Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Definition

Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, best known for his contributions to the Romantic movement in literature during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His works often focused on nature, imagination, and the sublime, embodying the core characteristics of Romanticism while also exploring themes of transcendence and the supernatural.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coleridge's work helped establish the Romantic era's emphasis on emotion and individualism, contrasting with the rationalism of the Enlightenment.
2. He is often credited with developing the concept of 'suspension of disbelief,' which encourages readers to accept fantastical elements in storytelling.
3. Coleridge collaborated closely with William Wordsworth, co-authoring 'Lyrical Ballads,' which is considered a foundational text for Romantic literature.
4. His most famous poem, 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' explores themes of guilt, redemption, and nature's beauty and terror.
5. Coleridge's writings often reflect his struggles with addiction and mental health, influencing both his poetry and philosophical ideas.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Taylor Coleridge's works exemplify the characteristics of Romanticism?
  • Coleridge's poetry showcases key characteristics of Romanticism through its deep emotional expression, focus on nature, and exploration of the imagination. His works often delve into themes such as the sublime and the supernatural, which align with Romantic ideals that prioritize individual experience over rational thought. By integrating personal feelings and a connection to the natural world in poems like 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' Coleridge illustrates the essence of Romanticism.
• Discuss Coleridge's collaboration with Wordsworth and its significance in shaping Romantic literature.
  • Coleridge's partnership with William Wordsworth led to the publication of 'Lyrical Ballads,' a groundbreaking collection that marked a pivotal moment in English literature. This collaboration not only defined the principles of Romantic poetry but also set a new standard for poetic language by emphasizing simplicity and emotional depth. Their joint efforts helped to shift literary focus from formal structures to themes that explored human experience and connection with nature.
• Evaluate how Coleridge's personal struggles influenced his literary output and themes.
  • Samuel Taylor Coleridge's personal battles with addiction and mental health issues profoundly impacted his writing style and thematic choices. His struggles are reflected in the complex emotional landscapes of his poetry, where themes of guilt, redemption, and existential inquiry frequently arise. For instance, in 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' these personal experiences contribute to a deeper exploration of morality and humanity's relationship with nature, illustrating how his life experiences shaped his creative vision.

Related terms

Lyrical Ballads: A collection of poems published in 1798 by Coleridge and William Wordsworth that marked the beginning of the English Romantic movement.

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner:

A narrative poem by Coleridge, first published in 1798, that tells the story of a mariner's harrowing sea voyage and his spiritual journey.

Imagination:

A central theme in Romantic poetry, emphasizing the power of the human mind to create, envision, and transcend reality.