Transcendentalism

Definition

Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century in America, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the importance of individual intuition and spirituality. This movement advocated for a deep connection to nature, personal reflection, and a belief in the divine presence within each individual, contrasting with traditional religious views and societal norms. Its ideals greatly influenced later literary criticism by promoting the exploration of human experience and the sublime.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transcendentalism originated in New England, with key figures such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau leading the movement.
2. The movement was heavily influenced by Romanticism and sought to challenge established societal norms through its focus on nature and spirituality.
3. Transcendentalists believed in the power of intuition over empirical reasoning, advocating for personal experiences as a path to understanding truth.
4. Nature played a central role in Transcendentalist thought, seen as a source of inspiration and a reflection of the divine presence within individuals.
5. The ideas presented by Transcendentalists had lasting impacts on later literary criticism, encouraging a focus on emotional depth and personal connection in literary analysis.

Review Questions

• How did the ideals of Transcendentalism influence the perception of nature in literature?
  • Transcendentalism significantly shifted the perception of nature in literature by portraying it as a source of inspiration, spiritual insight, and moral clarity. Authors like Emerson and Thoreau emphasized that nature was not just a backdrop but a living entity that reflected divine truth and inner wisdom. This perspective encouraged writers to explore their emotional connections to the natural world, leading to richer descriptions and deeper themes in their works.
• Discuss how Transcendentalism challenged traditional religious beliefs during its time.
  • Transcendentalism challenged traditional religious beliefs by advocating for a direct personal relationship with the divine rather than reliance on established religious institutions. It emphasized individual intuition as a means to understanding spiritual truths, which stood in contrast to dogmatic practices. This movement encouraged followers to seek spiritual experiences in nature and within themselves instead of through organized religion, prompting a reevaluation of faith and authority.
• Evaluate the impact of Transcendentalism on modern literary criticism and its focus on emotional engagement.
  • Transcendentalism has had a profound impact on modern literary criticism by foregrounding emotional engagement and personal interpretation. Critics influenced by Transcendentalist thought prioritize how literature connects with readers on an intuitive level, often focusing on themes of nature, individuality, and the sublime. This approach encourages deeper analysis of characters' inner lives and motivations, making it vital for understanding contemporary literature's exploration of human experience.

Related terms

Romanticism: A cultural movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, which influenced Transcendentalist thought and literature.

Individualism: The principle of valuing personal independence and self-reliance, central to Transcendentalist philosophy.

Sublime: A concept that refers to experiences that inspire awe or wonder, often linked to nature, which is significant in both Transcendentalism and literary criticism.