William Wordsworth

Definition

William Wordsworth was an English poet who, along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, helped launch the Romantic Age in English literature through their joint publication of 'Lyrical Ballads' in 1798. His poetry is characterized by a deep appreciation for nature, an emphasis on emotional expression, and the use of simple, everyday language, making it accessible to all. Wordsworth’s works reflect the Romantic ideals of individualism and a return to nature, which are central themes in both Romantic literature and art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wordsworth served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1843 until his death in 1850, marking his significant influence on English poetry.
2. He believed that poetry should be written in the language of ordinary people, which made his works relatable and impactful.
3. Wordsworth often drew inspiration from his surroundings in the Lake District, where he spent much of his life, incorporating local landscapes and experiences into his poetry.
4. His most famous work, 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,' celebrates the beauty of daffodils and illustrates his belief in nature's ability to uplift the human spirit.
5. Wordsworth's ideas about the relationship between humans and nature are encapsulated in his concept of 'the sublime,' which refers to the overwhelming beauty of nature that evokes deep emotional responses.

Review Questions

• How did William Wordsworth’s approach to language in poetry differentiate him from poets of earlier periods?
  • William Wordsworth's approach to language was revolutionary because he chose to write in the vernacular or everyday speech rather than using elevated or archaic language typical of earlier poets. This choice made his poetry more relatable and accessible to a wider audience. By prioritizing simplicity and emotional resonance over complexity, Wordsworth helped redefine what poetry could be, emphasizing authenticity and individual expression.
• Discuss how William Wordsworth’s themes reflect the broader ideals of Romanticism.
  • William Wordsworth's themes strongly embody the ideals of Romanticism through his emphasis on nature, emotion, and individual experience. His poetry often celebrates the beauty of the natural world, portraying it as a source of inspiration and spiritual renewal. Additionally, he highlights personal emotions as fundamental aspects of human experience, encouraging readers to connect with their feelings. This focus on individualism and a deep connection to nature aligns with the core tenets of Romantic thought.
• Evaluate the impact of Wordsworth’s collaboration with Coleridge on the development of Romantic literature and its lasting effects on future literary movements.
  • William Wordsworth's collaboration with Samuel Taylor Coleridge in 'Lyrical Ballads' marked a pivotal moment in literature that sparked the Romantic movement. Their partnership introduced new poetic forms and themes that prioritized emotion over rationality and celebrated nature as a profound source of inspiration. This groundbreaking work set the stage for future poets who would explore similar themes, leading to various literary movements that continued to prioritize personal experience and emotional depth, such as Transcendentalism and Modernism.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and a deep connection to nature, emerging as a reaction against the industrial revolution and the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Lyrical Ballads: A collection of poems published in 1798 by Wordsworth and Coleridge that is considered one of the cornerstones of Romantic literature, showcasing their innovative use of language and themes.

Nature Poetry: A genre of poetry that emphasizes the beauty and emotional power of nature, often reflecting personal feelings and experiences in response to natural landscapes.