Encyclopedia of Transcendentalism [Hardcover]

Wesley T. Mott (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0313299242 | ISBN-13: 978-0313299247 | Publication Date: October 30, 1996 | Edition: First

Transcendentalism, a movement of theological innovation and literary experimentation arising within New England Unitarianism in the 1830s and 1840s, significantly influenced American religion, literature, education, and political culture. Still, because the "movement" was diverse and often unfocused, definitions and boundaries have been notoriously difficult to establish. As a manifestation of the spirit of the age, Transcendentalism meant confidence in human potential and hope in a future that would realize our best aspirations. This reference approaches the subject from a history-of-ideas perspective, embracing the inconsistencies and oddities as well as the powerful achievements of the Transcendentalists. With 145 entries by 70 expert contributors, this volume is the first comprehensive guide to the major philosophical concepts, themes, genres, periodicals, events, organizations and movements, and places associated with Transcendentalism in the United States. Significant classical, European, Asian, and native sources and influences are included, as are later manifestations and transformations. Aspects of the movement covered include religion, philosophy, literature, the arts, education, politics, science, and reform. The book features separate entry bibliographies, an extensive chronology, and a detailed index.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Mott's useful guide through the labyrinth of transcendentalism provides alphabetically arranged, essay-length articles by 70 scholars who use a history of ideas approach to range through an eclectic mix of philosophies (Neoplatonism), religious movements (Millerites), biograhies (Spinoza), places (Concord, MA), concepts (nature), descriptions of books and articles, and historical terms (Jacksonian democracy)....This encyclopedia would be useful for libraries with strong 19th century holdings. Readers of American philosophy, literature, and history, or tantalized by the blurred line separating transcendentaliam and Unitarianism, would find this collection rewarding.”–Choice

“...the Encyclopedia of Transcendentalism and the Dictionary of Transcendentalism are the most comprehensive resources of their kind in the broadly construed field of American Transcendentalism. These books should be welcomed...as a fact-filled overview of a complex period, suitable for all concerned with that period from students seeking a comprehensive introduction to fully fledged scholars hoping to recall what they have forgotten and possibly discover what they never knew....Indispensable for libraries, they are little less than that for anyone with a serious interest in American Transcendentalism whose knowledge falls short of encyclopedic. My own copies are already well thumbed.”–Emerson Society Papers

“Among the enourmously helpful resources for studying New England Transcendentalism are Mott's encyclopedia and dictionary. The Encyclopedia of Transcendentalism is a comprehensive guide explaining the cardinal philosophical concepts, antecendents, genres, institutions, movements, periodicals, events, and places that were central in the Transcendental movement.”–The Quest

About the Author

WESLEY T. MOTT is Professor of English at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: Greenwood Press; First edition (October 30, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0313299242
• ISBN-13: 978-0313299247
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,125,368 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)