Analysis of the Treatment of Supernatural Elements in The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner by S. T. Coleridge

Supernatural is an ever present force in the history of English literature. From the old history of English literature to the contemporary writings, it is one of the themes. Among the English Romanticists of the first generation, Samuel Taylor Coleridge possesses the most vigorous mind. He goes to the supernatural. This research article focuses on the analysis of Coleridge's treatment of supernatural elements in the light of his famous concept of poetic faith, the willing suspension of disbelief with special reference to his ballad The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. His creative supernatural elements become credible and convincing in the hands of Coleridge. He acquires from the reader the willing suspension of disbelief and establishes poetic faith. This paper explores that Coleridge's treatment of supernatural remains psychological phenomena. He gives a new dimension to this supernatural activity. He shows complete departure form contemporary writers in employing the supernatural elements. He has connected the supernatural elements to human reality. His explanations to things are not descriptive rather than suggestive to show the mystery. The presentation of unseen things comes in front of the readers as seen and vivid through colour of imagination and different from the Gothic setting.