In which the Chorus meditates upon the burdens and sufferings ordained by divine providence, particularly upon those chosen for great purposes, lamenting their frequent descent into adversity, before observing the approach of Dalila, arrayed in splendour and bearing tokens of penitence. And Samson, steeped in mistrust and recalling her past treacheries, rebuffs her attempts at reconciliation, foreseeing the perils that forgiveful hearts may encounter when deceived by false repentance.

In which the fallen Champion, lamenting his lost strength and blindness, confesses the deep anguish and despair that torment both his body and soul despite his once miraculous temperance and divine favour. His discourse with a compassionate friend reveals a heart burdened with doubts of mercy and a fervent wish for swift release from unceasing misery, reflecting the sombre weight of forsaken glory and unrelenting pain.

In which the fallen Samson confesses his grievous errors and mourns the dishonour brought upon his God through his weakened faith and ill counsel, expressing a sombre hope for divine vindication against idolatry. The discourse between him, his Father, and the Chorus reveals a poignant struggle between penitence and despair, as they contemplate fate, forgiveness, and the frailty of mortal resolve.

In which the once-mighty Samson lies captive and blind, lamenting the grievous consequences of his own faltering faith and folly that led to his downfall, while a visiting man reflects mournfully on the frailty of mortal strength and the irony of divine gifts turned to sorrow. The discourse unfolds amid sorrowful recognition of past glories now faded, and the heavy shame cast upon Samson and his house by his enemies’ festal blasphemy.

In which the valiant Samson recounts the impassioned choices of his heart and the grievous consequences thereof, lamenting both the failure of Israel’s leaders to recognise divine providence and the stubborn ingratitude of his countrymen. Together with his Chorus, he reflects upon the justice of God’s ways and the intricate troubles of mortal understanding, as well as the heavy burdens attendant on deliverance and the frailty of human counsel.

In which the Chorus beholds Samson in a forlorn and dispirited state, lamenting the tragic shift from his former heroic might and renown to a grievous captivity compounded by blindness and despair. They approach with gentle sympathy and counsel, as Samson reflects on the frailty of friendship, the torment of his shame, and the folly of trusting deceitful love, while the Chorus advises moderation in self-reproach and wonders at the causes of his downfall.

In which Samson, confined and blind, muses solemnly upon his grievous condition, reflecting on the bitter contrast between his once-godlike strength and present imprisonment, while wrestling with thoughts of destiny, loss, and the burden of his own failings. In this somber solitude before the prison in Gaza, he seeks respite from the noisy festivities of his captors, grappling with the darkness that now envelops both his body and soul.

In which the nature and dignity of Tragedy are thoughtfully expounded, affirming its moral and cathartic purpose through the stirring of pity and fear, whilst acknowledging the ancient models and the careful structure observed in this dramatic poem. The argument presented introduces the grievous plight of Samson, depicting his captivity and blindness, the solace sought in companionship, and the solemn events culminating on a day set aside by his foes in thanksgiving.

In which the struggle betwixt outward conformity and the liberty of truth is pondered, emphasising the peril of rigid uniformity and the virtue of tolerating diverse Christian opinions that need not sunder the unity of spirit. The discourse moves to lament the harsh suppression of new voices in reformation, urging patient debate and warning against the perils of licensing, which risks silencing truth and favouring monopolistic interests under the guise of order.

In which the author reflects upon the dangers of ecclesiastical licensing that stifles the free pursuit of truth and learning among clergy and laity alike, warning against an imposed uniformity that hinders the rich diversity of inquiry and opinion vital to spiritual and intellectual growth. He exhorts the English nation, blessed with liberty and a spirited intellect, to cherish their freedom to know, utter, and argue according to conscience, fostering an open and patient discourse that serves the continued reformation and illumination of the Church.