Thomas Paine: Patriot and Writer

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Transcendentalism was a philosophy with a strong effect on the literature of the 1830's and 1840's. Transcendentalism advocated views involving isolation from society and connection to nature. However, transcendentalist writers such as Emerson and Thoreau were not the first to utilize these ideas. Thomas Paine, a well known Revolutionary hero, is an origin of transcendentalist ideals. While his views were not exactly those of the modern transcendentalists, Thomas Paine generated very similar ideas in order to advance his revolutionary ideas. This new style of writing was an integral part of the reason for his writing's popularity and success, reserving him a place in American history. Thomas Paine utilized early elements of transcendentalism in order to express his belief and support of both human and societal rights.

Thomas Paine started life as a common man, but became a distinguished writer and devoted patriot. The son of a corset maker, Paine was more influenced by his father's religion than his work. His father's religious influence in combination with his study of science caused him to dislike Government based on hereditary privilege. Eventually, Paine immigrated to Philadelphia, gained more schooling, and became very acquainted with several advocates of political change (Foner 1). Paine's success had two origins. The first, and most well known, was his sympathy with the American plight. Paine disliked monarchy as did many other Americans. Secondly, his transcendentalist style of writing caused his writings to be quite unique making them all the more interesting to his readers. Paine died poor and alone after many of his views were considered too radical. However, history remembers him as one of the greatest contributors ...

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...ge factor in the shaping of ideals and beliefs of transcendentalists. Age of Reason showed that despite the passing of time, Paine continues to maintain transcendentalist ideals and beliefs while still utilizing these beliefs to defend the rights of both man and society as well as the freedom from oppression.

Thomas Paine was not the perfect example of transcendentalism. However, this is because he came nearly 50 years before the movement and was most likely a very large influence on its origin. He still used the finer elements to create well reasoned moral, ethical, and realistic arguments for liberty and revolution which benefited society and individuals. These views themselves are transcendentalist in nature. Thomas Paine's work went on to inspire men throughout the revolution, causing him to be cited as one of the main influences on liberty throughout time.

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