Question

Coleridge never specifically confirms that the character of Geraldine is evil. By citing evidence from the poem (at least 4 examples), justify a reader's interpretation that Geraldine is indeed "evil."

a) "Kubla Khan" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
b) "Ode to a Nightingale" by John Keats
c) "The Prelude" by William Wordsworth
d) "To His Coy Mistress" by Andrew Marvell

Answer 1

The character of Geraldine in Coleridge's poem 'Kubla Khan' can be interpreted as evil based on several examples from the text.

Step-by-step explanation:

The character of Geraldine in Coleridge's poem 'Kubla Khan' can be interpreted as evil based on several examples from the text:

1. In line 22, Geraldine is described as having a 'flashing eye' which can be associated with wickedness or deceit.
2. In line 35, the narrator describes her as having a 'demon's smile' which suggests an ominous and malevolent presence.
3. Later in the poem, Geraldine is seen as a temptress who bewitches the narrator, leading him astray from God's path.
4. Lastly, in lines 155-157, Coleridge writes, 'Her face was of celestial mold, but like a demon's sickle.' This comparison reinforces the idea of Geraldine as an evil force.

These examples support the interpretation that Geraldine is indeed portrayed as evil in the poem 'Kubla Khan' by Samuel Taylor Coleridge.