Introduction: Emerson Bicentenary Essays

Abstract

Examines the fifteen essays in this special issue from the perspective of three categories: those that are involved in constructing a new Emerson who generally displays more consistency and continuity than the model provided by Stephen Whicher in the early 1950s; those that engage in close textual analysis and reveal new facets of Emerson’s thought; and those that examine Emerson’s philosophical influences, both from earlier thinkers who influenced Emerson and later ones who were influenced by him. Also explores some aspects of Emerson as man, thinker, and literary artist to provide a clearer understanding of why he is such a difficult, multifaceted, and influential presence in American literature and culture.