Comment on the role of the Chorus in Samson Agonistes.
“The chorus
should be regarded as one of the actors; it should be an integral part of the whole
and take a share in the action" -Aristotle
The chorus: its nature and history:
- The chorus first originated in Greek drama. The chorus in the
original Greek drama comprised a group of singers who interpreted the action to
the audience, as well as participated in the action. It commented on the action,
explained the significance of character and action, and provided information
regarding events.
The chorus: its composition in
Milton’s Samson Agonists: - in Samson Agonistes, Milton has
introduced the chorus after the Greek manner which he himself points out in the
preface to the play. However, in his use of chorus, Milton has followed
Sophocles rather than that of Euripides. In contrary to Euripides’s chorus who
remains aloof from the action and from the development of the plot, Sophocles’
chorus is closely related to the theme and the action of the play. The chorus in
Sophoclean plays reviews what has happened and prepares the audience for what
is coming. Indeed, the chorus in Samson Agonistes performs their function in correspondence
with Sophocles’ chorus.
Its role in development of action: - At the very outset of play,
we are introduced by the chorus, comprised the people of Dan, one of the Jewish
tribes to which Samson belongs. Later it remains on the stage throughout the action,
participates in the deliberation and departs at the end of the play.
