Transcendentalism

Definition

Transcendentalism is a philosophical and artistic movement that emerged in the early 19th century, primarily in America, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the belief in self-reliance and individual intuition as the highest form of knowledge. This movement sought to transcend traditional doctrines and embrace a more personal and direct relationship with spirituality, often reflecting on the connection between the individual and the universe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transcendentalism was heavily influenced by German Romantic philosophy, particularly the works of Immanuel Kant and Johann Gottlieb Fichte.
2. Key figures include Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, both of whom emphasized the importance of personal experience and nature in their writings.
3. Transcendentalists believed that society often corrupted the purity of the individual, leading to their emphasis on self-reliance and intuition.
4. The movement advocated for social reform, including abolitionism and women's rights, reflecting its commitment to individual dignity and equality.
5. Transcendentalist aesthetics are characterized by a focus on simple forms and colors, as seen in the works of artists like Mark Rothko, who sought to evoke emotional responses through abstraction.

Review Questions

• How does transcendentalism reflect on the relationship between individuals and nature?
  • Transcendentalism emphasizes a deep connection between individuals and nature, viewing the natural world as a source of inspiration and spiritual insight. This philosophy encourages individuals to find truth through personal experience in nature rather than relying solely on societal norms or established doctrines. For transcendentalists, nature is not just a backdrop but an integral part of understanding oneself and one’s place in the universe.
• Discuss how Ralph Waldo Emerson's ideas contributed to the principles of transcendentalism.
  • Ralph Waldo Emerson's writings laid foundational principles for transcendentalism by promoting self-reliance, individuality, and the inherent goodness of people. His essay 'Nature' argued that experiencing the natural world leads to spiritual awakening and personal growth. Emerson believed that individuals must trust their intuition over societal expectations, which resonated deeply with transcendentalist thought and inspired many artists and thinkers to embrace these ideals.
• Evaluate the impact of transcendentalism on American art movements in the 20th century, particularly regarding abstraction as seen in artists like Mark Rothko.
  • Transcendentalism significantly influenced American art movements in the 20th century by encouraging artists to explore abstraction as a means of expressing profound emotional experiences. Mark Rothko's work exemplifies this influence; his large-scale color fields invite viewers to engage with their own feelings in response to color combinations. This approach mirrors transcendentalist beliefs by prioritizing individual perception and emotional depth over representational accuracy, allowing art to serve as a conduit for spiritual reflection.

Related terms

Romanticism: A cultural movement that prioritized emotion, nature, and individualism over rationalism and industrialization, influencing literature and art during the same period.

Emersonian Ideals: Philosophies developed by Ralph Waldo Emerson that focus on self-reliance, the importance of nature, and the spiritual connection between humanity and the universe.

Nature: A key theme in transcendentalism, symbolizing not only the physical world but also a source of inspiration and a pathway to understanding deeper truths about existence.