Transcendentalism

Definition

Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century in the United States, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, along with the belief that individuals can transcend the physical world through intuition and personal experience. This movement sought to challenge societal norms and promote self-reliance, as well as a deep connection to nature, reflecting a broader cultural shift during a time of social reform and heightened individualism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transcendentalism was partly a reaction against the strict religious and social norms of the time, promoting personal spirituality over organized religion.
2. The movement encouraged individuals to rely on their intuition and inner feelings as a guide for understanding truth and morality.
3. Nature played a central role in Transcendentalist philosophy, seen as a source of inspiration and spiritual connection.
4. Transcendentalism influenced various social reform movements of the era, including abolitionism and women's rights, by promoting ideals of equality and justice.
5. The writings of Transcendentalists contributed significantly to American literature, laying the groundwork for future literary movements focused on individual expression and authenticity.

Review Questions

• How did Transcendentalism challenge the social norms of the early 19th century in America?
  • Transcendentalism challenged the social norms of the early 19th century by promoting individual intuition over societal conventions and organized religion. It encouraged people to question established beliefs and embrace personal spirituality. This movement inspired many to pursue self-reliance and explore deeper connections with nature, ultimately leading to social reforms that sought to address issues like slavery and women's rights.
• Analyze how Transcendentalism intersected with other movements of its time, such as Romanticism and abolitionism.
  • Transcendentalism intersected with Romanticism through shared values like emotional depth and appreciation for nature. Both movements rejected rationalism and celebrated individual creativity. Additionally, many Transcendentalists were active in the abolitionist movement, using their belief in the inherent goodness of humanity to advocate for social justice and equality. The interconnectedness of these ideas created a cultural environment that fostered activism for various reforms.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Transcendentalism on American culture and literature beyond its peak in the 19th century.
  • Transcendentalism left a significant legacy on American culture and literature, influencing future generations of writers, thinkers, and activists. Its emphasis on individuality, self-reliance, and a profound connection to nature has continued to resonate in contemporary environmental movements and literary works. The philosophical principles laid out by Transcendentalists also paved the way for modern existential thought, promoting ideas about personal meaning-making that remain relevant today.

Related terms

Ralph Waldo Emerson: A leading figure in the Transcendentalist movement, Emerson emphasized the importance of individual intuition and the connection between humanity and nature in his writings.

Henry David Thoreau: An influential Transcendentalist writer known for his book 'Walden,' which reflects on simple living in natural surroundings and advocates for civil disobedience.

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, closely related to Transcendentalist thought.