Negro Emancipation
The work critiques the motivations and implications behind the legislative act aimed at abolishing slavery. It expresses skepticism about the sincerity of the movement, suggesting that it is driven more by fear of political repercussions than by a genuine commitment to human rights. The author questions the effectiveness of the proposed changes, fearing they may lead to unintended negative consequences for both the enslaved and society at large. The text highlights a perceived disconnect between moral imperatives and political actions, emphasizing the absence of divine guidance or moral conviction in the decision-making process. The author laments the reliance on human reasoning, which he views as inadequate in addressing such a profound moral issue. The mention of the "Dissenting interest" suggests a critique of religious factions that may prioritize their agendas over the broader cause of emancipation. Throughout the work, there is a tension between hope for progress and a deep-seated fear of failure. The author grapples with the complexities of emancipation, recognizing the potential for both liberation and chaos. The narrative reflects a broader societal struggle with the concept of freedom, questioning whether true emancipation can be achieved through legislative means alone. The work ultimately serves as a cautionary reflection on the nature of reform, urging a more profound engagement with ethical principles and a reliance on spiritual guidance to navigate the tumultuous waters of social change. It calls for a deeper understanding of the human condition and the moral responsibilities that accompany the pursuit of justice and equality.
By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1853 · Genre: Political Commentary, Social Critique, Philosophical Essay · 129 words
First lines
Have you been able to discover any principle in this Emancipation Bill for the Slaves, except a principle of fear of the abolition party struggling with a dread of causing some monstrous calamity to the empire at large? Well! I will not prophesy; and God grant that this tremendous and unprecedented act of positive enactment may not do the harm to the cause of humanity and freedom which I cannot but fear! But yet, what can be hoped, when all human wisdom and counsel are set at nought, and religious faith -- the only miraculous agent amongst men -- is not invoked or regarded! and that most unblest phrase -- the Dissenting _interest_ -- enters into the question!
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Negro Emancipation is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1853 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: 1853 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Commentary, Social Critique, Philosophical Essay, Historical Analysis, Literary Criticism
- Length: 129 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Genres
- Political Commentary — The text discusses the implications of the Emancipation Bill and critiques the political motivations behind it.
- Social Critique — The work addresses social issues related to slavery and the moral responsibilities of society.
- Philosophical Essay — The author reflects on human wisdom, faith, and the broader implications of emancipation.
- Historical Analysis — The text provides context regarding the historical moment of emancipation and its potential consequences.
Tags
emancipation · slavery · human rights · freedom · abolition · Coleridge · political discourse · empire · humanity · fear · religious faith · dissent
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