So, I'm currently reading a book of Emerson's essays and was wondering what some opinions are of him. I've read History and am in the middle of Self-Reliance. He much more difficult to read and he is extremely philosophical.
So, I'm currently reading a book of Emerson's essays and was wondering what some opinions are of him. I've read History and am in the middle of Self-Reliance. He much more difficult to read and he is extremely philosophical.
As far as I know, him and Thoreau are the only American Philosophers I am aware of. They can be classified as philosphers right?
Sadly I dont think I've ever read Emerson, though I have read Thoreau.
Harold Bloom argues that Emerson essentially establishes the American religion. Many would agree with him. He truly argues well for an American philosophy and an America aesthetic that is unique and separate from that of Europe. How true this is is debatable. I find him a good poet and a marvelous critic and essayist.
Beware of the man with just one book. -Ovid
The man who doesn't read good books has no advantage over the man who can't read them.- Mark Twain
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Just by serendipity, last week I happened to read the following book review on Emerson by the late John Updike:
http://www.newyorker.com/archive/200...0804crbo_books
Let us know what you think, both of the review and Emerson's writing itself.
Emerson, along with the other Transcendentalists (although Emerson disdained the term), is a very important figure in American literature. It is generally accepted that the Emersonian era is the point during which America appeared on the literary map. If you want to explore another American philosopher, especially in the realm of education, you can check out John Dewey, especially his theories on experience and education.
Cheers for Emerson!
J'ai seul la clef de cette parade sauvage.
- Rimbaud
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