Location: [Reed College] [Department of English] [Laura Arnold][ Nation and Narration]Daily Readings
Transcendentalism and the Narrative of Independence
1. In order to continue our discussion of how one can "milk a cow" and be a free spirit at the same time, I would like you to read Emerson's "Self-Reliance" (1840; Also available in the course reader) for Wed. Where do you see Emerson borrowing from the British Romantics? How might Emerson justify these borrowings? As you read "Self-Reliance" you might also want to pay attention to Emerson's use of rhetoric. Do you find this to be "blood-warm" writing? If so, what rhetorical strategies does he use to enliven his prose? (Click here for more information on how to analyze rhetoric.)
2. In order to test Emerson's theories as they might relate to everyday life, please also read Byrde, "The Romantic Spirit: Women's Dress 1825-1850" (Nineteenth Century Fashion: 38-52) and look at least one issue of Godey's Lady's Book. Please pay particular attention to the article(s) or illustrations on fashion in the issue you choose. For example, if you look at the Feb. 1850 issue, make sure you look at "Fashions for February," but also feel free to browse. Class discussion will be livelier if you print out and bring to class one thing from Godey's (or Byrde) that tickles your fancy and have prepared a (brief) analysis of it ahead of time. To what extent are the women in Godey's encouraged to be "Self-Reliant"? To what extent do you think that Emerson might think that they should be? (Is fashion relevant to Emerson's argument?)
Laura.Arnold@Reed.edu