1. It has been suggested that "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" is nearly twice as long as necessary. What would be the impact of shortening the poem? Which specific passages would you remove, and for what reasons?

2. Symbols play a crucial role in this poem. Traditionally, snakes symbolize both good (as seen in the medical emblem, representing healing) and evil (as with the serpent in the Garden of Eden). After researching other symbolic uses of snakes at the library, explain why you think Coleridge chose to include a water snake at the poem's climax.

3. In literature and folklore, the human eye is often seen as a reflection of the soul. Analyze Coleridge's use of this tradition by examining each instance where eyes are mentioned in the poem (including lines 3, 12, 139, 144, 215, 228, 251, 255, 260, 332, 416, 436, 440, 485, 560, 567, and 618).

4. Compare the poem's themes in the lines "The very deep did rot: O Christ!/ That ever this should be!/ Yea, slimy things did crawl with legs/ Upon the slimy sea" (ll. 123-126) with "O happy living things! no tongue/ Their beauty might declare" (ll. 282-283). Reflect on the theme of appreciating life and the significance of "a spring of love" that emerged from the mariner's heart as he blessed the snakes "unaware." Why is it vital that he blesses the snakes without conscious thought after killing the albatross impulsively?

5. Discuss Coleridge's use of imagery in the poem, providing examples to support your points.

6. Analyze the use of Christian elements in the poem.

7. How does Coleridge integrate supernatural elements into the poem? What roles do these elements serve? How do the supernatural aspects interact with the natural elements?

8. Do you believe Coleridge effectively employed simple, colloquial language in this poem? In your analysis, consider the influence of the ballad form and rhyme scheme on the narrative style.

9. Review the statements of purpose in Wordsworth's preface to Lyrical Ballads and in chapter 14 of Coleridge's Biographia Literaria. Assess how well "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" aligns with the poets' intended goals and methods of expression.