the american scholar essay questions

The American Scholar

Ralph waldo emerson, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Emerson begins his speech by saying that while his audience’s gathering is a “friendly sign of the survival of the love of letters,” it is time for America’s “sluggard intellect” to assert itself and produce works that scholars all over the world can appreciate. The American Scholar , according to Emerson, will produce poetry and other works that will lead in an artistic revolution and a new age for American society. That same society, however, has become so divided and subdivided that the artistic revolution Emerson hopes for will have to be a uniting one, designed to remind individual men and women that they are fundamentally united by certain ideas. The scholar’s role, then, is to reveal these unifying truths.

There are three main influences over a scholar’s development and the first “in time and […] in importance” is that of nature. The scholar, as a young boy or girl, begins studying nature because they are surrounded by it, and their initial instinct is to classify what they see. According to Emerson, this classification will eventually lead to finding connections between objects by a “unifying instinct” inherent in the scholar. Ultimately, the scholar will find that all they see, including themselves, “proceed from one root.” In studying nature, the young scholar will find that they begin to know and understand themselves and, by extension, mankind in general.

The second influence over a scholar is “the mind of the Past” in the form of books. Emerson states that books were written because past scholars wanted to share their interpretation of the world and the society they moved in. However, because society is always changing, new books need to be written for every generation, and that is the job of the scholar. It is also the scholar’s job to learn how to think for themselves and create new books instead of simply writing on the great books they studied in college libraries. If they allow themselves to be over-influenced by books, then the scholar risks becoming a “satellite” instead of a “system,” and so they can never achieve true greatness. On the other hand, when read correctly, books can help unite readers by revealing to them some of the truths that bind all mankind together.

The third influence is action. Emerson criticizes the popular idea that scholars can’t actually do anything “practical” because they’re too busy thinking and writing. Instead, Emerson asserts that “living” and taking an active role in society’s work actually helps scholars produce better academic work. He believed that action could lead to thought, much like the “ebb and flow of the sea.” Not only do the experiences of working and action lead to new thoughts, but it also introduces the scholar to new vocabularies. Getting to understand the language of “the field and the work-yard” as well as that of the upper classes adds color to the scholar’s language and helps them convey their ideas in a language that all can relate to and understand.

As an important piece of a larger whole, the scholar has a certain set of duties in society. In order to live up to Emerson’s intellectual ideal of Man Thinking , the scholar must pursue both the unity of their society and the cultivation of their individuality. Unfortunately, Emerson acknowledges that these duties frequently come at the expense of being perceived as fashionable and they must “relinquish display and immediate fame.” Ironically, the scholar often finds themselves somewhat alienated from the same society they are observing and trying to benefit. However, the scholar is content with the knowledge that they are “exercising the highest functions of human nature.” Emerson warns his audience that, as scholars, they need to avoid getting caught up in the fashion and controversies of the moment to find the underlying truths common to all human beings if they want to achieve their full potential.

The American Scholar has the opportunity to not just understand, but define the world they live in. As Emerson states, “Not he is great who can alter matter, but he who can alter my state of mind.” The impending revolution that Emerson predicted in the beginning of the speech will be “wrought by the gradual domestication of the idea of Culture,” which the scholar is uniquely qualified to do by writing new books. Emerson finds hope for a positive revolution in the sudden popularity of books that focus on neglected classes: “literature of the poor, the feelings of the child, the philosophy of the street, the meaning of household life.” These, Emerson believe, give unique insight into the true state of society, including that of the past and the future due to the universality of some of the truths these books portray.

Finally, Emerson sees the “new importance given to the single person” as another sign of the readiness of American society for artistic revolution. Scholars take upon themselves the duty of uniting their society. In the case of the American Scholar, they will help unite the country by creating work that is distinctly American and that reflects the reality and truth of being part of the United States in the 19th century, rather than continuing to rely on European traditions that had no relevance in a country as young as the U.S. Not only would that scholar earn the nation’s respect, but they would pave the way for future American scholars that had long been discouraged by the negative attitudes towards “speculative” individuals. Ultimately, Emerson predicts that the works produced by American scholars will result in a truly united nation by showing each individual that they are connected by a “Divine Soul which also inspires all men.”

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The American Scholar” by Ralph Waldo Emerson: A Comprehensive Summary

• Ralph Waldo Emerson

“The American Scholar” is an essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson that was originally delivered as a speech to the Phi Beta Kappa Society at Harvard University in 1837. In this essay, Emerson urges American scholars to break free from European influences and develop their own unique intellectual traditions. He emphasizes the importance of self-reliance, individualism, and nonconformity in intellectual pursuits. This article provides a comprehensive summary of Emerson’s seminal essay, discussing its major themes and ideas.

The American Scholar: A Comprehensive Summary

“The American Scholar” by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a powerful essay that challenges the traditional views of education and intellectualism. In this essay, Emerson argues that the true scholar is one who is not only well-read and knowledgeable, but also creative, independent, and self-reliant. He believes that the scholar should be a leader in society, not just a follower of tradition.

Emerson also emphasizes the importance of nature in the intellectual development of the scholar. He believes that nature is a source of inspiration and creativity, and that the scholar should spend time in nature to cultivate their own ideas and thoughts.

Furthermore, Emerson criticizes the education system of his time, which he believes is too focused on memorization and rote learning. He argues that true education should be about developing the individual’s own unique perspective and ideas.

Overall, “The American Scholar” is a call to action for intellectuals to break free from tradition and embrace their own creativity and individuality. It is a powerful essay that continues to inspire and challenge readers today.

The Role of the American Scholar

In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson discusses the role of the American scholar in society. According to Emerson, the American scholar should be a “Man Thinking,” someone who is not just a mere “thinker,” but someone who actively engages with the world around them and uses their intellect to make a difference. The American scholar should be someone who is not afraid to challenge the status quo and question authority, someone who is willing to take risks and explore new ideas. Emerson believes that the American scholar has a unique role to play in society, as they are able to bring together the best of both worlds: the practical and the theoretical. By combining these two elements, the American scholar can help to create a more just and equitable society, one that is based on reason, compassion, and understanding. Ultimately, Emerson argues that the American scholar has a responsibility to use their knowledge and intellect to make a positive impact on the world, and to help create a better future for all.

The Importance of Self-Reliance

Self-reliance is a crucial aspect of individual growth and development. In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of self-reliance as a means of achieving intellectual and personal independence. According to Emerson, self-reliance is the key to unlocking one’s full potential and achieving success in life. He argues that individuals must learn to trust their own instincts and beliefs, rather than relying on the opinions and judgments of others. By doing so, they can develop a sense of self-confidence and self-worth that will enable them to pursue their goals and aspirations with greater determination and purpose. Ultimately, Emerson believes that self-reliance is essential for achieving true freedom and happiness in life.

The Need for Originality

In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of originality in intellectual pursuits. He argues that individuals should not simply regurgitate the ideas of others, but rather strive to create something new and unique. Emerson believes that true genius lies in the ability to think independently and come up with fresh ideas. He encourages scholars to break free from the constraints of tradition and convention, and to embrace their own individuality. By doing so, they can make a meaningful contribution to society and leave a lasting legacy. In short, Emerson’s message is clear: be original, be creative, and be yourself.

The Influence of Nature on the Scholar

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of nature in shaping the mind of a scholar. He argues that nature is the ultimate source of knowledge and inspiration, and that it is through our connection with the natural world that we can achieve true wisdom and understanding. According to Emerson, the scholar who is attuned to nature is able to see beyond the surface of things and grasp the deeper truths that lie beneath. This connection with nature is essential for the development of a truly enlightened and insightful mind, and it is something that every scholar should strive to cultivate.

The Relationship between Language and Thought

In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the relationship between language and thought. He argues that language is not simply a tool for expressing pre-existing thoughts, but rather that it shapes and influences our thinking. Emerson writes, “Words are also actions, and actions are a kind of words.” This means that the words we use not only reflect our thoughts, but they also have the power to create new thoughts and ideas.

Emerson also suggests that language can limit our thinking. He warns against relying too heavily on conventional language and encourages scholars to create new words and phrases to express their unique ideas. By doing so, they can break free from the constraints of traditional language and expand their thinking.

Overall, Emerson’s essay emphasizes the importance of language in shaping our thoughts and ideas. It reminds us that language is not a passive tool, but an active force that can both reflect and shape our understanding of the world.

The Role of Books and Learning

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of books and learning in shaping the intellectual and moral character of individuals. He argues that books are not merely sources of information, but also serve as guides for personal growth and development. According to Emerson, reading should be an active process of engagement with ideas, rather than a passive absorption of knowledge. He encourages readers to approach books with an open mind, to question and challenge the ideas presented, and to use them as a means of self-discovery and self-improvement. In this way, books become a vital tool for cultivating the intellectual and moral virtues that are essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

The Importance of Action and Experience

In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of action and experience in the pursuit of knowledge. He argues that true learning cannot be achieved through passive absorption of information, but rather through active engagement with the world. Emerson believes that the scholar must be a “man of action” who is willing to take risks and explore new ideas. He also stresses the importance of practical experience, arguing that it is through hands-on learning that we truly come to understand the world around us. Ultimately, Emerson’s message is clear: if we want to be true scholars, we must be willing to take action and engage with the world in meaningful ways.

The Scholar’s Connection to Society

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of the scholar’s connection to society. He argues that the scholar should not be isolated from the world but should actively engage with it. Emerson believes that the scholar has a responsibility to use their knowledge and intellect to benefit society. He writes, “The office of the scholar is to cheer, to raise, and to guide men by showing them facts amidst appearances.” This means that the scholar should use their knowledge to help people see beyond the surface level of things and understand the deeper truths of the world.

Emerson also believes that the scholar should be involved in politics and social issues. He writes, “The scholar is the delegated intellect of mankind.” This means that the scholar has a duty to use their intellect to help society make informed decisions. The scholar should not be afraid to speak out against injustice and should use their knowledge to help create a better world.

Overall, Emerson’s message is clear: the scholar cannot exist in a vacuum. They must be connected to society and use their knowledge to benefit others. The scholar has a responsibility to be a leader and a guide, helping society to see the truth and make informed decisions.

The Scholar’s Duty to Speak the Truth

As scholars, it is our duty to speak the truth. Ralph Waldo Emerson, in his essay “The American Scholar,” emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in intellectual pursuits. He argues that scholars should not be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and speak out against injustice. In fact, he believes that it is the scholar’s responsibility to do so. By speaking the truth, scholars can help to shape public opinion and promote positive change in society. However, Emerson also warns against the dangers of dogmatism and encourages scholars to remain open-minded and willing to consider alternative viewpoints. Ultimately, the scholar’s duty to speak the truth is a vital component of intellectual and moral leadership.

The Role of the Intellectual in Democracy

In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of the intellectual in a democratic society. He argues that the scholar has a responsibility to engage with the world and to use their knowledge and insights to benefit society. According to Emerson, the intellectual should not be content to simply observe and analyze the world; they must also take action to improve it.

Emerson believes that the intellectual has a unique role to play in democracy. In a society where everyone has the right to vote and participate in government, it is essential that there are individuals who can provide guidance and leadership. The intellectual, with their knowledge and expertise, can help to shape public opinion and influence policy decisions.

However, Emerson also recognizes that the intellectual must be careful not to become too detached from the rest of society. It is important for them to remain connected to the people and to understand their needs and concerns. The intellectual must be able to communicate their ideas in a way that is accessible and relevant to the general public.

Overall, Emerson sees the intellectual as a vital component of a healthy democracy. By using their knowledge and insights to benefit society, they can help to create a more just and equitable world.

The Scholar’s Relationship to the Past and Future

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of the scholar’s relationship to both the past and the future. He argues that the scholar must be well-versed in the knowledge of the past, but also must be able to apply that knowledge to the present and future. Emerson believes that the scholar must be able to see beyond the present moment and anticipate the needs of future generations. He writes, “The scholar of the first age received into him the world around; brooded thereon; gave it the new arrangement of his own mind, and uttered it again.” This idea of the scholar as a mediator between the past and future is a central theme in Emerson’s essay. He believes that the scholar has a responsibility to use their knowledge to shape the future and make it better than the past. This requires a deep understanding of history, but also a willingness to challenge the status quo and push for progress. Overall, Emerson’s essay emphasizes the importance of the scholar’s role in shaping the future and using their knowledge to make a positive impact on society.

The Concept of the Divinity School Address

The Divinity School Address is a concept that has been widely discussed and debated in the academic and religious circles. It is a speech that was delivered by Ralph Waldo Emerson at the Harvard Divinity School in 1838. The address was controversial at the time, as it challenged the traditional views of Christianity and the role of the church in society. Emerson argued that individuals should rely on their own intuition and experience to understand the divine, rather than relying on the teachings of the church. This concept of individualism and self-reliance was a central theme in Emerson’s philosophy and has had a significant impact on American culture and thought. The Divinity School Address remains a powerful and thought-provoking piece of literature that continues to inspire and challenge readers today.

The Scholar’s Relationship to Religion

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson discusses the scholar’s relationship to religion. He argues that the scholar should not be bound by the dogmas of any particular religion, but rather should seek truth and wisdom from all sources. Emerson believes that religion should be a personal and individual experience, rather than a set of beliefs imposed by an institution. He encourages the scholar to explore various religious traditions and to find their own path to spiritual enlightenment. Ultimately, Emerson sees the scholar’s relationship to religion as one of freedom and exploration, rather than conformity and restriction.

The Importance of Nonconformity

Nonconformity is an essential aspect of individuality and creativity. In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of nonconformity in the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. He argues that conformity stifles creativity and limits one’s potential for intellectual and spiritual development. Instead, Emerson encourages individuals to embrace their unique perspectives and ideas, to challenge conventional wisdom, and to think for themselves. By doing so, he believes that individuals can unlock their full potential and contribute to the advancement of society. In a world that often values conformity over individuality, Emerson’s message remains as relevant today as it was when he first wrote it.

The Scholar’s Responsibility to Challenge Tradition

As scholars, it is our responsibility to challenge tradition and question the status quo. Ralph Waldo Emerson, in his essay “The American Scholar,” emphasizes the importance of intellectual independence and the need for scholars to break away from the constraints of tradition. He argues that the scholar must not be content with simply accepting the ideas of the past, but must actively seek out new knowledge and ideas.

Emerson believes that tradition can be a hindrance to intellectual growth and progress. He argues that scholars must be willing to challenge the ideas of the past and be open to new perspectives and ways of thinking. This requires a willingness to question authority and to think critically about the world around us.

The scholar’s responsibility to challenge tradition is not just about intellectual curiosity, but also about social responsibility. By questioning tradition and challenging the status quo, scholars can help to bring about positive change in society. They can challenge oppressive systems and promote social justice.

In conclusion, the scholar’s responsibility to challenge tradition is an essential part of intellectual growth and social responsibility. As Emerson argues, scholars must be willing to break away from the constraints of tradition and be open to new ideas and perspectives. By doing so, they can help to bring about positive change in society and promote intellectual progress.

The Relationship between Art and the Scholar

Art and scholarship have always been intertwined, with each influencing the other in various ways. The American Scholar, a speech delivered by Ralph Waldo Emerson in 1837, explores the relationship between the two and how they can work together to create a more enlightened society. Emerson argues that the scholar should not only be well-versed in academic knowledge but also have a deep appreciation for art and creativity. He believes that art can inspire the scholar to think more deeply and creatively, while scholarship can provide the necessary knowledge and context for understanding and appreciating art. In this way, the scholar becomes a well-rounded individual who is able to contribute to society in a meaningful way. Emerson’s ideas about the relationship between art and scholarship continue to be relevant today, as we strive to create a more holistic approach to education and intellectual inquiry.

The Scholar’s Relationship to Politics and Government

In “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson discusses the relationship between scholars and politics/government. He argues that scholars should not be directly involved in politics, as their role is to provide objective and unbiased knowledge to society. However, he also believes that scholars have a duty to speak out against injustice and advocate for the greater good. This delicate balance between detachment and engagement is crucial for the scholar’s role in society. Emerson emphasizes the importance of intellectual independence and the need for scholars to resist the pressures of conformity and groupthink. Ultimately, the scholar’s relationship to politics and government should be one of critical engagement, where they use their knowledge and expertise to promote positive change while maintaining their intellectual integrity.

The Importance of Intuition and Imagination

Intuition and imagination are two of the most important tools that a person can possess. They allow us to see beyond the surface of things and to understand the deeper meaning behind them. In his essay “The American Scholar,” Ralph Waldo Emerson emphasizes the importance of these two qualities, arguing that they are essential for anyone who wishes to truly understand the world around them.

According to Emerson, intuition is the ability to understand something without the need for conscious reasoning. It is a kind of sixth sense that allows us to see things that are not immediately apparent. Imagination, on the other hand, is the ability to create new ideas and concepts. It is the engine that drives innovation and creativity.

Together, intuition and imagination allow us to see the world in a new light. They allow us to break free from the constraints of conventional thinking and to explore new possibilities. They are the keys to unlocking our full potential as human beings.

Unfortunately, many people today undervalue intuition and imagination. They see them as frivolous or impractical, and they focus instead on more tangible skills like logic and analysis. But Emerson argues that this is a mistake. Without intuition and imagination, we are limited in our ability to understand the world around us. We become trapped in a narrow, rigid way of thinking that prevents us from seeing the bigger picture.

In conclusion, intuition and imagination are essential qualities for anyone who wishes to truly understand the world around them. They allow us to see beyond the surface of things and to explore new possibilities. As Emerson reminds us, we should never underestimate the power of these two qualities. They are the keys to unlocking our full potential as human beings.

The American Scholar

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Transcendentalism and the Individual

Transcendentalism is a philosophy that Emerson helped to found, along with his friends Henry David Thoreau and Margaret Fuller. Its precepts are both a belief in the individual—and the power of individual thought to shape the world—and a sense of universality and the common good. Emerson often expresses this sense of universality as an “one soul” (Paragraph 35): a spirit and intelligence that animates all living creatures. He believes that it is an awareness of this common spirit that forms a true community, more than an adherence to social customs and institutions.

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May 17, 2024

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What I’ve Learned From My Students’ College Essays

The genre is often maligned for being formulaic and melodramatic, but it’s more important than you think.

By Nell Freudenberger

Most high school seniors approach the college essay with dread. Either their upbringing hasn’t supplied them with several hundred words of adversity, or worse, they’re afraid that packaging the genuine trauma they’ve experienced is the only way to secure their future. The college counselor at the Brooklyn high school where I’m a writing tutor advises against trauma porn. “Keep it brief , ” she says, “and show how you rose above it.”

I started volunteering in New York City schools in my 20s, before I had kids of my own. At the time, I liked hanging out with teenagers, whom I sometimes had more interesting conversations with than I did my peers. Often I worked with students who spoke English as a second language or who used slang in their writing, and at first I was hung up on grammar. Should I correct any deviation from “standard English” to appeal to some Wizard of Oz behind the curtains of a college admissions office? Or should I encourage students to write the way they speak, in pursuit of an authentic voice, that most elusive of literary qualities?

In fact, I was missing the point. One of many lessons the students have taught me is to let the story dictate the voice of the essay. A few years ago, I worked with a boy who claimed to have nothing to write about. His life had been ordinary, he said; nothing had happened to him. I asked if he wanted to try writing about a family member, his favorite school subject, a summer job? He glanced at his phone, his posture and expression suggesting that he’d rather be anywhere but in front of a computer with me. “Hobbies?” I suggested, without much hope. He gave me a shy glance. “I like to box,” he said.

I’ve had this experience with reluctant writers again and again — when a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously. Of course the primary goal of a college essay is to help its author get an education that leads to a career. Changes in testing policies and financial aid have made applying to college more confusing than ever, but essays have remained basically the same. I would argue that they’re much more than an onerous task or rote exercise, and that unlike standardized tests they are infinitely variable and sometimes beautiful. College essays also provide an opportunity to learn precision, clarity and the process of working toward the truth through multiple revisions.

When a topic clicks with a student, an essay can unfurl spontaneously.

Even if writing doesn’t end up being fundamental to their future professions, students learn to choose language carefully and to be suspicious of the first words that come to mind. Especially now, as college students shoulder so much of the country’s ethical responsibility for war with their protest movement, essay writing teaches prospective students an increasingly urgent lesson: that choosing their own words over ready-made phrases is the only reliable way to ensure they’re thinking for themselves.

Teenagers are ideal writers for several reasons. They’re usually free of preconceptions about writing, and they tend not to use self-consciously ‘‘literary’’ language. They’re allergic to hypocrisy and are generally unfiltered: They overshare, ask personal questions and call you out for microaggressions as well as less egregious (but still mortifying) verbal errors, such as referring to weed as ‘‘pot.’’ Most important, they have yet to put down their best stories in a finished form.

I can imagine an essay taking a risk and distinguishing itself formally — a poem or a one-act play — but most kids use a more straightforward model: a hook followed by a narrative built around “small moments” that lead to a concluding lesson or aspiration for the future. I never get tired of working with students on these essays because each one is different, and the short, rigid form sometimes makes an emotional story even more powerful. Before I read Javier Zamora’s wrenching “Solito,” I worked with a student who had been transported by a coyote into the U.S. and was reunited with his mother in the parking lot of a big-box store. I don’t remember whether this essay focused on specific skills or coping mechanisms that he gained from his ordeal. I remember only the bliss of the parent-and-child reunion in that uninspiring setting. If I were making a case to an admissions officer, I would suggest that simply being able to convey that experience demonstrates the kind of resilience that any college should admire.

The essays that have stayed with me over the years don’t follow a pattern. There are some narratives on very predictable topics — living up to the expectations of immigrant parents, or suffering from depression in 2020 — that are moving because of the attention with which the student describes the experience. One girl determined to become an engineer while watching her father build furniture from scraps after work; a boy, grieving for his mother during lockdown, began taking pictures of the sky.

If, as Lorrie Moore said, “a short story is a love affair; a novel is a marriage,” what is a college essay? Every once in a while I sit down next to a student and start reading, and I have to suppress my excitement, because there on the Google Doc in front of me is a real writer’s voice. One of the first students I ever worked with wrote about falling in love with another girl in dance class, the absolute magic of watching her move and the terror in the conflict between her feelings and the instruction of her religious middle school. She made me think that college essays are less like love than limerence: one-sided, obsessive, idiosyncratic but profound, the first draft of the most personal story their writers will ever tell.

Nell Freudenberger’s novel “The Limits” was published by Knopf last month. She volunteers through the PEN America Writers in the Schools program.