Milton's Egotism and Sterne

Name: Milton's Egotism and Sterne
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work examines the intense egotism present in the poetry of Milton, suggesting that his characters—Satan, Adam, Raphael, and Eve—are reflections of himself. This egotism is portrayed as a revelation of spirit, enhancing the reading experience. The author also discusses Claudian, highlighting his role as a bridge between classical and modern poetic sensibilities, noting his ability to express the same thought in varied language, particularly in his work "Phoenix." The critique extends to Sterne, particularly the first part of "Tristram Shandy," which is praised for its individuality and delightful characters, such as Trim and the Shandies. However, the latter part of the work and "Sentimental Journey" are dismissed as lacking substance and being overly affected. The author acknowledges Sterne's moral shortcomings but argues that they are unlikely to negatively influence readers who are already predisposed to such views. The oddities and learned quirks in Sterne's writing are seen as mitigating factors, although the work is deemed unsuitable for women due to its content. The author maintains a clear distinction between the genuine depth of "Tristram Shandy" and the superficiality of "Sentimental Journey," emphasizing the former's truth and reality.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1811 · Genre: Literary Criticism, Philosophical Literature, Poetry Analysis · 639 words

First lines

In the Paradise Lost -- indeed in every one of his poems -- it is Milton himself whom you see; his Satan, his Adam, his Raphael, almost his Eve -- are all John Milton; and it is a sense of this intense egotism that gives me the greatest pleasure in reading Milton's works. The egotism of such a man is a revelation of spirit.

What this Textopian page supports

Milton's Egotism and Sterne is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1811 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: 1811 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Criticism, Philosophical Literature, Poetry Analysis, Character Study, Comparative Literature
Length: 639 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Milton's Egotism and Sterne 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
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Milton's Egotism and Sterne?
How does this essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Criticism first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Criticism — The work analyzes and critiques the literary styles and themes of Milton and Sterne.
Philosophical Literature — It explores themes of egotism and individuality in the context of literary works.
Poetry Analysis — The text discusses poetic elements and styles, particularly in relation to Milton's works.
Character Study — It examines the characters created by Sterne and their individual traits.