Quote from “The Eumenides”:
“But for me to suffer such disgrace… I, the proud heart of the past, driven under the earth, / condemned, like so much filth, / and the fury in me breathing hatred – / O good Earth, / what is this stealing under the breast, what agony racks the spirit?… Night, dear / Mother Night! All’s lost, our ancient powers torn away by their cunning, ruthless hands, the gods so/ hard to wrestle down / obliterate us all.” (848 – 856)
Brief Explanation: This quote is regarding the strength of Athena’s power. The Furies are crying to Night, their mother, of the unfairness that they have just experienced. They seem to be at conflict with the offer that Athena has given them.
Reading Question: Why don’t the furies just follow Athena’s orders without hesitation? Why don’t the Furies try to go after Clytemnestra for killing Agamemnon?
