How does Emerson organize his argument in the lecture excerpt?

Emerson organizes his argument in the lecture excerpt by discussing the influence of great minds on their contemporaries, which highlights the impact that exceptional individuals have on the thoughts and actions of those around them. This approach allows him to illustrate how the ideas of these influential figures resonate within a larger societal context, emphasizing the importance of inspiration and intellectual legacy. By focusing on the interaction between great minds and their contemporaries, Emerson effectively builds a case for the significance of these figures in shaping culture and thought, thereby establishing a coherent and compelling argument.