Samuel serves as a transitional character. He is the last of the Judges and was instrumental in establishing the monarchy. Samuel anointed both of Israel’s first two kings; Saul and David.
Saul is the first King of Israel. In many ways, Saul serves as a foil to David. While he is a strong military leader, he is a poor spiritual example and leader for his nation. Prior to Saul’s kingship, Israel was a loose coalition of tribes. Under Saul’s leadership, they began to come together into a more cohesive nation.
The later part of 1 Samuel recounts David’s rise in influence in Israel, his conflict with Saul, and his life as an outlaw. During all this David is cast in a favorable light. He is one who depends on the Lord and seeks to follow him. Throughout 1 Samuel, David is pictured as blameless.
