Precursors of Romanticism, Romanticism in English Literature

Pre-Cursors of Romanticism by Dr. Vipul V. Kapoor, Romanticism in English Literature, James Thomson, The Seasons

1. Precursors of Romanticism D Dr . Vipul V. Kapoor

2. Fire of Romanticism ‘Lyrical Ballads’ by Wordsworth & Coleridge

3. Precursors of Romanticism, The ‘Transitional Poets’

4. They stood between the classical school of Pope and the romantic school of Wordsworth and Coleridge. They reacted against the dull, drab and artificial neo-classical poetry of the 18 th century.

5. James Thomson (1700 to 1748) James Thomson’s ‘ The Seasons’ (1730) rings the death-knell of Neo-classicism and ignites the flame of Romanticism. It is the first English poem to speak about the beauties and diversities of Nature. He presided over the sensuous and spiritual love for nature which we find in Keats and Wordsworth.

6.  William Collins (1721 to 1759) ‘Persian Ecologies’ (1742) and  ’Odes’ (1747) His poetry is known for its high imaginative quality. His return to the past and anti intellectualism, his use of superstitions and classical legends make him a precursor of Keats and Coleridge.

7. Thomas Gray (1716-1771) Thomas Gray’s “ Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard ” is rich both in the humanitarian appeal and natural images. It is a subjective poem on nature and humble life.

8. Robert Burns (1759-1796) Burns’ “ Poems Chiefly in the Scottish Dialects  ” are full of lyricism, love for nature. He is a pre-Romantic poet for his sensitivity to nature, his high valuation of feeling and emotion, his spontaneity, his fierce stance for freedom, his individualism, and his interest in old songs and legends.

9. William Blake (1757-1827) Black’s ‘ Songs of Innocence’ and ‘ Songs of Experience’ (1789, 1794) express his love for the simplicity of life. These poems are full of music and lyricism. Here, the poet supports the exploited and the downtrodden people, supports French Revolution.

10.  William Cowper (1731 to 1800) 'The Task' (1785)  Dr Stopford Brooke points out, "Cowper is the first of the poets who loves nature entirely for his own sake."  He wrote poems expressing his love for nature and religion and spiritual aspects of human existence. In this manner, he became the precursor of Wordsworth.

11. Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.