The Collected Works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Volume 14: Complete 2-Volume Set : Book Review

"The Collected Works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge: Volume 14" is a must-have anthology for anyone interested in the writings of the esteemed author Samuel Taylor Coleridge. This volume focuses specifically on his later works, providing readers with a profound insight into the evolution of his writing style and themes.

Within this anthology, readers will find a diverse range of literary pieces, including essays, lectures, and letters. These writings allow us to delve into Coleridge's thoughts on a variety of subjects and explore his mastery of language and his profound insights. Whether contemplating philosophy or sharing personal experiences, Coleridge's writing is consistently engaging and thought-provoking, making this anthology a valuable resource for both scholars and fans of his work.

One of the standout features of this volume is the inclusion of Coleridge's lectures on Shakespeare, which are highly regarded by literary critics. These lectures demonstrate Coleridge's deep admiration for Shakespeare's genius and provide valuable insights into the works of the Bard. In addition, the anthology features Coleridge's analysis of other literary figures such as Milton and Dryden, offering readers a well-rounded understanding of his literary criticism.

Coleridge's letters, also included in this anthology, offer a unique glimpse into his personal and professional life. They shed light on his relationships and the context in which he wrote his works, adding an intimate touch to the collection. Through these personal correspondences, readers can connect with Coleridge on a deeper level and gain insight into the man behind the famous words.

Overall, "The Collected Works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge: Volume 14" is an essential addition to the library of any enthusiast of Coleridge. Through its carefully curated selection of writings, this anthology illuminates the later period of Coleridge's career, showcasing his brilliance as a writer, philosopher, and critic. From his essays to his lectures and letters, readers will find themselves captivated by Coleridge's words, inspired to explore his vast body of work, and enriched by the profound wisdom he brings to the page.

What are readers saying?

The reception of The Collected Works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge Volume 14 has been varied. In general, reviewers have lauded the collection for its comprehensiveness, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of Coleridge's literary works. However, some readers have voiced concerns about the collection's density and inaccessibility, which they feel hinder their ability to fully appreciate Coleridge's writing.

Reviewers have commended the volume for its depth and breadth, as it encompasses a wide range of genres such as poetry, lectures, and philosophical writings. This comprehensive approach is seen as valuable by readers, as it allows them to delve into Coleridge's diverse interests and understand his contributions to multiple literary fields.

The scholarly annotations included in the collection have also garnered appreciation from readers. These annotations, providing additional context and explanations, help to enhance the understanding of Coleridge's writings. By shedding light on historical and literary references within the text, the annotations facilitate a deeper appreciation for Coleridge's work.

However, some reviewers have found the collection to be challenging to approach. They remark that Coleridge's writing style can be dense and complex, making it difficult for readers without a strong background in literature or philosophy to fully comprehend the content. These readers feel that the absence of contextualization and explanations within the collection itself impedes their understanding and enjoyment of Coleridge's work.

Furthermore, there have been criticisms about the organization of the collection, with some reviewers finding it confusing and disjointed at times. The desire for a more coherent structure, offering easier navigation and a clearer understanding of Coleridge's literary development, has been expressed.

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