Student Question
In The Bronze Bow, how does Samson's celebration of Daniel's return bother him?
Quick answer:
Samson's celebration of Daniel's return bothers Daniel because it highlights his discomfort with receiving special attention. After being injured, Daniel is carried by Samson back to the cave and is cared for with special treatment, such as being fed the best meat and given wine, which demonstrates Samson's loyalty. Despite this care, Daniel, who values self-reliance and independence, likely feels uneasy being the center of attention and receiving preferential treatment.
In Chapter 8, Daniel returns to the mountain after suffering a serious injury inflicted by a Roman soldier. Samson is patiently waiting for Daniel when he spots him struggling to climb a steep hill. Samson walks down the mountain and carries Daniel back to the cave. Samson does not allow Daniel to stand on his feet for three days so that he can rest. Speare describes Samson as a "vast shadow" that shelters Daniel. Samson goes out his way to bring Daniel water mixed with wine and takes the choicest bits of meat to feed him. Samson's attitude towards Daniel demonstrates his loyalty to him, and the rest of Rosh's men seem relieved that Daniel is back. Although Speare does not directly comment on Daniel's feelings concerning Samson's special treatment, one can imagine that Daniel does not like the attention. Daniel is a self-reliant, independent individual. He does not enjoy being the center of attention and does not appreciate the fact that he receives special treatment.
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