Ruth by William Wordsworth (1798)

Name: Ruth
Author: William Wordsworth

The narrative follows a young girl named Ruth, who, after being abandoned by her mother and neglected by her father, finds solace in nature. She grows up in isolation, creating a world of her own through play and imagination. Her life changes when she meets a charming youth from Georgia, who captivates her with tales of adventure and beauty. He proposes a life together in the wilderness, and Ruth, enchanted, agrees to marry him. However, the youth's character is flawed; he is drawn to a life of recklessness and ultimately abandons Ruth before their journey begins. Heartbroken, she descends into madness, spending time in a prison where she sings of her sorrows. After her release, she wanders the countryside, living a solitary life under a tree, still connected to the beauty of nature that once brought her joy. As time passes, Ruth's innocence is overshadowed by her suffering. She becomes a beggar, relying on the kindness of travelers. Her once vibrant spirit is diminished, and she is left with only a simple flute to express her loneliness. The story concludes with a somber reflection on her fate, suggesting that despite her tragic life, she will receive a proper burial and be remembered by the community. The work explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of nature on the human spirit.

By William Wordsworth · First published 1798 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Lyric Poetry · 2,537 words

First lines

When Ruth was left half desolate Her Father took another Mate; And Ruth, not seven years old, A slighted Child, at her own will Went wandering over dale and hill, In thoughtless freedom bold.

And she had made a Pipe of straw, And from that oaten Pipe could draw All sounds of winds and floods; Had built a Bower upon the green, As if she from her birth had been An Infant of the woods.

What this Textopian page supports

Ruth is listed on Textopian as a short story by William Wordsworth, dated 1798 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: William Wordsworth
Date: 1798 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romantic Poetry, Narrative Poetry, Lyric Poetry, Tragic Poetry, Pastoral Poetry
Length: 2,537 words
Structure: 1 section, 63 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Romantic Poetry — The poem embodies the characteristics of Romanticism, focusing on nature, emotion, and individual experience.
Narrative Poetry — The poem tells a story about Ruth's life, her love, and her subsequent hardships.
Lyric Poetry — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, particularly through Ruth's experiences and feelings.
Tragic Poetry — The themes of loss, abandonment, and suffering in Ruth's life contribute to a tragic narrative.