Nature
Emerson believes that being in nature is good for what kind of situations in life? Use text evidence.
In Self-Reliance, Emerson suggest we should trust this one thing.
ourselves/thyself
How do transcendentalists feel about materialism?
They are not materialistic and reject the accumulation of physical possessions.
Individualism
Answers may vary. Possible answers include: a belief in the power of the individual; a habit or principle of being self-reliant/independent; a social theory favoring freedom of the individual
Who was Emerson's protege? Hint: We haven't read any of his work yet.
Interpret the meaning of Emerson's quote, "Nature always wears the colors of the spirit."
Answers may very, but refer back to the idea that humans interpret nature based on their current circumstances, emotions, experiences, etc.
According to Self-Reliance, when does a man have "no peace"?
When he has not put his heart into his work and done his best.
How would a transcendentalist approach authority figures?
Answers may vary, but transcendentalists hesitate to put their full trust in an authority figure. They are more likely to trust themselves and their intuition.
To rise above or overcome
Transcend
The following quote is an example of ETHOS, PATHOS, or LOGOS? (Explain why)
For nature is not always tricked in holiday attire, but the same scene which yesterday breathed perfume and glittered as for the frolic of the nymphs is overspread with melancholy today.
Logos: It is using factually based evidence to make a claim. Nature does look different in different seasons, times of day, weather conditions, etc.
Within these plantations of God, a decorum and sanctity reign, a perennial festival is dressed, and the guest sees not how he should tire of them in a thousand years.
What does Emerson referring to when he talks about the "plantations of God"?
The woods
According to the text, what does society want individuals to do in order to gain resources?
give up their rights and individualism
Who or what is at the center of the transcendentalist universe?
An instinctive feeling; something known without conscious reasoning or thought.
Intuition
What was the Transcendental Club/Brotherhood of the Like-Minded?
Answers may vary. This was a club consisting of artists, thinkers, politicians and socialists focused on promoting individualism and self-reliance.
What is the "greatest delight" that nature brings to us, according to Emerson?
"the suggestion of an occult relation between man and vegetable." Man and nature are connected.
What does Self-Reliance teach us about our instincts?
We should trust our instincts, no matter what others do or say.
Explain what transcendentalists believe about conformity.
Transcendentalists believe that society wants to control you, but that you should not conform to society's expectations.
Nonconformist
one who refuses to conform or fit into society's rules or standards
The following quote is an example of ETHOS, PATHOS, or LOGOS? (Explain why)
"In the woods is perpetual youth."
Pathos - He is appealing to the feeling of youth that we all miss as we age
What is the symbolism of the "transparent eyeball"?
The author is showing how he loses himself in nature. It's like he is invisible, but also sees all.
Answers should include a reference to how Emerson believes we are a "plot of ground" or a garden we have to care for, to nourish and grow our unique talents and abilities.
In your own words, describe a transcendentalist. Describe two beliefs they would hold.
Answers may vary, but could include: Simplicity, not materialistic, nonconformist, abolitionist, naturalist, not very religious, believe in the power of the individual/intuition
Abolitionist
one who wishes to abolish a practice; most commonly used to describe people who are anti-slavery
The following quote is an example of ETHOS, PATHOS, or LOGOS? (Explain why)
"Pythagoras was misunderstood, and Socrates, and Jesus..."
He is using Ethos because he is appealing to credibility.