... they viewed as the relation to their time, therefore, were trying to be non-conformists of their time. Transcendentalism is, in a way, a philosophy of its own. The "father" of the Transcendentalists, Ralph W. Emerson is one of America's foremost philosophers. One of his best works, "Self-Reliance" exemplifies his main ideologies. He promotes individuality and independence through most ... you shall have the suffrage of the world." Emerson was not alone in his fundamental beliefs and philosophies. Henry David Thoreau also attempted to offer a spiritual and cultural alternative to the mat...

• Word Count: 371
• Approx Pages: 1
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... rights of women and the problem of slavery. The economic influences on American romanticism include the rise of materialism within the American context (which contributed to the growth of reform movements in the United States), the increase in disposable time and income (leading to a growth in appreciation of writing and reading with the growth of a leisure class), and the expansion of print ... an American. Leaves of Grass was inspired largely by Emerson's writings, and in particular his essay "The Poet." The poem is innovative both in terms of style and content, forever altering the c...

• Word Count: 917
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate