Catholic imagery in the poetry of Francis Thompson
Abstract
In this study an attempt will be made to explain allusions
drawn from Catholic sources; to clarify the underlying
thought implied in the imagery; furthermore, to illustrate
the qualifying effect ot this imagery upon Thompson's poetry;
but above all to make it possible tor those who do not
possess a specialized knowledge of the Catholic content of hia
writings to understand, appreciate, and enjoy the combination
ot insensuous passion and spiritual fervor, courtly love and
saintly reverence, ecclesiastical pageantry and liturgical
splendor with which Francis Thompson invests his poetry.
The particular images selected tor interpretation will
be relegated to distinctive groups and a chapter devoted to
the discussion of each. Citations from various poems will be
noted to illustrate the figurative allusions; in each instanco
the source of the adaptation will be suggested and when necessary, an explanation of the meaning attached by the poet will
be offered. A general resume at the close of each chapter
will serve to clinoh the points considered and to evaluate
the effect ot the imagery employed.
Table of Contents
Preface -- The heart of childhood -- Symbol of the divine -- Christian philosophy of life -- Language of the liturgy -- One of the Marians -- The eternal Galilean -- The Celestial Kingdom -- The religious mind -- Conclusions -- Bibliography -- Appendix
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-- University of Wichita, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dept. of English