Wordsworth's Theory of the Child's Unconscious Response to Nature in The Prelude

Abstract

<p>Many critics have emphasized the fact that Wordsworth, as a child, is "unconscious" of his communion with nature. Few, however, attempt to explore the details of this unconscious attitude. Many of those who do study the relationship in depth equate this unconsciousness with passivity.</p> <p>Wordsworth is "unconscious" in two senses of the word. Firstly, he is simply unaware of the fact that he is communing with nature, and that nature is influencing and affecting him in a profound manner. Secondly, he does not realize the part he plays in the relationship. Critics have pointed out the projection of Wordsworth's fear and guilt, of which he is unaware, in the boat-stealing episode, and I believe that this unconscious participation extends to the other childhood incidents described in Books I and II of The Prelude. Thus Wordsworth, as a child, is not passive.</p> <p>This unconscious attitude continues throughout childhood and boyhood until the years of youth, at which time a significant change in Wordsworth's perception takes place. In this thesis I will study this unconscious aspect of the Wordsworth's relationship with nature and the important modifications which occur during youth.</p>