Transcendentalism

 This blog is a part of thinking activity.

- Assigned by Vaidehi ma'am.

Transcendentalism is a 19th-century school of American theological and philosophical thought that combined respect for nature and self-sufficiency with elements of Unitarianism and German Romanticism. Writer Ralph Waldo Emerson was the primary practitioner of the movement, which existed loosely in Massachusetts in the early 1800s before becoming an organized group in the 1830s.

∆ What is Transcendentalism ?

Its all about spirituality. In other words transcendentalist believe spirituality isn't something you can explain; it's something you feel. Humans are inherently good. Nature is beautiful, should be deeply appreciated, and shouldn't be altered by humans.

1) Transcendentalists talk about the Individual’s relation with Nature. What is Nature for you? Share your views.

Ans.

Nature, to me, is more than just a collection of trees, animals, and rocks. It's the grand stage where the drama of life unfolds, where galaxies swirl and stars ignite, where mountains rise and rivers flow.

1) Nature is a teacher and a guide :-

Nature can teach us valuable lessons about life, such as the importance of adaptation, resilience, and cooperation. By studying nature, we can learn how to live in harmony with our environment. We can learn how to use resources efficiently and reduce our impact on the planet.

2) Nature is a source of resilience :-

Nature has an amazing ability to heal itself, and it can teach us how to be more resilient in the face of adversity.

3) A dynamic and interconnected system :-

Nature is not static; it's constantly evolving and changing. Every element, from the smallest organism to the largest ecosystem, is interconnected and interdependent. A change in one part can ripple through the entire system, creating a cascade of effects.

2.) Transcendentalism is an American Philosophy that influenced American Literature at length. Can you find any Indian/Regional literature or Philosophy that came up with such similar thoughts?

Ans.  

I find out many Indian/Regional literature or Philosophy that came up with such similar thoughts :-

∆ Philosophies :-

Advaita Vedanta : This Hindu philosophy emphasizes the oneness of Brahman (ultimate reality) and the individual soul (Atman), resonating with Transcendentalism's belief in the divine spark within each person. Advaita texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita explore themes of unity, self-realization, and transcending the limitations of the ego, similar to Transcendentalist ideals of intuition and connection to the oversoul.

Upanishads : These ancient texts, part of the Vedas, explore themes of self-discovery, the oneness of Brahman and Atman (individual soul), and the value of intuition and inner experience. These resonate with Transcendentalism's focus on intuition and transcending limitations through inward exploration.

∆ Literature :-

Bhagavad Gita : This epic poem within the Mahabharata explores themes of self-realization, duty, and the divine within, resonating with Transcendentalist ideas of individual responsibility, intuition, and connection to a higher power.

Rumi's poetry : The mystical poetry of the 13th-century Persian Sufi poet Rumi, translated and read by Transcendentalists like Emerson, offered a strong influence on their ideas about love, individual enlightenment, and the unity of all beings.

Regional Literature : Many regional Indian literary traditions, like Sant Kabir's poetry in North India, explore themes of spiritual unity, defiance of societal norms, and connection with nature, echoing Transcendentalist ideas.

Sufi Poetry : Mystical poetry from South Asia and beyond, like the works of Rumi, explores themes of divine love, unity of being, and transcending limitations. These themes find echoes in Transcendentalist writings on nature and the human spirit's connection to the universe.

Bengali Literature : The works of Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate, explore themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the connection between nature and the human soul. His writings share Transcendentalist ideas on intuition, individual expression, and the importance of living authentically.

∆ I explained in detail Indian Philosophy Advaita Vedanta :-

Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy, aligns with Transcendentalism in several key aspects:

Non-duality (Advaita) : Advaita Vedanta emphasizes the concept of "Advaita," meaning non-duality. It posits that the ultimate reality, Brahman, is devoid of any multiplicity or distinctions. Similarly, Transcendentalism stresses the unity of the individual soul with the universal soul, showcasing a parallel belief in the interconnectedness of all existence.

Universal Consciousness : Both philosophies share a belief in a universal consciousness that underlies and connects all aspects of reality. In Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is the ultimate, formless, and all-encompassing reality. Transcendentalists, such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, similarly envisioned a universal Over-Soul or divine essence that links humanity, nature, and the cosmos.

Intuition and Self-Realization: Transcendentalists like Emerson and Henry David Thoreau advocated for self-reliance, intuitive knowledge, and the importance of individual experience. Advaita Vedanta encourages self-realization through deep introspection, meditation, and the recognition of one's true nature as being identical with Brahman.

Nature as a Reflection of the Divine : Transcendentalists saw nature as a manifestation of the divine, urging individuals to seek spiritual insights through communion with the natural world. Advaita Vedanta similarly views the world as a manifestation of Brahman, and perceiving the divine in nature is considered a step toward realizing the ultimate truth.

3.)Write in short about your understanding of the following essays according to the topics given: "Solitude" from Waldon by Henry David Thoreau 

Ans.

Solitude is an essay written by Henry David Thoreau. His overall message through this essay is that it is more of a state of mind than something real. Thoreau being in Solitude is the best way to discover your mind and spirituality.

Thoreau was a prominent figure in the transcendentalist movement which celebrated the spiritual and philosophical significance of nature. Nature's and Solitude's great impact on Thoreau.

"I never found a companion that so companionable as Solitude."

                                - Walden 

Thoreau's celebration of independence and self - reliance took center stage, echoing his transcendentalist beliefs. He emphasizes the profound connection between spending time alone in nature and deepening one's awareness of the spiritual dimensions of life.

"Solitude" Walden from by Henry David Thoreau.pptx from KhushiRathod39

∆ Further reading about the Transcendentalism :- Click here

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