Week 1 Application - Emerson Scholar
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Dec 6, 2023
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English 2370: Readings in American Leadership
Dr. Ann Beebe
Name:
Jeanna Smith
Team A or Team B:
B
Week:
1
Reading Assignment:
Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The American Scholar”
Citation Format Used:
in-text MLA
Q1 – 5 – Traits
Emerson’s “The American Scholar”: The first characteristic of leadership that I chose from the
text by Emerson is
self-trust
. “They may all be compromised in self-trust” (Emerson 63).
Emerson states that it is becoming for a man to develop self confidence and to deter from
following popular opinion. It is the job of the scholar to observe the world around him and devise
his own theories. Whether those theories oppose or are the same as popular opinion, it is his duty
to trust in his own understanding and share those with the world. He must do so with confidence
regardless of how people are going to react to him. The second characteristic of leadership I
derived from the text is
self-sacrificing
. Emerson compares the work of the scholar to the work
of two astrologists, Flamsteed and Herschel. Unlike the astrologists who “catalogue the stars
with the praise of all men” (Emerson 63), the sacrifices of the scholar may not bring such
recognition. His observations may require a large amount of solitude for days and months for
little to no fame nor any financial return. The third characteristic from the text is the
ability to
think for oneself
. Emerson mentions how so many have only copied their work from other
authors and books. “The English poets have Shakspearized now for two hundred years”
(Emerson 60). He states that books are only to be used as a source of inspiration. The fourth
characteristic is that a leader must be
brave
. “Free should the scholar be, - free and brave”
(Emerson 64). The scholar should not be fearful to speak up and share his opinion whether it be
regarding politics or vexed questions. The fifth and last characteristic I derived from the text was
that a leader must be
active in his community
. Emerson mentions the stereotype of a scholar as
being a recluse. “There goes in the world a notion that the scholar should be a recluse, a
valetudinarian, - as unfit for any handiwork or public labor, as a penknife for an axe” (Emerson
61). Emerson states that it is important to take action. “Action is the scholar subordinate, but it is
essential” (Emerson 61). A leader should not sit idle and not speak up when there is injustice
occurring. It is his duty to speak up and share his opinions. Otherwise, what good is his scholarly
work if it is not benefitting anyone else?
Q2 – Apply to 5 Areas
Academic Life
- In academic life I feel like one should maintain self-trust and be confident in
themselves. Although the collegiate career may be rough at times, one should remain confident
in their abilities and not be tempted to give up or do mediocre work. “In self-trust, all the virtues
are comprehended” (Emerson 64).
Civic Life
- Regarding civic life, it is important to remain involved in the community. One must
speak out against social injustice! “I grasp the hands of those next to me, and take my place in
the ring to suffer and to work” (Emerson 61). We should always try to see the world around us
not only from our own perspective but also from the point of view of others.
Social Media Life
- With so many opinions and information circulating across social media, one
must always be able to think for themselves. Just because it was posted on social media does not
mean that it is fact. Take the time to read and study anything to confirm whether it is fact before
spreading misinformation to others. “The soul active sees absolute truth; and utters truth, or
creates” (Emerson 59).
Professional Life
- Self-sacrifice is often required within one’s professional life. So many people
perform jobs or duties that are so crucial to our society yet receive very little reward. Teachers do
not choose to become teachers for monetary reasons nor to receive recognition from others. They
choose to teach to help others and see their reward as their students learn new concepts and
improve their skills. “Not he is great who can alter matter, but he who can alter my state of
mind” (Emerson 65).
Personal Life
- Within one’s personal life, fear is often felt when struggles come our way. We
must remain brave and face those fears. These fears can arise for various reasons whether it be
financial hardships, illness, or relationship struggles. What good does it do to ignore our fears
thinking that they will just go away? “Manlike let him turn and face it” (Emerson 64). “He will
have made his hands meet on the other side, and can henceforth defy it, and pass on superior”
(Emerson 64-65). Practice self-sacrifice during those financial struggles so that one may
overcome it. Be brave and have a positive attitude if illness comes your way. It is said that a
person’s mindset has a powerful connection with their healing. Be active in your relationships,
Show up! Be brave enough to voice your boundaries and trust in your ability to succeed!
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