Title: Individualism and its discontents
First published: 1997
Description: This book explores the intertwined history of Emerson and individualism. Charles E. Mitchell begins by examining those who regarded Emersonian individualism with ambivalence or hostility, focusing on the comments of such diverse figures as Henry James, Sr., Oliver Wendell Holmes, Van Wyck Brooks, and H. L. Mencken. He then offers an alternative view as reflected in the work of William James, John Dewey, W. E. B. Du Bois, and William Carlos Williams.

Each of these figures embraced Emerson's claim for the sanctity of the individual and wove it into a social vision that sought to reconcile the paradox at the heart of American life: a simultaneous devotion to the community and the individual, tradition and innovation, order and freedom.
Subjects: History and criticism, American literature, Civilization, Influence, Political and social views, Individualism, History, Individualism in literature, Emerson, ralph waldo, 1803-1882, American literature, history and criticism, 20th century, American literature, history and criticism, 19th century, United states, civilization, 1865-1918, United states, civilization, 1918-1945
Places: United States
People: Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)
Time periods: 1865-1918, 20th century, 1918-1945, 19th century
LC classification: PS1642.S58 M58 1997