Samson Agonistes Mortality Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Line number)

Quote #4

SAMSON: This one prayer yet remains, might I be heard, no long petition, speedy death, the close of all my miseries and the balm (649-651).

We're a little uneasy about Samson praying for death, but at least we know that he's comfortable with his own mortality. Or something. Is it right to pray for death?

Quote #5

SAMSON: Not for thy life, lest fierce remembrance wake my sudden rage to tear thee joint by joint (953-954)

Samson usually directs his thoughts of death towards himself, but here they get pretty violent towards Dalila. No wonder she's been so reluctant to come visit.

Quote #6

SAMSON: But come what will, my deadliest foe will prove my speediest friend, by death to rid me hence (1263-1265)

When death is something you actually value, language itself gets all topsy-turvy. Friends and foes are all mixed up.