Educational Media Reviews Online

This concise introduction to Emerson uses a good range of primary and secondary sources to outline his major biographical and historical influences and identify his key contributions to American idealism. Images of historical photographs and artwork, as well as live nature scenes, accompany voiceover narration of select passages from Emerson's journals. Host Jim Manley's on-site reportage from Concord provides historical background and transitions to individual interviews with Emerson scholars Robert D. Richardson, Jr., Sarah Wider, Richard G. Geldard, and Barbara Solowey. The presentation favors a narrative of historical biography, explaining Emerson's rise to prominence in three chapters: The Long Apprenticeship, The Infinitude of the Private Man, and Dangerously Famous. While the emphasis on covering Emerson's entire life does not permit much in-depth analysis of individual works, the essays "Nature" and "Self-Reliance" receive brief discussion as turning points in his thought and career. The overall tone is celebratory of Emerson's belief in the individual's potential to achieve personal, spiritual fulfillment.

Although transitions among topics come quickly at times, overall production values are good and the program manages to communicate a clear, even impassioned message within time constraints. This testimonial to Emerson's importance seems rightly intended to inspire the viewer to study his work in more depth. Educators may also make use of five shorter "Additional Scenes," which feature clips used in the main program as well as extra footage to address five focus topics: Emerson's Circle, Influence of Women, Role of Oratory, Influence of Eastern Thought, and the Development of Idealism. This title is recommended for junior high and high school students in need of an efficient and engaging introduction to the overall shape of Emerson's life and thought.