Samuel Taylor Coleridge and John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress': Symbol and allegory as literary representations of redemption

The tension Coleridge creates between symbol and allegory in The Statesman's Manual provides the foundation for his privileging the former over the latter. Within this work, Coleridge delineates the distinction between these two literary devices. Even though Coleridge's definition creates a clear separation between allegory and symbol, the reality is that at times the distinction blurs. What appears to be paradoxical is Coleridge's acclaim of John Bunyan's allegorical work Pilgrim's Progress, which he extols second only to the Bible as a sure guide for salvation. This dissertation attempts to reconcile Coleridge's views on symbol and allegory, while gaining a better understanding of his stance on a literary portrayal of redemption.;The first chapter discusses the history and progression of Coleridge's understanding of allegory and symbol, along with a delineation of Kant and Schelling's philosophies, for their influence on Coleridge's thought. Additionally, part of this chapter briefly discusses Bunyan's use of allegory and symbol. Chapter Two begins with a brief survey of the Protestant Reformation, including the primary theological changes that it brought with it. This chapter focuses on Bunyan's theological progression, with special attention paid to the influence Luther had on his understanding of salvation and faith.;The third chapter is devoted to the work of The Pilgrim's Progress in its entirety: as an allegory, as a reflection of its contemporary and current Reformed theology, and also as a guide for experimental Christianity. Additionally, this chapter explores the relationship between Bunyan's writing and Coleridge's critical thought. The fourth chapter examines selected works of Coleridge that specifically involve his prominent using of allegory and symbol. The poetry selections reflect his literary usage of symbol and allegory, and the prose selection demonstrates his philosophical positions concerning the same. Together, the third and fourth chapters discuss the theological and literary implications of the works of both authors, and are followed by the conclusion in the fifth chapter.