Visualizing Transcendentalism

One trait you probably noticed as we read through some representative pieces of American Romanticism and Transcendentalism is that of the inspirational line. Thoreau and Emerson especially have been immortalized in countless posters and framed motivational pictures, perhaps much to their chagrin. Compile a list of five quotations (with no more than two coming from any one source) that, in some sense, speak to you.

Then, choosing the quotation you feel would be the best fit, you should integrate the words of the quotation with some visual media. Feel free to utilize any of the following means: photograph, drawing, graphic design, pottery, or jewelry. The only media I’d not prefer is clip art or something liken unto a google image search. Make sure your design relates to the meaning of the quote and note just the words.

You should bring this visual exhibit (and your list of five quotations) to class with you on Monday, December 4th. You will present your exhibit to the class and include the following information in your presentation:

1. Which piece of literature your quote came from2. Why you chose this quote3. How your visual representation fits the actual meaning of the quote4. What quality of Transcendentalism your quote connects with and how

Your quotation should come from one of the following pieces from our oeuvre. Please include where the quotation is from on your piece somewhere.

“Walden” “Oh Me, Oh Life”

“Because I Could Not…”

“Hope is the Things…”

“Self-Reliance” “Nature”