Self-reliance

Definition

Self-reliance refers to the reliance on one's own abilities, judgment, and resources rather than seeking help or approval from others. This concept encourages individuals to trust themselves and their instincts, fostering independence and personal growth. It emphasizes the importance of individuality and authenticity in thought and action, which are central themes in various literary movements, particularly in the context of significant American literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-reliance is a key theme in Transcendentalist literature, where authors like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau emphasized individual intuition as a path to truth.
2. Emerson’s essay 'Self-Reliance' argues that nonconformity is essential for personal development and societal progress.
3. The concept promotes breaking away from societal norms and expectations to discover one’s own path and values.
4. In the context of the Great American Novel, self-reliance can be seen in characters who embody independence and challenge societal constraints.
5. Self-reliance is often linked to the idea of the 'American Dream,' where individual effort and determination lead to success and fulfillment.

Review Questions

• How does self-reliance manifest in the works of Transcendentalist authors?
  • In Transcendentalist literature, self-reliance is often portrayed through characters who trust their own instincts and beliefs over societal expectations. Authors like Emerson highlight this by advocating for nonconformity and encouraging individuals to follow their unique paths. Thoreau's experiences at Walden Pond further illustrate self-reliance by emphasizing simplicity, personal reflection, and living authentically in harmony with nature.
• Discuss the significance of self-reliance in shaping the protagonists of the Great American Novel.
  • Self-reliance plays a crucial role in shaping protagonists within the Great American Novel by defining their journeys toward personal freedom and identity. Characters often face external pressures to conform but choose to assert their independence, which leads to growth and transformation. This theme resonates through narratives that explore conflicts between individual aspirations and societal constraints, ultimately reflecting broader American values of self-determination and resilience.
• Evaluate how the theme of self-reliance reflects broader societal changes in America during the 19th century.
  • The theme of self-reliance reflects significant societal changes in 19th century America as it emerged alongside movements such as westward expansion and industrialization. As individuals sought new opportunities away from traditional constraints, self-reliance became emblematic of a nation striving for innovation, personal freedom, and the pursuit of happiness. This shift promoted a sense of individualism that challenged established norms, encouraging people to rely on themselves amidst rapid social transformations.

Related terms

Transcendentalism: A philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th century, advocating for the inherent goodness of people and nature, emphasizing individual intuition and self-reliance.

Individualism: The principle of being independent and self-reliant, valuing personal autonomy over collective conformity or societal expectations.

Authenticity: The quality of being genuine or true to oneself, often associated with self-reliance as it involves expressing one’s true thoughts and feelings without external influences.