Samuel Taylor Coleridge 
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner 

Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ is a seminal work of English poetic literature that bridges the gap between the Romantic and Gothic movements. Written in the late 18th century, the poem follows the journey of a sailor who is cursed after killing an albatross. Coleridge’s use of vivid imagery, supernatural elements, and a moralistic tone creates a haunting and unforgettable tale that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. The poem’s lyrical and rhythmic style, along with its innovative use of symbolism, has solidified its place in the canon of English literature. Coleridge’s skillful blending of Romantic ideals with Gothic sensibilities make ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ a timeless and influential work that continues to resonate with readers today.

About the author

Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) was a distinguished English poet, literary critic, philosopher, and theologian who played an influential role in the Romantic movement. Coleridge is best known for his eloquent lyrical ballads and profound imaginative poetry. His major contribution to the literary world includes ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ (1798), a seminal work that exemplifies his gift for vivid imagery and supernatural themes. The poem is distinguished by its archaic language and its exploration of guilt, atonement, and redemption through the tale of a cursed sailor’s harrowing journey. Coleridge’s mastery in weaving intricate symbolism and moral allegory with elements of the gothic was transformational in the canon of English poetry. Furthermore, his partnership with William Wordsworth in publishing ‘Lyrical Ballads’ ultimately heralded the dawn of the Romantic Age in English literature. Coleridge’s writings also extended to literary criticism, with his ‘Biographia Literaria’ (1817) offering deep insights into the nature of poetry and the process of poetic creation, which have influenced writers and critics through the subsequent centuries. His critical works have had a lasting impact on the theory and practice of English romanticism, securing his place as one of the foundational figures of English literature.