CliffsNotes on Thoreau, Emerson, and Transcendentalism explores in depth, but also in easy-to-understand terms, transcendentalism -- the religious, political, and literary movement that captured the minds of such literary figures as Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson in the first half of the 19th century. This guide helps you to understand the various tenets of transcendentalism, as well as how Thoreau and Emerson became the two most well-known figures associated with the movement and how the transcendentalist philosophy is reflected in their work.

In addition to introducing you to the basics of understanding transcendentalism, this guide also gives you the following:

• Examinations of the lives of Thoreau and Emerson
• Detailed summaries of and commentaries on many of their transcendentalist writings, such as Emerson's Nature and Thoreau's Walden
• Critical essays on Emerson and Thoreau's reputation and influence
• A review section that tests your knowledge
• A Resource Center full of books, articles, and Internet sites

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