The Literary Life Podcast Episode 247: Introduction to "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Oct 22, 2024
Dive into the enchanting world of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 'Rime of the Ancient Mariner' as fascinating discussions unfold. Discover the vibrant Romantic period and how Coleridge and Wordsworth shaped it with their unique perspectives. The use of medieval language and allegory reveals a quest for ancient storytelling. Unravel Coleridge's eccentricities and his profound imagination, embracing a 'willing suspension of disbelief' for a richer reading experience. This exploration promises deeper literary insights and timeless connections!
01:01:22
Edition Choice
- Don't stress about which edition of "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" to read.
- Use whichever edition you have available, as the differences are not critical for initial engagement.
Lyrical Ballads
- Wordsworth's preface to the Lyrical Ballads doesn't fully represent Coleridge's contributions.
- Coleridge's "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" is more fantastical than Wordsworth's "common life" poetry.
Romantic Differences
- Wordsworth's theory of poetry as "spontaneous overflow of emotion" influenced art's view.
- Coleridge viewed the imagination as a tool for truth, unlike the 18th-century emphasis on pure reason.
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Intro
00:00 • 3min
Upcoming Webinars: Exploring Music and Philosophy
02:42 • 2min
Exploring the Depths of Plato's Republic: Misinterpretations and Influences
04:52 • 2min
Coleridge and Wordsworth: A Literary Exploration
06:49 • 19min
Unpacking the Romantic Poets
25:55 • 22min
Unraveling Coleridge: Imagination and Eccentricity
48:22 • 9min
An Essential Exploration of 'Rime of the Ancient Mariner'
57:26 • 4min
The faerie queene
Edmund Spenser
Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene" is an epic poem that allegorically explores the virtues and vices of human nature. Through its intricate narrative and rich symbolism, the poem celebrates the ideals of chivalry, piety, and justice. The poem's characters and events are often interpreted as representing abstract concepts and moral lessons. Its complex structure and allegorical depth have made it a subject of ongoing scholarly debate. Its enduring influence on English literature is undeniable, shaping the development of epic poetry and allegorical writing.
Joseph Andrews
Joseph Andrews
Henry Fielding
Epitaph on an Infant
Epitaph on an Infant
null
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Epitaph on an Infant" is a short poem that expresses the grief and sorrow associated with the death of a young child. Through its simple yet poignant language, the poem captures the innocence and beauty of the infant's life, contrasting it with the harsh reality of death. The poem's brevity and emotional intensity make it a powerful expression of loss and remembrance. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep empathy and resonate with readers who have experienced similar grief.
Biographia literaria
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Biographia Literaria" is a seminal work of literary criticism and theory. It explores Coleridge's views on the imagination, poetry, and the nature of creativity. The work delves into his philosophical and theological ideas, offering insights into his intellectual development and artistic principles. Coleridge's discussions of the imagination, particularly the distinction between fancy and imagination, have had a lasting impact on literary theory. The work's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of fundamental questions about art, creativity, and the human mind.
Murder Must Advertise
Murder Must Advertise
Jane McDowell
Dorothy L. Sayers
Hard Times
Hard Times
Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens's "Hard Times" is a social critique that explores the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and utilitarianism. The novel contrasts the pragmatic worldview of Mr. Gradgrind, who emphasizes facts and figures above all else, with the imaginative spirit of Sissy Jupe. Through its vivid characters and compelling narrative, the novel exposes the flaws of a society that prioritizes reason over emotion and empathy. Dickens's powerful portrayal of social injustice and the importance of human connection continues to resonate with readers today. The novel's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of timeless themes of social inequality and the human need for compassion.
Fantasies
Fantasies
null
George MacDonald
George MacDonald's "Phantastes" is considered a seminal work of fantasy literature, blending elements of romance, allegory, and Christian theology. The novel follows Anodos, a young man who journeys through a dreamlike landscape, encountering various characters and challenges. MacDonald's work explores themes of faith, love, and the nature of reality, using symbolic imagery and fantastical elements to convey profound spiritual truths. Its influence on subsequent fantasy writers, including C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, is undeniable. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its imaginative storytelling and its exploration of timeless themes.
The Book of Romans
null
C.S. Lewis
The Book of Romans, a central text in the New Testament, is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian community in Rome. It's a profound theological treatise that explores the nature of salvation, the relationship between Jews and Gentiles, and the implications of faith in Jesus Christ. Paul's arguments are complex and nuanced, addressing issues of law, grace, and the Christian life. The book's impact on Christian theology has been immense, shaping doctrines and practices for centuries. Its enduring relevance lies in its exploration of fundamental questions about faith, righteousness, and the human condition.
The rhyme of the ancient mariner
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner" is a narrative poem renowned for its haunting atmosphere, supernatural elements, and allegorical depth. The poem follows an old mariner who shoots an albatross, bringing a curse upon his ship and crew. Through his arduous journey, he confronts his guilt and learns the importance of respecting all living creatures. The poem's exploration of themes like guilt, redemption, and the interconnectedness of nature and humanity has resonated with readers for centuries. Its unique blend of fantasy, symbolism, and psychological insight makes it a cornerstone of Romantic literature. The poem's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke profound emotions and spark contemplation on the human condition.
History of English Literature
History of English Literature
Andrew Lang
Lyrical ballads
William Wordsworth
Lyrical Ballads, published in 1798, is a landmark collection of poetry by William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, marking a pivotal moment in the development of English Romanticism. The collection showcases a departure from the formal conventions of 18th-century poetry, embracing simpler language and themes drawn from everyday life. Wordsworth's contributions focus on the beauty of nature and the power of human emotion, while Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" introduces supernatural elements and allegorical depth. The collection's preface, written by Wordsworth, articulates the poets' aims and principles, sparking significant debate and influencing the course of English poetry. Its impact on subsequent generations of poets is undeniable, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Romantic literature.
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Written in epistolary form, the novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious scientist who, driven by Enlightenment-era ideas of progress and science, creates a living being from dead body parts. However, upon seeing the creature come to life, Frankenstein is horrified and abandons it. The creature, shunned by society due to its appearance, seeks revenge against its creator, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of guilt, loss, and the emotional and moral consequences of scientific hubris, blending elements of Gothic and Romantic literature.
Paradise Lost
John Milton
Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights[1][3][5].
Plato's Republic
Plato
A dish of orts
George MacDonald
Tom Jones
Henry Fielding
On The Literary Life podcast this week, Angelina Stanford and Thomas Banks begin their newest series, this time discussing Samuel Taylor Coleridge's Rime of the Ancient Mariner. First, Thomas and Angelina speak to the question of different editions of this poem, then they dive into the background on Coleridge, William Wordsworth, and the lyrical ballads. They discuss the artistic and cultural moment in which Coleridge is writing, particularly the Romantic period in literature. Angelina talks about the Romantics and why they used so much medieval language and used allegory so heavily. She shares some examples of the writers in this vein seeking to rediscover and return to ancient tradition and stories. Thomas also considers Coleridge as a poet and a person. Finally, they give some helpful information and tips for those approaching this text for the first time.
To see all the books and get the full show notes for today's episode, visit our website for the complete show notes here: https://www.theliterary.life/247/.