Introduction
“The American Scholar” is an essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-82) that was delivered as a speech to the Phi Beta Kappa Society at Harvard University in 1837. In the essay, Emerson argues that the scholar should seek inspiration and guidance from nature and that a deep understanding of the natural world is essential for intellectual and spiritual growth. Here are some specific points of discussion on the influence of nature in “The American Scholar”:
1. Nature as a source of inspiration:
Emerson argues that the natural world is a source of inspiration for the scholar and that the beauty and harmony of nature can stimulate creativity and imagination. He writes,
“Nature is the symbol of spirit…The world is emblematic. Parts of speech are metaphors, because the whole of nature is a metaphor of the human mind.”
More Notes: The American Scholar
2. Nature as a teacher:
Emerson believes that nature can teach the scholar valuable lessons about life and the universe. He writes,
“Nature is the instructor of the wise…In the tranquil landscape, and especially in the distant line of the horizon, man beholds somewhat as beautiful as his own nature.”
3. The importance of solitude in nature:
Emerson argues that the scholar should seek solitude in nature, away from the distractions and noise of society, in order to achieve a deeper understanding of the self and the world. He writes,
“In the woods, we return to reason and faith…Standing on the bare ground, – my head bathed by the blithe air and uplifted into infinite space, – all mean egotism vanishes.”
4. The unity of nature and the self:
Emerson believes that the natural world is interconnected with the human self and that a deep understanding of nature can lead to a greater understanding of the self. He writes, “The eye is the first circle; the horizon which it forms is the second; and throughout nature, this primary figure is repeated without end…Within man is the soul of the whole; the wise silence; the universal beauty, to which every part and particle is equally related.”
5. Nature as a healer of the Heart
Overall, Emerson sees nature as a powerful force that can inspire, teach, and transform the scholar. He believes that a deep understanding of the natural world is essential for intellectual and spiritual growth and that the scholar should seek solitude in nature in order to achieve this understanding.
Conclusion
Emerson views nature as an essential component of the intellectual and spiritual life of the scholar. He believes that by studying nature and connecting with the natural world, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe, and can contribute to the advancement of human knowledge and culture.
