Biographia Literaria

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Nov. 2022 · DigiCat

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In Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 'Biographia Literaria', the author writes a groundbreaking work that mixes autobiography with literary criticism to create a unique and influential text. Published in 1817, this work reflects Coleridge's thoughts on philosophy, poetry, and the nature of the creative process. Mixing personal anecdotes with insightful analysis, Coleridge discusses his own poetic theories and the works of his contemporaries, such as William Wordsworth. The book is known for its complex prose style and in-depth exploration of poetic principles. Coleridge's discussion of imagination, symbolism, and the role of the poet in society makes 'Biographia Literaria' a must-read for anyone interested in Romantic literature. Coleridge's own struggles with addiction and mental health issues provide valuable context for understanding the deeply personal nature of this work. His intellectual curiosity and profound insights into the nature of artistic creation make 'Biographia Literaria' a timeless and essential read for students of literature and philosophy alike.

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Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) stands as a pivotal figure in English literature, an eminent poet, critic, and philosopher of the Romantic era. Coleridge's contributions to poetry are marked by his technical mastery and depth of thought, exemplified in works such as 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' and 'Kubla Khan.' His collaboration with William Wordsworth on the 'Lyrical Ballads' significantly heralded the advent of Romanticism in English literature. Coleridge's intellectual pursuits transcended poetry; his 'Biographia Literaria' is a seminal work that integrates literary criticism with personal reflection, offering profound insights into the nature and function of poetry, as well as a philosophical account of his poetic principles. It also outlines his theory of imagination, which distinguishes between primary and secondary imagination and the mere 'fancy'—a formulation that has deeply influenced later criticism and theory. Often characterized by an opulent lexicon and intricate syntax, Coleridge's prose investigates complex metaphysical concepts while maintaining an exceptional stylistic clarity. Despite personal struggles, including ill health and opium addiction, Coleridge's legacy as a thinker and artist endures, cementing his role as an intellectual beacon of the 19th century and a continuing subject of scholarly interest. His works remain essential readings for understanding the Romantic movement and its enduring impact on English literature.