Divinity Summary and Analysis

In Divinity: Chapter 11: Pray without Ceasing, it is stated that Emerson's eye disease was probably caused by tuberculosis. Emerson spends much of this chapter wrestling and critiquing Hume's ideas, as well as Plato's. William returned from Germany and he and Charles both ended their careers in divinity. Emerson suffers from several bouts of illness and becomes depressed. In June Emerson writes his first sermon, "Pray without Ceasing", and the summer is a turning point. The chapter ends with Emerson heading to South Carolina due to increased health concerns and a warmer climate.

In Divinity: Chapter 12: The Prince of Lipona, Emerson is greatly affected by his first trip outside of New England; he soon decides South Carolina is still too cold and heads for St. Augustine, Florida. Florida would have an even large impact on Emerson than South Carolina. The greatest event...