Transcendentalism

Definition

Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the importance of individual intuition and self-reliance. This movement promoted a deep connection to nature, seeing it as a source of inspiration and truth, contrasting with industrial society's focus on materialism and conformity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transcendentalism emerged in the 1830s and 1840s in New England, primarily influenced by thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau.
2. The movement was a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the materialism of industrial society, promoting a return to nature as essential for personal growth.
3. Transcendentalists believed that individuals could find truth through intuition rather than through established doctrines or institutions.
4. Key works associated with transcendentalism include Emerson's 'Nature' and Thoreau's 'Walden,' both of which explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
5. The transcendentalist movement contributed to various social reform movements, including abolitionism and women's rights, advocating for equality and individual empowerment.

Review Questions

• How did transcendentalism challenge the societal norms of its time regarding nature and individualism?
  • Transcendentalism challenged societal norms by promoting the idea that nature is not just a backdrop but a vital source of inspiration and wisdom. It encouraged individuals to reject materialism and conformity, advocating for self-reliance and personal intuition. This focus on individuality was revolutionary in a time when industrialization pushed people towards collective identity and urban living.
• Discuss how Emerson's essay 'Nature' encapsulates the core ideas of transcendentalism.
  • In his essay 'Nature,' Emerson encapsulates core transcendentalist ideas by emphasizing the spiritual connection between humanity and the natural world. He argues that nature reflects the divine and serves as a guide for understanding oneself. Emerson believes that experiencing nature leads to personal enlightenment and self-discovery, reinforcing the notion that individuals should trust their inner feelings over societal expectations.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of transcendentalism on American literature and social movements in the 19th century.
  • Transcendentalism had a profound impact on American literature by fostering a sense of individuality and appreciation for nature in works by authors like Thoreau and Whitman. It also laid the groundwork for various social movements, such as abolitionism and women's rights, by promoting ideals of equality and self-empowerment. The emphasis on individual conscience over institutional authority inspired generations to advocate for social change, making transcendentalist principles relevant beyond their time.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, often seen as a precursor to transcendentalism.

Self-Reliance: An essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson that advocates for individuals to trust their intuition and be independent in their thoughts and actions, a core principle of transcendentalist thought.

Nature: A central theme in transcendentalism, representing both a literal landscape and a metaphorical space for personal reflection and spiritual connection.