In romantic literature, the self is attracted to nature, piously praises nature and believes in nature. The nature in the eyes of the poets is sublime and sacred. The poets emphasize self, pursue freedom, love nature. Romantics integrate themselves into nature and feel the nature. For example, William expressed his love for nature in his poem “Tintern Abbey”, and Percy Shelley expressed his emotions by describing nature in her poem “Ode to the West Wind”. These beautiful sceneries are the poets’ inner for a beautiful life and a yearning for beautiful nature. Although the romantic poets have different choices of natural images and artistic expressions, natural consciousness is deeply rooted in their poems.
I think you did an excellent job explaining the relationship of nature and self. However, I am interested to hear your thoughts regarding their choice of nature specifically. What is it about nature that propels them to write in such a manner? As we continue to study Romanticism, I hope to better understand the significance of nature as a common theme throughout the poems.
In my opinion, one of the reasons that propels the relationship between romantic and nature is related to the social background at that time. The industrial revolution made many people leave the countryside and live in the city, so they were separated from nature. In addition, I believe it’s due to their strong opposition to enlightenment philosophy, as well as opposition to cultural norms. Many romantic poets believe that nature is the source of health emotions and thoughts, while industrialization and reason are often portrayed as unhealthy source of emotion and thoughts. For example, most of Wordsworth’s poems are about nature, which shows his deep feeling for nature.
I agree with your statement that nature enables Romantic period writers to empathize with human emotions more, showcasing more of the individual. Nature gives us feelings: winter makes us cold, spring brings a fresh new start with life regrowing again. Great analysis between nature and the self!