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Xanadu is a term derived from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem "Kubla Khan", which describes the legendary palace of Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan and the powerful ruler of the Mongol Empire. In Coleridge's poem, Xanadu is depicted as an opulent, exotic, and fantastical place, filled with lush gardens, sacred rivers, and grand architectural splendor. Over time, the term "Xanadu" has come to symbolize an idealized, luxurious, or utopian paradise, often associated with great wealth and grandeur. The imagery of Xanadu evokes a dreamlike realm, blending historical elements with a sense of otherworldly beauty and mystique.
Coleridge’s "Kubla Khan" begins with the lines, "In Xanadu did Kubla Khan / A stately pleasure-dome decree."
When you read a poem, look for patterns that match Xanadu. Note where it appears (line breaks, stanza positions), how often it repeats, and what emotion or emphasis it creates. Try underlining each instance, then ask: what changes if it’s removed?
A common mistake is confusing Xanadu with nearby concepts listed in ‘See also.’ Always check its defining feature: the formal rule or effect that makes it Xanadu, not just a similar device.
In essays, define Xanadu briefly, cite a short quotation, and explain the *specific* effect on tone, pacing, or imagery. Tie the effect to the poem’s theme rather than describing the device in isolation.
Which line uses Xanadu most clearly?
Tip: pick the line that shows the device’s defining feature.