Transcendentalism In Chris Krakauers Into The Wild

Transcendentalism by definition means to live a rational life with nature and becoming one entity that rules over itself. That seems difficult though because living in this day an age without having to worry about anything or about anyone else is like asking for forever lasting gum. In the book Into The Wild, Chris McCandless tries to do just that and succeeds. While on his journey to Alaska, Chris becomes the embodiment of transcendentalism. He embraces multiply of the qualities of transcendentalism but there were three that were the most prominent throughout the story. He believed in living closer to nature, relied on self trust and self reliance, and also he insists on breaking from traditions like government or paying taxes like most†¦show more content†¦While in these different states he met people along the way that got close to him and wanted to help him on his journey. He believed in self reliance and self trust so whenever people offered him anything he wouldnâ€⠄¢t take them. (Krakauer 33). After an extended argument Burress also got McCandless to accept some long underwear and other warm clothing she thought he would need in Alaska. â€Å"He eventually took it to shut me up.† said Burres. â€Å"But the day after I found most of it in the van.† It is quite obvious that Chris did not want to help of others or rather even hated it. (Krakauer 33). As the novel states Chris â€Å"Acted really offended when Burres offered him supplies.† Chris hated when he was offered help most likely because he wanted to be able to prove something that he could do this odessey without anyone’s help. He left the people that he met with the impression that he didn’t want their help although he liked their company. As well as the fact that he was determined to accomplish his goals by all means necessary. Lastly Chris McCandless wanted to break from the normal life of obeying laws and paying taxes. He wanted to become his own en tity, one that had control over itself and that is it. He didn’t need laws or taxes where he was going. He was going to live off the land and never go back to the stressful life that most adults in America live. Chris also did not like the government at all. (Krakauer 06). â€Å"Hell, no. How I feed myself isShow MoreRelatedRalph Waldo Emersons Nature Analysis708 Words   |  3 Pagesin the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink the wild air† -Ralph Waldo Emerson. Emersons quote enlightens the idea of transcendentalism. Declaring to enjoy nature for what it is , to value the idea of having the freedom of it and to realize there is more to life than what you are living. In the essay, â€Å"Nature†, by Ralph Waldo Emerson he finds himself challenged by the honesty of nature, which compares to Chris McCandless adventure in the book, Into the Wild, by Jon Krakauer. First, one must enjoy thingsRead MoreChris Mccandless Was Different From Other People. His Ideas1484 Words   |  6 PagesChris McCandless was different from other people. 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