What is Coleridge’s Objection to Wordsworth’s Selection of Characters in his Poems?
___ is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of ___.
Answer
What is Coleridge’s objection to Wordsworth’s selection of characters in his poems?
Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) and William Wordsworth (1770-1850) were two prominent poets of the Romantic era (1798-1831). They collaborated on “Lyrical Ballads,” (1800) which marked a significant shift in English poetry. Despite their close partnership, Coleridge objected to some of Wordsworth’s poetic choices, particularly in his selection of characters.
Coleridge’s Perspective on Poetic Characters: Coleridge believed poetry should elevate and idealize its subjects. He thought that characters in poetry should be extraordinary or have remarkable qualities that inspire the reader. In contrast, Wordsworth often chose ordinary people as his characters, such as shepherds, peasants, and rural folk. Coleridge felt these characters lacked the grandeur and nobility that poetry traditionally celebrated. Coleridge says about the function of a poet that,
The poet, described in ideal perfection, brings the whole soul of man into activity.
The Clash Between Characters and Language: According to Coleridge, all the characters in Wordsworth’s poems are chosen from the rustic life. However, many characters are low and rustic in the usual acceptance of these words. Their emotions and language do not necessarily originate from their residence or occupation. We notice that Wordsworth uses the word real or very to use language in poetry. Coleridge says language of each man differs. So, he suggests to use the word ordinary than real. He says,
Every man’s language varies, according to the extent of his knowledge, the activity of his faculties, and the depth or quickness of his feelings.
Every man’s language varies, according to the extent of his knowledge, the activity of his faculties, and the depth or quickness of his feelings.
In termination, Coleridge’s objection to Wordsworth’s selection of characters stemmed from a fundamental difference in their poetic philosophies. Coleridge preferred extraordinary characters and elevated language, while Wordsworth championed the ordinary and natural. Their debates on these issues enriched their work and contributed significantly to the development of Romanticism.