"But what is strength without a double share / Of wisdom?" (ln 53-4)
Samson is caught between many things. He has great strength but poor judgment. His "intimate impulse" (in response to patt-man) is possibly part prophetic, part hormonal. He loves his own people but leaves their protection and ventures as an individual into his enemies' circle (885ff). No one would doubt his "manliness" yet he blames himself for being "effeminate" (562). He is attracted to, and hates his attraction to Dalila (and consequently hates Dalila). He wants to demonstrate the great power of God, yet "walks obscure" like those who do not believe in God (295-6). His divided torment comprehends him entirely.
The play itself seems to resonate with this tension of opposites. Dagon vs God of Israel, oppressed vs oppressor, male vs female, love vs hate, purity vs defilement, and so on. With such a warring premise, could it end otherwise than great destruction? Also, is the God of Israel proven by the ending? Or has said God only stooped to the power struggle of pagans, and incidentally won?
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