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The Long-Living Phenomenon of Transcendentalism

"There is, then, apparently no way at hand to prove incontrovertibly that Melville had even read 'The Transcendentalist' before writing this story, but a comparative examination of the two suggests that he had and he had read it with care, using Emerson's idealist for his portrayal of the incommunicative Bartleby and Emerson's materialist (also depicted in that essay) for his portrayal of the Wall Street lawyer."

-Christopher W. Sten

"Thoreau also found in transcendentalism a philosophical imperative to test his potential, to expand his view of the world, and to become the divine prophet that all humans could become."

-Lydia Willsky

"Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth."

-Henry David Thoreau

Modern Day Transcendentalism

  • Several people use the activity of floating to isolate themselves from society and enjoy the wonders of nature.
  • The religious aspects of transcendentalism are still present through the increase of people having faith in human reason and the potential of the human race.

Transcendentalism Beyond the 19th Century

John Burrows was a transcendentalist who lived in the early twentieth century. He was inspired by Thoreau and Emerson. His writings promoted the ideals of transcendentalism.

Transcendentalism as a Religious Revolution

  • Transcendentalists opposed traditional religious practices.
  • Transcendentalism emphasizes individuality and human reason.
  • Transcendentalism encouraged people to go out and find their own truths. Most did this through abandoning society and adventuring through nature.

Transcendentalism as a Literary Movement

My Thesis

  • The theme of transcendentalism can be seen in the writings of Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
  • Transcendentalism has influenced other well-known authors, such as Herman Melville.

The rise of transcendentalism marked the beginning of the creation of modern literature and inspired a whole new perspective of religion, and its effects are present and relevant in today’s society.

What is Transcendentalism?

Transcendentalism is a philosophy which says thought and spiritual feelings are more real than ordinary human experience and material things.

What Do Critics Say About the Transcendentalist Movement?

  • Some critics emphasize the literary aspects of transcendentalism
  • Other critics say that transcendentalism was purely a religious movement.
  • Some say it was both.
  • Some say it was only influential during the 19th century.
  • Some say the movement is still influential today.
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