Ralph Waldo Emerson Research Paper Outline

Introduction Opening: Ralph Waldo Emerson was an early American author whose work has contributed immeasurably to literature for nearly 200 years. His work paved the way for the transcendentalist movement, which shifted society’s focus from a God-centered universe to a fully human-centered universe. Renowned for his philosophy as the father of transcendentalism, Emerson’s legacy stands as an emblem of innovation and wisdom. His book-length essay, Nature, lays a foundation for the philosophy for which Emerson will be forever known and transports readers into the mind of an author, philosopher, and quintessentially American thinker. Thesis: In the first chapter of his book, “Nature,” Emerson encourages readers to lose themselves in nature in

Evidence: For Emerson, solitude in nature provides a path to the divine. He believes that in solitude, individuals can perceive the spiritual truths and beauty of the natural world, leading to unity with the universe. Additionally, retreating to nature enables people to rejuvenate their minds and return to society refreshed with purpose and creativity. Evidence: When Emerson retreats into the natural world, he becomes a “transparent eyeball” in the forest. Rather than a separate being, he is a part of the natural world, interconnected with all of the universe. Evidence: This portrayal of the impact of solitude serves to convey his Transcendentalist philosophy of unity with nature and heightened perception. It leaves a lasting impression on his audience, inspiring them to explore introspection through the natural world and contemplate the depths of existence. Topic Sentence: Solitude, Emerson argues, is the only way to experience the transformational power of the sublime and become unified with all of

The rays that come from those heavenly worlds, will separate between him and what he touches.” This segment is a prime example of the style Emerson utilizes to convey his unconventional philosophy to readers, utilizing rich detail and metaphors. He continues to write, “Every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile.” These metaphorical stars carry a message, a reminder of the vastness of the world which encourages readers to contemplate existence beyond the teachings of society. They enable readers to embrace the mundanity of everyday life and find true beauty, just as he does when he looks closer at the stars he finds in the sky each night. He continues to write that “one might think the atmosphere was made transparent with this design, to give man, in the heavenly bodies, the perpetual presence of the sublime.” Through the “heavenly bodies,” Emerson wants his audience to encounter the timeless and eternal sublime. Looking at the stars allows for the confrontation of human insignificance with the grandeur of the universe, which evokes feelings of both awe and fear– the essence of the