Rime of the Ancient Mariner ESSAY

Discuss the symbolism of the albatross in “Rime of the Ancient Mariner”

Definition of symbolism A person, place or object which has a meaning in itself but suggests other meanings as well. Things, characters and actions can be symbols. Anything that suggests a meaning beyond the obvious. For example: bright sunshine symbolizes goodness and water is a symbolic cleanser.

Introduction Topic Sentence T.A.G. Literary element

Topic Sentence Authors use literary elements in their writing to help convey ideas and create understanding

T.A.G. “Rime of the Ancient Mariner” Samuel Taylor Coleridge Narrative poem In ___________’s __________ _________,

Thesis statement… In Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s narrative poem “Rime of the Ancient Mariner”, the author uses symbolism to convey ideas and create understanding.

Thesis statement continued… Initially, the albatross symbolized hope and goodness, and then it symbolized the guilt of the mariner.

First Body Paragraph (notes) Begin by reporting what the bird originally represents in the poem Use a specific quote from the text Document appropriately (Coleridge #) Arrival of the bird Specific examples of how bird brought good luck Sentence or 2 summary of plot to date

First Body paragraph notes continued… Arrival of the bird Specific examples of how bird brought good luck Sentence or 2 summary of plot to date

Transitions between paragraphs… Words that can be used to contrast two things: But, still,although,on the other hand, even though

Transitions between paragraphs… Meanwhile, later,next,afterward, next, suddenly, finally

2nd body paragraph Specific examples of how the symbolism of the albatross CHANGES from good to bad Be sure to summarize plot to date

Body paragraph 2 continued… Describe what the bird’s murder causes and the meaning of hanging the dead bird around the mariner’s neck Use a direct quotation and document

Conclusion Explain when and why the albatross fell from the mariner’s neck Use a direct quote and document (this is optional)

Conclusion continued… Conclude by briefly discussing the meaning of the expression “ having an albatross around one’s neck” and what the mariner’s “albatross” is now.