In 'The Rhyme Of The Ancient Mariner', the bird that is shot is an albatross.

First published in 1798, 'The Rhyme Of The Ancient Mariner' is a famous narrative poem written by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The poem tells the story of a mariner who is cursed after shooting an innocent albatross while sailing through the South Pole.

The albatross, often considered a symbol of good luck and a guide for sailors, is shot by the mariner without any valid reason. This act of senseless violence against a creature that had been following the ship for days brings upon a series of supernatural events and misfortunes for the mariner and his crew.

The shooting of the albatross is seen as a violation of nature and brings about a terrible curse. The mariner is forced to wear the dead bird around his neck as a constant reminder of his guilt and the consequences of his actions. The crew members, initially supportive of the mariner's act, soon turn against him as they face the wrath of the spirits that control the sea and winds.

The death of the albatross is not only a turning point in the poem but also a powerful symbol of the loss of innocence and the destructive consequences of human actions. The mariner is left alone to face the consequences of his impulsive act, wandering the seas and witnessing the deaths of his crewmates. He is eventually saved by a mystical intervention and is compelled to share his story as a cautionary tale to others.

The shooting of the albatross has been interpreted in various ways over the years. Some see it as a metaphor for the destruction of nature by mankind, while others view it as a religious allegory. Regardless of the interpretation, the shooting of the albatross serves as a pivotal moment in the poem, setting off a chain of events that explore themes of guilt, redemption, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

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