Euripides, Medea
David Kovacs, Ed.

Jason
I approve this, woman. Nor do I blame your earlier resentment. For it is natural for a woman to get angry [910] when a marriage of a different sort presents itself to the husband. But your thoughts have changed for the better, and though it took time, you have recognized the superior plan. These are the acts of a prudent woman. Children, your father has given anxious thought [915] and has secured for you—with the gods' help—abundant prosperity. I think that some day with your new brothers you will hold the very first place in the land of Corinth. But grow to manhood. The rest your father will see to, with the help of whatever god it is that smiles on him. [920] May I see you as fine strapping lads coming to young manhood, victorious over my enemies!

Medea turns away weeping.
You there, why do you dampen your eyes with pale tears and turn your white cheek away, and why are you not pleased to hear these words from me?

Medea
[925] It is nothing. I was thinking about the children.

Jason
But why, poor soul, do you lament over these children?

Medea
I gave them birth, and when you prayed that they might live, I felt pity for them wondering whether this would be.

Jason
Have no fear! I shall take good care of that.

Medea
[927] I shall do so. I will not distrust your words. But a woman is by nature female and prone to tears.

But of the reasons for our conversation, some have been spoken of, others I shall mention now. The rulers of this land have resolved to exile me— [935] and it is all for the best for me, I am well aware, that I not stay where I am in your way or that of the country's rulers, for I am thought to be an enemy to this house. Therefore I for my part shall leave this land in exile. But in order that the children may be raised by you, [940] beg Creon that they not be sent into exile.