Comment on the various texts of The Prelude. (MEG 102) (UNIT 13 THE PRELUDE BOOK.1)

The Prelude, an autobiographical poem by William Wordsworth, exists in multiple versions. The poem was started in 1798 when Wordsworth was in Germany, and it underwent multiple revisions and additions until it was published posthumously in 1850. The various texts of The Prelude include:

The 1799 and 1805 texts: These early versions were smaller and less detailed than the final version. They focused mainly on Wordsworth's experiences with nature and his childhood memories.

The 1814 text: This version was expanded and more structured than the earlier versions. It had twelve books instead of ten, and Wordsworth added more philosophical and reflective passages. It also includes more about his experiences in Europe and his involvement in the French Revolution.

The 1850 text: This is the final version of The Prelude, published after Wordsworth's death. It was edited by Wordsworth's wife, Mary, and his literary executor, John Wordsworth. It combines the best of the earlier versions and is considered to be the definitive text.

The various texts of The Prelude show Wordsworth's evolution as a poet and thinker. The earlier versions were more focused on nature and childhood memories, while the later versions included more philosophical and political ideas. The final version is considered to be the most complete and polished.

Wordsworth's role in the Romantic Revival was significant. Along with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, he published the Lyrical Ballads in 1798, which is considered the manifesto of the Romantic Movement. Wordsworth's poetry emphasized the beauty of nature and the importance of emotion and individual experience. He rejected the strict rules and conventions of traditional poetry and wrote in a simpler, more natural language. Wordsworth's poetry was also political, and he was inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution.

In conclusion, The Prelude exists in multiple versions, and the various texts show Wordsworth's evolution as a poet and thinker. Wordsworth's role in the Romantic Revival was significant, and his poetry emphasized the beauty of nature and the importance of emotion and individual experience.