John Milton | Samson Agonistes Explained — Tragedy, Blindness, Freedom & Heroic Suffering

Описание: Samson Agonistes (1671) is John Milton’s powerful tragic drama written in the style of ancient Greek tragedy. It retells the biblical story of Samson — blind, imprisoned, betrayed by Dalila, and struggling between despair and divine mission. As Milton himself was blind and politically defeated at the time, the work reflects his own spiritual battle.

🎥 This video (created using Google NotebookLM) gives a clear, exam-friendly explanation of the plot, characters, themes, and Milton’s tragic vision — perfect for UGC NET, MA English, TGT/PGT, and all competitive exams.


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📘 What the Work Is About

Milton presents Samson in his final hours:
blind, humiliated, enslaved by the Philistines, yet destined to perform one last act of divine vengeance.

The drama explores faith, suffering, redemption, political oppression, and personal responsibility — framed in classical tragic form.


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🎭 Plot Summary (Simple & Exam-Focused)

⭐ 1. Samson in Prison

Samson sits blind and defeated, reflecting on:

his great physical strength

his fall through pride

his betrayal by Dalila

his failure towards God


⭐ 2. Visits of Temptation

Different characters come to test and provoke him:

🔹 Manoa (his father) — hopes to ransom Samson
🔹 Dalila — defends her betrayal; Samson rejects her
🔹 Harapha — a Philistine giant who mocks Samson

Each encounter tests Samson’s patience, humility, and faith.

⭐ 3. Inner Transformation

Samson gradually moves from: despair → repentance → renewed spiritual strength.

He realises his calling is not over.

⭐ 4. The Final Act

Samson is taken to the Philistine festival.

There he pulls down the pillars of the temple, destroying his enemies and himself — a tragic yet heroic fulfillment of divine will.

⭐ 5. Messenger Speech

A messenger describes Samson’s final act offstage (Greek style).
Manoa ends the drama with grief, pride, and hope of Samson’s glory.