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Within the realm of literature, the exploration of nature often serves as a canvas for profound philosophical reflections. In our academic journey, we encountered three essays, and I chose to delve into a comprehensive comparative analysis between the perspectives of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Joyce Carol Oates on nature. This exploration unveils the diverse attitudes these authors harbor towards the natural world, with Emerson advocating for a harmonious union and Oates expressing a pronounced aversion. Despite the stark contrast in their viewpoints, both writers employ a range of rhetorical strategies, including appeals to credibility, emotion, and logic, to fortify their distinct perspectives on nature.
In Emerson's transcendentalist masterpiece, "From Nature," he ventures into the metaphysical realm, asserting, "I become a transparent eyeball; I am nothing...I am part or particle of God." This profound declaration not only establishes Emerson's credibility but also attempts to persuade the reader that he is indivisible from the natural world, a mere fragment of the divine order.
By anchoring his argument in the spiritual, Emerson establishes a connection with the audience, appealing to their sense of awe and reverence for the divine.
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This appeal to credibility becomes a powerful rhetorical tool, positioning Emerson as an authoritative voice in the discourse on nature.
Oates, in her essay "Against Nature," utilizes credibility differently but with equal impact. At the outset, she vividly describes an intimate encounter with nature, lying on her back in the dirt, gazing at the sky. This personal anecdote serves as a foundation for her perspective, establishing a connection between her experiences and her disdain for nature.
Furthermore, Oates invokes "Edmund of King Lear" to bolster her argument, adding a literary dimension to her credibility. Both authors effectively employ credibility as a persuasive strategy, albeit through different means, to support their distinct claims on nature.
The emotional resonance within these essays transcends mere rhetoric; it delves into the profound human connection with nature. Oates, in a poignant and unsettling passage, recounts witnessing a raccoon tearing at its own belly. The graphic nature of this incident is a deliberate choice, invoking a visceral response from the reader and intensifying the negative emotions associated with nature. Additionally, Oates shares her personal struggle with "paroxysmal tachycardia," a potentially fatal condition, infusing her essay with vulnerability. The reader cannot help but empathize with her, raising the question of whether her health challenges influence her aversion to nature. Oates strategically uses emotion to evoke sympathy and deepen the exploration of her relationship with the natural world.
Emerson, in his exploration of nature, weaves emotion into the fabric of his argument by declaring, "In the woods, is perpetual youth." This poignant assertion taps into the universal experience of childhood, a time often associated with innocence and wonder. By connecting nature to the concept of perpetual youth, Emerson elicits emotions tied to nostalgia and transformation. His argument becomes a call to embrace the transformative power of nature, urging the reader to reconnect with the childlike awe that resides within. Both authors skillfully employ emotion to enhance the reader's engagement and connection with their perspectives on nature.
Logic, as a persuasive tool, serves to build a rational foundation for the authors' perspectives on nature. Oates, in detailing the dangers of her medical condition, employs logical reasoning to justify its fatality. She emphasizes the need to prevent panic and supports her claims with statistical data related to heartbeats and tachycardia. This logical appeal adds a layer of scientific authority to her argument, reinforcing the gravity of her aversion to nature. Furthermore, Oates references poems by writers such as "Flowers and Fruit" by Colette and "Taking the Side of Things" by Ponge, incorporating literary allusions to supplement her logical discourse.
Emerson, in his pursuit of understanding nature, utilizes logic when he convincingly asserts, "we have no questions...are unanswerable." This statement implies that nature holds the answers to all inquiries, positioning it as an omnipotent force deserving of respect. Emerson's logical appeal challenges the reader to contemplate the vastness of nature and its potential to provide profound insights. By framing nature as the ultimate source of wisdom, Emerson builds a compelling logical foundation for his perspective.
In conclusion, both Oates and Emerson navigate the complex terrain of nature with distinct perspectives, employing the appeals of credibility, emotion, and logic to fortify their positions. Emerson celebrates the beauty and individual significance found in nature, emphasizing its transformative power. In contrast, Oates dismisses nature, revealing the deep-seated aversion stemming from personal experiences and health challenges. Through these essays, a rich discourse emerges, offering readers a profound exploration of the diverse attitudes humanity holds towards the natural world.
The examination of Emerson and Oates serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of the human relationship with the environment. As we navigate the intricate interplay between credibility, emotion, and logic within their writings, we gain insights into the nuanced ways in which individuals construct their understanding of nature. Ultimately, these essays beckon readers to reflect on their own perceptions of the natural world and the intricate tapestry that binds humanity to the ever-evolving landscape.
Nature Perspectives: Emerson vs. Oates. (2016, Mar 24). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/oates-v-emerson-essay
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