The agon begins.
The servant sent to fetch the stranger (Dionysus in disguise as a mortal) brings him to Pentheus, who questions him on his lineage, the parentage of Dionysus, and the rites of Dionysus. The stranger is evasive, saying the rites are mysteries known only to initiates. Baiting continues on both sides, with Pentheus saying it's not that nighttime is more solemn, as the stranger argues, but that it more suitable for sexual misconduct. The stranger replies, sensibly, that corruption is just as likely during the day. They discuss punishment. The stranger gives Pentheus some chances to amend his ways, but Pentheus is set on sacrilege.
Stasimon 2 (519-75)
The chorus compares Pentheus with the giants who fought the Olympian gods -- ultimately, unsuccessfully. They seek out the god.
The stranger tells his Asian followers not to be afraid just because the palace is falling. He describes how he made Pentheus see things that weren't real.
