"Self-Reliance" and "Nature" by Ralph Waldo Emerson: These transcendentalist essays encourage readers to discover their most pure, organic souls, and to remain true to themselves and to nature throughout their lives. This course attempts to bring Emerson's values to life by helping participants get in touch with their truest selves and become closer to nature. Students will also learn about key societal values, religious happenings, and historical moments of the American Renaissance. We will explore this through literature, history, and nature.