Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Definition

Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, who was a key figure in the Romantic movement. His works, particularly his contributions to 'Lyrical Ballads' and his exploration of the supernatural, shaped the evolution of Romantic poetry and thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coleridge was born on October 21, 1772, and he became known for his unique ability to blend lyrical beauty with philosophical depth in his poetry.
2. He is famous for his poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' which showcases his fascination with the supernatural and the power of nature.
3. Coleridge was deeply influenced by German philosophy and literature, which shaped his understanding of imagination and its role in creativity.
4. He struggled with addiction throughout his life, which affected his work and relationships but also contributed to the emotional intensity found in his poetry.
5. His friendship with Wordsworth was pivotal in the development of Romantic poetry, as they collaborated on 'Lyrical Ballads,' which aimed to bring ordinary language and themes into poetry.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Taylor Coleridge's contributions to 'Lyrical Ballads' reflect the innovations in lyrical poetry during the Romantic period?
  • Coleridge's contributions to 'Lyrical Ballads' showcased a significant shift in lyrical poetry by incorporating common language and focusing on personal emotion and nature. His poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' exemplifies this shift with its vivid imagery and exploration of human experience intertwined with the supernatural. This approach not only influenced contemporary poets but also set the stage for a more emotive style that characterized Romantic literature.
• In what ways did Coleridge's philosophical beliefs shape his understanding of imagination within the Romantic aesthetic?
  • Coleridge's philosophical beliefs were heavily influenced by German thinkers like Kant and Schelling, leading him to view imagination as a powerful creative force that transcends mere perception. He believed that imagination could unite different aspects of experience, allowing individuals to access deeper truths about existence. This perspective contributed to the Romantic aesthetic by emphasizing that art should evoke emotional responses and connect audiences with the sublime aspects of nature.
• Critically analyze how Coleridge's life experiences influenced his literary contributions and the broader context of the Romantic movement in Europe.
  • Coleridge's life experiences, including his struggles with addiction and personal relationships, profoundly influenced his literary work. These challenges added emotional depth to his poetry and enhanced his exploration of themes like nature's beauty and human despair. Within the broader context of the Romantic movement in Europe, Coleridge's unique blend of lyrical innovation, philosophical inquiry, and focus on individual emotion contributed to defining characteristics of Romantic literature while also inspiring subsequent generations of writers grappling with similar issues.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism, reacting against the Industrial Revolution and Enlightenment rationalism.

Lyrical Ballads: 'Lyrical Ballads' is a collection of poems published in 1798 by Coleridge and William Wordsworth that is considered a cornerstone of English Romantic literature, introducing new themes and styles.

Imagination: A central concept in Romantic philosophy, referring to the ability to create new ideas and perceptions that transcend ordinary experiences and connect with deeper truths.