Question

In at least 150 words, explain what Emerson does to portray John brown as an “Everyman” in his speech and the effect it has. Use details from the passage to support your answer.

Answer 1

"Living to ideal ends without any mixture of self-indulgence lowers the value of benevolent and thoughtful men we know" 
"Refusing luxuries, simply as unfit for his habit; quiet and gentle as a child in the house"
-These lines are an attempt by Emerson to portray Brown as an everyman, that slaves can associate to. Brown has been exposed to the perils that slaves are subjected to when he saw their harsh realities as a child. This positions Brown as a relatable fellow amidst of being convicted for the violence behind his anti-slavery movement.
Emerson is a supporter of non-violence and is a surprising supporter of Brown. There is an aspect of Brown that he tries to bring to the surface. Emerson wants Brown's good intentions and motives so as to remove the spotlight on the main point of the movement.