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Samson Agonistes (Magill Book Reviews)

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Because Milton was blind when SAMSON AGONISTES was published, the drama is sometimes interpreted biographically by critics who perceive Samson as a spokesman for Milton’s own feelings. The work, however, may have been composed as early as 1646-1648 and revised much later for publication.

As Milton indicates in the preface, this dramatic poem was never intended for performance. The first great “closet drama” in English, SAMSON AGONISTES questions the justice of God’s treatment of Samson and by extension his treatment of all men.

Prior to the play’s action, which...

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