Christabel & Kubla Khan (eBook)

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) was an eminent English poet, critic, philosopher, and theologian, who, together with his friend William Wordsworth, was a founding figure of the Romantic Movement in England. Perhaps his most famous contributions to English literature are the poems 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' and 'Kubla Khan,' the latter written in a prophetic reverie but published much later, as well as the unfinished 'Christabel,' which is recognized for its supernatural themes and innovative use of meter. Coleridge's masterful and vivid use of imagery and exploration of the supernatural have distinguished his work from that of his contemporaries. His literary style is marked by a rich and intense poetic sensibility, potent imagination, and deep philosophical and theological insights, often reflecting his struggle with opium addiction. Coleridge's criticism in 'Biographia Literaria,' a collection of his thoughts on literature, poetics, and philosophy, has been highly influential, establishing his reputation as one of the most important critics in English literature. His work not only helped to shape the literature of his own time but has continued to resonate throughout the centuries, influencing a diverse array of poets and thinkers. Despite battling personal demons, Coleridge's profound impact on literature makes him one of the iconic figures of the Romantic era and a lasting inspiration in the literary world.