Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an English poet, literary critic, philosopher, and theologian, known as a founder of the Romantic Movement in England and a member of the Lake Poets together with his friend William Wordsworth. He collaborated with well-known figures such as Charles Lamb, Robert Southey, and Charles Lloyd.

Coleridge is renowned for his poems The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Kubla Khan, as well as his major prose work Biographia Literaria. His critical works held significant influence, particularly in relation to William Shakespeare, and he played a role in introducing German idealist philosophy to English-speaking cultures. Notably, he coined the famous phrase "suspension of disbelief".

Despite his literary achievements, Coleridge struggled with severe anxiety and depression throughout his life, conditions speculated to be related to bipolar disorder. His physical health issues, potentially stemming from childhood illnesses, were treated with laudanum, leading to a lifelong opium addiction.

Though his career and personal life were marked by turbulence, his public esteem increased posthumously. He is now regarded as one of the most influential figures in English literature, celebrated for his genius and impact. The Church of England even commemorates his work with events such as "Coleridge Day" featuring literary recitals.