Exploration of British Romantic Literature through the Works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge
British Romantic Literature underwent a significant shift from the strict rationality of the 18th century to embracing imagination, nature, and emotion in the 19th century. This shift is exemplified through the works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, particularly his unfinished epic poem "Christabel." The poem delves into mysterious interactions between humans, nature, and the supernatural, portraying themes of good versus evil, innocence, and spirituality. Coleridge's exploration of imagination and creativity as tools to reshape reality reflects the essence of Romanticism.
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British Romantic Literature Dr. Ritika Batabyal Asst. Professor Dept. of English Bajkul Milani Mahavidyalaya Date: 11.05.23
Introduction 18thcentury imagination took a backseat in every aspect of life and literature. Poet is not a creator but interpreter of common experiences. Not interested with the unfamiliar/unseen/ mysteries Reason and rational thinking was the mantra of 18thcentury. God as the watchmaker. Everything need to follow a set pattern/rule
Traits of Romanticism Break from the worldview of extreme rule and dogmatism Imagination & nature became fundamental. Back to Nature Creative impulse needs to work untrammelled. Keen to fashion new world of the mind with their creative spirit. Feeling instead of reason & experience instead of argument In imagination man s spiritual nature is fully realised.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge 1772-1834 Christabel Biographia Literaria Idea of primary imagination and secondary imagination Poetry a product of secondary imagination, which differs only in degrees from the primary imagination Difference between fancy and imagination Secondary imagination selects and orders raw materials, reshapes & remodels it in to objects of beauty. It is esemplastic i.e., a shaping and modifying power which by its plastic stress reshapes objects of the external world & steeps them with glory & dream that never was on sea and land.
Christabel (Part-I) Initially wanted to write Christabel as an epic in 5 parts did not finish it before his death in 1834 Discussion of the poem mysterious meeting of and interaction between 2 women. Exposing romantic ideas regarding interactions of humans, nature & the supernatural world. Explores relationship that exists among the natural, supernatural & man-made. Supernatural elements in the poem nature behaving unnaturally . Supernatural emanating from the natural in an unique way Supernatural enchantment with a highly romantic spirit Treatment of the supernatural indicates mystical aspect of Romantic art. Takes the readers away from the earthly reality (esemplastic) Idea of the good and evil Geraldine trying to possess the soul of an innocent lady Geraldine sudden appearance, strange beauty,, queer conduct, serpentile look Good evil binary Christabel innocence, purity, good, calm Idea of Christianity.
