Henry David Thoreau The Philosophy Of Transcendentalism

The philosophy of Transcendentalism, according to the article â€Å"Transcendentalism, An American Philosophy† is believed to have been created and led by Ralph Waldo Emerson, which is why he is considered by many literary scholars and historians to be the father of Transcendentalism. Throughout the years, this philosophy attracted other artists and thinkers such as the American Romantic novelist Henry David Thoreau. These prominent and poetic individuals created an insight for this movement, believing in the true and significant values of individualism, minimalism, and spirituality in their lives. These specific aspects can be found in Thoreau’s most famous work, and Transcendentalist staple, Walden. This novel was a reminiscence of his life†¦show more content†¦It is the tranquility of nature that gives way to solitude playing a role in Transcendentalism and how figures of the movement deemed it important for individuals to be aware of who they are and what t heir place is in the world. The idea of serene solitude within the intensity of society was crucial for many Transcendentalists as it helped to find themselves which makes the idea especially valuable. In today’s world, it is safe to say that people are always busy, moving from task to task, going to work and back home, only to wake up the next day and do it all again. The idea of total solitude within a frenetic, yet monotonous lifestyle fully exists, but for many, solitude cannot be a luxury for them to acquire. Along with still existing in modern society, solitude is a value and a virtue that is taken for granted by many. Seclusion from the ills and pains of modern society may or may not be an advantage for the individual, but it is up to them to make that discovery. In Walden, Thoreau mentions that he found it â€Å"wholesome to be alone† and â€Å"to be around company soon became wearisome and dissipating†. It is clear that, for him, he did not see the joy of constantly being in the company of other people. He did not see his solitude as being unsociable or reclusive; however, he did see it as inspiration for his writings. Delving into his perspective, it is as if he believes that thisShow MoreRelatedEarly American Transcendentalism1204 Words   |  5 PagesEarly American transcendentalism has one of the greatest influences towards American society because it is not only a philosophy, but also a religion and physical progression. During the early nineteenth century, Ralph Emerson, Henry Thoreau, and other radical individuals challenged the present day theories of values, ethics, and what it means to live life to the fullest (Timko). If early American transcendentalists were living among civilians today, would present day civilians think the earlierRead MoreEssay on Transcendentalism1619 Words   |  7 Pages Transcendentalism nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Many people have theories and philosophies about life in general. There have been hundreds of thousands of books published by many different people on the ideas of people in the past and the present. Transcendentalism falls in amongst all of these ideas. There have been articles, essays, poems, and even books written about this subject. Transcendentalism has effected many people since the philosophy was first introduced. The idea was complex andRead MoreHenry David Thoreau : A Transcendentalist1438 Words   |  6 PagesHenry David Thoreau: A Transcendentalist Religion and politics are perhaps the most important topics of discussion, and paradoxically, the ones least discussed. Our differences cause us to shy away from such depth in our conversations with others and it is a remarkable human being who can share her opinion honestly on the subjects, and even more so, transcend the current popular opinions of the time. Henry David Thoreau was a man such as this. He spoke out against an unjust society and challengedRead MoreTranscendentalism, An American Philosophy1640 Words   |  7 PagesAmerican philosophers during the early to mid-1800s embraced a new liberal movement known as transcendentalism that posed a silent threat to the current social and political institutions of the time period. 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Emphasis was placed mainly on oneness with nature and God while making the possibility of so cial change a reality. Ralph Waldo Emerson was the leading American