Answer:
Ralph Waldo Emerson is the father of American Literature. In a series of strikingly original essays written in the mid-nineteenth century, he fundamentally changed the way America saw its cultural and artistic possibilities, enabling its separation from transatlantic literary traditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ralph Waldo Emerson is considered "The Father of American Literature" for several reasons:
1. Transcendentalism: Emerson was a key figure in the transcendentalist movement, which emphasized the importance of individualism, intuition, and the spiritual connection between humans and nature. His essays, such as "Nature" and "Self-Reliance," introduced these ideas to a wide audience and influenced many other American writers.
2. Intellectual Leadership: Emerson's ideas and writings had a profound impact on the intellectual and literary landscape of his time. He was a central figure in the intellectual circles of the 19th century, attracting followers and fellow thinkers who were inspired by his philosophy. His lectures and essays, delivered with eloquence and clarity, helped shape American intellectual thought.
3. Literary Influence: Emerson's works inspired many subsequent American writers, including Henry David Thoreau, Walt Whitman, and Emily Dickinson. His emphasis on individualism and self-reliance resonated with these writers and influenced the development of American literature.
4. Cultural Commentary: Emerson's writings tackled important cultural and social issues of his time, such as slavery and the role of women in society. His essays provided a platform for critical reflection and encouraged readers to question established norms and conventions. His social and political commentary made him a significant voice in shaping American cultural identity.
In summary, Ralph Waldo Emerson is considered "The Father of American Literature" due to his role in promoting transcendentalist ideas, his intellectual leadership, his influence on subsequent American writers, and his cultural commentary. His contributions to American literature and thought continue to be celebrated and studied to this day.
Ralph Waldo Emerson is considered "The Father of American Literature" for several reasons. One of the main reasons is his rejection of cultural traditions, which helped bring about what one contemporary called America's "intellectual declaration of independence." This means that Emerson challenged the traditional ideas and beliefs that were prevalent in American society at the time, and encouraged Americans to think independently and question authority.
Emerson's ideas and writings also established generational conflict and transformation as important themes in American literature. He believed that individuals should trust their own instincts and intuition, rather than blindly following the norms and conventions of society. This emphasis on self-reliance and individualism greatly influenced future American writers, who often explored similar themes in their works.
Overall, Emerson's intellectual independence and his promotion of individualism had a profound impact on American literature. His ideas shaped the course of American literary tradition and continue to be influential to this day.