* Self-Reliance and Intuition: Great art, for Emerson, wasn't just a technical achievement, but a manifestation of the artist's unique vision and intuition. It demonstrated the power of self-trust and the rejection of conformity. By engaging with art, the observer could be inspired to cultivate their own originality and trust in their inner voice.
* Transcendental Experience: Emerson saw art as a pathway to a transcendental experience—a glimpse beyond the material world and into the realm of spiritual truth. The beauty and power of a great work could evoke a feeling of connection to something larger than oneself, a communion with the divine. The lesson here is to seek and appreciate these moments of spiritual awakening.
* Understanding the Oversoul: The "Oversoul" is a central concept in Emerson's philosophy, representing the divine unity connecting all things. Great art, in its expression of beauty and truth, points towards this Oversoul. By appreciating art, one can begin to grasp this interconnectedness and their own place within the universal whole.
* Inspiration and Creativity: Exposure to great art would, for Emerson, ignite the creative spark within the individual. It's not just about passively observing; it's about being inspired to create, to express one's own unique vision of the world. The lesson is to be actively engaged, not just a passive recipient of art's impact.
In short, Emerson wouldn't simply want people to *understand* great works of art, but to *experience* them. The lesson is to be awakened to the power of intuition, the possibility of transcendental experience, the connectedness of all things, and the boundless potential for creative self-expression residing within each individual. Art is a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth, a reflection of the divine within both the artist and the beholder.