Answer:
Carlyle's State of German Literature spurred the move by Emerson and others to Transcendentalism. William Wordsworth, the English poet, whose work Emerson read extensively and whom Emerson met in England. Emerson, also a poet, is said to have known much of Wordsworth's poetry by heart.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ralph Waldo Emerson, an American essayist, poet, and philosopher, was indeed influenced by several European writers. Here are some notable European writers who influenced Emerson:
1. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: Emerson greatly admired Goethe, a German writer and philosopher. He found inspiration in Goethe's emphasis on individualism and self-reliance, which aligned with Emerson's own beliefs. Goethe's ideas on the importance of nature and the connection between nature and the human spirit also influenced Emerson's thinking.
2. Samuel Taylor Coleridge: Coleridge, an English poet and philosopher, influenced Emerson through his ideas on imagination and the power of the mind. Emerson was particularly drawn to Coleridge's concept of the "primary imagination," which refers to the creative force that shapes perception and reality.
3. Thomas Carlyle: A Scottish writer and philosopher, Carlyle had a significant impact on Emerson's thinking. Emerson was influenced by Carlyle's ideas on heroism, the importance of work and self-reliance, and the belief in the power of the individual to effect positive change in society.
4. Michel de Montaigne: Emerson was also influenced by the French writer Montaigne, known for his essays. Montaigne's focus on self-exploration and self-reflection resonated with Emerson, who also emphasized the importance of introspection and self-discovery in his own writings.
These are just a few examples of the European writers who influenced Ralph Waldo Emerson. It's important to note that Emerson was also influenced by other writers and thinkers, both American and non-European, as he developed his own unique philosophy known as Transcendentalism.