26 pages • 52-minute read
Divinity School Address
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Essay Topics
Ralph Waldo Emerson uses Biblical allusions while acknowledging that the Bible may not be the best teacher for ministers. How does Emerson use Biblical allusions to aid in his argument, and how do they subvert established understandings of the Bible in the Unitarian population?
Emerson’s writing style has always categorized him as more of a poet than a philosopher. How does his poetic language reflect his argument?
How does Emerson use metonymy?
Which elements of Emerson’s speech align with Unitarian thought?
There are many aspects of the “soul” that Emerson does not discuss (immortality, reincarnation), as he has redefined it for his purposes. How does Emerson’s understanding of the “soul” compare with other religions’ beliefs in the soul?
On page 12, Emerson uses a brief image of war and an anecdote from Napoleon Bonaparte. What is the effect of this anecdote, and why did he choose Napoleon as an example?
Emerson uses the word “laws” or “law” over 20 times in his speech to refer to several types of laws. Identify the different types of laws that Emerson discusses; how do they fit into his philosophy?
What is the significance of mythology in “Divinity School Address”?
How does Emerson use narrative structure to support his arguments?
Emerson’s speech was an immediate flashpoint for many Unitarian Ministers of the time. Do some research on their responses. How is their language similar to or different from Emerson’s?
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