American Renaissance

Definition

The American Renaissance refers to a period in the mid-19th century, roughly between the 1830s and the Civil War, characterized by a flourishing of American literature, philosophy, and culture. This era was marked by a renewed sense of national identity and creativity, closely linked to movements like Transcendentalism, which emphasized individualism and a deep connection to nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Renaissance is often associated with a group of authors including Nathaniel Hawthorne, Edgar Allan Poe, Walt Whitman, and Emily Dickinson, who each contributed significantly to American literature during this time.
2. The period marked a shift towards themes of individuality, freedom, and the exploration of the human spirit, contrasting with earlier European literary influences.
3. Transcendentalist ideas heavily influenced writers of the American Renaissance, promoting a belief in the spiritual connection between humans and nature.
4. The movement paralleled significant social changes in America, including discussions around abolitionism and women's rights, as writers sought to address moral and ethical issues through their work.
5. The legacy of the American Renaissance continues to shape American literature today, as its core themes of individualism and self-expression remain prevalent.

Review Questions

• How did Transcendentalism influence the literary themes of the American Renaissance?
  • Transcendentalism played a crucial role in shaping the literary themes of the American Renaissance by promoting ideas of individuality, self-reliance, and the spiritual connection between humans and nature. Authors during this period adopted these themes to explore human experience and express unique perspectives on society. This focus on personal intuition and a deep respect for nature led to profound changes in how literature was approached in America.
• Discuss how the works of key figures like Emerson and Thoreau reflect the ideals of the American Renaissance.
  • Ralph Waldo Emerson's essays celebrate individual thought and the importance of nature, emphasizing self-reliance as a vital aspect of personal development. Similarly, Henry David Thoreau's 'Walden' embodies these ideals by showcasing his experiment in simple living while reflecting on society's materialism. Both authors highlight themes central to the American Renaissance: a deep connection to nature and a commitment to individualism that challenges societal norms.
• Evaluate the impact of the American Renaissance on contemporary American literature and culture.
  • The American Renaissance has had a lasting impact on contemporary American literature and culture by laying the groundwork for themes such as individualism, social justice, and environmental awareness. Writers today continue to draw inspiration from the ideas presented by key figures of this era, often challenging societal norms while advocating for personal freedom. The legacy of this movement can be seen in modern literary works that explore identity, self-expression, and the relationship between humanity and nature.

Related terms

Transcendentalism:

A philosophical movement that emerged in the 1830s, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the importance of self-reliance and individual intuition.

Ralph Waldo Emerson:

An influential essayist, lecturer, and philosopher who was a central figure in the Transcendentalist movement and is known for works such as 'Nature' and 'Self-Reliance'.

Henry David Thoreau:

An American essayist, poet, and philosopher best known for his book 'Walden', which reflects his transcendentalist beliefs about simple living in natural surroundings.