Wordsworth was conservative and conventional throughout his life. True False
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is False.
William Wordsworth, one of the most famous Romantic poets, was not consistently conservative and conventional throughout his life. While he did have some conventional views in his early years, particularly influenced by the social and political climate of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, his overall outlook evolved significantly. Early in his career, Wordsworth was heavily influenced by the ideals of the French Revolution, which sought freedom, equality, and fraternity. He initially expressed strong support for revolutionary ideals, hoping that social change would improve the condition of the common people.
However, as he grew older, Wordsworth’s political views shifted. He became more disillusioned with the violence and chaos that followed the revolution, leading him to become more conservative in his later years. His later works reflect a more introspective and nostalgic view of nature, human life, and society, which contrasted with his earlier radical ideals. This shift was influenced by various personal and political factors, including the rise of industrialization, which he saw as a threat to the natural world and human well-being.
Despite his eventual conservatism, Wordsworth’s works still retain a deep sense of individualism and a profound connection to nature, which were central themes of the Romantic movement. His later poetry often emphasized the importance of personal experience and emotion, which made him a key figure in the Romantic rebellion against the strict conventions of classical literature.
In summary, Wordsworth was not consistently conservative and conventional. His early enthusiasm for revolution gave way to a more conservative outlook in his later life, but his works reflect a deep engagement with the changing world around him, both politically and philosophically.