What is the Reaper Singing? Spatial Writing of “The Solitary Reaper” and the Construction of Britain’s Identity

Abstract

This essay explores the song of the wheat-cutting woman in Wordsworth’s “The Solitary Reaper” through the lens of literary geography. Through the interpretation of the poem, it reveals the relationship between England and Scotland and historical reflection contained in it. Through the analysis of real space, imaginary space and dominant space, we explore how the song of the wheat-cutting girl in poetry can become the carrier of historical and cultural memory. Research shows that the geographical and cultural characteristics of Scotland are shown in delicate brushstrokes in the poem, and the complex historical relationship between England and Scotland is also conveyed secretly and deeply through the song of the wheat-cutting girl.