The politics of romanticism

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This collection explores the intersection of Romanticism and politics through various lenses. It begins with an introduction discussing the political dimensions of Romantic thought. The essays delve into themes of dissent, examining the evolution from religious liberty to radicalism. Key works, such as William Godwin's "Travels of St Leon," are analyzed for their skepticism and critique of societal norms. Charlotte Smith's writings are highlighted, particularly in relation to exile and the precariousness of hospitality. The political landscapes of Wordsworth and Coleridge in the 1790s are also examined, alongside a poetic dialogue between John Thelwall and Coleridge that reflects on retirement and political engagement. Further contributions address political myth-making, national identity, and the implications of the First Opium War on Romantic nationalism. The influence of Polish culture and Romanian identity in the context of Romanticism is explored, alongside a discussion of allegorical realism in the works of Brecht and Benjamin. The collection concludes with analyses of Shelley’s political verse and the narrative performance in John Galt's "The Entail," as well as John Thelwall’s vision for the future. Each essay provides a nuanced understanding of how Romanticism engages with political discourse, reflecting the era's complexities and contradictions.