Nature

Definition

Nature refers to the physical world and its phenomena, encompassing landscapes, plants, animals, and natural processes. It often symbolizes purity, truth, and the essence of life itself, reflecting a deep connection between humanity and the environment. In literature, nature can serve as a backdrop for human experiences or be personified to express emotions and themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anne Bradstreet's poetry often reflects her observations of nature, intertwining personal emotions with the natural landscape around her.
2. Puritan writers viewed nature with a sense of awe but also caution, seeing it as both a manifestation of God's power and a potential distraction from spiritual pursuits.
3. In early American novels, nature frequently serves as a character itself, influencing the plot and shaping the journeys of protagonists.
4. Nature is often depicted as a refuge or place of solace in early American literature, providing characters with a sense of peace or enlightenment away from societal pressures.
5. The tension between civilization and nature is a recurring theme in early American writing, illustrating the struggle between human development and the preservation of the natural world.

Review Questions

• How does Anne Bradstreet's poetry reflect her relationship with nature, and what themes does she convey through her use of natural imagery?
  • Anne Bradstreet's poetry often portrays her intimate connection with nature, using vivid imagery to express her emotions and experiences. For instance, she draws parallels between her feelings of love, loss, and spiritual contemplation with elements of the natural world. This interplay highlights themes of transience, beauty, and the divine presence in everyday life, showcasing how nature serves as both a source of inspiration and a reflection of her inner turmoil.
• Discuss the portrayal of nature in early American novels and its significance in shaping character development and thematic exploration.
  • In early American novels, nature is often depicted as a powerful force that shapes characters' journeys and personal growth. The landscape serves not only as a physical setting but also as a catalyst for internal conflict and transformation. For example, characters may seek refuge in nature to escape societal constraints or confront their innermost fears. This relationship underscores themes of identity, freedom, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a rapidly changing world.
• Evaluate how the themes surrounding nature in Puritan literature differ from those found in Romantic literature, considering their respective worldviews.
  • In Puritan literature, nature is viewed through a lens of caution and reverence, reflecting the belief that it is both a manifestation of God's creation and a potential distraction from spiritual pursuits. The emphasis is on humility before God's authority rather than on individual experience. In contrast, Romantic literature celebrates nature as a source of inspiration and emotional truth, highlighting the individual's connection to the natural world. This shift illustrates a broader cultural transition from strict religious views to an appreciation for personal experience and emotional depth found within nature.

Related terms

Transcendentalism:

A philosophical movement that emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and nature, advocating for a deep spiritual connection to the natural world.

Pastoral: A literary genre that idealizes rural life and nature, often contrasting it with urban life to highlight themes of simplicity and harmony.

Romanticism:

An artistic and literary movement that focuses on emotion and individualism, often celebrating nature as a source of inspiration and beauty.