Samson Agonistes
Written by John Milton
Narrated by Iain Glen, David de Keyser, Samantha Bond and
3.5/5
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About this audiobook
Samson Agonistes, the "dramatic poem" by John Milton, was published in 1671, three years before the poet's death. Written in the form of a Greek tragedy, with the Chorus commenting on the action, it follows the biblical story of the blind Samson as he wreaks his revenge on the Philistines who have imprisoned him.
A powerful subject, with a personal resonance for the blind Milton, it is a perfect work for the medium of audiobook where poetry and drama can be balanced equally. This production, adapted for BBC Radio 3, broadcast in 2008 and directed by John Tydeman, features Iain Glen in the title role, with Samantha Bond as Dalila, Philip Madoc as Harapha and Michael Maloney as the Messenger.
John Milton
John Milton (1608-1657) was an English poet and intellectual. Milton worked as a civil servant for the Commonwealth of England and wrote during a time of religious change and political upheaval. Having written works of great importance and having made strong political decisions, Milton was of influence both during his life and after his death. He was an innovator of language, as he would often introduce Latin words to the English canon, and used his linguistic knowledge to produce propaganda and censorship for the English Republic’s foreign correspondence. Milton is now regarded as one of the best writers of the English language, exuding unparalleled intellect and talent.
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Reviews for Samson Agonistes
36 ratings2 reviews
- Rating: 3 out of 5 stars3/5The passages about blindness are wonderful, but the reading is very melodramatic, spoiling the poetry with ham over acting.
- Rating: 5 out of 5 stars5/5An excellent unabridged dramatization of Samson Agonistes. The poem is written as a play of the last day of Samson's life.
The play or poem is well worth the read, and this audiobook is great as an accompaniment.
Prior to being brought into the arena, Samson has conversations with his father, Delila, the father of Goliath, and his countrymen. An hour well spent.