Samuel Taylor Coleridge, a pivotal figure in the Romantic literary movement,
was born on October 21, 1772, in the quaint village of Ottery St. Mary, located
in Devonshire, England. As the young son of Reverend John Coleridge and Ann
Bowdon Coleridge, he embarked on an early academic journey that would shape his
future in the arts and letters. Despite personal challenges and health issues,
Coleridge's life was marked by his profound contributions to literature,
particularly in collaboration with fellow poet William Wordsworth.
Early Life and Education
In 1775, the young Coleridge began his schooling at Dame Key's Reading
School. Three years later, he progressed to the Henry VIII Free Grammar School,
where his father served as the headmaster. Following the death of his father in
1782, he was sent to Christ's Hospital School in London. During his school
years, Coleridge was noted for his dreamy and eccentric demeanor, a reflection
of his fascination with metaphysics and a sign of his precocious intellect.
University Years and New Friendships
Coleridge entered Jesus College, Cambridge, in 1791. Despite his academic
prowess, he found the university environment uninspiring and departed in 1794
without completing his degree. A visit to Oxford in June of that year proved to
be a turning point when he met Robert Southey. The two shared poetic ambitions,
similar radical political and religious beliefs, and a mutual interest in the
ideals of the French Revolution. Together, they envisioned establishing a
utopian society in Pennsylvania, termed "Pantisocracy" by Coleridge, which
ultimately never came to fruition. This venture led to Coleridge's engagement
to Sara Flicker, who was connected through Southey's own engagement.
Literary Beginnings
In 1796, Coleridge released his first poetry collection, Poems on Various
Subjects. Concurrently, he took on the role of editor for the short-lived
periodical The Watchman, where he articulated his support for the French
Revolution and echoed the philosophies of William Godwin. The ensuing year saw
Coleridge relocate to Nether Stowey, which fortuitously placed him near William
Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy at Alfoxden House. This proximity fostered a
deep friendship and collaborative partnership with Wordsworth, culminating in
the publication of Lyrical Ballads in 1798, a landmark in English
literature that heralded the Romantic Period.
Struggles and Achievements
By the turn of the century, Coleridge's health began to wane. Doctors
prescribed laudanum to manage his pain, which may have led to an addiction and
deepened his depression. His personal turmoil found expression in his 1802 poem
"Dejection: An Ode," wherein Coleridge mourned his declining health and
creativity. Despite its somber themes, the poem is often celebrated as a
pinnacle of his lyrical artistry.
Journeys and Solitude
In 1803, Coleridge joined the Wordsworth siblings on a journey through
Scotland, seeking solace and inspiration. The following year, he traveled to
Malta, hoping the change in climate would restore his health. While there, he
served as the secretary to the island's Governor, Sir Alexander Ball. Yet,
feeling irreparably ill, he returned to England in 1806, subsequently
separating from his wife Sara and their children.
Coleridge's relationship with Wordsworth, a cornerstone of his personal and
professional life, also suffered during this time. A falling out in 1810
resulted in a two-year estrangement, a period marked by loneliness for
Coleridge. However, the two eventually reconciled, rekindling their
friendship.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1816, Coleridge moved to Highgate, where he lived under the care of Dr.
James Gilman. This environment allowed him to regain stability and focus,
ushering in a prolific period that spanned until 1819. He continued to engage
with the literary community through lectures and newspaper contributions. One
of his significant works from this era, Biographia Literaria (1817),
offers a rich tapestry of philosophical musings and literary critique,
including his reflections on the origins of Lyrical Ballads and the
exploration of "willing suspension of disbelief."
Coleridge's later years were serene and distinguished. In 1825, he was
honored with membership in the Royal Society of Literature. He also embarked on
a nostalgic tour of the Rhineland with Wordsworth in 1828, further solidifying
their renewed camaraderie. Known as the "Sage of Highgate," Coleridge relished
hosting discussions on literature and philosophy, captivating guests with his
insightful discourse. This period of tranquility lasted until his death in
Highgate on July 25, 1834, leaving behind a legacy as a transformative figure
in English Romanticism.