Samson, once a formidable Hebrew hero, finds himself blinded and imprisoned by the Philistines. Initially wallowing in despair and self-reproach for his perceived betrayal of God, Samson gradually regains his confidence. This transformation is catalyzed by his successful resistance to the temptations posed by Dalila and the provocations of Harapha. Samson's journey from physical to spiritual awakening culminates in his decision to attend the Philistines' feast for their god, Dagon. There, he fulfills a divine mission, dismantling the hall upon the Philistines and himself, thus regaining his dignity and fulfilling his role as a servant of God. His resolve to redeem himself is unwavering, resisting the allure of comfort offered by Manoa and the deceptive entreaties of Dalila.

Dalila is a complex figure, portrayed as a femme fatale yet driven by motives she claims are patriotic. She pleads with Samson for forgiveness, presenting her past betrayal as a misguided effort to protect her people and gods. Despite her assertions of remorse and attempts at reconciliation, her sincerity remains doubtful. Samson, perceiving her true intentions, rejects her advances. Angered by his resistance, Dalila retreats to console herself with the idea that her actions will be celebrated by her fellow countrymen, leaving Samson untouched by her efforts to sway him.

Manoa, Samson's elderly father, is portrayed as compassionate and devoted, eager to ransom his son and care for him despite his blindness. He imagines a future where Samson lives a dependent yet peaceful life under his care. However, Samson's determination for autonomy leads him to reject this offer, favoring a path of personal redemption over comfortable dependence. Despite mourning Samson's eventual death, Manoa finds solace in the heroism and nobility of his son’s final acts.

Harapha, a boastful Philistine warrior, initially taunts Samson, expressing regret at not having faced him in his prime. Confident in his own prowess, he challenges Samson, only to retreat when he realizes that Samson's spirit and strength have been revitalized. Unlike Dalila and Manoa, Harapha offers no temptation of comfort or reconciliation. Instead, his confrontation with Samson highlights the latter's restored resolve and readiness to defend his honor and his God.

A Chorus of Hebrew elders functions as sympathetic observers, offering commentary and reflecting on the unfolding events. These elders, through their perspective, underscore the themes of redemption and divine duty that permeate Samson's journey.