major influence on walt whitman and henry david thoreau
When considering the major influences on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau, it is important to explore the literary and philosophical movements that shaped their writing and ideas. Both Whitman and Thoreau were influenced by transcendentalism, a 19th-century philosophical and literary movement that emphasized the importance of individual intuition and the connection between humanity and nature.
Transcendentalism:
Transcendentalism was a movement that emerged in the United States during the mid-19th century. It rejected the strict religious orthodoxy of the time and emphasized the belief in the innate goodness of human beings and the importance of intuition in finding truth. Transcendentalists believed in the unity of all things and saw nature as a source of divine inspiration.
Ralph Waldo Emerson:
One of the most significant influences on both Whitman and Thoreau was the writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. Emerson’s essay “Nature” and his collection of essays titled “Essays: First Series” were instrumental in shaping the ideas of transcendentalism. Whitman, in particular, was greatly influenced by Emerson’s ideas and even sent Emerson a copy of his revolutionary collection of poetry, “Leaves of Grass,” which Emerson highly praised.
Leaves of Grass:
Whitman’s seminal work, “Leaves of Grass,” was heavily influenced by transcendentalism. The collection of poems celebrated the beauty of the individual, embraced the connection between humanity and nature, and rejected the conventions of traditional poetry. Whitman’s free verse and his celebration of democracy and individual freedom made him a unique and influential voice in American literature.
Civil Disobedience:
Henry David Thoreau, known for his essay “Civil Disobedience,” was also deeply influenced by transcendentalism. Thoreau’s writing emphasized the importance of individual conscience and moral integrity, even if it meant opposing unjust laws. He believed in the value of simplicity, self-reliance, and a close connection to nature. Thoreau’s time spent living in solitude at Walden Pond greatly influenced his perspective on life and society.
Influence on Each Other:
While Whitman and Thoreau were both influenced by transcendentalism and the writings of Emerson, they also had a profound impact on each other. Thoreau’s emphasis on simplicity and his focus on the individual’s relationship with nature can be seen in Whitman’s poetry, especially in his celebration of the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Whitman, on the other hand, with his bold and unconventional writing style, paved the way for future generations of American poets and had a significant influence on the development of American literature.
In conclusion, the major influence on Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau can be attributed to transcendentalism, with Ralph Waldo Emerson serving as a prominent influence on both. Through their individual works and mutual influence, Whitman and Thoreau contributed to the shaping of American literature and philosophy.