William Wordsworth

Definition

William Wordsworth was an influential English poet and a key figure in the Romantic movement, known for his deep appreciation of nature, exploration of human emotion, and innovative use of everyday language in poetry. His works often reflect the belief that poetry should be a natural expression of feeling and should connect deeply with the beauty of the natural world, making him a pivotal figure in Romantic literature and its global legacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wordsworth's famous preface to 'Lyrical Ballads' helped define the Romantic movement by outlining his views on poetry and its purpose.
2. He was born on April 7, 1770, in Cockermouth, England, and spent much of his life in the Lake District, which heavily influenced his writing.
3. Wordsworth believed that poetry should be written in the language of ordinary people to make it accessible and relatable.
4. His poem 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,' also known as 'Daffodils,' is one of his most famous works, celebrating the beauty of nature and the power of memory.
5. He served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1843 until his death in 1850, further solidifying his status in English literature.

Review Questions

• How did Wordsworth's approach to poetry differ from that of his predecessors, particularly in terms of language and subject matter?
  • William Wordsworth's approach to poetry was revolutionary compared to earlier poets who often used elevated language and themes. He advocated for using the language of common people, which made poetry more relatable and accessible. Wordsworth focused on ordinary subjects, such as nature and human emotions, believing that these themes could evoke profound feelings and connections within readers.
• Discuss the significance of 'Lyrical Ballads' in shaping the Romantic movement and Wordsworth's contributions to it.
  • 'Lyrical Ballads' is often considered a foundational text of the Romantic movement. In this collection, Wordsworth collaborated with Samuel Taylor Coleridge to present poems that emphasized emotional depth and natural beauty. Wordsworth’s preface outlined his revolutionary ideas about poetry’s purpose, advocating for a focus on everyday life and nature rather than grand themes. This shift not only redefined poetic standards but also laid the groundwork for future Romantic writers to explore similar themes.
• Analyze how Wordsworth's relationship with nature influenced his literary works and contributed to the broader Romantic legacy.
  • William Wordsworth's relationship with nature was central to his poetry, reflecting both personal solace and a philosophical perspective on humanity's connection to the natural world. His works celebrated nature's beauty while also contemplating its emotional significance. This focus on nature not only distinguished his writing but also resonated with broader Romantic ideals that emerged during this period. As poets sought to reconnect with nature in an increasingly industrialized world, Wordsworth's legacy paved the way for future generations to explore these themes, emphasizing nature’s role as both a source of inspiration and a reflection of human experience.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, reacting against the industrialization and rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Lyrical Ballads: A collection of poems published in 1798 by Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, marking a significant shift in English poetry towards a focus on common people and emotional authenticity.

Nature Poetry: A genre of poetry that emphasizes the beauty and importance of nature, often highlighting humanity's connection to the natural world, which is central to Wordsworth's work.