Emerson/thoreau Essay, Research Paper

The purpose of this research paper is to discuss and assess both Ralph

Waldo Emerson’s and Henry David Thoreau’s views regarding solitude and

isolation as well as its relationship to modern times, as depicted within their

literary contributions. Both Emerson and Thoreau contributed much in the

way of literary contributions which underscore the importance and value of

solitude and isolation which, I believe, are demonstrable in terms of

contemporary times. To this extent, I shall attempt to point this out

throughout this research paper, and as well shall identify specific examples.

To begin with, I should like to offer an overview of each as well as a body

and conclusion as to the how and why solitude and isolation manifest

themselves as themes throughout their literary contributions and their

reflection towards modern times. As is often the case, themes and authors

are best understood in terms of their personal backgrounds and experiences.

For example, Emerson was the son of a Boston Unitarian minister who

attended Harvard College (1817-21) and studied as well as preached the

Christian word. Before becoming a successful writer, Emerson had a career

as a lecturer and was one of the early innovators of the transcendental

movement, which basically questioned all of that which surrounded our

society (i.e., literature, religion, philosophy, etc.). Emerson and Thoreau

were neighbors and his writings on self-reliance speaks of a man who may

trust himself against a society that, “…everywhere is in a conspiracy against

the manhood of any one of its members. Nothing can bring you peace but

yourself. The nature of the soul is the compensation for the inequalities of

condition.” Emerson further recommends truth and tenderness as the basis of

genuine friendship in his treatise on friendship