Among those who attended his 1864 funeral were Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bronson Alcott & Franklin Pierce

The Final Jeopardy question for Monday, September 23, 2024, came from the category “19th-Century Americans.” The clue read: “Among those who attended his 1864 funeral were Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bronson Alcott & Franklin Pierce.” The correct response to this clue is Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Nathaniel Hawthorne was a prominent figure in American literature during the 19th century, known for his novels and short stories exploring themes of morality, guilt, and human nature. He was a key part of the American Romantic movement and a close friend of transcendentalist figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Bronson Alcott, which explains their presence at his funeral. Franklin Pierce, who also attended, was a personal friend of Hawthorne and had even commissioned him to write a campaign biography during his run for the presidency.

The Life and Legacy of Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne was born in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1804, and his connection to Puritan New England deeply influenced his work. His most famous novels include The Scarlet Letter and The House of the Seven Gables, both of which delve into the complexities of sin, guilt, and redemption. Hawthorne’s writing is characterized by its dark romanticism, exploring the inherent conflicts of human existence through allegory and symbolism.

Despite his fame as a writer, Hawthorne maintained a relatively quiet personal life. He formed strong intellectual friendships with figures such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, whose transcendentalist views contrasted with Hawthorne’s more skeptical perspective. This mix of camaraderie and intellectual debate enriched Hawthorne’s work, as he wrestled with the idealism of the era.

Hawthorne’s Personal Ties to Franklin Pierce

One of the more unique aspects of Hawthorne’s life was his close friendship with Franklin Pierce, the 14th president of the United States. The two men became friends during their college years at Bowdoin College. Pierce, though later a controversial political figure, maintained a deep bond with Hawthorne. This relationship led to Hawthorne writing a campaign biography for Pierce in 1852, which played a role in Pierce’s successful election. Despite political criticism of Pierce, Hawthorne remained loyal to his friend, accompanying him during later travels in Europe and continuing their correspondence until his death.

When Hawthorne passed away in 1864, Pierce’s attendance at the funeral was a testament to the depth of their long-standing friendship. Pierce reportedly served as one of the pallbearers, highlighting the significance of their relationship.

The Significance of the 1864 Funeral Attendees

Ralph Waldo Emerson and Bronson Alcott, both prominent transcendentalists, represented the intellectual circle Hawthorne found himself part of in the mid-19th century. Emerson, known for his essays and lectures on individualism and transcendentalism, had a philosophical outlook that both intrigued and conflicted with Hawthorne’s darker view of humanity. Alcott, an educational reformer and philosopher, shared similar views with Emerson and was the father of famed writer Louisa May Alcott.

Their attendance at Hawthorne’s funeral speaks to his impact on the intellectual and literary community of the time. Though Hawthorne often critiqued the idealism of transcendentalism, his works were deeply respected by Emerson, Alcott, and their peers, solidifying his role as a major literary force in 19th-century America.

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Enduring Influence

Hawthorne’s influence on American literature is undeniable. His exploration of moral complexities and his willingness to delve into the darker sides of human nature paved the way for future generations of writers. His works remain widely studied and appreciated for their depth, allegorical richness, and unique perspective on the American experience.

The notable figures who attended his funeral, including Emerson, Alcott, and Pierce, reflect the broad impact he had across literary, philosophical, and political spheres. Today, Hawthorne is remembered not only for his contributions to literature but also for the relationships he fostered with some of the most significant figures of his time.

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Final Jeopardy Video – Monday, 23 September 2024

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