Who among the following Romantic poets defined the poetic faith as being constituted by ‘the willing suspension of disbelief’?

Correct option is B

S.T. Coleridge, one of the most influential Romantic poets and critics, introduced the concept of "willing suspension of disbelief" in his work Biographia Literaria (1817). He defined poetic faith as the reader’s ability to temporarily accept improbable or fantastical elements within literature or poetry. This suspension allows the audience to immerse themselves in the narrative or emotional truth of a work, despite its departure from realism. Coleridge argued that this process is essential for the enjoyment and appreciation of creative art, as it bridges the gap between imagination and understanding.

Information Booster

1. Poetic faithis necessary for engaging with fictional or fantastical art forms.
2. It requires a conscious decision to accept imaginative elements.
3. Coleridge emphasized the role of the poet’s imagination in evoking emotional truth.
4. This concept influenced later literary theories on reader engagement and narrative immersion.
5. The idea is applicable across genres, including poetry, novels, theater, and film.
6. Coleridge’s work exemplified this through blending supernatural elements with deep emotional resonance.