Beaulieu1

Ethan Beaulieu
Mr. King
Pre-ap English 2
29 April 2015

Self reliance SPES

Statement: The essay Self Reliance by Ralf Waldo Emerson clearly demonstrates and
elaborates some of the ideas that the character Charles Darnay from the novel The Tale
Of Two Cites.
Proof: The following quote from the essay Self Reliance relates clearly to the argument
Charles made against his uncle. I read the other day some verses written by an eminent
painter which were original and not conventional. The soul always hears an admonition
in such lines, let the subject be what it may. The sentiment they instil is of more value
than any thought they may contain. Charles tells his uncle that he is disowning his
family and moving to England to make his own way in life instead of living of the wealth
and influence of his family as his relatives do.
Explanation: Charles finds that it is more fulfilling to earn your keep and do everything
your own way instead of taking the path more traveled. Charles comes from one of the
richest families in France and has giving it all up to live a modest life as a translator but
still feels that it is better than living in a mansion with servants to do everything for you.
Ralf Waldo Emerson also feels this way but expand upon the topic into a little more depth
as to why it feels so much more fulfilling.
Synthesis: The two seem have successfully made their way in the world without the help
of others meaning that their path was less traveled and more original as their arguments
showed us.