to imagine forsaking one's principles.
DEMOTIMOS.
I would have warned thee myself of the tyranny of our politicians, yet I did not anticipate thy persistence.
PROMETHEUS.
Nor did I consider the consequence of a mere enquiry on my part.
DEMOTIMOS.
I fear thy quest for universal truth is now viewed as controversial in Athenian society. Alas, we have only Socrates and Plato to blame for this propagation of philosophy.
PROMETHEUS.
I detest such a prosaic notion of mankind—to impose their doctrines upon the citizens, who possess no voice in the matter.
DEMOTIMOS.
I admire thy perspective, Prometheus, yet what use is analysis of that which is embedded within our society?
PROMETHEUS.
Is not change a virtue when it betters society—including thine?
DEMOTIMOS.
Our society is, indeed, ideological. It is what we have chosen over many decades.
PROMETHEUS.
But what advanced knowledge hath this system of governance brought forth?
DEMOTIMOS.
I suppose thou speakest with some truth—yet 'tis the only system I have ever known.
PROMETHEUS.
Then I pity thee, O proud Athenians. I cannot fathom a society built upon such erroneous principles.
SCENE V
At the home of Persephone the philosopher in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus visits the sage to announce his immediate departure. But he learns that Persephone has been arrested by the politician Mikrion, on the charge of corrupting the youth. He then confronts Mikrion, who is alone in the Agora.
PROMETHEUS.
Mikrion, wherefore hast thou arrested the philosopher Persephone?
MIKRION.
Theban, I thought thou hast departed the city of Athens.
PROMETHEUS.
I had indeed planned my departure—but that was ere I was informed of the swift apprehension of the philosopher.
MIKRION.
What troubling concern is this to thee, Theban, since it doth not concern thee in the first place?
PROMETHEUS.
To witness the arrest of an innocent man is a grave travesty of justice.
MIKRION.
Art thou cognisant of thy poignant words?
PROMETHEUS.
I am—and I shall not retract them.
MIKRION.
A feisty man art thou, Theban—or am I mistaken in mine assumption?
PROMETHEUS.
I am indeed feisty—but is that a crime under Athenian law?
MIKRION.
Nay, ’tis not a crime. However, corrupting the youth is!
PROMETHEUS.
And what dost thou mean by corrupting the youth?
MIKRION.
Simple: anyone who influences the youth with non-Athenian ways of thinking and behaviour is guilty of this intolerable offence.
PROMETHEUS.
Who hath made these false accusations?
MIKRION.
There is no need for a claim to be made to justify the charge.
PROMETHEUS.
Then according to thee, the old philosopher is a threat to Athenian society and hath violated the law—yet no man hath accused him of any crime whatsoever?
MIKRION.
And what of that?
PROMETHEUS.
Is he not an Athenian—and a member of Athenian society?
MIKRION.
Aye, he is.
PROMETHEUS.
Then speak I not unjustly when I say that, under Athenian law, he—being Athenian—hath the right to defend himself?
MIKRION.
True! But thou art no politician. May I strongly advise thee not to doubt mine authority?
PROMETHEUS.
I do not doubt thy authority. I am merely enquiring, Senator.
MIKRION.
Remember thy place, Theban—for I shall not be so merciful with thee again.
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou going to arrest me? And if so, on what charge?
MIKRION.
Art thou daring me to arrest thee, Theban?
PROMETHEUS.
Nay. All that I request is a gesture of humility and compassion. Is that too much to ask—from a powerful Senator?
MIKRION.
Humility and compassion, Theban, do not get one far in this world. Remember well—there is a clear distinction between a powerful man and a powerless one. Now, tell me: which of us is the powerful, and which the powerless, at this moment.
ACT IV
SCENE I
At a prison outside of Athens, Greece.
Prometheus has been arrested and will be exiled along with Persephone from the city. For now, the two are held together in the same cell.
PROMETHEUS.
Teacher, may I enquire—where shalt thou go next, after thine exile? I am bound for Thebes. Dost thou wish to accompany me on my journey?
PERSEPHONE.
I believe I shall join the community of Pythagorean exiles in Elis.
PROMETHEUS.
’Tis a great comfort to have thee by my side. I regret thy banishment deeply.
PERSEPHONE.
And I regret thine as well. What I have been charged with is solely my doing, yet thou hast committed no offence against the Athenian gods.
PROMETHEUS.
I was exiled from Athens on the charge of corrupting the youth. According to the law, I am deemed guilty of that crime.
PERSEPHONE.
In what manner wert thou corrupting the youth?
PROMETHEUS.
I was told by a very powerful politician—a senator by the name of Mikrion—that I had committed that grave offence.
PERSEPHONE.
I know well of his insufferable arrogance. And how, pray, wert thou corrupting the youth?
PROMETHEUS.
According to the senator, I was doing so—though, as thou well knowest, my only true aim was to pursue universal truth and to discover my destiny.
PERSEPHONE.
A universal truth known truly by few—found only after long years of earnest searching.
PROMETHEUS.
Wherefore have so many failed to discover this universal truth?
PERSEPHONE.
If I told thee that I believe I have found it, what wouldst thou say?
PROMETHEUS.
What art thou implying?
PERSEPHONE.
We possess the power to uncover the universal truth.
PROMETHEUS.
What power is this?
PERSEPHONE.
It is called our will.
PROMETHEUS.
Will? What dost thou mean?
PERSEPHONE.
I cannot tell thee much more. ’Tis for thee to discover.
PROMETHEUS.
Please, teacher—I must know!
PERSEPHONE.
Let us rest now. The journey in the morning shall be wearisome.
PROMETHEUS.
But I must know of this will—this power of which thou speakest!
PERSEPHONE.
Thou must attain the highest state of consciousness in order to comprehend the power of the will.
SCENE II
At a grotto outside of Athens, Greece.
The following evening, Prometheus and Persephone are released. They pass the night at a solitary grotto. Prometheus begins to experience a strange dream in which he travels through the universe. He then finds himself once more in the grotto—but a mysterious voice speaks to him, unbidden, as though from a stranger.
STRANGER.
Prometheus...
PROMETHEUS.
Who art thou, stranger, that speakest to me?
STRANGER.
I am thine inner self.
PROMETHEUS.
Am I dreaming? And what dost thou mean by my inner self?
STRANGER.
I am thy consciousness.
PROMETHEUS.
I do not understand. Who art thou? Why can I not see thee?
STRANGER.
Behold—I am thee. Go to the river nearby and gaze upon thy reflection.
PROMETHEUS.
What shall I find in my reflection?
STRANGER.
Thy truth.
PROMETHEUS.
The universal truth?
STRANGER.
Do as I bid thee.
PROMETHEUS.
I confess—I know not everything, and perhaps that is to be called ignorance. But I must know this truth!
STRANGER.
Indeed! And ignorance is not the absence of knowledge, but the idleness of will to seek it.
PROMETHEUS.
Then if I am ignorant, it is because I choose not to learn beyond my limited knowledge?
STRANGER.
Precisely.
PROMETHEUS.
Where, then, do I find this knowledge?
STRANGER.
Thou seekest the universal truth—dost thou not?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed, I do! Tell me, stranger—dost thou know where I might find this truth and my destiny?
STRANGER.
If I revealed the universal truth, what wouldst thou do with it? Would it change thy life?
PROMETHEUS.
That I do not know. Strangely, I have not fully conceived such a thought in my mind.
STRANGER.
Go to the river. Then, go and pursue the universal truth.
PROMETHEUS.
But whither shall I go? I am exiled—and I do not wish to return to Thebes without having discovered the universal truth.
STRANGER.
Go to Elis. There thou shalt encounter a group known as the Pythagoreans.
PROMETHEUS.
Why? Who are these men, the Pythagoreans?
STRANGER.
Soon thou shalt know what thou must do.
(Prometheus approaches the nearby river and gazes at his own reflection. He is left bewildered by the vision and the voice of the mysterious stranger.)
SCENE III.
At the grove outside of Athens, Greece.
The following morning, Prometheus awakens to tell Persephone about the unusual nature of his dream.
PROMETHEUS.
Teacher, thou wouldst not believe me, if I told thee about a strange dream I had last night.
PERSEPHONE.
What was this extraordinary dream, young man?
PROMETHEUS.
I was sharing a fascinating conversation with a voice who was a stranger.
PERSEPHONE.
And what is so unique about that dream?
PROMETHEUS.
The voice told me that I would find at last the universal truth.
PERSEPHONE.
A voice? What did the stranger look like in appearance?
PROMETHEUS.
That I do not know! I only heard his voice. 'Tis a mystery that hath eluded my mind ever since I awakened.
PERSEPHONE.
Well then, my young man, what exactly did this stranger reveal to thee?
PROMETHEUS.
That I cannot reveal plainly, because he spoke in the way of riddles, and the only thing I remember was his mention of the universal truth.
PERSEPHONE.
I suppose that there must be some untold and unknown purpose for this dream.
PROMETHEUS.
Whatever 'tis, I am at a loss to know what was exactly meant by the words of this godlike voice.
PERSEPHONE.
There is much in this world and the universe that remaineth unsolved to us today.
PROMETHEUS.
But thou art a great philosopher and knew Socrates. What am I to do, teacher?
PERSEPHONE.
Indeed, I knew Socrates, and he was a wise man of philosophy, but even he struggled to discover his own truth.
PROMETHEUS.
There must be a universal truth that correspondeth to the order of the universe.
PERSEPHONE.
There is a universal truth, but few men have found and understood its relevance.
PROMETHEUS.
I have travelled from Thebes to Athens to acquire knowledge. However, I was exiled from the city not of my own accord. I must go to Elis and speak to the Pythagoreans about the matter.
PERSEPHONE.
We shall speak to them and hear their opinions.
PROMETHEUS.
I know it may seem mad, but I must know my fate. I do not know how to explain it in the simplicity of words.
PERSEPHONE.
I warn thee, beware of the enemies that await thee hither or thither! Knowledge and sapience are tools for deceivers to apply.
SCENE IV.
At the entrance to the city of Elis in Greece.
Prometheus and Persephone have reached the city of Elis. There Persephone shall remain. They wish to speak to the Pythagoreans in privacy.
PROMETHEUS.
I shall hope that thou shalt find Elis to be satisfactory, wise teacher.
PERSEPHONE.
Do not worry, young man, I shall be safe here!
PROMETHEUS.
It still doth not comfort me much, but I am content to see thee released from that horrific confinement.
PERSEPHONE.
I cannot imagine any drear and melancholic place more grievous than confinement.
PROMETHEUS.
No man is deserving of such punishment. Not even the haughty Mikrion.
PERSEPHONE.
All politicians are the same; they think not with wisdom but act with ignorance and impiety.
PROMETHEUS.
I must agree with that asseveration; although it seemeth that man was not destined for any great measure of power and grandeur.
PERSEPHONE.
Power was not bequeathed to man, but only to the divine gods.
PROMETHEUS.
Then, when shall man learn not to act like the gods?
PERSEPHONE.
When they realise their infallibility. That remaineth to be seen, young man.
PROMETHEUS.
There must be something more worthy than power for man.
PERSEPHONE.
Indeed! The question is when shall man realise that?
PROMETHEUS.
I am a man, and certainly there must be more men who think like me and share that thought.
PERSEPHONE.
There are, and thou must search for them.
PROMETHEUS.
Search for them! Where do I begin to find them? In what city or town are they that I may speak to them?
PERSEPHONE.
Here, thou canst begin in Elis! I cannot reveal anything else, except thou must go alone on this journey, and when we see each other anew, thou shalt have the answers to all thy questions, including the universal truth.
PROMETHEUS.
Canst thou assure me of that possibility, teacher?
PERSEPHONE.
I can only assure thee that thou shalt have to suffer in order to understand the universal truth.
PROMETHEUS.
In what way or capacity shall I suffer? Shall my suffering be mental or physical?
PERSEPHONE.
Thou shalt feel and know of this suffering when it manifesteth to thee.
SCENE V.
At the oracle in Elis, Greece.
Before he returns to Athens, Prometheus decides to accompany Persephone to the oracle. There he has an encounter with two prominent members of the Pythagoreans, whose names are Simmias and Cebes.
SIMMIAS.
Persephone, we heard that thou hadst been exiled from Athens.
PERSEPHONE.
I see that the tidings of mine exile have raught Elis.
CEBES.
Naturally, since we are apprised of the tidings in Athens through our few acquaintances there.
PROMETHEUS.
Then, thou art aware of the terrible injustices committed by the ruthless politicians of the city?
SIMMIAS.
Ruthless? The politicians are all the same. Thou art a Theban. I am acquainted with the accent of Thebes. Cebes is from Thebes.
PROMETHEUS.
I am a Theban. That is true!
CEBES.
I am a Theban also. Wherefore hast thou come to Elis?
PERSEPHONE.
I was told to come to speak to thee, the Pythagoreans.
SIMMIAS.
Who told thee to come to speak to us?
PROMETHEUS.
If ye must know the answer to that particular question, a voice of a stranger told me to come.
CEBES.
A stranger? What stranger? Thou art a student of Persephone? Since when?
PROMETHEUS.
For some time now, and I admit that there is none wiser than him.
CEBES.
That was said of the poor Socrates, and he was poisoned to death. I wonder if Plato shall meet the same fate as his mentor! As for this stranger, what canst thou tell me of this stranger?
PROMETHEUS.
I do not know, but perhaps I shall know in time!
PERSEPHONE.
Plato is wise, and as for Socrates, he is now amongst the immortal ones of the universe.
SIMMIAS.
Thou knowest, Persephone, of the affinity we shared with Socrates. Although we did not agree with everything he opined, his philosophy is to be commended.
CEBES.
Tell me, young man, what dost thou think of philosophy?
PROMETHEUS.
I do not know if I can define philosophy until I have found the universal truth.
CEBES.
Thy student remindeth me of Anaxagoras, a young man that spent his life in search of the nature and truth of philosophy.
SIMMIAS.
What universal truth?
PROMETHEUS.
The universal truth that correspondeth to the reason for everything that is universal, I suppose. I repeat, until I find this truth, I am at a loss and disadvantage.
SIMMIAS.
Persephone, thou hast brought to our city a wishful student that is on a quest for knowledge and his destiny. And he speaketh of a stranger that he only heard speaking. That is very interesting, but at the same time, not prudent. It is dangerous to speak about things in public that are not completely Greek in knowledge.
PERSEPHONE.
That is so! Nevertheless, this young man shall find his truth. Do not worry, for there is much he must learn before he can become a wise philosopher.
PROMETHEUS.
Tell me, wise Pythagoreans, where shall I go next to find this universal truth and my destiny?
SIMMIAS.
I am no soothsayer, but if thou art convinced that thou hast spoken to a voice, then go and find this universal truth of thine. Perhaps this episode of thine could resolve thy mystery.
ACT V
SCENE I
At the Agora in Athens, Greece.
Prometheus has returned to Athens in search of his universal truth. He knows he risks execution if discovered by Mikrion. He is sheltered by Persephone’s students, Nichomachos and Sophoklos.
SOPHOKLOS
We were sent by a messenger—tidings of thine exile, and Persephone’s too.
PROMETHEUS
I could not bear to risk Persephone’s safety.
NICHOMACHOS
But why return, knowing thou wert banished?
PROMETHEUS
I had no choice. I was compelled to come back.
NICHOMACHOS
Thou dost not fear immediate arrest?
SOPHOKLOS
Thou sayest thou had to return, yet hast given no reason.
PROMETHEUS
Ye would not understand me, even were I to explain.
NICHOMACHOS
Do speak on—we are most eager to hear thy reason.
PROMETHEUS
I returned to Athens because I had a most peculiar dream—unlike any I have ever known.
SOPHOKLOS
What kind of dream, Prometheus?
PROMETHEUS
I was sleeping in a grotto when I awoke to hear a strange voice speaking to me.
NICHOMACHOS
A voice? What manner of voice? And what message did it bear?
PROMETHEUS
I cannot say what it truly was. As for the message—it bade me go to Elis and speak with the Pythagoreans. And so I did. I heard only the voice—nothing more.
NICHOMACHOS
Surely thou must have seen some form or figure, something to indicate the voice’s nature?
PROMETHEUS
I swear he bore no appearance—none that I could discern.
SOPHOKLOS
Then what remaineth to thee of that encounter? What dost thou remember?
PROMETHEUS
Only the voice—and his instruction to go to Elis. That is all.
NICHOMACHOS
And this is what compelled thee to return?
PROMETHEUS
To find the universal truth that I seek—and to fulfil my destiny.
SOPHOKLOS
The universal truth?
PROMETHEUS
Aye.
SOPHOKLOS
Why believe it lieth here, in Athens?
NICHOMACHOS
What is this universal truth?
PROMETHEUS
I cannot say. Only that my instinct draweth me here—stronger than reason or fear.
NICHOMACHOS
I admire thy philosophical pursuit. Yet, the city is under tight control. Mikrion and the rest of the Senate—those tyrants—have oppressed us severely. Since Socrates’ death, the lot of philosophers has grown ever worse. His students, like Apollodorus and Echecrates, remain in hiding. Come now—to mine home. There thou shalt be safe!
PROMETHEUS
I do not fear Mikrion, nor the brashness of his loyal entourage.
SCENE II
At the home of Nichomachos in Athens, Greece.
Outside Nichomachos’ home, two guards arrive to arrest Prometheus and escort him to Mikrion. Sophoklos and Hediste are present.
MIKRION
Thou darest to defy the authority of Athens! And thy friends—accomplices, it would seem!
PROMETHEUS
It is I whom thou seekest—not them! Leave them be, for they have committed no crime.
MIKRION
For now, I shall not detain them. But as for thee, thou art under arrest—and shalt be executed.
NICHOMACHOS
On what charge? He could not have corrupted the youth—he only just arrived!
MIKRION
On the same charge! I warned him not to return. He disobeyed—and must pay the price.
HEDISTE
Will thou poison him, as thou didst Socrates?
MIKRION
His punishment shall follow the laws that govern women.
PROMETHEUS
Have I not the right to a trial?
MIKRION
Under Athenian law—no! That right is reserved for citizens alone.
PROMETHEUS
Then what shall become of me? I deserve to know!
MIKRION
That is where thou art mistaken, Theban. In Athens, thou hast no rights—thou art not a citizen.
NICHOMACHOS
And thine judgement is death?
MIKRION
Nay! Death would be far too easy. I have something far worse in mind.
PROMETHEUS
And what is this punishment?
MIKRION
Thou shalt become a slave—bound to my will and whims, for my amusement.
HEDISTE
By Zeus! He is no slave—he is a proud Theban!
MIKRION
Take him away!
PROMETHEUS
Whither am I to be taken?
MIKRION
To the prison cell—where all common criminals are held.
NICHOMACHOS
He is no common criminal—and thou knowest this!
PROMETHEUS
There is no need for struggle—I shall go with thee, willingly.
MIKRION
Then let us depart.
HEDISTE
We shall not forsake thee, Prometheus! We shall do all within our power to set thee free!
The guards escort Prometheus to a prison cell outside the city of Athens.
SCENE III
A field outside Athens, Greece.
Prometheus has become Mikrion’s slave. After a month, he escapes, but is recaptured. His punishment is to have his face burnt and disfigured. He is then thrown into a dark, solitary dungeon to be humiliated.
MIKRION.
Thou seemest to endure pain well, but let us see how thou withstandest the torment of darkness and solitude.
PROMETHEUS.
Wherefore hast thou burnt my face and shamed me with such scorn?
MIKRION.
So that thou might learn from thy transgressions and never commit the same again. Thou art my slave—do not forget that truth!
PROMETHEUS.
Thou canst scar my flesh, but thou shalt not break my will! Kill me now, ere I become a senticous thorn to thy side, pricking thee till the day of thy death.
MIKRION.
That day shall not come soon, and thou shalt not live to see that finality, Theban.
PROMETHEUS.
Thou art mistaken, Mikrion. I shall be there—and I shall make thee pay dearly for this wretched scar.
MIKRION.
How, if I may ask?
PROMETHEUS.
Thou shalt know, when the moment is ripe.
MIKRION.
Is that a threat, Theban?
PROMETHEUS.
Take it for what it is!
MIKRION.
If I were not thy master and thou not my slave, I should consider such insolence a grave threat indeed.
PROMETHEUS.
I am only a slave in body, not in soul. Thou canst inflict pain, but thou shalt never destroy me.
MIKRION.
Whatever thou sayest is of no concern to me.
PROMETHEUS.
Fear not me, but my wrath—for it shall not be merciful unto thee. I am a formidable adversary!
MIKRION.
I shall leave thee in this wretched dungeon to ponder thine inescapable truth.
PROMETHEUS.
Thou mayest leave me to the misery of solitude, but I swear, my time here shall end.
MIKRION.
I shall return on the morrow, to see how much more thou hast suffered.
PROMETHEUS.
And I shall be here. But I shall not remain in this dungeon forever.
MIKRION.
Where else shalt thou be? Truly, how dost thou plan to escape this place?
PROMETHEUS.
Thou shalt discover that upon thy return.
MIKRION.
And who would accept thee, Theban—with that monstrous scar that covereth thy face? Thou art hideous!
PROMETHEUS.
Concern thyself not with me, but with thy own ruin.
SCENE IV
The dungeon outside Athens. Mikrion is away, and Prometheus is secretly visited by Hediste, who has come to free him. Prometheus speaks to Hediste.
HEDISTE.
Prometheus, art thou here, my friend?
PROMETHEUS.
I am here, within the bleak darkness that surroundeth me daily.
HEDISTE.
Where art thou? Come forth, that I may behold thee. I see only the shape of thy shadow.
PROMETHEUS.
I dare not. Mine ugliness preventeth me from stepping forth. Depart!
HEDISTE.
Wherefore utterest thou such a dreadful thing?
PROMETHEUS.
Because my visage is too hideous for thy beautiful eyes to suffer.
HEDISTE.
Come to me. I am here to free thee, dear Prometheus.
PROMETHEUS.
Go. Forget me. I am better off dead and lost to the world.
HEDISTE.
I beg thee, emerge from the shadows. Time is precious—as is life.
Prometheus emerges, first as a shadowy figure, then clearly visible to Hediste.
PROMETHEUS.
Behold the disfigured Prometheus—a man once noble, now a monster—bearing the scar of such deformity I cannot escape. Canst thou bear to gaze upon mine abhorrent face? Canst thou sense the emptiness of mine heart?
HEDISTE.
All I see is a man of honour, whom I name a true friend. And of thine heart, there are few men with such gentleness.
PROMETHEUS.
Art thou blind to the horror that is my face, sweet Hediste?
HEDISTE.
I see thy scar, but I know thee, Prometheus. Thou shalt not remain a slave to Mikrion—or to any man.
PROMETHEUS.
Thou speakest truly. I shall exact my vengeance—cold and unrelenting—as he was to me.
HEDISTE.
Come swiftly! We must flee—ere the guards return.
PROMETHEUS.
Use the exit behind me. The guards shall not spy thee as thou departest.
HEDISTE.
Sophoklos and Nichomachos wait outside. Come with me!
PROMETHEUS.
I shall not depart until I’ve slain that wretched Mikrion!
HEDISTE.
What gain is there in that, if thou be caught again? Come! We shall find refuge outside the city. Beneath an old temple, a hidden cavern lies.
PROMETHEUS.
I cannot—yet. Go, and wait for me there, with the others. Make haste, before the guards spy thee!
HEDISTE.
Until we meet again—be safe, beloved friend!
SCENE V
At the dungeon outside of Athens, Greece.
Mikrion has returned, and Prometheus is awaiting him, with an eager disdain. What Mikrion does not know is that Prometheus has a plan—for his immediate escape, which requires the death of Mikrion. Mikrion enters the drear dungeon with a comical smirk on his face, unaware that his fate has been sealed.
MIKRION.
Theban, where art thou? Come out of the shadow of darkness forthwith. I command thee, slave! There is nowhere to go!
Prometheus emerges from the shadow of darkness and holds a dagger to Mikrion’s neck.
PROMETHEUS.
There is nowhere to go from here, thou greedy swine!
MIKRION.
Art thou going to kill me?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall!
MIKRION.
Do not! I beg of thee, my good fellow!
PROMETHEUS.
I told thee that I would be waiting eagerly for thy return—and I have!
MIKRION.
Who gave thee the dagger and freed thee?
PROMETHEUS.
Who gave me the dagger is not important, nor who freed me—but the fact that I press it against thy neck is.
MIKRION.
Be rational! If thou killest me, thou shalt still be a slave or a renegade of the law.
PROMETHEUS.
I care not whether I be deemed one or the other by thy society. All that mattereth to me is to be rid of thee, my vile oppressor.
MIKRION.
Think hard—about the wealth and prominent status thou couldst be bestowed by me, if thou allowest me to live.
PROMETHEUS.
Dost thou think I can trust thee after all thou hast done to me willingly? I cannot forget thine humiliation and epicaricacy!
MIKRION.
Thou canst! I give thee my solemn word—as an Athenian!
PROMETHEUS.
Dost thou take me for a fool? I know that the minute thou art free, thou shalt punish me!
MIKRION.
What shalt thou gain from my death, except thy own?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall gain my freedom—and my vengeance as well!
MIKRION.
What shall the purpose of that vengeance serve truly, if thou diest afterwards? It shall serve thee nothing!
PROMETHEUS.
Perhaps! Nevertheless, ’tis my life. I have been thy slave, but now—before thou perishest under the blade of my dagger—thou shalt die a worse death than a slave—a coward’s death!
MIKRION.
If I am to die today at the hands of a slave, then I shall leave this world saying—thou art Theban, inferior to me. I shall die a powerful man, and thou a wretched slave!
Mikrion begins to laugh at Prometheus, taunting him.
PROMETHEUS.
Perhaps! But ’tis a wretched slave that hath slain a powerful man, whose power cannot save him. Where is thy power now, Athenian? Behold—the power of this dagger!
Prometheus stabs Mikrion in the heart several times. Mikrion falls to the ground and dies a dishonourable death. Prometheus escapes the prison through the back entrance and joins the others at the abandoned cave.
SCENE V
At the city of Megara in Greece.
Prometheus is informed that Demotimos, his good friend who betrayed him, is hiding in the city. He discovers him walking towards a temple at night, alone. There he waits to encounter him, unbeknownst to Demotimos—wearing a mask.
PROMETHEUS.
How dastardly thou hast gone to avoid me, my dear friend!
DEMOTIMOS.
Prometheus? How didst thou find me here in Megara? Wherefore dost thou have thy face covered with a mask?
PROMETHEUS.
Thou shalt know the answer truly, and soon. But didst thou think I would never locate the man who caused my slavery?
DEMOTIMOS.
I can explain it all, my good friend! I was forced to comply—or I would have been executed by Mikrion!
PROMETHEUS.
I see the Megarians have treated thee well! Thou wert always enamoured with luxury, immersed in endless revelry and jollification—but I never thought thou wouldst betray me so cowardly!
DEMOTIMOS.
I tell thee—I had no other option!
PROMETHEUS.
I would call thee a hedonist with thine affectation, but thou art worse than the Epicureans. At least they value the virtue of a man. Thy debauchery and indulgence for pleasure and delectation hath condemned thy soul to eternal Hades. Thou wouldst seek the wealth of Tantalus and the astuteness of Daedalus before the nobility of Empedocles!
DEMOTIMOS.
Really, Prometheus? Who dost thou think thou art to condemn me—an inept poet who fancieth himself to be on a quest for knowledge and destiny? Who is the idiot from amongst us two?
PROMETHEUS.
Indeed—I may be the idiot or ignoramus that believeth in such things, but I’d rather be an idiot than a traitor without scruple.
DEMOTIMOS.
What dost thou plan on doing to me? Hast thou come to murder me?
PROMETHEUS.
Soon, thou shalt be aware of mine action.
DEMOTIMOS.
Surely, thou knowest that if thou murderest me, thou shalt become a criminal!
PROMETHEUS.
Perchance. However, I care little what society shall deem me. I care not if I be named a criminal or assassin—as long as I can avenge the wrong done unto me.
DEMOTIMOS.
Then, thou hast come to Megara to murder me? Is that not so?
PROMETHEUS.
What dost thou think I should do with a traitor, Demotimos?
DEMOTIMOS.
I do not know! Why dost thou not proceed to tell me?
PROMETHEUS.
If the situation were reversed—wouldst thou not seek revenge?
DEMOTIMOS.
It would all depend!
PROMETHEUS.
It dependeth on what? How so?
DEMOTIMOS.
Whether or not one of us was an actual murderer.
PROMETHEUS.
Thou wert never good at the art of lying, Demotimos. I see thou hast destroyed any goodness in thee, and hast become a man of imbonity. We were once inseparable friends, but now all I see before me is a rapacious man who hath forsaken his loyal friend for wealth—volitionally.
Prometheus throws the golden coins he took from Mikrion onto the floor. Demotimos picks up the coins and then utters:
DEMOTIMOS.
Thou art a foolish man that envisioneth himself a poet and philosopher. If thou art to murder me, then be done with the deed now. Art thou not brave enough?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall do to thee what thou didst not do to me.
DEMOTIMOS.
And what is that?
PROMETHEUS.
I shall be merciful.
DEMOTIMOS.
Merciful? Look at thee! Thou art a runaway slave whom I could report to the authorities at once—if I desire to effectuate that intention.
PROMETHEUS.
True. But before I go, I shall leave thee with a reminder of my misery.
Thou asked why my face is covered. I shall show thee—gladly.
Prometheus removes the mask that covers his face. Demotimos stares at his scarred face with the utmost disgust.
DEMOTIMOS.
Poor devil! Mikrion hath scarred thy face forever and made thee a hideous monster.
Thou art a monster!
PROMETHEUS.
Look upon my face and scar for the last time—for thou shalt remember the man that left thy face scarred!
Prometheus draws his sharp dagger and cuts the flesh off the lower countenance of Demotimos, leaving a heavy scar as evidence. Demotimos screams and falls to the ground. Prometheus abruptly flees the scene.
SCENE VI.
At the port of Athens, Greece.
Prometheus secretly returns to Athens to seek Hediste and the others. After this, he departs the ancient city of Athens by boat, but not before he speaks to Hediste, for the last time.
HEDISTE.
Whither wilt thou go, my dear friend Prometheus?
PROMETHEUS.
That I know not precisely! To Sparta, Crete, Thessaly, Rhodes, or the Peloponnese, betwixt the Ionian and Aegean Seas. I have heard tell of the lands of the Peloponnese and the regions of Laconia in the southeast, Messenia in the southwest, Elis in the west, Achaia in the north, Korinthia in the northeast, and Argolis in the east. I have also heard of the great cities of Macedon—Methone, Pyda, Potidaea, and Stageira.
HEDISTE.
Wilt thou ever return to Athens again?
PROMETHEUS.
Perhaps one day, I shall return!
HEDISTE.
Why must thou leave?
PROMETHEUS.
I erred, selfishly believing that my destiny and the pursuit of knowledge could be fulfilled in Athens alone. I now possess more knowledge than I did before. And as for my destiny, I must seek it—from land to sea!
HEDISTE.
What dost thou mean by such words?
PROMETHEUS.
I have discovered much knowledge within myself, and in the words of Persephone. There are countless others—like Persephone, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle—from whom to learn. But I ask thee, what good is the knowledge of the few if it be not guided by the wisdom of the many? Should I feel fear or shame, when I possess neither, having naught to fear nor be ashamed of? I now understand that the body is the hindrance to grasping the ultimate truth. We must escape the troubles and uncontrollable cravings of the body. Death is but the liberation of the body; the soul is the eternal flame. We attain justice and virtue through the exercise of wisdom. Mine old friend who betrayed me—Demotimos—never understood this truth. Alas, I must bear the scar of mine ugliness for evermore, wherever I may go.
HEDISTE.
Thy scar altereth not mine affection for thee. Socrates once questioned whether virtue is taught, or acquired by practice, or through one’s nature. There are sages who say the soul is immortal, and that at birth we already possess all theoretical knowledge. Thus, in moral enquiry, there is hope—that by rightly questioning ourselves, we may recollect what we have forgotten, and gradually improve our understanding of mortal truth, ultimately arriving at full knowledge.
PROMETHEUS.
Where there is piety, there must also be the firm hand of justice to accompany it.
HEDISTE.
And the universal truth? Hast thou found it?
PROMETHEUS.
I recall Persephone once saying that a universal truth is one that corresponds with reality, and if it is truly universal, it applies always and everywhere. It is a clear statement reflecting reality regardless of time or place. For example, “ten is greater than five”—not a profound notion, but undeniably true. Yet I believe that for many, the universal truth is simply the only truth they know—be it through experience or knowledge.
HEDISTE.
A daunting thought indeed, if that be so! And what of thy destiny? Hast thou found it?
PROMETHEUS.
Time mattereth not, for I shall find it—perhaps one day soon! Protagoras once said, “Man is the measure of all things.” I have learnt that time is the inescapable force that humankind vainly believes it can hasten—when in truth, its course cannot be altered.
HEDISTE.
Socrates once said, “True wisdom comes to each of us when we realise how little we understand about life, ourselves, and the world around us.”
PROMETHEUS.
My philosophical journey hath only just begun, Hediste! I must learn from the tragedy and tribulation born of the curse of mine own existence.
HEDISTE.
But wilt thou wear that wretched mask for ever, wheresoever thou goest?
PROMETHEUS.
That I know not. It is a sorrow that I cannot be seen in public with a woman as beautiful as thee, without causing commotion amongst the people.
HEDISTE.
And what of the stranger in thy dream?
PROMETHEUS.
That I cannot answer with certainty, for I know not if he even existeth.
HEDISTE.
Return—please return. I shall wait for thee, with longing in mine heart, to see thee again, my friend.
PROMETHEUS.
One day, we shall meet again, and thou shalt hear of mine incredible journeys and mine innermost passions!
HEDISTE.
Go with the gods, Prometheus!
PROMETHEUS.
Farewell, my beloved Hediste!
The End!