Emerson and the Conduct of Life: Pragmatism and Ethical Purpose in the Later Work

Emerson and the Conduct of Life: Pragmatism and Ethical Purpose in the Later Work
ISBN-10
052110131X
ISBN-13
9780521101318
Category
Literary Criticism
Pages
248
Language
English
Published
2009-02-12
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Author
David M. Robinson

Description

In Emerson and the Conduct of Life, David M. Robinson describes Ralph Waldo Emerson's evolution from mystic to pragmatist, stressing the importance of Emerson's undervalued later writing. Emerson's reputation has rested on the addresses and essays of the 1830s and 1840s, in which he propounded a version of transcendental idealism, and memorably portrayed moments of mystical insight. But Emerson's later writings suggest an increasing concern over the elusiveness of mysticism, and an increasing stress on ethical choice and practical power. These works reveal Emerson as an ethical philosopher who stressed the spiritual value of human relations, work and social action.

Other editions

Similar books