Biographia literaria

This blog is the part of the thinking activity assigned by Megha ma'am.

         Biographia literaria by S.T. Coleridge

🔶  Brief information about the author       S.T.Coleridge.

∆  Samuel Taylor Coleridge :-

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (21 October 1772 – 25 July 1834) was an English poet, literary critic, philosopher, and theologian who, with his friend William Wordsworth, was a founder of the Romantic Movement in England and a member of the Lake Poets. He wrote the poems The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Kubla Khan, as well as the major prose work Biographia Literaria. 

🔶         Biographia literaria :-

∆  Introduction :-

The world of literature has witnessed the birth of many remarkable works throughout history, but few can match the uniqueness and enduring influence of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Biographia Literaria." Published in 1817, this literary masterpiece is a profound amalgamation of autobiography, literary criticism, and philosophical exploration. Join us on a journey through the pages of "Biographia Literaria" to uncover its rich tapestry of ideas, its impact on Romantic literature, and the enduring relevance of its insights.

Title: "Biographia Literaria"

Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834)

Publication Date: The work was first published in two volumes in 1817, with a third edition released in 1818.

Genre: "Biographia Literaria" is a unique blend of autobiography, literary criticism, and philosophical discourse.

∆  Structure :- 

The work is divided into two parts. The first part consists of autobiographical elements and reflections on Coleridge's early life, his literary influences, and his intellectual development. The second part delves into literary and philosophical criticism, particularly focusing on his views on imagination, creativity, and the relationship between poetry and philosophy.

∆  Overview :-

"Biographia Literaria" is a multifaceted work that offers readers a deep and introspective journey into the mind and life of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The book is divided into multiple chapters, each of which explores different aspects of Coleridge's life, thought, and literary perspectives. 

*  Key themes and concepts in the book include:

(1.) Autobiographical Elements :-

Coleridge begins by recounting his early life, education, and intellectual development. He reflects on his personal struggles, including his battles with addiction, making the work a fascinating autobiographical narrative.

(2.) The Nature of Poetry and Imagination :-

One of the central themes of "Biographia Literaria" is Coleridge's philosophy of poetry and the imagination. Coleridge argues that poetry is the product of a creative imagination that transcends mere imitation of reality. He introduces the term "esemplastic" to describe the power of the imagination to unify disparate elements into a harmonious whole. Coleridge's insights into the nature of poetry remain relevant today, providing a foundation for understanding how poetry differs from other forms of writing.

[1.] Difference between Poem & Poetry :-

Poem is a form of poetry. Poetry means to create & to make. Poetry is the art of creating a poem. Poetry is something going on in the poet's mind; how to create a poem , use of language, meter etc ...with his imagination.

Poem & Poetry are the piece of writing. Poem 8s the arrangement of words & it expresses writer's thoughts & feelings towards the readers.

Poem means within a few words we get all in the sense we can say that "થોડા મા ઝાઝુ કહૅવુ."

According to my point of view poem is shorter than poetry. It has no longer contain.

The various types of poem:

1.Narrative Poem

2.Epic Poem

3.Dramatic Poem

4.Lyric Poem

5.Sonnet

6. Ode

7.Ballad.

[2.] Difference between Poem & Prose :-

The poem & prose has a similar elements like language, events or thoughts.

The major difference is between theirs objectives.

Prose is a work in which the events are arranged in an order and has an end. It's aim is to give information to the reader about the truth. On the other hand , poem is a piece of art in which the truth is created through imagination. It's aim is to give delight to the reader.

Prose has a simple language., While poem han an ornament language with rhyme & meter.

Well that doesn't mean that if the meter is set artificially that work becomes a poem.

(3.) Literary Criticism :-

Throughout "Biographia Literaria," Coleridge provides insightful literary criticism. He offers detailed analyses of the works of other poets, including William Shakespeare, John Milton, and William Wordsworth. His examination of Shakespeare's plays, in particular, is highly regarded.

(4.) Philosophical Exploration :-

Coleridge engages with philosophical concepts, especially German idealism influenced by Immanuel Kant and Friedrich Schelling. He explores the relationship between the human mind and external reality, delving into questions of perception and consciousness.

∆  Influence :-

"Biographia Literaria" has had a profound and enduring influence on the fields of literature, literary criticism, and philosophy. It played a pivotal role in shaping the Romantic literary movement, emphasizing the importance of emotion, imagination, and the natural world. Coleridge's ideas on poetry and the creative imagination continue to inspire poets, writers, and scholars. His contributions to literary criticism, especially his insights into Shakespearean works, remain essential references for students and academics.

∆  Legacy :-

Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Biographia Literaria" stands as a testament to his intellectual prowess and creativity. It remains a must-read for anyone interested in the Romantic literary tradition, literary criticism, or the intersection of philosophy and literature. The work's enduring relevance and complexity make it a literary treasure that continues to captivate and inform readers and scholars alike.

∆  Conclusion :-

In conclusion, "Biographia Literaria" is a complex and multifaceted work that blends autobiography, literary criticism, and philosophy. It stands as a testament to Samuel Taylor Coleridge's intellectual prowess and remains a cornerstone of Romantic literature and criticism.