Philosophical Vision
In Nature, how does Emerson describe the effect of nature on the soul?
It reconnects the individual with a sense of perpetual youth and spirituality.
What type of sentence is the following: “Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string”?
Compound sentence (two independent clauses joined by a colon).
What does the word "sanctity" mean in the context of Emerson’s works?
It refers to the quality of being holy or sacred, often in connection with nature.
According to Self-Reliance, what does society demand from individuals?
Conformity.
In Nature, what metaphor does Emerson use to describe the human soul?
He compares it to a "transparent eyeball."
What is Emerson's "transparent eyeball" metaphor in Nature meant to convey?
It represents losing one's ego and becoming one with the universe.
Identify the sentence structure: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.”
Simple sentence (one independent clause)
What does Emerson mean by "redeemers" in Self-Reliance?
People who save or rescue others, particularly in a spiritual sense.
What does Emerson say is "the greatest delight" in Nature?
The suggestion of a spiritual connection between people and nature.
How does nature reflect a person’s inner emotions according to Emerson?
Nature wears the "colors of the spirit," meaning it mirrors the observer’s emotional state.
According to Self-Reliance, why is nonconformity important for individual greatness?
Emerson believes that true greatness requires resisting societal pressures and following one’s inner voice.
What type of sentence is this from Nature: “Nature always wears the colors of the spirit; to a man laboring under calamity, the heat of his own fire hath sadness in it.”
Compound-complex sentence (two independent clauses and one dependent clause
How does Emerson use the word "transcendent" in Self-Reliance?
He uses it to refer to a state or experience that goes beyond the physical world, connecting with the divine.
Why does Emerson claim that "imitation is suicide"?
He believes that by imitating others, individuals destroy their own uniqueness and potential.
What effect does a walk in the woods have on Emerson in Nature?
It gives him a sense of exhilaration and connection to the universe.
In Nature, when does “mean egotism” vanish?
It vanishes when a person is in the presence of nature and feels connected to something larger than themselves.
Identify the sentence type: “The power which resides in him is new in nature, and none but he knows what that is which he can do, nor does he know until he has tried.”
Compound-complex sentence (multiple independent clauses and a dependent clause)
What does Emerson redefine as "the hobgoblin of little minds"?
He redefines "a foolish consistency," which is usually seen as positive, to be a limitation on growth and creativity.
In Self-Reliance, why does Emerson value nonconformity?
He argues that nonconformity allows individuals to remain true to themselves and their unique genius.
In Nature, what does Emerson say happens to a person’s years in the woods?
A person casts off their years and becomes like a child, experiencing perpetual youth.
How does Emerson's idea of "transcendent destiny" in Self-Reliance shape his philosophy?
It reflects the belief that individuals have a higher purpose or calling that transcends everyday life and societal expectations.
What sentence type is the following: “He must take himself for better, for worse, as his portion”?
Complex sentence (one independent clause and one dependent clause)
What is meant by "mean egotism" in Nature?
It refers to a selfish, small-minded focus on one's self-importance that disappears in the presence of nature.
How does Emerson define “manhood” in Self-Reliance?
True manhood, according to Emerson, is achieved through self-reliance and resisting societal pressures.
According to Emerson, what is the role of nature in human life?
Nature serves as a spiritual teacher, connecting individuals to the larger universe and helping them understand their place within it.