Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803) was a transcendentalist philosopher and essayist known for his ideas on self-reliance and individualism. His works emphasized the connection between humanity, nature, and the divine, influencing American thought profoundly.
Henry David Thoreau (1817) was a philosopher, naturalist, and writer best known for his book "Walden," which reflects on simple living in natural surroundings. He was a staunch advocate of civil disobedience as a means of protest against unjust laws, inspiring later movements.
Walt Whitman (1819) was a poet known for his epic collection "Leaves of Grass," which celebrates democracy, sexuality, and the human spirit. His free verse and unconventional themes broke away from traditional poetic forms and left a lasting impact on American literature.
Emily Dickinson (1830) was a poet who explored themes of death, immortality, and the human condition in her concise and often enigmatic verses. Her poems often delve into profound emotions and existential questions, earning her recognition posthumously as a major American poet.
Robert Frost (1874) was a poet known for his depictions of rural life in New England and his mastery of traditional poetic forms. His poems often explore complex themes such as the nature of existence, the human experience, and the choices we make in life.