Rime of the Ancient Mariner

Rime of the Ancient Mariner ESSAY

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

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. Definition of symbolism 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.

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)

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.

Rime of the Ancient Mariner