American Renaissance

Definition

The American Renaissance was a period in the mid-19th century characterized by a flourishing of literature, art, and intellectual thought in the United States. This era is marked by the emergence of iconic writers and thinkers who emphasized individualism, nature, and the inherent goodness of people, significantly influencing American culture and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Renaissance occurred roughly between 1830 and 1860, a time when America was undergoing significant social, political, and economic changes.
2. Key figures during this period included Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Walt Whitman, who all contributed to a distinct American literary voice.
3. The movement was heavily influenced by Romanticism and European ideas but sought to establish a uniquely American perspective through its emphasis on nature and individual experience.
4. Themes of social reform, abolitionism, and women's rights were prevalent in the works produced during this time, reflecting the changing values of American society.
5. The American Renaissance set the stage for future literary movements by establishing a foundation for modern American literature that emphasized personal expression and a connection to the natural world.

Review Questions

• How did the themes of individualism and nature manifest in the works of key authors during the American Renaissance?
  • During the American Renaissance, authors like Emerson and Thoreau emphasized individualism by promoting self-reliance and personal intuition as guiding principles. They viewed nature as a source of inspiration and spiritual truth. For instance, Thoreau's 'Walden' reflects his belief in simple living close to nature as a way to achieve greater understanding of oneself and society.
• In what ways did Transcendentalism influence the broader cultural landscape of the American Renaissance?
  • Transcendentalism played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of the American Renaissance by promoting ideals such as intuition over reason and the belief that individuals could achieve direct communion with nature and God. This movement encouraged writers to explore themes related to self-discovery, spirituality, and social reform. It influenced not only literature but also various social movements, including abolitionism and women's rights.
• Evaluate how the American Renaissance reflected the social changes occurring in 19th-century America and its impact on contemporary literature.
  • The American Renaissance reflected significant social changes such as urbanization, industrialization, and growing awareness of social issues like slavery and women's rights. Authors responded to these changes by addressing complex themes related to identity, freedom, and morality. The impact on contemporary literature is profound; it laid the groundwork for modern literary movements by emphasizing personal expression, diversity of voice, and an exploration of complex social issues that continue to resonate today.

Related terms

Transcendentalism: A philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the 1830s and 1840s, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, the importance of self-reliance, and spiritual over material matters.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that originated in Europe in the late 18th century, focusing on emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature.

Literary Nationalism: A movement in which writers sought to establish a unique American literary identity, drawing from the nation's history, landscape, and cultural experiences.