Biographia Literaria

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.