A symbiotic relationship: Anna Barbauld's ideal of moral progress through science and imagination.

摘要

Anna Letitia Barbauld's work mediates between the extremes of Enlightenment rationalism and Romantic imagination. Through readings of some of her scientifically focused poetry, such as "The Mouse's Petition," "An Inventory of the Furniture in Dr. Priestley's Study," "To Mr. S. T. Coleridge," "Washing-Day," and "The Invitation," as well as the prose work, "Hill of Science: A Dream-Vision," this thesis demonstrates how Barbauld saw science and poetry, reason and imagination, as symbiotic, mutually dependent concepts integral to society's political, cultural, and social well being. These works are discussed in the context of her Dissenting background, her friendship with Joseph Priestley, and her commitment to the educational principles of the Warrington Academy. The thesis examines Barbauld's sympathetic evaluation of the merits and shortcomings of scientific objectivity and imaginative subjectivity and focuses on her fundamental goal of promoting moral responsibility and integrity in the actions of scientists and poets alike.