Question

The word ‘agonistes’ in the title of Milton's play means :

• A. In pain
• B. In combat
• C. Under trial
• D. Under arrest

Answer 1

Answer:

B. In combat

Origin and Meaning of 'Agonistes'

• The term 'agonistes' is derived from the Greek word 'agōn', which means a contest, struggle, or a gathering for competition, often in athletics or drama.
• In classical Greek, 'agonistes' referred to a combatant or a competitor, someone engaged in a fierce struggle or conflict.
• John Milton's use of 'agonistes' in the title of his play, Samson Agonistes, directly reflects this meaning.

Context in Milton's Play

• The play Samson Agonistes (published in 1671) is a dramatic poem written in the form of a Greek tragedy.
• It recounts the final days of the biblical hero Samson, who is blind, imprisoned, and tormented by the Philistines.
• The title signifies Samson's ultimate struggle and combat, not only physical but also spiritual and psychological, against his adversaries and his own fate.
• Milton draws heavily on classical Greek dramatic conventions, including the chorus and the tragic hero's downfall, to explore themes of faith, suffering, and divine justice.

Exam Relevance

• Questions about literary terms and their origins are common in competitive exams.
• Understanding the etymology of words used in titles of significant literary works helps in interpreting the deeper meanings and themes of the works.
• Knowledge of Greek and Latin roots is often beneficial for vocabulary building and comprehending complex literary texts.