Emerson Questions

What we will do today: Read the background information of Emerson, read the essay "Nature", discuss the theme and ways he develops it.  Write on our blogs about the theme and its development. 

In “Nature” Emerson speaks of the special relationship between man and nature. This writing corresponds with the transcendentalist ideas of nature being alive and having a higher consciousness. He speaks of how man is able to let go and lose himself and connect with nature and the world. Emerson writes that “a man casts off his years” while in the woods. While connected with nature, man can

HW: Questions 1-3 and 6 on page 375.

1. his nature

2. they can relieve him of his years and allow him to become a child and can come to terms with his faith in the woods

3. the relationship between man and the vegetable

6. his themes follow the transcendentalist ideas that nature is important and man can find himself in nature

What we will do today: Read the background information of Emerson, read the essay "Self-Reliance", discuss the theme and ways he develops it.  Write on our blogs about the theme and its development. 

In “Self-Reliance” Emerson encourages others to think for themselves. He says people should take pride in their individuality, and weaves this throughout his work. He writes “for nonconformity the world whips you with its displeasure.” He says that is what man should aim for, regardless of popular opinion. He says that although things might not be great, originality is key.