Transcendentalism was a movement that completely changed America, from inspiring reform movements to challenging corruption. As a literary movement specifically, the Transcendentalists introduced a variety of concepts and characteristics that recognized the potential for human goodness. However, Ralph Waldo Emerson and the Transcendental Club developed their works in alignment with ideologies from Asian cultures and religions, namely those of Hinduism and Confucianism. It is important to note that these ‘religions’ are more often considered to be lifestyles by the communities they belong to, so religion and culture can be used interchangeably when referring to them. This lesson plan will introduce students to the holistic Transcendentalist movement – from the key concepts, figures, works, and impacts of American Transcendentalism to the Hindu and Confucian influences on Transcendentalism – to create a well-informed understanding of the Transcendentalist movement.