Coleridge and the Armoury of the Human Mind

This collection offers critical insights into Coleridge's prose and his literary influences, showcasing the depth of his intellectual contributions in Coleridge and the Armoury of the Human Mind.

First published in 1991, Coleridge and the Armoury of the Human Mind presents a diverse collection of insightful scholarship focused on the prose of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Esteemed specialists in Romantic literature delve into various aspects of Coleridge's critical practices, offering broad evaluations that highlight his contributions to literary criticism. The book also explores the significance of Coleridge's autobiography, Biographia Literaria, revealing its profound impact on his contemporaries and its role in shaping literary discourse.

In addition to examining Coleridge's critical methodologies, the essays within this volume investigate the influences that shaped his early political and religious dissent. The text discusses the effects of Milton and the radical polemicists from the English Civil War, showcasing how these figures informed Coleridge's thought processes. Moreover, the book highlights the evolution of Coleridge's beliefs, particularly his transition from the conjectural millenarianism of his youth to a more nuanced interpretation of prophecy and symbolic narratives.

Overall, Coleridge and the Armoury of the Human Mind serves as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Romantic literature, offering a comprehensive look at Coleridge's intellectual landscape. The essays not only illuminate the intricacies of his prose but also reflect the broader cultural and historical contexts that influenced his work.