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This blog is based upon Thinking activity given by Vaidehi Hariyani Ma'am.
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Transcend - go above, beyond.
1) ) Transcendentalists talk about the Individual’s relation with Nature. What is Nature for you? Share your views.
Nature for Transcendentalists wasn't just a collection of rocks and trees, but a living, breathing entity brimming with spiritual significance, profound knowledge, and a powerful call to action. It was a teacher, a sanctuary, a mirror, and a responsibility – all woven into the very fabric of their existence.
Imagine nature as a giant, awesome book. For Transcendentalists, it wasn't just about pretty pictures (mountains, sunsets), it was about the deep meaning hidden within. for Transcendentalists, nature wasn't just "outside," it was a big part of who they were and what they believed in.
The Divine in Nature: Transcendentalists like Emerson and Thoreau believed that Nature was not just a collection of rocks and trees, but a manifestation of the divine, a living expression of the universal spirit. They saw the beauty, order, and power of nature as evidence of a higher reality, and sought to connect with this divine essence through direct experience and intuition.
A Refuge from Society: Transcendentalists often viewed society as corrupt and artificial, constraining the individual's true potential. Nature, on the other hand, was seen as a place of freedom and authenticity, where individuals could escape the pressures of society and reconnect with their true selves.
A Symbol of Individuality: The vastness and diversity of nature resonated with the Transcendentalist emphasis on individuality. They saw in nature a reflection of the unique potential within each individual, and believed that by communing with nature, individuals could discover their own unique voice and purpose.
A Source of Truth and Inspiration: Nature, for Transcendentalists, was not just beautiful, it was also a source of truth and inspiration. By immersing themselves in the natural world, they believed they could gain insights into the human condition, the meaning of life, and the interconnectedness of all things. Nature served as a teacher, offering lessons in simplicity, self-reliance, and harmony.
A Force for Change: While Transcendentalists found solace and inspiration in nature, they were not passive observers. They believed that individuals had a responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world, and to work towards a more harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.
Transcendentalists, nature was not merely scenery, but a multifaceted and essential element in their philosophical and spiritual framework.
2) Transcendentalism is an American Philosophy that influenced American Literature at length. Can you find any Indian/Regional literature or Philosophy that came up with such similar thoughts?
Transcendentalism is indeed an American philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the 1830s and 1840s. It is closely associated with a group of thinkers and writers in New England, including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Margaret Fuller, and others. Transcendentalism emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the idea that individuals can transcend, or go beyond, the everyday experiences and limitations of the material world through their intuition and spiritual connection with nature.
Bhakti poetry offers a fascinating case study in how Indian literature and Transcendentalism share themes of emotional connection to the divine.
Mirabai:
- Mirabai, in 16th-century , defied societal norms through her intense devotion to Krishna. Her poems express passionate love and longing for him, transcending earthly constraints and social hierarchies. This mirrors Transcendentalism's emphasis on individual experience and breaking free from societal limitations to connect with a higher power.
- Lines like "My heart is a temple where Krishna resides," or "The world is a cage, and I long to fly free to Krishna's abode," showcase her yearning for divine union, similar to Transcendentalist poets seeking oneness with the oversoul.
Kabir:
- Kabir, a 15th-century mystic poet, transcended religious boundaries and preached a message of universal love and unity. His poems emphasize direct experience of the divine within, rejecting rituals and dogma. This aligns with Transcendentalism's focus on intuition and individual spiritual exploration.
- Lines like "I see God in all beings, the high and the low," or "The truth is not found in temples or mosques, but in the heart of a true seeker," echo Transcendentalist ideas of seeing divinity everywhere and finding truth through personal awakening.
So, even though they come from different places and times, both Bhakti poetry and Transcendentalism are about looking beyond the everyday and feeling that powerful connection to something bigger. They remind us that spiritual experiences can be deeply personal and emotional.
The relationship between Transcendentalism and Indian thought is complex and multifaceted. While there are undeniable parallels, each tradition has its unique history, context, and development.
3.)Write in short about your understanding of the following essay "The Great Lawsuit" Margaret Fuller''
"The Great Lawsuit" is an essay written by Margaret Fuller, an American journalist, editor, and women's rights advocate in the 19th century. The essay, also known as "Woman in the Nineteenth Century," was published in 1845. In simple terms, the essay is a powerful call for women's rights and equality.
Margaret Fuller explores the status of women in society during her time, highlighting the limitations and restrictions they faced. She argues that women should have the same opportunities as men in education, work, and public life. Fuller challenges traditional gender roles and emphasizes the importance of women having a more active and equal role in society.
The title, "The Great Lawsuit," suggests a metaphorical legal battle for women's rights and a challenge to the societal norms that oppressed women. Fuller urges women to strive for intellectual and spiritual fulfillment, encouraging them to pursue knowledge and self-realization. Overall, the essay is a significant early feminist work that contributed to the ongoing conversation about gender equality in the 19th century.
Educational Disparities: Historically, girls lacked thoughtful education, emphasizing the need for a relevant curriculum.
Women in Education: Women often lead girls' education but lack innovation, and societal norms impact its effectiveness.
Societal Influence: Despite good education, societal norms often contradict female empowerment gained through education.
Self-Dependence: The rise of "old maids" is seen positively, contributing to society in unique ways.
Spiritual Dignity: Acceptance grows for women's spiritual contributions, citing figures like Joanna Southcote and Mother Ann Lee.
Magnetism and Women's Intuition: The potential of women's electrical and magnetic elements, including rapid and correct intuitions, is discussed.
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