Pilgrimage and Epiphany: The Psychological and Political Dynamics of Margaret Fuller’s Mythmaking

Abstract

This essay opens up Margaret Fuller’s deep interest in, and wide acquaintance with, classical and other ancient mythologies, a sorely neglected subject. Fuller emerges as someone who tried to find comfort and solace in ancient myths, often identifying with female figures in them. Throughout, issues of what today we call feminism surface, not only in political and social contexts but also in that of the inner life of the psyche. Her use of ancient myths and creation of new, original myths sharply contrasts with Ralph Waldo Emerson, who did not understand her deep need to apply this aspect of Greco-Roman religion to a personal and professional situation.