Origin of Acts and Love

Name: Origin of Acts and Love
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work explores the nature of human conduct, particularly focusing on the dichotomy between angelic and bestial impulses. It posits that when actions cannot be attributed to higher virtues or base instincts, they may stem from a more sinister, fiendish source. The text emphasizes the importance of passion, suggesting that passion devoid of appetite is inherently negative. A central theme is the transformative power of love, particularly its ability to ground individuals in reality. The author argues that genuine, unselfish love can awaken a sense of truth and purpose in those who are skeptical or lost. This emotional awakening is presented as a pathway to rational thought, contrasting mere intellectual musings with a deeper, more meaningful engagement with life. The work also references the wisdom of historical figures, such as William Penn, who advocates for marrying solely for love, while cautioning to ensure that the object of affection is worthy. This highlights the necessity of discernment in love, suggesting that true love should be directed towards what is inherently good and beautiful. Overall, the text serves as a philosophical meditation on the interplay between love, reason, and moral conduct, urging readers to seek authentic connections that elevate the human experience. It critiques superficial relationships and underscores the significance of love as a catalyst for personal growth and understanding.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1834 · Genre: Philosophical Literature, Romanticism, Essays · 173 words

First lines

If a man's conduct cannot be ascribed to the angelic, nor to the bestial within him, what is there left for us to refer to it, but the fiendish? Passion without any appetite is fiendish.

The best way to bring a clever young man, who has become sceptical and unsettled, to reason, is to make him _feel_ something in any way. Love, if sincere and unworldly, will, in nine instances out of ten, bring him to a sense and assurance of something real and actual; and that sense alone will make him _think_ to a sound purpose, instead of dreaming that he is thinking.

"Never marry but for love," says William Penn in his Reflexions and Maxims; "but see that thou lovest what is lovely. "

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Origin of Acts and Love is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1834 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1834 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Literature, Romanticism, Essays, Literary Criticism, Spiritual Literature
Length: 173 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Philosophical Literature — The text explores deep questions about human conduct, morality, and the nature of love, characteristic of philosophical inquiry.
Romanticism — The emphasis on love as a sincere and unworldly force aligns with Romantic ideals, focusing on emotion and individual experience.
Essays — The work presents reflective thoughts and arguments, typical of essay writing, particularly on themes of love and morality.
Literary Criticism — The analysis of love and human behavior can be seen as a critique of societal norms and expectations.