OCR Text |
Show PROGRAMMES OF BALLETS. 297 The wretched Hippolytus, not having ventured to render Phaedra an object of disgust to his father, yet finds himself labouring under paternal hatred; and dreads the fatal consequences. Aricia appears. She comes to learn the result of the interview, and is astonished to see the grief into which her lover is plunged. He revives at her presence, but it is only to inform her of the horrors of his fate. Aricia shudders with surprise. The abominable crime of Phaedra and the wrath of Theseus is about to force them into exile. Aricia, her heart oppressed and torn with what she has heard, gives new proofs of her affection to Hippolytus, by swearing to be his for ever. After having implored the protection of the Gods, they give orders for departure. ACT IV. The scene discovers the sea-port of Threzene in the distance. Farther still appear the tombs of the ancestors of Hippolytus. In the centre stands a temple of simple but majestic architecture, dedicated to Diana. A vessel lies near the shore. PRIESTS open the temple ; they appear occupied in the service of the divinity they adore; and are preparing for a religious ceremony. Hippolytus, Aricia, Theramenes, and their equipage arrive. The young Prince directs attention to the temple, and to the scene, as objects of his dearest wishes, it being here that he hopes for the joy of being united to the beautiful Aricia, who then expresses her entire affection for him. Every one appears to take a lively interest in their fate ; and the sacred Priests receive them |