Nathaniel Hawthorne and Ralph Waldo Emerson are two prominent figures in American literature who have made significant contributions to the literary landscape of the 19th century. Both writers emerged during a period of great change and transformation in American society, known as the American RenaissanceNathaniel Hawthorne and Ralph Waldo Emerson were neighbors for a period of time in Concord Massachusettes. Hawthorne spentabout three years living as a resident of the Old Manse, from 1842 to 1845, (Stamant.) The historical context in which Hawthorne and Emerson lived was characterized by intellectual and cultural ferment in the United States. The country was still relatively "young" and was trying to define its national identity and cultural heritage. The transcendentalist movement, which Emerson was a key figure, sought to break away from European literary traditions and develop a distinctly American literature that reflected the values and experiences of the New World. Hawthorne...