Synge untoe mie Roundelaie the Influence of Chatterton on Keats

Abstract

<p>It is the contention of this thesis that Thomas Chatterton had an artistic and philosophic influence on Keats comparable to that of Shakespeare. By treating first the biographical similarities that exist between the two poets, and then moving into actual artistic influence, the close interrelation of life and art, and the osmotic nature of Keats's organic response to Chatterton reveal themselves. Exciting stylistic and linguistic affinities are to be discovered between Keats and Chatterton, affinities which have either been overlooked or dismissed as irrelevant. In all cases, the affinity between the two poets deepens from the word surface into the meaning of their art.</p> <p>The study of artistic parallels is always. rewarding for it intensifies our understanding of the poets under consideration. My thesis is from the point of view of Keats, and so the comparison has greater ramifications for his art. While Chatterton shows himself a true craftsman, the empathic nature of Keats's artistic response is confirmed. Indeed, if Shakespeare was a good omen to Keats, Chatterton was his silent presider.</p>