William wordsworth's preface to the lyrical ballads

 

william wordsworth's preface to the lyrical ballads 

thinking activities. This task has been entrusted by Mr.barad (prof. and HOD of english department MKBU)

Explain me how French revolution influenced Wordsworth romanticism?

               The French Revolution had a significant influence on William Wordsworth's Romanticism, particularly in shaping his political and philosophical views. Here's how it impacted his work:

Embrace of Nature and Simplicity: 

Wordsworth, like other Romantic poets, was inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution, which called for liberty, equality, and fraternity. He translated these ideals into his poetry by emphasizing the simplicity and beauty of nature, viewing it as a source of spiritual renewal and a reflection of the inherent goodness of humanity. This emphasis on the natural world and rural life is a hallmark of Wordsworth's Romantic poetry.

Celebration of Common People: 

The French Revolution promoted the idea of equality among all citizens, which influenced Wordsworth's preference for depicting the lives and experiences of common people in his poetry. He celebrated the dignity and worth of ordinary individuals, often using them as central characters in his works to convey a sense of shared humanity.

Spiritual Connection:

 Wordsworth's engagement with the revolutionary ideals led him to explore the spiritual and moral dimensions of human existence. He believed that the revolution's focus on liberty and fraternity could lead to a more profound connection between individuals and a higher, transcendent reality. This spiritual aspect is evident in his poetry, where he often sought to convey a sense of the sublime in nature and human experience.

Individualism: 

The French Revolution's emphasis on individual rights and freedom influenced Wordsworth's exploration of the individual's inner world and emotions. He was interested in the subjective experience of individuals and how they connected with the larger world, which is evident in his introspective and autobiographical poems.

In summary, the French Revolution's ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity resonated with Wordsworth's Romantic vision, leading him to emphasize the beauty of nature, the worth of ordinary people, the spiritual aspects of life, and the exploration of individual emotions in his poetry. These themes became integral to his distinctive brand of Romanticism.

Write brief analysis of any one short poem by Wordsworth with reference to his poetic creed

Analyze William Wordsworth's poem "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey," often referred to as "Tintern Abbey." This poem is a quintessential representation of Wordsworth's poetic creed and his core ideas about nature, memory, and the transcendent power of the imagination.

In "Tintern Abbey," Wordsworth reflects upon a return visit to the Wye Valley and the Tintern Abbey ruins after a five-year absence. Here are some key aspects of the poem in the context of his poetic creed:

Nature as a Source of Spiritual Renewal:

 Wordsworth's deep connection to nature is evident in this poem. He describes the landscape in vivid detail, highlighting its beauty and tranquility. For Wordsworth, nature is not merely an external, aesthetic backdrop but a spiritual force that nurtures the human soul. In his poetic creed, he believed that nature could provide solace, inspiration, and a sense of the sublime.

The Role of Memory: 

Wordsworth emphasizes the importance of memory and how it can sustain an individual, even in times of absence from nature. He refers to the memories of the landscape as a "blessed mood" and a "presence" that continues to shape his thoughts and feelings. This aligns with his belief that the memories of natural experiences can serve as a source of emotional and moral strength.

The Transcendent Power of the Imagination: 

Wordsworth's poetic creed underscores the idea that the imagination has the ability to elevate ordinary experiences to a sublime level. In "Tintern Abbey," he describes the power of the imagination to create a sense of unity between the past and the present, between himself and his sister, and between the physical and the spiritual realms. The imagination, according to Wordsworth, can transcend the limitations of time and space.

Connection to the Past and Human Relationships: 

Wordsworth also values the role of human relationships and the sense of continuity with the past. He speaks of his sister as a companion in this spiritual journey and expresses gratitude for her presence. This emphasis on human connections and the continuity of experience is in line with his belief in the importance of emotional and moral bonds.

              Overall, "Tintern Abbey" beautifully encapsulates Wordsworth's poetic creed by celebrating nature as a source of spiritual nourishment, memory as a powerful force, the imagination as a transcendent tool, and human relationships as essential elements of the human experience. The poem reflects his deep Romantic belief in the interconnectedness of the natural world and the human spirit.