Lecture Notes: The Formation of American Culture (1800-1848)

Summary

In this lecture, we explore the emergence of a distinct American culture during the period from 1800 to 1848, examining its manifestation across architecture, literature, art, and philosophy. This era marked a shift from European-influenced Enlightenment rationality to a more Romantic sentiment characterized by emotion and desire, leading to significant cultural developments and the foundation of unique American identities and expressions.

Architecture

• Transition from European Influence: Early American architecture was largely influenced by the British Georgian style which emphasized restraint and symmetry.
• Adoption of Greek and Roman Elements: As Americans embraced democracy, architecture shifted to Greek and Roman revival styles, epitomized by the majestic design of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington D.C., featuring arches and a towering dome.

Literature

• Influence of Sir Walter Scott: Early 1800s saw American fascination with British novels, specifically those of Sir Walter Scott.
• Rise of American Authors:
  • James Fenimore Cooper: Wrote "Last of the Mohicans," romanticizing the American west.
  • Washington Irving: Known for "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," which portrayed American settings in a fantastical manner.
  • Noah Webster: Published "American Dictionary of the English Language" in 1828, standardizing American English spelling and pronunciation.

Art

• Hudson River School:
  • Focused on dramatic portrayals of American landscapes.
  • Paintings often featured pristine nature but hinted at civilization's encroachment.
  • Emphasized emotion over accuracy, reflecting the Romantic spirit of the age.

Philosophy: Transcendentalism

• Rooted in Romanticism: Emphasized the transcendent beauty of nature and belief in human perfectibility.
• Key Figures:
  • Ralph Waldo Emerson: Advocated for individualism and self-reliance.
  • Henry David Thoreau: Lived isolated in a cabin for two years to seek life's truths, documented in "Walden."
• Utopian Communities:
  • Shakers: Lived communally in Kentucky, avoided procreation, and eventually declined.
  • Oneida Community: Practiced complete social and property equality, controversial communal marriages and parenting, financially sustained by silverware production.

Conclusion

During 1800-1848, Americans worked diligently to cultivate a culture that reflected their values and identity, distinct from European models. This period laid the groundwork for unique artistic, architectural, literary, and philosophical movements that shaped American culture in profound ways.