Transcendentalism

Definition

Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, and the belief that individuals can transcend the physical world through intuition and personal experience. It promotes the idea that individuals are capable of discovering their own truths through self-reflection and a deep connection with nature, often rejecting traditional institutions and materialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transcendentalism was founded by thinkers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, who emphasized individual experience over established doctrine.
2. The movement was heavily influenced by Romantic ideas, valuing emotion and individual perception over rational thought and societal conventions.
3. Transcendentalists believed that society and its institutions often corrupted the purity of the individual, advocating for self-reliance and personal integrity.
4. Nature was seen as a central element in Transcendentalist thought, providing a means for individuals to connect with the divine and understand their own spirituality.
5. Literary works from this movement often utilized mythological imagery to convey deeper truths about the human experience and our connection to nature.

Review Questions

• How did Transcendentalism challenge traditional beliefs about society and institutions?
  • Transcendentalism challenged traditional beliefs by asserting that individuals should rely on their own intuition rather than conforming to societal norms or established institutions. Thinkers like Emerson argued that social institutions often corrupt individuals' natural goodness. By promoting self-reliance and personal experience, Transcendentalists encouraged people to trust their inner voice over external authority, leading to a more profound understanding of truth.
• In what ways did Romanticism influence the themes found in Transcendentalist literature?
  • Romanticism significantly influenced Transcendentalist literature by emphasizing emotion, nature, and individual experience. Both movements shared a belief in the power of the individual spirit and the importance of connecting with nature. Romantic poets often used vivid imagery to express deep feelings, which Transcendentalists adopted to illustrate their philosophies about intuition and personal connection to the world. This cross-pollination enriched the literary landscape of the time.
• Evaluate the role of mythological imagery in Transcendentalist writings and how it enhances their philosophical ideas.
  • Mythological imagery plays a crucial role in Transcendentalist writings as it serves to illustrate complex philosophical ideas in an accessible way. By incorporating myths, authors like Thoreau and Emerson connect their thoughts on individuality, nature, and spirituality with universal themes found throughout human history. This use of imagery not only deepens readers' understanding but also allows them to see connections between their personal experiences and broader human narratives, thus enhancing the transcendentalist message of self-discovery through nature.

Related terms

Romanticism: A literary and artistic movement that emphasizes emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature, often seen as a precursor to Transcendentalism.

Intuition: The ability to understand something instinctively, without the need for conscious reasoning, which is central to Transcendentalist beliefs.

Nature: A significant theme in Transcendentalism that represents both a source of inspiration and a pathway for individuals to connect with their true selves.