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  • Essay / The Complexities of Transcendentalism: A Reflection on “Into The Wild”

    The philosophy of transcendentalism, which emerged in the 19th century, emphasizes the importance of individualism, intuition, and spiritual relationships with nature. In Jon Krakauer's book, "Into The Wild," the main protagonist, Chris McCandless, seems to embody the ideas of transcendentalism as he embarks on a quest for spiritual fulfillment through exploration of the natural world. However, as his journey progresses, Chris's experiences reveal a number of challenges and limitations that suggest a more nuanced relationship between transcendentalism and human nature. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay One of the key tenets of transcendentalism is the belief in the inherent goodness of human nature. This idea is reflected in Chris's decision to get rid of his possessions and embark on a journey of self-discovery. During his travels, he meets many kind and generous people who offer him assistance and support along his journey. Additionally, his relationship with nature is a source of comfort and inspiration, leading him to appreciate the beauty and simplicity of the natural world. Despite these positive aspects of Chris's journey, his experiences also reveal some of the limitations of transcendentalism. For example, his decision to cut all ties with family and friends suggests a disregard for social relationships and emotional connections. Additionally, his decision to venture into the wilderness alone reflects a potentially dangerous belief in self-reliance and an unwillingness to accept help from others. In this way, Chris's journey highlights some of the potential risks of adopting transcendentalism without considering the importance of social relationships and human community. Another important aspect of transcendentalism that is reflected in Chris's journey is the emphasis on intuition and personal experience. Chris often relies on his own instincts and intuition to guide him on his journeys, rather than preconceived ideas or societal norms. For example, he abandons his map and navigates using his own sense of direction, often taking unconventional routes that lead him into unfamiliar territories. In this way, Chris's journey reflects a deep confidence in his own abilities and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. However, this emphasis on intuition and individualism also has its limits. As Chris's journey progresses, he becomes increasingly isolated and detached from those around him, leading to a feeling of loneliness and alienation. Additionally, his disregard for conventional wisdom and societal norms ultimately leads to his demise, as he fails to adequately prepare for the harsh realities of the Alaskan wilderness. In this way, Chris's journey highlights the potential risks of prioritizing intuition and individualism over social responsibility and practical thinking. Finally, Chris's journey also reveals some of the tensions between transcendentalism and modern society. Throughout his travels, Chris expresses a deep sense of disillusionment with the materialism and consumerism of contemporary American culture. He rejects the trappings of modern society, such as money and possessions, in favor of a simpler, more natural way of life. In this way, Chris's journey reflects a broader critique of modern society and its values. However, this criticism is not without limits. Chris' rejection of..