ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

ADAM
A new translation from the Old French
into English rhyming verse
by
David Maskell
Oxford 2012
The Play of Adam was written in Old French around 1170 by an unknown author. In the history of European
drama it is the earliest surviving play in a vernacular language. It was destined to be accessible to ordinary
people at a time when Latin was the language of religious services in the Christian church and understood only
by the minority of the population who had received formal education.
The play falls into three sections:
1. The expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.
2. Cains murder of Abel.
3. Prophecies concerning the coming of Jesus who will save mankind from the terrible consequences of the
disobedience of Adam and Eve.
The purpose of this translation is to render the text of the play into clear, natural English suitable for modern
performance.
In the manuscript, the play is entitled Ordo representacionis Adae.and is prefaced with some general guidance
on staging and costumes written in Latin. Other stage directions are also in Latin. These are translated into
English and given in italics in this translation.
The dialogue which forms the bulk of the play is written in Old French, mainly in rhyming couplets but also
with some four-line stanzas on a single rhyme. The English translation follows the rhyme scheme of the original
line by line.
As the action unfolds it is interspersed with short pieces of choral singing called responsories. These are short
extracts from the Bible and give the theme of the dramatized scenes which follow. These responsories are given
here in both the original Latin and in English translation. Some of the scenes are invented by the anonymous
dramatist and are not found in the Bible.
Words in square brackets are supplied in this version to assist the understanding of the plays structure and to
give the full text of the biblical readings which are indicated in the manuscript only by their opening words.
The play has come down to us in a single manuscript which ends abruptly. This suggests that the text is
incomplete. In this version a concluding scene has been composed by the translator in the style and spirit of the
original. This added scene gathers together the threads of the action and points forward to the commemoration
of the birth of Jesus at Christmas time, a theme which is implicit all through the play.

The translation follows the text and line numbering of Le Jeu dAdam (Ordo Representacionis Ade) ed. Willem Noomen, Classiques
Francais du Moyen Age, Paris, 1971 [TAY: CC.F.094]. There have been two previous translations:
Adam: a religious play of the twelfth century, translated from the Norman French by Edward Noble Stone, 2nd printing, Washington, 1928.
[TAY: A/K.5238.A.2] Rhyming verse, archaic language.
Adam: A Twelfth-Century Play, translated from the Norman French by Lynette R. Muir, Leeds, 1970 (Proceedings of Leeds Philosophical
and Literary Society) [TAY: B.Per] Blank verse, mostly close to the French, but with some freedoms.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

ORDER FOR THE

STAGING OF ADAM
Ordo representacionis Adae.
Translation of the Latin instructions for staging.
Words in square brackets are added by the
translator for the sake of clarity:
[SCENERY] Paradise is constructed on a raised
place. Around it are curtains and silk hangings
surrounding it at such a height that the persons
who are in paradise can be seen from the shoulders
upwards. It is decorated with ferns and sweet
scented flowers, and also varied trees with fruit
hanging from them, so that it seems to be a very
pleasant place.
[COSTUMES] God the Saviour comes in wearing a
dalmatic. Adam and Eve take their place before
him. Adam wears a red tunic. Eve is in white
garments suitable for a woman, with a white silk
headdress.
[BLOCKING]. They both stand before God. Adam
is closer with a calm expression. Eve is more
humble.
[SPEECH AND GESTURE]. Adam must be
carefully rehearsed so that he speaks at the right
time, neither to soon nor too late. Not only he, but
all the actors must be rehearsed so that they speak
calmly, and make gestures appropriate to what they
are saying. In the verse they must neither add nor
omit a syllable, but pronounce everything clearly
and say in proper order whatever they have to say.
Whenever anyone names Paradise, they must point
to it with their hand.
------------------------------The play starts with the reading
[of Genesis Chapter 1]
1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and
the earth.
[1:2 And the earth was without form, and void; and
darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the
Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
1:3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was
light.
1:4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and
God divided the light from the darkness.
1:5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness
he called Night. And the evening and the morning
were the first day.
1:6 And God said, Let there be a firmament in the
midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters
from the waters.
1:7 And God made the firmament, and divided the

waters which were under the firmament from the

waters which were above the firmament: and it was
so.
1:8 And God called the firmament Heaven. And the
evening and the morning were the second day.
1:9 And God said, Let the waters under the heaven
be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry
land appear: and it was so.
1:10 And God called the dry land Earth; and the
gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and
God saw that it was good.
1:11 And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass,
the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding
fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the
earth: and it was so.
1:12 And the earth brought forth grass, and herb
yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding
fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind: and
God saw that it was good.
1:13 And the evening and the morning were the
third day.
1:14 And God said, Let there be lights in the
firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the
night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons,
and for days, and years:
1:15 And let them be for lights in the firmament of
the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was
so.
1:16 And God made two great lights; the greater
light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the
night: he made the stars also.
1:17 And God set them in the firmament of the
heaven to give light upon the earth,
1:18 And to rule over the day and over the night,
and to divide the light from the darkness: and God
saw that it was good.
1:19 And the evening and the morning were the
fourth day.
1:20 And God said, Let the waters bring forth
abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and
fowl that may fly above the earth in the open
firmament of heaven.
1:21 And God created great whales, and every
living creature that moveth, which the waters
brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and
every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that
it was good.
1:22 And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful,
and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let
fowl multiply in the earth.]
[FIRST RESPONSORY]
When the reading has finished, the choir sings:
R1. Formavit igitur Dominus hominem [de limo
terrae, et inspiravit in faciem eius spiraculum vitae,
/ et factus est homo in animam viventem.
Versus. In principio fecit Deus coelum et terram, et
plasmavit in ea hominem. Et inspiravit in faciem
eius spiraculum vitae,
R2. Et factus est homo in animam viventem]

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

R1. And the Lord God formed man of the dust

of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the
breath of life; / and man became a living soul.
V. In the beginning God created the heaven and
the earth and created man in it.
R2. And man became a living soul.
------------------------When this has finished, God says:
GOD. Adam!
ADAM.
Sire.
GOD.
I made you
Of clay.
ADAM. I know that this is true.
2a
GOD. And I breathed life into your soul.
2b
To create my likeness was my goal.
Adam, I made you in my image.
To disobey me would be an outrage.
ADAM. Of course Ill listen to what you say.
Never shall I disobey.
GOD. As your companion youve received
A loving wife. Her name is Eve.
Your wife is equally good as you.
10
Make sure that you are always true
To her. You must love each other.
Then Ill care for you together.
All your commands she must fulfil,
And both of you must respect my will.
15
From your rib she was created,
Thats how closely youre related.
Out of your flesh I fashioned her.
No other flesh did I prefer.
Govern her wisely. Let there be
20
Nothing on which you disagree.
Let each one seek the others advantage.
That must be the law of marriage.
Eve! I want to speak. Come here!
God to Eve:
To all my laws you must adhere. 25
If you d my will, all shall go well,
And with great love your heart will swell.
Recognise me as your lord,
And let us be of one accord.
Serve me truly with all your heart.
30
Never let your love fall short.
Love Adam. Never stir up strife.
Hes your husband. Youre his wife.
Take care to never give him cause
For grief. Dont disobey his laws.
35
Always be a submissive spouse,
That is the rule of marriage vows.
If as a good partners you are seen,
You bth shall be held in high esteem.
EVE. Ill always satisfy your pleasure.
Every word of yours Ill treasure.
Youll be my lord and Adam too.
Ill honour him as I do you.
Ill always show him loyalty,
And hell get good support from me.

40

45

I shall always strive to do

Your service, and what pleases you.
Then God calls Adam to come closer and speaks to
him earnestly:
GOD. Hear me, Adam, listen to my plan.
I want to complete the work that I began.
Obey me in every way and if you can,
50
Youll live in peace and be a happy man.
If you follow my divine regime
Abundance to eat and drink will be routine.
For you no climate shall be too extreme.
No pain or heartache: joy will reign supreme. 55
All your life you shll be free from care.
And never shall you die or disappear.
I tell you this, and also Eve must hear,
You shall obey me, let that be quite clear.
You shall be lord over all that you survey,
And over all animals that come your way.
Whoever fails to bow to you shall pay.
The universe acknowledges your sway.

60

Both good and evil lie within your heart.

Youre not a slave. You know the noble art 65
Of judging well. Dont deviate or depart
From always following the course I chart.
Stick to what is good; leave what is bad.
Your Lord is with you; with him youll be glad.
Dont ever try to do what I forbade.
70
Dont sin, or youll be miserable and sad.
ADAM.
I give thanks for your kindness and good will.
You made my body, then you did instil
A soul. You gave me power over good and ill.
I shall always strive to do your will.
75
You are my lord, and I am your creation.
You formed me of clay & placed me in this station.
Youll never see me cause you irritation.
What you command, Ill do without hesitation.
Then God points out Paradise to Adam and says:
GOD. Adam!
ADAM.
Yes, my lord.
GOD.
Do you realize
80
What place this is?
ADAM.
What?
GOD.
It is Paradise.
ADAM. Its beautiful.
GOD.
I planted it with trees.
All those I love can stay there at their ease.
I appoint you to guard it and to tend it well.
He sends them into Paradise saying:
GOD. Go in.
ADAM. Is this the place where we can dwell? 85
GOD. Yes, live there always. Live and have no
fear.
Youll never suffer death nor sickness there.
- - - - - - - --

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

[SECOND RESPONSORY]. The choir sings the

responsory:
R1. Tulit ergo Dominus hominem [et posuit eum in
paradiso voluptatis, / ut operaretur et custodiret
illum.
Versus. Formavit igitur Dominus hominem de limo
terrae, et inspiravit in faciem eius spiraculum vitae,
R2 Ut operaretur et custodiret illum.]
R1 The Lord took man therefore and put him
into a paradise of delights / so that he might
dress and keep it.
V. And in the beginning the Lord God planted a
paradise of delights, and breathed the breath of
life into the face of man.
R2. So that he might dress and keep it.
----------------Then God extends his hand towards Paradise,
saying:
GOD. This is the garden. Ill tell you of its nature.
Theres pleasure here for ever in the future.
Everything that could be desired by any creature 90
Is provided as a source of joy and rapture.
Husbands from angry conduct will refrain.
And wives shall never give them cause for shame.
Here man engenders children without stain,
And woman bearing them will not feel pain.
95
Here youll live and always have whatever
You desire. No changes whatsoever
Shall interrupt your joy. And death will never
Cause you harm. You shall live here for ever.
-------------[THIRD RESPONSORY] The choir sings:
R1. Dixit dominus ad Adam: [de ligno quod est in
medio paradisi ne comedas, in qua hora comederis,
morte morieris.
Versus. Ex omni ligno paradise comede, de ligno
autem scientiae boni et mali ne comedas.
R2. In qua hora comederis, morte morieris.]
R1. The Lord said to Adam: of the tree which is
in the midst of Paradise though shalt not eat; /
for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt
surely die.
V. Of every tree of Paradise thou mayest eat; of
the tree of knowledge of good and evil thou shalt
not eat of it.
R2. For in the day that thou eatest thereof thou
shalt surely die.
----------------Then God shows Adam the trees of Paradise,
saying:
GOD. All these fruits you are allowed to try. 100
He shows Adam the forbidden tree and
its fruit, saying:
But this I forbid you, and heres the reason why:
If you eat it you will surely die.
Youll lose my love and change your fate thereby.
ADAM. My lord, all your commands I shall obey.
Eve and I shall never, ever stray.
105

Just for a single fruit, how could I pay

By throwing the joys of Paradise away?
Just for an apple, how could I afford To lose your
love, and never have it restored?
I would be held a traitor and abhorred
110
If by such treason I betrayed my lord.
---------------God goes into the church, and Adam and Eve walk
around Paradise, innocently enjoying themselves.
Meanwhile, demons run around the place, making
suitable gestures. They come up in turn close to
Paradise, showing Eve the forbidden fruit as if
urging her to eat it.
The devil comes to Adam and says:
DEVIL. How are you Adam?
ADAM.
Very well indeed.
DEVIL. Anything you want?
ADAM.
I have no needs.
DEVIL. You could be better off.
ADAM.
I cant see how.
DEVIL. Dont you want to know?
ADAM.
Im happy now.
115
DEVIL. Theres more to life.
ADAM.
Whats that to me?
DEVIL. Just try it out.
ADAM.
Just let it be.
DEVIL. Its worth a try.
ADAM.
Well? Worth how much?
DEVIL. Why should I explain to such
As you?
ADAM.
Well, speak.
DEVIL.
Its not for free. 120
Youll have to beg on bended knee.
ADAM. I do not care if I dont know.
DEVIL. Theres lots of things that I could show,
To make you enjoy what youve got here.
ADAM. What have I got?
DEVIL.
You want to hear?
Listen. Ill give you good advice,
125
And all in secret.
ADAM. That sounds nice.
DEVIL. Then listen, Adam, listen to me.
Its for your good.
ADAM.
Then I agree.
DEVIL. Will you believe me?
ADAM.
Yes, for sure.
130
DEVIL. Completely?
ADAM. Except the oath I swore.
DEVIL. What oath?
ADAM. An oath to my creator
That Id obey him, not turn traitor.
DEVIL. You fear him a lot?
ADAM. Why, yes of course.
I love and fear him.
DEVIL.
Silly ass!
135
What can he do?
ADAM.
Both good and bad.
DEVIL. Adam, you really must be mad.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

What are the bad things he could try?

Here in Paradise you cannot die.
ADAM. God said Id die if I transgressed 140
His laws. He did not speak in jest.
DEVIL. And what is this so-called transgression?
Come, a quick answer to my question!
ADAM. Ill tell you all, just as you want.
This was his express command:
145
I can eat every fruit I see
In paradise. Theyre all for me.
Except one fruit I cannot eat,
Or touch. The ban is quite complete.
DEVIL. Which fruit?
Adam raises his hand
and shows him the forbidden fruit.
ADAM. It's there. It is not hidden.
150
That's the one that is forbidden.
DEVIL. And why?
ADAM.
I've really no idea.
DEVIL. I'll tell you why. It is quite clear.
For other fruits God does not care,
Except for the one that hangs up there.
He points to the forbidden fruit and says to
Adam:
That fruit gives knowledge. If you eat,
Your knowledge of all will be complete.
Eat! Youll be doing a marvellous thing.
ADAM. But in what way?
DEVIL. Youll see it bring
New vision to your eyes at once.
160
Youll see the future in advance.
Whatever you want will be yours to do.
Bring that fruit down here for you,
Then eat it. Youll be doing good,
And never have to fear your God.
165
Youll be his equal, this I swear.
Thats why he wouldnt let you share.
Dont you believe me? Taste the fruit!
ADAM. I wont.
DEVIL.
But it is all about
Pleasure. Why not?
ADAM.
No.
DEVIL.
How absurd!
170
But, Adam... you wont forget my words!
---------------The devil withdraws. He goes to the other demons
and circulates around the scene. After a while he
returns, all cheerful and joyful to tempt Adam and
says:
DEVIL. Well, Adam, will you change your mind?
Why must you always be so blind!
I tried to tell you yesterday.
It is Gods will, youre here to stay.
175
Hes given you this fruit to eat.
What other pleasure is so sweet?
ADAM. Yes, but I hve all I desire.
DEVIL. Adam, you should aim much higher.
You could achieve a reputation,
180
And rise above your humble station.
God created you to tend his garden.

Is it fun to be just a guardian?

Just a stomach always feeding?
Come! Its status that youre needing.
185
Listen, Adam, listen to me.
I tell you in all honesty,
You could be living like a lord,
Equal to God. Thats your reward,
If you eat the apple. I can tell
190
That everything will then go well.
Here he points up to the paradise.
You can rule like a king up there.
Gods majesty is yours to share.
ADAM. Get out from here.
DEVIL. Whats that you say?
ADAM. Get out! Satan, go away!
195
Youre evil.
DEVIL. Me?
ADAM.
I know it well.
You want to drag me down to hell,
Get me in trouble with my lord,
With torment and pain for my reward.
I dont believe you. Get away!
200
Dont you dare lead me astray!
I see through all your sly deceit.
You are a traitor and a cheat.
-------------The devil is gloomy and downcast as he leaves
Adam. He goes to the Gates of Hell and talks with
the other demons. After this he walks around
among the people. Then he goes up to Paradise
where Eve is, and speaks to her with smiling face::
DEVIL. Eve, look here, Ive come to you.
EVE. Satan, tell me what to do.
205
DEVIL. I want to do you a great favour.
EVE. That's good.
DEVIL. It's something you can savour.
I learned Gods secrets long ago.
There's none of them I do not know.
Would you like to hear a secret?
210
EVE. Oh, tell me please. I cannot wait.
DEVIL. You'll listen?
EVE.
Yes, to all you say.
I wont upset you in any way.
DEVIL. You'll keep it quiet?
EVE.
I do agree.
DEVIL. It might get out.
EVE.
But not through me.
215
DEVIL. My trust in you is now complete.
Im sure you will be quite discreet.
EVE. I give you my most solemn word.
DEVIL. Well said! I am most reassured.
I spoke to Adam. Hes so stupid.
220
EVE. Thick, Id say.
DEVIL.
He is a bit.
He'll soften, though he's hard as hell.
EVE. He's honest.
DEVIL. But a serf as well.
Totally without ambition.
He shuld care mre for yur position. 225

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

You're delicate and most refined.

A sweeter rose no one could find,
Sparkling like crystal, whiter than snow
What fine qualities you show!
God did not think hard enough
230
When he put you together. Adams so rough,
And you're so sweet, but much more wise.
Intllignce shines in your eyes.
So coming to yu is really best.
I'll tell you things.
EVE.
Well then, make haste.
235
DEVIL. Will anyone know?
EVE.
Who could that be?
DEVIL. Adam, perhaps?
EVE.
No, not through me.
DEVIL. All right. I'll whisper in your ear.
We are alone together here.
Adam's ver there. He must not know.
240
EVE. Speak up! No need to speak so low!
DEVIL. I'll tell you of this cunning ploy,
Which God decided to employ.
The fruits that you're allowed to eat
Are bland and tasteless -- what a cheat!
245
But in the fruit that he's forbidden,
Special energy lies hidden.
This fruit can mean new life for you
It gives you power and lordship too,
And knowledge of both good and ill.
250
EVE. Does it taste good?
DEVIL.
Celestial!
With such beauty in your face,
To lose this chance would be a disgrace.
You could be mistress over all,
All people at your beck and call.
255
You'd knw all tht there is to know
In heaven abve and on erth below.
EVE. Will the fruit do that?
DEVIL. Why, yes it should.
Eve looks carefully at the forbidden fruit
and, gazing at it, she says:
EVE. Just seeing it makes me feel good.
DEVIL. If you eat, you know what's next? 260
EVE. How can I know?
DEVIL. You'll see its effects.
Pluck it down first, and when you've given
It to Adam, the crown of heaven
Will be yours, and you will rise
To be like God, and just as wise.
265
When you've eaten, all will change.
You'll be reborn, and you'll exchange
Your mortal life to be God's equal.
You'll feel so good, and really regal.
Taste it!
EVE.
Yes, I'm pondering.
270
DEVIL. Don't trust Adam.
EVE.
That's the thing.
DEVIL. Eat now!
EVE. When Adam's gone to rest,
Then I'll eat, that would be best.

DEVIL. Eat now. Why all this hesitation?

It's childish, this procrastination!
275
-----------------The Devil leaves Eve and goes to hell. Adam comes
up to Eve feeling very annoyed that she has been
talking to the Devil and he says to her:
ADAM. What did he want, that evil Satan?
Tell me what liberties hes taken.
EVE. He told me our fortune could be much
greater.
ADAM. Dont believe this lying traitor.
He is deceitful. I know it well.
280
EVE. How so?
ADAM. Ive heard the lies he tells.
EVE. Why worry if I talked to him?
ADAM. Hell very likely make you sin.
EVE. Hell not do that. I will find out
If he speaks truthfully or not.
285
ADAM. Dont even think to let him near.
He is a cheat, thats very clear.
He wants to betray his lord and master,
And rival God. Thats what hes after.
He is a wretch who I abhor.
290
I dont want him near you any more.
Then a cleverly fabricated serpent climbs up the
forbidden tree. Eve turns her ear towards it as if
seeking its advice. She next takes the apple and
offers it to Adam. He refuses to take it, so Eve says
to him:
EVE. Eat this Adam. Try its taste.
Dont let good fortune go to waste.
ADAM. Is it so good?
EVE.
You cannot tell
Unless you taste and chew it well.
295
ADAM.
Im worried.
EVE. Leave it then.
ADAM.
No, wait!
EVE. Youre such a coward to hesitate!
ADAM. Ill try it then.
EVE.
I hope you will.
Then youll know both good and ill.
Now give it me and Ill eat first.
300
ADAM. Me next.
EVE.
Youre really sure at last?
Then Eve eats part of the apple and says to Adam:
EVE. Ive tasted it. God, what a flavour!
Never have I known such savour.
This taste ... Adam, my mind is blown.
ADAM. What taste?
EVE.
A taste Ive never known. 305
It makes me see with clearer eyes.
I am like God up in the skies.
All that is past and future too,
Suddenly comes into view.
Eat, Adam, eat, and dont delay.
310
This is ur most lucky day.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

Then Adam takes the apple from Eves hand and

says:
ADAM. You are my wife. I must believe you.
EVE. Eat and youll knw I dont deceive you.
Then Adam eats part of the apple. As soon as he
has eaten it, he realises his sin. He bends down, so
he cant be seen by the people. He takes off his
solemn vestments and puts on poor clothes, sewn
with fig leaves. Displaying great grief he starts his
lamentation:
ADAM. Alas, What have I done? Ive sinned.
Im dead, and nothing can rescind
315
The punishment thats now decreed.
My evil fate is guaranteed.
Alas, all has now changed for me.
First happiness, now misery.
Ive abandoned my creator
320
Through my wife who turned me traitor.
What can I do? I was insane.
How can I face my God again.
How can I look him in the face
Covered in shame and in disgrace.
325
Never was there so bad a deal,
For now I know that sin is real.
Death, why do you still let me live?
My sin is such, none will forgive.
330
To all the world I am a burden.
My place is deep in hell, thats certain.
Hell shall henceforth be my home,
Until some saviour shall come.
Eternal hell, I now foresee.
335
Who can help or rescue me?
Who could release me from these chains,
And end the torment and the pains?
Why did I betray my master ?
Hell abandon me in this disaster.
Im worthy of no mans attention.
340
I am lost beyond redemption.
My sin against my lord is so great,
I deserve no pardon, only hate.
I was wrong and he was right.
Oh God, Im in a wretched plight.
345
Ive lost all hope of liberation,
Offending the lord of all creation.
My gracious lord has seen me fall.
Whats my defence? Ive none at all.
Im quite alone in this because
350
No friend would dare to plead my cause.
Who can I ask for help or aid,
When by my wife Ive been betrayed?
Alas! This is the wife God gave.
See with what guile she has behaved!
355
Oh, Eve!
Then he catches sight of Eve , his wife and says:
O woman, woe betide
The day God made you from my side.
I wish my rib had been consumed by fire.
Your birth has brought me into dire
Peril. Why was my rib not burned?
360

Only dishonour has it earned.

When God took my rib, O why
Did he not burn it and let me die?
This rib is cause of my downfall,
Hated and spurned by one and all.
365
Theres nothing I can do nor say,
Unless forgiveness comes my way.
I cant escape. I dont know how,
Such is the pain I suffer now.
Eve, Eve, this was an evil moment, 370
Which has brought me nothing but frightful
torment,
When God made you my equal partner.
Now to Satan Im a prisoner.
Eve, it was by your advice
That Im cast down from glorious heights. 375
None can raise me up again,
Unless God wipes this fatal stain.
But Ive no right to seek his aid,
For hes the one I have betrayed.
I will be shunned by everyone,
380
Except when Mary bears her son.
Who now will dare to do us good,
Since we broke our faith with God.
Gods judgment we cannot defy.
Theres nothing left except to die.
385
----------------[FOURTH RESPONSORY] The choir sings:
R1. Dum deambularet [Dominus in paradisum, ad
auram post meridiem, clamavit et dixit: Adam, ubi
es? Audivi, domine, vocem tuam, et abscondi me.
Versus. Domine, audivi auditum tuum et timui,
consideravi opera tua et expavi.
R2. Et abscondi me.]
R1. The Lord walked in Paradise in the evening
air, and called and said: Adam, where art thou?
I heard thy voice, O Lord, and hid myself.
V. I heard thy voice and I was afraid. I
considered thy works and I was terrified.
R2. And I covered my nakedness.
-----------When this has been said God comes wearing a
stole and enters Paradise looking around, as if he
was looking for Adam. But Adam and Eve are
hiding in a corner of Paradise, as if they are
conscious of their miserable state. God says:
GOD. Where are you, Adam?
Then both come forward and stand before God, not
completely upright, but somewhat bowed down and
very sad on account of their shame for their sins.
And Adam replies:
ADAM. My lord, Im here.
From your anger I hid in fear.
I had to take cover to conceal
My nakedness. What shame I feel!
GOD. Why have you gone so far astray?
390
Who lured you from the righteous way?
What did you do? And why this shame?

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

ADAM. How can I make amends and claim

Your pardon?
GOD.
Ysterday you had no cause
For shame. Now gloomy terror draws
395
Its shadow across your face. What weight
To bear! Youre in a sorry state.
ADAM. My shame was such, I hid from you.
GOD. To what is your fear and trembling due?
ADAM. My body feels such deep disgrace, 400
I cannot look you in the face.
GOD. Why did you disobey my law?
Did you think youd profit more?
You are my serf. I am your lord.
ADAM. I cant deny it.
GOD.
You ignored.
405
My express command. Although I made
You in my likeness, you betrayed
The trust I placed in you, my image.
Why this crime, this wanton damage?
You knew the rule that I had made
410
But deliberately you disobeyed.
You ate the fruit that I had said
You must not eat. You went ahead
And ate it. Did you want to be
My equal? Adam, what idiocy!
415
ADAM. The wife you gave me was the first
To eat the fruit. Her sin was worst.
She gave it me, and then I ate it.
All had been good. Then she upset it.
Thats how this evil was begun.
420
My wife is truly the guilty one.
GOD. You believed this woman more than me?
You ate the fruit without my leave?
Your punishment will be to toil
In fruitless labour on the soil.
425
Wherever you dig the earth and sow,
The seed shall die; no food shall grow.
All shall be barrenness and dearth,
When you cultivate the earth.
In hope of food youll scatter seeds,
430
But all youll see is thorns and weeds.
A curse upon you, when youre sowing.
Youll never see a harvest growing.
Youll labour and sweat in baking heat,
To win some tiny scrap to eat.
435
Day and night your life shall be
Consumed in tears and misery.
God then turns to Eve and says in a
threatening manner:
Youre an evil wife and woman, Eve,
What did you think you would achieve?
You treat my orders with contempt.
440
EVE. The serpents lies gained my consent.
GOD. He told you you could equal me.
Into the future can you see?
What mastery have you achieved
Over living things? You were deceived.
445
All that you had, you quickly lost,
So now youre wretched and downcast.
Did you gain anything? Not at all!

Now youll see what will befall

You for disobeying your lord.
A host of evils lie in store.
Youll bear your children in pain and grief
Theyll live in pain without relief.
Pain will be theirs at their first breath,
Painful their life, then painful death.
Your sin has brought calamity
On you and your posterity.
These sufferings will now begin.
Men will forever curse your sin.

450

455

Eve replies, saying:

EVE.My sin was terrible, that is now plain. 460
I ate the apple. Why did I not abstain?
For me and my descendants endless pain,
Eternal punishment for little gain.
If I was led to sin, it is no marvel.
That cunning serpent was the devil,
Not pure and innocent, but full of evil.
All must shun him to ensure survival.
I took the apple, what stupidity!
Against my lord it was a felony.
I have incurred his animosity.
What frightful reward for my credulity.

465

470

Then God threatens the serpent:

GOD. Serpent! I curse you for your role
In this. Henceforth Ill take control.
Down on the ground youll slide and creep
And this position always keep.
475
Dirt and dust shall be your food
Whether in meadow, field or wood.
Woman shall be your enemy
And view you with hostility.
Youll always try to bite her heel
480
But shell defend herself, and deal
A crushing blow upon your head.
Youll always look on her with dread.
Shell always seek to find a way
To take revenge for your foul play.
485
It was your folly to interfere
With her. It will always cost you dear.
From her descendants one shall come
To whose authority youll succumb.
God then expels them both from Paradise saying:
GOD. From Paradise you must both depart 490
Your mortal life on earth shall start.
Both go down to earth together.
Paradise is lost for ever.
Youve lost all rights to this abode.
Youre now outcasts, expelled for good.
495
My judgment allows for no appeals.
Go, seek your lodging somewhere else.
Once you had joy and prosperity
Now all shall be hunger and poverty,
All shall be labour and fatigue,
500
Pain every day and every week.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

Throughout your life youll weep and cry,

Then finally youll have to die.
When death has taken you, youll find
Yourselves in hell. No peace of mind
505
For souls in torment, bodies broken,
Captive, and utterly forsaken.
Satan will have you in his keeping.
No help will come for all your weeping.
Who can rescue you unless
510
I pity you in your distress?
----------------------------------[FIFTH RESPONSORY] The choir sings:
R1. In sudore vultus tui [vesceris panem tuum,
dixit Dominus as Adam: cum operatus fueris
terram, / non dabit fructus suos, sed spinas et
tribulos germinabit tibi.]
Versus. Pro eo quod obaudisti vocem uxoris tuae
plus quam me, maledicta terra in opere tuo.
R2. Non dabit fructus suos, sed spinas et tribulos
germinabit tibi.
R1. Through the sweat of thy brow shall thou
eat thy bread, said the Lord to Adam. When
thou hast ploughed the soil, / it shall not bring
forth fruit, but thorns and thistles shall it grow
for thee.
V. Because thou hast hearkened to the voice of
thy wife instead of mine, cursed shall be the earth
beneath thy spade.
R2. It shall not bring forth fruit, but thorns and
thistles shall it grow for thee.
-----------------------------------

V. The Cherubim and the flaming sword turn this

way and that to guard the tree of life.
R2. Take care lest he partake of the tree of life
and live for ever.
----------------------------------When it is finished, God goes back into the church.
Then Adam takes a spade and Eve a hoe. They start
to cultivate the soil, and sow corn. After they have
sowed they go and sit down at a little distance, as if
worn out with toil. They look tearfully at paradise,
and beat their breasts. Then the Devil comes and
plants thorns and thistles where they have
cultivated, and then goes away. Then Adam and
Eve return to their plot, and see the thorns and
thistles which have grown there. They prostrate
themselves on the ground with violent grief. Then
sitting down again,they beat their breasts and their
thighs, expressing their grief through their
gestures. Then Adam begins his lamentation:
ADAM.
What wretchedness! Alas! What evil hour!
Now I find my wicked sins devour
My soul. They have my body in their power. 520
No one will rescue me. All has turned sour.

Meanwhile an angel has entered, wearing an alb

and carrying a flaming sword in his hand. God
places him at the gate of Paradise and says to him:
GOD. Guard well the gate to Paradise;

Id hardly tasted all the joys therein,

When I trusted Satan, who led me into sin.
I hate myself. Its too late to save my skin.
I can only weep for all that might have been.

This cursed man shall never pass.

Neither Adam nor his wife
Shall ever taste the fruit of life.
Exclude them with your flaming sword
And let the gates be always barred.

Why was I stupid? I should have been more wary.

I followed Satan, forgetting the King of glory.
Now its too late. What use in feeling sorry?
My sin will be recorded as a warning story.

515

When Adam and Eve leave Paradise, they are

bowed down almost touching the ground, full of
grief and bewilderment. God points to them with
his hand, whilst turning his face towards Paradise.
----------------------------------[SIXTH RESPONSORY] The choir sings :
R1. Ecce Adam quasi unus ex nobis factus est,
sciens bonum et malum: / Videte ne forte sumat de
ligno vitae, et vivat in aeternum.
Versus. Cherubim et flammeum gladium atque
versatilem ad custodiendam viam lignum vitae.
R2. Videte ne forte sumat de ligno vitae, et vivat in
aeternum.
R1. Behold Adam is become one of us, knowing
both good and evil. / Take care lest he partake of
the tree of life and live for ever.

Adam gazes at paradise. He raises both hands

towards it, and bowing his head piously, he says:
O paradise! O dwelling place divine!
Was there ever a garden so fair and fine?
I am cast out. The fault was truly mine.
I am no longer part of Gods design.
525

He raises his hand to Eve who is placed a little

higher, and shaking his head in violent indignation,
he says:
O treacherous woman! Foul and evil person!
How quickly you destroyed me with your treason.
You took away from me both sense and reason.
I do repent, but now its out of season.
O wretched Eve whate made you so delighting
In evil? Why was the serpent so inviting?
Ive lost my life, and now must suffer biting
540
Pains of death. Your sin will be set in writing.
Dont you see the signs of our distress?
For us the earth refuses its largesse.
We scattered seed for corn without success. 544a
Now thistles grow and thats all we possess. 544b

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

This is the sign our troubles now have started, 545

But worse will come. We shall be dragged & carted
Down to hell. All hope has now departed.
The torment we suffer leaves us broken-hearted.
O wretched Eve, the harm has been immense
From your evil dowry, and your grave offence. 550
Youre no fit friend for any man of sense.
You lack all wisdom and intelligence.
This taint will go on forever, never halt.
All humans will bear the burden of your fault.
You sinned, and all shall suffer from your guilt,
Until through death the Saviours blood is split.
EVE. Adam, you hate me. Now I see you harden
Your heart for the sin I committed in the garden.
I sinned indeed, and now I bear the burden
559
Of knowing Im judged, & cannot hope for pardon.
Ive sinned against you and against Gods name.
For eternity my guilt will stay the same.
My fault is great, my sin a cause for shame.
How wretched I am, with only myself to blame.
Ive no excuse by which I could defend
Myself to God. No way that I could mend
The ill Ive done, except that I repent.
Forgive me God, for what I cant amend.

565

I am a wretched sinner, and Ive learned

How grave was the sin I committed when I spurned
Gods orders. Now my life is overturned
571
I want to die, and death is what Ive earned.
The evil serpent, that accursed snake,
Overcame my strength of will and made me take
The apple. Thinking it good, I sought to make 575
You eat as well. That was my grave mistake.
If Id observed God's laws, and shown true zeal
To serve my Maker, how good I now would feel!
Adam, you sinned, but its I who am the real
Culprit. The wounds we bear may never heal. 580
This sin of mine is not forgiven yet.
Our posterity will have to pay the debt.
The sweetness of the that fruit I cant forget,
But how I'm punished now for what I ate !
.
But none the less Gods mercy shines a light 585
Of hope for future freedom from this blight.
We may once more be righteous in God's sight
His power can free us from Hell's dreaded night.
Then comes the Devil with three or four demons
carrying iron chains and fetters, which they put
round the necks of Adam and Eve. Some push and
some pull them towards Hell. Others come to meet
them, rejoicing in their damnation. Some point at
them, then throw themselves on them and drag

10

them into Hell. A great smoke rises and there are

noisy rejoicings and a clattering of pots and pans
so that it can be heard outside. After a time the
demons come out and run about but others stay in
Hell.
======================
[CAIN AND ABEL] Then come Cain and Abel.
Cain wears red garments and Abel wears white,
and they cultivate the ground that has bee
prepared. And when they have rested a bit from
their labours, Abel speaks in a smiling and friendly
manner to Cain, his brother, and says:
ABEL. Brother Cain, we are kinsmen, I believe.
From Adam, the first man, we did receive 590
Our lives, and also from our mother Eve.
To fulfil Gods plan is what we must achieve.
God is our master. Let us always bow
To him, and only do what he allows.
594
Our parents lost his love ; they broke their vows.
Let there be brotherly love between us now.
Let us serve God, and never give up trying
To please him well. We must refuse him nothing.
If God always sees us both complying
With his will, well have no fear of dying. 600
We must give him tithes, and everything thats due,
Offerings, first fruits, and sacrifices too.
If we try to hide things from his view,
Instead of Gods grace, well merit hell in lieu.
Lets love each other. Let us never forsake 605
Our trust and friendship. What is there to break
Our bonds? What cause could ever make
Us quarrel? The whole wide world is ours to take.
CAIN. Brother Abel, there is an alternative
To your fine preaching about the way to live. 610
If youre not a bit acquisitive,
You will end up with nothing left to give.
With all this giving I do not agree,
But you can give and show your charity.
Ill do what I like with my own property,
615
If I do wrong, you wont be damned for me!
We have to love ourselves. Thats natures rule.
But let our friendship never fade or cool.
Whoever starts a quarrel is a fool.
The retribution will be harsh and cruel.
620
Abel speaks again to his brother Cain, who this
time replies more gently than before. Abel says:
ABEL. Cain, my good brother, listen here.
CAIN. What is it then? Speak loud and clear.
ABEL. Its good advice.
CAIN.
That suits me well.
ABEL. Promise you never will rebel
Against our God. You mustnt show
625
The sin of pride.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

CAIN
Let it be so.
ABEL. Trust my advice, lets both prepare
To offer God sacrifice and prayer.
If we are at peace with him,
Well never stray and never sin.
630
Well never feel gloomy or downcast.
We must earn his love and hold it fast.
Upon an altar let us place
An offering pleasing to his face.
My brother, both of us must pray
635
For Gods protection night and day.
Then Cain replies as if Abels advice pleases him:
CAIN. Brother Abel, good words youve spoken,
Really quite a pleasing sermon!
All your preaching I will heed.
We must make offerings, thats agreed.
640
What will you offer?
ABEL.
Me? A lamb.
The best and finest one I can.
The very best that I possess.
God does not merit any less.
And Ill offer incense too.
645
That is my plan. Thats what Ill do.
What will you offer?
CAIN.
Corn and wheat,
Just what the Lord gave me to eat.
ABEL. Youll choose the best?
CAIN.
No, thats not right.
650
Ill eat the best myself tonight.
ABEL. Youre cheating God, he wont be pleased.
CAIN. Abel, dont fret. Im quite at ease.
ABEL. Cain, you are rich. Youve many beasts.
CAIN. Thats true.
ABEL.
Well count them. Give at least
A tenth of them to God and prove
655
Your loyal service and your love.
Give generously, and when youve made
Your offering, youll be well repaid.
Will you do it?
CAIN.
Youre insane!
659a
Ive got ten sheep. What would I gain
659a
If I kill one? Id then have nine!
660
You do your thing, Ill do mine.
Lets offer separately, you and me.
Each do his own.
ABEL.
Well, I agree.
They go to two large stones which are placed ready
for this purpose. The stones are set apart from each
other so that when God enters, Abels stone is on
his right and Cains is on his left. Abel offers a
lamb and incense from which he makes smoke rise
up. Cain offers a sheaf of corn. Then God appears
and blesses Abels sacrifice [munera] but rejects
Cains. After the sacrifice Cain looks angrily at
Abel. When they have finished their sacrifices, each
returns to his place. Then Cain comes to Abel and
cunningly seeks to lead him away to a remote place
so that he can kill him. He says:
CAIN. Brother Abel, lets take a walk.

11

ABEL. What for?

CAIN.
So we can have a talk, 665
Take a rest, look at our fields,
See our crops, and what they yield.
A country walk will do us good.
So come with me, you really should.
ABEL. Ill come along. Just lead the way. 670
CAIN. Its good you agree with what I say.
ABEL. You are my elder brother , so
Where you lead, thats where Ill go.
CAIN. No you go first, I am inclined
To linger and come along behind.
675
They both go to a remote and secret place, where
Cain rushes furiously on Abel, wanting to kill him
and says:
CAIN. Abel, youre dead.
ABEL.
My brother, why?
CAIN. I want revenge, youll have to die.
ABEL. Have I done wrong?
CAIN.
Youve been a traitor
To your brother. No crime is greater.
ABEL. I am no traitor.
CAIN.
Do you deny it?
680
ABEL. Youre wrong even to imply it.
CAIN. Youve been a traitor.
ABEL.
How is this so?
CAIN. Just think a bit.
ABEL.
I just dont know.
CAIN. Ill prove it to you in a bit.
ABEL. There cant be any proof of it.
685
CAIN. Ive got the proof.
ABEL.
O God, help me!
CAIN. Ill kill you here.
ABEL.
But God will see.
Then Cain raises his right hand and threatens him,
saying:
CAIN. This will bring you your reward.
ABEL. All my trust is in the Lord.
CAIN. He cannot stop me from this killing. 690
ABEL. He can prevent it, if hes willing.
CAIN. Brother, youll die, and thats for sure.
ABEL. I trust in God, I cant do more.
CAIN. You want to hear why you have to die?
ABEL. Tell me.
CAIN.
Yes, Ill tell you why.
695
You have become Gods favourite boy.
I see that God now takes no joy
In my offerings. So you have to pay
The price. There is no other way.
Im going to kill you. Youll be found
700
All stretched out dead upon the ground.
ABEL. It is a sin to shed my blood
And I shall be avenged by God.
I did you no wrong, God knows that's true.
I never caused strife between him and you. 705
Indeed I told you what must be done,
So you and he could be at one.
I said you owe to God such things
As tithes, first fruits and offerings.

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

That's how our Lord can be placated.

710
You failed, so youre angry and frustrated.
God does not lie. Who serves the Lord
Is guaranteed a just reward.
CAIN. Thats too much talk. Youre going to die.
ABEL. But why these threats, my brother, why?
715
I trusted you just like you asked.
CAIN. The time for trusting me is past.
Ill kill you now, just as Ive said.
ABEL. May God show mercy when Im dead.
Then Abel genuflects towards the east. He has a pot
hidden in his garments which Cain strikes as if
killing Abel. Then Abel lies down as dead.
-------------------[SEVENTH RESPONSORY] The choir sings :
R1. Ubi est Abel frater tuus? [dixit Dominus ad
Cain, nescio domine numquid custos fratris mei
sum ego? Et dixit as eum: quid fecisti? / Ecce vox
sanguinis fratris tui Abel clamat ad me de terra.
Versus. Maledictus eris super terram, quae aperuit
os suum, et suscepit sanguinem fratris tui de manu
tua.
R2. Ecce vox sanguinis fratris tui Abel clamat ad
me de terra.]
R1. Where is Abel thy brother? said the Lord to
Cain. I know not, Lord, am I my brothers
keeper? And he said to him: what hast thou
done? / Behold the voice of thy brothers blood
crieth unto me from the ground.
V. And thou art cursed from the earth which hath
opened her mouth to receive thy brothers blood.
R2. Behold the voice of thy brothers blood
crieth unto me from the ground.
------------------Meanwhile God comes from the church to Cain,
and when the choir has finished the responsory he
speaks to him angrily:
GOD. where is Abel? Wheres your brother? 720
Tell me Cain. Are you another
Rebel? Will you cause me strife?
Where is Abel? Is he alive?
CAIN. How should I know? Abel may roam
Around his fields, or stay at home.
725
Am I his guardian? Am I to be
My brothers keeper? Is that for me?
GOD. Where is Abel? What have you done?
I know youve killed my beloved son.
His blood cries vengeance for the deed.
730
I heard his cries. I must pay heed.
Your crime is great. It is the worst
Of crimes, so Cain, you shall be cursed.
You shall be cursed for all your days.
735
This is the price the murderer pays.
But no one shall kill you. Youll always be
Condemned to endless misery.
No rescue for you. All know well
They must not end your living hell.
740
You killed your brother who trusted me.

12

You shall repent for all eternity.

Then God goes into the church. Demons come and
lead Cain to Hell beating him with many blows. But
they lead Abel gently.
==================
[PROPHETS] [The scene of the prophets starts in the MS
with the stage direction Tunc erunt parati prophete in loco
secreto etc followed by Legatur in choro lectio: Vos, inquam,
convenio, O Judaei (which is the incipit of ch XI of the
pseudo-Augustinian, Sermon against Jews, pagans and Arians
concerning the Creed. After this there are further stage
directions for calling each prophet by name, and then the
entrance of Abraham.
Noomen p. 64, gives the Latin text of all ch. XI of the pseudoAugustinian Sermon against Jews etc. Muir translates the
stage directions and the incipit as in the MS, but does not give
an English version of the full text of Ch XI .
After the incipit Vos, inquam, convenio, O Judaei I have
given the full text of Ch XI in English adapted from the
University of Florida digital library, http://ufdc.ufl.edu .
In the MS each prophet speaks a Latin prophecy followed by
rhyming verses in French. I have given the text of the Latin
followed by English in bold. Then the prophets speak in rhyming
French which I have translated into English rhyming couplets as
usual. .

----------------The prophets must be ready in a hidden place as is

suitable for each of them. Then the reading takes
place in the choir: Vos, inquam, convenio, O Judaei
You, I say, do I challenge, O Jews, who even
unto this present day deny the son of God. Are
these not your own words, uttered at that time
when you saw Him doing miracles. You tempted
Him, saying: 'How long dost thou hold our souls
in suspense? If thou be the Christ, tell us
plainly.' But He sent you to consider his
miracles saying: ' The works that I do bear
witness of me, so that witness might be borne of
Christ, not by words , but by deeds. But you do
not acknowledge the Saviour who works
Salvation in the midst of your land, but rather
you add to your wickedness by saying Thou
givest testimony of thyself, thy testimony is not
true. You transgressors of the Law, give heed
to your own Law. You seek testimony
concerning Christ; in your Law it is written
that the testimony of two men is true. Let there
now come forth from your Law, not merely two,
but many witnesses of Christ, and let these
confound those that are hearers of the Law, but
not doers thereof.
The prophets are called by name. When they enter,
they come in proper order, and speak their
prophecies loudly and clearly.
-------------Abraham comes in first. He is an old man with a
long beard, wearing flowing robes. He sits on a
stool and begins his prophecy in a fairly loud
voice:

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

ABRAHAM. Possidebit semen tuum portas

inimicorum tuorum, et in semine benedicentur
omnes gentes.
Thy seed shall possess the gate of thy enemies,
and in thy seed shall all the nations be blessed.
I'm Abraham, that is my name.
All must hear what I proclaim.
Those who place their hope in God
Must keep their faith and trust his word.
745
I know that God will always be
With those who trust him. He tested me
And I obeyed . I did fulfill
The stern commandment of his will.
I sought to kill my only son
750
For him. Before the deed was done
God stopped me. But this did suffice
For God to approve my sacrifice.
God promised me (he tells no lies)
That from my line there will arise
755
One who will conquer all God's foes,
A man of power who will impose
His rule on evil's citadel;
A man whose strength will conquer hell.
Born of my line, he will release
760
Mankind from sin, our dread disease.
He'll save the world, and he will free
Adam from limbo and misery.
People born from every nation
Will at last achieve salvation.
765
After this has been said, there is a short pause.
Then the demons come and lead Abraham down to
hell.
-----------------Next Moses comes with a rod in his right hand and
the tablets of the law in his left. After he has sat
down, he speaks his prophecy:
MOSES. Prophetam suscitabit Deus de fratribus
vestris, tamquam me ipsum audietis.
God will raise up a prophet from your brothers,
you will hear him even as if you hear me.
From God I bring you this good news;
Its from our Law and from the Jews.
God will raise a man on high,
A prophet who will prophesy.
He's greater than me. This holy man
770
Knows all the secrets of God's plan.
Then Moses is led away by the devil into hell and
similarly all the other prophets.
--------------Next comes Aaron dressed as a bishop, carrying a
rod with flowers and fruit. He sits down and says
[first quatrain in Latin, next two in French]:
AARON. Hec est virga gignens florem
Qui salutis dat odorem.
Huius virge dulcis fructus
Nostre morte terget luctus.
This rod is bursting forth with flower

13

Which gives the scent of our salvation.

Its fruit is sweet. It has the power
To free us from death's lamentation.
This rod I hold is marvellous.
It brings forth flower and fruit for us,
From my lineage a rod will come
Beneath which Satan will succumb.
This man will come in human form
775
But from no man will he be born
The fruit of salvation he will be
Releasing Adam from slavery. [Exit Aaron]
---------------Next comes David, wearing royal robes and a
crown. He says:
DAVID. Veritas de terra orta est et justicia de celo
prospexit. Etenim Dominus dabit benignitatem et
terra nostra dabit fructum suum.
Truth has sprung from the earth, and justice
has looked down from heaven. Indeed, the Lord
shall give his blessing, and our land shall
produce its fruits.
From the earth Truth will arise
And justice pour down from the skies. 780
God will bless us. Earth will give
The grain we need to eat and live.
This grain will make the bread that saves,
And break the chain which keeps us slaves.
Our Lord will rule. All wars will cease. 785
And all the world shall live in peace. [Exit David]
---------------Next Solomon comes, dressed like David, but
looking younger. He sits and says:
SOLOMON. Cum essetis ministri regni Dei non
recte judicastis neque custodistis legem justicie
neque secundum voluntatem Dei ambulastis. Et
cito apparebit vobis quoniam iudicium durissimum
in his qui presunt fiet, exiguo enim conceditur
misericordia.
You have been ministers of his kingdom, but
you have not judged aright, nor kept the law,
nor walked after the counsel of God. He will
come suddenly upon you, because the harshest
judgment shall come upon those in high places,
whilst mercy shall be shown to the lowly.
Jews! God gave his law to you
But to God you were not true.
He made you guards of his domain.
You were to bring about God's reign,
But you rebelled against God's way.
And all your justice went astray.
You disobeyed God's own command
Your evil-doing plagued the land.
Your deeds shall be declared to all;
On you great punishments will fall.
The powerful shall come crashing down

790

795

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

Amidst destruction all around.

But God will show his mercy to
The lowly. Joy will be their due.
800
All prophecies shall be fulfilled,
When God's own son for us is killed.
God's chosen people will betray
The son of God. They'll throw away
All justice, and beyond belief
805
They'll crucify him like a thief.
So theyll forfeit their honoured place,
Because their acts caused such disgrace.
Down from great heights theyll fall so low,
Theyll tremble at this fateful blow.
810
But Adam will be rescued then,
His soul made clean of sin again. [Exit Solomon]
-----------------Then comes Balaam, an old man dressed in flowing
garments, seated on an ass. He comes to the centre
and the ass speaks his prophecy.
BALAAMS ASS. Orietur stella ex Jacob et
consurget virga de Israel, et percusciet duces Moab,
vastabitque omnes filios Seth,
There shall come from Jacob a star and a
sceptre shall rise from Israel, and smite the
leaders of Moab and destroy all the sons of Seth.
Out of Jacob a star will rise,
Shining its light across the skies.
And a leader will appear
815
To fill Moab with dread and fear.
He will humble Moabs pride
Christ in Israel will preside.
Christ will be our guiding star,
Shining on all, both near and far.
820
His faithful flock hell steer and guide
Scattering his enemies on each side. [Exit Balaam]
------------------- Then comes Daniel, youthful in aspect, but wearing
the clothes of an old man. When he has sat down he
speaks hi prophecy pointing to those to whom he is
speaking:
DANIEL.Cum venerit sanctus sanctorum cessabit
unctio vestra.
When the most holy one shall come, he will
make an end of your election.
To Jews I speak. Hear what I say.
You were false to God in every way.
When the holiest one shall come,
825
Crushed by misfortune youll succumb.
You shall be chosen ones no more.
Youve no defence against Gods law.
The holy one is Christ by whom
All are given life and saved from doom.
830
Hell come on earth to save his people,
But you shall cause him strife and trouble.
You will cause his suffering,
And pay the price for your slandering.
Then priest and king and holy law
835
Will leave your race for evermore. [Exit Daniel]

14

--------------------Then comes Habakkuk, an old man. Sitting down he

begins his prophecy, pointing up to the church
and showing fear and wonder. He says:
HABAKKUK. Domine audivi auditum tuum et
timui, consideravi opera tua et expavi. In medio
duum animalium cognosceris.
O Lord, I have heard thy speech and was
afraid. I gazed upon thy works and trembled.
Thou shalt be made known between two beasts.
Ive news from God to tell mankind
Which much disturbs my peace of mind.
As I contemplate this sight,
I am alarmed. My heart takes fright.
840
Two animals, and in between
Behold this man. What things Ive seen!
And greater marvels to amaze:
A star will shine to mark the place
Wherein the child is to be found,
845
A cave with shepherds all around,
A rocky cave where beasts will feed,
And there the shining star will lead
Three kings to bow in admiration
Offering gifts and adoration. [Exit Habakkuk] 850
-----------------Then Jeremiah enters, carrying a scroll, and
saying:
JEREMIAH. Audite verbum Domini, omnis Judah,
qui ingredimini per portas has ut adoretis Deum!
Hear the word of the lord, all ye of Judah, who
enter these doors to worship the Lord.
Then he points to the doors of the church.
Hec dicit Dominus Deus exercituum, Deus Israel.
Bonas facite vias vestras et studia vestra, et
habitabo vobiscum in loco isto.
Thus says the lord of hosts, the God of Israel:
amend your ways and your doings, and I shall
dwell with you in this place.
Listen and hear Gods holy word,
All you, the people he preferred,
The line of Judahs generation
All members of Gods chosen nation.
Would you enter through this door
855
And worship God for evermore?
The God of Israel on high
Calls on his people to draw nigh.
This is the path you must pursue:
Make good the ways, plough straight and true. 860
Let your hearts be cleansed of sin,
Lest evil finds its way within.
Be virtuous in all your dealings,
Cast away all evil feelings.
If yu do ths, the Lord will come
865
To dwell with you and make his home.
The son of Gods great majesty

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

Will come to earth for all to see.

Gods son, both human and divine
Will dwell with men. Its Gods design.
870
Hell die so men can be forgiven,
And rescue Adam from his prison. [Exit Jeremiah]
--------------Then comes Isaiah carrying a book, and wearing a
great cloak. He speaks his prophecy:

Surpasses human understanding.

Nothing so wondrous has been related
Since the world was first created.

ISAIAH. Egredietur virga de radice Jesse et flos de

radice eius ascendet, et requiescet super eum
spiritus Domini.
There shall come forth a rod from the stem of
Jesse and a branch shall grow out of his roots;
and the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him.
Now I tell you marvellous things:
From Jesses holy race there springs
A branch which shall put forth a flower
875
Which shines with majesty and power.
The holy spirit shall enclose
This flower with tranquil, calm repose.
A man comes out of the synagogue disputing with
Isaiah and says:

The time is close. We soon shall see

Fulfilment of this prophecy.
A virgin will conceive and bear
A son. The time for this is near.
The child will be called Emmanuel.
This message comes from Gabriel.
Mary will be the maidens name,
Through her salvation is proclaimed.
Jesus, the source of our salvation,
Will rescue Adam from damnation,
Restore him to his former heights
Exchanging hell for paradise.
God told me this. All shall come true
This is a source of hope for you.
[Exit Isaiah and the Jew]

JEW. Come, lord Isaiah, come, tell me

Is this fiction or prophecy?
880
Where is it written? I want to look
If what you say comes from a book.
Is it true or are you dreaming?
It sounds more like a piece of scheming?
ISAIAH. It is the truth, its not a fiction.
885
JEW. That doesnt carry much conviction.
ISAIAH. Its true. It is a prophecy.
JEW. In what book?
ISAIAH.
Its Gods decree.
I saw it written bold and clear.
JEW. How so?
ISAIAH.
God made these words appear. 890
JEW. You are a fool, thats what I say.
Your brain is old, youre all astray,
A doddering fool, whos lost the plot.
Lets see how much sense youve got.
The Jew holds out his hand to Isaiah.
Look heres my hand. Look close and say, 895
Am I in health or sick today?
ISAIAH. Youre sick, and you can rest assured
Your sickness never will be cured.
JEW. Im sick?
ISAIAH.
Yes, sick with hateful error.
JEW. When shall I be cured then?
ISAIAH.
Never.
900
JEW. Well start your prophecy again.
ISAIAH. What I predict, God has ordained.
JEW. We need to hear you speak once more.
Tell us of the branch you saw,
And of the flower that will come forth.
905
Master, well trust your words henceforth.
Henceforth it will be our concern
To hear you teach what we must learn.
ISAIAH. The prophecy that youre demanding

15

910

ISAIAH. Ecce virgo concipiet in utero et pariet

filium et vocabitur nomen eius Emmanuel.
Behold a virgin shall conceive in the womb and
bear a son, and shall call his name Emmanuel.

915

920

925

----------------Then comes Nebuchadnezzar, dressed as a king:

NEBUCHADNEZZAR. Nonne misimus tres
pueros in fornace ligatos?
Did we not put three boys, bound, into the
furnace?
The ministers reply:
MINISTERS. Vere, rex.
True, O king.
NEBUCHADNEZZAR. Ecce video quattuor viros
solutos deambulantes in medio ignis, et corrupcio
nulla est in eis, et aspectus quarti similis est filio
Dei.
Behold, I see four men, free and walking in the
midst of the fire. They are not harmed. And the
fourth is like the Son of God.
Now hear this wonder to behold,
==============================
[The manuscript ends abruptly at this point. What
follows is composed by the translator in the style
and spirit of the original as a conclusion for the
play.]
[EIGHTH RESPONSORY] The choir sings:
R1 John saw Jesus coming toward him, and
said, / Behold! The Lamb of God who takes
away the sins of the world! Jn 1.29.
V. So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the
sins of many. Heb 9. 28

ADAM

translated by David Maskell Worcester Chapel version

R2 Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away

the sins of the world!
V. And he will appear a second time / to bring
salvation to those who are waiting for him. Heb
9.28
R2 Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away
the sins of the world!

[Enter GOD and the DEVIL.]

GOD.
The world is in a sorry state.
Its full of sin and full of hate.
Adam started this decline.
His sin frustrated my design.
Cains shocking murder of his brother
Shows how men can hate each other.
Yet through my prophets I foretold
I would show mercy to the world.
To put things right it will suffice
To have a human sacrifice.
My son will certainly be willing.
[to the DEVIL]
Will you assist me in the killing?
I cast you out, but now I see
That you can be of use to me.
DEVIL. A human sacrifice, you say?
GOD. I think it is the only way.
The war against evil will be won
If I sacrifice my son.
DEVIL. Your son must die? That seems absurd.
GOD. It can be done if I give the word.
DEVIL. The very thought is quite horrendous.
GOD. But wasnt Adams sin tremendous?
DEVIL. It seems a heavy price to pay.
GOD. Just think how men will bless the day
When my son is born to save mankind.
DEVIL. Indeed. But first youll have to find
A mother for your son to be.
GOD. That's not impossible for me.
DEVIL. But do you want it? Are you sure?
GOD. Ill choose a virgin, young and pure,
Who will be glad to do my will.
DEVIL. And how do you intend to kill
Your son?
GOD
I'll have him crucified.
That way I shall be satisfied.
DEVIL. Such death would be excruciating.
GOD. That's what I am contemplating.
It all goes back to your temptation
Of Eve and Adam. Their damnation
Was your fault, so nows the time
To make amends and purge that crime.

Lets have reconciliation.

I need you now for mans salvation.
I want you to cooperate,
Go down to earth and stir up hate.
A man called Judas might be willing
To play a key part in this killing.
And Ill need men to crucify
My son.
DEVIL. But must he really die?
GOD. Its necessary for salvation.
But, by way of compensation
I can raise him from the dead.
I have the power.
DEVIL.
That is well said.
GOD. My son will die, then visit Hell
Where you and all your demons dwell.
From your prison he will lead
Adam and Eve. They will be freed.
The prophets too, he will release.
Nor will these wonders ever cease.
Hell rise again, sit at my side
Fulfilling what has been prophesied.
Upon my throne he will be seated.
He'll conquer sin. You'll be defeated.
For Adam's sin my son will pay
I can't see any other way.
DEVIL. To carry out this grand design,
Yu play yur part. 'll play mne.
GOD. I'll send some angels down to earth
Who will proclaim the Saviour's birth
[The choir sings a Christmas carol]
END

16