American transcendentalism emphasizes intuition over reason, a rejection of materialism, and the importance of nature as a source of truth and inspiration. Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay highlights man’s connection with nature and prompts reflection on questions regarding simplicity, childhood, and spirituality. The document encourages exploration of these themes through introspection and nature immersion.

1. American Transcendentalism

2. Have you ever thought about how everything is connected?

3. Wondered why everything has it’s place?

4. Have you ever tried to simplify?

5. Have you ever looked close enough…

6. … to be able to finally peel back the layers…

7. … and see

8. … the creator

9. … within the creation?

10. This philosophy is the spiritual center of a movement called… American Transcendentalism

11. American Transcendentalism’s Main Beliefs: Intuition over reason. Rejection of materialism. Embrace Simplicity. Nature is the prime source of truth and inspiration Nonconformity, individuality, and self reliance.

12. The seeds of these ideas can be found in Nature…

13. … ummmm, not that “Nature” actually…. I meant this one: … it’s an essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson that outlines the ideas about man’s true connection with Nature.

14. Write down the following questions: Why do we need to go into Nature? What does a child have that adults do not? Why do we need to be like a child in Nature? What is interesting about the pairing of reason and faith? What would be the advantage of returning to both? What is a transparent eyeball? Why would you want to be one? What proof does Emerson give for the spiritual connection between Nature and man? Now read pages 238 – 242 and answer them. 