Content and Style of The American Scholar

Answer

Question: Give a brief account of the content and the style of the essay, The American Scholar.

“The American Scholar” is a famous essay written by Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-82) in 1837. It is considered one of the most important works of the transcendentalist movement in American literature. The essay is divided into several sections, each discussing different aspects of what Emerson believed to be the role and qualities of a true American scholar. Through its content and style, Emerson delivers a powerful message about intellectual independence, self-reliance, and the pursuit of truth.

Contents

Embrace the Virtue of Labour: Emerson praises the dignity and necessity of labour for every citizen, whether learned or unlearned. He emphasizes the importance of engaging in productive work and warns against sacrificing one’s opinions for the sake of societal approval. Emerson writes,

 “There is virtue yet in the hoe and the spade, for learned as well as for unlearned hands.”

The Scholar’s Duties: Emerson writes about the duties of the scholar. His duties include cheering, raising, and guiding others by revealing deeper truths amidst superficial appearances. He highlights the scholar’s role in observing unnoticeable aspects of human thought and behaviour. Emerson asserts, 

“He plies the slow, unhonored, and unpaid task of observation.”

Self-Trust and Individuality: Emerson’s philosophy’s central concept is self-trust and the celebration of individuality. He urges scholars to have confidence in themselves. He should resist conforming to popular opinions. Emerson writes, 

“In self-trust, all the virtues are comprehended… He and he only knows the world.”

The Importance of Books: Emerson acknowledges the value of books in the pursuit of knowledge. He also warns that scholars should not rely too heavily on books. He believes that personal experience and intuition are more important than book learning.

Critique of Society: Emerson criticizes the prevalent materialism in society. He laments the loss of intellectual and moral virtue. He warns against the dangers of complacency and urges individuals to resist societal pressures. The scholar can lead others toward a more enlightened and independent existence. Emerson writes, 

“He lives for us, and we live in him… The world is his, who can see through its pretension.”

Call to Action: Finally, Emerson calls upon American scholars to embrace their individuality. They should trust in their own abilities and contribute meaningfully to society. He encourages them to pursue their own path, regardless of societal expectations. He envisions a nation of self-reliant individuals who are inspired by the divine soul within themselves. Emerson declares, 

“We will walk on our own feet; we will work with our own hands; we will speak our own minds.”

Style

Use of Metaphorical Language: The style of “The American Scholar” is characteristic of Emerson’s writing, which is known for its eloquence and use of metaphorical language. The essay is written in a formal style, but it is also personal and engaging. Emerson addresses the reader directly, urging them to become scholars in their own right. They should take an active role in shaping American culture.

Rhetorical Devices: Emerson employs rhetorical devices such as parallelism, repetition, and antithesis to enhance the convincing impact of his arguments. His use of parallelism, for example, creates a rhythmic flow in his prose. It supports key points, as seen in his appeal for the scholar to be “free should the scholar be, free and brave.”

“For this self-trust, the reason is deeper than can be fathomed, ⎯ darker than can be enlightened.”

Complex Syntax: Emerson’s writing is also characterized by its elevated tone and complex syntax. This makes it challenging for modern readers. However, the essay remains an important and influential work in American literature and philosophy.

In conclusion, “The American Scholar” is a thought-provoking essay that challenges readers to think critically about the nature of knowledge, individuality, and societal expectations. Through its content and style, Emerson delivers a powerful message about the importance of intellectual independence, the pursuit of truth, and the celebration of individuality. His words continue to resonate with readers today. His essay inspires them to embrace their own inner scholar and pursue a life of meaning and purpose.