The History of Transcendentalism: New England (eBook)

Octavius Brooks Frothingham (1822–1895) was an influential American clergyman and author, noted for his role in the transcendentalist movement and his progressive, unitarian beliefs. A leading intellect of the 19th century, Frothingham was born in Boston and graduated from Harvard Divinity School. He initially served in traditional ministry but evolved to become a prominent exponent of radical unitarianism and transcendentalism, ideas which significantly shaped American religious and philosophical thought. His scholarly contributions are encapsulated in his works, most notably 'The History of Transcendentalism: New England,' a seminal text that explores the origins and influences of the transcendentalist movement which thrived in New England in the early to mid-19th century. In this book, Frothingham illuminates the transcendentalists' quest for a more personal and direct experience of the divine and their rejection of conventional religious dogma. His writings reflect a blend of intellect and fervor, and he adeptly chronicles the interplay between European romanticism and American individualism that marked the era. Frothingham's literary style is distinguished by its clarity, erudition, and the ability to contextualize a movement that sought to transcend the limitations of contemporary society and foster a heightened spiritual awareness.