“A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge was first published in 1829 in the collection “Sibylline Leaves.” The poem is notable for its lyrical quality, its focus on the human side of the Nativity story, and its critique of war. Coleridge emphasizes the contrast between the peaceful birth of Jesus and the destructive nature of war, highlighting the Virgin Mary’s joy at the birth of the Prince of Peace and her condemnation of war’s violence and suffering.

Text: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

I.

   The Shepherds went their hasty way,
        And found the lowly stable-shed
   Where the Virgin-Mother lay:
        And now they checked their eager tread,
For to the Babe, that at her bosom clung,
A Mother’s song the Virgin-Mother sung.

II.

   They told her how a glorious light,
         Streaming from a heavenly throng,
   Around them shone, suspending night!
         While sweeter than a Mother’s song,
Blest Angels heralded the Saviour’s birth,
Glory to God on high! and Peace on Earth.

III.

   She listened to the tale divine,
         And closer still the Babe she pressed;
   And while she cried, the Babe is mine!
         The milk rushed faster to her breast:
Joy rose within her, like a summer’s morn;
Peace, Peace on Earth! the Prince of Peace is born.

IV.

   Thou Mother of the Prince of Peace,
         Poor, simple, and of low estate!
   That Strife should vanish, Battle cease,
         O why should this thy soul elate?
Sweet Music’s loudest note, the Poet’s story,—
Did’st thou ne’er love to hear of Fame and Glory?

V.

   And is not War a youthful King,
         A stately Hero clad in Mail?
   Beneath his footsteps laurels spring;
         Him Earth’s majestic monarchs hail
Their Friend, their Playmate! and his bold bright eye
Compels the maiden’s love-confessing sigh.

VI.

   “Tell this in some more courtly scene,
         “To maids and youths in robes of state!
   “I am a woman poor and mean,
         “And therefore is my Soul elate.
“War is a ruffian, all with guilt defiled,
“That from the aged Father tears his Child!

VII.

   “A murderous fiend, by fiends adored,
         “He kills the Sire and starves the Son;
   “The Husband kills, and from her board
         “Steals all his Widow’s toil had won;
“Plunders God’s world of beauty; rends away
“All safety from the Night, all comfort from the Day.

VIII.

   “Then wisely is my soul elate,
         “That Strife should vanish, Battle cease:
   “I’m poor and of a low estate,
         “The Mother of the Prince of Peace.
“Joy rises in me, like a summer’s morn:
“Peace, Peace on Earth, the Prince of Peace is born.”   

Annotations: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Stanza	Annotation
I	The shepherds, symbolic of the humble, hurry to the stable where the Virgin Mary, representing purity and grace, sings a song to the newborn Jesus. This stanza reflects the simplicity of the nativity and the maternal love Mary has for the Christ child.
II	The shepherds recount their divine experience to Mary, describing how a heavenly light and angelic choir heralded the birth of the Savior. The “Glory to God on high” and “Peace on Earth” encapsulates the message of Christ’s arrival as the Prince of Peace.
III	Mary listens to the story and expresses maternal joy, pressing the infant closer. Her connection to the child is both physical and spiritual, signifying divine joy, peace, and fulfillment as the Prince of Peace is born. The phrase “like a summer’s morn” evokes warmth and happiness.
IV	This stanza shifts focus to Mary’s humility. The speaker contrasts Mary’s lowly status with the glorification of war and fame. The poet asks why Mary, who lives a simple life, should be elated by the thought of an end to conflict. The stanza reflects the purity of Mary’s life, untouched by desires for worldly glory.
V	War is personified as a “youthful King” glorified by earthly rulers, with the image of laurels (a symbol of victory) springing from his footsteps. This glorification contrasts with Mary’s understanding of peace and simplicity, portraying the allure of war as seductive but dangerous.
VI	Mary rejects the glorification of war, seeing it instead as a force of destruction and sorrow. She views herself as “poor and mean” but still elated because she embodies the values of peace. War is described as a “ruffian,” showing its brutal and destructive nature, in contrast to the peace Christ brings.
VII	War is further demonized as a “murderous fiend” that brings death, suffering, and destruction. The stanza focuses on war’s impact on the family, community, and creation, highlighting its total devastation. This reinforces the contrast between war and the peace symbolized by the birth of Christ.
VIII	Mary concludes with an affirmation of peace. Her joy comes from the birth of the Prince of Peace, not from wealth or status. The final lines echo the opening message of peace, reinforcing the central theme of the poem: the birth of Christ brings hope for a world without war and suffering.

Literary And Poetic Devices: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge 

Device	Definition	Example	Explanation
Alliteration	The repetition of initial consonant sounds in words that are close together.	“Poor, simple, and of low estate!”	The repetition of the “p” sound creates a sense of rhythm and emphasis.
Allusion	A reference to a famous person, place, thing, or event.	“Glory to God on high! and Peace on Earth.”	This is an allusion to the angels’ proclamation in the Gospel of Luke.
Antithesis	The juxtaposition of contrasting ideas or images.	“War is a ruffian, all with guilt defiled.”	The contrast between war’s brutality and the innocence of the newborn Jesus is emphasized.
Apostrophe	Addressing a person or thing that is not present.	“Thou Mother of the Prince of Peace,”	Coleridge directly addresses the Virgin Mary, creating a sense of intimacy.
Assonance	The repetition of vowel sounds in words that are close together.	“And closer still the Babe she pressed.”	The repetition of the “o” sound creates a soothing and melodic effect.
Consonance	The repetition of consonant sounds within words.	“A Mother’s song the Virgin-Mother sung.”	The repetition of the “m” and “s” sounds creates a sense of rhythm and emphasis.
Hyperbole	An exaggeration used for effect.	“Plunders God’s world of beauty.”	Coleridge exaggerates the destructive power of war.
Imagery	The use of vivid language to create mental images.	“Joy rose within her, like a summer’s morn.”	Coleridge uses imagery to depict the Virgin Mary’s feelings of joy.
Irony	A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens.	“Then wisely is my soul elate, / That Strife should vanish, Battle cease.”	The Virgin Mary’s joy at the end of war is ironic, given the suffering it causes.
Metaphor	A comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as.”	“War is a ruffian.”	Coleridge compares war to a violent and lawless person.
Metonymy	The use of a name of a thing to represent something closely associated with it.	“The Husband kills, and from her board / Steals all his Widow’s toil had won.”	“Board” is used to represent a home or livelihood.
Onomatopoeia	The use of words that imitate sounds.	“The milk rushed faster to her breast.”	The word “rushed” imitates the sound of milk flowing.
Oxymoron	A combination of contradictory terms.	“A stately Hero clad in Mail.”	The phrase “stately Hero” is oxymoronic, as heroes are often associated with humility.
Paradox	A statement that seems contradictory but expresses a truth.	“She listened to the tale divine, / And closer still the Babe she pressed.”	The Virgin Mary’s joy at the birth of Jesus is paradoxical, given the suffering he will endure.
Personification	Giving human qualities to non-human things.	“War is a youthful King.”	Coleridge gives war human characteristics, making it a more tangible enemy.
Repetition	The repeated use of words, phrases, or lines.	“Peace, Peace on Earth!”	The repetition of “Peace” emphasizes the importance of peace.
Simile	A comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.”	“Joy rose within her, like a summer’s morn.”	Coleridge compares the Virgin Mary’s joy to the beauty of a summer morning.
Symbolism	The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.	The Virgin Mary symbolizes motherhood and purity.
Syntax	The arrangement of words in a sentence.	“Then wisely is my soul elate,”	The inverted syntax creates a sense of urgency and emphasis.
Tone	The attitude of the speaker toward the subject matter.	The tone of the poem is one of reverence and compassion.

Themes: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

1. The Power of Love and Compassion: Coleridge emphasizes the transformative power of love and compassion, particularly in the context of the Virgin Mary’s devotion to her child and her condemnation of war. Her unwavering love and compassion for Jesus, even in the face of adversity, serve as a powerful example of the positive impact that these qualities can have on the world.
2. The Contrast Between Innocence and War: The poem starkly contrasts the innocence and purity of the newborn Jesus with the brutality and destruction of war. Coleridge uses vivid imagery to depict the horrors of war, highlighting its impact on individuals and families. This contrast serves to underscore the moral imperative of peace and the importance of protecting the innocent.
3. The Role of Women in Society: The poem challenges traditional gender roles by portraying the Virgin Mary as a strong and independent woman. She is presented as a wise and compassionate figure who is able to challenge the destructive forces of war. Coleridge’s portrayal of Mary as a powerful and influential woman is a significant departure from the more submissive roles often assigned to women in religious texts.
4. The Importance of Peace: The poem is a powerful call to peace, emphasizing the destructive nature of war and the need for humanity to strive for a more peaceful and harmonious world. Coleridge’s vivid descriptions of war’s horrors serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of conflict and the importance of working towards a more just and equitable society.

Literary Theories and “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Literary Theory	Explanation	Supporting References from the Poem
Feminist Theory	Explores gender roles and Mary’s representation as a nurturing, peaceful figure. Contrasts feminine virtues of peace and humility with the male glorification of war.	– Stanza IV: “Did’st thou ne’er love to hear of Fame and Glory?” (Mary rejects war and fame, traditionally male-dominated ideals). – Stanza VI: “War is a ruffian…guilt defiled.” (Critiques the destructive effects of war on families).
Christian Symbolism and Religious Criticism	Focuses on Christian themes, particularly the contrast between Christ’s role as the “Prince of Peace” and humanity’s glorification of violence and war.	– Stanza II: “Glory to God on high! and Peace on Earth.” (Angels herald Christ as a symbol of divine peace). – Stanza VIII: “Peace, Peace on Earth, the Prince of Peace is born.” (Mary’s declaration of Christ’s message of peace).
Romanticism	Emphasizes nature, emotion, and peace. Critiques war, aligns with Romantic values of simplicity, peace, and natural harmony.	– Stanza III: “Joy rose within her, like a summer’s morn.” (Romantic imagery of nature representing peace and joy). – Stanza V: “A youthful King…compels the maiden’s love-confessing sigh.” (Critiques the glorification of war in contrast to peace).

Critical Questions about “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

• How does Coleridge’s portrayal of the Virgin Mary challenge traditional gender roles?
• Coleridge presents the Virgin Mary as a strong and independent woman, challenging traditional gender roles that often relegated women to submissive positions. Her ability to challenge the destructive forces of war and her unwavering devotion to her child demonstrate her strength and agency. How does this portrayal contribute to the poem’s overall message?
• What is the significance of the contrast between the innocence of the newborn Jesus and the brutality of war?
• The poem starkly contrasts the purity and innocence of Jesus with the violence and destruction of war. How does this contrast serve to underscore the moral imperative of peace and the importance of protecting the innocent? What does this contrast reveal about Coleridge’s views on humanity and the potential for good and evil?
• How does Coleridge’s use of imagery contribute to the poem’s emotional impact?
• Coleridge employs vivid imagery to create powerful mental pictures of both the beauty of the Nativity scene and the horrors of war. How does this imagery contribute to the poem’s emotional impact and enhance its message? What specific images are particularly effective in conveying Coleridge’s intended meaning?
• What is the significance of the poem’s focus on the human side of the Nativity story?
• Unlike many religious accounts of the Nativity, Coleridge focuses on the human experiences of the Virgin Mary and the shepherds. How does this focus contribute to the poem’s emotional resonance and its ability to connect with readers on a personal level? What does this focus reveal about Coleridge’s understanding of faith and spirituality?

Literary Works Similar to “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

• “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore: Both poems evoke the spirit of Christmas and feature supernatural elements, such as angelic visitations and magical transformations.
• “The Christmas Truce” by John McCrae: Both poems explore themes of peace and reconciliation, especially during times of conflict.
• “O Holy Night” by Adolphe Adam (lyrics by Placide Cappeau): Both works celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope and joy it brings to the world.
• “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard and Richard Smith: Both poems evoke the magical atmosphere of Christmastime and the beauty of winter landscapes.
• “Silent Night” by Franz Gruber (lyrics by Joseph Mohr): Both poems emphasize the peaceful and serene nature of Christmas Eve and the power of faith and hope.

Suggested Readings: “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Books:

Representative Quotations of “A Christmas Carol” by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Quotation	Context	Theoretical Perspective
“The Shepherds went their hasty way, / And found the lowly stable-shed / Where the Virgin-Mother lay”	The shepherds, representing humility, hurry to witness the birth of Christ in a humble stable.	Christian Symbolism: Emphasizes Christ’s birth in a humble setting.
“Glory to God on high! and Peace on Earth.”	Angels proclaim the birth of Christ, symbolizing the coming of peace and redemption.	Christian Symbolism: Proclaims divine peace through Christ.
“Joy rose within her, like a summer’s morn;”	Mary feels deep joy after the birth of Christ, reflecting maternal love and peace.	Romanticism: Nature metaphor symbolizes peace and joy.
“Peace, Peace on Earth! the Prince of Peace is born.”	Mary declares that with the birth of Christ, peace has come to Earth.	Christian Symbolism: Christ as the Prince of Peace.
“War is a ruffian, all with guilt defiled, / That from the aged Father tears his Child!”	Mary critiques the destruction of war, contrasting it with her role as a nurturing mother.	Feminist Theory: War’s devastation affects families, esp. women.
“A murderous fiend, by fiends adored, / He kills the Sire and starves the Son;”	War is depicted as a violent force that destroys families, leaving widows and orphans.	Feminist Theory: Emphasizes war’s destructive impact on the vulnerable.
“That Strife should vanish, Battle cease, / O why should this thy soul elate?”	The speaker questions why Mary, a figure of humility, would find joy in the end of war, contrasting her peaceful nature with the glorification of war.	Romanticism: Reflects on peace as a natural state.
“Did’st thou ne’er love to hear of Fame and Glory?”	The speaker questions whether Mary, in her simplicity, ever cared for the ideas of fame and glory, traditionally associated with war and heroism.	Feminist Theory: Mary rejects male-centered ideals of fame and war.
“The Husband kills, and from her board / Steals all his Widow’s toil had won;”	War takes away not only life but also the hard-earned sustenance of widows, emphasizing the devastation it causes to those left behind.	Feminist Theory: Focuses on the social impact of war on women.
“I’m poor and of a low estate, / The Mother of the Prince of Peace.”	Mary identifies herself as humble and lowly, yet finds joy in being the mother of Christ, who brings peace to the world.	Christian Symbolism: Humility and peace through Christ’s birth.