William Wordsworth

Definition

William Wordsworth was a central figure in the Romantic movement, known for his profound appreciation of nature and the human experience. His work emphasized emotional depth, a connection to the natural world, and the use of common language, which played a crucial role in shaping Romantic poetry and thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wordsworth is often credited with helping to launch the Romantic movement in England with the publication of 'Lyrical Ballads'.
2. He believed that poetry should be accessible and written in the language of everyday people, moving away from the elevated style of previous poets.
3. Wordsworth's close relationship with nature led him to view it as a source of inspiration, wisdom, and spiritual connection.
4. His famous poem 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud' reflects his belief in the healing power of nature and its ability to evoke deep emotions.
5. Wordsworth served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1843 until his death in 1850, marking his influence and recognition in literary circles.

Review Questions

• How did William Wordsworth's views on language and style influence the Romantic movement?
  • William Wordsworth championed the use of common language in poetry, believing that it should reflect the speech of ordinary people rather than an elevated literary style. This approach helped redefine poetry during the Romantic movement by making it more relatable and accessible. His emphasis on genuine emotion and personal experience also inspired other Romantic poets to explore similar themes in their work.
• Discuss the impact of 'Lyrical Ballads' on the development of Romantic poetry and its significance in literature.
  • 'Lyrical Ballads,' co-authored by Wordsworth and Coleridge, is considered a landmark publication that signaled the beginning of the Romantic movement in English literature. The collection introduced new themes such as emotion, nature, and individual experience, which resonated deeply with readers. It challenged existing poetic conventions by prioritizing personal expression and drawing inspiration from everyday life, thus influencing countless poets who followed.
• Evaluate how Wordsworth’s philosophy regarding nature influenced his poetry and its reception during his lifetime.
  • William Wordsworth’s philosophy centered around the idea that nature serves as a teacher and a source of emotional healing. His poems often portrayed natural landscapes as reflections of human emotions, suggesting that individuals could find solace and understanding through their connection with nature. This view not only resonated with contemporary readers seeking deeper meaning but also helped shift societal perceptions of nature as a vital element in understanding human experience. Wordsworth's unique approach ultimately contributed to a broader appreciation for environmental themes in literature.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and a reverence for nature.

Lyrical Ballads: A groundbreaking collection of poems published by Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge in 1798, which marked the beginning of the English Romantic movement.

Nature Poetry: A genre of poetry that focuses on the beauty, power, and significance of nature, often reflecting the poet's emotional response to the natural world.