No Fear Shakespeare: Titus Andronicus: Act 1 Scene 1

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Flourish. Enter the TRIBUNES (including MARCUS ANDRONICUS) and SENATORS aloft. And then enter, below, SATURNINUS and his followers at one door, and BASSIANUS and his followers at another door, with other Romans, Drums, and Trumpets.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. The TRIBUNES (including MARCUS ANDRONICUS) and SENATORS enter on the upper stage, the setting that represents the Capitol/Senate House. And then, below, SATURNINUS and his followers enter at one door, and BASSIANUS and his followers enter at another door, with other Romans, Drums, and Trumpets.
SATURNINUS Noble patricians, patrons of my right, Defend the justice of my cause with arms. And countrymen, my loving followers, Plead my successive title with your swords. 5 I am his firstborn son that was the last That wore the imperial diadem of Rome. Then let my father’s honors live in me, Nor wrong mine age with this indignity.	SATURNINUS Noble patricians Patricians were members of elite Roman families from which leading figures (senators, counsels, etc.) were selected. Noble patricians, supporters of my right to rule, defend my just cause with weapons. And countrymen, my loving followers, fight for my inheritance with your swords. I am the firstborn son of the last King of Rome. So, my father’s honors should be passed down to me. Don’t disrespect my inheritance.
BASSIANUS Romans, friends, followers, favorers of my right, 10 If ever Bassianus, Caesar’s son, Were gracious in the eyes of royal Rome, Keep, then, this passage to the Capitol, And suffer not dishonor to approach The imperial seat, to virtue consecrate, 15 To justice, continence, and nobility; But let desert in pure election shine, And, Romans, fight for freedom in your choice.	BASSIANUS Romans, friends, followers, supporters of my right to rule, if Bassianus, Caesar’s son Roman emperors were often called “Caesar” in honor of both Julius and Augustus Caesar, who ruled during the early empire. Bassianus is the second son of the late emperor. Caesar’s son, was ever worthy in the eyes of royal Rome, then block this man’s path to the Capitol, and don’t allow dishonor to approach the imperial throne, which is dedicated to virtue, justice, moderation, and nobility. Elect the man who deserves the throne, and, Romans, fight for your right to choose.
MARCUS (aloft, stepping forward and holding up the crown) Princes that strive by factions and by friends Ambitiously for rule and empery, 20 Know that the people of Rome, for whom we stand A special party, have by common voice, In election for the Roman empery, Chosen Andronicus, surnamèd Pius For many good and great deserts to Rome. 25 A nobler man, a braver warrior, Lives not this day within the city walls. He by the Senate is accited home From weary wars against the barbarous Goths, That with his sons, a terror to our foes, 30 Hath yoked a nation strong, trained up in arms. Ten years are spent since first he undertook This cause of Rome, and chastisèd with arms Our enemies’ pride. Five times he hath returned Bleeding to Rome, bearing his valiant sons 35 In coffins from the field. And now at last, laden with honor’s spoils, Returns the good Andronicus to Rome, Renownèd Titus flourishing in arms. Let us entreat, by honor of his name 40 Whom worthily you would have now succeed, And in the Capitol and Senate’s right, Whom you pretend to honor and adore, That you withdraw you and abate your strength, Dismiss your followers and, as suitors should, 45 Plead your deserts in peace and humbleness.	MARCUS (on the upper stage, stepping forward and holding up the crown) You princes who are striving to rule as emperor: You need to know that the Roman people, whom I represent, have voted in the election for the Roman emperor, and they have elected Andronicus, a man who has done so many great things for Rome he was given the name “Pius.” There is no nobler man or braver warrior in the city. He has been summoned home by the Senate from the exhausting wars against the barbaric Goths "Goths" were Germanic people who raided and otherwise harassed the Roman Empire for centuries. Goths , who, along with his sons, have terrorized our enemies and conquered a fierce warrior nation. It’s been ten years since he first took up the cause of Rome and punished our enemies’ pride in combat. He’s come back wounded to Rome five times, carrying his brave sons in coffins from the battlefield. And now, at last, overloaded with honors, the good Andronicus returns to Rome, the famous Titus at the height of his power. Out of respect for the emperor, whom you now wish to have a worthy successor, and for the rights of the Capitol and Senate, whom you claim to honor and worship, we urge you to listen to this advice: Withdraw and pull back your forces, dismiss your followers, and make your case peacefully and humbly, as petitioners should.
SATURNINUS How fair the tribune speaks to calm my thoughts!	SATURNINUS This tribune A tribune is an officer who has been elected to protect the interests and rights of the people. tribune speaks well and puts me at ease.
BASSIANUS Marcus Andronicus, so I do affy In thy uprightness and integrity, And so I love and honor thee and thine, 50 Thy noble brother Titus and his sons, And her to whom my thoughts are humbled all, Gracious Lavinia, Rome’s rich ornament, That I will here dismiss my loving friends, And to my fortunes and the people’s favor 55 Commit my cause in balance to be weighed.	BASSIANUS Marcus Andronicus, I trust your honesty and integrity, and I love and honor you and your family, your noble brother, Titus, his sons, and gracious Lavinia, Rome’s rich ornament, whom I wholly adore. Therefore, I will dismiss my loving friends and let the people decide my fate.
BASSIANUS’ SOLDIERS exit.	BASSIANUS’S SOLDIERS exit.
SATURNINUS Friends that have been thus forward in my right, I thank you all and here dismiss you all, And to the love and favor of my country Commit myself, my person, and the cause. SATURNINUS’ SOLDIERS exit. 60 Rome, be as just and gracious unto me As I am confident and kind to thee. Open the gates and let me in.	SATURNINUS Friends who have supported my claim thus far, I thank you all and dismiss you. I will rely on the love and respect of my country to judge my cause. SATURNINUS’S SOLDIERS exit. Rome, be as fair and gracious to me as I am trusting and kind to you. Open the gates and let me in.
BASSIANUS Tribunes, and me, a poor competitor.	BASSIANUS And me, tribunes, a poor fellow candidate.
Flourish. They exit to go up into the Senate House. The TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit from the upper stage. Enter a CAPTAIN.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. They exit to go up into the Senate House. The TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit from the upper stage. A CAPTAIN enters.
CAPTAIN Romans, make way! The good Andronicus, 65 Patron of virtue, Rome’s best champion, Successful in the battles that he fights, With honor and with fortune is returned From where he circumscribèd with his sword And brought to yoke the enemies of Rome.	CAPTAIN Romans, make way! The good Andronicus, model of virtue, Rome’s best champion, victorious in the battles he fights, returns with honor and good fortune from where he defeated the enemies of Rome and subdued them with his sword.
Sound drums and trumpets, and then enter two of TITUS’ sons (LUCIUS and MUTIUS) and then two men bearing a coffin covered with black, then two other sons (MARTIUS and QUINTUS), then TITUS ANDRONICUS, and then TAMORA the Queen of Goths and her sons ALARBUS, CHIRON and DEMETRIUS, with AARON the Moor, and others as many as can be, then set down the coffin, and TITUS speaks.	Drums and trumpets play, and then two of TITUS’s sons (LUCIUS and MUTIUS) enter, followed by two men bearing a coffin covered with black, followed by two other sons (MARTIUS and QUINTUS), followed by TITUS ANDRONICUS, and then TAMORA the Queen of Goths and her sons ALARBUS, CHIRON, and DEMETRIUS, with AARON the Moor, and a large group of others. Men set down the coffin, and TITUS speaks.
TITUS 70 Hail Rome, victorious in thy mourning weeds! Lo, as the bark that hath discharged his fraught Returns with precious lading to the bay From whence at first she weighed her anchorage, Cometh Andronicus, bound with laurel boughs, 75 To resalute his country with his tears, Tears of true joy for his return to Rome. Thou great defender of this Capitol, Stand gracious to the rites that we intend. Romans, of five-and-twenty valiant sons, 80 Half of the number that King Priam had, Behold the poor remains alive and dead. These that survive let Rome reward with love; These that I bring unto their latest home, With burial amongst their ancestors. 85 Here Goths have given me leave to sheathe my sword. Titus, unkind and careless of thine own, Why suffer’st thou thy sons unburied yet To hover on the dreadful shore of Styx? Make way to lay them by their brethren. They open the tomb. 90 There greet in silence, as the dead are wont, And sleep in peace, slain in your country’s wars. O sacred receptacle of my joys, Sweet cell of virtue and nobility, How many sons hast thou of mine in store 95 That thou wilt never render to me more?	TITUS Greetings, Rome, victorious in your mourning clothes! See, like a ship that has unloaded its freight returns with precious cargo to the bay she departed from, here comes Andronicus, crowned with laurels of victory, to re-salute his country with tears, tears of true joy for his return to Rome. Great defender of this Capitol, graciously accept the ceremonies we’re planning. Romans, you can see here the outcome, both alive and dead, of twenty-five brave sons, half the number that King Priam King Priam, the King of Troy during the Trojan War, supposedly had fifty sons. King Priam had. Let Rome reward the survivors with love. Give these others, which I have brought to their last home, a burial among their ancestors. The Goths have allowed me to put my sword away. Titus, unkind and careless to your own family, why have you let your unburied sons wait on the dreadful shores of the Styx In Greek mythology, the souls of the dead had to pass over Styx, the main river of Hades, to get to the afterworld. Styx? Make way so I can lay them with their brothers. They open the tomb. There you can greet each other in silence, as the dead do, and sleep in peace, you who were killed in your country’s wars. Oh, sacred tomb that holds my joy, that sweetly stores virtue and nobility, how many of my sons are in there that you will never give back?
LUCIUS Give us the proudest prisoner of the Goths, That we may hew his limbs and on a pile, Ad manes fratrum, sacrifice his flesh Before this earthy prison of their bones, 100 That so the shadows be not unappeased, Nor we disturbed with prodigies on Earth.	LUCIUS Give us the noblest prisoner of the Goths so we can hack off his limbs and sacrifice his body on a pyre to the ghosts of the brothers who have died Ad manes fratrum is Latin for “to the ghosts of the brothers.” died. Let’s do it here, in front of this earthly container of their bones, so that their ghosts will be at rest, and we won’t be haunted by them on Earth.
TITUS I give him you, the noblest that survives, The eldest son of this distressèd queen.	TITUS I give you this man, the noblest of the survivors, the oldest son of this distraught queen.
TAMORA Stay, Roman brethren!—Gracious conqueror, 105 Victorious Titus, rue the tears I shed, A mother’s tears in passion for her son. And if thy sons were ever dear to thee, O think my son to be as dear to me. Sufficeth not that we are brought to Rome 110 To beautify thy triumphs and return Captive to thee and to thy Roman yoke, But must my sons be slaughtered in the streets For valiant doings in their country’s cause? O, if to fight for king and commonweal 115 Were piety in thine, it is in these! She kneels. Andronicus, stain not thy tomb with blood. Wilt thou draw near the nature of the gods? Draw near them then in being merciful. Sweet mercy is nobility’s true badge. 120 Thrice-noble Titus, spare my first-born son.	TAMORA Stop, Roman brothers!—Gracious conqueror, victorious Titus, pity the tears I shed, a mother’s emotional tears for her son. If you ever loved your sons, know that I love my son just as much. Isn’t it enough that we have been brought to Rome to show off your triumph and be enslaved to you and Rome? Must my sons be slaughtered in the streets for their brave actions on behalf of their country? Oh, if you consider it holy to fight for your king and country, then it is for my sons, too! She kneels. Andronicus, don’t stain your tomb with blood. Do you want to be like the gods-? Then be as merciful as they are. Sweet mercy is the truest sign of nobility. Supremely noble Titus, spare my first-born son.
TITUS Patient yourself, madam, and pardon me. These are their brethren whom your Goths beheld Alive and dead, and for their brethren slain Religiously they ask a sacrifice. 125 To this your son is marked, and die he must, T’ appease their groaning shadows that are gone.	TITUS Calm down, madam, and I’m sorry. These are the brothers of those you saw alive and dead, and they are asking for a holy sacrifice for their slain brothers. Your son has been chosen for this, so he must die to satisfy the groaning ghosts of the dead.
LUCIUS Away with him, and make a fire straight, And with our swords upon a pile of wood Let’s hew his limbs till they be clean consumed.	LUCIUS Take him away, and make a fire at once. Let’s hack his limbs with our swords on the pile of wood until he’s consumed by flames.
Exit TITUS’ sons with ALARBUS.	TITUS ’s sons exit with ALARBUS.
TAMORA (rising and speaking aside to her sons) 130 O cruel, irreligious piety!	TAMORA (rising and speaking aside to her sons) Oh cruel, unholy piety!
CHIRON (aside to TAMORA and DEMETRIUS) Was never Scythia half so barbarous!	CHIRON (aside to TAMORA and DEMETRIUS) The Scythians The Scythians were nomadic people who were feared and admired for their prowess in war. Scythians were never half as barbaric!
DEMETRIUS (aside to TAMORA and CHIRON) Oppose not Scythia to ambitious Rome! Alarbus goes to rest and we survive To tremble under Titus’ threat’ning look. 135 Then, madam, stand resolved, but hope withal The selfsame gods that armed the Queen of Troy With opportunity of sharp revenge Upon the Thracian tyrant in his tent May favor Tamora the Queen of Goths 140 (When Goths were Goths, and Tamora was queen) To quit the bloody wrongs upon her foes.	DEMETRIUS (aside to TAMORA and CHIRON) Scythians don’t compare to ambitious Romans! Alarbus is dead, and we live only to tremble under Titus’s threatening rule. So, madam, just let it go. But have hope that the same gods who enabled the Queen of Troy to take revenge on the Thracian tyrant Hecuba, King Priam's wife and the vanquished queen of Troy, took revenge on Polymestor, the Greek who murdered her youngest son, by stabbing out his eyes and later murdered his two sons. tyrant in his tent will also enable Tamora the Queen of the Goths—when the Goths were a people and Tamora was their queen—to take revenge on her enemies.
Enter the sons of ANDRONICUS again with bloody swords.	The sons of ANDRONICUS enter again with bloody swords.
LUCIUS See, lord and father, how we have performed Our Roman rites. Alarbus’ limbs are lopped, And entrails feed the sacrificing fire, 145 Whose smoke like incense doth perfume the sky. Remaineth naught but to inter our brethren, And with loud larums welcome them to Rome.	LUCIUS See, lord and father, how we have made our Roman sacrifice. Alarbus’s limbs are cut off and his guts feed the fire, as the smoke perfumes the sky like incense. There’s nothing left to do but to bury our brothers and, with great trumpet calls, welcome them to Rome.
TITUS Let it be so. And let Andronicus Make this his latest farewell to their souls. Sound trumpets, and lay the coffin in the tomb. 150 In peace and honor rest you here, my sons, Rome’s readiest champions, repose you here in rest, Secure from worldly chances and mishaps. Here lurks no treason, here no envy swells, Here grow no damnèd drugs; here are no storms, 155 No noise, but silence and eternal sleep. In peace and honor rest you here, my sons.	TITUS Get on with it, then. And let Andronicus say his last goodbye to their souls. Trumpets sound as the coffin is laid in the tomb. Rest in peace and honor here, my sons. Rome’s most expert champions, lie here and rest, safe from earthly misfortune and accidents. No treason lurks here, no envy arises here, no poisonous plants grow here, no storms are here, no noise, but silence and eternal sleep. Rest here in peace and honor, my sons.
Enter LAVINIA.	LAVINIA enters.
LAVINIA In peace and honor live Lord Titus long; My noble lord and father, live in fame. She kneels. Lo, at this tomb my tributary tears 160 I render for my brethren’s obsequies, And at thy feet I kneel, with tears of joy Shed on this earth for thy return to Rome. O bless me here with thy victorious hand, Whose fortunes Rome’s best citizens applaud.	LAVINIA May Lord Titus have a long life in peace and honor. My noble lord and father, live on through your fame. She kneels. See, at this tomb my tearspay tribute to my brother’s funeral rites, and I kneel at your feet with tears of joy falling on this earth for your return to Rome. Oh bless me with your victorious hand, which is applauded by Rome’s greatest citizens.
TITUS 165 Kind Rome, that hast thus lovingly reserved The cordial of mine age to glad my heart!— Lavinia, live, outlive thy father’s days And fame’s eternal date, for virtue’s praise.	TITUS Kind Rome, you have loved and nourished me in my old age, which strengthens my heart!—Lavinia, live, outlive your father, and may you be remembered for your virtue until the end of time.
LAVINIA rises.	LAVINIA rises.
Enter MARCUS ANDRONICUS, carrying a white robe.	MARCUS ANDRONICUS enters carrying a white robe.
Enter aloft SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, TRIBUNES, SENATORS, and GUARDS.	SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, TRIBUNES, SENATORS, and GUARDS enter on the upper stage.
MARCUS Long live Lord Titus, my belovèd brother, 170 Gracious triumpher in the eyes of Rome.	MARCUS Long live Lord Titus, my beloved brother, gracious victor in the eyes of Rome.
TITUS Thanks, gentle tribune, noble brother Marcus.	TITUS Thanks, kind tribune, noble brother Marcus.
MARCUS And welcome, nephews, from successful wars— You that survive, and you that sleep in fame. Fair lords, your fortunes are alike in all, 175 That in your country’s service drew your swords; But safer triumph is this funeral pomp, That hath aspired to Solon’s happiness, And triumphs over chance in honor’s bed.— Titus Andronicus, the people of Rome, 180 Whose friend in justice thou hast ever been, Send thee by me, their tribune and their trust, This palliament of white and spotless hue, And name thee in election for the empire With these our late deceasèd emperor’s sons. 185 Be candidatus, then, and put it on And help to set a head on headless Rome.	MARCUS And welcome, nephews, from successful wars—both you who survived and you who died in glory. Fair lords, you all took the same path, serving your country by drawing your swords. But their death is a greater triumph than surviving because they have found the happiness Solon Solon was an Ancient Greek philosopher who proclaimed that no man is truly happy until they are dead. Solon spoke about, something better than short-lived honor.—Titus Andronicus, the people of Rome, to whom you have always been a fair friend, have sent you, through me, their tribune and their representative, this spotless and pure white robe, and ask you to run for emperor alongside the recently-deceased emperor’s sons. So be a candidate, then, put this on, and help put a head on headless Rome.
TITUS A better head her glorious body fits Than his that shakes for age and feebleness. To TRIBUNES and SENATORS aloft. What, should I don 190 this robe and trouble you? Be chosen with proclamations today, Tomorrow yield up rule, resign my life, And set abroad new business for you all? Rome, I have been thy soldier forty years, 195 And led my country’s strength successfully, And buried one and twenty valiant sons, Knighted in field, slain manfully in arms, In right and service of their noble country. Give me a staff of honor for mine age, 200 But not a scepter to control the world. Upright he held it, lords, that held it last.	TITUS Her glorious body deserves a better head than mine, which shakes with age and weakness. To the TRIBUNES AND SENATORS on the upper stage. Why should I put on this robe and make you go through the trouble? If you elect me emperor today, tomorrow I could die, giving up my position, and then you’d have to go through the whole business all over again? Rome, I have been your soldier for forty years, and led my country’s forces successfully. I have buried twenty-one brave men, knighted in battle, killed bravely in warfare, in the justified service of their noble country. Give me a staff of honor for my old age, but not a scepter to control the whole world. The last one who held it, lords, was stronger than I am.
MARCUS Titus, thou shalt obtain and ask the empery.	MARCUS Titus, you will have emperorship if you ask for it.
SATURNINUS Proud and ambitious tribune, canst thou tell?	SATURNINUS Arrogant and ambitious tribune, how do you know that?
TITUS Patience, Prince Saturninus.	TITUS Calm down, Prince Saturninus.
SATURNINUS 205 Romans, do me right. Patricians, draw your swords and sheathe them not Till Saturninus be Rome’s emperor.— Andronicus, would thou were shipped to hell Rather than rob me of the people’s hearts.	SATURNINUS Romans, do right by me. Patricians, draw your swords and do not sheathe them until Saturninus is Rome’s emperor.—Andronicus, I’d rather you get sent to hell than steal the people’s hearts from me.
LUCIUS 210 Proud Saturnine, interrupter of the good That noble-minded Titus means to thee.	LUCIUS Arrogant Saturnine, you are preventing noble-minded Titus from doing you a favor.
TITUS Content thee, prince. I will restore to thee The people’s hearts and wean them from themselves.	TITUS Don’t worry, prince. I will return the people’s hearts to you and convince them to endorse you.
BASSIANUS Andronicus, I do not flatter thee, 215 But honor thee, and will do till I die. My faction if thou strengthen with thy friends, I will most thankful be, and thanks, to men Of noble minds, is honorable meed.	BASSIANUS Andronicus, I’m not saying this to flatter you, but I respect you, and I will until the day I die. If your supporters back me, I will be very grateful, and gratitude, to noble men, is an honorable reward.
TITUS People of Rome, and people’s tribunes here, 220 I ask your voices and your suffrages. Will you bestow them friendly on Andronicus?	TITUS People of Rome, and their representatives here, I ask for your endorsement and your vote. Would you please give them to Andronicus?
TRIBUNES To gratify the good Andronicus And gratulate his safe return to Rome, The people will accept whom he admits.	TRIBUNES To please the good Andronicus, and celebrate his safe return to Rome, the people will accept whomever he chooses.
TITUS 225 Tribunes, I thank you, and this suit I make: That you create our emperor’s eldest son, Lord Saturnine, whose virtues will, I hope, Reflect on Rome as Titan’s rays on Earth And ripen justice in this commonweal. 230 Then, if you will elect by my advice, Crown him and say “Long live our emperor.”	TITUS Tribunes, thank you, and I ask you this: that you select our emperor’s oldest son, Lord Saturnine, whose virtues will, I hope, shine down on Rome like Titan’s rays shine down upon the earth In Greek mythology, Titan is a child of Uranus, who personifies heaven. earth and ripen justice in this country. So, if you will take my advice, crown him and say, “Long live our emperor.”
MARCUS With voices and applause of every sort, Patricians and plebeians, we create Lord Saturninus Rome’s great emperor, 235 And say “Long live our Emperor Saturnine.”	MARCUS With all of our votes and approval, the politicians’ and the general public’s, we elect Lord Saturninus as Rome’s great emperor, and say “Long live our Emperor Saturnine.”
A long flourish till SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, and GUARDS come down.	A long flourish of trumpets is heard until SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, and GUARDS come downstage.
SATURNINUS Titus Andronicus, for thy favors done To us in our election this day, I give thee thanks in part of thy deserts, And will with deeds requite thy gentleness. 240 And for an onset, Titus, to advance Thy name and honorable family, Lavinia will I make my empress, Rome’s royal mistress, mistress of my heart, And in the sacred Pantheon her espouse. 245 Tell me, Andronicus, doth this motion please thee?	SATURNINUS Titus Andronicus, thank you for the favors you have done for me in my election today. I will repay the rest of your kindness in actions. And to begin, Titus, to promote your name and honorable family, I will make Lavinia my empress, Rome’s royal mistress, mistress of my heart, and in the sacred Pantheon The Pantheon is a temple in Rome that is dedicated to all the gods. Pantheon become her spouse. Tell me, Andronicus, does this make you happy?
TITUS It doth, my worthy lord, and in this match I hold me highly honored of your Grace; And here in sight of Rome to Saturnine, King and commander of our commonweal, 250 The wide world’s emperor, do I consecrate My sword, my chariot, and my prisoners, Presents well worthy Rome’s imperious lord. Receive them, then, the tribute that I owe, Mine honor’s ensigns humbled at thy feet.	TITUS It does, my lord, and I take this marriage as a high honor from your Grace. Here, with all of Rome as witness, I give Saturnine, king and commander of our nation, the emperor of this wide world, my sword, my chariot, and my prisoners, presents that are worthy of Rome’s regal lord. Take them, then, as the payment I owe you, tokens of my honor humbly laid at your feet.
SATURNINUS 255 Thanks, noble Titus, father of my life. How proud I am of thee and of thy gifts Rome shall record.—And when I do forget The least of these unspeakable deserts, Romans, forget your fealty to me.	SATURNINUS Thanks, noble Titus, wise and guiding light. Rome will know how proud I am of you and your gifts. And should I forget even the least of them, you Romans can forget your loyalty to me.
TITUS to TAMORA 260 Now, madam, are you prisoner to an emperor, To him that for your honor and your state Will use you nobly, and your followers.	TITUS to TAMORA Now, madam, you are the prisoner of an emperor. Because of your honor and your rank, he’ll treat you and your followers well.
SATURNINUS aside A goodly lady, trust me, of the hue That I would choose, were I to choose anew.— 265 Clear up, fair queen, that cloudy countenance. Though chance of war hath wrought this change of cheer, Thou com’st not to be made a scorn in Rome. Princely shall be thy usage every way. 270 Rest on my word, and let not discontent Daunt all your hopes. Madam, he comforts you Can make you greater than the Queen of Goths.— Lavinia, you are not displeased with this?	SATURNINUS aside A fine lady, trust me, who’s of the sort I would choose, if I had to choose again.—Clear the clouds from your face, fair queen. Although the fortunes of war have changed your cheerful mood, you will not be treated badly in Rome. You will be treated like a queen in every way. Trust me, and don’t lose hope. Madam, I can offer you something even greater than being the Queen of Goths. Lavinia, you aren’t unhappy about this?
LAVINIA Not I, my lord, sith true nobility 275 Warrants these words in princely courtesy.	LAVINIA I’m not unhappy, my lord. As a person of nobility, youshould extend these princely courtesies to her.
SATURNINUS Thanks, sweet Lavinia.—Romans, let us go. Ransomless here we set our prisoners free. Proclaim our honors, lords, with trump and drum.	SATURNINUS Thanks, sweet Lavinia.—Romans, let us go. Set the prisoners free without a ransom. Let’s celebrate our honor, lords, with the music of trumpets and drums.
Flourish. SATURNINUS and his GUARDS exit, with Drums and Trumpets. TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit aloft.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. SATURNINUS and his GUARDS exit as drums and trumpets play. TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit the upper stage.
BASSIANUS Lord Titus, by your leave, this maid is mine.	BASSIANUS Lord Titus, with all due respect, this girl is mine.
TITUS 280 How, sir? Are you in earnest then, my lord?	TITUS What do you mean, sir? Are you being serious, my lord?
BASSIANUS Ay, noble Titus, and resolved withal To do myself this reason and this right.	BASSIANUS Yes, noble Titus, and I’m determined to fight for her.
BASSIANUS takes LAVINIA by the arm.	BASSIANUS takes LAVINIA by the arm.
MARCUS Suum cuique is our Roman justice. This prince in justice seizeth but his own.	MARCUS “To each his own” is Roman law. The prince is only taking what is rightfully his.
LUCIUS 285 And that he will and shall, if Lucius live!	LUCIUS And he will have it, so long as I am alive!
TITUS Traitors, avaunt! Where is the Emperor’s guard? Enter SATURNINUS and his GUARDS. Treason, my lord. Lavinia is surprised.	TITUS Traitors, get out of here! Where is the Emperor’s guard? SATURNINUS and his GUARDS enter. There is treason, my lord. Lavinia has been ambushed.
SATURNINUS Surprised? By whom?	SATURNINUS Ambushed? By whom?
BASSIANUS By him that justly may 290 Bear his betrothed from all the world away.	BASSIANUS By he who has every right to carry his fiancée away from the rest of the world.
MUTIUS Brothers, help to convey her hence away, And with my sword I’ll keep this door safe.	MUTIUS Brothers, help take her away from here, and I’ll guard this door with my sword.
BASSIANUS, LAVINIA, MARCUS, LUCIUS, QUINTUS, and MARTIUS exit.	BASSIANUS, LAVINIA, MARCUS, LUCIUS, QUINTUS, and MARTIUS exit.
TITUS to SATURNINUS Follow, my lord, and I’ll soon bring her back.	TITUS to SATURNINUS Let’s follow, my lord, and I’ll bring her back soon.
SATURNINUS, TAMORA, DEMETRIUS, CHIRON, AARON, and GUARDS exit.	SATURNINUS, TAMORA, DEMETRIUS, CHIRON, AARON, and GUARDS exit.
MUTIUS 295 My lord, you pass not here.	MUTIUS My lord, you can’t pass through here.
TITUS What, villain boy, Barr’st me my way in Rome?	TITUS What, villain boy, you’re standing in my way in Rome?
He stabs MUTIUS.	He stabs MUTIUS.
MUTIUS Help, Lucius, help!	MUTIUS Help, Lucius, help!
MUTIUS dies.	MUTIUS dies.
Enter LUCIUS.	LUCIUS enters.
LUCIUS My lord, you are unjust, and more than so! In wrongful quarrel you have slain your son.	LUCIUS My lord, you are unjust and beyond unjust! You’ve killed your own son in an wicked fight.
TITUS 300 Nor thou nor he are any sons of mine. My sons would never so dishonor me. Traitor, restore Lavinia to the Emperor.	TITUS Neither of you is any son of mine. My sons would never dishonor me like that. Traitor, give Lavinia back to the Emperor.
Enter aloft the Emperor SATURNINUS with TAMORA and her two sons and AARON the Moor.	The Emperor SATURNINUS enters the upper stage, along with TAMORA and her two sons and AARON the Moor.
LUCIUS Dead if you will, but not to be his wife That is another’s lawful promised love.	LUCIUS I’ll give her to you dead, if you want, but she’ll never be his wife. She’s lawfully engaged to another.
He exits.	He exits.
SATURNINUS 305 No, Titus, no, the Emperor needs her not, Nor her, nor thee, nor any of thy stock. I’ll trust by leisure him that mocks me once, Thee never, nor thy traitorous haughty sons, Confederates all thus to dishonor me. 310 Was none in Rome to make a stale But Saturnine? Full well, Andronicus, Agree these deeds with that proud brag of thine That said’st I begged the empire at thy hands.	SATURNINUS No, Titus, no, the Emperor doesn’t need her—not her, or you, or any of your family. I might eventually learn to trust a man who mocks me once, but I’ll never trust you oryour traitorous, arrogant sons, allies who all planned to dishonor me. Was there no one else in Rome to make a laughingstock of besides Saturnine? This behavior, Andronicus, is just like when you bragged that I begged you for the empire.
TITUS O monstrous! What reproachful words are these?	TITUS This is outrageous! Why are you being so insulting?
SATURNINUS 315 But go thy ways. Go give that changing piece To him that flourished for her with his sword. A valiant son-in-law thou shalt enjoy, One fit to bandy with thy lawless sons, To ruffle in the commonwealth of Rome.	SATURNINUS Go away. Go give that silly woman to the man swinging his sword around for her. You’ll enjoy having a brave son-in-law, one fit to brawl with your lawless sons, to disturb the peace in the kingdom of Rome.
TITUS 320 These words are razors to my wounded heart.	TITUS These words are like razors that cut my wounded heart.
SATURNINUS And therefore, lovely Tamora, Queen of Goths, That like the stately Phoebe ’mongst her nymphs Dost overshine the gallant’st dames of Rome, If thou be pleased with this my sudden choice, 325 Behold, I choose thee, Tamora, for my bride, And will create thee Emperess of Rome. Speak, Queen of Goths, dost thou applaud my choice? And here I swear by all the Roman gods, 330 Sith priest and holy water are so near, And tapers burn so bright, and everything In readiness for Hymenaeus stand, I will not resalute the streets of Rome Or climb my palace till from forth this place 335 I lead espoused my bride along with me.	SATURNINUS And therefore, lovely Tamora, Queen of Goths, who, like the glorious Phoebe In Greek mythology, Phoebe was associated with brightness. She identified with the moon, like her Roman counterpart Diana. Phoebe among her nymphs outshines the finest looking women of Rome, if you will agree to my sudden change of heart, I choose you, Tamora, for my bride, and will make you the Empress of Rome. Tell me, Queen of Goths, does this make you happy? And, since priests and holy water are so near, and the candles burn so bright, and everything is ready for Hymenaeus Hymenaeus is the Roman god of marriage. Hymenaeus, I swear by all the Roman gods that I will not go back out onto the streets of Rome or go up to my palace unless I’m married with my bride by my side.
TAMORA And here in sight of heaven to Rome I swear, If Saturnine advance the Queen of Goths, She will a handmaid be to his desires, A loving nurse, a mother to his youth.	TAMORA And here, by heaven, I swear to Rome, if Saturnine marries the Queen of Goths, she will be a servant to his desires, a loving nurse, and a mother to his children.
SATURNINUS 340 Ascend, fair queen, to Pantheon.—Lords, accompany Your noble emperor and his lovely bride, Sent by the heavens for Prince Saturnine, Whose wisdom hath her fortune conquerèd. There shall we consummate our spousal rites.	SATURNINUS Come up, fair queen, and let’s go to the Pantheon.—Lords, accompany your noble emperor and his lovely bride, sent from heaven to Prince Saturnine, who has wisely overcome her misfortune. There we will say our marriage vows.
All but TITUS exit.	All but TITUS exit.
TITUS 345 I am not bid to wait upon this bride. Titus, when wert thou wont to walk alone, Dishonored thus and challengèd of wrongs?	TITUS I am not invited to this wedding. Titus, when was the last time you walked alone, dishonored like this and accused of wrongdoing?
Enter MARCUS and TITUS’ sons LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS.	MARCUS and TITUS’s sons LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS enter.
MARCUS O Titus, see! O, see what thou hast done! In a bad quarrel slain a virtuous son.	MARCUS Oh Titus, look! Oh, look what you have done! You’ve killed a virtuous son for no good reason.
TITUS 350 No, foolish tribune, no; no son of mine, Nor thou, nor these confederates in the deed That hath dishonored all our family. Unworthy brother and unworthy sons!	TITUS No, foolish tribune, no. He’s no son of mine, nor are you, nor are these allies who participated in the event that has dishonored my entire family. Unworthy brother and unworthy sons!
LUCIUS But let us give him burial as becomes, 355 Give Mutius burial with our brethren.	LUCIUS But let us give him a fitting burial. Let Mutius be buried with our brothers.
TITUS Traitors, away! He rests not in this tomb. This monument five hundred years hath stood, Which I have sumptuously reedified. Here none but soldiers and Rome’s servitors 360 Repose in fame, none basely slain in brawls. Bury him where you can. He comes not here.	TITUS Traitors, go away! He will not rest in this tomb. This monument has stood for five hundred years, and I restored it lavishly. Here, only soldiers and Rome’s servants rest in honor, not people killed in lowly brawls. Bury him wherever you want, but he’s not coming in here.
MARCUS My lord, this is impiety in you. My nephew Mutius’ deeds do plead for him. He must be buried with his brethren.	MARCUS My lord, this is unholy of you. My nephew Mutius’s actions were honorable. He must be buried with his brothers.
MARTIUS 365 And shall, or him we will accompany.	MARTIUS And he will be, or we will die trying.
TITUS “And shall”? What villain was it spake that word?	TITUS “And he will be”? What villain said those words?
MARTIUS He that would vouch it in any place but here.	MARTIUS He who would say them in any place less holy than here.
TITUS What, would you bury him in my despite?	TITUS What, you would bury him here without my consent?
MARCUS No, noble Titus, but entreat of thee 370 To pardon Mutius and to bury him.	MARCUS No, noble Titus, but we beg you to pardon Mutius and to bury him.
TITUS Marcus, even thou hast struck upon my crest, And with these boys mine honor thou hast wounded. My foes I do repute you every one. So trouble me no more, but get you gone.	TITUS Marcus, even you have struck me on my helmet, and along with these boys you have wounded my honor. I count every one of you as my enemy. So stop bothering me and go away.
QUINTUS 375 He is not with himself; let us withdraw.	QUINTUS He’s not himself. Let’s leave.
MARTIUS Not I, till Mutius’ bones be burièd.	MARTIUS I won’t, not until Mutius’s body has been buried.
The brother (MARCUS) and the sons (LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS) kneel.	The brother (MARCUS) and the sons (LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS) kneel.
MARCUS Brother, for in that name doth nature plead—	MARCUS Brother, for that name reminds you of our natural ties—
MARTIUS Father, and in that name doth nature speak—	MARTIUS Father, and in that name nature speaks, too—
TITUS Speak thou no more, if all the rest will speed.	TITUS Say no more, if you’re going to say what I think you are.
MARCUS 380 Renownèd Titus, more than half my soul—	MARCUS Renowned Titus, who is more than half my soul—
LUCIUS Dear father, soul and substance of us all—	LUCIUS Dear father, the soul and body of us all—
MARCUS Suffer thy brother Marcus to inter His noble nephew here in virtue’s nest, That died in honor and Lavinia’s cause. 385 Thou art a Roman; be not barbarous. The Greeks upon advice did bury Ajax, That slew himself, and wise Laertes’ son Did graciously plead for his funerals. Let not young Mutius, then, that was thy joy, 390 Be barred his entrance here.	MARCUS Let your brother Marcus place his noble nephew, who died honorably on Lavinia’s behalf, here in this holy ground. You are a Roman; don’t be barbaric. The Greeks were convinced to bury Ajax, who had killed himself, after wise Laertes’s son graciously begged for a funeral In the Trojan War, the Greek general Ajax was angry because Laertes’s son, Ulysses, received the deceased warrior Achilles’s armor instead of him. In a mad rage, he killed a flock of sheep, thinking they were Greek generals. Afterward, ashamed of his actions, he killed himself. Although, at that time, people who committed suicide were not given proper burials, Ulysses persuaded the Greeks to give him one. funeral. So don’t let young Mutius, who you loved, be barred from entering here.
TITUS Rise, Marcus, rise. They rise. The dismall’st day is this that e’er I saw, To be dishonored by my sons in Rome. Well, bury him, and bury me the next.	TITUS Rise, Marcus, rise. They rise. This is the saddest day I’ve ever seen, to be dishonored by my sons in Rome. Well, bury him then, and bury me next.
They put MUTIUS in the tomb.	They put MUTIUS in the tomb.
LUCIUS 395 There lie thy bones, sweet Mutius, with thy friends’, Till we with trophies do adorn thy tomb.	LUCIUS Let your bones lie therewith your friends, sweet Mutius, until we cover your tomb with trophies won in battle.
They all except TITUS kneel and say: No man shed tears for noble Mutius. He lives in fame, that died in virtue’s cause.	Everyone except TITUS kneels and says: Let no man cry for noble Mutius. He lives on in fame for dying for a virtuous cause.
All but MARCUS and TITUS exit.	All but MARCUS and TITUS exit.
MARCUS My lord, to step out of these dreary dumps, 400 How comes it that the subtle Queen of Goths Is of a sudden thus advanced in Rome?	MARCUS My lord, to move on from this mournful mood: How has the clever Queen of Goths suddenly been promoted in Rome?
TITUS I know not, Marcus, but I know it is. Whether by device or no, the heavens can tell. Is she not then beholding to the man 405 That brought her for this high good turn so far? Yes, and will nobly him remunerate.	TITUS I don’t know, Marcus, but I know it has happened. Whether it’s a scheme or not, only the heavens can tell. So, isn’t she indebted to the man who rose her up for such high honors? Yes, and she will pay him generously This sentence may have been inserted after Shakespeare wrote this play. generously.
Flourish. Enter the Emperor SATURNINUS, TAMORA and her two sons, with AARON the Moor, Drums and Trumpets, at one door. Enter at the other door BASSANINUS and LAVINIA, with LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS, and others.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. The Emperor SATURNINUS, TAMORA and her two sons, with AARON the Moor, Drums and Trumpets enter at one door. BASSANINUS and LAVINIA, with LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS, and others enter at the other door.
SATURNINUS So, Bassianus, you have played your prize. God give you joy, sir, of your gallant bride.	SATURNINUS So, Bassianus, you have won your fight. May you be blessed with joy, sir, in your noble bride.
BASSIANUS And you of yours, my lord. I say no more, 410 Nor wish no less, and so I take my leave.	BASSIANUS And the same to you, my lord. I’ll say no more, and don’t wish you any less, so I’ll leave now.
SATURNINUS Traitor, if Rome have law or we have power, Thou and thy faction shall repent this rape.	SATURNINUS Traitor, if Rome has laws or I have power, you and your brothers will regret this rape.
BASSIANUS “Rape” call you it, my lord, to seize my own, My true betrothèd love and now my wife? 415 But let the laws of Rome determine all. Meanwhile am I possessed of that is mine.	BASSIANUS You call it “rape,” my lord, to take my own, my true fiancée and love, who is now my wife? Let the laws of Rome decide. In the meantime, I have what is mine.
SATURNINUS ’Tis good, sir, you are very short with us. But if we live, we’ll be as sharp with you.	SATURNINUS Very well, sir, you are very dismissive. And as long as I live, I’ll be just as insulting to you.
BASSIANUS My lord, what I have done, as best I may, 420 Answer I must, and shall do with my life. Only thus much I give your Grace to know: By all the duties that I owe to Rome, This noble gentleman, Lord Titus here, Is in opinion and in honor wronged, 425 That in the rescue of Lavinia With his own hand did slay his youngest son, In zeal to you, and highly moved to wrath To be controlled in that he frankly gave. Receive him then to favor, Saturnine, 430 That hath expressed himself in all his deeds A father and a friend to thee and Rome.	BASSIANUS My lord, I will take responsibility for what I have done as best as I can and with my life if necessary. But I would like your Grace to know: I swear by my duties to Rome that this noble gentleman, Lord Titus here, has, in his reputation and honor, been wrongfully accused, for with his own hands he killed his youngest son trying to rescue Lavinia, out of loyalty to you, and because he was extremely angry to be thwarted in what he gave you unconditionally. So give him your goodwill, Saturnine. He has shown himself in all his actions to be a father and a friend to you and Rome.
TITUS Prince Bassianus, leave to plead my deeds. ’Tis thou, and those, that have dishonored me. Rome and the righteous heavens be my judge 435 How I have loved and honored Saturnine.	TITUS Prince Bassianus, let me speak for myself. It’s you and these others who have dishonored me. Rome and the righteous heavens can judge how I have loved and honored Saturnine.
He kneels.	He kneels.
TAMORA to SATURNINUS My worthy lord, if ever Tamora Were gracious in those princely eyes of thine, Then hear me speak indifferently for all, And at my suit, sweet, pardon what is past.	TAMORA to SATURNINUS My worthy lord, if you love Tamora , then let me speak as a neutral party and do as I ask, my sweet, to forgive what is in the past.
SATURNINUS 440 What, madam, be dishonored openly, And basely put it up without revenge?	SATURNINUS What, madam? Be openly dishonored and allow it without getting revenge?
TAMORA Not so, my lord; the gods of Rome forfend I should be author to dishonor you. But on mine honor dare I undertake 445 For good Lord Titus’ innocence in all, Whose fury not dissembled speaks his griefs. Then at my suit look graciously on him. Lose not so noble a friend on vain suppose, Nor with sour looks afflict his gentle heart. 450 Aside to Saturninus. My lord, be ruled by me; be won at last. Dissemble all your griefs and discontents. You are but newly planted in your throne. Lest, then, the people, and patricians too, 455 Upon a just survey take Titus’ part And so supplant you for ingratitude, Which Rome reputes to be a heinous sin. Yield at entreats, and then let me alone. I’ll find a day to massacre them all 460 And raze their faction and their family, The cruel father and his traitorous sons, To whom I sued for my dear son’s life, And make them know what ’tis to let a queen Kneel in the streets and beg for grace in vain. 465 Aloud. Come, come, sweet emperor.—Come, Andronicus.— Take up this good old man, and cheer the heart That dies in tempest of thy angry frown.	TAMORA No, my lord. May the gods of Rome never allow me to be the cause of your dishonor. But on my honor I’m prepared to vouch for good Lord Titus’s complete innocence. His genuine anger shows his real grief. So do what I ask and be kind to him. Don’t lose such a noble friend out of suspicion or hurt his kind heart with dirty looks. Aside to Saturninus. My lord, listen to me, and let me persuade you. Let go of all your grief and anger—you have only just gotten the throne—in case the common people and the noblemen, when they think about it, also take Titus’s side and overthrow you for ingratitude, which Rome regards as a hideous sin. Give in to my requests, and then leave it to me. I’ll find a day to massacre them all, destroy their group and their family—the cruel father and his traitorous sons, whom I begged for my dear son’s life—and I will show them what happens to those who let a queen kneel in the streets and beg for mercy in vain. Aloud. Come, come, sweet emperor.—Come, Andronicus.—Get this man up and cheer up his heart, which ails in the storm of your angry frown.
SATURNINUS Rise, Titus, rise. My empress hath prevailed.	SATURNINUS Rise, Titus, rise. My empress has convinced me.
TITUS rising 470 I thank your Majesty and her, my lord. These words, these looks, infuse new life in me.	TITUS rising My lord, I thank both your Majesty and her. These words and expressions of forgiveness breathe new life into me.
TAMORA Titus, I am incorporate in Rome, A Roman now adopted happily, And must advise the Emperor for his good. 475 This day all quarrels die, Andronicus.— And let it be mine honor, good my lord, That I have reconciled your friends and you.— For you, Prince Bassianus, I have passed My word and promise to the Emperor 480 That you will be more mild and tractable.— And fear not, lords—and you, Lavinia. By my advice, all humbled on your knees, You shall ask pardon of his Majesty.	TAMORA Titus, I have been formally admitted into Rome, now a happy naturalized Roman, and must advise the Emperor what’s best. On this day, let all quarrels die, Andronicus.—And it was my honor, my good lord, to have reconciled your friends and you.—For you, Prince Bassianus, I have given my word and promise to the Emperor that you will be more restrained and obedient in the future. And don’t be afraid, lords—nor you, Lavinia. Take my advice: kneel humbly and ask his Majesty for forgiveness.
MARCUS, LAVINIA, LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS kneel.	MARCUS, LAVINIA, LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS kneel.
LUCIUS We do, and vow to heaven and to his Highness 485 That what we did was mildly as we might, Tend’ring our sister’s honor and our own.	LUCIUS We do, and promise heaven and his Highness that we behaved as calmly as we could when our sister’s honor and our own was at stake.
MARCUS That on mine honor here do I protest.	MARCUS On my honor, I promise that too.
SATURNINUS Away, and talk not; trouble us no more.	SATURNINUS Go away and stop talking; don’t bother us anymore.
TAMORA Nay, nay, sweet emperor, we must all be friends. 490 The tribune and his nephews kneel for grace. I will not be denied. Sweetheart, look back.	TAMORA No, no, sweet emperor, we must all be friends. The tribune and his nephews kneel for forgiveness. I won’t take no for an answer. Sweetheart, turn around.
SATURNINUS Marcus, for thy sake, and thy brother’s here, And at my lovely Tamora’s entreats, I do remit these young men’s heinous faults. 495 Stand up. They rise. Lavinia, though you left me like a churl, I found a friend, and sure as death I swore I would not part a bachelor from the priest. Come, if the Emperor’s court can feast two brides, 500 You are my guest, Lavinia, and your friends.— This day shall be a love-day, Tamora.	SATURNINUS Marcus, for your sake, and for the sake of your brother here, and at the pleading of my lovely Tamora, I forgive these young men’s heinous crimes. Stand up. They rise. Lavinia, although you callously left me, I found another, and as sure as death I swore I would not walk away from the priest a single man. Come, if the Emperor’s court can celebrate two brides, you can be my guest, Lavinia, as well as your friends.—This day will be a day full of love, Tamora.
TITUS Tomorrow, an it please your Majesty To hunt the panther and the hart with me, With horn and hound we’ll give your Grace bonjour.	TITUS Tomorrow, your Majesty, if you’d like, come hunt panthers and deer with me, and we will welcome your Grace with horns and dogs.
SATURNINUS 505 Be it so, Titus, and gramercy too.	SATURNINUS That sounds good, Titus, and thank you.
Sound trumpets. All but AARON exit.	Trumpets sound. All but AARON exit.

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Original Text	Modern Text
Flourish. Enter the TRIBUNES (including MARCUS ANDRONICUS) and SENATORS aloft. And then enter, below, SATURNINUS and his followers at one door, and BASSIANUS and his followers at another door, with other Romans, Drums, and Trumpets.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. The TRIBUNES (including MARCUS ANDRONICUS) and SENATORS enter on the upper stage, the setting that represents the Capitol/Senate House. And then, below, SATURNINUS and his followers enter at one door, and BASSIANUS and his followers enter at another door, with other Romans, Drums, and Trumpets.
SATURNINUS Noble patricians, patrons of my right, Defend the justice of my cause with arms. And countrymen, my loving followers, Plead my successive title with your swords. 5 I am his firstborn son that was the last That wore the imperial diadem of Rome. Then let my father’s honors live in me, Nor wrong mine age with this indignity.	SATURNINUS Noble patricians Patricians were members of elite Roman families from which leading figures (senators, counsels, etc.) were selected. Noble patricians, supporters of my right to rule, defend my just cause with weapons. And countrymen, my loving followers, fight for my inheritance with your swords. I am the firstborn son of the last King of Rome. So, my father’s honors should be passed down to me. Don’t disrespect my inheritance.
BASSIANUS Romans, friends, followers, favorers of my right, 10 If ever Bassianus, Caesar’s son, Were gracious in the eyes of royal Rome, Keep, then, this passage to the Capitol, And suffer not dishonor to approach The imperial seat, to virtue consecrate, 15 To justice, continence, and nobility; But let desert in pure election shine, And, Romans, fight for freedom in your choice.	BASSIANUS Romans, friends, followers, supporters of my right to rule, if Bassianus, Caesar’s son Roman emperors were often called “Caesar” in honor of both Julius and Augustus Caesar, who ruled during the early empire. Bassianus is the second son of the late emperor. Caesar’s son, was ever worthy in the eyes of royal Rome, then block this man’s path to the Capitol, and don’t allow dishonor to approach the imperial throne, which is dedicated to virtue, justice, moderation, and nobility. Elect the man who deserves the throne, and, Romans, fight for your right to choose.
MARCUS (aloft, stepping forward and holding up the crown) Princes that strive by factions and by friends Ambitiously for rule and empery, 20 Know that the people of Rome, for whom we stand A special party, have by common voice, In election for the Roman empery, Chosen Andronicus, surnamèd Pius For many good and great deserts to Rome. 25 A nobler man, a braver warrior, Lives not this day within the city walls. He by the Senate is accited home From weary wars against the barbarous Goths, That with his sons, a terror to our foes, 30 Hath yoked a nation strong, trained up in arms. Ten years are spent since first he undertook This cause of Rome, and chastisèd with arms Our enemies’ pride. Five times he hath returned Bleeding to Rome, bearing his valiant sons 35 In coffins from the field. And now at last, laden with honor’s spoils, Returns the good Andronicus to Rome, Renownèd Titus flourishing in arms. Let us entreat, by honor of his name 40 Whom worthily you would have now succeed, And in the Capitol and Senate’s right, Whom you pretend to honor and adore, That you withdraw you and abate your strength, Dismiss your followers and, as suitors should, 45 Plead your deserts in peace and humbleness.	MARCUS (on the upper stage, stepping forward and holding up the crown) You princes who are striving to rule as emperor: You need to know that the Roman people, whom I represent, have voted in the election for the Roman emperor, and they have elected Andronicus, a man who has done so many great things for Rome he was given the name “Pius.” There is no nobler man or braver warrior in the city. He has been summoned home by the Senate from the exhausting wars against the barbaric Goths "Goths" were Germanic people who raided and otherwise harassed the Roman Empire for centuries. Goths , who, along with his sons, have terrorized our enemies and conquered a fierce warrior nation. It’s been ten years since he first took up the cause of Rome and punished our enemies’ pride in combat. He’s come back wounded to Rome five times, carrying his brave sons in coffins from the battlefield. And now, at last, overloaded with honors, the good Andronicus returns to Rome, the famous Titus at the height of his power. Out of respect for the emperor, whom you now wish to have a worthy successor, and for the rights of the Capitol and Senate, whom you claim to honor and worship, we urge you to listen to this advice: Withdraw and pull back your forces, dismiss your followers, and make your case peacefully and humbly, as petitioners should.
SATURNINUS How fair the tribune speaks to calm my thoughts!	SATURNINUS This tribune A tribune is an officer who has been elected to protect the interests and rights of the people. tribune speaks well and puts me at ease.
BASSIANUS Marcus Andronicus, so I do affy In thy uprightness and integrity, And so I love and honor thee and thine, 50 Thy noble brother Titus and his sons, And her to whom my thoughts are humbled all, Gracious Lavinia, Rome’s rich ornament, That I will here dismiss my loving friends, And to my fortunes and the people’s favor 55 Commit my cause in balance to be weighed.	BASSIANUS Marcus Andronicus, I trust your honesty and integrity, and I love and honor you and your family, your noble brother, Titus, his sons, and gracious Lavinia, Rome’s rich ornament, whom I wholly adore. Therefore, I will dismiss my loving friends and let the people decide my fate.
BASSIANUS’ SOLDIERS exit.	BASSIANUS’S SOLDIERS exit.
SATURNINUS Friends that have been thus forward in my right, I thank you all and here dismiss you all, And to the love and favor of my country Commit myself, my person, and the cause. SATURNINUS’ SOLDIERS exit. 60 Rome, be as just and gracious unto me As I am confident and kind to thee. Open the gates and let me in.	SATURNINUS Friends who have supported my claim thus far, I thank you all and dismiss you. I will rely on the love and respect of my country to judge my cause. SATURNINUS’S SOLDIERS exit. Rome, be as fair and gracious to me as I am trusting and kind to you. Open the gates and let me in.
BASSIANUS Tribunes, and me, a poor competitor.	BASSIANUS And me, tribunes, a poor fellow candidate.
Flourish. They exit to go up into the Senate House. The TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit from the upper stage. Enter a CAPTAIN.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. They exit to go up into the Senate House. The TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit from the upper stage. A CAPTAIN enters.
CAPTAIN Romans, make way! The good Andronicus, 65 Patron of virtue, Rome’s best champion, Successful in the battles that he fights, With honor and with fortune is returned From where he circumscribèd with his sword And brought to yoke the enemies of Rome.	CAPTAIN Romans, make way! The good Andronicus, model of virtue, Rome’s best champion, victorious in the battles he fights, returns with honor and good fortune from where he defeated the enemies of Rome and subdued them with his sword.
Sound drums and trumpets, and then enter two of TITUS’ sons (LUCIUS and MUTIUS) and then two men bearing a coffin covered with black, then two other sons (MARTIUS and QUINTUS), then TITUS ANDRONICUS, and then TAMORA the Queen of Goths and her sons ALARBUS, CHIRON and DEMETRIUS, with AARON the Moor, and others as many as can be, then set down the coffin, and TITUS speaks.	Drums and trumpets play, and then two of TITUS’s sons (LUCIUS and MUTIUS) enter, followed by two men bearing a coffin covered with black, followed by two other sons (MARTIUS and QUINTUS), followed by TITUS ANDRONICUS, and then TAMORA the Queen of Goths and her sons ALARBUS, CHIRON, and DEMETRIUS, with AARON the Moor, and a large group of others. Men set down the coffin, and TITUS speaks.
TITUS 70 Hail Rome, victorious in thy mourning weeds! Lo, as the bark that hath discharged his fraught Returns with precious lading to the bay From whence at first she weighed her anchorage, Cometh Andronicus, bound with laurel boughs, 75 To resalute his country with his tears, Tears of true joy for his return to Rome. Thou great defender of this Capitol, Stand gracious to the rites that we intend. Romans, of five-and-twenty valiant sons, 80 Half of the number that King Priam had, Behold the poor remains alive and dead. These that survive let Rome reward with love; These that I bring unto their latest home, With burial amongst their ancestors. 85 Here Goths have given me leave to sheathe my sword. Titus, unkind and careless of thine own, Why suffer’st thou thy sons unburied yet To hover on the dreadful shore of Styx? Make way to lay them by their brethren. They open the tomb. 90 There greet in silence, as the dead are wont, And sleep in peace, slain in your country’s wars. O sacred receptacle of my joys, Sweet cell of virtue and nobility, How many sons hast thou of mine in store 95 That thou wilt never render to me more?	TITUS Greetings, Rome, victorious in your mourning clothes! See, like a ship that has unloaded its freight returns with precious cargo to the bay she departed from, here comes Andronicus, crowned with laurels of victory, to re-salute his country with tears, tears of true joy for his return to Rome. Great defender of this Capitol, graciously accept the ceremonies we’re planning. Romans, you can see here the outcome, both alive and dead, of twenty-five brave sons, half the number that King Priam King Priam, the King of Troy during the Trojan War, supposedly had fifty sons. King Priam had. Let Rome reward the survivors with love. Give these others, which I have brought to their last home, a burial among their ancestors. The Goths have allowed me to put my sword away. Titus, unkind and careless to your own family, why have you let your unburied sons wait on the dreadful shores of the Styx In Greek mythology, the souls of the dead had to pass over Styx, the main river of Hades, to get to the afterworld. Styx? Make way so I can lay them with their brothers. They open the tomb. There you can greet each other in silence, as the dead do, and sleep in peace, you who were killed in your country’s wars. Oh, sacred tomb that holds my joy, that sweetly stores virtue and nobility, how many of my sons are in there that you will never give back?
LUCIUS Give us the proudest prisoner of the Goths, That we may hew his limbs and on a pile, Ad manes fratrum, sacrifice his flesh Before this earthy prison of their bones, 100 That so the shadows be not unappeased, Nor we disturbed with prodigies on Earth.	LUCIUS Give us the noblest prisoner of the Goths so we can hack off his limbs and sacrifice his body on a pyre to the ghosts of the brothers who have died Ad manes fratrum is Latin for “to the ghosts of the brothers.” died. Let’s do it here, in front of this earthly container of their bones, so that their ghosts will be at rest, and we won’t be haunted by them on Earth.
TITUS I give him you, the noblest that survives, The eldest son of this distressèd queen.	TITUS I give you this man, the noblest of the survivors, the oldest son of this distraught queen.
TAMORA Stay, Roman brethren!—Gracious conqueror, 105 Victorious Titus, rue the tears I shed, A mother’s tears in passion for her son. And if thy sons were ever dear to thee, O think my son to be as dear to me. Sufficeth not that we are brought to Rome 110 To beautify thy triumphs and return Captive to thee and to thy Roman yoke, But must my sons be slaughtered in the streets For valiant doings in their country’s cause? O, if to fight for king and commonweal 115 Were piety in thine, it is in these! She kneels. Andronicus, stain not thy tomb with blood. Wilt thou draw near the nature of the gods? Draw near them then in being merciful. Sweet mercy is nobility’s true badge. 120 Thrice-noble Titus, spare my first-born son.	TAMORA Stop, Roman brothers!—Gracious conqueror, victorious Titus, pity the tears I shed, a mother’s emotional tears for her son. If you ever loved your sons, know that I love my son just as much. Isn’t it enough that we have been brought to Rome to show off your triumph and be enslaved to you and Rome? Must my sons be slaughtered in the streets for their brave actions on behalf of their country? Oh, if you consider it holy to fight for your king and country, then it is for my sons, too! She kneels. Andronicus, don’t stain your tomb with blood. Do you want to be like the gods-? Then be as merciful as they are. Sweet mercy is the truest sign of nobility. Supremely noble Titus, spare my first-born son.
TITUS Patient yourself, madam, and pardon me. These are their brethren whom your Goths beheld Alive and dead, and for their brethren slain Religiously they ask a sacrifice. 125 To this your son is marked, and die he must, T’ appease their groaning shadows that are gone.	TITUS Calm down, madam, and I’m sorry. These are the brothers of those you saw alive and dead, and they are asking for a holy sacrifice for their slain brothers. Your son has been chosen for this, so he must die to satisfy the groaning ghosts of the dead.
LUCIUS Away with him, and make a fire straight, And with our swords upon a pile of wood Let’s hew his limbs till they be clean consumed.	LUCIUS Take him away, and make a fire at once. Let’s hack his limbs with our swords on the pile of wood until he’s consumed by flames.
Exit TITUS’ sons with ALARBUS.	TITUS ’s sons exit with ALARBUS.
TAMORA (rising and speaking aside to her sons) 130 O cruel, irreligious piety!	TAMORA (rising and speaking aside to her sons) Oh cruel, unholy piety!
CHIRON (aside to TAMORA and DEMETRIUS) Was never Scythia half so barbarous!	CHIRON (aside to TAMORA and DEMETRIUS) The Scythians The Scythians were nomadic people who were feared and admired for their prowess in war. Scythians were never half as barbaric!
DEMETRIUS (aside to TAMORA and CHIRON) Oppose not Scythia to ambitious Rome! Alarbus goes to rest and we survive To tremble under Titus’ threat’ning look. 135 Then, madam, stand resolved, but hope withal The selfsame gods that armed the Queen of Troy With opportunity of sharp revenge Upon the Thracian tyrant in his tent May favor Tamora the Queen of Goths 140 (When Goths were Goths, and Tamora was queen) To quit the bloody wrongs upon her foes.	DEMETRIUS (aside to TAMORA and CHIRON) Scythians don’t compare to ambitious Romans! Alarbus is dead, and we live only to tremble under Titus’s threatening rule. So, madam, just let it go. But have hope that the same gods who enabled the Queen of Troy to take revenge on the Thracian tyrant Hecuba, King Priam's wife and the vanquished queen of Troy, took revenge on Polymestor, the Greek who murdered her youngest son, by stabbing out his eyes and later murdered his two sons. tyrant in his tent will also enable Tamora the Queen of the Goths—when the Goths were a people and Tamora was their queen—to take revenge on her enemies.
Enter the sons of ANDRONICUS again with bloody swords.	The sons of ANDRONICUS enter again with bloody swords.
LUCIUS See, lord and father, how we have performed Our Roman rites. Alarbus’ limbs are lopped, And entrails feed the sacrificing fire, 145 Whose smoke like incense doth perfume the sky. Remaineth naught but to inter our brethren, And with loud larums welcome them to Rome.	LUCIUS See, lord and father, how we have made our Roman sacrifice. Alarbus’s limbs are cut off and his guts feed the fire, as the smoke perfumes the sky like incense. There’s nothing left to do but to bury our brothers and, with great trumpet calls, welcome them to Rome.
TITUS Let it be so. And let Andronicus Make this his latest farewell to their souls. Sound trumpets, and lay the coffin in the tomb. 150 In peace and honor rest you here, my sons, Rome’s readiest champions, repose you here in rest, Secure from worldly chances and mishaps. Here lurks no treason, here no envy swells, Here grow no damnèd drugs; here are no storms, 155 No noise, but silence and eternal sleep. In peace and honor rest you here, my sons.	TITUS Get on with it, then. And let Andronicus say his last goodbye to their souls. Trumpets sound as the coffin is laid in the tomb. Rest in peace and honor here, my sons. Rome’s most expert champions, lie here and rest, safe from earthly misfortune and accidents. No treason lurks here, no envy arises here, no poisonous plants grow here, no storms are here, no noise, but silence and eternal sleep. Rest here in peace and honor, my sons.
Enter LAVINIA.	LAVINIA enters.
LAVINIA In peace and honor live Lord Titus long; My noble lord and father, live in fame. She kneels. Lo, at this tomb my tributary tears 160 I render for my brethren’s obsequies, And at thy feet I kneel, with tears of joy Shed on this earth for thy return to Rome. O bless me here with thy victorious hand, Whose fortunes Rome’s best citizens applaud.	LAVINIA May Lord Titus have a long life in peace and honor. My noble lord and father, live on through your fame. She kneels. See, at this tomb my tearspay tribute to my brother’s funeral rites, and I kneel at your feet with tears of joy falling on this earth for your return to Rome. Oh bless me with your victorious hand, which is applauded by Rome’s greatest citizens.
TITUS 165 Kind Rome, that hast thus lovingly reserved The cordial of mine age to glad my heart!— Lavinia, live, outlive thy father’s days And fame’s eternal date, for virtue’s praise.	TITUS Kind Rome, you have loved and nourished me in my old age, which strengthens my heart!—Lavinia, live, outlive your father, and may you be remembered for your virtue until the end of time.
LAVINIA rises.	LAVINIA rises.
Enter MARCUS ANDRONICUS, carrying a white robe.	MARCUS ANDRONICUS enters carrying a white robe.
Enter aloft SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, TRIBUNES, SENATORS, and GUARDS.	SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, TRIBUNES, SENATORS, and GUARDS enter on the upper stage.
MARCUS Long live Lord Titus, my belovèd brother, 170 Gracious triumpher in the eyes of Rome.	MARCUS Long live Lord Titus, my beloved brother, gracious victor in the eyes of Rome.
TITUS Thanks, gentle tribune, noble brother Marcus.	TITUS Thanks, kind tribune, noble brother Marcus.
MARCUS And welcome, nephews, from successful wars— You that survive, and you that sleep in fame. Fair lords, your fortunes are alike in all, 175 That in your country’s service drew your swords; But safer triumph is this funeral pomp, That hath aspired to Solon’s happiness, And triumphs over chance in honor’s bed.— Titus Andronicus, the people of Rome, 180 Whose friend in justice thou hast ever been, Send thee by me, their tribune and their trust, This palliament of white and spotless hue, And name thee in election for the empire With these our late deceasèd emperor’s sons. 185 Be candidatus, then, and put it on And help to set a head on headless Rome.	MARCUS And welcome, nephews, from successful wars—both you who survived and you who died in glory. Fair lords, you all took the same path, serving your country by drawing your swords. But their death is a greater triumph than surviving because they have found the happiness Solon Solon was an Ancient Greek philosopher who proclaimed that no man is truly happy until they are dead. Solon spoke about, something better than short-lived honor.—Titus Andronicus, the people of Rome, to whom you have always been a fair friend, have sent you, through me, their tribune and their representative, this spotless and pure white robe, and ask you to run for emperor alongside the recently-deceased emperor’s sons. So be a candidate, then, put this on, and help put a head on headless Rome.
TITUS A better head her glorious body fits Than his that shakes for age and feebleness. To TRIBUNES and SENATORS aloft. What, should I don 190 this robe and trouble you? Be chosen with proclamations today, Tomorrow yield up rule, resign my life, And set abroad new business for you all? Rome, I have been thy soldier forty years, 195 And led my country’s strength successfully, And buried one and twenty valiant sons, Knighted in field, slain manfully in arms, In right and service of their noble country. Give me a staff of honor for mine age, 200 But not a scepter to control the world. Upright he held it, lords, that held it last.	TITUS Her glorious body deserves a better head than mine, which shakes with age and weakness. To the TRIBUNES AND SENATORS on the upper stage. Why should I put on this robe and make you go through the trouble? If you elect me emperor today, tomorrow I could die, giving up my position, and then you’d have to go through the whole business all over again? Rome, I have been your soldier for forty years, and led my country’s forces successfully. I have buried twenty-one brave men, knighted in battle, killed bravely in warfare, in the justified service of their noble country. Give me a staff of honor for my old age, but not a scepter to control the whole world. The last one who held it, lords, was stronger than I am.
MARCUS Titus, thou shalt obtain and ask the empery.	MARCUS Titus, you will have emperorship if you ask for it.
SATURNINUS Proud and ambitious tribune, canst thou tell?	SATURNINUS Arrogant and ambitious tribune, how do you know that?
TITUS Patience, Prince Saturninus.	TITUS Calm down, Prince Saturninus.
SATURNINUS 205 Romans, do me right. Patricians, draw your swords and sheathe them not Till Saturninus be Rome’s emperor.— Andronicus, would thou were shipped to hell Rather than rob me of the people’s hearts.	SATURNINUS Romans, do right by me. Patricians, draw your swords and do not sheathe them until Saturninus is Rome’s emperor.—Andronicus, I’d rather you get sent to hell than steal the people’s hearts from me.
LUCIUS 210 Proud Saturnine, interrupter of the good That noble-minded Titus means to thee.	LUCIUS Arrogant Saturnine, you are preventing noble-minded Titus from doing you a favor.
TITUS Content thee, prince. I will restore to thee The people’s hearts and wean them from themselves.	TITUS Don’t worry, prince. I will return the people’s hearts to you and convince them to endorse you.
BASSIANUS Andronicus, I do not flatter thee, 215 But honor thee, and will do till I die. My faction if thou strengthen with thy friends, I will most thankful be, and thanks, to men Of noble minds, is honorable meed.	BASSIANUS Andronicus, I’m not saying this to flatter you, but I respect you, and I will until the day I die. If your supporters back me, I will be very grateful, and gratitude, to noble men, is an honorable reward.
TITUS People of Rome, and people’s tribunes here, 220 I ask your voices and your suffrages. Will you bestow them friendly on Andronicus?	TITUS People of Rome, and their representatives here, I ask for your endorsement and your vote. Would you please give them to Andronicus?
TRIBUNES To gratify the good Andronicus And gratulate his safe return to Rome, The people will accept whom he admits.	TRIBUNES To please the good Andronicus, and celebrate his safe return to Rome, the people will accept whomever he chooses.
TITUS 225 Tribunes, I thank you, and this suit I make: That you create our emperor’s eldest son, Lord Saturnine, whose virtues will, I hope, Reflect on Rome as Titan’s rays on Earth And ripen justice in this commonweal. 230 Then, if you will elect by my advice, Crown him and say “Long live our emperor.”	TITUS Tribunes, thank you, and I ask you this: that you select our emperor’s oldest son, Lord Saturnine, whose virtues will, I hope, shine down on Rome like Titan’s rays shine down upon the earth In Greek mythology, Titan is a child of Uranus, who personifies heaven. earth and ripen justice in this country. So, if you will take my advice, crown him and say, “Long live our emperor.”
MARCUS With voices and applause of every sort, Patricians and plebeians, we create Lord Saturninus Rome’s great emperor, 235 And say “Long live our Emperor Saturnine.”	MARCUS With all of our votes and approval, the politicians’ and the general public’s, we elect Lord Saturninus as Rome’s great emperor, and say “Long live our Emperor Saturnine.”
A long flourish till SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, and GUARDS come down.	A long flourish of trumpets is heard until SATURNINUS, BASSIANUS, and GUARDS come downstage.
SATURNINUS Titus Andronicus, for thy favors done To us in our election this day, I give thee thanks in part of thy deserts, And will with deeds requite thy gentleness. 240 And for an onset, Titus, to advance Thy name and honorable family, Lavinia will I make my empress, Rome’s royal mistress, mistress of my heart, And in the sacred Pantheon her espouse. 245 Tell me, Andronicus, doth this motion please thee?	SATURNINUS Titus Andronicus, thank you for the favors you have done for me in my election today. I will repay the rest of your kindness in actions. And to begin, Titus, to promote your name and honorable family, I will make Lavinia my empress, Rome’s royal mistress, mistress of my heart, and in the sacred Pantheon The Pantheon is a temple in Rome that is dedicated to all the gods. Pantheon become her spouse. Tell me, Andronicus, does this make you happy?
TITUS It doth, my worthy lord, and in this match I hold me highly honored of your Grace; And here in sight of Rome to Saturnine, King and commander of our commonweal, 250 The wide world’s emperor, do I consecrate My sword, my chariot, and my prisoners, Presents well worthy Rome’s imperious lord. Receive them, then, the tribute that I owe, Mine honor’s ensigns humbled at thy feet.	TITUS It does, my lord, and I take this marriage as a high honor from your Grace. Here, with all of Rome as witness, I give Saturnine, king and commander of our nation, the emperor of this wide world, my sword, my chariot, and my prisoners, presents that are worthy of Rome’s regal lord. Take them, then, as the payment I owe you, tokens of my honor humbly laid at your feet.
SATURNINUS 255 Thanks, noble Titus, father of my life. How proud I am of thee and of thy gifts Rome shall record.—And when I do forget The least of these unspeakable deserts, Romans, forget your fealty to me.	SATURNINUS Thanks, noble Titus, wise and guiding light. Rome will know how proud I am of you and your gifts. And should I forget even the least of them, you Romans can forget your loyalty to me.
TITUS to TAMORA 260 Now, madam, are you prisoner to an emperor, To him that for your honor and your state Will use you nobly, and your followers.	TITUS to TAMORA Now, madam, you are the prisoner of an emperor. Because of your honor and your rank, he’ll treat you and your followers well.
SATURNINUS aside A goodly lady, trust me, of the hue That I would choose, were I to choose anew.— 265 Clear up, fair queen, that cloudy countenance. Though chance of war hath wrought this change of cheer, Thou com’st not to be made a scorn in Rome. Princely shall be thy usage every way. 270 Rest on my word, and let not discontent Daunt all your hopes. Madam, he comforts you Can make you greater than the Queen of Goths.— Lavinia, you are not displeased with this?	SATURNINUS aside A fine lady, trust me, who’s of the sort I would choose, if I had to choose again.—Clear the clouds from your face, fair queen. Although the fortunes of war have changed your cheerful mood, you will not be treated badly in Rome. You will be treated like a queen in every way. Trust me, and don’t lose hope. Madam, I can offer you something even greater than being the Queen of Goths. Lavinia, you aren’t unhappy about this?
LAVINIA Not I, my lord, sith true nobility 275 Warrants these words in princely courtesy.	LAVINIA I’m not unhappy, my lord. As a person of nobility, youshould extend these princely courtesies to her.
SATURNINUS Thanks, sweet Lavinia.—Romans, let us go. Ransomless here we set our prisoners free. Proclaim our honors, lords, with trump and drum.	SATURNINUS Thanks, sweet Lavinia.—Romans, let us go. Set the prisoners free without a ransom. Let’s celebrate our honor, lords, with the music of trumpets and drums.
Flourish. SATURNINUS and his GUARDS exit, with Drums and Trumpets. TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit aloft.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. SATURNINUS and his GUARDS exit as drums and trumpets play. TRIBUNES and SENATORS exit the upper stage.
BASSIANUS Lord Titus, by your leave, this maid is mine.	BASSIANUS Lord Titus, with all due respect, this girl is mine.
TITUS 280 How, sir? Are you in earnest then, my lord?	TITUS What do you mean, sir? Are you being serious, my lord?
BASSIANUS Ay, noble Titus, and resolved withal To do myself this reason and this right.	BASSIANUS Yes, noble Titus, and I’m determined to fight for her.
BASSIANUS takes LAVINIA by the arm.	BASSIANUS takes LAVINIA by the arm.
MARCUS Suum cuique is our Roman justice. This prince in justice seizeth but his own.	MARCUS “To each his own” is Roman law. The prince is only taking what is rightfully his.
LUCIUS 285 And that he will and shall, if Lucius live!	LUCIUS And he will have it, so long as I am alive!
TITUS Traitors, avaunt! Where is the Emperor’s guard? Enter SATURNINUS and his GUARDS. Treason, my lord. Lavinia is surprised.	TITUS Traitors, get out of here! Where is the Emperor’s guard? SATURNINUS and his GUARDS enter. There is treason, my lord. Lavinia has been ambushed.
SATURNINUS Surprised? By whom?	SATURNINUS Ambushed? By whom?
BASSIANUS By him that justly may 290 Bear his betrothed from all the world away.	BASSIANUS By he who has every right to carry his fiancée away from the rest of the world.
MUTIUS Brothers, help to convey her hence away, And with my sword I’ll keep this door safe.	MUTIUS Brothers, help take her away from here, and I’ll guard this door with my sword.
BASSIANUS, LAVINIA, MARCUS, LUCIUS, QUINTUS, and MARTIUS exit.	BASSIANUS, LAVINIA, MARCUS, LUCIUS, QUINTUS, and MARTIUS exit.
TITUS to SATURNINUS Follow, my lord, and I’ll soon bring her back.	TITUS to SATURNINUS Let’s follow, my lord, and I’ll bring her back soon.
SATURNINUS, TAMORA, DEMETRIUS, CHIRON, AARON, and GUARDS exit.	SATURNINUS, TAMORA, DEMETRIUS, CHIRON, AARON, and GUARDS exit.
MUTIUS 295 My lord, you pass not here.	MUTIUS My lord, you can’t pass through here.
TITUS What, villain boy, Barr’st me my way in Rome?	TITUS What, villain boy, you’re standing in my way in Rome?
He stabs MUTIUS.	He stabs MUTIUS.
MUTIUS Help, Lucius, help!	MUTIUS Help, Lucius, help!
MUTIUS dies.	MUTIUS dies.
Enter LUCIUS.	LUCIUS enters.
LUCIUS My lord, you are unjust, and more than so! In wrongful quarrel you have slain your son.	LUCIUS My lord, you are unjust and beyond unjust! You’ve killed your own son in an wicked fight.
TITUS 300 Nor thou nor he are any sons of mine. My sons would never so dishonor me. Traitor, restore Lavinia to the Emperor.	TITUS Neither of you is any son of mine. My sons would never dishonor me like that. Traitor, give Lavinia back to the Emperor.
Enter aloft the Emperor SATURNINUS with TAMORA and her two sons and AARON the Moor.	The Emperor SATURNINUS enters the upper stage, along with TAMORA and her two sons and AARON the Moor.
LUCIUS Dead if you will, but not to be his wife That is another’s lawful promised love.	LUCIUS I’ll give her to you dead, if you want, but she’ll never be his wife. She’s lawfully engaged to another.
He exits.	He exits.
SATURNINUS 305 No, Titus, no, the Emperor needs her not, Nor her, nor thee, nor any of thy stock. I’ll trust by leisure him that mocks me once, Thee never, nor thy traitorous haughty sons, Confederates all thus to dishonor me. 310 Was none in Rome to make a stale But Saturnine? Full well, Andronicus, Agree these deeds with that proud brag of thine That said’st I begged the empire at thy hands.	SATURNINUS No, Titus, no, the Emperor doesn’t need her—not her, or you, or any of your family. I might eventually learn to trust a man who mocks me once, but I’ll never trust you oryour traitorous, arrogant sons, allies who all planned to dishonor me. Was there no one else in Rome to make a laughingstock of besides Saturnine? This behavior, Andronicus, is just like when you bragged that I begged you for the empire.
TITUS O monstrous! What reproachful words are these?	TITUS This is outrageous! Why are you being so insulting?
SATURNINUS 315 But go thy ways. Go give that changing piece To him that flourished for her with his sword. A valiant son-in-law thou shalt enjoy, One fit to bandy with thy lawless sons, To ruffle in the commonwealth of Rome.	SATURNINUS Go away. Go give that silly woman to the man swinging his sword around for her. You’ll enjoy having a brave son-in-law, one fit to brawl with your lawless sons, to disturb the peace in the kingdom of Rome.
TITUS 320 These words are razors to my wounded heart.	TITUS These words are like razors that cut my wounded heart.
SATURNINUS And therefore, lovely Tamora, Queen of Goths, That like the stately Phoebe ’mongst her nymphs Dost overshine the gallant’st dames of Rome, If thou be pleased with this my sudden choice, 325 Behold, I choose thee, Tamora, for my bride, And will create thee Emperess of Rome. Speak, Queen of Goths, dost thou applaud my choice? And here I swear by all the Roman gods, 330 Sith priest and holy water are so near, And tapers burn so bright, and everything In readiness for Hymenaeus stand, I will not resalute the streets of Rome Or climb my palace till from forth this place 335 I lead espoused my bride along with me.	SATURNINUS And therefore, lovely Tamora, Queen of Goths, who, like the glorious Phoebe In Greek mythology, Phoebe was associated with brightness. She identified with the moon, like her Roman counterpart Diana. Phoebe among her nymphs outshines the finest looking women of Rome, if you will agree to my sudden change of heart, I choose you, Tamora, for my bride, and will make you the Empress of Rome. Tell me, Queen of Goths, does this make you happy? And, since priests and holy water are so near, and the candles burn so bright, and everything is ready for Hymenaeus Hymenaeus is the Roman god of marriage. Hymenaeus, I swear by all the Roman gods that I will not go back out onto the streets of Rome or go up to my palace unless I’m married with my bride by my side.
TAMORA And here in sight of heaven to Rome I swear, If Saturnine advance the Queen of Goths, She will a handmaid be to his desires, A loving nurse, a mother to his youth.	TAMORA And here, by heaven, I swear to Rome, if Saturnine marries the Queen of Goths, she will be a servant to his desires, a loving nurse, and a mother to his children.
SATURNINUS 340 Ascend, fair queen, to Pantheon.—Lords, accompany Your noble emperor and his lovely bride, Sent by the heavens for Prince Saturnine, Whose wisdom hath her fortune conquerèd. There shall we consummate our spousal rites.	SATURNINUS Come up, fair queen, and let’s go to the Pantheon.—Lords, accompany your noble emperor and his lovely bride, sent from heaven to Prince Saturnine, who has wisely overcome her misfortune. There we will say our marriage vows.
All but TITUS exit.	All but TITUS exit.
TITUS 345 I am not bid to wait upon this bride. Titus, when wert thou wont to walk alone, Dishonored thus and challengèd of wrongs?	TITUS I am not invited to this wedding. Titus, when was the last time you walked alone, dishonored like this and accused of wrongdoing?
Enter MARCUS and TITUS’ sons LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS.	MARCUS and TITUS’s sons LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS enter.
MARCUS O Titus, see! O, see what thou hast done! In a bad quarrel slain a virtuous son.	MARCUS Oh Titus, look! Oh, look what you have done! You’ve killed a virtuous son for no good reason.
TITUS 350 No, foolish tribune, no; no son of mine, Nor thou, nor these confederates in the deed That hath dishonored all our family. Unworthy brother and unworthy sons!	TITUS No, foolish tribune, no. He’s no son of mine, nor are you, nor are these allies who participated in the event that has dishonored my entire family. Unworthy brother and unworthy sons!
LUCIUS But let us give him burial as becomes, 355 Give Mutius burial with our brethren.	LUCIUS But let us give him a fitting burial. Let Mutius be buried with our brothers.
TITUS Traitors, away! He rests not in this tomb. This monument five hundred years hath stood, Which I have sumptuously reedified. Here none but soldiers and Rome’s servitors 360 Repose in fame, none basely slain in brawls. Bury him where you can. He comes not here.	TITUS Traitors, go away! He will not rest in this tomb. This monument has stood for five hundred years, and I restored it lavishly. Here, only soldiers and Rome’s servants rest in honor, not people killed in lowly brawls. Bury him wherever you want, but he’s not coming in here.
MARCUS My lord, this is impiety in you. My nephew Mutius’ deeds do plead for him. He must be buried with his brethren.	MARCUS My lord, this is unholy of you. My nephew Mutius’s actions were honorable. He must be buried with his brothers.
MARTIUS 365 And shall, or him we will accompany.	MARTIUS And he will be, or we will die trying.
TITUS “And shall”? What villain was it spake that word?	TITUS “And he will be”? What villain said those words?
MARTIUS He that would vouch it in any place but here.	MARTIUS He who would say them in any place less holy than here.
TITUS What, would you bury him in my despite?	TITUS What, you would bury him here without my consent?
MARCUS No, noble Titus, but entreat of thee 370 To pardon Mutius and to bury him.	MARCUS No, noble Titus, but we beg you to pardon Mutius and to bury him.
TITUS Marcus, even thou hast struck upon my crest, And with these boys mine honor thou hast wounded. My foes I do repute you every one. So trouble me no more, but get you gone.	TITUS Marcus, even you have struck me on my helmet, and along with these boys you have wounded my honor. I count every one of you as my enemy. So stop bothering me and go away.
QUINTUS 375 He is not with himself; let us withdraw.	QUINTUS He’s not himself. Let’s leave.
MARTIUS Not I, till Mutius’ bones be burièd.	MARTIUS I won’t, not until Mutius’s body has been buried.
The brother (MARCUS) and the sons (LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS) kneel.	The brother (MARCUS) and the sons (LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS) kneel.
MARCUS Brother, for in that name doth nature plead—	MARCUS Brother, for that name reminds you of our natural ties—
MARTIUS Father, and in that name doth nature speak—	MARTIUS Father, and in that name nature speaks, too—
TITUS Speak thou no more, if all the rest will speed.	TITUS Say no more, if you’re going to say what I think you are.
MARCUS 380 Renownèd Titus, more than half my soul—	MARCUS Renowned Titus, who is more than half my soul—
LUCIUS Dear father, soul and substance of us all—	LUCIUS Dear father, the soul and body of us all—
MARCUS Suffer thy brother Marcus to inter His noble nephew here in virtue’s nest, That died in honor and Lavinia’s cause. 385 Thou art a Roman; be not barbarous. The Greeks upon advice did bury Ajax, That slew himself, and wise Laertes’ son Did graciously plead for his funerals. Let not young Mutius, then, that was thy joy, 390 Be barred his entrance here.	MARCUS Let your brother Marcus place his noble nephew, who died honorably on Lavinia’s behalf, here in this holy ground. You are a Roman; don’t be barbaric. The Greeks were convinced to bury Ajax, who had killed himself, after wise Laertes’s son graciously begged for a funeral In the Trojan War, the Greek general Ajax was angry because Laertes’s son, Ulysses, received the deceased warrior Achilles’s armor instead of him. In a mad rage, he killed a flock of sheep, thinking they were Greek generals. Afterward, ashamed of his actions, he killed himself. Although, at that time, people who committed suicide were not given proper burials, Ulysses persuaded the Greeks to give him one. funeral. So don’t let young Mutius, who you loved, be barred from entering here.
TITUS Rise, Marcus, rise. They rise. The dismall’st day is this that e’er I saw, To be dishonored by my sons in Rome. Well, bury him, and bury me the next.	TITUS Rise, Marcus, rise. They rise. This is the saddest day I’ve ever seen, to be dishonored by my sons in Rome. Well, bury him then, and bury me next.
They put MUTIUS in the tomb.	They put MUTIUS in the tomb.
LUCIUS 395 There lie thy bones, sweet Mutius, with thy friends’, Till we with trophies do adorn thy tomb.	LUCIUS Let your bones lie therewith your friends, sweet Mutius, until we cover your tomb with trophies won in battle.
They all except TITUS kneel and say: No man shed tears for noble Mutius. He lives in fame, that died in virtue’s cause.	Everyone except TITUS kneels and says: Let no man cry for noble Mutius. He lives on in fame for dying for a virtuous cause.
All but MARCUS and TITUS exit.	All but MARCUS and TITUS exit.
MARCUS My lord, to step out of these dreary dumps, 400 How comes it that the subtle Queen of Goths Is of a sudden thus advanced in Rome?	MARCUS My lord, to move on from this mournful mood: How has the clever Queen of Goths suddenly been promoted in Rome?
TITUS I know not, Marcus, but I know it is. Whether by device or no, the heavens can tell. Is she not then beholding to the man 405 That brought her for this high good turn so far? Yes, and will nobly him remunerate.	TITUS I don’t know, Marcus, but I know it has happened. Whether it’s a scheme or not, only the heavens can tell. So, isn’t she indebted to the man who rose her up for such high honors? Yes, and she will pay him generously This sentence may have been inserted after Shakespeare wrote this play. generously.
Flourish. Enter the Emperor SATURNINUS, TAMORA and her two sons, with AARON the Moor, Drums and Trumpets, at one door. Enter at the other door BASSANINUS and LAVINIA, with LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS, and others.	A fanfare of trumpets plays. The Emperor SATURNINUS, TAMORA and her two sons, with AARON the Moor, Drums and Trumpets enter at one door. BASSANINUS and LAVINIA, with LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS, and others enter at the other door.
SATURNINUS So, Bassianus, you have played your prize. God give you joy, sir, of your gallant bride.	SATURNINUS So, Bassianus, you have won your fight. May you be blessed with joy, sir, in your noble bride.
BASSIANUS And you of yours, my lord. I say no more, 410 Nor wish no less, and so I take my leave.	BASSIANUS And the same to you, my lord. I’ll say no more, and don’t wish you any less, so I’ll leave now.
SATURNINUS Traitor, if Rome have law or we have power, Thou and thy faction shall repent this rape.	SATURNINUS Traitor, if Rome has laws or I have power, you and your brothers will regret this rape.
BASSIANUS “Rape” call you it, my lord, to seize my own, My true betrothèd love and now my wife? 415 But let the laws of Rome determine all. Meanwhile am I possessed of that is mine.	BASSIANUS You call it “rape,” my lord, to take my own, my true fiancée and love, who is now my wife? Let the laws of Rome decide. In the meantime, I have what is mine.
SATURNINUS ’Tis good, sir, you are very short with us. But if we live, we’ll be as sharp with you.	SATURNINUS Very well, sir, you are very dismissive. And as long as I live, I’ll be just as insulting to you.
BASSIANUS My lord, what I have done, as best I may, 420 Answer I must, and shall do with my life. Only thus much I give your Grace to know: By all the duties that I owe to Rome, This noble gentleman, Lord Titus here, Is in opinion and in honor wronged, 425 That in the rescue of Lavinia With his own hand did slay his youngest son, In zeal to you, and highly moved to wrath To be controlled in that he frankly gave. Receive him then to favor, Saturnine, 430 That hath expressed himself in all his deeds A father and a friend to thee and Rome.	BASSIANUS My lord, I will take responsibility for what I have done as best as I can and with my life if necessary. But I would like your Grace to know: I swear by my duties to Rome that this noble gentleman, Lord Titus here, has, in his reputation and honor, been wrongfully accused, for with his own hands he killed his youngest son trying to rescue Lavinia, out of loyalty to you, and because he was extremely angry to be thwarted in what he gave you unconditionally. So give him your goodwill, Saturnine. He has shown himself in all his actions to be a father and a friend to you and Rome.
TITUS Prince Bassianus, leave to plead my deeds. ’Tis thou, and those, that have dishonored me. Rome and the righteous heavens be my judge 435 How I have loved and honored Saturnine.	TITUS Prince Bassianus, let me speak for myself. It’s you and these others who have dishonored me. Rome and the righteous heavens can judge how I have loved and honored Saturnine.
He kneels.	He kneels.
TAMORA to SATURNINUS My worthy lord, if ever Tamora Were gracious in those princely eyes of thine, Then hear me speak indifferently for all, And at my suit, sweet, pardon what is past.	TAMORA to SATURNINUS My worthy lord, if you love Tamora , then let me speak as a neutral party and do as I ask, my sweet, to forgive what is in the past.
SATURNINUS 440 What, madam, be dishonored openly, And basely put it up without revenge?	SATURNINUS What, madam? Be openly dishonored and allow it without getting revenge?
TAMORA Not so, my lord; the gods of Rome forfend I should be author to dishonor you. But on mine honor dare I undertake 445 For good Lord Titus’ innocence in all, Whose fury not dissembled speaks his griefs. Then at my suit look graciously on him. Lose not so noble a friend on vain suppose, Nor with sour looks afflict his gentle heart. 450 Aside to Saturninus. My lord, be ruled by me; be won at last. Dissemble all your griefs and discontents. You are but newly planted in your throne. Lest, then, the people, and patricians too, 455 Upon a just survey take Titus’ part And so supplant you for ingratitude, Which Rome reputes to be a heinous sin. Yield at entreats, and then let me alone. I’ll find a day to massacre them all 460 And raze their faction and their family, The cruel father and his traitorous sons, To whom I sued for my dear son’s life, And make them know what ’tis to let a queen Kneel in the streets and beg for grace in vain. 465 Aloud. Come, come, sweet emperor.—Come, Andronicus.— Take up this good old man, and cheer the heart That dies in tempest of thy angry frown.	TAMORA No, my lord. May the gods of Rome never allow me to be the cause of your dishonor. But on my honor I’m prepared to vouch for good Lord Titus’s complete innocence. His genuine anger shows his real grief. So do what I ask and be kind to him. Don’t lose such a noble friend out of suspicion or hurt his kind heart with dirty looks. Aside to Saturninus. My lord, listen to me, and let me persuade you. Let go of all your grief and anger—you have only just gotten the throne—in case the common people and the noblemen, when they think about it, also take Titus’s side and overthrow you for ingratitude, which Rome regards as a hideous sin. Give in to my requests, and then leave it to me. I’ll find a day to massacre them all, destroy their group and their family—the cruel father and his traitorous sons, whom I begged for my dear son’s life—and I will show them what happens to those who let a queen kneel in the streets and beg for mercy in vain. Aloud. Come, come, sweet emperor.—Come, Andronicus.—Get this man up and cheer up his heart, which ails in the storm of your angry frown.
SATURNINUS Rise, Titus, rise. My empress hath prevailed.	SATURNINUS Rise, Titus, rise. My empress has convinced me.
TITUS rising 470 I thank your Majesty and her, my lord. These words, these looks, infuse new life in me.	TITUS rising My lord, I thank both your Majesty and her. These words and expressions of forgiveness breathe new life into me.
TAMORA Titus, I am incorporate in Rome, A Roman now adopted happily, And must advise the Emperor for his good. 475 This day all quarrels die, Andronicus.— And let it be mine honor, good my lord, That I have reconciled your friends and you.— For you, Prince Bassianus, I have passed My word and promise to the Emperor 480 That you will be more mild and tractable.— And fear not, lords—and you, Lavinia. By my advice, all humbled on your knees, You shall ask pardon of his Majesty.	TAMORA Titus, I have been formally admitted into Rome, now a happy naturalized Roman, and must advise the Emperor what’s best. On this day, let all quarrels die, Andronicus.—And it was my honor, my good lord, to have reconciled your friends and you.—For you, Prince Bassianus, I have given my word and promise to the Emperor that you will be more restrained and obedient in the future. And don’t be afraid, lords—nor you, Lavinia. Take my advice: kneel humbly and ask his Majesty for forgiveness.
MARCUS, LAVINIA, LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS kneel.	MARCUS, LAVINIA, LUCIUS, MARTIUS, and QUINTUS kneel.
LUCIUS We do, and vow to heaven and to his Highness 485 That what we did was mildly as we might, Tend’ring our sister’s honor and our own.	LUCIUS We do, and promise heaven and his Highness that we behaved as calmly as we could when our sister’s honor and our own was at stake.
MARCUS That on mine honor here do I protest.	MARCUS On my honor, I promise that too.
SATURNINUS Away, and talk not; trouble us no more.	SATURNINUS Go away and stop talking; don’t bother us anymore.
TAMORA Nay, nay, sweet emperor, we must all be friends. 490 The tribune and his nephews kneel for grace. I will not be denied. Sweetheart, look back.	TAMORA No, no, sweet emperor, we must all be friends. The tribune and his nephews kneel for forgiveness. I won’t take no for an answer. Sweetheart, turn around.
SATURNINUS Marcus, for thy sake, and thy brother’s here, And at my lovely Tamora’s entreats, I do remit these young men’s heinous faults. 495 Stand up. They rise. Lavinia, though you left me like a churl, I found a friend, and sure as death I swore I would not part a bachelor from the priest. Come, if the Emperor’s court can feast two brides, 500 You are my guest, Lavinia, and your friends.— This day shall be a love-day, Tamora.	SATURNINUS Marcus, for your sake, and for the sake of your brother here, and at the pleading of my lovely Tamora, I forgive these young men’s heinous crimes. Stand up. They rise. Lavinia, although you callously left me, I found another, and as sure as death I swore I would not walk away from the priest a single man. Come, if the Emperor’s court can celebrate two brides, you can be my guest, Lavinia, as well as your friends.—This day will be a day full of love, Tamora.
TITUS Tomorrow, an it please your Majesty To hunt the panther and the hart with me, With horn and hound we’ll give your Grace bonjour.	TITUS Tomorrow, your Majesty, if you’d like, come hunt panthers and deer with me, and we will welcome your Grace with horns and dogs.
SATURNINUS 505 Be it so, Titus, and gramercy too.	SATURNINUS That sounds good, Titus, and thank you.
Sound trumpets. All but AARON exit.	Trumpets sound. All but AARON exit.

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Next page Act 2, Scene 1

Original Text

Modern Text

Noble patricians

Caesar’s son

Goths

tribune

King Priam

Styx

died

Scythians

tyrant

Solon

earth

Pantheon

Phoebe

Hymenaeus

funeral

generously

Original Text

Modern Text

Noble patricians

Caesar’s son

Goths

tribune

King Priam

Styx

died

Scythians

tyrant

Solon

earth

Pantheon

Phoebe

Hymenaeus

funeral

generously

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