TRANSCENDENTALISM

1. TRANSCENDENTALISM Goal: Identify the core values of Transcendentalism in Emerson and Thoreau’s works of literature

2. Directions: • For each value of Transcendentalism, brainstorm what the core value looks like in Fahrenheit 451, V for Vendetta, society, and school. • Take notes in your spiral notebook or on a clean sheet of paper.

3. Transcendentalist core value: Nonconformity • Rejecting the idea of the masses • Living according to one’s innermost beliefs, not society’s • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

4. Transcendentalist core value: Rebellion against authority • Openly working against the status quo, government, parents, etc. • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

5. Transcendentalist core value: Goodness of Humanity • People are naturally or inherently good • Society corrupts people • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

6. Transcendentalist core value: Individual Expression • Externally promoting one’s own style and values • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

7. Transcendentalist core value: Experimentation • Trying new activities that fall outside of society’s norm • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

8. Transcendentalist core value: Appreciation of Nature • Understanding the complexity and beauty of nature and its impact on the individual and world • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

9. Transcendentalist core value: Self-reliance • Being dependent on oneself as opposed to other individuals and groups • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

10. Transcendentalist core value: Equality of Man • Humans are born equal among sexes, races, and cultures • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

11. Transcendentalist core value: Carpe Diem • “Seize the Day” • Take advantage of opportunities that are presented to the individual • Brainstorm • Share ideas aloud with class

12. Goal: Apply your knowledge of transcendentalist values to Emerson and Thoreau’s works of literature