How we cite our quotes: (Line number)
Quote #1
CHORUS: Yet truth to say, I oft have heard men wonder why thou shouldst wed Philistian women rather that of thine own tribe (215-216)
Marriage choices don't have only personal consequences: they have public and political consequences too. Think about that next time you log into OKCupid.
Quote #2
MANOA: I pray'd for children, and thought barrenness in wedlock a reproach (353)
Sounds like marriage carries a lot of expectations. Way stressful—no wonder it didn't work out for Samson.
Quote #3
SAMSON: In [Dalila's] prime of love, spousal embraces [were] vitiated with gold (389-390)
This is just a fancy way of saying that Dalila corrupted their marriage with a love of money. Samson is really trying to contrast the physical affection of marriage with Dalila's economic treatment of it.
Quote #4
MANOA: I cannot praise thy marriage choises, Son (420).
Okay, Dad. Understatement of the year.
Quote #5
SAMSON: At length to lay my head and hallow'd pledge of all my strength in the lascivious lap of a deceitful concubine (535-538)
When you call your wife a "concubine," things are not good on the marriage front.
Quote #6
DALILA: But conjugal affection prevailing over fear, and timerous doubt hath led me desirous to behold once more that face and know of thy estate (739-743).
Even though their marriage hasn't gone so well, Dalila still says its bond has an influence over her feelings. Does she really love him? She's making a good case for it.
Quote #7
SAMSON: Out, out, Hyeana, these are thy wonted arts and arts every woman false like thee (748-749)
We're not fans of Samson's misogynistic language here, both comparing his wife to an animal (hyena) and suggesting all women behave a certain way. Maybe if he treated his wife a little better, she'd have treated him a little better. We're just saying.
Quote #8
SAMSON: But had thy [Dalila's] love... bin, as it ought, sincere, it would have taught thee far other reasonings, brought forth other deeds (873-875)
Real love isn't just about feelings; it can actually help you learn and make you a better person. If you're thinking that Milton had high expectations about marriage, you're right. No wonder he found himself itching for a divorce.