It is argued that Saul was the victim of Samuel's (and God's) revenge and that his persecution of David had understandable survival value, for David, by having been chosen to replace Saul, was indeed an enemy, though one much invested with love. The tragedy lies in the divine intent of allowing Saul to first become a victorious King, to form very close bonds with both Samuel and David and then to deprive him of all these supports in rapid succession. Despair, paranoia and suicide appear understandable, although perhaps not acceptable.
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