Examples Of Transcendentalism

Transcendentalism is one of the most influential movements in ideological and literary fields in American history. It emphasizes the spirit of the universe, which means it admits the existence of the "oversoul." This shows a new view of nature for people; the formation of this idea especially caused people to focus on their "personal"-individual life. Transcendentalism has religious origins and was influenced by romanticism, it tells people to be self reliant, to have self esteem, and to strive to rely on their own strength to ascend and improve their spiritual realm. Also, it liberates humanity to a great extent and improves the status of people, making people's freedom possible and it has a strong critical spirit and to build a society with

Emerson believes that people only can get freedom and change the world through themselves. He stresses upon individualism and claims that people must adhere to themselves, believe in themselves, and behave according to their own intuition. In a word, transcendentalism has made outstanding contributions to the development of the American national spirit and the independence of American literature and culture. In “Self-Reliance,” we can find its value from three aspects. The first is that it praises the intuition highly and resists authority. Secondly, it supports individualism and it addresses that the function of the individual is very important. Third, it emphasizes the spirit and advises people to face reality, not disembodied

In fact, it just through the intuition to get knowledge and truth. He claimed that people can get inspiration from the divinities without any intermediaries, for instance teachers and books. This view contributes to the society at that time. It tells Americans to rely on their own intelligence and wisdom to get rid of the shackles of ideology of Britain and to create their own national culture. Emerson promoted “reliance” and “independence,” and he told people that America needed independent literature, rather than imitating English literature.
Secondly, transcendentalism addresses individualism and it encourages people to show their true personality. Transcendentalism is an ideological liberation movement accompanied by the development of capitalism. In “Self-Reliance,” Emerson praises people, the wisdom and creativity of people, and he also admits the supremacy of human beings. He hopes to use ordinary people's wisdom and strength to dispel such doctrines, for example “fatalism.” “He dares not say 'I think,' 'I am,' but quotes some saint or sage… He cannot be happy and strong until he too lives with nature in the present, above time.