The Individual as Described by Emerson and Melville Term Paper

The Individual as Described by Emerson and Melville - Term Paper Example An individual can be described as any kind of specified object or person. Individuality, on the other hand, is the quality or state of being an individual. In particular, individuality examines some of the factors that make a particular individual be different from another. various philosophers have made efforts in trying to explain more about the individual and how he functions in his particular environment and society. One of the best-known philosophers, whose views and perspectives about an individual have been used in many disciplines is Ralph Waldo Emerson and Melville. Ralph Waldo Emerson, who existed between 1803 and 1882, can be described as the leading writer as well as thinker among the transcendentalists of New England (Emerson 23). During the time of Emerson, New England transcendentalism can be said to have been a philosophical and literal movement that was very successful, flourishing in the Massachusetts region and the adjoining areas especially before the time of civil war. Emerson was the son of a very Unitarian minister, being born in Boston. Emerson is said to have lived in Concord, a place that he stayed for a major part of his life (Emerson 34). On the other hand, Herman Melville (1819-1891) was a famous American novelist as well as the writer of poets and various short stories that featured the state of life during the Renaissance period in America (Melville 54). Most of the wr itings by Melville became public between 1846 and 1857, a time which they were published. Most of his writings were inspired by his experiences in life, especially as the common sailor, who moved in the spirit of adventure. Melville was also actively involved in the exploration of philosophy and literature as well as engagement in many of the contradictions that characterized the American society.  Ã‚