The John Milton Library

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 o...

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 i...

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 th...

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 so...

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 tr...

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 k...

In which the liberties of reason and choice granted by divine Providence are extolled as the foundation of virtue, and the futility of attempting to eradicate sin by mere prohibition of its outward matter is demonstrated with measured reflection. The encumbrances and discouragements imposed by a strict licencing order upon learned men and the free exercise of truth are lamented as both a dishonour...

In which the origins and nature of book-licensing are examined with a discerning eye, revealing it as a foreign and tyrannical imposition rather than a beneficent law of well-ordered states, and the exercise of reading is extolled as a necessary engagement with both good and evil for the cultivation of true virtue. The discourse further contemplates the impracticality and futility of controlling a...

In which the author earnestly addresses the Parliament of England, extolling the virtues of civil liberty and the free exchange of ideas while cautioning against the overreach of licensing that stifles learning and truth. He thoughtfully examines the history of book censorship across ancient and Christian societies, revealing the perils of suppressing knowledge and urging a temperate vigilance rat...