Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Definition

Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an influential English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, widely recognized as a key figure in the Romantic movement. His works are characterized by their deep emotional resonance, imaginative power, and exploration of the supernatural. Coleridge’s contributions to poetry and prose helped shape the ideals of Romanticism, influencing not just English literature but also its themes and approaches across the globe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coleridge's poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' is renowned for its vivid imagery and exploration of guilt and redemption, establishing him as a master of narrative poetry.
2. He was known for his collaboration with William Wordsworth, which not only defined their individual careers but also marked a significant moment in the history of English literature.
3. Coleridge’s philosophical writings, particularly his concept of 'suspension of disbelief,' have had a lasting impact on both literature and literary criticism.
4. He struggled with addiction throughout his life, which influenced his work and personal relationships, adding complexity to his artistic legacy.
5. Coleridge's influence extended beyond poetry; his thoughts on aesthetics and creativity helped lay the groundwork for modern literary theory.

Review Questions

• How did Samuel Taylor Coleridge's collaboration with William Wordsworth in 'Lyrical Ballads' redefine English poetry?
  • Samuel Taylor Coleridge's collaboration with William Wordsworth in 'Lyrical Ballads' marked a pivotal moment in English poetry by introducing themes that emphasized emotion, nature, and the experiences of common people. This collection challenged the rigid forms of neoclassicism that preceded it and laid the groundwork for Romanticism by showcasing how poetry could reflect personal feelings and imagination. The work signified a shift towards valuing subjective experience over traditional poetic conventions.
• Discuss the significance of imagination in Coleridge's works and how it relates to Romantic ideals.
  • Imagination plays a crucial role in Coleridge's works as he viewed it as a powerful force that transcends mere reason. For Coleridge, imagination allows individuals to connect with deeper truths about existence, beauty, and the supernatural. This aligns with Romantic ideals that prioritize emotional depth and personal experience over rational thought. His belief that art should evoke emotions through imaginative expression reflects the core principles that define Romanticism.
• Evaluate how Coleridge's struggles with addiction influenced his literary output and legacy within the Romantic movement.
  • Coleridge's struggles with addiction significantly impacted both his personal life and literary output. His dependence on opiates affected his ability to produce work consistently, leading to unfinished pieces and unfulfilled ambitions. However, this turmoil also infused his poetry with intense emotional depth and complexity, offering insights into themes like guilt, despair, and redemption. Consequently, while addiction hindered his productivity, it simultaneously enriched his artistic legacy within the Romantic movement by providing raw material for profound explorations of human experience.

Related terms

Lyrical Ballads: A collaborative collection of poems by Coleridge and William Wordsworth, published in 1798, which is considered a cornerstone of English Romantic literature and emphasizes the importance of nature and emotion.

Imagination: A central theme in Romanticism, it refers to the creative faculty of the mind that Coleridge believed was essential for artistic expression and understanding the world beyond mere rationality.

Kubla Khan: One of Coleridge's most famous poems, inspired by a dream, showcasing his signature style that combines vivid imagery with themes of beauty, nature, and the sublime.