Reference no: EM133303922
New England Renaissance, 1840 - 1855
1. Explain the context of the following quote from the reading: "The year 1836, when Emerson published his essay on Nature, may be taken as the focus of a period in American thought corresponding to 1776 in American politics." In other words, how was this an important moment for American literature?
2. Identify TWO occupations that rapidly expanded during this period of time.
3. Though the mid-19th century is remembered as a time of promise and optimism, there were signs of growing problems within the nation. Identify three institutional dilemmas facing the United States.
4. Identify FOUR literary "giants" of the New England Renaissance, as well as the work they produced (a specific piece or genre).
5. Though Transcendentalism is an abstract movement difficult to define, paraphrase the information provided in the text to define it.
6. How did authors Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville differ from Ralph W. Emerson & Henry D. Thoreau? Elaborate.
7. Identify a few "Fireside Poets." How did they differ from the Transcendentalists?
8. Explain how Emily Dickinson, one of the most distinguished American poets, has a unique story.