Kean, Mackintosh, and Davy

The work presents a critical examination of notable figures and societal issues, focusing on the interplay between individual talent and broader societal structures. It begins with an analysis of a prominent actor, highlighting his originality yet noting his tendency to self-replicate in performance. The critique suggests that while his acting can be striking, it lacks the depth required for complex roles, such as Othello. The narrative then shifts to Sir James Mackintosh, characterized as a talented yet somewhat superficial intellectual. His ability to engage in elegant conversation is acknowledged, but his insights are deemed lacking in substance. The author reflects on a past conversation with Mackintosh and the scientist Humphry Davy, suggesting that while Davy possessed genuine genius, Mackintosh struggled to fully appreciate original thought. The critique extends to Mackintosh's legal acumen, which is described as overly general and lacking in practical application. Canning is introduced as an irritable figure, whose wit contrasts with his parliamentary demeanor. Lord Liverpool is portrayed as a stabilizing force within the government, though not a visionary leader. The author notes Liverpool's strength lies in his common-sense approach to debate. The discussion then transitions to the national debt, positing that it has disproportionately enriched certain individuals while creating systemic inequities. The metaphor of a dinner party illustrates the precariousness of wealth distribution, suggesting that a sudden rush for resources would leave many without. The examination of poor laws follows, linking their emergence to the growth of commerce and manufacturing. The author argues that these laws are a necessary response to economic realities, with historical context provided regarding Scotland's initial lack of such laws. The critique emphasizes that poor rates are essentially a cost borne by capitalists for labor, with a particular burden placed on agricultural interests. The author advocates for a more equitable system of rate distribution, proposing a fixed period for equalization to address disparities. Overall, the work intertwines personal reflections with broader societal critiques, revealing the complexities of talent, governance, and economic structures.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1818 · Genre: Political Commentary, Biographical Critique, Philosophical Essay · 869 words

First lines

NATIONAL DEBT. -- POOR LAWS.

Kean is original; but he copies from himself. His rapid descents from the hyper-tragic to the infra-colloquial, though sometimes productive of great effect, are often unreasonable. To see him act, is like reading Shakspeare by flashes of lightning. I do not think him thorough-bred gentleman enough to play Othello.

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Kean, Mackintosh, and Davy is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1818 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Essay
• Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• Date: 1818 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Political Commentary, Biographical Critique, Philosophical Essay, Literary Criticism, Historical Analysis
• Length: 869 words
• Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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• Work identity for Kean, Mackintosh, and Davy by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
• Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
• Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters

• What should a reader notice first when entering Kean, Mackintosh, and Davy?
• How does this essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
• Where does Political Commentary first become important in the reading?

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Genres

• Political Commentary — The text discusses national debt and poor laws, reflecting on their implications in society.
• Biographical Critique — The work critiques and reflects on the lives and contributions of Kean, Mackintosh, and Davy.
• Philosophical Essay — The text engages with philosophical ideas, particularly in relation to Locke and Newton.
• Literary Criticism — The author evaluates the artistic merits and shortcomings of theatrical performances and literary figures.

Tags

Samuel Taylor Coleridge · Kean · Mackintosh · Davy · theater · drama · literary criticism · 19th century · British literature · philosophy · national debt · poor laws

More by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

• Expostulation and Reply (1817)
• The Tables Turned (1798)
• Animal Tranquillity and Decay (1816)
• Goody Blake and Harry Gill (1798)
• The Last of the Flock (1815)
• Lines Left Upon a Seat in a Yew-Tree, which Stands Near the Lake of Estwaithe, on a Desolate Part of the Shore, Yet Commanding a Beautiful Prospect (1818)
• The Foster-Mother's Tale (1815)
• The Thorn (1798)
• All works by Samuel Taylor Coleridge