What could the Bright Star have been?
http://www.johnfrawley.com/Bright_Star.htm
Great question Raphael. Indeed, what was the "star' that seems to have triggered Keats' poem? I never really thought about it. The article actually takes more of an "astrological" approach, than an "astronomical" approach. I don't mean to quibble here. There is a big difference between the two.
Interesting article, but I can't see Keats writing any poem stemming from detailed astrological exegesis on the level depicted by this author (Frawley). Greek mythology - sure. Granted, that Greek myth is also tied with astrology. We can all see the integration of Keats' Greek mythological background informing his work. But I think this article overreaches its grasp. I certainly am not aware of any significant detailed astrological musings in Keats' letters. Perhaps this is a sticky wicket because of the collusion of Greek myth with astrology. Just my own musings on this. If I had time, I wouldn't mind checking into this more.
I wonder if the "star" were Rigel in the constellation "Orion" (out in the Winter sky) or Sirius, the brightest star in the northern winter? It could also be the star Vega in the constellation "Cygnus" (which is part of the 'Summer Triangle'). These are my best candidates since they are the brightest stars in the northern sky. And yes, these are all astronomical objects you can find in any astronomy textbook.
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