Biography of William Wordsworth:
William Wordsworth (1770-1850) was an English Romantic poet who, along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, played a crucial role in the development of the Romantic literary movement in England.
Here’s an overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education:
Birth: William Wordsworth was born on April 7, 1770, in Cockermouth, Cumberland, England.
Education: He attended Hawkshead Grammar School and later went to St John’s College, Cambridge, where he studied poetry and classics.
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Early Poetic Endeavors and French Revolution:
Poetic Beginnings: Wordsworth published his first poetry collection, “An Evening Walk” and “Descriptive Sketches,” in 1793. These early works showcased his love for nature and his poetic talent.
Impact of the French Revolution: Wordsworth was initially a supporter of the French Revolution and its ideals of liberty and equality. However, he became disillusioned with the violent turn of events and the Reign of Terror, which influenced his later political views.
Lyrical Ballads and Collaborations:
Collaboration with Coleridge: In 1798, Wordsworth and Coleridge published “Lyrical Ballads,” a groundbreaking poetry collection that marked the beginning of the Romantic movement. It included Wordsworth’s famous poems like “Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey.”
Poetic Philosophy: Wordsworth’s poetry celebrated the beauty of nature, the simplicity of rural life, and the profound emotional experiences of ordinary people. He believed in the power of the human mind and imagination to connect with the natural world.
Later Life and Poetic Legacy:
Poetic Output: Wordsworth continued to write poetry throughout his life. His later works, including the long autobiographical poem “The Prelude,” reflected his deep contemplation on life, memory, and human experience.
Poetic Legacy: Wordsworth’s contributions to Romantic poetry and his emphasis on individual expression, emotion, and communion with nature influenced generations of poets. He is often regarded as one of the greatest poets in the English language.
Personal Life and Death:
Family Life: Wordsworth had a close relationship with his sister Dorothy Wordsworth, who was also a poet and diarist. He married Mary Hutchinson in 1802, and they had five children.
Death: William Wordsworth died on April 23, 1850, in Rydal Mount, Rydal, England.
William Wordsworth’s poetry celebrated the profound connection between humanity and nature, and his lyrical expressions continue to inspire readers and poets alike. His emphasis on the simplicity and beauty of everyday life made him a significant figure in the Romantic literary movement.