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The History of Literature
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Emerson's Philosophical Evolution and Abolitionism
This chapter examines Ralph Waldo Emerson's early life, tracing his journey from a prospective Unitarian minister to a public intellectual grappling with the contradictions surrounding slavery. It highlights Emerson’s philosophical evolution, particularly his struggles with traditional beliefs and the moral complexities of advocating for abolition against a backdrop of societal resistance. The chapter also captures his growing engagement with the anti-slavery movement, revealing the gradual nature of his activism influenced by personal beliefs and the turbulent political climate of his time.
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