Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Definition

Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, known for his contributions to the Romantic literary movement. He is best recognized for his imaginative works that often explore themes of nature, the supernatural, and the human experience, and he is celebrated for his pioneering use of symbolism and emotional depth in poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coleridge was a key figure in the Romantic movement alongside William Wordsworth, and their collaboration on 'Lyrical Ballads' significantly influenced modern poetry.
2. He struggled with addiction throughout his life, particularly with opium, which impacted both his personal life and his creative output.
3. Coleridge's famous poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' features a mariner who tells a haunting tale of a sea voyage filled with supernatural events and moral lessons.
4. His work often reflects a deep fascination with nature and its spiritual significance, portraying landscapes as characters that resonate with human emotions.
5. Coleridge's critical essays on literature emphasized the importance of imagination in both poetry and philosophy, making him a foundational figure in literary theory.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Taylor Coleridge's collaboration with William Wordsworth influence the development of Romantic poetry?
  • Samuel Taylor Coleridge's collaboration with William Wordsworth in 'Lyrical Ballads' marked a pivotal moment in Romantic poetry by introducing new themes and styles. Their joint effort showcased a departure from neoclassical ideals towards emotional expression and everyday language. This collection set the stage for future poets by emphasizing the importance of individual experience and connection to nature, thus shaping the direction of the Romantic movement.
• In what ways did Coleridge's personal struggles impact his literary works?
  • Coleridge's personal struggles, particularly his addiction to opium, significantly influenced his literary creations. His experiences with altered states of consciousness often seeped into his writing, leading to vivid imagery and fantastical themes found in works like 'Kubla Khan' and 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner.' These struggles also contributed to his exploration of the human psyche, morality, and spirituality in his poetry, making it deeply reflective of his inner turmoil.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's ideas on imagination within literary criticism and how they resonate in contemporary literature.
  • Samuel Taylor Coleridge's ideas on imagination revolutionized literary criticism by asserting that true creativity stems from a profound engagement with one's inner self. His belief that imagination allows for deeper connections to reality has shaped how we view literature today. Contemporary writers continue to explore this concept as they delve into personal narratives and psychological complexities, illustrating how Coleridge's emphasis on imagination remains relevant across various genres and styles.

Related terms

Romanticism:

A literary and artistic movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature, often reacting against the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Lyrical Ballads: A collection of poems published in 1798 by Coleridge and William Wordsworth that marked the beginning of the English Romantic movement and introduced a new style of poetry focusing on everyday language and emotions.

Kubla Khan: A poem written by Coleridge in 1797, which describes a vivid dream about a palace and a mystical landscape, showcasing his use of rich imagery and the exploration of imagination.