ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -The anti-transcendentalists reflected a more pessimistic attitude and focused on man’s uncertainty and limited potential in the universe. They viewed nature as vast and incomprehensible, a reflection of the struggle between good and evil.

Detailed explanation-2: -Transcendentalism has its origins in New England of the early 1800s and the birth of Unitarianism. It was born from a debate between “New Light” theologians, who believed that religion should focus on an emotional experience, and “Old Light” opponents, who valued reason in their religious approach.

Detailed explanation-3: -However, while the idea of Transcendentalism is great, there are many methods of execution in which it can not only be ineffectual, but also quite harmful, if taken too far. Especially harmful is an acute sense of nihilism, cultural degradation, and a disillusioned sense of perfection when it comes to life in general.

Detailed explanation-4: -As a group, the transcendentalists led the celebration of the American experiment as one of individualism and self-reliance. They took progressive stands on women’s rights, abolition, reform, and education. They criticized government, organized religion, laws, social institutions, and creeping industrialization.