The American Renaissance and Ralph Waldo Emerson

This course introduces the concept of American Exceptionalism and explores the role of Emerson as a scholar. You will see how Emerson considered his early writings as part of the American Transcendentalist movement. It also explores Emerson's self-reliance and literary ethics. It further discusses how Emerson responded to the changing world and America’s place in it. You will also explore Emerson's role in the anti-slavery movement.

• Understand American Exceptionalism through Emerson’s ideas
• Analyze Emerson’s role in Transcendentalism
• Interpret literary ethics and self-reliance in his works
• Recognize Emerson’s anti-slavery advocacy

• Basic computer and internet skills
• Ability to read instructions in English