Coleridge, Humphrey Davy and Chemistry

Abstract

Coleridge had a great interest in science and scientific phenomena and often attended lectures on science and read scientific treatises. As a result of his great interest in science he often used images and metaphors from chemistry, geology and physiology, among other branches of science. This paper examines Coleridge’s deep interest in chemistry, an interest fostered by his friendship with Humphrey Davy and the influence of this branch of science on his poetry and poetic theories.