from Act I of the French opera
Samson et Dalila by Camille Saint-Saëns
Libretto: Ferdinand Lemaire
Voice Part: baritone Fach: dramatic baritone
Setting: the public square of Gaza, ancient Palestine
Synopsis: The Israelites have risen up to break from their Philistine-imposed slavery. When told of the rebellion, the High Priest of Dagon curses the Israelites, their god, and especially their leader, Samson.